The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) and the Border People Project have launched a new online resource, Frontier Workers Case Studies, to help cross-border workers understand their rights after Brexit.

The resource contains six case studies based on common situations faced by frontier workers, who live in one country and work in another while returning home regularly. It explains how cross-border social security, healthcare and benefit entitlements operate in practice.

The booklet was written by Dr Sylvia de Mars of Newcastle University, with assistance from advisers at North Connacht & Ulster Citizens Information Service and Community Advice Newry, Mourne and Down. It builds on an independent research report, Frontier Workers and their Families: Rights After Brexit, turning legal analysis into practical guidance.

The resource includes template appeal letters to support individuals and advisers challenging decisions on benefits and entitlements. It also explores human rights protections under Article 2 of the Windsor Framework, which ensures certain equality and human rights protections in Northern Ireland are not diminished because of Brexit.

Alyson Kilpatrick, chief commissioner of NIHRC, said frontier workers make an invaluable contribution to society and the economic and social life of communities across the island of Ireland. She added that it is essential they are aware of their rights and know where to turn for support. She expressed hope the resource will help bridge the gap between academic work and lived experience.

Annmarie O'Kane, assistant director at the Border People Project, said the case studies are highly representative of issues presented to the project over many years and reflect the lived experiences of many people with cross-border lives. She said she hopes they will be a valuable resource for individuals and a practical guide for advice sector organisations.