Dear Immigration Boards
I write these next paragraphs during the 2020 Corona Virus Pandemic. I wonder how history will look back on these surreal times and judge our actions.
Regarding general visa policy. Do you think the pandemic will affect governments attitudes towards migration.
I wonder whether my wife's work as a carer for disabled people during this time will provide mitigating circumstances for the extension of her visa, as she has proved herself to be a good citizen and placing the needs of others over her own health?
Hi Physicskate
I have kept your words at the forefront of my consciousness throughout this time.
They have helped me separate my relationship problems from our administrative problems and focus on each in isolation. Thank you
Hi THO
Thank you for your support and gentle words. Your empathy and understanding have helped me to discuss a matter that would otherwise have been difficult to reveal publicly.
My stepdaughter's engineering college has closed due to the Covid -19 threat.
Her tutors have predicted her grades and although an exam has not been sat, she has effectively passed this year's training.
She will be able to apply for an apprenticeship with aviation engineering companies in the autumn. I feel that I have crossed the finish line on assisting her to reach a brighter future.
Unfortunately my wife, despite her best efforts during the last 3 months, lost her temper with me and lashed out physically at me. On this occasion I managed to find the strength that had previously been elusive. I called the police, left the family home and have returned to London to live with my frail mother.
The danger to elderly people during this time made the decision a "no-brainer" and I am happy to say my 82 year old mother is safe and isolated.
I have seen a lawyer and we sent the following letter to my spouse.
"Dear Ms AbusedLovingHusband
My client Mr AbusedLovingHusband
I have been instructed to write to you by my client in respect of matters now that he has come to the conclusion that your marriage has broken down irretrievably.
My client will shortly instruct me in respect of divorce proceedings.
In the meantime I understand that when my client left the property on 28 February he left all his belongings there. He has asked me to propose that he arrives at 9.00am on 1 April to collect those belongings. Please confirm that is agreed.
He also proposes that you transfer to him £________ from the savings account to his personal account on or before that date.
I recommend that you obtain independent advice about the contents of this letter. In particular, I recommend that you contact a member of Resolution in your area. You will find details of them at www.resolution.org.uk or by calling __________.
Resolution members are normally specialists in family law and subscribe to a code of practice which is geared towards encouraging a constructive approach in all family matters. I confirm that I am a member of Resolution.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely My Solicitor"
Due to the current situation, we followed up with this >>
"Due to the current coronavirus pandemic my client has told me that he will be following government advice and will not now be collecting his belongings at the agreed time. In the meantime he asks that his belongings are kept in good order until such time as a different day for collection can be agreed.
He also asks that should you decide to permanently leave the premises in the intervening period, that you inform me as a matter of urgency."
During January we applied (using my supporting documents) for a Schengen tourist visa for my wife and daughter.
I now have a very real fear that they will abscond in the light of the marriage breakdown leaving me to pay credit card and any other debts in their wake.
The financial side worries me, but I am more worried that they will be living as illegal migrants going forward. I don't know what the best thing to do is.
Do you think I should inform the European authorities and bearing in mind the current situation, do you think I should tell the Home Office too?
Any assistance, by any reader, gladly received. But especially thanks THO for being a good friend. I couldn't see your perspective at the time I was blinded by love. Things are much clearer now. K