Migrants Express Anxiety Over Detention Centers Instead of Hotels
An official report reveals that small boat migrants expecting hotel accommodations under a UK-France returns deal experienced distress upon arrival at a detention facility.
Small boat migrants earmarked for deportation to France under a bilateral returns agreement have reported feelings of anxiety and distress upon being housed in detention centers, contrary to their expectations of hotel accommodation, according to a recent report.
An inspection of Tinsley House immigration removal center, located near Gatwick Airport, found that detainees were apprehensive about their circumstances. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor noted that many detainees arrived at the center surprised to be detained, having anticipated being placed in hotels. The report indicated a lack of clear information regarding what awaited them in France and insufficient communication between the center and French authorities.
"Most were upset about the threat of imminent removal and did not know what would happen following removal to France," the report stated, adding that several men became visibly distressed when discussing these concerns with inspectors. Widespread reports included anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption among detainees.
The inspection also highlighted shortcomings in the Home Office's procedures for identifying individuals deemed too vulnerable for detention. The report questioned the necessity of detaining a significant number of individuals, noting that over half of all detainees were eventually released, raising concerns about the cost to taxpayers.
Regarding conditions at Tinsley House, the report observed that many detainees spent mornings asleep, thus not participating in available activities. While the gym and sports hall saw more use in the afternoons and evenings, the center was deemed to be insufficiently encouraging participation, particularly for those experiencing mental health challenges who might have benefited from structured engagement.
Earlier this month, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that the cost per person for returns under the "one in, one out" agreement had reached £56,000, with over 1,400 migrants deported under the scheme to date. The agreement, scheduled to conclude next month, has facilitated a relatively small number of returns. Ms. Mahmood indicated that scaling up the number of weekly removals into the French system had proven operationally challenging.