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Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre

Published:
Open document

Inspection report - Harmondsworth IRC (PDF, 734.5 KB)

Report on an independent review of progress at Harmondsworth Immigration Removal Centre by HM Inspector of Prisons (17-19 February 2025).

What we found

There had been substantial improvements since Harmondsworth was inspected in February 2024, when it received the worst-ever judgements for an immigration removal centre. Substantial investment had seen staff levels double, and a more engaged and upbeat team were receiving better management support and supervision. Problems with neglected, dirty and run-down communal areas had been addressed with a programme of rebuilding and refurbishment. There was still not enough systematic support for those being released, but there had been improvements to activities and welfare provision that were helping many to manage the stresses of detention.

Points to note: High-level collaboration between Harmondsworth and the Metropolitan Police Service was helping to tackle the supply of drugs in a more coordinated way. Staff were now more consistently challenging unacceptable behaviour from detainees, leading to a generally calmer and safer atmosphere.