Group calls for compassion, fair decisions, and support at all stages
The refugee support charity Refugee Action last week set out its vision for a fair and effective asylum system.
Refugee Action published a short, 7-page policy statement available here.
It calls for an asylum system "that is fair and effective, that treats people with respect and humanity and that honours Britain's proud history of refugee protection."
The group outlines its positive vision based on four key pillars where asylum seekers and refugees receive:
- Compassion, so that those seeking protection are informed and empowered to navigate the system.
- Fair decisions on their asylum claim.
- Support that is timely and enables asylum seekers to look after themselves and their families.
- Help to rebuild their lives once through the asylum system, whatever the outcome.
While Refugee Action acknowledges the UK Government's dramatic increase in the number of refugees it resettles in the UK, it says far less attention has been given to those who arrive in the UK seeking asylum.
"We believe the same energy and commitment shown by politicians and the public to support refugees overseas can come together once again to create an asylum system that is fair and effective, that treats people with respect and humanity and that honours Britain's proud history of refugee protection. We all benefit when society treats everyone with dignity," Refugee Action said.
Among its goals, Refugee Action says it wants to see an asylum system where early access to high-quality legal advice and support that's easy to access and adequately resourced becomes the norm, and that such advice and support continues at all stages of the asylum process.
Mariam Kemple Hardy, head of campaigns at Refugee Action, said earlier: "Our asylum system is leaving vulnerable families and individuals, many of whom have fled war and persecution, homeless and hungry. People are treated like criminals for seeking sanctuary. Refugees, particularly women, face huge barriers to integration, as they are unable to work or access English lessons while claiming asylum.
"We're calling on all political parties to make a commitment that all those who arrive in Britain seeking protection have access to a fair, compassionate and effective asylum system."