Trying to bring my 10yr old niece to live with us

[dvjr]

Hi All,
My 10yr old niece was adopted at birth by my parents as her father (my brother) is disabled and her mother under social services. My parents are now divorced, with my mom having custody. My mom suffers from depression and high blood pressure and is finding it very difficult to cope with my niece, especially as my disabled brother still lives with her as well. My parents are now just too old to look after her, my mom 65 and dad 68. We would love for her to come and live with us and if we were living in South Africa she would already be living with us. We've been settled in UK for 15yrs and have a business and house here. Our children are 8yrs and 2yrs. We all have a vey strong bond with my niece and have regular contact. Applied for dependent's visa, but refused as they feel we do not have 'serious and compelling family or other considerations'. Has anyone else had similar experience - what defence do I have under such a subjective ruling?

Also can I complete the appeal form as her sponsor? Any help / ideas much appreciated!!

[avjones]

The test of serious compelling compassionate etc is a very high test to meet, and a difficult hurdle to overcome.

In addition, under the rules, she has to be "living alone", and she clearly isn't.