The UK asylum system can be especially tough for families. When Huy and his partner Linh claimed asylum, Linh was four months pregnant.
The couple were separated by the authorities. Huy was sent to a detention centre in the south of England and Linh was moved to a hotel room in Glasgow.
As soon as he was released from detention, Huy travelled to Scotland to be with Linh, but he wasn’t allowed to join her at the hotel. Keen to be close by, Huy stayed with friends in the nearby town of Greenock.
Five months later, Linh gave birth to a healthy baby boy. This should have been a happy time for the new parents. Huy wanted to support Linh and bond with his new-born son. But strict rules meant he couldn’t even visit them in the hotel. It was extremely difficult for them both.
Ten days after giving birth, Linh and her baby were moved out of the hotel and into more suitable accommodation. Huy was finally able to spend some time with his family. But he couldn’t move in with them or stay the night in their new home.
How we helped
With the help of an asylum solicitor, our Refugee Support Service fought for Huy to be given permission to live with his family. Eight months later, he finally joined them in their accommodation in Glasgow.
Although Huy was entitled to financial support, he wasn’t receiving any money. With a new baby to provide for, the family was really struggling to make ends meet.
We contacted the Home Office to find out what had gone wrong. We helped Huy apply for emergency financial support and worked with his lawyer to chase the Home Office for updates on his case.
To ensure the family can stay together and provide for their child, we asked for Huy’s records to be updated to show that he and Linh are a couple. After a series of lengthy delays, Huy has now been added to Linh and their son’s asylum support claim.
Linh is expecting a new baby. She and Huy are finally getting the financial support they are entitled to and are relieved to be living together. They are looking forward to rebuilding their lives in Scotland as a family.
*Names have been changed
Our Refugee Support Service is here for anyone who needs our help, wherever in Scotland they are based. Find out more.
