Thomson Welcomes EU Settlement Scheme Support in North-east

Published date : 07 February, 2022

Gordon MP Richard Thomson has welcomed the arranging of free multilingual support with pre-settled and settled status applications for EU citizens.

The support, provided by the Citizens’ Rights Project - a group of third sector workers, researchers, legal experts and volunteers - provides information, advice and support for EU citizens in Scotland by connecting groups and organisations working within European communities.

Commenting, Richard Thomson MP said:

“The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) was created to continue residence rights of EU citizens after the UK exit from the EU. The deadline to apply to the scheme has passed on 30 June 2021 and late applications are now approved only if applicants can show that they have ‘reasonable grounds’ why they should be accepted.

“Many thousands have applied since that date, but evidence suggests that thousands of people may still have not applied for settled status. This could be for a number of reasons: lack of information, lack of language and digital skills and additional vulnerabilities compounded by the limitations posed by the Covid19 crisis. I’m therefore pleased to help highlight the advice clinics which have been arranged by the Citizens’ Rights Project.

“EU citizens who have come here to live and work and contribute to the local economy are a valued part of our community. Under Brexit, both EU and UK citizens lost rights and entitlements which many of us grew up with and took for granted, such as unrestricted travel and the right to work abroad. The loss of those rights has been one of the hardest aspects of a Brexit for which Scotland did not vote. Scotland’s people – of all nationalities – are poorer as a result and Scotland’s businesses are paying a heavy cost.”

Two advice clinics have been arranged which will take place in Turning Point Scotland, 7 Holburn Street, Aberdeen, on the following dates.

•   Saturday 19 February, 10.00am to 3.00pm
•   Saturday 19 March, 10.00am to 3.00pm

To book an appointment e-mail: [email protected]

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