Business Details
Free Immigration Advice & Support Services
Established over 35 years ago, Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU) has dedicated itself to supporting individuals affected by immigration controls. Our organisation provides free legal immigration advice, representation, and holistic support services to asylum seekers, refugees, children, and vulnerable adults. With a team of experienced caseworkers, solicitors, trustees, and volunteers, we specialise in nationality, asylum, and human rights law, ensuring our clients receive expert guidance through complex legal processes. We actively challenge discrimination while promoting equality and diversity across all our operations. Our services extend to homelessness prevention, crisis support, and advocacy for women at risk, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as victims of domestic abuse, trafficking survivors, and separated children.Through partnerships with local authorities and community organisations, we deliver targeted training and policy development to improve systemic responses to migration issues. Our RESS (Restricted Eligibility Support Service) provides critical assistance to non-UK nationals facing homelessness due to immigration status restrictions. We maintain strict professional standards through regulation by the Immigration Advisers Association (IAA) and Law Society-accredited practitioners.
Services
Legal Immigration Advice
Homelessness and Crisis Service
Children and Young People Support
Women at Risk Support
Refugee Family Reunion
EU Settlement Scheme
Asylum Support Appeals
Age Assessment Disputes
Hate Crime Reporting
Fee Waiver Applications
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years' experience supporting vulnerable migrants
- All services are provided free of charge by accredited professionals
- Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse and trafficking
- Dedicated advocacy service for separated children and young people
- Regulated by the Immigration Advisers Association with Law Society-accredited practitioners
Associations and certifications
- Immigration Advisers Association (IAA)
Services
Legal Immigration Advice
Our Law Society-accredited caseworkers provide expert legal advice on asylum, nationality, and human rights issues. We specialise in complex cases involving victims of torture, trafficking, and domestic violence. Our team represents clients at all stages of the legal process, including tribunal hearings and judicial reviews.
Homelessness and Crisis Service
This service assists individuals facing destitution due to immigration status restrictions. We help with asylum support applications, NRPF condition removals, and access to emergency accommodation. Our RESS partnership provides tailored support for non-UK nationals at risk of homelessness across Greater Manchester.
Children and Young People Support
We offer specialist advocacy for separated children navigating the UK welfare system. Our service includes age assessment disputes, education rights guidance, and mental health support. The All4One youth group provides social integration and leadership development for 13-21 year olds seeking asylum.
Women at Risk Support
This programme supports women facing gender-based violence with insecure immigration status. We provide safety planning, legal pathways to permanent residency, and access to specialist support services. Our Safer Lives project includes a comprehensive database of local protection resources.
Refugee Family Reunion
We assist refugees in reuniting with immediate family members through complex visa applications. Our service covers eligibility assessments, evidence preparation, and appeals against refusal decisions. We prioritise cases involving children and vulnerable dependants.
People
Neil Frackelton
CEO
Neil Frackelton joined GMIAU as CEO in October 2025, bringing extensive experience in migration policy and humanitarian operations. He previously led international refugee resettlement programmes and has advised governments on asylum system improvements. Neil is committed to expanding GMIAU's impact while maintaining its grassroots focus.
Questions
How do I access GMIAU's legal immigration services?
We accept written referrals through our online form. Priority is given to vulnerable cases involving children, domestic abuse survivors, and those facing immediate destitution. All services are free of charge.
Can I get emergency support outside office hours?
While our offices operate during standard hours, we provide emergency contact details for critical situations. Vulnerable individuals can access out-of-hours support through partner organisations.
What support exists for separated children?
Our specialist youth team offers age assessment disputes, education rights guidance, and mental health support. The All4One group provides social integration activities for 13-21 year olds seeking asylum.
How does GMIAU help with asylum accommodation issues?
We assist with asylum support applications, challenge unlawful accommodation removals, and provide guidance on rights during the 'streamlined' asylum process. Our RESS service supports those facing homelessness.
Can I get help with EU Settlement Scheme applications?
Yes, we provide free advice on EUSS applications, including late applications and appeals against refusal decisions. Our team helps vulnerable applicants navigate the digital application process.
What training does GMIAU offer to professionals?
We deliver specialist training on migration law, NRPF support, and asylum system navigation. Sessions include 'Routes out of Destitution' and 'Age Disputes for Young People' with practical case management guidance.
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