In a move that could significantly impact thousands of families, the UK government is considering measures that would force migrant workers to forfeit essential in-work benefits or face an extended wait for settled status. Under proposals put forth by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the current 10-year path to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) could stretch to 20 years for those who have accessed public funds, a shift that has raised alarm among charities and community advocates.
The Proposed Changes and Their Consequences
Currently, over 200,000 individuals living legally in the UK are navigating the 10-year route to settled status, which requires them to renew their visas every 30 months at a cost exceeding £3,900, inclusive of healthcare fees. However, the new plans would penalise those who have relied on public support systems such as child benefit and universal credit. If implemented, these changes could force many parents to choose between receiving necessary financial aid and the prospect of permanent residency.
Nick Beales, head of campaigning at the migration charity Ramfel, highlighted the potential fallout from these proposals. He stated, “Our research shows that Shabana Mahmood’s plans to penalise migrant parents for needing basic state support will plunge racialised British children into poverty. This is cruel and heartless and will harm these children in both the short and long term.”
The ramifications of this policy could be dire, resulting in parents working excessively long hours while struggling to provide for their families. As Beales noted, the government’s rhetoric on combating child poverty rings hollow if it does not encompass all children, irrespective of their parents’ immigration status.
Voices from the Ground
Ramfel has engaged with families who would be directly affected by these changes. Many expressed that they would feel compelled to abandon public funds entirely to avoid further complicating their path to settlement. One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their frustration: “It’s like you have to choose between settlement and surviving. It’s ridiculous. A decade of paperwork and stress is already overwhelming, and now they want to extend that.”
The proposed reforms have been met with widespread criticism, particularly from organisations like AdviceUK, which argue that Mahmood’s “fairer pathway to settlement” has only exacerbated insecurity for migrants. The consultation on these proposals closed on 12 February, and there are indications that the changes could come into effect as early as April, with potential retroactive applications.
Disproportionate Impact on Diverse Communities
The majority of those currently on the 10-year route to settlement are from Asian and Black backgrounds, and the proposed changes risk instituting a two-tier system that disproportionately affects lower-income families. Mahmood’s plans include a stipulation that anyone who has accessed public funds for less than a year could face an additional five years before qualifying for ILR, while longer-term users could see their wait extended by a decade.
Julia, a carer and mother of three, exemplifies the dilemma facing many. Approaching the end of her 10-year route, she has opted to cancel all benefits to avoid jeopardising her settlement. “I’ve stopped the benefits, even though I need them because I’m so scared I will not be able to get my settlement. It feels so unfair that I accessed benefits because I’m on a low wage and now that is being used against me,” she explained.
In a survey conducted by Ramfel, nearly 90% of parents using public funds indicated they would stop accessing these benefits to avoid penalties, despite the significant risks of homelessness and increased debt. The survey highlighted that over half of the 134 children involved were British citizens, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
The Government’s Stance
In November, Mahmood emphasised the need for contributions and integration within the UK’s diverse society, framing permanent residency as a privilege that must be earned. Yet, many critics argue that these new measures send a troubling message about the value of families and the role of support systems in fostering community welfare.
As the government moves forward with its plans, the necessity for a compassionate approach that recognises the contributions of all families to British society has never been clearer.
Why it Matters
The implications of these proposed changes extend far beyond administrative adjustments; they threaten the very fabric of community life for countless families. By potentially driving families into poverty and forcing them to choose between survival and stability, the government risks perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and inequality. The voices of those affected must be heard, and there is an urgent need for policies that reflect the values of inclusivity and support for all, regardless of immigration status.
