The Catholic bishops of England and Wales are calling on Catholics to make sure European parishioners, friends and relatives are aware of how to secure their rights in the wake of Brexit.
They are urging all who are eligible and wish to stay, to apply to the Settlement Scheme as required by the government. The deadline to apply expires on 30 June and it is estimated that around 25 per cent have not yet applied.
If they fail to do so, they are at risk of losing their right to live, work and access services in the UK.
In a letter to all Bishops this week Bishop Paul McAleenan, a Westminster auxiliary and lead bishop for migration and asylum, warned: “We are particularly concerned about older and vulnerable people who may struggle to navigate the process, require assistance with the online application or not even know that their status is at risk. In many cases their main point of contact with society will be through the Church.”
He wrote: "Given the very large proportion of European citizens who are Catholic, this affects many of our parishioners across England and Wales."
Any EU, EEA or Swiss citizen living here is required by the government to apply online by 30 June 2021 in order to protect their existing rights. To be eligible people must have been living here by 31 December 2020. Irish citizens do not need to apply.
In many cases, the main point of contact with society will be through the Church.
He added: "The Catholic Church in England and Wales stands in solidarity with all European citizens who have made their homes here. They are a valued part of our parishes, schools and communities."
The European Commission has launched a dedicated website including details of local information sessions across the country and an option for parishes, groups or organisations to book an immigration solicitor free of charge. The Bishops’ Conference is also in regular contact with both the Home Office and the European Commission about the Settlement Scheme.