The ex-soldier who had to pull his own teeth out
HE served his country for 13 years, but this ex-soldier has been left destitute after being declared an illegal immigrant.
He has been sacked from his job and denied benefits.
The ex-corporal, who wants to be identified only by his first name, Anthony, was even forced to pull out his own teeth when they became infected because he was unable to access an NHS dentist. He moved here from Jamaica as a child in 1972 and, as a member of the Windrush generation, given indefinite leave to remain. In 2013 he started a cleaning job after leaving the Army but was sacked for failing immigration checks. He was then refused benefits and failed Home Office checks.
‘I’m embarrassed,’ said the 54year-old from Birmingham.
‘I could’ve been working and earning money. I’ve been made to feel like a criminal.’ The Home Office is looking at his case.