If you’ve been forced to leave your home country because of persecution, conflict, or the threat of serious harm, you deserve to be heard with dignity and respect. At IAUK Manchester, we understand the courage it takes to seek protection, and we’re here to walk alongside you through every step of the process.
Our team provides sensitive, trauma-informed support to asylum seekers and those making human rights claims. We listen carefully to your story, explain your options in clear and simple language, and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
If you are unable to return to your home country because you fear persecution, you may be eligible to claim asylum in the UK. The UK has a long tradition of providing refuge to those in need, and the law protects people who face genuine danger.
There are two main forms of protection:
Granted when you face persecution because of your race, religion, nationality, political beliefs, or membership of a particular social group. Provides 5 years’ leave to remain, with a route to settlement.
Granted when you face a real risk of serious harm — such as the death penalty, torture, or indiscriminate violence from armed conflict — but don’t meet the refugee definition. Also provides leave to remain.
We help you gather the evidence needed to support your claim, prepare you for your asylum interview, and represent you if your case goes to the Tribunal.
Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights provides absolute protection against torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This means the UK cannot remove you to a country where you would face such treatment — regardless of your immigration history.
Article 3 claims often arise in cases involving serious medical conditions, where removal would result in a significant reduction in life expectancy or quality of life, or where country conditions pose a genuine risk of harm.
Article 8 protects your right to respect for your private and family life. If removing you from the UK would break up your family or disrupt a private life you’ve built here over many years, you may have a strong claim to remain.
We help clients demonstrate the strength of their family ties, the best interests of any children involved, and the disproportionate impact that removal would have. Every family’s situation is unique, and we take the time to understand yours fully.
When you come to see us, please bring whatever documents you have — but don’t worry if you don’t have everything. We can work with what you have and help you obtain what’s needed.
When you come to see us, please bring whatever documents you have — but don’t worry if you don’t have everything. We can work with what you have and help you obtain what’s needed.
Refugee status is granted if you face persecution because of your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a social group. Humanitarian protection is granted when you face a real risk of serious harm (such as the death penalty, torture, or armed conflict) but don’t meet the refugee definition. Both give you permission to stay in the UK.
Timescales vary considerably. The Home Office aims to make initial decisions within 6 months, but many cases take longer, especially if further evidence is needed. We work to ensure your case is as strong as possible from the outset to avoid unnecessary delays.
You cannot normally work during the first 12 months. If your claim has been outstanding for more than 12 months through no fault of your own, you can apply for permission to work in jobs on the Shortage Occupation List.
If you are destitute, you can apply for asylum support, which includes accommodation and a weekly allowance. We can help you access this support and connect you with local organisations that provide additional assistance.
If you need protection, we’re here to help. Book a confidential consultation with one of our experienced advisers.
