Robin Sampena from Ghana Needs Help

Robin Sampena an asylum seeker from Ghana is currently in Dover Immigration Removal Centre. While in detention Robin broke his leg in three places playing football, was rushed to hospital and required surgery. He also needs an operation for a hernia. Robin has a cast on his left leg from his toe to his waist. If he were to be deported to Ghana he would not get the medical treatment he requires or any physiotherapy to ensure he gets the use of his leg back. As he broke his leg while in detention it is the responsibility of the UK government to ensure he received all the medical treatment he requires and should not therefore be deported.

What can you do?

Write or fax the Home Secretary. Please do this urgently as Robin is in the Removal Centre and immigration has already tried once to deport him.

David Blunkett
Home Secretary
Home Office
50 Queen Anne's Gate
London SW1H 9AT

Fax No: 020 7273 3965


Model letter, copy/amend/write your own:


David Blunkett
Home Secretary
Home Office
50 Queen Anne's Gate
London SW1H 9AT

Dear Mr Blunkett

Re: Robin Sampena Home Office Ref: S1166468

I am writing regarding the above asylum seeker who is currently in Dover Immigration Removals Centre. While in detention Robin sustained serious injuries to his leg which was broken in three places when he was playing football. He was rushed to hospital and required surgery. Robin has a cast on his left leg from his toe to his waist. Doctors have told Robin that he will not be able to walk for at least 9 months and he is likely to need physiotherapy. He also needs an operation for a hernia.

Robin was refused permission to stay in the UK on the grounds that he could get medical treatment in Ghana. Some medical facilities are available in Ghana for those with the money to pay but as Robin has no money and no family to support him he would not be able to pay. Treatment for poor people in Ghana is patchy and of low quality. Drugs are not freely available neither is physiotherapy.  As Robin has a full cast on his leg he would find it very difficult to get around and would not be able to work to support himself.

The welfare of immigration detainees is the responsibility of the government and as Robin injured himself while in detention it is the UK government's responsibility to ensure he receives the treatment he needs in order to be fully mobile and be able to support himself. I urge you to allow Robin to stay in the UK so that he can receive appropriate treatment.

Yours sincerely,

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