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Lewisham’s Life-Changing Support for Sanctuary Seekers

By Alan Robertson

A friendly face helping you to find the answers can make the world of a difference. Here at Lewisham Refugee & Migrant Network (LRMN) we strive to ensure that all sanctuary seekers are supported and welcomed into our community. Our advice team works hard so that everyone who walks through our door can have their voices heard, be it on immigration justice, safe housing, or healthcare charging – particularly those who are facing homelessness and destitution. 

At LRMN, we offer various services, from immigration advice to housing and welfare benefits support, and mental health counselling. In 2023 alone, our team assisted over 800 people with immigration issues and provided housing and welfare advice to 221 individuals. These numbers reflect not just the breadth of our services but the depth of need in our community. 

The past year has been particularly challenging, with a rise in the number of people facing homelessness and destitution. Our team has worked tirelessly, often partnering with local councils and other organisations to ensure no one falls through the cracks. 

Providing refuge and support 

One story that stands out is that of Samuel and Ade, two brothers who were in the middle of GCSEs and A-levels whose lives were turned upside down when their parents’ relationship broke down due to domestic abuse. Suddenly, they were homeless, alongside their mum, brother, and sister, evicted with barely enough time to gather their revision notes. They presented to the Council for help, but were turned away as they didn’t have access to public funds. 

In desperation, they came to LRMN and our team immediately took steps to support the family with emergency accommodation, counselling, and eventually helped the family find long-term housing. The immigration team then took on the mother’s case and successfully managed to settle her status. 

Today, Samuel and Ade are back in school, focusing on their studies rather than worrying about where they’ll sleep at night. 

Another powerful example is Ibrahim, who fled his war-torn country for safety. After a perilous journey, he found himself in the UK, but the complexities of the asylum process, compounded by a language barrier, left him homeless and isolated. Disorientated and lacking any support network, Ibrahim slept under a bridge through a cold winter. 

When Ibrahim came to LRMN, we helped him navigate the asylum support system and connected him with local resources. He now has a safe place to stay and is learning English, although he’s still awaiting his asylum decision. We are committed to supporting him every step of the way. 

These stories highlight the meaningful impact of our work at LRMN. Thanks to the support of organisations like AdviceUK, we can continue helping people like Samuel, Ade, and Ibrahim find security and hope in the face of adversity. 

Future plans 

Our work is far from over. As we look to the future, we know that continued funding is essential to sustain and expand our services. Without it, many vulnerable individuals may not receive the support they need.  

Advice funding allows us to continue helping people like Samuel, Ade, and Ibrahim – and to work towards a system where all those seeking sanctuary receive the dignity, safety, and respect they deserve. Thank you to AdviceUK for enabling this mission, and helping us help our most vulnerable in our community, together.