Under powers given by immigration legislation, people are also routinely detained to ascertain their identity - many asylum seekers have to use false documents to enter the UK. Others are held while their claim for asylum is being processed, particularly if the Home Office believes that the case can be dealt with quickly. People are not detained at Campsfield as part of a criminal sentence, and there is no statutory time limit on their detention, which is 'administrative'.

The centre is operated by The GEO Group UK Ltd under guidelines issued by the Home Office.

Detainees come from a wide range of countries and often have no knowledge of English and little understanding of the asylum process or their rights. Stress, boredom and depression are common, particularly in view of the complex and often lengthy legal process.

Asylum Welcome can currently supply detainees with a phone card on a regular basis. If requested, we can also link people up with a volunteer visitor, or reputable legal representative. Visiting is co-ordinated by a network of experienced visitors, supported by volunteers and the Volunteer Coordinator in the office. There is also a regular visiting session held each Thursday (afternoon or evening) at the centre, which helps us respond more quickly to requests for visits. Asylum Welcome is a corporate member of the Association of Visitors to Immigration Detainees (AVID) which represents the views and interests of immigration detainees and visitor groups at a national level.