Latest Migration Information
We support people arriving in the UK through different migration and resettlement routes, including individuals, families and wider communities. As circumstances and government guidance change, clear and up-to-date information can help people understand their options and find the right support.
This page brings together guidance, resources and support for people affected by current migration routes, humanitarian programmes and changes to UK immigration policy. Whether you are planning a move, have recently arrived, or are helping others settle into life in the UK, you will find information to help you take the next step.
We regularly review and update the information on this page to reflect new developments, helping individuals and communities access reliable guidance when they need it most.
If you are based in Nottingham and you are interested in learning English, you can get free impartial advice about classes from BEGIN.
Ukraine Resources
East Midlands Councils and local councils provide information to support people from Ukraine living in our region. Follow the links to access the guidance and services available.
- Ukraine Visa Schemes
- Nottingham Council
- Nottinghamshire County Council
- Homes For Ukraine Lincolnshire
- Derby City Council
- Derbyshire County Council
- Leicester City Council
- Leicestershire County Council
- North Northamptonshire Council
- West Northamptonshire Council
The Red Cross also provide some useful links for Ukrainians living in the East Midlands:
Hong Kong Nationals
Are you a Hong Kong National arriving in East Midlands? Or do you know someone who is? East Midlands Council have developed a Hong Kong Hub on their website. Follow the link to visit the hub and find out all you need to know about settling in East Midlands.
You can access the East Midlands Hong Kong Hub Facebook group here.
Afghan Resettlement Programme
If you are on a resettlement scheme such as the Afghan Resettlement Programme, or you already have Leave to Remain in the UK, there is support available across the region. You can follow the links below to find guidance and local services in:
- Leicester – West Northamptonshire Charnwood, Leicester City of Sanctuary
- Derby – Derby Refugee Forum
- Nottingham – Nottingham Refugee Forum
- North Lincolnshire – North Lincolnshire Sanctuary Group
- Upbeat Communities deliver ESOL in Derbyshire.
Asylum Seekers
While you are waiting for your asylum decision, you can access free and subsidised English classes such as; Conversation cafes, mixed level ESOL classes (unaccredited) and Community classes.
Most of these classes will be unaccredited, and you will not be able to sit exams to gain ESOL qualifications. If you want to do exam courses or gain qualifications, you are likely to be asked to pay for them.
You can access some community classes and conversation classes immediately, such as these ones at: Northampton Town of Sanctuary, Local Welcome Derby, Open Hands Leicester, Refugee Roots Nottingham or International Welcome Cafe Lincoln.
You will need to be in the UK for 6 months for access to classes funded by the Adult Skills Fund (ASF)
College classes and other accredited courses are likely to be available to you for free after 6 months in the UK.