Activities

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

• Activities and facilities provide physical and mental stimulation. They include suitable outdoor activities.
• Activities are available every day, including in the evenings.
• Women are free to move throughout the centre. Any restrictions are justified by clear evidence of risk.
• Women are not prevented from taking part in activities or using facilities as a result of scheduling conflicts.
• There is a good range of recreational activities and facilities.
• Women have easy access to outside areas and fresh air, which is restricted only on the basis of assessed risks.

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

• Learning and skills provision promotes the mental and physical well-being of women.
• Women are able to develop skills that will be useful to them after release or removal.
• Women have access to a range of classes, training and creative pursuits. They include English and classes that promote relaxation and self-expression.
• The range, frequency, quantity and quality of courses are sufficient to meet differing needs, including those of women held for short and long periods, and women with protected characteristics.
• Women can complete both short and, where appropriate, more substantial, units of education and training.
• Tutors and managers have suitable expertise.
• Effective arrangements assure and improve the quality of learning and skills provision.

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

• All women are able to undertake paid work within the centre during the working day.
• Women are not deprived of the positive physical and mental health benefits of work unless there is clear evidence of risk.
• Compliance or non-compliance with immigration enforcement staff does not influence access to work.
• Recruitment is timely, transparent and appropriate.
• Pay rates are equitable.
• Women receive suitable training for their work roles.

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

• Women can visit the library every day, including at weekends.
• The library provides an opportunity for research, learning and social interaction in an informal, relaxed setting.
• Library resources enable women to find out about the situation in destination countries.
• Suitably skilled staff are on hand to help women make the best use of the library.
• The quantity and quality of library materials is sufficient to meet the needs of the detainee population. This includes books, newspapers, dictionaries, CDs and DVDs in languages that correspond with the major languages and national groups in the population.
• Women have sufficient time to use library materials if they are unable to take them away from the library.

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

• Women have the opportunity to use the fitness facilities every day and are able to shower safely after each session.
• The range of fitness activities is varied and meets the needs of the population.
•  Fitness staff have appropriate qualifications and expertise.
• Before first using the fitness facilities or undertaking strenuous exercise all women are assessed by health services staff and the information made readily available to fitness staff.
• Effective joint working between gym staff and health/substance misuse staff supports safe gym use for all women.
• Women who use the fitness facilities can access appropriate and clean clothing.
• Records of accidents and injuries are monitored regularly and appropriate action is taken.