K was referred to LASSN by a mental health worker who was worried his isolation and anxiety would lead to serious depression. He suffered post traumatic stress symptoms from his experiences in prison in Congo and homesickness for his family and old way of life. Statutory support is short-term and impersonal and K also did not want to engage with the Congolese community because of past experience. He was taking high levels of medication to contain his memories and flashbacks but they made him feel tired, listless and unable to concentrate.

Our volunteer A was matched with K at the start of January 2007 to show him around Leeds and introduce him to the local church. This achieved, they decided to look into English classes at the local college to improve his ability to communicate. Meanwhile he awaited a decision on his claim.

Eventually K was refused by the Home Office and A was the first person he turned to. A supported him while his solicitor lodged an appeal. They had become friends and met on an informal basis once a week for a coffee and a walk. A would ask how things were going and K would bring letters to be translated. K's English was now a lot better and they shared personal stories and concerns. There was a lot of fear of being detained and deported, but A helped relieve some of this anxiety by being a point of contact in an emergency.

The case is ongoing. At times K loses hope and thinks he would be better dead, but A gives him security and the will to continue. For a few hours a week he puts aside his worries and feels valued and cared about.

Ending is difficult with such future uncertainty. If K receives a positive decision he will need a lot of help getting housed and maybe reuniting with his family. If it is negative, it may mean voluntary return, forced deportation or destitution with support withdrawn and nowhere to live. Whatever happens and whatever choices he makes, having A standing by him will be invaluable.