‘I feel free now’: Shabana Mahmood’s immigration shake-up provokes mixed emotions

The Guardian · Aamna Mohdin, Chris Osuh, Diane Taylor · 2026-11-06 15:28 UTC

Some relatives of British citizens say they feel left behind, but announcement has brought relief to many care workers

“The only time we’re regarded as human beings is when they need a lot of hands onboard, like during Covid. But after that, we’re tossed away like we’re some rubbish,” Aneisha Williams says.

Williams, 39, was months from qualifying for indefinite leave to remain after 10 years in the UK. But claiming housing benefit could delay her settlement for years under Shabana Mahmood’s “earned settlement” plans.

Under pressure from Labour MPs and unions, the home secretary this week offered qualifying care workers a five-year settlement route. But others, among them partners and former partners of British citizens, face continued uncertainty.

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