NOTE:
This is a personal blog, any views or opinions represented in this blog belong solely CIFF Consulting. WE ARE NOT Psychologists or Therapy Professionals, all data and information on these blogs is for informational purposes ONLY. In the comments section we are hoping that people can outline their experiences and foster communication that will assist others going through similar events.
Private family visits within the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is a “privilege” to the inmates. PFV’s are to allow inmates and their families to spend time together (up-to 72 hours for families live in the same Province as the incarcerated person or up to five (5) days if the visiting family member lives in a different province or from out of country).
Where does the PFVs take place at the facility?
All Federal Penitentiaries’ in Canada have separate housing structures inside the perimeter of the institution. These structures are self contained single or two-bedroom units with a kitchen, living area, bathroom and bed. These amenities allows inmates to spend time with their visitors in private area separate and away from the inmate population of the institution. PFVs can take place as often as every two(2) months unless otherwise specified in the specific institution’s standing order.
“Who can participate in a PFV?”
When a loved one wants to participate in a PFV, he/she must first be approved on the inmate’s visiting list. The approval process to get on an inmate visiting list can take up to 45 days from the date the application is submitted to the institution. (All of the information on the visiting application form must be completed and 2 passport sized photos must be included with the application along with a consent for CPIC authorization.)
Once the visit is approved, the inmate and visitor must complete three (3) regular visits (if the visitor lives in the same Province where the inmate is incarcerated) or allow 3 months to pass without any incident before the visitor will be eligible to participate in a PFV.
For PFV’s, “the inmate must submit the application to the institution.” Additionally, the inmate must be able to prove a previous/historic relationship between the inmate and the visitor they want to have the PFV with.
Which Visitors’ are eligible to participate in PFV’s.
Immediate family.
Individual with whom the inmate has a close personal relationship.
Common-law and Proof of a common-law relationship is the responsibility of the inmate and/or the visitor.
A minor child must be escorted by an accompanying adult.
Visitation Procedure.
Upon receipt of the inmate’s application for the Use of the Private Family Visit Unit, CSC will ensure that the inmate and the visitor are on open visits and the visitor’s records are up-to-date.
In some instances, CSC will request additional information from the inmate: for example, Statement of Voluntary Participation and Consent for Private Family Visits. If applicable, the Declaration of a Common-Law Union. If applicable; – Child Safety Waiver etc.
“Please Note”
If there are any concerns noted following the receipt of the Statement of Voluntary Participation and Consent for Private Family Visits form, an interview will be conducted with the visitor(s) and it will be documented in a Casework Record so the issue can be reviewed and addressed. Following consultation with the Correctional Manager and the Parole Officer, a Community Assessment will be completed for the visitor to determine the “Threat Risk Assessment” for Private Family Visits (with the visitor(s)). If all of the information received from this assessment is satisfactory to CSC, the PFV will be approved.
Once the PFV is approved, the visitor will be able to attend the Institution and spend time with their loved on in the trailer (see our blog about the Ion Scanner and preparing for visits here).
PFV times!
Attend Friday mornings 9:30AM and leave Monday morning 9:00AM
Attend Monday, 11:00AM and leave Thursday 11:00 AM
