Independent review of use of force on mentally ill detainees
The Home Office must urgently commission an independent review (with the power to make recommendations) of use of force on detained people with mental ill health within immigration removal centres. The review must consider: how, when and whether to use force on detained people with mental ill health (including the application of pain-inducing techniques); the likely effect of the use of force on a detained person's mental health; the use of individual risk assessments for detained people, which could be conducted by personal officers and healthcare professionals; and the increased use and prioritisation of de-escalation techniques for those who have mental ill health. The review must take place in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including detained people's representative groups and mental ill health experts. The recommendations of the review must be incorporated in the new detention services order regarding the use of force (see Recommendation 15), in respect of which additional, regular (at least annual) training must then be provided.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted in Part
Response
Accepted in PartThe government stated it is working with HMPPS, NHS England and DHSC to develop new operational standards for use of force on detained people with mental ill health.
Progress Timeline
Angela Eagle, Written PQ 23170 (15 January 2025): 'On track for closure by summer 2025.'
Published Evidence
Published assessments of implementation progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Check the source type badge to see whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
42% of detainees assessed at higher risk (up from 25%). Mental health provision improving but still inadequate for demand.
View detailed findings
Based on Independent Review of Progress visit in August 2025, following up 13 concerns from August 2024 inspection. Brook House run by Serco held 192 detainees at time of visit.
Inquiry Chair Kate Eves described government response as "inadequate" and called for a "reset" with the new government. Warned abuse "becomes a question of when, not if" it happens again.
View detailed findings
In September 2024, Kate Eves told Channel 4 News she was "disappointed with what I see as an inadequate response by the former government to an important report." She noted the inquiry cost about £20 million over four years. Home Office lawyers had argued her "recommendations are not binding."