Jon, a 34-year-old man, arrived in the United Kingdom in 2009, fleeing conflict and persecution in his home country. He sought asylum but faced a daunting and uncertain journey ahead.
Jon’s asylum application was pending for an extended period, leaving him in a precarious situation.
He had no right to work, limited access to essential services, and lived in constant fear of deportation. For 13 long years, he battled the hardships of destitution and uncertainty.
In the summer of 2022, Jon was referred to our charity by the Govan Community Project. His appeal rights had been exhausted, and his future seemed bleak. However, our dedicated team immediately began working on his case.
We helped Jon with accommodation and weekly subsistence as part of our Breathing space project. We assisted him with legal support through our expert Gillian at Strathclyde law clinic in order to submit a fresh claim application, presenting new evidence to support his asylum case. Our legal experts meticulously reviewed his situation, ensuring that all relevant documentation was in order. We provided emotional support and guidance, assuring him that he was not alone in this journey.
The results were remarkable. Jon’s fresh claim application was successful, and he was granted leave to remain in the UK straightaway which doesn’t always happen all the time. Once the fresh claim is successful, people receive section 4 support. This life-changing decision meant that he could legally work and contribute to society after 13 years being in the UK. It was a pivotal moment that filled him with hope and a sense of belonging.
Jon’s transformation was not just about legal status; it was about restoring his dignity and confidence. With the ability to work and earn money legally, he was no longer confined to the shadows of society. He could now make informed decisions about his life, pursue his dreams, and be counted as an equal among his peers.
Jon’s journey from destitution and despair to hope and opportunity is a testimony to the crucial work carried out by our charity. Through our dedication and commitment to supporting asylum seekers, we empower individuals to rebuild their lives and become valuable contributors to their communities. Jon’s story is a shining example of the positive impact we can achieve together.
*name withheld to protect the author’s identity
