Nottingham City Council has made a further successful bid to the European Refugee Fund to support an integration project, delivered in partnership with Nottingham Hostels Liaison Group.

The majority of asylum seekers live in accommodation that is provided through the Home Office department specifically set up to be responsible for the welfare of asylum seekers (NASS). NASS is also responsible for the dispensing of vouchers to asylum seekers; these vouchers are to cover their daily living expenses and are worth 70% of basic income support. Asylum seekers whose claims for asylum are successful are given "leave to remain" in the UK and are no longer regarded as asylum seekers but are referred to as refugees. These people are faced with a very short timescale in which to leave Home Office accommodation, and with the added problems of language, not having any furniture or other equipment etc need significant support in trying to resettle into permanent accommodation.

Refugees are entitled to benefits and housing on the same basis as anyone else in the UK. When an asylum seeker is granted leave to remain they are required to leave their NASS accommodation and if they are not working will need to make a claim for benefits as they are no longer entitled to vouchers. All asylum seekers who are given leave to remain will be advised to approach Housing Choice and make an application for housing through the City Council. What assistance they receive will depend on their individual circumstances. A significant number will be placed in temporary accommodation whilst permanent housing is secured for them. The role of the Refugee Resettlement Worker is to support individuals and families who are making the transition from being asylum seekers to refugees. This can include:

• helping clients to secure housing and access benefits including community care grants  
• liasing with and referring onto other agencies such as health, education and social services  
• helping clients register for utilities

For more details contact Graham de Max, Asylum/Refugee Co-ordinator, on 915 7399

email: graham.demax@nottinghamcity.gov.uk