An estimated 3.5 million EU citizens currently resident in the UK are required to apply to remain in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme.
However, there are concerns that some of those required to apply remain unaware of the Scheme, or they may struggle to make an application. These vulnerable applicants may include the elderly, people with disabilities, homeless and rough sleepers, Roma communities, survivors of human trafficking and modern slavery, and young care-leavers.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) will lead a partnership with three organizations – St Mungo’s, The3million, and Here for Good – to support vulnerable EU citizens resident in the UK as they seek access to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), which will allow them to remain after June 2021.
“Vulnerable and at-risk migrants can be overlooked in traditional support structures,” explained Dipti Pardeshi, IOM UK Chief of Mission. “EU citizens residing in the UK have made significant contributions here, and we are committed to helping ensure that those at risk of being overlooked are aware of their rights, know how to apply and are provided with appropriate support.”
Under this grant agreement, IOM will work closely with local authorities across the UK, providing additional capacity to help support vulnerable individuals under their care.
This grant is one part of a total of GBP 9 million made available by the Home Office for 57 organizations to support a total of 200,000 people access the EUSS who may be marginalised or in need of help.
Original source: IOM
Published on 21 May 2019
