RECOMMENDATIONS UNHCR seeks to ensure that the human rights of stateless persons in the UK are protected and that they can live their lives in dignity and security. Statelessness leave is not simply an immigration status, but a way to ensure that a stateless person’s basic human rights are protected. In light of the experiences and perspectives shared by the interviewees in this study, UNHCR makes the below recommendations to the UK Government. Many of these recommendations have been highlighted in UNHCR’s audit, and UNHCR urges the Home Office to consider these recommendations together with the audit. UNHCR recommends that: • The Home Office should approach statelessness as a protection issue and statelessness leave as a protection route in the UK. • Legal aid should be introduced in England and Wales for applications for statelessness leave. This would ensure that applicants not only have access to the SDP but should also reduce the number of applications made without appropriate supporting evidence and help ensure fewer unmeritorious applications. • A stateless determination interview should be mandatory in all cases except where the Home Office grants leave to remain without the need for an interview. This would ensure that all statelessness leave applicants are given an opportunity for their voice to be heard and to address any issues that may result in adverse credibility findings. • The Home Office should consider implementing policies that would ensure that most decisions are made within six months, and up to 12 months in exceptional circumstances. • The Home Office should ensure that all statelessness leave applicants can access adequate support and accommodation whilst awaiting a decision on their application. • The Home Office should consider providing applicants in the SDP with permission to work in the UK after their application has been outstanding for a period of 12 months or longer. • The Home Office should take measures to safeguard applicants for statelessness leave where there are indicators of mental health concerns. This should include arranging free, confidential counselling where appropriate. Image: Statelessness Leave Applicant photographed in London. © UNHCR/Katie Barlow. 24 24