Arrival and reception

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• Detainees are told, in a language they understand, where they are going, why they are being transferred and what to expect when they arrive.
• Detainees are not subject to multiple movements around the detention estate and are not transferred between centres during the night. Specific reasons for any such moves are clearly recorded on movement documentation. All other night-time moves are kept to an absolute minimum.
• Detainees are swiftly transferred from police cells and spend no longer than one night in police custody.
• Detainees are given adequate comfort breaks and refreshments during transfer.
• Detainees should receive an adequate meal and drink at mealtimes.
• Detainees are not kept waiting on vehicles after arrival.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• Vehicles are safe, secure, clean and comfortable, and the needs of detainees with diverse needs, e.g. those with disabilities or those needing to take medication, are met.
• Escorting staff are aware of detainees’ individual needs and provide an effective briefing to receiving staff.
• Arrest teams allow detainees adequate time to prepare for their journey, to dress appropriately and to collect essential belongings, including medication and paperwork.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• Escort providers routinely contact the facility to which they are travelling before arrival to advise them of whom they are carrying.
• All detainees are held with correct documentation, including any assessment of their vulnerability, evidence of authority to detain (IS91) and the reasons for detention (IS91R).
• Detainees with specific needs, such as pregnant women, families with babies, older and disabled detainees and those with mental health problems, receive appropriate priority.
• Detainees receive a private interview to establish immediate risks and needs.
• Detainees are supported on their first night in detention by staff who check on their well-being during the night.¹⁹
• Induction provides detainees with key information, such as the existence of the Independent Monitoring Board and how to get in touch with a member of the Board.
• Induction is provided in a range of accessible formats with interpretation and translation where necessary.

¹⁹Some of these expectations relate to residential short-term holding facilities only, but may also apply if detainees are held for extended periods in facilities that are nominally non-residential. The applicability of expectations will be judged by inspectors according to the circumstances they find.

The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.

• Detainees are received promptly into a welcoming and supportive reception environment, where they are greeted courteously by staff.
• Translated information is provided and interpretation is used as necessary to ensure good communication with detainees.
• The gender ratio of staff is appropriate for receiving detainees and undertaking searching procedures. Searching is carried out sensitively.
• If a passport or any other documents are withheld by staff, detainees are provided with reasons, a receipt and a copy of the documentation.
• Soon after arrival, detainees are able to make free telephone calls in private and are offered drinks and food. Those without means to pay for telephone calls are able to make free calls as necessary throughout their detention.
• Detainees are able to retain all items of clothing unless an individual risk assessment indicates otherwise.
• Detainees held for longer periods are able to have a shower. If necessary, clean clothing is provided.
• Detainees held for more than 24 hours receive a health screening.
• Detainees are able to obtain or retain basic toiletries on arrival.