Refugees: Sexual Offences

(asked on 14th November 2017) - View Source

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, with reference to the recommendation of page 5 of the Women for Refugee Women's report, We are still here, published in November 2017, if she will implement a proactive screening process to ensure that survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, and others who are vulnerable are identified before detention.


Answered by
Brandon Lewis Portrait
Brandon Lewis
This question was answered on 17th November 2017

Home Office immigration policy operates with a presumption against detention. If people are detained, it is for the minimum time possible, and their dignity and welfare is of the utmost importance.

The adults at risk in immigration detention policy, which came into force in September 2016, considers individual circumstances and strengthens the presumption against detention to ensure that vulnerable people are not detained inappropriately.

The Home Office has in place arrangements for identifying and assessing vulnerable individuals, including victims of sexual or gender-based violence. For example, the single gatekeeper function independently assesses the suitability of individuals for immigration detention, with a focus on the presumption of liberty, alternatives to detention and voluntary return.

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