Asylum seekers contingency accommodation
In recent years, the Home Office has used hotels to house asylum seekers across the country, including in West Northants.
We understand residents have questions about this and the council's role.
Why are asylum seekers staying in hotels?
The Home Office must provide accommodation and support to asylum seekers who would otherwise be homeless while their applications are processed. Due to a large number of asylum claims, they need more places for people to stay.
Dame Angela Eagle, Minister of State for Border Security and Asylum, says:
“It remains our commitment to reduce the costs of asylum accommodation, including ending the use of asylum hotels, but the size of the existing backlog means we are forced to use hotels in the meantime.”
This is taking place all over the country, not just in West Northamptonshire.
Did the council decide to use hotels?
No, the Home Office decides which properties are used.
Who stays in the hotels?
It depends on the needs and pressures within the asylum system. It could be single people or families.
How long will hotels be used?
Hotels are used for short periods only when necessary. Once they are no longer needed, they go through a process to stop using them, which usually takes about 4 to 5 weeks.
Will asylum seekers get permanent housing in West Northamptonshire?
After staying in hotels, asylum seekers move to other temporary accommodation provided by the government while their claims are considered. This could be anywhere in the country and is not provided by the council.
Can asylum seekers use local health services?
Yes, asylum seekers can access local health services just like anyone visiting West Northamptonshire temporarily. The local health board works with providers to manage this.
Can children go to local schools?
Yes, children will have access to education, either at local schools and colleges or through other means depending on their needs.
What security is in place?
Safety and security are very important. There are security personnel at each hotel 24/7. Accommodation providers have policies for health and safety, security, and managing incidents. Security measures are reviewed and adjusted as needed.
Asylum seekers are free to come and go. They receive information about the accommodation and local community, including their responsibilities.
The service provider ensures the site is managed well. The local police are aware and work closely with the council and other agencies.
If you have concerns about noise or behaviour, email [email protected]. For crimes, contact the police by calling 101 or using their online form. Only use 999 for emergencies.
How long have asylum seekers been in the country, and where are they from?
Some asylum seekers are new to the UK, while others have been here for some time. The number of asylum seekers varies depending on global events. Many come from countries experiencing conflict, like Syria.
Most asylum seekers flee to nearby countries and live in camps. In the year to September 2024, many arrived from Afghanistan, Iran, Vietnam, Syria, and Eritrea.
Can asylum seekers claim benefits?
No, asylum seekers cannot claim welfare benefits or work. Those in hotels receive £8.86 per week for essentials.
Are most asylum seekers male?
They are not. Women and girls make up about half of asylum seekers. Often, men travel first because the journey is dangerous, and families follow later in a safer way.
Do asylum seekers stay in the first safe country?
Most stay in nearby countries. Many come to the UK because they have family here or speak the language. They believe the UK is safe and democratic.
There is no legal requirement to claim asylum in a specific country.
Are there illegal asylum seekers?
No, there is no such thing as an illegal asylum seeker. Under international law, anyone can apply for asylum in any country that has signed the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
Last updated 23 April 2025