LAWRS (Latin American Women’s Rights Service) provides culturally and linguistically tailored support to Latin American women living in the UK, many of whom face language barriers, uncertain immigration status, and limited social networks. Operating from London but serving women across England and Wales, LAWRS addresses domestic violence, workplace exploitation, housing issues, and mental health. Their bilingual staff speak Spanish and Portuguese, ensuring survivors from countries like Brazil, Colombia, or Ecuador can discuss intimate topics in their native language.
From a family-law standpoint, LAWRS focuses on vulnerable women who may not realise that UK protective orders or divorce procedures apply to them, regardless of nationality or immigration status. Advocates explain the basicsl, how to obtain a Non-Molestation Order if the abuser threatens deportation, how to apply for leave to remain under the Destitution Domestic Violence Concession (if on a spouse visa), or how to proceed with child arrangements in a cross-border context. LAWRS also collaborates with pro bono lawyers who understand both UK family law and international custody disputes (e.g., if a father threatens to abduct a child abroad). Additionally, the charity runs empowerment workshops, supporting women’s financial independence so they can exit abusive situations without fear of destitution.
Key Services
- Bilingual Advice & Advocacy: Spanish and Portuguese-speaking advisors guide women through legal, housing, and benefits systems.
- Immigration & DV Support: Helps survivors with insecure immigration status secure protective measures and potential indefinite leave.
- Pro Bono & Legal Aid Referrals: Connects women with sympathetic solicitors who grasp cultural nuances.
- Community Education: Workshops on financial literacy, employability, and healthy relationships—often bridging cultural gaps.
Why It’s Valuable
For Latin American survivors, cultural and linguistic barriers can exacerbate abuse—an abuser may isolate them by withholding passports or insisting UK authorities won’t help non-English speakers. LAWRS combats these myths, emphasising that all women, regardless of citizenship, have rights and can seek legal protection.
By intertwining immigration expertise with family-law knowledge, LAWRS ensures women aren’t forced to choose between personal safety and precarious legal status. Plus, the charity’s community-based events foster solidarity: many Latin American women find they’re not alone, discovering shared experiences and practical coping strategies. This blend of emotional support and strong legal know-how makes LAWRS a cornerstone for Latin American women forging safer, more autonomous lives in the UK.
Website: https://lawrs.org.uk/
Registered Charity Number: 1102925