Third Sector Organisations, Asylum Seekers and Refugees : Support During Covid-19 and Post-Pandemic

This short Pivot explores the the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of the lived experiences of asylum seekers on the staff and volunteers of third sector organisations who assist and support them. This research casts a direct light on the issues, challenges, and barriers of their work during and after the pandemic. It seeks to pinpoint the needs of staff which should be addressed by employers of third sector organisations to improve efficiency and wellbeing from an operational viewpoint, a mental health lens and psychological perspective. It adopts a Constructivist Grounded Theory (CGT) — a qualitative research method that involves co-constructing theories with participants. The research effectively examines how frontline organisations need to change given the social, economic and political challenges faced by asylum seekers and refugees in accessing support alongside the impact of new Government immigration and asylum policies alongside new legislation at that time. It also provides insights into the lived experiences of asylum seekers and refugees.