The legal & casework branch

A narrow escape

Benjamin is from one of the many African countries where homosexuality is punished by imprisonment. He came to London with a troupe of actors, and a fellow actor found him kissing another man. Benjamin was turned out of his hotel and had his passport and travel documents confiscated by the troupe’s manager, who said he would report Benjamin to the authorities on their return.

Benjamin was found on the street and referred to us. We spent many hours with him, calming his fears, and downloaded information that confirmed what he had told us about the troupe’s performing schedule and Benjamin’s membership of the troupe. We worked with him on his application for asylum and he was then sent to Home Office accommodation in a remote part of England where there are no solicitors dealing with asylum claims. We found a solicitor about 40 miles from where he was placed, paid for the necessary transport, and worked alongside them both to prepare the strongest statement possible. We also arranged for the Home Office to provide him with tickets so that he could travel to his substantive interview.

After an initial rejection, we supported Benjamin’s appeal and he obtained the right to remain. We helped him to get a bank account and prepare a CV, then found him temporary accommodation with the YMCA.  He was able to find himself a job and is now looking to improve his education.