Citizens Advice urges EU Nationals in Mid Sussex to check status

It has launched its EU settlement project, funded by Mid Sussex District Council, to remind EU nationals to check they have applied for settled status and to support those who want or need to make their application.

The Home Office scheme allows EU Nationals who have been living and working in the UK to continue working and accessing support after December 31, 2020, like carers help.

Maureen Pasmore, caseworker, said: “We have had calls from people who have been living in the UK for over 20 years and thought it didn’t apply to them.

“People have been shocked to find out that they could have problems with working, renting and losing access to support options including the NHS after December 2020 if they don’t make an application.”

While many people have already applied, Citizens Advice said there are concerns that people who do not have access to the internet or who may have difficulty proving their address have not yet applied. 

Some people may also find they have difficulty finding the documents, refused or be given the wrong status.

And some have put off applying because they did not think they need to or because they were focusing on the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Emma Cross, CEO, said: “The recent experiences of Covid-19 have shown how important it is to come together as a community and support one another. 

“This project will make sure all of our community members who have been living and working in the UK can continue to do that without disruption to their work or other rights. 

“During these uncertain times, it’s essential people have everything in place so we can rebuild our community together to recover from Covid-19.” 

The project is expected to run until the end of March 2021, Citizens Advice said, and will include working with employers and service providers to ensure Mid Sussex residents do not lose out.

For more information or support, please call 0344 477 1171 or email your contact details and a caseworker will contact you back: [email protected]

Visit: www.advicewestsussex.org.uk/i-need-help/eu-settlement-scheme-mid-sussex-project.