At Together Now we believe that all families should be able to live together if they choose. We are saddened by the devastating and unfair decision announced by the Home Secretary on 1 September 2025.
We have the privilege of working with families as they move through the final stages of being reunited. We know that families are not coming from a place of safety. They themselves are facing significant risk of persecution, lack of access to basic healthcare or education or living in conflict zones. Families come to us with aspirations, to work, study and build a life for their family in the UK.
We are asking the government to consider the impact of some of the changes suggested on the 1 September. To think about how a two year wait after a sponsor gets their refugee status is two more years a child is waiting for surgery that will save his sight, that a minimum income threshold would mean a mother unable to act as her children move from location to location hiding from the authorities, that an English language requirement would mean that a Sudanese father struggles whilst his family are displaced and on the street.
We support families to stand for themselves, to take control of their own lives and plans. We ask that the government instead allow those seeking asylum to work. So they can use their skills and experience to provide for their family, contribute to the UK and decrease their reliance on public services through gaining confidence and independence.
We also ask that the government lift the suspension whilst the policy is reviewed. Many people we’ve spoken with have not yet applied because of delays in Home Office decision making or lack of ability to access immigration advice to support with an application. The suspension is unfair, and unjustly and arbitrarily penalises vulnerable families.
Write to your MP
Our Family Reunion Experts group have asked that we do more to advocate for those seeking refugee family reunion. In response to the Home Secretary’s announcement on 1 September that refugee family reunion would be suspended whilst it was under review we are asking you to write to your MP to advocate for those affected.
You are welcome to use our template letter below and adapt it however works for you.
Follow