Where a client seems likely to be eligible, they are assisted in the application process. Emergency full-board accommodation can be arranged where an Asylum Seeker has no other resources to draw on.
Other support includes assisting clients to access medical services, referral to legal representation, information about educational opportunities, and referral to external agencies for clothing, equipment, etc.

Who Can Get Assistance?

Not all Asylum Seekers are eligible for support from NAAS. The main criteria are that applicants:
have, or intend to apply for, Political Asylum
be over 18 or part of a family group
not have received a positive decision on their Asylum application
be destitute and not eligible for any other supports, e.g. Social Services or the Benefits Agency.

The service makes an initial assessment to ensure the client is likely to be eligible for support under these provisions, referring on to other agencies when necessary.

How To Get Assistance

NICEM is happy to accept referrals from any source, including:
Direct self-referral
Via family or friends
Member Groups
Independent Advice Centres
Citizens Advice Bureaux
Community and Voluntary Based Organisations
Health & Social Services Departments
Private Practice Solicitors
Homeless Advice Agencies

Type of Work Covered by the Service

Initial assessment
Discussion of support options
Briefing clients on the NASS process and time scales involved
Assessment of urgent needs, e.g. clothing, medical
Applying for NASS support
Arrangement of emergency full-board accommodation
Liasing with NASS regarding progress of application
Referral to legal representation for asylum applications
Advice, assistance and support while a client is waiting for a NASS decision
One Stop Service for Non-Nass clients, referring to Social Services and other appropriate agencies
Referral and registration with GPs and dentists
Arranging English language classes
Arranging access to community groups
Refugee resettlement and integration