UK Asylum Seekers: 6 Benefits Available to Those Staying With Friends or Family

LONDON — Eligible asylum seekers in the UK may be able to leave Home Office accommodation and stay with friends or relatives under government guidance outlining six forms of support available to them.

The guidance applies to asylum seekers who have a suitable alternative place to live with friends or family members in Britain.

According to the guidance, moving to a friend or relative’s home does not affect the outcome of an asylum claim. Eligible asylum seekers can also continue to receive weekly financial support for food and other essential items.

The six key provisions are:

1. Alternative accommodation with friends or family

Asylum seekers can stay with friends or relatives already living in the UK if the accommodation has enough space and the person is prepared to host them.

2. Weekly financial support continues

Moving out of Home Office accommodation does not automatically end weekly financial assistance for eligible asylum seekers. The support can continue to help cover food and other essential needs.

3. Greater access to personal support

Living with people they already know can allow asylum seekers to be closer to their friends or relatives and receive personal support while awaiting a decision on their claims.

4. Freedom to prepare their own food

Asylum seekers staying with friends or family can have greater control over their meals and may cook their own food.

5. Support with moving-related travel

Eligible applicants may also receive assistance with the cost of travelling to the new address, according to the UK guidance.

6. No impact on asylum claim

Moving from Home Office accommodation to suitable accommodation with friends or family will not affect the outcome of an asylum application.

Despite these provisions, asylum seekers cannot simply move without notifying the authorities.

They should first confirm with their friends or relatives that they are willing and able to provide accommodation.

The applicant must then contact Migrant Help on 0808 8010 503 and provide the address of the proposed accommodation. Migrant Help will submit the request to the Home Office for consideration.

Additional information may be requested from both the asylum seeker and the prospective host before a decision is made.

Applicants are required to wait for confirmation before moving. The guidance warns that asylum seekers who move without informing Migrant Help could lose their financial support.

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