Where to get Information and Access Services

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People settling in the UK need help and support with housing, health care, school and colleges, money and work. Different types of organisation such as national government, local government and voluntary organisations run these services.

.: National government.

The National government services, sometimes-called central government services reports to the department of the UK government. For example, the department of Health through a network of local health authorities runs the National Health Service.

.: Local government.

Local government services report to the local Authority, which is called the local council. They are divided into departments, including housing, education and social services. Social services provide support for children in need and other special groups. These services may be organised differently in each local area but must reach national standards. The local authority should be able to offer advice and information in different languages to those who might need it free of charge.

.: Voluntary agencies.

Voluntary agencies are not run by the national or local government or for any profit making business. They are independent service providers and they are sometimes called non-governmental-organisation. There are many such organisations in the UK with different services, they offer help to people who are sometimes in desperate need offer advice and practical help in lots of ways.

.: Where to get advice.

There are many organisations that offer free and confidential advice and information. Its all ways best to have an appointment by telephone before going there so that you will be able to take good advantage to speak to an advisor. Remember to take along important document or letters that you are seeking advice from. You should not send document by post unless you are told to do so. Always use recorded delivery when sending important document. Agencies like the Welsh Refugee Council, One Stop Service, Displace People in Action and the national network of Citizen Advice Bureau are appropriate for any Asylum seekers or Refugees to seek advice from. There maybe other advice agencies in your local area such as welfare right centres or drop-in centres. Law centres can provide Legal advice for people on low income.

.: One-stop shops.

Few net works of support services called one-stop shops is being set up to help asylum seekers and refugees who are dispersed to different parts of the country. If you are been status, they will also help to explain to you your right and entitlements.

.: Interpreters

If you cannot speak English or you do understand a little and you are been called for an interview, local and government organisations should provide an interpreter for you to make sure you received the service you need. If you have a relative or a friend who speaks good English, it may help to take them along to avoid delays or cancellations. But if you are not happy with the service provided by an interpreter for any reason, you should make it know to the agency or organisation.