Supported reconnection typically takes between one and three weeks. The time required depends on how much preparation the person needs before they are ready to make the journey home and how quickly consulates can issue relevant travel documents.
Supported reconnection has a number of stages, starting from the point at which the referral to the service is accepted and ending once the client is back in the home country.
Stage 1: Referral Individuals or agencies make contact with the service and complete a short referral form. Clients who are eligible and motivated to seek reconnection are accepted and others signposted to alternative services.
Stage 2: Ensuring clients are ready Staff meet with clients to assess their needs and develop a plan for support. Clients are given practical and emotional support to help them prepare for the journey. Support is put in place with the client’s family and/or services in their home country.
Stage 3: The journey Clients return to their home country. More vulnerable people are accompanied by staff on the journey. The process ends after calls have been made to family/services to check that reconnection has been successful.
