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Insecure immigration status and experiencing domestic abuse

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Insecure immigration status and experiencing domestic abuse

Sometimes abusers use insecure immigration status to abuse and control. This may include:  

  • threats that you might return to your home country  
  • saying that abuse and violence is normal in the UK
  • threats by your partner or their family to not renew your visa
  • being told that support services will not believe you or help you
  • threats to separate you from your children
  • withholding money from you and preventing you from working. 
  • partners and family members using you for excessive household tasks 
  • your partner or family keeping your travel documents and home office papers 

You should try to take pictures of your immigration documents, if it is safe to do so.  

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and have immigration concerns  

You can contact Camden Safety Net.  

We are a confidential service for anyone living, working, or studying in the borough of Camden. We will not report you to the Home Office. We cannot give immigration law advice but can help you find a qualified advisor.   

This service is also available if you have no recourse to public funds.  

If you have no recourse to public funds  

No recourse to public funds means you are not eligible for most benefits or housing assistance. If this applies to you, there may be other options.  

Social Services support for families   

Social Services can provide help with: 

  • safe housing if you and your children are homeless or about to be homeless 
  • finances if you do not have enough money to buy essentials such as food and clothing  

Contact Social Services by: 

Social Services support for adults  

You may get help with housing and money if it's decided you have care and support needs. Find out how Adult Social Care can support you. 

Mental health aftercare   

You may get aftercare support if you have been hospitalised under the Mental Health Act 1983. Find out more about Mental health aftercare.

If you think that this applies to you, speak with the professional who is helping you such as your: 

  • Care Co-Ordinator 
  • IDSVA 
  • Homelessness Prevention Advisor  

If you are in the UK on a Marriage Visa  

If you are in the UK on a Marriage Visa, you usually cannot access public funds. Breaking this rule can affect your current or future right to stay in the UK and make it harder to leave an abusive relationship.  

You may be eligible for the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC). This means you can claim benefits while you apply for permission to stay in the UK. 

If you separate from a partner due to domestic abuse, you must get legal advice. An immigration adviser can help you understand your options. This includes whether the MVDAC is the right route for you.  

Find out more about the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (PDF)

If you are a victim of Modern Slavery, Trafficking and Exploitation  

You may be able to access support through the National Referral Mechanism. You can discuss this with our Adult Social Care Team. 

The No Recourse to Public Funds Network explains your support options. Camden Safety Net can work with you to access support.   

Other support services