Gatwick immigration centre confirms 25 coronavirus cases

As of Monday, December 14, three residents and 22 staff have tested positive, operators Serco confirmed.

The firm said all employees are being cared for in line with guidance from Public Health England (PHE).

Steve Hewer, Serco contract director at Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre added: “There are three residents and a small number of staff who have recently tested positive at the Immigration Removal Centre.

“Our priority is to look after everyone in the centre and we are working closely with PHE, our healthcare provider and the director of public health for West Sussex and we are grateful for all the support that we are receiving.

“As well as the support for residents that we are providing with the healthcare team, we are taking all necessary measures to limit the spread of the virus.

“Anyone who tests positive is being given further personal care and support as appropriate.”

All those in immigration removal centres are seen by a nurse and offered a Covid test, the Home Office confirmed. Face masks are mandatory for everyone working in centres to prevent transmission and all residents are provided with face masks and encouraged to wear them outside of their rooms.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: “We are aware of a small number of cases of coronavirus in Brook House.

“The welfare of those detained in our care is of the utmost importance and we are working closely with our providers and Public Health England to stop the spread of the virus.

“This includes enhanced cleaning regimens across immigration centres and making sure anyone who may have been exposed self-isolates.”