Security and freedom of movement
Women feel secure. They have a relaxed regime with as much freedom of movement as is consistent with the need to maintain a safe and well-ordered community.
17. Women are able to live in an environment where security is proportionate and there is as much freedom of movement as is consistent with the need to maintain a safe and well-ordered community.
The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.
- The centre provides an open and relaxed environment, and strives to provide living conditions that are as near as possible to normal life in the community.
- Women’s freedom of movement is limited only by the requirements of safety and good order. They are not locked in rooms.
- There are no obvious weaknesses or anomalies in the physical and procedural security of the centre.
- Routine searching involves a rub/pat down search by a female detention custody officer (DCO) in the presence of at least one other female member of staff.
- There is no routine strip-searching of women. This is only carried out exceptionally and for sound security reasons. It is recorded and authorised by senior managers. It is conducted by a female member of staff in the presence of at least one other female staff member.
- There is no routine room searching. Searching of women’s bedrooms is on the basis of specific intelligence only. Women are informed that their bedrooms or personal property are being searched and of the reasons for the search. Their bedrooms and personal possessions are left in the same condition in which they were found. Searches are conducted by two female members of staff.
- Restraints are not used during escort, including to medical or any other appointments outside the centre, unless justified by individual risk assessment.
18. Women’s well-being is safeguarded by effective security intelligence systems and a robust approach to misconduct or illegal behaviour by staff.
The following indicators describe evidence that may show this expectation being met. They do not exclude other ways of achieving it.
- The elements of dynamic security are in place: relationships between staff and detainees are positive and women feel safe to report concerns; women are treated as individuals and receive personal attention from staff.
- Security systems are sufficient to identify current and emerging threats to the well-being of women and the safety of the centre.
- Effective intelligence and security measures guard against the trafficking of drugs or alcohol.
- Women know how to make confidential complaints about staff, and are confident that the system works effectively.
- Immediate protection from reprisals is provided to women and staff who report misconduct or ill-treatment by staff.
- Reports of misconduct and ill-treatment are investigated by a competent and appropriately senior and independent authority.