In a striking intervention, Immigration Minister Mike Tomlinson has ordered the immediate removal of job advertisements for a 'balloon craft workshop' displayed at Brook House immigration removal centre. The minister condemned the promotions as "wholly inappropriate" for individuals held in detention.
The ads, which were prominently displayed within the centre near Gatwick Airport, invited detainees to participate in workshops to create balloon-based crafts. This sparked immediate outrage from charities and advocacy groups, who argued it was deeply insensitive to promote such activities to people facing the trauma of potential deportation.
The controversial material was produced by the centre's operator, Serco, and formed part of its 'Innovation Hub' initiative. A spokesperson for the Home Office confirmed the minister's directive, stating: "The Home Secretary and Immigration Minister have made it clear that this is wholly inappropriate. Serco has been instructed to remove the adverts with immediate effect."
Charities working with detainees were swift to criticise the tone-deaf promotion. «It is hard to imagine something more crass and offensive,» one representative commented, highlighting the immense anxiety and uncertainty experienced by those held in immigration centres.
This incident has ignited a fresh debate about the treatment and activities offered to asylum seekers within the UK's detention estate. Critics argue that the focus should be on providing meaningful legal support and safeguarding mental health, rather than activities perceived as trivialising their precarious situation.
Serco has since confirmed it has complied with the minister's order and removed the advertisements.
