Relatives of British citizens express frustration over new immigration policies that risk delaying permanent residency for long-serving care workers, despite their critical role during crises like the pandemic. Under proposed reforms, eligibility for indefinite leave to remain could be extended for those claiming housing benefits, potentially pushing back settlement for years. Some workers, who have contributed for a decade, say they feel undervalued outside of emergencies, while others welcome the announcement as a step toward securing their status. The debate highlights tensions between immigration rules and the reliance on foreign care staff in the UK’s social care system.
Some relatives of British citizens say they feel left behind, but announcement has brought relief to many care workers“The only time we’re regarded as human beings is when they need a lot of hands onboard, like during Covid. But after that, we’re tossed away like we’re some rubbish,” Aneisha Williams says.Williams, 39, was months from qualifying for indefinite leave to remain after 10 years in the UK. But claiming housing benefit could delay her settlement for years under Shabana Mahmood’s “earned settlement” plans. Continue reading...
