Summary of Key Points
|
|
- Buck Perkins
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 NRPF Network s Submission to Greater London Authority Consultation: The Way Forward: A Call for Action to End Violence Against Women July 2009 Table of Contents Summary of Key Points...1 No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Network...1 What is NRPF?...2 Key issues for women fleeing domestic violence who have NRPF...3 Case Study...4 Data and Impact on Public Services...4 The Way Forward Strategy...5 Interpersonal Violence Unit Proposals...6 Summary of Key Points This submission focuses on the experiences of women who suffer domestic violence and have no recourse to public funds. Women with no recourse to public funds (NRPF) who experience domestic violence are particularly vulnerable on account of their immigration status. The NRPF condition imposed on them during their stay in the UK and the restrictions to statutory support attached to this, presents a major obstacle in the GLA s ambition for London becoming a lead on violence against women internationally. The particularly vulnerable situation of women on spousal visas who fall victim to domestic violence needs to be acknowledged in the GLA s strategy as there are substantial restrictions on the statutory support that can be provided to this group. The GLA should work with local authorities and other key partners, such as the Metropolitan Police and the voluntary and community sector, to disseminate NRPF Network guidance on assessing and supporting adults and children and families with NRPF fleeing domestic violence. No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Network The NRPF Network is a network of local authorities focusing on the statutory response to people with care needs who have no recourse to public funds. The Network, established in 2006, aims to share information and good practice amongst local authorities, work with government departments to raise practical and policy issues and to develop a strategic response to NRPF. 1
2 There are almost 1300 members of the NRPF Network representing local authorities, the voluntary sector, central government, the police and the NHS. Many of our members work with people who have NRPF and are particularly vulnerable on account of having a community care need which makes them eligible for local authority support under Section 21 National Assistance Act 1948 or if they have children, under Section 17 Children Act. The NRPF Network runs an information and guidance enquiry line, provides training to local authorities, researches the scale and nature of NRPF, works with government departments on a number of policy concerns and provides information on developments in case law, policy and good practice. Evidence to support this submission has been drawn from the work of the NRPF Network in supporting local authorities and other agencies working with women and children who flee domestic violence and have NRPF; and from consultation with social workers and local authority case workers across London boroughs, in particular Islington Council s NRPF team. For more information, see: What is NRPF? No recourse to public funds applies to a person who is subject to immigration control; does not have the right to work; 1 and has no entitlement to welfare benefits, public housing or UKBA asylum support. The NRPF policy affects a wide range of people who are subject to immigration control, including refused asylum seekers, visa overstayers, post- 18 former unaccompanied asylum seeking children, people in the UK on spousal visas and some European Economic Area (EEA) nationals. 2 Case law has ruled that those who are destitute and in the country lawfully are entitled to local authority support where they are assessed as being in need of care and attention (National Assistance Act, 1948 (NAA)) or, if they are in the country unlawfully, where it would be a breach of their human rights to withhold or withdraw support (Human Rights Act, 1998). Individuals with mental health problems, physical health problems, older people and those suffering domestic violence may be entitled to local authority services under social services legislation (or where applicable, under the Mental Health Act). In addition, support may be provided by a local authority to a family lawfully in the UK under the Children Act 1989 (CA) where a child is found to be a child in need. Due to complex and overlapping community care, immigration and human rights legislation, many people are found to be ineligible for local authority assistance. Those who do not qualify may become destitute and/or street 1 People granted leave as spouses or civil partners and those on valid work visas are permitted to take up employment 2 The term migrant will be used henceforth to refer to these groups collectively. 2
3 homeless. Others will become hidden homeless, staying for example with family or friends, or in mosques or churches. The NRPF Network has produced practice guidance for local authorities on assessing and supporting adults and children and families with NRPF. These are available to download on the following webpage: dance.asp Key issues for women fleeing domestic violence who have NRPF Women fleeing domestic violence who have NRPF may be accommodated and supported by the local authority under social services legislation if they meet the threshold for support under Section 21 NAA if they are a single adult, or if they have a child, under Section 17 CA. 3 The threshold for support under Section 21 NAA is relatively high; few single women referred to social services departments meet this threshold and they may consequently become destitute. For those with children, the local authority is more likely to have a duty to provide a service to the whole family to prevent the child becoming a child in need due to destitution. Women in the asylum process have recourse to accommodation and subsistence support from the UK Border Agency. However, many women fleeing domestic violence have come into the UK on spousal visas to join a British husband or a husband with indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and are ineligible for support from the UK Border Agency. Although they have the right to work, many women on spousal visas lack English language skills; employment skills; and have childcare restrictions and this impacts upon their ability to exercise this right. In addition, they do not have recourse to any statutory support and may not have friends/family or community groups that can help them. Consequently, many women with NRPF fleeing domestic violence are referred to social services departments for support. Women fleeing domestic violence with NRPF often approach refuges, but are often refused accommodation because refuges depend on Housing Benefit to fund their services. In many cases, women are returning to abusive situations because they have nowhere else to go. Local authorities receive no statutory guidance from central government on their duties to support people with NRPF. This has resulted in considerable confusion around eligibility for support and legislation being inconsistently applied across local authorities. The NRPF Network receives approximately enquiries a month from organisations that are unclear about the eligibility of clients referred to their services for support. 3 It should be noted that local authorities may receive referrals from men on spousal visas fleeing domestic violence, although this is in the minority of cases. The GLA strategy may want to acknowledge such scenarios and incorporate strategies to consider their needs. 3
4 In 1999, the government introduced a concession for women fleeing domestic violence who are in the UK on spousal visas, enabling them to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). This was incorporated into the immigration rules in 2002, which gave applicants a right of appeal on a negative decision. The Domestic Violence Rule gives women in this situation an opportunity to stay in the UK and if successful in their application, they can access mainstream benefits and public housing. Whilst the application is pending however, they have NRPF. The Home Office are due to announce proposals to reimburse organisations for supporting women in this situation (more details below). The proposals however do not go far enough. Case Study Mrs A came to the UK from Pakistan in August 2007 on a spousal visa to join her husband. In October 2008 she fled her husband and her in-laws after being subjected to repeated violent assaults and being admitted to hospital with serious injuries. She sought shelter at a local refuge but was refused support because she had no recourse to public funds and the refuge could not claim housing benefit for the costs of supporting her. She slept on her friend s sofa and was advised by the local law centre to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) under the Domestic Violence Rule. Subsequently, her friend s husband threw her out of the house and she came to the attention of social services, who said that she wasn t entitled to support under the National Assistance Act 1948 because does not have a need for looking after. 4 She is currently sleeping at a night shelter that cannot support her in the long term and she is experiencing difficulty collecting the necessary evidence for her Domestic Violence Rule application. Data and Impact on Public Services The NRPF Network and Community Safety Partnerships Unit at Islington Council submitted a report to the Home Office and (former) Border and Immigration Agency (now UK Borders Agency) in February 2008 with recommendations for an effective response to the situations of individuals from abroad who become victims of domestic violence but have no recourse to public funds. Data were gathered from 11 refuge service providers across London. The report found that many local authorities are reporting increasing requests for support from women who are fleeing domestic violence and have NRPF. In the period 2006/7, 223 women in this category requested refuge space however only 19 (8.5%) of them were accepted for support. Of the women 4 See NRPF Network Practice Guidance Assessing and Supporting Adults with No Recourse to Public Funds for more details: s_nrpf_guidance.pdf 4
5 supported, 60% were funded by Social Services, 30% by the refuges themselves and 10% by other. Only three of those accepted for support did not have children. Although the Home Office reports that applications for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Domestic Violence Rule are processed within 28 days, the research found that women waited 7-12 months for the outcome of their application. During this time, they are not entitled to public housing provision or welfare benefits. Research conducted by the NRPF Network during 2008 found that 48 local authorities were supporting almost 4,000 people with NRPF at a minimum cost of 33.4 million a year. This is an increase of 8% on expenditure incurred in the financial year 2006/07. Forty eight local authorities from across the UK provided data for financial years 2006/7 and 2007/8, looking at numbers being supported and expenditure across children s and adult services. 5 This only covers accommodation and subsistence costs and does not take into account additional costs such as staffing and legal costs. The sum therefore represents a minimal possible cost. Numbers of adults being supported decreased slightly (by 2.2%) from 2006/7 to 2007/8, whilst numbers of families being supported increased more dramatically (by 10.7%). The data did not disaggregate the number of individuals or families being supported who were fleeing domestic violence, however anecdotally we are aware that this group constitutes one of the main categories of clients with NRPF supported by local authorities. Limited funds for support provided to women experiencing domestic violence are to be given to local authorities and other organisations providing accommodation and subsistence support to this group (more detail below). These funds will constitute a fraction of the total costs local authorities (and the voluntary and community sector) incur in supporting people with NRPF. The Way Forward Strategy Although the situation facing women fleeing domestic violence and have NRPF is acknowledged in this strategy, there is no link made between this group and the duties of local authorities and more specifically, social services departments. The role local authorities play in this regard should be acknowledged by the strategy, in addition to the relationship social services departments have with refuges and service providers in the voluntary sector. For example, research conducted by the NRPF Network and Islington Council 5 There are 204 local authorities with social services responsibilities in England, Scotland and Wales. 5
6 found that 60% of refuge places provided to women with NRPF in London are funded by social services departments. 6 Objective two of the strategy regarding improving access to support is limited by statutory bars on access to support for women with NRPF. The strategy states: The Mayor calls on key agencies, local authorities and government to respond to the needs of women experiencing violence through the provision of high quality core support services with equitable access across London. For women with NRPF, local authorities are restricted by immigration legislation from providing core services, including accommodation. Furthermore, because the government does not issue statutory guidance to local authorities on their duties to support people with NRPF, there is inconsistency in local authority practice in this area. 7 Objective three of the strategy considers the housing needs of women fleeing violence, but fails to acknowledge statutory bars on women with NRPF accessing public housing. Where local authorities cannot provide accommodation and subsistence for women in this situation due to statutory restrictions, this results in destitution, insecure housing arrangements with friends/family, or in some cases, women returning to abusive partners/in laws. The strategy should highlight the need for the Metropolitan Police, especially domestic violence coordinators based within police units, to be equipped with the knowledge of how and when social services can help victims of domestic violence with NRPF or when they cannot. The NRPF Network would be happy to work with the GLA and ACPO to publicise its services and guidance to partners in the Metropolitan Police. Practice guidance for local authorities on assessing and supporting adults and children and families with NRPF has been produced by the NRPF Network. The GLA should endorse the NRPF Network s practice guidance and promote the guidance to its partners and stakeholders. The Appendix to this document outlines the Home Office proposal to partially reimburse local authorities and refuges for the support they provide to victims of domestic violence with NRPF. The GLA should adopt a stance on these proposals and incorporate this within the strategy. APPENDIX Interpersonal Violence Unit Proposals The NRPF Network has been working closely with the Interpersonal Violence Unit (IVU) at the Home Office since the ministerial announcement in March 6 Olvia Fellas and Harriet Wilkins (2008) Victims of Domestic Violence with No Recourse to Public Funds victims_dv_nrpf.pdf 7 The NRPF Network was partly set up to create consistency across local authorities. 6
7 2008, 8 to develop proposals to release funds to organisations supporting women with applications pending under the Domestic Violence Rule (DVR). Up to 1000 per individual will be retrospectively paid to the supporting organisation (local authority or refuge) if their application under the DVR is successful. This is based on the understanding that applications submitted with the necessary supporting documentation will take no more than 20 working days to process. The NRPF Network welcomes these proposals as an acknowledgement of the vulnerable situation of this client group and of the financial pressures facing local authorities in regards to NRPF. It should be emphasised that the funds offered to local authorities represent a fraction of the total costs incurred by authorities in supporting people with NRPF and will not cover the entire cost of supporting victims of domestic violence with applications pending under the DVR. Providing such support runs at a loss to local authorities and costs are most often met through Council Tax payments. The Network is concerned that the proposals fail to fully protect women and children fleeing domestic violence. Crucially, funds need to be provided upfront to enable local authorities, refuges and voluntary agencies, to house women and children at the point of fleeing violence and to enable victims to flee abusive situations without the fear of becoming destitute. Funds should cover the period of time it takes to collate evidence of domestic violence required to support DVR applications. Retrospective payments should be based on the number of individuals being supported, not on a per-case basis. For women with several children the 1000 potentially available has to cover the entire family and is unlikely to meet the costs of supporting a large family. Payments should be tied to the DVR application process such that women, and where applicable, children, can be supported throughout the decision making process where this takes longer than the anticipated 20 working days. The 'Campaign to Abolish No Recourse to Public Funds', which is led by Southall Black Sisters (SBS), has rejected the Home Office proposals. Twenty-seven women's, immigration and human rights organisations involved in the campaign state that refuges have insufficient funding to support women who have fled domestic violence prior to the decision on their immigration applications, and that the Home Office proposal will not work unless funding is available to support the victims up front to enable them to escape an abusive situation. The Campaign highlight evidence to support this argument stating that when SBS set up a small fund to pay rent and subsistence for victims of domestic 8 v/uc26302.htm 7
8 violence for up to six weeks, many refuges refused to house women on the grounds that, due to their duty of care, they would not be able to evict them at the end of this period, indicating that refuges will be even less likely to support a woman on a limited backdated basis. The Campaign state that the most effective and humane way of dealing with the problem is to exempt victims of domestic violence and other forms of gender based violence from the no recourse requirement. The proposals were due to be rolled out nationally in May 2009, but are currently with ministers due to the campaign rejecting the proposals. The Home Office have stated that there is no updated release date for these proposals. 8
Summary of Key Points
NRPF Network s Submission to Home Office Consultation: Together we can end Violence against Women and Girls May 2009 Table of Contents Summary of Key Points...1 No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Network...1
More informationNo Recourse to Public Funds: Financial Implications for Local Authorities
No Recourse to Public Funds: Financial Implications for Local Authorities Jonathan Price and Olvia Fellas Contents 1. Introduction...1 2. Summary of key points...2 3. Background to NRPF...2 4. Research
More informationVictims of Domestic Violence with No Recourse to Public Funds
Victims of Domestic Violence with No Recourse to Public Funds Olvia Fellas, Head of Refugee and Migrant Service, Islington Council Harriet Wilkins, Community Safety Partnerships Unit, Islington Council
More informationLocal Authority obligations to people with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Olvia Fellas Team Manager
Local Authority obligations to people with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Olvia Fellas Team Manager 4 July 2007 Definition: No Recourse to Public Funds is defined as: A person who is subject to immigration
More informationNRPF Bulletin. Inside this issue. Contents
NRPF Bulletin Issue 28 February 2011 Contents 1 Preparing for End of Interim Arrangements for Accession 8 Nationals 2 The Sojourner Project - Update 3 Rights of Women Domestic Violence Guidance 4 A Guide
More informationDOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS WITH NO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS PRACTICE GUIDANCE OXFORDSHIRE
DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS WITH NO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS PRACTICE GUIDANCE OXFORDSHIRE 2010 Introduction The purpose of this guide is to assist practitioners who support people with no recourse to public
More informationGuidance for local authorities: Assessing and supporting victims of domestic violence who are from abroad and have no recourse to public funds (NRPF)
Guidance for local authorities: Assessing and supporting victims of domestic violence who are from abroad and have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) 1. Purpose This paper provides additional guidance
More informationWill the Bill Stop Her Being Turned Away? Support for survivors with no recourse to public funds (NRPF)
Minutes of the APPG on Domestic Violence Meeting Will the Bill Stop Her Being Turned Away? Support for survivors with no recourse to public funds (NRPF) 5-6pm, Wednesday 1 November 2017 Committee Room
More informationConsultation on proposals for the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) and Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) fees
Consultation on proposals for the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) and Upper Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) fees Local authorities have responsibilities to provide essential
More informationNO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS GUIDANCE AND PROCESS
NO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS GUIDANCE AND PROCESS Summary: Individuals or Families identified as having No Recourse to Public Funds may be particularly vulnerable because of a community care need and therefore
More informationFamilies with No Recourse to Public Funds
Families with No Recourse to Public Funds Policy and Procedure November 2016 Contents Who are Families with No Recourse to Public Funds Legal duties Procedures Provision of support Useful links The Immigration
More informationDepartment of Health consultation on the Care Act 2014
Department of Health consultation on the Care Act 2014 Questions considered: Question 17: Are you content that the eligibility regulations will cover any cases currently provided for by section 21 of the
More information1. Scottish Women s Aid
Scottish Parliament Equality and Human Rights Committee Inquiry into Destitution, Asylum and Insecure Immigration Status in Scotland Written evidence submitted by Scottish Women s Aid March 2017 1. Scottish
More informationRights of EU nationals after Brexit: concerns, questions and recommendations
Rights of EU nationals after Brexit: concerns, questions and recommendations Introduction Local authorities are responsible for ensuring the general well-being of their communities and residents, and need
More informationAssessing and supporting adults who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) (England) Practice guidance for local authorities
Assessing and supporting adults who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) (England) Practice guidance for local authorities February 2018 Contents 1 Introduction... 5 1.1 Who has NRPF?... 5 1.2 What
More informationEFFECTIVE ACTION SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH NO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS (NRPF) A GUIDE FOR HOMELESSNESS SERVICES
EFFECTIVE ACTION SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH NO RECOURSE TO PUBLIC FUNDS (NRPF) A GUIDE FOR HOMELESSNESS SERVICES EFFECTIVE ACTION TO END HOMELESSNESS... PRODUCED BY THE INNOVATIONS & GOOD PRACTICE TEAM PUBLISHED
More informationPeople. No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Policy and Procedure
Appendix 1 People No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Policy and Procedure Purpose: To outline how we assess and support children, young people and families and adults who have no recourse to public funds
More informationTHE AIRE CENTRE Advice on Individual Rights in Europe
THE AIRE CENTRE Advice on Individual Rights in Europe Written Evidence of the AIRE Centre to the Joint Committee on Human Rights on Violence against Women and Girls The AIRE Centre is a non-governmental
More informationIN THE MATTER OF AN OPINION REQUESTED BY THE ASSOCIATION OF CHARITABLE FOUNDATIONS, THE JOSEPH ROWNTREE TRUST AND THE JOSEPH ROWNTREE HOUSING TRUST
IN THE MATTER OF AN OPINION REQUESTED BY THE ASSOCIATION OF CHARITABLE FOUNDATIONS, THE JOSEPH ROWNTREE TRUST AND THE JOSEPH ROWNTREE HOUSING TRUST OPINION Introduction 1. I have been asked to consider
More informationDomestic Violence, Immigration and No Recourse to Public Funds. A Briefing to amend the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill
Domestic Violence, Immigration and No Recourse to Public Funds A Briefing to amend the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill April 2004 Domestic Violence, Immigration and No Recourse to Public Funds
More informationSupporting families with no recourse to public funds
Supporting families with no recourse to public funds REPLACES/AMENDS:- Document Title: Reference: Version: Dated: ORIGINATING SECTION/TEAM: AUTHOR: POLICY, PARTICIPATION & SERVICE DEVELOPMENT Deborah Dempsey
More informationCroydon Immigration and Asylum Support Service (IASS)
Croydon Immigration and Asylum Support Service (IASS) This guide tells you about the support you can expect to receive from Croydon Council if you have no recourse to public funds (NRPF). Who are we? The
More informationLeave to remain with No Recourse to Public Funds
Leave to remain with No Recourse to Public Funds A guide for immigration practitioners preparing a change of conditions application for people who are destitute January 2018 Who is this guidance for? You
More informationMigrant terms and definitions. International Organisation of Migration Group and Sub-Group Terms. IOM Migrant groups term 1
Appendix: Migrant terms and definitions Table 1: International Organisation of Migration Group and Sub-Group Terms IOM Migrant groups term 1 Assisted voluntary return Asylum seeker Documented migrant IOM
More informationNowhere To Turn, Women s Aid NOWHERE TO TURN. Findings from the fi rst year of the No Woman Turned Away project
1 NOWHERE TO TURN Findings from the fi rst year of the No Woman Turned Away project Executive summary The No Woman Turned Away (NWTA) project was commissioned by the Department of Communities and Local
More informationMigrant workers Social services duties to provide accommodation and other services
Law Centre (NI) Community Care Information Briefing No. 14 (Revised edition) August 2012 Migrant workers Social services duties to provide accommodation and other services At a glance It is likely that,
More informationAsylum Support for dependants
Asylum Support for November 2016 Factsheet 11 In this Factsheet: Definition of a dependant Conditions must meet to be added to a support application Adding additional Adding a new born to support Difficulties
More informationKey pressures on local authority NRPF service provision
Key pressures on local authority NRPF service provision 1. Lawfully present migrants who have NRPF Local authorities will have a duty to provide support, under section 17 Children Act 1989 and section
More informationBriefing note: The right to rent scheme and asylum support
June 2017 Briefing note: The right to rent scheme and asylum support WHY IS THIS AN ISSUE? These provisions apply to England only and unless indicated otherwise for tenancies entered into from 1 st February
More informationNRPF Connect User Guide A Detailed Guide to Recording Immigration Status on NRPF Connect
A Detailed Guide to Recording Immigration Status on NRPF Connect Local authorities have a statutory responsibility to safeguard vulnerable children and adults, responsibilities that may lead to the provision
More informationAssessment and Support of Post 18 UASC s listed as Appeal Rights Exhausted
Assessment and Support of Post 18 UASC s listed as Appeal Rights Exhausted As of June 2012 1. Introduction 1. This paper has been produced by a Task and Finish Group established by the Local Government
More informationBackground Briefing. Asylum destitution. Glasgow City Council Meeting 28 June Councilor Susan Aitken:
27 June 2012 Background Briefing Asylum destitution Glasgow City Council Meeting 28 June 2012 Councilor Susan Aitken: Council condemns the United Kingdom Border Agency policy of destitution and the eviction
More informationResearch into how No Recourse to Public Funds status affects those experiencing gender based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence in Wales
Research into how No Recourse to Public Funds status affects those experiencing gender based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence in Wales Produced by the Local Government Data Unit ~ Wales Prepared
More informationRefugee Council Refugees without refuge. Findings from a survey of newly recognised refugees
Refugee Council Refugees without refuge Findings from a survey of newly recognised refugees September 2017 Refugee Council Refugees without refuge Findings from a survey of newly recognised refugees September
More informationThe Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill Briefing for the House of Lords, Committee Stage, January 2012
The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill Briefing for the House of Lords, Committee Stage, January 2012 VIOLENCE AGANIST WOMEN IN THE UK The Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders
More informationDestitution of Young Refugees in the UK Aoife O Higgins Oxford Monitor of Forced Migration Volume 1, Number 2, The online version of this
Destitution of Young Refugees in the UK Aoife O Higgins Oxford Monitor of Forced Migration Volume 1, Number 2, 8-11. The online version of this document can be found at: www.oxmofm.com Copyright for articles
More informationLeave to remain with No Recourse to Public Funds
Leave to remain with No Recourse to Public Funds A guide to preparing a change of conditions application for people who are destitute January 2018 Who is this guidance for? You should use this guidance
More informationWELFARE REFORM COMMITTEE WELFARE FUNDS (SCOTLAND) BILL SUBMISSION FROM SCOTTISH REFUGEE COUNCIL
WELFARE REFORM COMMITTEE WELFARE FUNDS (SCOTLAND) BILL SUBMISSION FROM SCOTTISH REFUGEE COUNCIL About Scottish Refugee Council 1. Scottish Refugee Council is Scotland s leading refugee charity with a vision
More informationAn Early Help Guide. By C Mapp, May 2017
An Early Help Guide By C Mapp, May 2017 1 Training objectives To raise awareness of the topic of No Recourse to Public Funds Who do we mean when we say someone is NRPF? What are / are not public funds?
More informationA joint meeting of the APPG on Ending Homelessness & the APPG on Domestic Violence
Minutes of the APPG on Domestic Violence Meeting A joint meeting of the APPG on Ending Homelessness & the APPG on Domestic Violence Monday 21 May, 2-3:30pm Boothroyd Room, House of Commons The joint meeting
More informationSocial Services Support for Destitute Migrant Families
Social Services Support for Destitute Migrant Families A guide to support under s 17 Children Act 1989 This guidance has been produced by the Public Law Project ( PLP ), a national legal charity whose
More informationNRPF Bulletin. Inside this issue. Contents
NRPF Bulletin Issue 42 January 2014 Contents 1 NRPF Connect Update 2 Case law update 3 Policy campaign: NHS (Charges to Overseas Visitors) regulations - call for case studies 4 Introduction to the role
More informationReforming support for failed asylum seekers and other illegal migrants
Reforming support for failed asylum seekers and other illegal migrants Consultation response from the Local Government Association (LGA), Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA), the Convention of Scottish
More informationSupporting Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC)
The Association of Directors of Children s Services Ltd #adcsconf16 Supporting Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children (UASC) ADCS Annual Conference 2016 The Association of Directors of Children s Services
More informationAN OVERVIEW OF THE WELFARE ENTITLEMENT OF VICTIMS OF TRAFFICKING AND SECURING THESE IN PRACTICE
AN OVERVIEW OF THE WELFARE ENTITLEMENT OF VICTIMS OF TRAFFICKING AND SECURING THESE IN PRACTICE Article 12 of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings requires assistance
More informationWritten evidence from the Law Society of England and Wales. House of Commons Public Bill Committee considering the Data Protection Bill [HL]
Written evidence from the Law Society of England and Wales House of Commons Public Bill Committee considering the Data Protection Bill [HL] 2017-19 1. Executive Summary 1.1. This submission to the Public
More informationCOSLA Response to the Scottish Parliament Equalities and Human Rights Committee on Destitution, Asylum and Insecure Immigration Status in Scotland
COSLA Response to the Scottish Parliament Equalities and Human Rights Committee on Destitution, Asylum and Insecure Immigration Status in Scotland Introduction 1. The Convention of Scottish Local Authorities
More informationStreet to Home Bulletin 2010/11
Street to Home Bulletin 2010/11 This report presents information about people seen rough sleeping by outreach teams in London and those who have used accommodation for rough sleepers in London in 2010/11.
More informationNRPF Network Briefing
NRPF Network Briefing Issue 1 January 2007 Inside This Issue 1 - First Edition 1 - Background to the Network 2 - Regional NRPF Groups 2 - Destitution Awareness Week 3 - Early Day Motions 3 - Dispersal
More informationUntil there s a home for everyone
Until there s a home for everyone CIH Allocations, Lettings and Homelessness Conference 2015 Workshop B3 Joint working to prevent homelessness and to meet discharge duties Deborah Garvie Senior Policy
More informationSubmission to the APPG on Refugees inquiry Refugees Welcome?
Submission to the APPG on Refugees inquiry Refugees Welcome? 1. Still Human Still Here is a coalition of 79 organisations that are seeking to end the destitution of asylum seekers in the UK. Its members
More informationSubmission from Scottish Women s Aid to the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights call for evidence
Submission from Scottish Women s Aid to the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights call for evidence September 2018 Scottish Women's Aid (SWA) is the lead organisation in Scotland working
More informationPUBLIC LAW PROJECT. Social Services Support for Destitute Migrant Families
PUBLIC LAW PROJECT Social Services Support for Destitute Migrant Families A guide to support under s 17 Children Act 1989 This guidance has been produced by the Public Law Project ( PLP ), a national legal
More informationRefugee Council Briefing on the Queen s Speech 2017
Queen s Speech 2017 Refugee Council Briefing on the Queen s Speech 2017 June 2017 About the Refugee Council The Refugee Council is one of the leading organisations in the UK working with people seeking
More informationThese massive delays risk leaving some of the most vulnerable people destitute or threatened with street homelessness.
In a report released in July 2017, Refugee Action examined the extent of the delays in receiving support experienced by the asylum seekers who we work with; and explored the impact that such delays are
More informationSCOTTISH REFUGEE COUNCIL WRITTEN SUBMISSION
About Scottish Refugee Council SCOTTISH REFUGEE COUNCIL WRITTEN SUBMISSION 1. Scottish Refugee Council is Scotland s leading refugee charity with a vision to ensure that all refugees seeking protection
More informationScottish Parliament Equal Opportunities and Human Rights Committee Inquiry into Destitution, Asylum and Insecure Immigration Status in Scotland
Scottish Parliament Equal Opportunities and Human Rights Committee Inquiry into Destitution, Asylum and Insecure Immigration Status in Scotland Written evidence from Positive Action in Housing - March
More informationFamily Migration: A Consultation
Discrimination Law Association Response to UK Border Agency Family Migration: A Consultation The Discrimination Law Association (DLA) is a registered charity established to promote good community relations
More informationREFUGEE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
REFUGEE FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1. What are the main reasons that people become refugees, and what other reasons drive people from their homes and across borders? There are many reasons a person may
More informationBreach of Human Rights and S4
Breach of Human Rights and S4 April 2016 Factsheet 12 In this Factsheet: Breach of European Convention of Human Rights Is it Reasonable to Expect the Asylum- Seeker Leave the UK? Out of Time Appeals to
More informationGwendolyn Sterk, Public Affairs Manager. Welsh Women s Aid.
Submission to the Department of Communities and Local Government and Department of Work and Pensions Consultation on Funding for Supported Housing, February 2017 Names: Organisation: mail address: Telephone
More informationHousing Allocation and Homelessness. Liz Davies, barrister Garden Court Chambers 16 April 2015
Housing Allocation and Homelessness Liz Davies, barrister Garden Court Chambers 16 April 2015 Housing Allocation Housing Act 1996, Part 6 (not amended by Localism Act 2011); 2015 Code of Guidance for Local
More informationDiscretionary leave considerations for victims of modern slavery. Version 2.0
Discretionary leave considerations for victims of modern slavery Version 2.0 Page 1 of 19 Published for Home Office staff on 10 September 2018 Contents Contents... 2 About this guidance... 4 Contacts...
More informationIMMIGRATION BILL DELEGATED POWERS MEMORANDUM BY THE HOME OFFICE
IMMIGRATION BILL DELEGATED POWERS MEMORANDUM BY THE HOME OFFICE INTRODUCTION 1. This Memorandum identifies the provisions of the Immigration Bill as introduced in the House of Lords which confer powers
More informationMaking sure people seeking and refused asylum can access healthcare:
Image of doctor examining the ear of a patient that is seeking or refused asylum Making sure people seeking and refused asylum can access healthcare: what needs to change? 2 What change is needed to make
More informationHousing Destitute Migrants. Heather Petch & Sue Lukes ACF/London Funders meeting Nov 2014
Heather Petch & Sue Lukes ACF/London Funders meeting Nov 2014 Background to project JRF identifies causes of and solutions to poverty & influences to bring about lasting change Project to promote housing
More informationNATIONAL STRATEGIES AND POLICIES UK & NORTHERN IRELAND
NATIONAL STRATEGIES AND POLICIES UK & NORTHERN IRELAND SITUATION The latest estimate released is that total net migration to the UK in the year ending September 2016 was 273,000. EU 165,000 Non EU 164,000
More informationDOMESTIC VIOLENCE. AN MP s GUIDE. Supplementary Booklet
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AN MP s GUIDE Supplementary Booklet CONTENTS PAGE Foreword Page 1 Introduction: Aims of booklet, recognising domestic violence Page 2 Government action and national delivery Page 4 Domestic
More informationUK
Family Reunion 1. Introduction 1.1 Application of this instruction in respect of children and those with children 2. Family Reunion Policy 2.1 Eligibility 2.1.1 Eligible applicants 2.1.2 Ineligible applicants
More informationLaw Centre (NI) Information Briefing March New working arrangements for adult victims of trafficking in Northern Ireland.
Law Centre (NI) Information Briefing March 2013 HUMAN TRAFFICKING New working arrangements for adult victims of trafficking in Northern Ireland. At a glance This briefing summarises and analyses provisions
More informationThe British Association of Social Workers (BASW) Response to The Children s Society Inquiry into Asylum support for children and young families
The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) Response to The Children s Society Inquiry into Asylum support for children and young families BASW is the UK professional association for social workers.
More informationCardiff Multi Agency Human Trafficking Forum. Briefing Paper II for the CCC Cabinet & Cardiff Partnership Board April 2013
Item 9.2 Cardiff Multi Agency Human Trafficking Forum Briefing Paper II for the CCC Cabinet & Cardiff Partnership Board April 2013 Introduction The Welsh Government advises agencies and service providers
More informationWelsh Action for Refugees: briefing for Assembly Members. The Welsh Refugee Coalition. Wales: Nation of Sanctuary. The Refugee Crisis
Welsh Action for Refugees: briefing for Assembly Members The Welsh Refugee Coalition We are a coalition of organisations working in Wales with asylum seekers and refugees at all stages of their journey,
More informationCentral and Eastern European migrants in Tameside : Executive summary
Central and Eastern European migrants in Tameside : Executive summary Scullion, LC and Morris, GJ Title Authors Type URL Published Date 2010 Central and Eastern European migrants in Tameside : Executive
More informationAsylum and Immigration Act 2004: An update
March 2005 Asylum and Immigration Act 2004: An update Contents Introduction...1 Implementation summary...2 Content of the Act...3 1. Entering the UK without a passport...3 2. Credibility of asylum applicants...4
More informationSeeking Refuge? A handbook for asylum-seeking women UPDATE 2014 FOLLOWING CHANGES TO THE IMMIGRATION RULES ON FAMILY MIGRATION
Seeking Refuge? A handbook for asylum-seeking women UPDATE 2014 FOLLOWING CHANGES TO THE IMMIGRATION RULES ON FAMILY MIGRATION What does this Update cover? Please note that the law on asylum and the asylum
More informationCASEWORK BULLETIN. Introduction. Social security Number 1 Law Centre (NI)
Law Centre (NI) Introduction Welcome to our e-bulletin where we share some of our interesting cases. We hope this gives you some ideas for your own work and alerts you to when it might be possible to take
More informationHuman Rights. Article 3
Right to Remain Toolkit, April 2018 The UK is bound by the European Convention on, and the protection of these rights is part of UK law through the Act. The main rights that lead to a specific form of
More informationDecember London enriched. The Mayor s refugee integration strategy
December 2009 London enriched The Mayor s refugee integration strategy December 2009 London enriched The Mayor s refugee integration strategy 2 London enriched Greater London Authority November 2009 Published
More informationGETTING AND PAYING FOR HOUSING
GETTING AND PAYING FOR HOUSING A GUIDE FOR THOSE ADVISING POLISH VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE Sue Lukes TEL: 0800 061 4004 E-mail: info@polishdvhelpline.org FOREWORD We are very pleased to present this guide
More informationPLUS Project Training Programme July March 2018
PLUS Project Training Programme July 2017 - March 2018 Contents Introduction... 3 Training calendar:... 4 Training Course Outline... 5 Homelessness Prevention & Reduction. 5 Aggressive & Difficult Behaviours...
More informationMigrant Workers and People Seeking Asylum - Facts and Myths
Migrant Workers and People Seeking Asylum - s and Myths Information for young people in Somerset Understanding the difference between Migrant Workers, Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Illegal Immigrants Migrant
More informationThe Immigration Act and Asylum Support
The Immigration Act and Asylum Support What does it all mean for people seeking refugee protection? @lornakgledhill @RAAWestMids Lorna Gledhill Regional Asylum Activism What is RAA? Coordinated nationally
More informationResponse to the UK Border Agency s Consultation on Strengthening the Common Travel Area
16 October 2008 Response to the UK Border Agency s Consultation on Strengthening the Common Travel Area About the organisations responding jointly to this Consultation As a human rights charity, independent
More informationBorders, Citizenship and Immigration Act August Summary of key changes introduced by the Act: The Refugee Council s concern.
Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 August 2009 Summary of key changes introduced by the Act: Key change The Refugee Council s concern Sections 39 and 41 establish a new path to citizenship for
More informationNo Recourse to Public Funds An Overview of Legal Challenges So Far
No Recourse to Public Funds An Overview of Legal Challenges So Far Table of Contents 1. The new Immigration Rules and the NRPF condition...1 2. Who is affected by the NRPF policy...4 3. Overview of legal
More informationWho is eligible for housing? By Amy Lush, 12 College Place
Who is eligible for housing? By Amy Lush, 12 College Place alush@12cp.co.uk 02380 320 320 Introduction Eligibility for housing allocation and housing assistance Non-EEA nationals EEA nationals Right to
More informationADCS and LGA response to Home Office UASC Funding Review
ADCS and LGA response to Home Office UASC Funding Review Background September 2017 The Association of Directors of Children s Services (ADCS) is the professional leadership association representing directors
More informationLONDON MIGRANT HOMELESSNESS CONFERENCE
LONDON MIGRANT HOMELESSNESS CONFERENCE Summary Report produced 18 th November 2013. The full report can be found on Refugee Action s website www.refugee-action.org.uk 1 Introduction This conference report
More informationDecember 2008 Not Destitute Enough
December 2008 A report documenting UKBA s failure to apply the correct legal definitions of destitution in asylum support decisions Contents Page Foreword 2 Executive summary 3 Methodology 4 Background
More informationThe Children s Society s submission to the Consultation on School Funding Reform: Proposals for a Fairer System 11 October 2011
The Children s Society s submission to the Consultation on School Funding Reform: Proposals for a Fairer System 11 October 2011 Introduction The Children s Society supports nearly 50,000 children and young
More informationRethinking social policy for asylum seeking care leavers. A contribution to the Commons debate on the Children and Social Work Bill
Rethinking social policy for asylum seeking care leavers A contribution to the Commons debate on the Children and Social Work Bill Jasmine Ali Senior Policy Advisor October 2016 Rethinking social policy
More informationUniversal Credit Regulations Call for Evidence
Universal Credit Regulations Call for Evidence Introduction Refuge opened the world s first refuge in 1971 and is now the country s largest single provider of specialist domestic violence services. On
More informationAll-Party Parliamentary Group for Ending Homelessness
All-Party Parliamentary Group for Ending Homelessness Rapidly responding to homelessness a look at migrant homelessness, youth homelessness and rapid rehousing models July 2018: Report 2 This is not an
More informationSUBMISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN
SUBMISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS COMMITTEE ON THE ELIMINATION OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN Shadow Report on the Sixth Periodic Report of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland May
More informationThe Refugee Council s submission to the Education and Skills Committee inquiry into Every Child Matters
The Refugee Council s submission to the Education and Skills Committee inquiry into Every Child Matters November 2004 Registered address: Refugee Council, 3 Bondway, London SW8 1SJ Charity number: 1014576
More informationBorders, Citizenship and Immigration Bill 2009
Joint Parliamentary Briefing from the British Refugee Council, the Scottish Refugee Council and the Welsh Refugee Council: Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Bill 2009 House of Lords Second Reading,
More informationThe LGA and ADASS welcome the opportunity to comment on this consultation.
234 Joint response from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) and the Local Government Association (LGA) to the Department of Health Ordinary Residence Guidance Consultation Background
More informationLiberty s response to the UK Border Authority s consultation on Reforming Asylum Support
Liberty s response to the UK Border Authority s consultation on Reforming Asylum Support February 2010 About Liberty Liberty (The National Council for Civil Liberties) is one of the UK s leading civil
More informationParliamentary inquiry into asylum support for children and young people
Parliamentary inquiry into asylum support for children and young people December 2012 1. About Barnardo s 1.1 Barnardo s is the UK s largest children s charity, with 800 services supporting over 200,000
More information