Ministers plan to reduce the time granted to asylum seekers to secure accommodation after a positive decision from 56 days to 28 days. Refugee charities warn that 28 days is insufficient to find work, obtain universal credit, and secure private rental housing, and that the change will increase homelessness and destitution among people granted protection. The British Red Cross and other NGOs predict more rough sleeping and urge a government review. The government argues for faster asylum decisions and hotel closures, but advocates warn expedited moves without support will increase pressure on local authorities and public costs.
Reducing the move-on' period will increase levels of homelessness and destitution for people granted protection and put additional pressure on local authorities. The numbers don't add up. It takes around 35 days to receive universal credit. Local authorities need 56 days to work with households at risk of homelessness. Giving people only 28 days to find work, housing or support isn't enough time. Making people destitute ends up costing the taxpayer more money and causing distress and hardship.
Refugee charities warn that thousands of people in the UK could find themselves homeless on the streets this winter after the Home Office quietly reverse its asylum accommodation policy. The Guardian has learned that ministers are planning to halve the period asylum seekers are given to find new accommodation after getting a decision on their case, from 56 to 28 days. Refugee organisations say this is not enough time to find work and a home to rent.
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