Asylum Seekers
Since January 2022, the Evesham Hotel has been a place of refuge for asylum seekers, managed by SERCO under contract from the Home Office. We welcome both individuals and families who have fled their countries due to war, persecution, or fear for their lives. Many of our guests come from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Read More
Understanding Asylum Seekers
Asylum seekers are not illegal immigrants. Under the UN 1967 Refugee Protocol, all countries are required to protect people fleeing danger in their home countries. Unlike government-supported resettlement schemes for groups such as Syrians and Afghans, these individuals arrive independently, often with nothing.
Life as an Asylum Seeker
Though asylum seekers are provided accommodation and food, they receive less than £9 per week for living expenses if residiing in a hotel or less than £50 if they live in the community and have to buy all their own food . They are entitled to NHS healthcare and some dental care. However, daily life remains a struggle without the right to work or access to mainstream benefits.
Refugees
Refugees are people who have been granted Leave to Remain in the UK by our Home Office. They can either be people who have been successful through the asylum process, or people who have arrived here via one of the Government supported schemes, such as Homes for Ukraine, the two Afghan support schemes, the UK Resettlement Scheme, or the Hong Kong support scheme. Refugees are usually initially given 5 years limited Leave to Remain in the first instance, which can then be converted to Indefinite Leave to Remain and eventually citizenship. Refugees have ‘Recourse to Public Funds’ which means they can apply for housing, benefits and other support, but can also work and be properly involved in their communities.
How do we support them?
We know that starting over in a new country can be overwhelming, so we provide both practical support and safe spaces for learning, connection, and growth. Whether someone needs help with legal advice, accessing healthcare, learning English, or simply finding a friendly place to belong — we are here to help.
Our core services include support with housing, healthcare, schooling, clothing, legal advice, transport to important appointments, and more. Alongside these, we run a number of regular community projects that bring people together to learn new skills, build confidence, and form friendships.
With support from the District Council and donations from our generous community, we provide all these support services and more for refugees and asylum seekers.
