The prison population in England and Wales is increasing and so is the requirement for health care and health promotion for prisoners. This article explores the state of prison healthcare provision and provides an understanding of the complexities involved, such as prisoners’ backgrounds and their lack of previous contact with health services. It outlines strategies to help nurses deliver positive messages to enable individuals to achieve healthier lifestyles in prisons, while acknowledging the difficulties of health promotion among prison populations. A discussion about how nurses can adopt and develop strategies to change behaviours and lifestyles in collaboration with prisoners is included.