Gatwick immigration detention centre incidents rise sevenfold in 2024

Published: 04 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A UK watchdog has revealed a dramatic sevenfold rise in serious incidents at Gatwick immigration detention centre during 2024, raising significant concerns over detainee safety. According to a report by the independent monitoring board, there were 28 serious incidents recorded last year, compared to only four in 2023, marking a concerning escalation. These incidents included large-scale protests and detainees climbing onto anti-suicide netting, requiring the specialist National Tactical Response Group to intervene on twelve separate occasions.

The report described the detention centre as increasingly “volatile and less safe” than in previous years, emphasising that conditions have deteriorated despite ongoing reforms. Gatwick immigration detention centre is divided into two sites, Brook House and Tinsley House. Brook House, in particular, has a troubled history. It was previously investigated by BBC Panorama, which exposed serious assaults and misconduct by G4S staff, the company that formerly managed the centre. Following the revelations, a public inquiry produced 33 recommendations for fundamental reforms, intended to ensure the safety and humane treatment of detainees.

Currently managed by Serco, the centre has faced scrutiny over staff conduct. The report revealed that 22 Serco officers were investigated for alleged serious misconduct – 19 from Brook House and three from Tinsley House. These cases were referred to the Home Office’s professional standards unit, which investigates only the most serious complaints, such as allegations of assault or racism. According to Serco sources, 21 complaints were unsubstantiated, and one resulted in minor procedural recommendations. While the findings reflect some compliance challenges, they also highlight the efforts to maintain accountability within the management structure.

Despite these challenges, the report acknowledges areas of good practice at Gatwick immigration detention centre. Officers were noted for showing “empathy” towards vulnerable detainees, and one Serco social worker received special commendation for helping a man reconnect with his family during a period of extreme distress. These examples illustrate that, even amid ongoing safety concerns, staff members are capable of professional and compassionate conduct.

However, the report also paints a stark picture of detainee treatment, with several issues remaining unresolved. In 2024, before the general election, dozens of asylum seekers were detained in preparation for possible transfer to Rwanda. This controversial scheme was later cancelled following Labour’s election victory. Home Office staff described seventy-nine detainees arriving over a single weekend for the Rwanda programme as “shocked and bewildered,” highlighting the psychological impact of abrupt and uncertain detention procedures.

The report underscores the problem of prolonged detention, revealing cases where individuals were held for extraordinarily long periods. One man was detained for 708 days, while another spent over 400 days in custody. Prolonged detention has been linked to serious mental health problems, and the report notes that five detainees were sectioned due to significant mental health concerns. Despite these challenges, the majority of detainees were eventually released rather than removed, with 3,134 released and 2,165 removed. The monitoring board expressed disappointment over what it described as “the detrimental effects of detention apparently to no purpose,” emphasising the need for more humane and effective immigration procedures.

The report also addresses wider concerns about staff behaviour and institutional culture. It highlights instances of “intimidating, callous and disrespectful behaviour” towards detainees across all organisations operating at Gatwick immigration detention centre. While some staff members demonstrate professionalism and compassion, these negative patterns reflect broader systemic issues that require urgent attention. The board called for increased oversight, better staff training, and clearer accountability measures to ensure the safety and dignity of those detained.

In addition to the human cost, the report raises questions about operational management. The increased number of serious incidents has placed additional strain on resources, including security teams and social services. The National Tactical Response Group was called multiple times to address safety concerns, highlighting the centre’s volatile environment. The report also notes the challenges faced by staff in balancing security protocols with the duty of care owed to detainees, underlining the complex nature of immigration detention.

Public reaction to the report has been mixed, with some advocates highlighting the urgent need for reform and improved oversight. Human rights groups have called for independent monitoring of detention facilities, greater transparency regarding detainee treatment, and the introduction of more robust mental health support systems. These calls reflect ongoing public concern over the UK’s approach to immigration detention, particularly in light of historical abuses at Gatwick and other centres.

While the report identifies areas for improvement, it also demonstrates that progress is possible. The monitoring board praised instances of good practice, including officers showing empathy, social workers providing essential support, and the centre’s adherence to certain procedural standards. Such examples suggest that, with sustained oversight and targeted reforms, Gatwick immigration detention centre could provide safer and more humane conditions for detainees in the future.

The sevenfold increase in serious incidents serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by UK immigration authorities. It highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, improved staff training, and enhanced support for vulnerable detainees. As public scrutiny continues, Gatwick immigration detention centre will remain under the spotlight, with future reports expected to assess whether meaningful improvements have been implemented.

The independent monitoring board concluded that, while some progress has been made, the centre remains an environment where detainees are at risk of harm, stress, and unnecessary detention. The report underscores the importance of balancing security with human dignity and ensuring that the UK’s immigration system operates transparently, fairly, and effectively.