The core of the handbook is a prison-by-prison guide that compiles official reports and questionnaires completed by prisoners and prison staff. Each prison is examined in detail, giving the reader a clear picture of the facilities available in each prison. Information is provided on visiting hours, workshops, chaplaincy, medical services, wages, education, and sports facilities. Each prison is evaluated by both prisoners and prison staff to offer an honest and balanced picture of prison life. Further sections provide advice on useful organizations, legal rights, foreign prisoners, health problems, financial matters, welfare, religion, discharge grants, release, female prisoners, and young offenders. The final sections of the handbook look at recent official prison reports and reproduce relevant prison legislation.