Supporting Refugees and Asylum Seekers: A Look into FEE’s Impactful Support Services

Since its inception in 2013, FEE has been a beacon of support for over 2350 individuals through various community projects. Among the many services offered, the administrative and translation support services have emerged as a vital resource, particularly aiding refugees and asylum seekers in navigating the complex asylum process.

On arriving in the UK, many individuals seeking asylum have minimal or no knowledge of English. They find themselves housed in hotels or local hostels while their asylum applications undergo extensive processing – a period that can stretch out for many months. This limbo situation often places them thousands of miles away from their families and their former careers, leaving them unable to engage in their previous professions.

Communication is a lifeline

During this lengthy process, asylum seekers are allocated a mere £9 per week for essential expenses. FEE recognised the importance of enabling communication with their loved ones and thus began distributing free SIM cards. These SIM cards alleviate the fear of exhausting their limited funds solely on connecting with family and friends – a crucial lifeline during such challenging times.

While FEE doesn’t directly handle asylum applications (this is managed by solicitors), their support has been instrumental. Over the past decade, the organisation has assisted 375 individuals with administrative and interpreting needs tied to their asylum processes. 

FEE has a contract with the Home Office, which empowers them to aid refugees and asylum seekers in various bureaucratic tasks, such as visa applications, travel documents, leave to remain, BRP, NI numbers, HMRC benefits advice and guidance on claiming Universal Credit. Most of these services are free, with a nominal fee of £75 for travel documentation, significantly less than the usual solicitor’s charge, which typically amounts to around £600.

Tireless support for those in need of help

The heart and soul of these services are embodied by the dedicated support worker, Lesia, tirelessly helping individuals with their applications and paperwork. Those seeking assistance can easily book an appointment through the We Are Digital website or simply drop by FEE.

FEE’s commitment goes beyond mere assistance; it’s about providing a sense of hope and support to those traversing challenging and uncertain times. Through their initiatives, they aim to bridge gaps, offer guidance, and ensure that those seeking refuge can find a foothold in their new lives. As the organisation continues to extend its hand to those in need, it stands as a testament to the power of community-driven support in transforming lives.