My name is Chioma, and my journey to procuring a UK Health and Care Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) is marked by profound disappointment and regret. After years of dreaming about a new life in the UK, I finally received a COS for a promising role in a reputable care facility. The excitement of moving to a new country and starting a fresh chapter in my life was palpable.
The process seemed straightforward initially. I obtained my COS in April and prepared for the transition, investing close to ₦2 million in various costs—exams, visa applications, relocation and accommodation—I was overjoyed when the COS arrived. It felt like the breakthrough my family and I had been waiting for. My departure was filled with hope and anticipation, believing this was the opportunity I had worked so hard for.
However, upon arriving in Birmingham UK, I encountered several unexpected obstacles. The care home that had issued the COS which was owned by Nigerians, was plagued with internal problems and was unable to offer me the promised employment. Despite repeated assurances, I waited for months without any shifts or work opportunities. My initial optimism quickly turned into anxiety as I watched my savings erode and my financial stability crumble.
The situation worsened when I learned that the care home had issues with its accreditation and had to retract the COS offer. The promises made to me were empty, and I found myself in a dire situation, struggling to make ends meet without any job prospects. Right now I am in limbo. I am looking for any available COS that I can lay my hands on so that I don’t get deported. I sleep practically on Indeed and I have sent out over 500 CVs with no luck. All I have been getting is ‘Unfortunately’ Left, Right and Centre. I am broke, tired, frustrated and cursing the day I received this fraudulent COS from this wayo company that has put me in this unfortunate situation.
What did I learn from this harrowing experience? First, always ensure that the employer providing the COS is reputable and reliable. Verify their status and track record to avoid falling victim to false promises. Second, If you are being offered a COS owned by a Nigerian, be very careful. Most of them are Special purpose Vehicles set up to scam and defraud you. Most of them don’t have shifts and most of them won’t pay you well. Shine your eyes when dealing with COS operators in the UK. They are just setting you up for unimaginable pain and sorrow. Third, maintain financial prudence and avoid depleting your savings based on uncertain outcomes.
My fellow Japastreeters, Chioma’s story underscores the critical importance of thorough research and financial planning when pursuing job opportunities abroad. The excitement of receiving a COS should not overshadow the need for caution and preparation. Learn from these experiences to protect yourself from similar pitfalls and ensure a smoother transition to your new life.
