A campaign group has revealed that Brexit has already had emotional and practical impacts on EU nationals living in Scotland
EU nationals are already considering leaving Scotland due to the impact of Brexit, a campaign group has claimed.
Research published by the EU Citizens’ Rights Project reveals the Brexit vote is already having an emotional effect on EU nationals.
The group has created a set of recommendations for action for the UK and Scottish Governments to help provide support to those who are considering leaving the country.
The report, entitled Brexit and EU citizens in Scotland: impacts, challenges and support needs, highlights that EU citizens appreciate the welcoming atmosphere in Scotland but still feel insecure about their future. They worry both about the outcome of negotiations and securing their right to live in the UK. There is a lot of misinformation about the new settled status - which EU citizens will need to apply for, and over details of the new immigration scheme.
“Asking EU citizens about Brexit is a bit like opening Pandora’s Box,” said project coordinator Dorota Peszkowska.
“People are worried about everything; Brexit’s impact on the economy and standards of living, one’s right to stay and travel, jumping through the Home Office’s hoops, attitudes towards immigrants -- the list goes on. Detailed questions about data security come side by side with general queries like: ‘Will we be allowed to stay?’”
Recommendations for action to support EU citizens include providing (on request) physical evidence of their right to reside, ensuring there is a single go-to source of information on Scotland-specific matters related to Brexit and providing funding for translation and interpreting to public services and third sector organisations supporting EU migrants in the process of applying for settled status.
Dr Paulina Trevena, the author of the report, said: “Scotland needs EU and other migrants, who contribute to its economy, and also answer its specific demographic needs. But it is worth remembering that the 223,000 EU citizens living in Scotland are not just an economic or demographic force; they are also our friends, neighbours, and colleagues. And we should simply support them as we would any member of society in need.”
Ben Macpherson, Minister for Migration, Europe and International Development, has welcomed the research.
He said: “Scotland is a progressive nation and we deeply value the huge contribution of all those who have chosen to make their home here. The Scottish Government will continue to do all it can to support EU citizens through this troubling period.
“However, this report also highlights that the UK Government has failed to engage with EU citizens in an effective manner, and that, even now, many are unaware of the need to apply for settled status. Those that are aware remain confused about the process and it is clear this is having an effect on the well-being of EU citizens.
“To help provide extra assistance, Scotland's Citizens Advice network will provide a new advice service, funded by £800,000 over three years by the Scottish Government, to European citizens in Scotland affected by changes in the immigration rules as a result of Brexit.”
The full report, based on opinions of nearly 400 EU citizens, presents a set of detailed recommendations for the UK and Scottish governments, third sector organisations, and businesses employing EU citizens.
