Asylum seekers blocked from working in the UK could make a net contribution of £42m to the economy if restrictive rules were lifted, in a move that would have overwhelming public support, a new coalition group has said. People seeking asylum in the UK are only allowed to work if they have been waiting on a claim for 12 months or more and they can fill a role on the shortage occupation list, which includes positions such as classical ballet dancers and geophysicists. This means people are essentially banned from working while they wait months, and often years, for a decision on their claim, living on the £5.39 a day the government provides. The Lift the Ban coalition, made up of 80 organisati
Mohammad Elwani does not stop amazing us with his excellent school reports. He is now learning the skills of debate with a mentor. He has made a presentation on Crime and Violence in the U.K. at the conclusion of his summer school, organised jointly by BRASS and the Council Early Help Professional, Mr Ben Scott. Mohammad's family is supported by BRASS working with Bedfordshire Borough Council under the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme (SVPRS).
Nadia Laribi (BRASS), Julian Pohill (the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire), Brian Cunningham (BRASS) We were pleased to welcome Julian Pohill, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, to BRASS on 5th September. Julian was interested in how the asylum system worked, where our clients came from and how BRASS was able to help. He said he would be glad to direct any asylum seekers he came across to BRASS. He mentioned former High Sheriff, Debbie Inskip, who also visited us and has attended many BRASS events since, who directed him to us. The High Sheriff said he would like to help BRASS in the future where he can.
