Union and Charities Urge Immediate Action as Overcrowding and Staff Pressure Escalate

Migrants have begun to be relocated from the overcrowded Manston immigration processing centre, following mounting concerns over its capacity and conditions. Two coaches were seen departing the site on Tuesday afternoon, each seemingly packed with people. Another coach arrived shortly afterwards. However, it remains unclear where the displaced individuals are being taken, with potential destinations including hotels or alternative accommodation.

The facility, originally set up in January 2022 at a former Ministry of Defence fire training centre, was designed to accommodate no more than 1,600 people for short stays of up to 24 hours. Yet, by Monday, the number of people at the site had surged to 4,000, prompting serious concerns about overcrowding and living conditions. Conservative MP for North Thanet, Sir Roger Gale, acknowledged the relocation of “several hundred” people as part of ongoing efforts to manage the situation.

Robert Jenrick, the immigration minister, confirmed on Tuesday evening that the number of migrants at Manston had “fallen substantially” and assured that, unless there was a sudden increase in small boat arrivals, numbers would continue to decrease. He stressed the importance of returning the site to a sustainable operating model.

However, Lucy Moreton, from the Union for Borders, Immigration and Customs (ISU), highlighted that staffing pressures were yet to be alleviated. Despite requests for additional support, including better mental health services for staff, the Home Office had not responded, leaving workers concerned about their wellbeing and the legal implications of their instructions.

Charities, including the British Red Cross, have also expressed grave concern about the conditions at the site. Alex Fraser, the charity’s director for refugee services, stressed the urgent need for immediate action to ensure the safety and dignity of those at Manston. He emphasised that overcrowding put migrants at risk of disease and further trauma, adding that it reflected wider issues in the UK’s asylum system.

Fraser called for an overhaul of the asylum process, urging the Government to expedite decisions for nationalities with high approval rates and expand safe routes to prevent dangerous journeys. He added that the UK’s history of helping those fleeing war and persecution should ensure that everyone arriving on British shores is treated with compassion.

Meanwhile, the Home Office maintained that it was committed to the welfare of both migrants and staff, and was working to address the situation.