Seek Justice for Manston Detainees
Join the Fight for Fair Compensation
Were you or a loved one held at the Manston Asylum Centre? It’s time to take action and claim the compensation you deserve for the hardships endured. Stand with us in holding those responsible accountable.
Understanding Manston Asylum Claims
The Manston Asylum Claims initiative was established to provide a voice for those who suffered under the appalling conditions at the Manston Short-Term Holding Facility. Our mission is to ensure that every individual affected receives the compensation they are entitled to, acknowledging the severe impact of their experiences. By pursuing these claims, we aim to bring attention to the systemic failures and prevent future injustices. Join us in our commitment to justice and accountability.
Manston Asylum Centre Claim
In February 2022 the Government launched the Manston Short-Term Holding Facility based in Kent designed to house migrants and asylum seekers arriving to the United Kingdom by boat.
The Manston Facility was only meant to hold individuals for 24 hours whilst the Home Office arranged asylum support accommodation however this did not happen. In reality, the facility became heavily overcrowded by almost 4 times its capacity!
Reports began to emerge of detainees being mistreated and unlawfully detained. Amongst some of the complaints made by detainees held at Manston were :
- Lack or no medication provided
- Lack or no support for pregnant detainees
- Racial abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Lack or no food provide
- Incorrect personal information logged
- Spread of infectious diseases
- Lack of clean toilet facilities
- Lack or no mental health support
- Lack of adequate living accommodation
- Lack or no hot water
- Lack of no clean water
- Forcibly separating families
- Unaccompanied children being detained
- Lack or no beds
- Lack or no access to phones
- Theft of personal belongings
An independent inquiry has now been launched by the Government into the extremely poor conditions of Manston.
Begin Your Compensation Claim
Fill out the form below to initiate your claim for compensation. Your information will help us understand your experience and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
Common Questions About Compensation Claims
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the compensation claims process for those affected by the conditions at the Manston facility.
What was the issue at Manston Short-Term Holding Facility?
Between June and November 2022, Manston became severely overcrowded due to the Home Office’s failure to transfer asylum seekers to appropriate accommodation within the mandated 24-hour period. This led to unsanitary and dangerous conditions, including inadequate shelter, limited access to basic necessities, and outbreaks of diseases such as scabies and diphtheria.
Who is eligible to make a compensation claim?
Individuals detained at Manston between June and November 2022, especially from September onwards, may be eligible. Additionally, those detained outside this period might have a claim if they were under 18 but treated as adults, detained longer than permitted, or subjected to poor conditions.
What types of mistreatment occurred at Manston?
Reports indicate detainees faced overcrowding, inadequate bedding, limited access to hygiene facilities, insufficient medical care, forced family separations, detention of unaccompanied minors, restricted communication, and instances of abuse and theft by guards.
What compensation could I receive?
Compensation may cover unlawful detention, inhumane treatment, and any physical or psychological harm suffered. The amount depends on factors like detention duration, conditions experienced, and resulting injuries or illnesses.
Is there a deadline to submit a claim?
How do I start the claims process?
Contact our our dedicated legal teams experienced in Manston compensation claims who have the expertise in this area
Will making a claim affect my immigration status?
No. Pursuing a compensation claim is separate from your immigration or asylum proceedings and should not impact your status.
What evidence is needed for a claim?
Evidence may include detention records, medical reports, personal statements, and any documentation of the conditions experienced. Solicitors can assist in gathering necessary information.
Can I claim if I was detained for a short period?
Yes. Even brief unlawful detention or exposure to poor conditions can form the basis of a claim.
What if I was under 18 but treated as an adult?
If you were a minor but detained as an adult, this could constitute unlawful detention, and you may be entitled to compensation.
Can I claim if I’ve left the UK?
Yes. Former detainees residing outside the UK can still pursue compensation claims
What if I didn’t complain at the time of detention?
You can still make a claim even if no complaint was filed during or immediately after your detention.
How long does the claims process take?
The duration varies per case, depending on complexity and available evidence. Your solicitor can provide an estimated timeline.
Can I make a claim on behalf of a deceased relative?
Potentially. If a family member died due to conditions at Manston, you might be able to pursue a claim on their behalf.
What if I was separated from my family during detention?
Forced family separations at Manston may constitute a violation of rights, and you could be eligible for compensation.
How can I contact a solicitor for assistance?
Simply by submitting the compensation claim form our legal team will contact you in regards to your potential claim.
Case Studies
Case 1
Mrs S arrived at UK port on the 10th October 2022 and sought Asylum. She was moved to Manston Short Hold Facility where she was held until the 6th November 2022.
Mrs S was approximately 3 months pregnant when she was moved to Manston and was repeatedly denied access to medical attention and/or any consultations.
Moreover, Mrs S kept for an extended period of time without any justifiable reason and despite her medical condition.
Case 2
Mrs M arrived at UK port on the 22nd September 2022 and sought Asylum. She was then transported to Manston Detention Centre where she was interviewed and held until the 23rd October 2022.
Mrs M suffered from a severe mental illness but was routinely denied any medical assistance at Manston.
Mrs M was thereafter kept for an extended period of time without any justifiable reason which excerbated illness.
Case 3
Ms R and Master J were minor when they arrived in the UK on the 3rd September 2022.
They were transported to Manston Short Hold Facility along with their mother however upon arrival they were separated from their without any due reason.
They were held until the 12th October 2022 when they were eventually reunited with their mother.
Manston Facts
Manston, a former RAF site repurposed as a short-term holding facility for migrants, was originally designed to accommodate up to 1,600 people. However, it became severely overcrowded, at one point housing approximately 4,000 individuals—more than triple its intended capacity. This situation sparked significant concern and prompted both legal challenges, including a judicial review, and an independent inquiry.
Legal Capacity
Held Capacity
Take the First Step Towards Justice
If you or a loved one suffered due to the conditions at the Manston Facility, it’s time to take action. Complete our sign-up form to begin your compensation claim process. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Don’t wait—ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
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