The remit of our casework team is to support people in the asylum process, this includes people already in the process as well as those looking to enter and those who have been refused asylum. Where there are significant safeguarding concerns, we may offer initial advice and referrals to those with no recourse to public funds. We cannot support EU migrants or those on work or student visas.
Please note: due to current staff shortages and increased local demand, we are no longer able to take clients from outside the City Region. If you are travelling from outside the region you will not be seen. If unsure, check by emailing the Casework Team caseworkers@asylumlink.org.uk For the same reason, we cannot currently accept external referrals. 27th Nov 2024
What we can help with
- Information, advice and support for asylum seekers looking to understand their rights and entitlements.
- Support accessing mainstream services.
- Advice and support in applying for Asylum Support (accommodation and financial support from the Home Office).
- Advice and representation appealing a refusal or cessation of Asylum Support.
- Advice and support on issues involving Home Office accommodation, including resolving issues of disrepair and requests to move accommodation.
- Signposting and referrals to specialist agencies.
- Advice and support raising safeguarding concerns with relevant agencies.
- Limited immigration advice (up to OISC Level 1) for victims of domestic abuse.
- Support for refused asylum seekers looking to make fresh claims for asylum (we provide support in gather new information and evidence and referring onto legal aid lawyers).
- Weekly food parcels for the destitute.
- Second tier advice to services supporting people in the asylum process.
What we cannot help with
- Legal representation for asylum claimants. We are NOT immigration solicitors, nor can we assist people in accessing legal representation for existing claims.
- Visa applications / renewals of leave to remain.
- Applications to lift the ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ condition from a person’s leave.
- Issues relating to EU migration, including the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Updates on the status of someone’s application with the Home Office.
- Provision of accommodation or financial support.
- Clothes store – you can call 0151 709 1713 to book an appointment to access our clothes store, but it is easier to visit and book at the help desk. There is a nominal charge for items, but those who are destitute or in receipt of asylum support are eligible for up to £10 worth of items per person, per month.
- English classes – call 0151 709 1713 to check availability in our classes. As of 27th Nov 2024 we are still working on the September waiting list and not taking new students other than for the Tuesday afternoon Conversation Class (mixed) and the Monday/Thursday afternoon (Women only) ESOL classes
- Social activities – look at our website and social media for our current weekly activity timetable. No need to book onto these activities, just turn up and join in.
- Hot meals – breakfast (9.30am) and a hot lunch (12pm) are served Monday – Friday at our centre.