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We believe every person seeking asylum should be supported to navigate the asylum system.
Asylum Guides are trained volunteers who provide that support.
Asylum Guides is a programme aimed at organisations working with people seeking asylum. Our toolkits and resources enable volunteer Guides to meet with and help clients to understand the asylum process.
The programme emerged from Refugee Action's access to justice work, rooted in the principles of Early Action. It supports people early in their asylum journey to address the causes of crisis or prevent barriers to justice. Since 2016, we've delivered programmes across the UK. Here's a case study of our work with Birmingham's Brushstrokes.
Asylum Guides are trained volunteers, matched up with asylum seekers to provide legal information about the asylum process. Over the course of a few meetings, they explain the asylum system in a way that is accessible and easy to understand.
Find out what it's like to be an Asylum Guide with Ericky and Estelle as they share their stories.
"Before I was matched with the Asylum Guide, I had no information about the asylum process in the UK. But now I am very confident and have got so much information… "
"I hope many people can get the same help in the future. Many people misunderstand the process, so it would be very good for them to have the same support. Thank you again."
Asylum Guides is a collaborative programme. We partner with organisations across the UK and provide guidance, toolkits and knowledge sharing. Our partners deliver front-line support tailored to local needs. Please send us an email if you'd like to find out more.
Asylum Guide volunteers supported over 465 people over 898 meeting between June 2020 and June 2021.
Over the last 12 months’, our data showed the following:
When asked, 'how confident do you feel about your knowledge of the asylum process?', clients rated their confidence an average 2.8 out of 5 at their first Asylum Guide meeting. After 3 or more meetings, clients rated this an average of 4.2 out of 5.
Before
After
When asked, 'how prepared do you feel for the next stage in the asylum process?', clients rated their preparedness an average 3 out of 5. After 3 or more meetings clients rated this 4.5 out of 5.
Before
After
Asylum Guides is developed by Refugee Action.
Any questions? Email us.