Demonstrating independence

People in detention may assume visitors are part of the Home Office. It is very important to emphasise at the start of a visit that you are independent from the Home Office and from the centre management. It can help to carry with you a written statement about who you are in the first language of the person you are visiting, to help communicate this clearly.

Wearing informal clothing and colours that are clearly different from the colours of centre or Home Office staff can help to distinguish you from staff or immigration officials.

The way you interact with centre management can influence whether you are perceived as someone who can be trusted. Make sure you are courteous to staff, but avoid non-essential conversation.