Visiting at Haslar Immigration Removal Centre
As the statistics in our annual report (2011) show, in 2011 HVG Coordinators made almost 600 visits to 514 detainees. Our visitors also record detainees’ engagement with ongoing visits. The average level of engagement score was 8/10.
A survey amongst ex Haslar detainees found that talking to HVG staff and volunteers gave detainees immense relief from the realities of detention. Comments included:
“It was really good to have someone to speak to that is not inside the Haslar environment. The visits was one of the main things that kept me from going into deep depression. It kept my head above water.”
A survey amongst ex Haslar detainees found that talking to HVG staff and volunteers gave detainees immense relief from the realities of detention. Comments included:
“It was really good to have someone to speak to that is not inside the Haslar environment. The visits was one of the main things that kept me from going into deep depression. It kept my head above water.”
"I just want to be like a human being, not inside a cage. A cage even if it is made of gold, is still a cage."
Visitors experiences
Coleen Le The visits to the Haslar I.R.C. remain both a challenge and an inspiration.
The butterflies in the stomach when fearing 'the worst' could happen and the joy when it doesn't hasn't changed for me over the last year. The men I have visited have been very different individuals but have all shown a tremendous amount of resilience, courage and patience. I have learned so much from them. Living in such a busy world the opportunity to give undivided attention to someone for a full hour rarely happens - for me this makes visiting special. I never cease to wonder at the dignity and strength of character shown by the men. To be allowed insight into their lives can be harrowing but is always a privilege. I am so grateful to be considered worthy to share, in part, in the lives of the men I visit. |
Sarah WilliamsI have been visiting at Haslar IRC since July 2010 and I can honestly say it has
been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have met such a variety of people. I have received lots of positive feedback from detainees and officers about the difference visiting makes and how much the detainees look forward to visits. Sometimes I am the only contact they have with the outside world. I also find visiting works both ways and that I get just as much enjoyment from visiting as the detainees! I try to find and research common ground to talk about. Over the years I have learnt so much of other countries and cultures, including how to cook a yam and have had great discussions on who is going to win the X factor!! Some visits can be difficult, there are times when detainees are feeling down but I always try to go in with a positive attitude and hope in a small way I can improve their day and make a difference. |
