Introduction
This section will give you information about the Home Office Windrush Scheme, and help you decide if you need any legal advice or support from Luton Law Centre to make your application.
What is the Windrush Scheme
The Windrush Scheme is aimed at individuals who came to the UK from the Commonwealth as children following the Second World War, and whose rights were guaranteed in the Immigration Act of 1971. They are known now as the Windrush Generation.
However, under immigration laws brought in since that time, this group of people may have found themselves having to prove continuous residence in the UK since 1973 to access their rights. These rights include healthcare, accommodation, benefits and employment. It is almost impossible to prove this without the detailed records required by newer legislation.
On 30th May 2018, the Government introduced the Windrush Scheme to help members of the Windrush Generation get the documents they need.
What Has Changed At The Home Office?
On 16 April 2018, the Home Secretary established a Taskforce to make immediate arrangements to help those who needed it. This included setting up a helpline to get in touch with the Home Office. The helpline number is 0800 678 1925.
On 30th May 2018, the Windrush Scheme went live. It uses a separate application form and guidance to make it easier for people to access it and to understand what is on offer.
Those applying under this Scheme may be contacted by the Taskforce if further information is needed. No application will be refused without giving you the opportunity to provide more information. The Taskforce will help people to navigate the immigration system and will take a sympathetic and proactive approach when resolving applications.
No information provided in an application under the Windrush Scheme will be passed on to Immigration Enforcement.
How to Apply to the Windrush Scheme
An application under the Windrush Scheme must be made on the right form.
For applicants living in the UK, the form can be downloaded here.
For applicants living outside the UK, an online application can be made here.
Application fee
There is no fee to the Home Office for an application made under the Windrush Scheme.
Do I Need Legal Support to Make a Windrush Scheme Application?
You may not need any additional advice or support to make an application under the Windrush Scheme.
The criteria are very clear and the process may be quite simple.
In addition, there is no fee to pay to the Home Office, so you will not be out of pocket if you are turned down.
You might need the additional support Luton Law Centre can provide if:
- You are not certain which documents can prove your arrival in the UK or time spent in the UK
- You want some help in choosing the best documents to prove your eligibility
- You want some help in completing sections 5, 6 or 7 of the Windrush Scheme form
Please call our AdviceLine for assistance.
Downloads
Click here to get the full FactSheet from the Home Office
Click here to get the Windrush Scheme Application Form from the Home Office