Financial Support for Refugees, Asylum Seekers, and Those with Limited Leave to Remain

The process of seeking asylum, gaining refugee status, or securing limited leave to remain in a new country can be challenging and uncertain. One of the most pressing concerns for individuals going through these experiences is financial security. While navigating an unfamiliar legal system and trying to rebuild their lives, refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain often face significant financial hardships.

Understanding the financial support available in such situations can make a world of difference. This article explores the various types of financial assistance, housing support, and employment resources available for refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain, with a focus on the UK context.

1. Defining Key Terms: Refugees, Asylum Seekers, and Limited Leave to Remain

Before delving into financial support, it’s essential to clarify the distinctions between refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals with limited leave to remain, as their access to resources can vary.

• Asylum Seekers: Individuals who have fled their home country and are seeking protection in another country but are awaiting a decision on their asylum application. Asylum seekers are typically not allowed to work and have limited access to public funds.
• Refugees: Individuals who have been granted asylum or protection under international refugee law. Refugees have more extensive rights, including access to benefits, employment, and housing support.
• Limited Leave to Remain (LLR): Individuals with this status have been granted permission to stay in the UK for a limited time but do not yet have full rights associated with permanent residency or refugee status. Their access to public funds and services may be restricted depending on the terms of their leave.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial because financial assistance varies based on a person’s immigration status.

2. Financial Support for Asylum Seekers

Asylum seekers face numerous financial challenges, particularly because they are typically prohibited from working while awaiting a decision on their asylum claim. To help with their basic needs, the UK government offers limited financial assistance through the Asylum Support System, managed by the Home Office.

Asylum Support (Section 95 Support)

Asylum seekers who can demonstrate that they are destitute are eligible for Section 95 Asylum Support, which provides financial assistance to cover basic living expenses. Key elements of Section 95 support include:

• Weekly Allowance: Asylum seekers receive a cash allowance of £45 per person per week to cover essential items such as food, clothing, and toiletries. Pregnant women and children may receive additional financial support to cover extra needs.
• Housing: Asylum seekers who qualify for Section 95 support are also provided with free accommodation, but they do not have the right to choose where they live. Housing is typically located in shared accommodation or temporary facilities.

Additional Support for Vulnerable Asylum Seekers

In addition to Section 95 support, there are special provisions for particularly vulnerable asylum seekers, including pregnant women, new mothers, and individuals with serious health conditions.

• Maternity Grants: Pregnant women can apply for a one-off maternity grant of £300 to help cover costs associated with the birth of a child.
• Section 98 Support: This is short-term financial support provided to asylum seekers while their application for Section 95 support is being processed. It is typically for individuals who are immediately destitute and need emergency assistance.

Employment Restrictions for Asylum Seekers

Asylum seekers are generally not allowed to work while their application is under review. However, in some circumstances, they may apply for permission to work if they have been waiting more than 12 months for a decision on their case. If granted, asylum seekers are limited to jobs on the Shortage Occupation List, which includes specialized roles where there is a labor shortage, such as certain healthcare positions.

3. Financial Support for Refugees

Once an asylum seeker is granted refugee status, they gain access to a broader range of financial support services, similar to those available to UK citizens. Refugees are also permitted to work and access public funds to help them integrate and establish stability.

Universal Credit

Refugees are eligible for Universal Credit, a government welfare benefit that replaces several previous forms of financial assistance, including Housing Benefit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Income Support. Universal Credit is designed to help cover living expenses for individuals who are unemployed or on a low income.

• Eligibility: Refugees can apply for Universal Credit immediately after being granted refugee status. The amount of Universal Credit awarded depends on factors such as income, savings, and family size.
• Application Process: To apply, refugees need to create an online account, submit their identification and immigration documents, and attend an interview at their local Jobcentre.

Child Benefit

If refugees have children under the age of 16 (or under 20 if in full-time education), they may also be eligible for Child Benefit, which provides financial support to help cover child-related costs.

• Weekly Rates: The current rate is £24 per week for the first child and £15.90 for each additional child.
• Automatic Eligibility: Refugees automatically qualify for Child Benefit once they are granted refugee status, provided they meet other eligibility criteria.

Housing Support

Refugees have the same rights to housing support as UK citizens. If they are homeless or at risk of homelessness, they can apply for housing assistance through their local council. Housing benefits may cover part or all of the cost of renting a property, depending on the refugee’s financial situation.

• Social Housing: Refugees can apply for social housing, which is government-funded accommodation available to those in need. However, demand for social housing is high, and waiting lists can be long.
• Private Renting: Refugees can also rent privately and may be eligible for financial support through the Local Housing Allowance (LHA), which helps cover the cost of rent.

4. Financial Support for Individuals with Limited Leave to Remain (LLR)

Individuals with Limited Leave to Remain have different financial support options depending on the conditions of their leave. Some may have access to public funds, while others may have a No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) condition, restricting their ability to claim benefits.

No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF)

If an individual has been granted Limited Leave to Remain with an NRPF condition, they are not entitled to most government welfare benefits, including Universal Credit, housing support, and Child Benefit. However, there are still some forms of support available:

• Access to Employment: Individuals with Limited Leave to Remain are typically allowed to work. Employment is often the primary means of financial support for people with NRPF status.
• Charitable Support: Many charities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide support to individuals with NRPF. These organizations may offer food banks, housing advice, legal assistance, and emergency financial aid.
• Education Support: Children of individuals with NRPF are entitled to free education, and there are certain programs to support families with school meals, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.

Changing NRPF Conditions

In some cases, individuals with Limited Leave to Remain can apply to have the NRPF condition lifted if they can demonstrate that they are destitute or at risk of destitution. This process involves submitting evidence of financial hardship, such as bank statements, bills, or housing costs.

If successful, individuals can then access public funds and apply for welfare benefits like Universal Credit or housing support.

5. Additional Support and Resources

In addition to government assistance, there are several charities, NGOs, and community organizations that provide vital support to refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals with Limited Leave to Remain.

Refugee Council

The Refugee Council is one of the leading organizations providing advice, advocacy, and practical support to refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. They offer help with housing, employment, legal assistance, and mental health services.

British Red Cross

The British Red Cross provides emergency support, including financial assistance, food, and temporary accommodation, to asylum seekers and refugees in crisis situations. They also offer family reunification services for refugees separated from their loved ones.

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice offers free, confidential advice on a range of topics, including immigration status, welfare benefits, housing, and employment rights. Refugees and individuals with Limited Leave to Remain can contact them for help navigating financial challenges.

Local Community Groups and Food Banks

Many local community organizations and food banks offer essential services to asylum seekers, refugees, and those with Limited Leave to Remain. These groups often provide food parcels, clothing, and emergency financial aid for those struggling to meet basic needs.

Conclusion

Financial support for refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals with Limited Leave to Remain can be complex, but understanding the available options is crucial for navigating the challenges of starting a new life in the UK. Whether through government programs like Universal Credit, housing assistance, or charitable support, there are resources in place to help these individuals overcome financial hardships. As they work to rebuild their lives, it’s essential that they access the support they are entitled to, while organizations and communities continue to provide much-needed assistance and advocacy.