Drawing on the experiences of its member organisations, which provide frontline, independent and free immigration and asylum advice, AdviceUK has responded to the Home Office’s “The new Independent Appeals Body” consultation.
We support the Government’s efforts to reduce delays and backlogs in the immigration and asylum appeals system. However, the current proposals set out in the consultation are unlikely to achieve these aims. If anything, they risk creating further inefficiencies, delays, and exacerbating existing problems in the system.
Our members in the immigration and asylum advice sector tell us that the proposals would place additional demand on already overstretched advice services. Independent advice agencies across the UK remain under intense pressure, with chronic underfunding, staff shortages and demand exceeding capacity. Since April 2024, data from AdvicePro (a case management system used by advice services), shows that asylum cases account for around two-thirds (68%) of all immigration advice work, a 20% increase from the previous year.
By removing qualified judges, compressing appeal timelines, and allowing decisions to be driven by the public interest (which remains unclear), there is a risk of undermining public confidence in immigration and asylum decisions. Our member organisation, Migrants Organise, reports that now that asylum decision-making has accelerated, and initial grant rates have fallen, they have seen a steep rise in refusals requiring complex appeals at a time when legal representation is least available.
For free and independent advice sector, it would mean increased demand, greater complexity, and intensified pressure, but advice services fear they won’t be able to meet the needs of those turning to them for support.
Furthermore, we are concerned that the proposals may erode the rights of immigrants and asylum seekers to settle in the UK lawfully and legitimately.
Therefore, AdviceUK urges the Government to work with the advice sector to design any reforms to the system and to give the free and independent advice sector the support it needs and deserves, so it can continue to support those who are most in need, including migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.
📑Read more in our consultation response.
Notes to Editors
About AdviceUK
AdviceUK is a national charity and the largest network of independent advice centres in the UK, delivering free specialist advice to millions of people each year on a diverse range of issues. Run by and for its nearly 700 members, we provide support, a community and development opportunities for members, as well as a voice on issues that affect them.
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