Advice for individuals about assisted and voluntary return programmes
There can be many factors bearing on the decision by a refugee or asylum seeker whether to return permanently to the country of origin. Some may require information about conditions in the country of origin, or about services in the UK, or help available from the assisted return programmes.
The following organisations work as implementing partners of IOM and provide specialist and confidential, advice, information and informal counselling to refugees and asylum seekers who are considering return to their country of origin.
Individuals should also seek advice from their legal representatives or advisers prior to making an application to a return programme as it may affect their application or right to stay in the UK.
Contacting family members abroad
Some refugees and asylum seekers may have lost contact with family members not in the UK. The International Tracing and Message Service of the British Red Cross can help families separated through conflict, upheaval or natural disaster:
- Tracing service – through the International Committee of the Red Cross and through the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, enquiries can be made to find relatives
- Message service – help to exchange family news or re-establish contact with family
It can also provide certification of detention for those people who were visited by the International Committee of the Red Cross whilst imprisoned. All these services are free.
Contact local British Red Cross office
Contact details at www.redcross.org.uk or your local library or in your local telephone directory under ‘British Red Cross’.
Other useful sources of advice and information
