Whilst the uncertainty continues to loom large, it is certain at least for now that EU citizens will require Leave to enter or remain in the UK when the UK leaves the EU.
The government’s EU Settlement Scheme offers a new pathway for EU citizens currently living in the UK to secure their immigration status in the UK. Although, the Scheme sets out a simple and straightforward process, it unfolds within a challenging environment characterised by limited information & publicity, inadequate resourcing, and uncertainty/anxiety among EU nationals. As such, engagement with the scheme by concerned communities and local organisations that support vulnerable EU migrants is fragile.
To ensure that vulnerable EU migrants engage with the scheme in order to reduce the risk of further vulnerability, Migrant Action and Migrant Resource Centreorganised a training workshop for local organisations supporting vulnerable migrants. Over 21 participants from local organisations and local authority across Doncaster, Barnsley, Sheffield, Bradford and Leeds attended the workshop. The participants gained better understanding of the scheme, practical tips for completing the application process and relevant documentations. Participants also received good guidance regarding regulated and non-regulated advice.
The workshop was a good networking opportunity and also included a Q&A session which allowed participants to explore a range of issues to enhance understanding and preparedness. Following from the workshop, Migrant Action will continue to work collaboratively with local partner organisations to develop community based support to ensure that vulnerable EU migrants are aware and able to access right support.
Click the link below for a very useful factsheet produced by NRPF on the EU Settlement Scheme, settled status and access to benefits. It confirms that having settled status is sufficient to meet a right to reside requirement for benefit purposes.
http://www.nrpfnetwork.org.uk/Documents/EU-Settlement-Scheme.pdf
