Last year, we came together for the National Day of Solidarity to End Immigration Detention on 18 October. Across the country, we stood in solidarity with people affected by immigration detention and celebrated our solidarity.

This year, we’re building on that energy; from 18–25 October 2026, join the National Week of Solidarity to End Immigration Detention.

For one week, we’re calling on communities across the country to organise actions, events and creative interventions, to demand an end to immigration detention and to stand in solidarity with people harmed by the harshness of the immigration system.

Why do we need a National Week of Solidarity?

Immigration enforcement has risen sharply under Labour, with raids, arrests and detentions jumping by more than 50%, and thousands more people taken into detention despite most being released on bail rather than removed. Every day, people are detained under immigration powers in the UK and taken away from their families and communities. People are held indefinitely, sometimes not knowing where they are being taken to, often not knowing when they will be released. This causes deep fear and lasting harm.  Immigration detention affects far more than just the person taken. Every time someone is detained, families, neighbours, friends, and support groups rally to provide care, rebuild stability, and keep fighting for justice. This work should never fall on communities but it does, because the system is designed to destabilise and exhaust us.

But our communities are also places of resistance, care and solidarity. Last year’s National Day of Solidarity was a clear example of this. As we gathered outside Derwentside Immigration Removal Centre in County Durham, we heard stories of power. People who had been detained within the walls of Derwentside stood boldly at the gates, demanding an end to detention for all. At the same time, across the UK, people organised their own local actions, from workshops and discussions to banner making, letter writing and information stalls.

In 2026, we are building on these connections and creating even more opportunities for people to take part.

What will the week look like?

Between 18 and 25 October, we are calling on groups and individuals across the UK to organise an action that works for their community. During the week, Right to Remain will be organising actions in Manchester, Leeds, Bradford and Birmingham. And we invite you to do the same. You could organise a community gathering with food and time for connection. You could gather allies and organise a demonstration. You could hold a workshop or teach-in about immigration detention and a range of immigration enforcement measures: reporting, immigration raids and deportation. You could organise a banner drop, exhibition, film screening, letter-writing session or creative action. Or create something entirely new – no idea is too small or too bold.

How can I get involved?

We want communities across the country to mark the week in their own way. Think about what would work where you live. Bring people together, start a conversation and plan something for any time between 18 and 25 October 2026. Now is the time for brainstorming!

Tell us what you’re planning – we want to hear your ideas! Let us know if you’re thinking about organising an action so that we can connect you to people in your area and help amplify your event. As plans develop, we’ll share information about the different events happening across the country, so you can find ways to get involved locally.

You don’t need to be part of an established organisation to take part. You might be a small campaign group, a community organisation, a group of friends, or just someone who wants to do something in solidarity with people affected by detention.

We have created a Google Form for you to let us know your plan. You don’t need to have everything worked out yet – but let us know what you are thinking.

Help spread the word by talking to your friends and communities about the National Week of Solidarity; the more people who know, the bigger and bolder the week will be! We have designed the below graphic for you to use and share. We have different designs available; get in touch with Esther – esther@righttoremain.org.uk – if you would like to see them!

We will share more information in September, so stay tuned. You can sign up to our Newsletter below.

In solidarity, as always,

Right to Remain Team