Asylum Seekers - NASS
If you are an asylum seeker and have received an Asylum Registration Card (ARC) from the Border and Immigration Agency (BIA), it is likely that you are receiving some means of support from the National Asylum Support Service (NASS).
NASS provide help to destitute asylum seekers in the way of financial support and housing (if needed), whilst their claims to asylum are being assessed. Following a period in temporary or short term accommodation, asylum seekers are dispersed into NASS accommodation. This accommodation is offered on a No Choice basis which means you cannot actually choose where you want to live. However if you choose to have financial support only (could be termed Subs or Support only) you can choose where you live but you will not be given assistance with housing costs. However if you live with family or friends who are already in NASS or council accommodation you and your family/friend may be breaking your/their tenancy regulations.
As an asylum seeker, you cannot claim mainstream income support or benefits. Your weekly financial support comes directly from NASS. As of March 2008, the figures were as follows:
| Child under 16 |
£47.45 |
| Child aged 16 or 17 |
£35.66 |
| Single person aged 18 to 24 |
£32.80 |
| Single person aged 25 or over |
£41.41 |
| Lone parent aged 18 or over |
£41.41 |
| Qualifying couples |
£64.96 |
If you are an Asylum Seeker:
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You can only do paid work if you have not had a decision on your asylum claim for 6 months. You can only then work if you apply for and are granted Permission to Work. You may also work after being given leave to remain in the UK.
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However, you can do voluntary work.
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You can attend subsidised courses at a college, but not in higher education.
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School age children up to the age of 16 must attend school.
Asylum Decisions
The asylum decision-making process is complex. It is important that you understand the process and what may happen to you and your support when you get a positive or negative decision on your asylum claim. There are people and organisations that can help you fully understand and offer some advice and support. Refugee Action, who provide advice and support to asylum seekers, refugees and partner organisations, is a good example of a national body that also operates locally.