Man secures UK residency after 50-year immigration struggle

Samuel Jarrett-Coker, a 61-year-old man from Sierra Leone, has been granted the right to remain in the UK under the Windrush scheme. This decision comes after nearly 50 years of struggling with his immigration status. Jarrett-Coker arrived in the UK at age 13 in 1976 using a diplomatic passport that belonged to his brother. Since then, he has built his life in the UK, raising four British children and seven British grandchildren. He faced constant anxiety about his status and the fear of homelessness and deportation, especially since he received little response from the Home Office regarding his immigration issues. Recently, he received a letter from the Home Office that confirmed his right to remain and allowed him to apply for compensation for his past difficulties. His situation became more urgent after the death of his partner in 2023, which left him without proof of his right to rent their home. He had previously sent his passport to the Home Office for updates but never got it back. Jarrett-Coker expressed relief at the news, stating it would finally allow him to live without fear. His solicitor, Naga Kandiah, praised the decision, highlighting the significant burden of uncertainty Jarrett-Coker had faced for almost five decades. The Home Office has been contacted for further comments on the case.