The Immigration Monitoring Board (IMB) has raised alarms about the high number of overnight transfers for women at the Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) in Durham. With over a quarter of transfers occurring at night, the IMB describes these journeys as ‘arduous’ and ‘inhumane’, particularly for those who are already vulnerable.
In 2025, approximately 1,284 women were moved to the centre, with many experiencing multiple overnight relocations. The IMB’s report highlights the distress caused by these transfers, noting that women often arrive tired and disoriented. Despite the Home Office’s claims of improved safeguards, the lack of a nearby vehicle base continues to necessitate these late-night moves.
The IMB has been assured since 2021 that a new vehicle base would be built to alleviate this issue, yet delays mean it won’t be operational until 2027. This raises concerns about the ongoing impact on the well-being of detainees, as many will endure unnecessary hardships during their transfers.
While the IMB acknowledges that transport crews treat women with respect, the overarching issue remains: the need for systemic changes to ensure the humane treatment of those in immigration detention. The current situation underscores the urgent need for reform in the immigration system to protect the rights and welfare of vulnerable individuals.
Source: BBC News
