Falkirk Council has received questions from residents about asylum accommodation in the area. Some of the information shared online and in the community has been inaccurate. This page explains what is happening, who is responsible for decisions and how local services are affected. We aim to give clear, factual information so residents understand the situation. 

People seeking asylum come to the UK because they cannot safely return to their home country. Many are fleeing war, political repression or persecution. They must be physically in the UK before they can apply, as there is no asylum visa. 

While their claim is being processed, the Home Office can offer support with housing and money. Across the UK, this often includes short term. 

Asylum seekers do not receive priority for council housing. They cannot apply for a council home at all while their claim for asylum is open. If they are granted refugee status, they must apply through the same housing list and follow the same process as anyone else. 

All costs for the hotel and associated financial support are paid by the Home Office. Individuals are given £9.95 per week if their accommodation provides their meals or £49.18 per week for food, clothing and toiletries if meals are not provided. This money is provided via an Aspen Card. Falkirk Council does not fund the accommodation or any financial support. 

Decisions about where asylum seekers are placed are made by the Home Office, not local councils. Hotels are selected by the Home Office and its accommodation contractor when they meet required standards for safety and suitability. Councils do not choose the locations and cannot block arrangements made by the UK Government. 

Because hotels are used in urgent, temporary situations, decisions are often made quickly. This means there is no opportunity for public consultation before people arrive. 

The Falkirk hotel currently accommodates single adult men in shared rooms. It is not suitable for families or children and no unaccompanied asylum seeking children are placed there.

Residents receive three meals a day, access to WiFi and a small allowance for essential items. Most are not allowed to work while their claim is being assessed, though some may be able to apply for permission after 12 months in limited circumstances. Volunteering is allowed as long as it does not replace paid work. If anyone believes that a resident is working illegally then they can report this to the Home Office

Falkirk Council does not manage the hotel. However, it continues to provide essential services, such as social care and adult support and protection when needed, just as it would for anyone living in the area.

Health professionals visit the hotel to support residents directly, which helps minimise the impact on GP practices. Dental care is limited to emergency treatment only. Schools and council housing are unaffected as all residents are adults and cannot apply for council homes unless they are later granted refugee status.

Before anyone is placed in accommodation, the Home Office carries out identity and security checks. The hotel has 24hour staff and onsite security. Residents are given clear guidance on UK laws and expected standards of behaviour. 

There is no evidence nationally that asylum seekers are more likely to commit crime than the general population. Locally, Police Scotland works closely with all partners and visits the hotel regularly to support safety and build positive relationships. 

Residents are free to come and go during the day, but they must sleep at the hotel each night. 

Life in asylum accommodation is highly restricted. Residents cannot choose where they live, what food is provided, or whether they can work. Many rely on the small weekly allowance to buy essential items. WiFi access helps them stay in touch with legal advisers, the Home Office and family members. 

People are free to practise their religion, and local faith groups may offer support if appropriate.