Advisory Group

Advisory Group

The EASI Advisory Group was established in June 2005 by RAGU (Refugee Assessment and Guidance Unit) as a consultative body for the EASI DP. It is made up of 12 asylum seekers who give their time as volunteers. All members were referred by EASI partner organisations. RAGU is responsible for coordinating and training the Advisory Group.   

EASI works with Advisory Group:

The primary aims of the Advisory Group are:

• To provide advice on the needs of asylum seekers and to consult with EASI partners on their programmes.
• To inform the EASI partnerships' policies on the empowerment and integration of asylum seekers.

The Advisory Group have carried out 10 consultations, attended conferences and delivered presentations in the UK and in Europe. Their work is currently mainstreamed via LORECA, the Mayor of London's working group on asylum seekers and refugees, for whom they have carried out three policy consultations, with more planned for 2007. The Advisory Group regularly attend and participate in EASI partnership meetings and have attended specialist training since September 2005. Advisory Group members have received:

• Support with English, focusing on communication and presentation skills.
• Training in transferable skills such as chairing meetings, minute taking and report writing.
• Support from experienced careers advisors.

The Advisory Group, together with RAGU, have produced a short film entitled 'Having a Voice'. The film demonstrates some of the work and activities of the EASI Advisory Group and the impact this has had on partners' programmes and the individual members themselves. Top

EASI learns with Advisory Group:

• The creation of the Advisory Group and its involvement in EASI has helped to overcome the invisible barriers between service providers and asylum seekers through consultations and direct involvement.
• The level of support and training offered to the Advisory Group recognises the vulnerable and socially excluded position many asylum seekers occupy.
• An acknowledgment of the Advisory Groups’ existing skills, knowledge and expertise is crucial to empowering them.
• The Advisory Group's work with LORECA has allowed the voice of asylum seekers to be heard at a senior level within a policy making institution. Top

Useful Contacts:

If you would like to have more information about the EASI Advisory Group please contact Louise Salmon, Advisory Group Coordinator

Address:
Refugee Assessment and Guidance Unit
236 -250 Holloway Road
London
N7 6PP

Telephone: 020 7133 4044 Top