Lib Dem MP seeks urgent Home Office review for carer’s family

11 June 2026

Victoria Collins, Liberal Democrat MP for Harpenden and Berkhamsted, has expressed her shock following reports that a local family from Sri Lanka have received Home Office letters requiring the mother and the couple's three children to leave the UK within 14 days. The case has sparked concern among local residents, who have described the situation as both distressing and deeply unfair. 

Dozens of worried neighbours and colleagues have been contacting the local Lib Dem MP, Victoria Collins, to highlight the plight of this family, who have contributed so much to the area. One resident said “This family is in all honesty, one of the nicest you could ever meet. They are incredibly hard working, very involved in the community and would do anything for anyone.” Another neighbour commented, "From the minute they arrived in this country they have worked every hour they can and done everything legally and by the book".

The local MP has been informed that the father works as a local care worker and the mother as a teaching assistant in a primary school, both contributing to their local community, church and with children fully embedded within the local schools.

Despite their hard work and community commitment, Victoria Collins MP was informed that the family's three children, aged 12, nine and eight, and their mother have been told by the Home Office that they must leave the country within 14 days because they can no longer remain as dependents on the father's visa. 

Victoria Collins MP said:

"I am shocked and horrified by this and deeply concerned for this family. The parents are working on the front line in care and teaching, whilst being active members of their local community. Their children are settled in local schools and have built their lives here. To now face separation and uncertainty is deeply distressing.

“Residents are also horrified to hear about what’s happening. I have urgently raised this case directly with the Home Office Minister to ensure their case is properly reviewed and that the family's circumstances are fully considered."