Asylum and Immigration Advisor at Asylum Justice.

Finalist: Voluntary and Not for Profit

Asylum Justice is a charity which provides free legal advice to asylum seekers and refugees. The charity is run entirely by volunteers, including eight lawyers.

Roger founded Asylum Justice in an attempt to address his concern about the lack of legal help for asylum seekers in south Wales. For asylum applications to be fully and properly considered, this legal help is vital, but many people have no means of receiving such help. Thanks to Roger and six lawyers who work with him part time, the charity now offers surgeries and interpretation services in Cardiff, Newport and Swansea. Throughout setting up of the charity he has seen solutions not barriers. As a retired barrister he was no longer eligible to provide law advice, so he decided to undertake the qualifications necessary to become a registered immigration advisor. Rather than focus on the charity’s scarce resources, Roger maximises the goodwill of existing groups, organisations and individuals to achieve his goal of providing a free legal advice service.

Roger leads by example, giving inspiring speeches but focusing on getting things done. He can focus people on the task in hand whilst keeping the bigger picture in sight. He takes on responsibilities and doesn’t apportion blame for mistakes, making sure everyone feels they have their part to play and rewards success whilst learning from failures. His tremendous personal warmth makes people want to support him. He is not afraid to give bad news or face difficulties but has genuine sympathy for those who have suffered personal setbacks or suffering.

Roger’s passionate concern for justice has inspired others in the charity to help the plight of those seeking asylum in the UK. He has a profound concern for others, particularly for the most excluded and vulnerable of people. Asylum Justice is an example of what can be achieved with determination and commitment from volunteers.