Pro Bono Referral Scheme for Country of Origin Information reports
Since 2023, PILS have coordinated a bespoke pro bono service for immigration practitioners in Northern Ireland.
In collaboration with Clifford Chance, we can source tailored Country of Origin Information reports for practitioners, working in one of our member organisations, who are supporting asylum seekers.
How does it work?
Practitioners can request a COI report that is tailored specifically to their client’s application and circumstances, while not requiring details of the identity of the asylum seeker concerned.
The COI reports are produced by Clifford Chance-supervised lawyers on a pro bono – free – basis.
This service – designed in response to unmet need and immigration sector pressures – has already provided multiple PILS members with COI reports since its introduction in June 2023.
One of the first COI reports was described as “excellent” by a practitioner in one of PILS’ solicitor firm members, who also said “I will have no hesitation in using this service again.”
How can I get a COI report?
Your solicitor firm/NGO needs to be a member of PILS to use this service.
Step One:
Check if your firm/NGO is already a member.
- Click here for the full list of solicitor firm members.
- Click here for the full list of NGO members.
If it isn’t, simply complete this application form and a member of the PILS team will be in touch with you very soon.
Step Two:
If you already work for a PILS member, then simply download the COI Report Referral Form, follow the instructions in the Word document and email your completed form to PILS.
COI Request Form – PILS x Clifford Chance Refugee Support Scheme