Southend care leaver local offer

If you are over 16 and have come to the UK to seek asylum

If you came to the UK without a parent or carer and are in the care of Southend-on-Sea City Council, we are here to support you.

Your social worker, personal advisor and solicitor will help you understand the asylum process.

Together, we will create a triple plan to help you prepare for the future.

Your triple plan

Your plan will include:

  1. While you wait for a final decision about your asylum claim.
  2. If you are allowed to stay in the UK.
  3. If you cannot stay in the UK.

This helps you understand your options and the support available.

How we can help

We can support you with:

  • money to buy clothes when you arrive, if you need it
  • religious items, such as a prayer mat, Quran or Bible
  • information about local places of worship and cultural shops
  • a £50 festival payment if you are aged 16 or 17 and live in supported accommodation
  • a buddy who may speak your language if you live in Southend
  • weekly Culture Café sessions where you can meet other young people
  • safe accommodation while your asylum claim is being decided
  • finding a solicitor to support your asylum claim, if you need help
  • train tickets to attend solicitor or Home Office appointments
  • help to start education, including English (ESOL) classes
  • a weekly allowance if you cannot claim other financial support
  • translation or interpreting services if you need them
  • workshops to help you understand the immigration and asylum process
  • one-to-one support from a worker with experience in asylum and immigration

If you are allowed to stay in the UK

We will help you:

  • apply for your eVisa
  • apply for benefits if you are entitled to this
  • apply for a travel document, if you are eligible
  • find somewhere for you to live
  • plan for your future in the UK

If you decide to return to your home country

If you would like information about returning to your home country voluntarily, we can help you find the right advice and support.

Speak to your personal advisor if you have any questions or need help at any stage of your asylum journey.

Other services that can help you

We will talk to you about these services and help you contact them.

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