KAH: There are not as many as I thought there would be when I came into the Directorate as IRCs are required to follow the Detention Centre Rules and DSOs. However when a DSO is potentially open to interpretation, for example access to the internet, there can be some inconsistencies across the estate. Having identified these issues we are currently working with a variety of organisations and IRC providers to ensure consistency. Despite this I have found that in the main that all the IRC providers have been open to exchanging ideas on better ways of working and will share concerns and potential solutions. PSJ: Are there any differences between the private companies and prison service? KAH: I have not seen any real difference between private companies and the prison service, they all raise the same issues, for example the difficulty in removing those who don’t want to return home and they are all working to ensure the most efficient and effective service possible. PSJ: If you could change overnight one thing about how IRCs are run, what would it be? KAH: Although steps have been taken to improve activities in the IRCs I would like to see more activities that reflect the IRC’s population, which meet the high standards of the rehabilitation that is provided by prisons and which can provide detainees with a sound footing for their return home. Interview with Jo Henney PSJ: How did you come to work in this area? JH: My first venture into the custodial environment was at HMP Altcourse as a Prison Custody Officer, progressing to Senior Management. As my knowledge and experience grew I made the step into immigration removal centres at Yarls Wood as a Deputy Manager. I then moved to Campsfield House to take up my first role as Centre Manager and finally to my current role at Harmondsworth. I enjoy working with people, the dynamics of what motivates a person and working together to achieve a goal, this is where my passion lies. Issue 205 To encourage new initiatives from those around me and see the positive effect each change can make on a person’s life, gives me a sense of achievement that only this environment can provide. PSJ: What are the things you are most proud of in your work? JH: I would say I am most proud of the positive relationships that have been created between the staff and detainees. We aim to provide care and support to all those detained at Harmondsworth and creating open channels of communication is vital in achieving this. We facilitate workshops, with the aid of external agencies that provide advice and guidance on the best way to manage their case. In the days leading up to a detainee leaving us, we meet with them to ensure they are suitably prepared and have everything they need before they leave Harmondsworth. This preparation plays a key role in ensuring a successful removal. All of these elements play a vital role in assisting UK Border Agency. PSJ: What are the main needs of your staff? JH: Staffing issues……….more money and more holidays!! The staffing needs overlap with the needs of the detainees. They require the correct training, support and guidance and equipment in order to carry out what can be an extremely difficult role. They can then provide all of the practical and mental support that a detainee needs for their stay and for the eventual departure, either in the form of release or removal. PSJ: If you could change overnight one thing about the way that Harmondsworth is run, what would it be?’ JH: This is a difficult question to answer. Harmondsworth is the largest immigration centre in the country and holds the most challenging detainees, both in respect of behavioural and medical issues. As with all custodial environments, we have our day to day problems that arise, but through all this we have created a pleasant environment. So to answer your question, although there may be a few things that could do with being changed, I recognise the achievements we have made at Harmondsworth in conjunction with UK Border Agency in creating a safe and secure environment. Prison Service Journal 9