Escapes and rising violence at Yarl's Wood raise security concerns
A new report says the rise in violent incidents has been linked to an increase in occupancy
Last updated 17th Oct 2024
Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre has seen a significant increase in violence throughout 2023, according to a recent report. The centre, which detains men and women under immigration legislation, is operated by Serco on behalf of the Home Office. The rise in violent incidents has been linked to an increase in occupancy and a higher proportion of time-served foreign national offenders (TSFNOs) within the male population.
In April, eight men escaped from the centre during a disorder, taking advantage of the situation to flee. They exited through a door in the sports hall and broke through three further fences before dispersing across the country. The escape triggered a nationwide manhunt, led by Bedfordshire Police and the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit. "This was a dangerous and brazen escape attempt by men who were awaiting deportation," said Detective Chief Inspector Matt Inwood, who oversaw the investigation.
The eight men travelled to different locations across the UK, some in groups and others individually. They were eventually brought back into custody, with the last of 13 men involved in the escape being sentenced this week. Their combined sentences total over 21 years, covering charges of escaping lawful custody, drugs offences, and fraud. Judge Alan Blake praised the police efforts, stating, “Thousands of hours have been spent by Bedfordshire officers and law enforcement across the country to apprehend those who escaped."
The April escape is part of broader concerns about security and the condition of Yarl's Wood. The report indicates that two major incidents in 2023 caused significant damage to units and other facilities. The Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) has raised questions over whether the centre’s infrastructure is fit for purpose. The ease with which damage was caused during these incidents has further highlighted these concerns.
Additionally, the IMB has reported that the average detention period for men at the centre increased to 53 days in 2023. The Board has called for improvements in how foreign national offenders are processed and for deportation procedures to begin while individuals are still in prison.
Mental health issues have also been a concern, with an increasing number of detainees arriving from the prison system with mental health needs. "The CSU is not a suitable environment for managing individuals in severe mental health crises," the IMB stated, adding that delays in sourcing mental health beds have placed further strain on staff.
The report acknowledged improvements in healthcare provision, including the introduction of new staff and health promotion campaigns. However, the IMB reiterated its recommendation that a time limit on immigration detention be introduced, citing long detention periods as a major factor contributing to unrest at the centre.
A Home Office spokesperson said:
“This government is focused on ensuring actions are taken to improve the conditions and safeguards in detention facilities.
“We have carefully reviewed the report’s findings and will be accepting the majority of its recommendations.”
A Serco spokesman said:
“Whilst 2023 was a challenging year for Yarl’s Wood Immigration Removal Centre, largely due to the increased number of Foreign National Offenders who arrived at the Centre from prison, we are proud that this Report highlights some of the excellent work that our team does and we are particularly pleased that the Board recognises the efforts of our officers to reduce violence.
"We will continue to work hard to ensure that Yarl’s Wood is a safe secure establishment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.”