Devendra Kumar
Campaigners have accused the British government of issuing notices to asylum seekers without legal representation that imply a threat of homelessness if they do not move onto the Bibby Stockholm barge. The charity Care4Calais has expressed serious concerns about the language used in the notices, which suggest that the move is mandatory, when in fact asylum seekers are entitled to challenge the decision and seek legal representation.
According to Steve Smith, chief executive of Care4Calais, “Every asylum seeker who receives a Bibby Stockholm letter has the right to challenge it, and there are multiple reasons for them to do so” including concerns about mental and physical health, disability, and access to justice in the UK.
The charity claims that the government is trying to target asylum seekers who have been unable to secure legal representation, which is a fundamental right, and is instead forcing them onto the barge without a choice. Smith stated that “it is really clear that there are issues with Bibby Stockholm letters, which are being issued by the government, and this fundamental right” to access justice is being compromised. Care4Calais is taking steps to protect the rights of asylum seekers by referring clients to solicitors to challenge their notices and is seeking its own legal advice on the government’s process.
Letters issued by the Home Office to asylum seekers do not mention legal rights or access to representation, instead providing minimal information and a deadline for boarding the barge. The charity is also concerned that the language used in the letters implies a threat of homelessness if asylum seekers do not comply, which could lead to a range of negative consequences, including mental health issues, physical harm, and even further destitution. Care4Calais is urging all asylum seekers who receive a Bibby Stockholm notice to seek legal advice, highlighting the importance of protecting their rights and challenging what they deem to be an arbitrary and unjust decision.