Why We Exist

About us

Our vision is a society that fully respects the rights and dignity of asylum seekers and refugees, seeking justice and a flourishing life for all.

Our mission is to offer personally sensitive support (legal, social, practical, emotional) to refugees and asylum seekers as they seek to move on with their lives in the U.K.

The Cotton Tree Trust was founded in October 2016 to provide support and assistance to refugees and asylum seekers in the United Kingdom. Charities and legal firms seeking to provide immigration advice and support to refugees and asylum seekers are seriously overstretched, with many more demands for assistance than they can possibly meet. Cuts to legal aid funding and the merits test have exacerbated this situation. Many vulnerable asylum seekers who have a strong and honest case are at risk of being detained or deported. Some have already entrusted their savings to unscrupulous or unqualified advisers in exchange for a very poor service. Despite their good intentions, most organisations don’t have the time required to explore their clients’ cases.

We offer relaxed time, professional expertise and a welcoming community. We try to guide our members beyond their traumatic histories and help them to rebuild their lives.