Removing Barriers to the Power of Lived Experience

In my work advocating for refugees and asylum seekers, I've seen first-hand how powerful lived experience can be in shaping effective policies and practices. However, harnessing this power requires us to address and dismantle the many barriers that prevent those with lived experience from being heard and valued. In this blog, I share insights from my personal journey and professional experience on how we can break down these barriers and fully embrace the contributions of those with lived experience. My Journey My path into this field is informed not just by my academic and professional background, but also by my personal experiences navigating the asylum process. This dual perspective has given me a deep appreciation for the importance of integrating lived experience into our work. Lived experience is not just anecdotal; it is a critical source of knowledge that brings depth and authenticity to our understanding of complex issues. Understanding the Barriers Despite the clear value of lived experience, significant barriers often prevent it from being fully utilised. These barriers can be broadly categorised into structural, attitudinal, and practical challenges. Structural Barriers: Many organisations have rigid structures that do not accommodate the inclusion of lived experience. Hierarchical decision-making processes, limited representation in leadership roles, and a lack of opportunities for individuals with lived experience to contribute to strategic planning and policy development are common issues. Attitudinal Barriers: There is often an underlying scepticism or devaluation of knowledge derived from lived experience. Professional expertise is sometimes viewed as superior, leading to a lack of respect and recognition for those who bring experiential knowledge to the table. Practical Barriers: Practical challenges such as lack of funding, resources, and support can hinder the participation of individuals with lived experience. Language barriers, lack of access to education or training, and financial instability can all prevent meaningful engagement in advocacy work. Removing the Barriers To fully harness the power of lived experience, we must actively work to dismantle these barriers. Here are some steps we can take: Creating Inclusive Structures: Organisations must develop inclusive structures that enable meaningful participation from individuals with lived experience. This includes forming advisory boards, ensuring diverse representation in leadership roles, and incorporating lived experience into strategic planning and decision-making processes. Shifting Attitudes: We must work to shift attitudes within organisations and the broader community to value and respect the knowledge that comes from lived experience. This involves training and awareness programmes, promoting stories of lived experience in public forums, and recognising the unique contributions that experiential knowledge can bring. Providing Practical Support: Practical support is essential to enable individuals with lived experience to participate fully. This includes providing financial compensation, access to education and training, language support, and other resources that can help individuals overcome practical barriers to participation. The Impact When these barriers are removed, the impact is profound. Policies and practices become more effective and responsive to the needs of those they are designed to serve. The voices of individuals with lived experience bring authenticity and credibility, fostering greater trust and engagement within communities. Embracing lived experience can lead to more innovative and holistic approaches to problem-solving, as it integrates diverse perspectives and insights. In my own work, I have seen how the inclusion of lived experience has transformed our approach to advocacy and support for asylum seekers and refugees. By valuing and prioritising these voices, we have developed more compassionate, informed, and effective solutions. This approach not only benefits those we serve but also enriches our own understanding and capabilities as advocates and professionals. Conclusion Removing barriers to the power of lived experience is not just a matter of fairness; it is a strategic imperative for creating more effective and responsive systems. By addressing structural, attitudinal, and practical barriers, we can unlock the full potential of lived experience and build a more inclusive, equitable, and compassionate society. As someone who has navigated these challenges both personally and professionally, I am committed to continuing this work and advocating for the recognition and integration of lived experience in all areas of our work.

The UK’s Rwanda Asylum Plan: Unseen Risks and Consequences

The UK government's proposal to transfer certain asylum seekers to Rwanda has ignited intense debate and scrutiny. Having spent years working directly with asylum seekers and coordinating efforts among various organisations, it's crucial to delve into the specifics and ramifications of this policy, especially the significant issue of asylum seekers disappearing from the system and the broader implications of this occurrence. Understanding the Rwanda Asylum Policy In April 2022, the UK announced a strategy aimed at curbing illegal immigration, particularly targeting those arriving via small boats across the English Channel. According to this policy, asylum seekers entering the UK illegally after January 1, 2022, from a safe country could be relocated to Rwanda. Their asylum applications would be processed there instead of in the UK. If their claims are accepted, they could reside in Rwanda; if not, they could seek asylum in another nation or settle in Rwanda on different grounds. Crucially, they would be barred from reapplying for asylum in the UK. The government believes this plan will reduce illegal crossings and alleviate pressure on the UK’s asylum system. As of mid-May 2024, over 9,500 individuals had crossed the Channel, surpassing the numbers from previous years. Legal Obstacles and Legislative Responses The Rwanda plan has encountered significant legal hurdles. In November 2023, the UK Supreme Court deemed the policy unlawful, highlighting the risk that genuine refugees might be sent back to their home countries, where they could face persecution or harm. The court's decision also pointed to Rwanda’s questionable human rights record, which includes instances of extrajudicial killings and torture. To counter this, the UK government introduced the Rwanda Bill, which passed through Parliament despite strong opposition. This legislation aims to override parts of the Human Rights Act and other international agreements that could prevent deportations to Rwanda. Nonetheless, further legal challenges are anticipated, with many critics arguing that the bill erodes vital protections for asylum seekers. Practical and Administrative Challenges Implementing this plan involves numerous logistical and administrative difficulties. The government has indicated that flights to Rwanda will commence in the summer of 2024, with multiple flights planned each month. However, an initial attempt to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda in June 2022 was thwarted by legal challenges, and similar issues could recur. A significant concern is the disappearance of asylum seekers from the system. Of the 5,700 identified for relocation to Rwanda, contact was lost with 3,557 individuals. This raises serious doubts about the feasibility and efficiency of the plan, as many may go underground to avoid deportation. The Challenge of Disappearing Asylum Seekers The disappearance of asylum seekers from official oversight is not merely an administrative problem; it poses severe risks at various levels. Fear of deportation drives these individuals to evade the system, making them susceptible to exploitation and abuse. Economic and Social Repercussions When asylum seekers disappear, they are forced to survive outside the legal economy, often resorting to illegal work. This has several negative effects: Loss of Tax Revenue: Asylum seekers working off the books do not pay taxes, resulting in a significant loss of public revenue and increased strain on social services. Exploitation and Human Trafficking: The fear of deportation makes these individuals easy targets for human traffickers, potentially leading to forced labour without any legal protection. Restricted Access to Services: Undocumented asylum seekers are unlikely to access healthcare or education, which not only affects their well-being but also poses public health risks and hinders the development of a skilled workforce. Elevated Risks for Women Women face heightened dangers under these circumstances. Their vulnerability as undocumented individuals exacerbates several risks: Exploitation and Poverty: Women may end up in exploitative work conditions or destitution, unable to meet basic needs. Sexual Violence: The threat of deportation increases their susceptibility to sexual harassment and violence, with limited avenues for seeking help. Health Risks: Lack of access to healthcare services, including reproductive health, places them at greater risk of long-term health issues. Societal Consequences The presence of a significant undocumented population can lead to increased crime rates, social instability, and pressure on public resources. Moreover, it creates a marginalised underclass living in fear and exclusion, which is contrary to the values of a fair and just society. Financial Considerations The Rwanda plan is also financially burdensome. By the end of 2023, the UK had already paid £240 million to Rwanda, with the total expected to surpass £370 million over five years. Each relocated asylum seeker could cost up to £150,000, significantly more than processing them within the UK, raising questions about the economic rationale of the policy. Ethical and Human Rights Concerns Beyond legal and financial issues, the ethical implications are profound. Outsourcing asylum processing to a country with a problematic human rights record undermines the UK’s commitment to international human rights standards. The Supreme Court’s ruling highlighted that Rwanda might not offer adequate protection for asylum seekers, exposing them to serious risks. Conclusion The Rwanda asylum plan, while intended to address illegal immigration, inadvertently drives many asylum seekers into precarious and dangerous situations. This outcome not only questions the effectiveness of the immigration system but also has far-reaching negative impacts on the economy and society. Addressing these challenges requires a more humane and pragmatic approach to asylum and immigration policies. Policymakers must consider the unintended consequences and work towards solutions that ensure the protection and integration of asylum seekers, safeguarding their rights and enhancing societal cohesion. As an expert in this field, it is evident that a re-evaluation of the Rwanda asylum plan is necessary to prevent these severe and far-reaching consequences.

Mental Health Awareness Week 13th-19th May 2024: Understanding the Challenges Faced by Asylum Seekers and Refugee Women

Introduction: As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds, it's essential to explore the intricate relationship between physical activity and mental well-being, particularly concerning asylum seekers and refugee women. While physical activity is often lauded for its positive impact on mental health, it's vital to acknowledge the unique hurdles encountered by this vulnerable group and the adverse effects on their mental well-being. Drawing from insights provided by reputable sources such as the Mental Health Foundation, this blog aims to shed light on the mental health struggles of asylum seekers and refugee women and the necessity of addressing these challenges within the broader context of mental health awareness. Understanding the Statistics: Data from the Mental Health Foundation (https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/refugees-asylum-seekers-statistics)reveals concerning trends regarding the mental health of asylum seekers and refugee women. Research indicates that individuals seeking asylum face a significantly heightened risk of mental health issues compared to the general population. Moreover, factors like trauma, displacement, uncertainty, and social isolation amplify the mental health hurdles faced by this demographic. Refugee women, in particular, bear a disproportionate burden, with studies indicating elevated rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among this group. The Impact of Trauma and Displacement: The journey to safety for asylum seekers and refugee women is often marred by trauma and adversity, leaving enduring scars on their mental well-being. Many women have endured unspeakable horrors in their home countries, including violence, persecution, and the loss of loved ones. The experience of fleeing their homeland and seeking refuge in a foreign land can exacerbate these traumas, resulting in feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and distress. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding their asylum status and the challenges of integration into a new society can foster feelings of isolation and hopelessness, further compounding mental health struggles. Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Support: Despite the pressing need for mental health support, asylum seekers and refugee women often encounter significant barriers in accessing appropriate care and services. Language barriers, cultural stigma, lack of awareness about available resources, and fear of deportation or discrimination dissuade many women from seeking help for their mental health concerns. Furthermore, structural inequities within the healthcare system may further marginalise this vulnerable population, leaving them without the necessary support. The Call to Action: As Mental Health Awareness Week 13th – 19th May 2024, prompts us to reflect on the significance of physical activity for mental well-being, it's imperative to acknowledge that asylum seekers and refugee women face unique obstacles in accessing opportunities for physical activity and recreation. Moreover, the detrimental impact of trauma, displacement, and social isolation on their mental health underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and support services tailored to their needs. In conclusion, as we advocate for greater mental health awareness and support, it's crucial to centre the experiences of asylum seekers and refugee women in these discussions. By acknowledging their challenges and addressing systemic barriers to mental health care, we can strive towards a more inclusive and supportive society where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive mentally and physically.

Prioritising Gender-Specific Challenges: Why Focus on Women?

Focusing specifically on women within the asylum process is crucial due to the distinctive challenges, vulnerabilities, and experiences they encounter compared to men. There are multiple reasons why it is imperative to prioritise the needs of women as asylum seekers and refugees: Gender-Based Violence: Women are disproportionately impacted by gender-based violence, encompassing sexual assault, domestic violence, and trafficking, both within their countries of origin and during the asylum journey. Addressing these issues necessitates tailored support services and legal protections. Reproductive Health and Maternal Care: Women may have specific healthcare needs related to reproductive health and maternal care. Access to suitable medical services, including prenatal and postnatal care, is critical to ensuring the well-being of both women and their children. Childcare and Family Responsibilities: Women often shoulder the primary responsibility for childcare and family care, posing particular challenges during the asylum process. Limited access to childcare services and support networks can impede women's ability to navigate asylum procedures and access essential resources. Cultural and Religious Norms: Women may encounter additional barriers stemming from cultural and religious norms dictating their roles and freedoms. These norms can constrain women's mobility, decision-making autonomy, and access to education and employment opportunities. Trauma and Mental Health: Women asylum seekers and refugees may have endured traumatic events, including persecution, violence, and displacement, significantly impacting their mental health and well-being. Access to trauma-informed support services and mental health care is essential for their recovery and resilience. Legal and Protection Concerns: Women may confront gender-specific legal and protection challenges, such as discrimination, gender-based persecution, and limited access to legal representation. Ensuring access to legal aid and protection mechanisms is vital for safeguarding women's rights and ensuring their safety and security. In summary, focusing on women within the asylum process acknowledges and addresses the distinct challenges and vulnerabilities they face due to their gender. By prioritising the needs of women asylum seekers and refugees, policymakers, service providers, and advocacy organisations can devise more targeted and effective interventions that foster gender equality, empower women, and uphold their rights and dignity.

Empowering Refugee and Asylum Seeker Women through Grassroots Initiatives

In the landscape of refugee support services in the United Kingdom, grassroots organisations led by and for refugee and asylum seeker women stand as powerful agents of empowerment, advocacy, and community solidarity. These organisations, rooted in the lived experiences of their members, play a multifaceted role in addressing the unique challenges faced by refugee and asylum seeker women, advocating for policy reforms, supporting academic research, and enhancing service provision. As a researcher and women project cofounder and director intimately connected with this community, I bear witness to the transformative impact of grassroots initiatives and the imperative of amplifying their voices in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. Central to the mission of grassroots organisations is the cultivation of empowerment and solidarity among refugee and asylum seeker women. These organisations serve as sanctuaries where women find solace, understanding, and support amidst the complexities of displacement and resettlement. Through community-led initiatives, grassroots organisations foster a culture of empowerment, equipping women with the tools and resources to navigate bureaucratic systems, assert their rights, and advocate for systemic change. A significant contribution of grassroots organisations lies in their facilitation of academic research focused on the experiences and needs of refugee and asylum seeker women. Through collaborations with women’s projects and groups, these organisations serve as vital conduits between academia and the community, offering insights, facilitating access to research participants, and shaping research agendas that reflect the lived realities of women on the ground. By engaging with academic research, grassroots organisations contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersecting challenges faced by refugee and asylum seeker women, informing evidence-based policies and practices that address their unique needs. Grassroots organisations also serve as potent advocates for policy and practice reforms that better serve the needs of refugee and asylum-seeking women. Through grassroots advocacy campaigns, community mobilisation efforts, and strategic partnerships with policymakers and service providers, these organisations amplify the voices of women, ensuring that their perspectives are heard and their rights are upheld. By advocating for systemic changes in areas such as access to healthcare, housing, education, and employment, grassroots organisations drive transformative reforms that promote gender equity and social justice. Furthermore, grassroots organisations play a critical role in enhancing the provision of services to refugee and asylum seeker women. By offering culturally sensitive and community-led support services, such as language classes, childcare assistance, and trauma-informed counselling, these organisations address gaps in mainstream service provision and meet the diverse and complex needs of women from diverse cultural backgrounds. As trusted intermediaries between service users and providers, grassroots organisations bridge linguistic and cultural barriers, ensuring that services are accessible, relevant, and responsive to the lived experiences of women. While grassroots organisations encounter challenges such as limited funding, capacity constraints, and institutional barriers, they also present significant opportunities for positive change. By harnessing the collective power of women's voices, fostering networks of solidarity, and leveraging community resources, these organisations have the potential to drive transformative change in the lives of refugee and asylum seeker women and their communities. In conclusion, grassroots initiatives led by and for refugee and asylum seeker women are indispensable components of the refugee support sector, fostering empowerment, advocacy, and community resilience. As we navigate the dynamic landscape of refugee support services in the UK, it is imperative that we recognise and support the vital contributions of these organisations. By investing in grassroots initiatives, amplifying women's voices, and cantering their perspectives in policy and practice, we can cultivate a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable society where all women, regardless of their immigration status, can thrive and realise their potential.

Experts by Experience: Transforming Service Provision for Asylum Seekers and Refugees

Individuals with lived experiences have made invaluable contributions to shaping service provision for asylum seekers and refugees in the UK. Over recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the importance of incorporating the insights of these experts into service delivery and policy development. Traditionally, the term "expert" has been associated with formal qualifications and training. However, the concept of "experts by experience" acknowledges the expertise gained through personal journeys and the challenges faced by individuals within the asylum system. Experts by Experience are individuals who possess first-hand knowledge of the complexities of the asylum process. Their insights and knowledge, acquired through personal experiences rather than formal qualifications, offer a unique and authentic perspective on the realities of seeking refuge in the United Kingdom. This article delves into the role of experts by experience in enhancing service delivery and shaping policy for asylum seekers and refugees. It explores how their involvement contributes to cultural competence, improves access to services, and informs policy decisions. The Impact of Experts by Experience on Service Delivery Enhancing Cultural Competence: Experts by Experience play a crucial role in enhancing the cultural competence of service providers by offering insights into the diverse backgrounds, languages, and traditions of asylum seekers and refugees. Their feedback enables professionals to better understand and respect the cultural nuances of their clients, leading to more effective and culturally sensitive service provision. Improving Access to Services: By sharing their experiences navigating the asylum system, Experts by Experience highlight barriers to accessing services and advocate for solutions to address these challenges. Their involvement leads to the development of more accessible and inclusive support mechanisms for asylum seekers and refugees. Tailoring Services to Specific Needs: Experts by Experience provide valuable insights into the unique needs and preferences of asylum seekers and refugees, allowing service providers to tailor their offerings accordingly. This results in more targeted and impactful interventions that address the specific challenges faced by this community. Promoting Trust and Empathy: The presence of Experts by Experience fosters trust and empathy between service providers and their clients. Their shared experiences create a sense of solidarity and understanding, facilitating more meaningful and respectful interactions. The Influence of Experts by Experience on Policy Development Advocating for Policy Reforms: Experts by Experience advocate for policy reforms that address systemic challenges and improve the asylum process. Their first-hand experiences inform policy debates and drive effective reform initiatives aimed at enhancing the rights and protections of asylum seekers and refugees. Ensuring Inclusion and Representation: Experts by Experience actively participate in policy-making processes to ensure that the voices of asylum seekers and refugees are heard and represented. Their input helps policymakers understand the real-world impact of proposed policies, leading to more inclusive and equitable decision-making. Shaping Policy Implementation: Experts by Experience contribute to the implementation of policies by providing insights into their practical implications and suggesting changes based on their experiences. Their collaboration ensures that policies are effectively implemented and responsive to the needs of asylum seekers and refugees. Challenges and Limitations of Involving Experts by Experience Potential Bias and Subjectivity: One challenge of involving Experts by Experience is the potential for bias or subjectivity in their perspectives. While their lived experiences are invaluable, it is essential to consider multiple viewpoints and make decisions based on a combination of evidence-based research and professional expertise. Balancing Personal Experiences with Professional Perspectives: Experts by Experience must strike a balance between sharing personal experiences and considering broader professional perspectives. While their insights are essential, it is crucial to supplement them with evidence-based research and professional knowledge to ensure a comprehensive and well-rounded approach. Addressing Power Dynamics and Tokenism: Finally, there is a need to address power dynamics and tokenism when involving Experts by Experience in decision-making processes. It is essential to create inclusive and supportive environments where their views are genuinely respected, and their contributions are taken seriously. In conclusion, the involvement of Experts by Experience is critical in improving services and policies for asylum seekers and refugees in the United Kingdom. By drawing on their unique perspectives and insights, we can develop more inclusive, responsive, and empathetic support systems that meet the needs of this vulnerable population.

Empowering Voices: Advocating for Genuine Inclusion of Experts by Experience (EbE) in Leadership Roles

In today's fast-changing world of service provision for asylum seekers and refugees in the United Kingdom, the voices of those with first-hand knowledge are more important than ever. These Experts by Experience contribute a level of experience and insight that cannot be obtained by formal qualifications alone. Despite the hyperbole around the significance of their efforts, the reality is stark: hurdles continue, preventing many from advancing to top roles in the sector. It is time to face these obstacles front on and argue for the actual inclusion of Experts by Experience in leadership positions. While sectors may emphasise the importance of their views and perspectives, their actions frequently fall short of giving genuine possibilities for progress. Instead, low-wage or part-time jobs are routinely advertised, continuing a cycle of marginalisation and tokenism. The truth is that the knowledge gained via personal experience is important and irreplaceable. This unique perspective cannot be taught in a classroom or through regular educational methods. Despite this, many utilise reasons such as a preference for native speakers or those with past job experience in the UK to dismiss persons with lived experience. This is more than just a problem of fairness; it is also about efficacy. Research has consistently demonstrated that organisations benefit tremendously from diverse leadership teams that reflect the populations they serve. By removing Experts by Experience from leadership positions, we miss out on the opportunity to create more responsive, sympathetic, and effective support systems for asylum seekers and refugees. It's time to confront the current quo and demand meaningful change. It's time to value lived experience and expertise over arbitrary criteria that simply serve to perpetuate the status quo. It is time to realise that leadership is defined not only by official qualifications or professional experience, but also by the ability to empathise, understand, and advocate for those in most need. So let us work together as a sector to ensure genuine inclusion and empowerment of Experts by Experience. Let us develop leadership opportunities that are accessible, equitable, and authentically representative of the communities we serve. Let us use the power of lived experience to spark positive change and create a more just and compassionate society for all.

Voices of Resilience

Welcome to Voices of Resilience! I'm Dr. Ibtissam Al-Farah, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you as we navigate the complexities of the asylum system and advocate for meaningful change. As a lived experience advocate I bring a unique perspective to the table. With significant work experience in both paid and voluntary roles within this sector, I've had the opportunity to witness firsthand the challenges and triumphs of refugee and asylum seekers' journeys. Through this blog, I aim to share my insights, commentary, and experiences on a wide range of topics, including policies, strategies, and the sectors working directly with and for refugee and asylum seekers. I'm committed to advocating for change, challenging unjust policies, and amplifying the voices of those often unheard. From critical analysis of existing policies to reviews of sector practices, I'll use my insider and outsider perspective to offer constructive criticism and drive positive change. Additionally, I'll shed light on complicated terms and concepts within the sector, such as co-production and shifting power, sharing my experiences and insights to demystify these concepts and empower others to navigate them effectively. Join me on this journey as we celebrate the resilience of asylum seekers and refugee women, challenge unjust policies and practices, and work towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.