Tuesday, 24th July.
Three days after Fijian-born L/Cpl Isimeli ( ‘Bale’) Baleawai’s story hit the streets – the letters, cheques and phone calls keep on coming. Kim, Bale and their two children are just one of the many families being helped by Veterans Aid because of Citizenship and Leave to Remain issues. In Bale’s case the threat of deportation is imminent. There is public outrage that this decorated soldier – with 13-years service and five operational tours behind him – is considered unworthy of citizenship because of a summary offence committed after 12 years service.
The campaign launched by The Sunday Telegraph has led many more people to our website – appeals from serving soldiers as well as veterans. Like the 100+ whom we have already helped, and the live cases we are currently dealing with, they reveal anomalies, stories of conflicting advice, human misery and fear. Veterans Aid has secured legal help for the Baleawai’s and will continue to do all it can for those cut off from the right to work, claim benefits or register with a GP.
