Good Practice

"Without the help on every matter like housing, benefits and education we would have had great difficulty in managing everyday life." Khider, parent from Iraq

Good Practice

Many asylum seekers have little information about the asylum process in the UK and what their rights and entitlements are. The Refugee Council produces translated information on a range of topics, accessed over the phone or via their website. It is vital that an asylum seeker finds a legal representative, registered with the Office of Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) to help with his or her asylum claim. The OISC regulates the provision of legal advice and representation, and people not registered to give such advice may be prosecuted.

Schools can help by:

being aware that families may be coping with high levels of stress and uncertainty during the asylum process
being aware of how prejudice and racism against asylum seekers may impact upon the well-being and safety of children and families
helping families understand any official letters they receive
writing letters of support when needed
providing information about entitlements or any extra facilities available in school, e.g. free school meals, homework clubs
helping families apply for grants for essential items
ensuring that parents are aware that they are entitled to ask for interpreters when dealing with government agencies, NHS and utility suppliers
providing information about local advice services
developing links with local advice services so that referrals can be made when appropriate