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2 - Seeking asylum in the United Kingdom

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 August 2022

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Summary

The UK asylum processat the time of writing is described in detail to illustrate more general practices and effects. Claim handling and the role of immigration detention are discussed.Legal representation is important but hard to find. Asylum claim interviews are described.The decision-making process is outlined. Tribunals, appeals, appeals rights exhaustion, and fresh claims are described.The National Referral Mechanism for people who have been trafficked is outlined.Claiming asylum has a human context.People are excluded from society.Shame can be induced, and ‘retraumatisation’ can occur. Detention without limit of time can distress and destabilise individuals who were mentally stable on arrival.Fear and uncertainty prevail.

Possible reactions of the host society are reviewed; suspicion and disbelief, and deprivation and demands as part of the ‘hostile environment’.

The key themes of medical care and the role of medical evidence are introduced.Forms of recognition as a refugee are described, and some of their practical and psychological consequences.

Type
Chapter
Information
Seeking Asylum and Mental Health
A Practical Guide for Professionals
, pp. 29 - 50
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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