Head of Education, Public Law and Human Rights
A 25-year-old Afghan asylum seeker has been relocated from Wethersfield Accommodation Centre following a legal challenge brought by Simpson Millar’s Public Law and Human Rights team.
The individual, who fled Afghanistan fearing persecution, had been diagnosed with moderate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and assessed as being at high risk of suicide and serious self-harm. Despite this, the Home Office refused to move him, relying on an assessment from its own medical adviser who had not examined him in person.
However, he has now been moved to more suitable accommodation. A decision that was made after legal action was launched by Simpson Millar on behalf of the man.
Shalini Patel, Head of Public Law and Human Rights at Simpson Millar, said: “This case is yet another example of the Home Office’s failure to properly assess and accommodate vulnerable asylum seekers. Despite clear medical evidence, our client was forced to endure conditions that worsened his health, leaving legal action as the only option to secure his relocation.”
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4.6 out of 5 based off 2883 reviewsCouncil, B.D. (2024). Updates: Wethersfield Airfield Asylum Accommodation – Braintree District Council. [online] Braintree District Council. Available at: https://www.braintree.gov.uk/wethersfieldairfield
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Equality and Human Rights Commission (2022). The Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) | EHRC. [online] www.equalityhumanrights.com. Available at: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/guidance/public-sector-equality-duty-psed.
GOV.UK. (n.d.). Allocation of asylum accommodation policy (accessible). [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/asylum-accommodation-requests-policy/allocation-of-asylum-accommodation-policy-accessible.
Shalini leads her departments, shaping the team’s strategy with a focus on ensuring effective legal support is delivered. She has a strong track record of representing vulnerable individuals against government actions, particularly in cases involving human rights violations. Her notable legal actions include leading significant cases against public authorities, influencing policy changes, and fighting for the rights of those affected by unfair treatment. This experience has equipped her with profound insights into tackling complex legal challenges, especially in cases related to public law and human rights.
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