Campaign reply - Will you help close the barracks?

 Thank you for contacting me about asylum accommodation conditions.

 

I know that the Government takes the welfare of people in Home Office care extremely seriously and is fulfilling statutory duties to ensure decent, safe and humane conditions. As you will be aware, the Home Office is required by law to provide asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute with accommodation, paid for by the taxpayer.

 

Home Office providers have different types of accommodation: self contained accommodation and house in multiple occupation (HMO). The former is usually occupied by families who will have sole use of kitchen and bathroom facilities, whereas the latter is usually occupied by single people, couples without children, and/or single parents with specific requirements around access to bathroom and kitchen facilities per occupant. 

 

After looking into this, I have been reassured that those accommodated at these sites have access to appropriate medical care and have access to the 24/7 Migrant Help helpline to raise any issues. Property inspections are also in place to make sure the accommodation is suitable and safe. The accommodation provider is required to inspect the accommodation at least once a month to identify and fix any defects.

 

I will continue to monitor the situation very closely. I welcome the action taken by the Government to ensure the UK continues to meet its obligations and commitments to the most vulnerable people.

 

Once again, thank you for taking the time to write. If you require any further assistance, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.