In 2002, following immense pressure, the
government introduced the 'domestic
violence rule' in immigration law, which
states that if a person married or living with
a settled partner can provide specific
evidence to demonstrate that she/he is a
victim of domestic violence and meet other
conditions, she/he can remain in the UK
indefinitely. But for a significant number of
women, the existence of the 'no recourse
to public funds' requirement in immigration
and welfare law, prevents them from
making use of the domestic violence rule
because they cannot access safe housing
or benefits to escape domestic violence.
The result is that they are faced with a
stark choice, leave and face destitution or
stay and risk their lives.
The 'no recourse' requirement bars anyone
entering the UK on the basis of marriage
from relying on public housing or benefits
until their immigration position is
regularised. This forces women into
positions of economic dependency on the
settled spouse or partner. The result is
sheer desperation on the part of the
individual and their advisors.
Southall Black Sisters
for more information to support the campaign to abolish no recourse to public funds check out
southallblacksisters@btconnect.com
www.southallblacksisters.org.uk
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