Life after release
Getting released from detention can be exhilarating on the day, a literally unbelievable feeling. But release from detention is not straightforward given the challenges, complexities and hostility of the UK immigration system.
Unless a person has been freed because they have won their case, their legal battles are probably not over. They may have to survive on little or no money, and will most likely be unable to work legally. Even people granted refugee status struggle to get established in the UK. People who have been in detention may have become unplugged from their previous support networks, and health care services including mental health services, or may need all of this as a result of being detained and yet not know how to find it. People may struggle with unfair treatment, of being marked out somehow by being detained, of shame, and of fear of being re-detained.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, during which time large numbers of people were released from detention, visitor groups in the AVID network have increased the support that they offer post-detention. This varies from limited support in emergency situations; support with travel costs; onward referrals and signposting to continued casework support. However, the majority of groups do not have the resources to provide continued support to people who were previously detained.
It is important for visitors to know what their group offers after detention so that they can be clear on the nature of their visiting relationship from the start and on what will happen after the person leaves detention. It is also important to be aware of other sources of support which you can signpost someone to after detention so that this transition is as easy as possible.
Visitor Groups Providing Post-Detention Support
Asylum Welcome
Some limited support with one off issues (for example, referrals or payment for travel).
Beyond Detention
1:1 casework support and befriending, peer support (Friendship Group), some financial support and referrals to other support organisations.
The Friendship Group is open to anyone in the UK who has experienced immigration detention. It is run and managed by a steering group of people, all with lived experience of detention. It is a safe space to talk, share ideas and make new friends. Priority is given to those who have been detained in Yarl’s Wood.
Durham Visitors Group
Some informal support and signposting might continue, depending on the visitor.
Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group
Monthly community walks and Refugee Tales long walk in the summer (free for people with lived experience of detention).
Referrals to local agencies and support organisations.
Jesuit Refugee Service
Onward referrals and for people with severe additional needs.
Waging Peace
Ongoing support for Sudanese people and communities after and before detention. Includes 1:1 support, advice and information, community groups and training.
Other useful information and organisations
Samphire’s Ex-Detainee Project
The organisation Samphire, which started out as the visitors group for Dover IRC, operates the Ex-Detainee Support Project. More information is available here.
Samphire’s advice services to former detainees include a helpline offering advice, support, signposting and referrals to essential services including legal representation, healthcare, and welfare support in their local areas. Advisors help with homelessness and destitution, entitlement to asylum support, emotional and casework support, and make referrals to volunteering, education, and awareness-raising opportunities.
Advice Line: 01304 201 535 Freephone: (landlines): 0800 9179397
Open Monday to Friday between 10.00 and 13.00 Email: info@samphireproject.org.uk
No Recourse to Public Funds Network (NRPF)
No Recourse to Public Funds Network (NRPF) is a network of local authorities and partner organisations focusing on the statutory duties to migrants with care needs who have no recourse to public funds. https://www.nrpfnetwork.org.uk/information-and-resources
No Recourse to Public Funds Network, guidance on NHS treatment
Right To Remain
Right To Remain provide material and guidance on the UK immigration and asylum system for people to better understand their case and how to better understand their case and how to self-advocate.
Right to Remain have a Directory of organisations who work in solidarity with migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.
Hackney Migrant Centre
Hackney Migrant Centre provide free advice and information on immigration, welfare and health and have put together this information sheet detailing drop-in support in London.
On The Out
On The Out is a movement, set up by and for people who have experienced life in prison. Support for people in Manchester with life after prison including housing, benefits, going to probation and attending other appointments for more specialist help.
Praxis
Praxis provides free immigration and welfare advice to people in London. Priority is given to those on a very low income or people experiencing destitution. Their focus is on applications made on human rights grounds and they do not assist with asylum claims.
Free advice line: 020 7749 7605, Wednesday 2-5pm.
Praxis have created this guide for people who have secured their immigration status.
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