Making well-reasoned decisions
My role involves making decisions on non-detained deportation cases, ensuring each one is carefully considered and in line with policy and legal requirements.
A big part of my work is reviewing evidence and submissions, often complex, and reaching balanced, well-reasoned decisions. I also manage litigation work, including responding to Pre-Action Protocol requests, which means working to tight deadlines and engaging with legal processes.
Finding my way here
Before joining the Home Office, I worked in university admissions, where I was involved in international student visa compliance. That’s where my interest in immigration started.
I joined the Home Office in 2019 as an Administrative Officer in Asylum Operations. In that role, I supported casework processes, managing workflows and arranging interviews and interpreters. This gave me a strong foundation in how immigration cases are handled.
I then moved into Immigration Enforcement after being promoted to a Case Owner role. I managed cases for individuals in immigration detention, working towards their removal. This involved reviewing cases, handling bail applications, and managing sensitive issues, including medical and behavioural concerns.
Now, as a Decision Maker, my focus has shifted. I’m no longer managing cases day-to-day, I’m making the decisions. That’s required me to build confidence, strengthen my analytical thinking, and apply policy and legal considerations in a more considered way. I enjoy the analytical side of the role, working through evidence and reaching decisions. It’s engaging and challenging in the right way.
A career shaped by people and perspective
At school and college, I was drawn to languages and social studies, which led me to study Spanish and Sociology at university. That interest in people and cultures has stayed with me throughout my career, from working with international students to understanding the context behind the cases I work on today.
What I enjoy most is the team around me. I’m part of a supportive group, which really helps when working through complex cases.
No two days look the same
A typical day starts with reviewing my caseload and prioritising work based on deadlines. While there is structure, priorities can shift quickly depending on deadlines and case complexity, so no two days are ever quite the same.
Most of my time is spent assessing evidence and submissions, working through complex information, and making decisions that are fair and well-reasoned. Alongside this, I manage litigation work and collaborate with colleagues to discuss cases and share knowledge.
What keeps me motivated is knowing I’m contributing to fair and consistent outcomes, alongside people who support each other and learn together.
The flexibility has made a big difference
I’m able to manage my work around family responsibilities, including caring for my children. I’ve also found the organisation to be inclusive and supportive, with adjustments in place to help people work effectively and feel valued.
Continuous development
This is one of the biggest benefits of working here. There are chances to take part in job shadowing and mentoring, and there’s a strong focus on ongoing learning through structured training. That support has helped me build confidence, develop new skills, and progress in my career.
My advice would be to stay open to new experiences, take the opportunities that come your way, and challenge yourself. It’s a place where you can keep developing while contributing to work that really matters.
I’d definitely encourage anyone considering a career here to go for it. There are real opportunities to learn, grow, and progress. It’s a supportive environment, and the work itself is meaningful.
