Male detainees at the Dungavel immigration removal centre in Lanarkshire, Scotland, have been observed looking into the bedrooms of female detainees, according to a report by the Chief Inspector of Prisons. Charlie Taylor's report indicated that 43 percent of women at the facility feel unsafe in the common areas due to the free movement of male detainees, who were not required to have staff escorts.
Inspectors witnessed instances of male detainees looking through women's bedroom windows and heard them questioning why they could not interact with female detainees. The report also noted that the center housed a man assessed to be a risk to women and another facing charges for sexual offenses. In response to these conditions, some women reported avoiding leaving their unit unless absolutely necessary, even when escorted, with one stating, "We cannot go outside because of the males and our time to do things is quick because of them."
Concerns regarding the mixing of men with histories of sexual violence and female detainees were first raised in 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions. The report also criticized the practice of moving women across the country late at night, irrespective of their health conditions, including pregnancy or risk of self-harm. One woman described such transfers as "psychological torture."
Furthermore, the inspection found "concerning practices" related to the use of handcuffs, including their application on a pregnant woman. Taylor stated in his report that policies for immigration detention, which primarily cater to men, often fall short in addressing the experiences of the smaller population of women held in these facilities. He expressed hope that the findings would assist the Home Office and its contractors in improving support for these vulnerable detainees.
As of December 2025, 119 women were held in immigration removal centres and short-term holding facilities across the UK.