An Asylum Seeker is a person who comes to the UK and seeks protection from persecution and serious human rights violations. Until they get a decision as to whether they will be granted refugee status and temporary leave to remain, they are known as an asylum seeker. In the UK, this means they are allocated asylum housing (or hotel if housing is unavailable), with limited rights and access to services. Asylum seekers have No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF).

Where to get help

If you have claimed asylum or plan to claim asylum in the UK, you can get help in your language from Migrant Help.

In an emergency you may be able to get help from The British Red Cross.

You can get information about housing and other services from Positive Action in Housing.

You can also get help from The Scottish Refugee Council.