years. One who had not seen his mother and siblings for 12 years, stated: “we’ve spoken over the phone and video calls but it’s not the same connection as what would’ve been had we been together all the time.” Despite these difficulties, many interviewees had made friends in the UK or had extended family who could provide them with financial and emotional support. However, all interviewees highlighted that having the right to work or better access to educational programmes would transform their lives, as they would be able to contribute to society. They would also be at less risk from exploitation. Many seemed conscious of having to rely on the Government or others for support and they were concerned by public narratives that they were only in the UK to abuse the welfare and asylum systems. The interviewees also all noted how a lack of identity made them feel less than human and as if they had no sense of belonging. The interviewees wanted people to spend a day in their shoes and imagine the sense of hopelessness, which they have felt much of their lives. – Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees For the interviewees of this study, consideration of statelessness as a protection issue by UK authorities would mean that there would be: a) better access to the SDP through legal aid; and b) better decision making in the SDP, with mandatory interviews. It would also mean ensuring that decisions are made within a reasonable time frame and providing them with appropriate safeguards during the procedure such as access to financial support or the right to work. Indeed, this perspective is in line with international human rights standards and guidance on the 1954 Convention, which emphasise State obligations to recognise and protect the human rights of stateless persons and ultimately end their statelessness. Overall, for all those interviewed, it was important that the UK authorities see the SDP as a way to protect them and keep them safe. They all raised the human rights challenges they have faced as a result of their precarious status. Those we spoke to experienced exploitation, detention and homelessness whilst in the Those who had received statelessness leave were looking forward to being able to work and to becoming financially independent. They were optimistic about the future and were eager to advocate for more understanding in the UK of the many facets of statelessness and better protection of the people who experience this often-devastating situation. ‘Statelessness can lead to a devastating cycle of deprivation and vulnerability.’ 23 UK. One explained that the UK’s procedures should uphold their human rights and even quoted Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Stateless person born in Palestine who came to the UK in 2010 © UNHCR/Greg Constantine. 23 23