re—course: simulated hearing program

Matthew House has developed a unique simulated hearing program to help refugees prepare for their hearing with the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). Every refugee claimant in the country is required to participate in one of these hearings which ultimately determines their status and future in Canada.

WHY IT’S NEEDED

Refugee claimants arrive at our border without sponsors or status, seeking the protection of Canada. Currently there is no official system in place to welcome or assist them. They are greatly in need of help at many levels. One key area is with respect to preparing for their refugee hearing with the IRB. 

THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY

A refugee claimant's hearing at the IRB is one of the most important days of their life.  If they fail this hearing, they are at risk of being deported back to their country of origin, where they face persecution. While they are entitled to the help of a lawyer, legal aid can be challenging to access and few have the opportunity to truly practice before their hearing takes place.

Developed by a former refugee claimant, RE—COURSE is a free program that provides refugee claimants with an opportunity to practice through a simulated hearing. The program is entirely virtual and mimics the conditions of the IRB hearing itself. Participants report feeling more confident and capable after practicing with RE—COURSE volunteers regardless of the outcome of their hearing.

Visit Refugeerecourse.ca to participate or refer a participant, to volunteer, or to support the RE—COURSE program.