Right to Remain for Maria and Shaan

Thank you so much to everyone who has made a donation so far, Maria is overwhelmed and so grateful for your generosity. Please can you share this page with your contacts so that we can continue to make progress towards our goal.

Maria and her child, Shawn, have sought asylum UK as they are at risk of persecution if they return to their home country. Unfortunately, their asylum claim has just been refused by the home office. Please read their story below and consider helping them raise the money they need to appeal the decision.

Shaan was born in the UK while Maria was here for study. Maria was not married when Shaan was conceived. She later married the father without the consent of either of their families. As a result, Shaan was never accepted by his extended family.

Maria became a victim of domestic violence for many years and after finally leaving her husband, she raised Shaan as a single parent. Maria is unable to return to her home country as she would be in constant fear of honour-based violence and persecution by the wider community due to their lack of acceptance of single mothers. Maria also has multiple health conditions and relies on a carers to support her with day-to-day tasks. If Maria returned to her home country, she would have no practical, emotional or financial support from family or friends.

Shaan is now 11years old and has lived in the UK his whole life. The only language he can speak fluently is English. The UK is the only home he has ever known.

Despite all this, Maria’s claim for asylum has been rejected by the home office and she is expected to return to her home country where she and her child will be isolated, persecuted and living in constant fear of honour-based violence.

All Maria wants is to continue to raise Shaan here in UK, with peace of mind, knowing they are safe, without any fear of being harmed.

Maria needs your help so that she can appeal the Home Office’s decision and fight for her right to remain here. Maria needs £3000-£5000 to hire a solicitor to support her application for right to remain. Please give whatever you can to support Maria and Shaan.

(NB: names have been changed for privacy and safety)