In the case of those who are seeking leave to remain as asylum seekers, they will be expected to prove that they are likely to suffer significant risk if they return to their countries of origin. In some cases, this risk can be assessed on psychological grounds, as in the case of those who do not feel safe returning home for a range of reasons (for example, if they are homosexual and anticipate an unsafe environment in their home country, or if they will suffer intimidation and threats because of their political or ethnic background, and so on).
A strong case to remain can be made for those who have lived in the UK for many years, and whose family and friendship networks are UK-based. People in this situation are likely to be vulnerable to problems such as depression and chronic stress if they are forced to return to a country where they no longer know anyone or enjoy such support, and where formal psychological support, such as offered by the NHS, may be minimal or non-existent.
People with existing mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety may be allowed to stay when they cannot access the help they need elsewhere, as are those who are at elevated risk of experiencing a mental health crisis if forced to leave. For example, migrants who have had traumatic events in their home countries (as often occurs in situations such as war or famine) are likely to experience additional risk to their emotional well-being if they return. Women who fear that they are likely to experience domestic violence, forced marriage, or rape if they are forced to return to their country of origin can request leave to stay on these grounds, as can parents whose children have been granted the right to remain, on the grounds of fostering and supporting the health and well-being of both the child and the parent.
Diverse forms of mental illness, such as schizophrenia, can be considered grounds to stay when the individual’s country of origin has no system in place to provide appropriate healthcare, while many people with such conditions can function well in society with the right support, as is available in the UK.
Private Therapy Clinic has extensive experience in writing psychological reports, in cooperation with solicitors for individuals seeking leave to remain in the UK for a variety of reasons, to ensure that their situation is represented in an unbiased, neutral, and informed fashion. A properly written report can make all the difference.