We have put together this common list of questions and answers about asylum seekers and refugees and housing…
When are refugees and people seeking asylum entitled to housing assistance?
Adults and families who are seeking asylum in the UK may be entitled to accommodation while they are waiting for a decision on their asylum application. This accommodation is provided by the Home Office as soon as they make their asylum application.
When someone receives refugee status, they are eligible to apply for housing assistance in the area they received their decision.
If someone arrives in Liverpool through a Refugee Resettlement Scheme their accommodation will usually be organised before they arrive in the UK. This may be by the Local Authority or a community hosting placement they have arranged themselves. Previously central government has also provided accommodation as part of an emergency response.
Do refugees and people seeking asylum get priority housing?
Having refugee status does not mean a person is considered a priority need for housing and residents that get their refugee status in Liverpool will go through the same process as other residents in need of housing assistance.
Who pays for accommodation for refugees and people seeking asylum?
The Home Office provides and pays for accommodation for adults and families seeking asylum. Unaccompanied minors who are seeking asylum will be entitled to Local Authority accommodation, provided and paid for by Children’s Services.
Residents who receive their refugee status in Liverpool are entitled to work and access benefits and they will either pay their accommodation costs themselves or through benefits, the same as other residents.
The Council receives funding from central government for accommodation and support for residents on Refugee Resettlement Schemes and for unaccompanied mi.
Why does the Council provide accommodation to refugees?
The Council has a responsibility to provide housing assistance to anyone who is eligible and applies. It is important that we do this fairly and efficiently for all residents.
The Council receives funding from Central government to provide accommodation to some refugees on resettlement schemes, and it is important that we fulfil our obligations.
Further information
More information about the asylum process can be found at https://righttoremain.org.uk/toolkit/
