Help Emma stay in the UK!

important update : I have submitted my visa application on Friday 13/09 however I have been informed by my legal advisor that I no longer have the right to work in the UK and will not be able to work for up to six months while I wait for a decision from the Home Office. This is extremely unfair and unrealistic outcome and I also cannot receive benefits or any public funds during this time - or even return to Australia as it will invalidate my application. I am asking my community again for help and have had to change my goal to a higher amount to cover the review charges of my case.

I want to be transparent about this situation and I appreciate everyone who has donated so far - thank you so much for your kindness and generosity.

Hi my name is Emma, I am a queer woman originally from Australia. I have been living and working in the UK for almost ten years and consider it my home.

Unfortunately, due to the cost of living, changes in personal circumstances and expensive Iegal fees I need help from my community to keep me in the UK.

As my case is complex, the Iegal fees would be £4,800. Go fund me also take a fee which is why my goal is at £5000.

*as of the 17th I have raised my goal due to higher fees due to issues with my application

If I don’t reach my goal unfortunately I will have to return to Australia in the next couple of weeks. I am not close with my family or relatives so I don’t have the support or care that I have here in the UK.

I am estranged with most of my family due to Homophobia and discrimination which is a big part of why I left Australia in the first place.

Since arriving in the UK I have met some amazing people. My friends are my chosen family here and my queer community is SO important to me.

The relationships and friendships I’ve made here are unmatched and I finally feel like I can be my authentic self and be accepted for who I am.

I run Queer events part time and really want to continue the work I’ve started here.

I co-run an event called Meringue @meringuequeerparty that promotes body positivity and centers queer, trans and POC folk. This work is so meaningful for me and i hope I can continue these events in the future.

Also, I have had some wonderful opportunities with my Illustration and artwork that I believe I could only have by being UK based.

I had my first solo art show thanks to @brookfieldproperties last year and have worked with a number of brands and clients that have helped me produce a portfolio of work that I’m really proud of. I have a dream of wanting to become a full time Artist one day and would like to make that happen while I’m here in the UK.

Thank you for reading my story and any financial support you’re able to offer is so appreciated.

I would also like to offer a custom A4 or A3 digital illustration portrait for anyone who can offer a donation of £200 or more.

The portrait can be anything you’d like (great Christmas present idea) and it will be delivered / mailed to you. For examples of my work please view my instagram @s0ftstudio.

Thank you