Written Letters of Support Guidance

At AMIS we understand that those experiencing domestic abuse may face complex challenges, including navigating immigration and residency processes. As part of our commitment to supporting those experiencing domestic abuse, we can provide written reports detailing a person’s experience of ongoing abuse, as it has been described to us, but only in cases where the support has been ongoing and consistent. These reports may only be used to support applications for leave to remain or indefinite leave on domestic violence grounds when appropriate.

We DO NOT provide legal opinions or immigration advice, but our written reports may contain:

Eligibility Criteria

For AMIS to consider writing a written report, you must meet the following conditions:

These reports are not guaranteed evidence, but may help underpin your immigration application by demonstrating that your case has been professional assessment by a recognised, independent domestic abuse service. 

If you have been using our helpline or emailing our support team (open 9 am–4 pm, Monday to Friday), and you believe a written report might aid your immigration pathway, please let one of our helpline support officers know. We will review your case, confirm whether a report can be provided, and explain the process to you.

Our reports are recognised in the Home Office’s Victims of Domestic Abuse Guidance (Appendix: page 37; Appendix Victim of Domestic Abuse). According to the guidance:

“Letters, endorsements and professional assessments from an independent domestic IDVA, abuse organisation or charity (including a refuge) supporting victims of domestic abuse (including a refuge) confirming that they have assessed the applicant as being a victim of domestic abuse.”

Well-documented reports from recognised support organisations can be:

Important note: ‘Letters or assessments from domestic abuse support agencies, including IDVAs, refuges and charities, may require you to follow up to confirm that the organisation has made a professional assessment or to provide further detail on how the conclusion was reached, and is not merely relaying the applicant’s account.’

Other services who can support you with your immigration are listed below:

Citizens Rights Project (CRP)

Overview:
Citizens Rights Project is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing information, advice, and support to EU citizens residing in Scotland. Their mission is to assist EU nationals in understanding and exercising their rights, especially in the context of Brexit-related changes. ​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


Fair Justice System for Scotland Group (FJSS Group)

Overview:
The Fair Justice System for Scotland Group is a grassroots-led legal charity based in West Calder, West Lothian. They advocate for policy reforms to increase racial diversity and inclusion within the Scottish justice sector. ​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


Forth Valley Welcome

Overview:
Forth Valley Welcome is a registered Scottish charity supporting the resettlement of vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers in the Stirling and Clackmannanshire areas. Their mission is to offer sanctuary and assistance to individuals and families seeking a settled future within local communities.​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


International Organisation for Migration (IOM) – United Kingdom

Overview:
IOM is the leading intergovernmental organisation in the field of migration, committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. In the UK, IOM implements programmes in areas such as assisted voluntary return, counter-trafficking, refugee resettlement, and research on migration.​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


Refuweegee

Overview:
Refuweegee is a community-led charity based in Glasgow, dedicated to ensuring that people who have been forcibly displaced are welcomed and supported in true Glaswegian style. They provide welcome packs, community events, and various forms of practical assistance to help newcomers settle in the city.​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


Secure Scotland

Overview:
Secure Scotland is an initiative focused on reimagining security in Scotland by promoting peace, justice, and environmental sustainability. They aim to engage communities in discussions about what true security means, moving beyond traditional notions tied to military and defense.​

Key Services:

Contact Information:


Together Scotland (Scottish Alliance for Children’s Rights)

Overview:
Together is an alliance of Scottish children’s charities working to improve the awareness, understanding, and implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). They support organisations in integrating children’s rights into their work and monitor the progress of children’s rights in Scotland.

Key Services:

Contact Information: