Windrush scheme & compensation

The UK Government has set up the ‘Windrush scheme’ to assist Commonwealth citizens who have been lawfully resident in the UK for a long time but do not have all the documents to demonstrate their status. Under the new scheme, you can apply for all the necessary documentation and/or British citizenship for free. Although many of those affected by the Windrush scandal came from the Caribbean Commonwealth, the scheme is open to almost everyone originally from a Commonwealth country (including Cyprus) who arrived before 1 January 1973.

Who is eligible?

– A Commonwealth citizen who settled in the UK before 1 January 1973 or has right of abode

– A child of a Commonwealth citizen parent who settled before 1 January 1973, where you were born in the UK or arrived in the UK before the age of 18

– A person of any nationality who settled in the UK before 31 December 1988 and is settled in the UK

Information on how to apply can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/windrush-scheme

Windrush taskforce

The Government has also set up a ‘Windrush taskforce’ to offer support and guidance to individuals throughout the process. The taskforce can also help vulnerable people or those who need additional support.

Contact the taskforce:

– Telephone: 0800 678 1925 (freephone)

– Email: [email protected]

Windrush Compensation Scheme

The Windrush scandal affected Commonwealth citizens in a variety of ways and the UK Government have created a compensation scheme for those who suffered losses related to employment, fees, health, education and impact on normal daily life. The ‘Windrush Compensation Scheme’ is now open for claims.

More detailed information and guidance can be found online using the following link: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/windrush-compensation-scheme

*There is specific information for those claiming for themselves and separate guidance for those claiming on behalf of a close family member or someone’s estate.

 

Contact the compensation scheme:

– Telephone: 0800 678 1925 (freephone)

– Email: [email protected]

If this affects you but would like to speak to someone from the UK Cypriot community, please do not hesitate to contact the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK before proceeding:

– Telephone: 020 8445 9999

– Email: [email protected]

– Address: 1 Britannia Road, North Finchley, London, N12 9RU

 

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