Closure of Sheffield Test Centre causes problems for Nationality applicants

Following the closing of the Citywide Learning Test Centre in Broomhall Sheffield for the purposes of the 'Life in the UK' test. This test has to be taken by all adult applicants for naturalisation as British Citizens, and from April 1st 2007 for applications for settlement in the UK (indefinite leave to remain). The Border and Immigration Agency is not accepting tests from Citywide Learning in support of applications, though for a limited time Best training (below) were offering a free re-sit.

The nearest test centre is now:
Best Training
9 Westbrook Court
Sharrow Vale Road
Sheffield S11 8YZ
Tel: 0114 2664704

Iraq - opportunities for fresh claims and section 4 support

The IOM (International Organisation for Migration)and agencies doing voluntary returns have been advising Iraqi clients that they cannot guarantee their safety after arrival in Iraq i.e. from the airport to their home area. This affects mainly those who are not from the Kurdish autonomous areas (as was) in the North, but this is route dependant so some will be affected.

Some, such as Refugee Action's Choices project in Leeds, had been providing letters to this affect and have been prepared to consult with IOM re the route proposed. If a person has consulted IOM or a partner and upon checking their travel plans with IOM is unable to safely return they may either be supported under section 4 NASS support because:

1. there is no safe route of return or

2. that because they are at risk upon return, expressing this direct to IND or to NASS constitutes a fresh asylum claim.

Some of the material upon which this is based - and that may be provided in support of a fresh claim for these reasons is as follows:

• UNHCR document on continuing protection needs - 18th December 2006
• UNHCR request that Iraqis be treated as refugees
• US State Department Travel Advice
• FCO travel advice
• Reuters up to date reports on situation in Iraq.
• ECRE March 06 position paper on returns

NRC Advice Service will:

1. assist with section 4 applications, although it is preferable for individuals to have advice on return and travel plans from an IOM partner agency (Refugee Action or Safe Haven) and receive written advice;
2. refer individuals to immigration advisers for advice on fresh claims.

Archived Advice Service Bulletins - click here