Asylum Seekers Support
The Council has a statutory responsibility to offer assistance to asylum seekers under the Asylum and Immigration Act 1999.
However, following changes in the law due to the Immigration and Asylum Act of 1999, asylum seekers who apply at the port of entry after April 2000 or who apply in-country after July 2000 no longer have a right to assistance and do not have to be provided for by the Council. Instead, the Home Office provides support through the National Asylum Support Service (NASS).
The Asylum and Access Unit
The Asylum and Access Unit (AAU) deals with all aspects of Asylum and Immigration matters, for Families, single Adults, and for minors between the ages of 16 to 18 who have arrived in this country alone.
As the Home Office (NASS) have now taken responsibility for those claiming Asylum as they arrive in the United Kingdom, our work consists of helping those who have entered the UK with a Visa, and who have stayed in the country once the Visa has expired, and do not have recourse to public funds.
People without recourse to public funds
If your visa has expired, and you do not have access to public funds, we may be able to provide temporary accommodation and financial support. You will be allocated a caseworker, who will keep in touch by making regular home visits, and provide information on adult education, doctor and dental surgeries, and local solicitors.
When you are granted Leave to Remain in the UK, you become entitled to public support, and advice is given regarding Income Support / Job Seekers Allowance and referral is made to the relevant local authority for further accommodation. Our support stops at this stage.
Youth Asylum Team
Similar help is available for minors between 16 and 18 years old, who have arrived in this country alone. This provided by the Youth Asylum Team. Government guidelines and legislation are followed.
Clients are placed in managed temporary accommodation, with regular visits, and an emphasis is placed on education and health matters.
Regular contact is maintained with the client, and further advice is given when the client receives their Leave to Remain in the UK.
Contact us
For further information about services provided by the Asylum and Access Team please telephone 0208 356 6024.
Page updated: 25 Jan 2008