The UK is the only country in Europe where it is permitted to hold people in immigration detention for an indefinite amount of time. People are held in immigration removal centres, or in prison, without being told when they will be released. This is not decided on by the courts, but rather by civil servants under the direction of the Home Secretary. Conditions are often very bleak, and there have been numerous instances of failings in the system that have left people suffering terribly. For those who have come to the UK to seek sanctuary, the conditions inside immigration removal centres can add further trauma and suffering on top of that which they have experienced in their home country, and on the journey to the UK. For those who have been in the UK the majority of their lives, and who have lost their leave to remain, immigration detention can make them feel alien in the country that they call home.

The Post-Detention Support Project seeks to assist those who have been released from indefinite immigration detention, and who have no leave to remain in the UK. We advise them on their entitlements, and ensure that they are able to access them, helping solve any problems the clients may encounter. The project helps to get set up in the area to which they are dispersed, and start to rebuild their lives. 

Casework volunteers will provide signposting to organisations and refer clients where appropriate. We encourage creative, empowering solutions to client’s well-being concerns. Volunteers will also engage with clients during welfare calls, to give clients the space to explore their feelings.

Casework volunteers are required to attend two days of training, in which they will learn about the immigration system, as well as the workings of the detention estate, and the support to which people on immigration bail are entitled. Training will also cover the ways in which vulnerable callers can be supported, and caseworkers can provide empathetic, active-listening. All of the casework that a volunteer will be expected to do will be explained.

Please find the full role description for Casework volunteers, information how to apply and the application form below:
Casework Volunteers Role Description and how to apply
Application Form

Volunteers will be mentored by experienced staff in their first shifts, and will be supervised by professional caseworkers at all times.

We ask for a minimum commitment of 1 3-hour shift a week, for at least 3 months. Volunteering will take place in the Dover office.

Deadline to apply – Fri 13th of September