Opportunity to improve mental health support for asylum seekers in the UK

Article summary

The Royal College of Psychiatrists has issued a new report ‘Protecting the mental health of people seeking sanctuary in the UK's evolving legislative landscape’ (the report). This highlights what it states to be the current opportunity to reform the immigration system while safeguarding the mental health of individuals seeking sanctuary in the UK. The report addresses recent legislative changes from 2022 to 2024 that have impacted the mental health of persons seeking asylum, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, due to prolonged immigration limbo, financial hardship, and the threat of detention. It urges the new Government to capitalise on the opportunity to ensure immigration legislation explicitly protects individuals with mental illness. It also calls for a review of the mental health impacts of upcoming laws, including mandatory screening upon arrival and ongoing monitoring to address mental health needs promptly.