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LDAN update – July 2007

Since its first meeting in January 2007, the London Destitution Advice Network (LDAN) has met four times.  Each meeting was attended by over 15 advice agencies and we had lively discussions on various asylum support issues. 

In particular, the members benefited from peer-to-peer presentations on the issue of access to community care from the local authority for those refused asylum seekers with care needs. 

The LDAN conducted a consultation survey in June 2007 to decide its future.  Having looked at the result of the survey, the members decided to seek funding over summer in order to continue and strengthen the Network.  Until now, the LDAN has been facilitated by the ASAP with other members taking responsibility for chairng and minute taking. 

The LDAN will meet again in September 2007.  If your organisation is interested in attending or want to receive more information about the Network, please contact Eiri Ohtani at Eiri@asaproject.org.uk.”

London Destitution Advice Network

A recent report (The Destitution Trap by Refugee Action, Nov 06) suggests that many "failed" asylum seekers are still not getting accurate and up-to-date information about their support entitlements.

ASAP believes that existing resources and expertise in the advice sector can be used more effectively to address this issue. We are therefore launching the London Destitution Advice Network for London based advice agencies in January 2007.

The Network aims to reduce the destitution of "failed" asylum seekers in London who are entitled to receive support either from BIA or the local authorities. By building up an effective referral system and sharing good practice and information, the Network hopes to improve the quality and quantity of destitution advice for "failed" asylum seekers. So far 15 organisations have expressed their interest in attending the first Network meeting. We currently meet monthly in central London.

If you would like to know more about the Network or would like to participate, please contact Eiri Ohtani, ASAP Co-ordinator, on 020 8686 1888 or Eiri@asaproject.org.uk

Click here to download the draft terms of reference.