Denied my backup legal challenge
When EEA/Swiss citizens are granted pre-settled or settled status, they are not issued with a physical proof of status, instead they have to use an online system whenever they need to prove their UK rights to anyone.
In February 2021, we launched a Judicial Review to challenge the Government to address the discrimination of some of the most vulnerable members of our society, including the elderly, people with disabilities and Romas.
The High Court refused permission for the case to be heard. The judge held that the claim is ‘premature’ because EU citizens will only be required to rely on the digital only system from 1 July 2021. This is a disappointing outcome.
Nonetheless, despite not winning in court, we think that bringing the claim was worthwhile. We have done everything we can to support vulnerable EU citizens and, in doing so, we have put the Home Office on notice that we are willing to litigate on their behalf when it is necessary to do so. This will hold the Home Office’s feet to the fire and ensure due attention is paid to the effects of the scheme following the end of the grace period.
