What is the Asylum Guides programme?
Asylum Guides is a national programme aimed at organisations working with asylum seekers. Our toolkits enable volunteers to meet with clients and help them to navigate their asylum journey.
Why was the Asylum Guides national programme set up?
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.
What does an Asylum Guide do?
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.
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Before the session, what I knew about the asylum process was like a small door, but after the session it became a great gate through which I want to lead others like me.
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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.
A national movement
Asylum Guides collaborates with a organisations across the UK. We provide guidance, toolkits and knowledge sharing. Our local partners deliver front-line support tailored to local needs. Please send us an email if you'd like to find out more.
Growth and Impact in 2019
Asylum Guides is a new programme getting traction across the UK. Asylum Guide volunteers supported over 800 people in 2019!
39
Number of nationalities supported
29
Average age of client supported
9
Cities where Asylum Guides is available
Increased understanding via Asylum Guides
'Do you understand what will happen to you in your asylum claim?'*
2.1 out of 5
Before
4 out of 5
After
Do you understand what a solicitor does?
1.9 out of 5
Before
4.1 out of 5
After
* Clients attending an Asylum Guide group session were asked to rate how they feel out of 5 before and after the session.
How to run an Asylum Guides programme
1. Set up
Set up an Asylum Guides programme internally
2. Recruitment
Advertise and recruit suitable volunteer Asylum Guides
3. Training
Train volunteers to be great Asylum Guides
4. Meetings
Support Asylum Guides to meet asylum seekers
Asylum Guides is developed by Refugee Action
Have a question? Email asylumguides@refugee-action.org.uk
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