European Refugee Fund
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.
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. 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