Detainees are escorted in decent physical conditions and individual needs are addressed. Detainees are treated with humanity and respect.

9. The physical conditions for detainees during the journey are decent, and cater for those who have specific needs.

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

  • Detainees travel by road in vehicles that are safe, secure, clean and comfortable, with adequate storage for their property and with emergency supplies and hygiene packs suitable for the needs of women and children.
  • Detainees with special needs – including pregnant women, parents with babies, children, older or disabled detainees or those with a mental health problem – receive appropriate treatment during transit and are treated with dignity.
  • Detainees are held in vehicles or aircraft for the minimum possible period of time. Any delays are explained.
  • Seating arrangements in aircraft are comfortable and adequate for the length of journey. Detainees have sufficient freedom of movement, subject to risk assessment.
  • During their journeys, detainees have access to drinking water and refreshments at no charge. Food is healthy, varied, balanced and suitable for diverse needs. Hot food and drinks are provided on flights.
  • Detainees have private access to sanitation and to washing facilities that are clean and in working order. Women’s sanitary products are freely available. Nappies and nappy changing facilities are available for babies.

10. Detainees have adequate clothing and their possessions are stored securely.

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

  • Detainees being removed have clothing, suitable for the climate to which they are going, and can carry their belongings in a suitable bag.
  • Detainees’ property is handled with proper care, and any concerns about property or money are handled effectively and with consideration.
  • Reasonable and determined steps are taken to recover missing property.
  • Detainees can keep money and valuables with them if they wish, subject to risk assessment.
  • Detainees are provided with blankets and pillows during flights.

Human rights standards

Physical conditions and property
In relation to expectations 9 and 10 above: Human rights standards cover conditions of transport and return of property. See SMR 73; EPR 31, 32, 33.4. Standards also require suitable clothing to be provided to those who do not have their own. See EPR 20; SMR 19–20; UNHCR–DG 8[48(x)]; CPT 4.

Detainees must be treated with respect for their dignity and human rights at all times. See SMR 1; EPR 1.