Many Refugees are Failed by the System
Failures in the system are causing homelessness and destitution amongst refugees in the UK, according to a new report from the Refugee Council.
The report, entitled ‘28 Days Later: the experiences of new refugees in the UK’, examined the experiences of new refugees between being granted refugee status and the end of their Asylum Support.
Home Office policy currently states that accommodation and cash support for recipients of Asylum Support ends 28 days after being given refugee status.
The Refugee Council is concerned that this transition is too quick, particularly when many refuges speak little English and face many barriers to finding employment and housing.
“Refugees have fled horrifying experiences in their own countries and have lost everything,” commented Refugee Council Advocacy Manager Dr Lisa Doyle, who wrote the report. “When they arrive in the UK, many are met by a complex, hostile asylum system which can leave people living in limbo for years, waiting to have a final decision on their fate”.
“Being finally recognised as a refugee should be a moment to be celebrated. It is unacceptable that the reverse is true and that it is a confusing, chaotic period where people can find themselves on the street, begging for money,” she added.
“The Home Office must urgently review the current system to ensure that vulnerable refugees are not left unsupported,” she concluded.
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