About UKLGIG

The UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group (UKLGIG) supports LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration process. Our vision is a world where there is equality, dignity, respect and safety for all people in the expression of their sexual or gender identity.

We provide psychosocial and emotional support for LGBTQI+ asylum seekers to help improve their mental health and reduce isolation. We also provide legal information and advice. In addition, we advocate for improved policies and decision-making by governments in LGBTQI+ asylum claims.

We also continue providing support and information to LGBTQI+ people seeking to live in the UK with their partners via our website, an online forum and a monthly meeting.

Around the world more than 70 countries consider homosexuality illegal, in five of these the death penalty can apply. Moreover, the persecution experienced by LGBQTI+ people goes well beyond any official prosecutions. The violence, humiliation, inequality and discrimination many LGBT people face, can be enacted by state officials, but is also often experienced within their own communities and families without any recourse to protection. UKLGIG assists LGBTQI+ people seeking a safe haven from persecution.

Our asylum related activities include:

Supporting and advising LGBTQI+ people seeking asylum: providing emotional support and immigration advice; making referrals to solicitors; visiting detention centres; and other support projects.

Research & Policy: working to ensure LGBTQI+ people are treated equally and with dignity in the asylum process; seeking to improve the quality of Home Office decision making and seeking an end to the detention of LGBTQI+ people.

Training & Information: providing training and information on LGBTQI+ asylum issues.