Real voices

Travelling to the UK illegally is difficult and dangerous. Even for those who manage to get here, life can be very hard. Here you can explore the stories of real people who tried to enter and live illegally in the UK.

Read a transcript of the video

[0:00] On screen:

A woman’s heavily pixelated face appears with the UK Government logo, title: ‘The people smugglers’ lies’ and the words: ‘Firsthand account – identity protected’ appearing on top.

[0:05] On screen:

“I was an English teacher in a small city. I wasn’t earning much.”

[0:11] On screen:

We see a view of a central London street appear on screen along with the words: “An agent PROMISED me a high-paying job in the UK…”

[0:16] On screen:

“After I landed, the agent didn’t offer me a job. I realised I had been CHEATED.”

[0:22] On screen:

A close-up image of hands serving food at a counter appears on screen along with the words: “I found a low pay serving job. I could barely SURVIVE.”

[0:29] On screen:

A close-up image of a woman’s hands holding a takeaway coffee cup appears on screen with the words: “I never wanted to be an ILLEGAL WORKER, but I can’t go home penniless.”

[0:35] On screen:

“I am stuck. I need to repay the money I owe for my journey here.”

[0:41] On screen:

Endframe with UK Government logo: Illegal migrants are not allowed to work in the UK and risk being exploited.

B’s story

“Living and working in the UK hasn’t matched up to my expectations.” Explore B’s story.

G’s story

“I was lying to my family back home. I’m still in debt.” Explore G’s story.

K’s story

“Never again would I risk my life in a small boat.” Explore K’s story.

A’s story

“We still owe £5,500 for the journey.” Explore A’s story.

Safe and legal routes. The only way to the UK.

If you want to come to the UK for a better life, the only way to do so is to come here though safe and legal routes, or regular visa routes.

Find out more on safe and legal routes.