Understanding Asylum Support in the UK: What You Need to Know

If you’ve come to the UK seeking asylum, you might be wondering what kind of help is available while you wait for a decision on your claim. Life can feel uncertain at this point—but the good news is that there is asylum support you may be eligible for. This help is designed to make sure you have a roof over your head and money for essentials like food and clothes. Let’s break it all down in simple terms, so you understand your rights and options.

What Is Asylum Support?

Asylum support is a type of government aid provided to people who are waiting to hear back on their asylum application in the United Kingdom. If you don’t have anywhere to live or enough money to support yourself, you can apply for this support.

Think of it like a lifeline. While you’re unable to work in most cases, asylum support helps cover your basic living needs until the Home Office figures out whether you can stay in the country.

Who Can Apply for Asylum Support?

Not everyone is eligible for this kind of help—but if you fall into one of the categories below, you may qualify. Here’s an easy way to check:

• You’re an asylum seeker who has applied for asylum and is waiting on a decision.
• Your financial situation is limited —you don’t have money, assets, or a place to live.
• Your application hasn’t been refused (or, if it was, you meet certain special conditions—more on this later).

The key thing to remember here is that asylum support is there for people who really need help—so you will need to show that you’re not able to afford basic living costs on your own.

Even if your asylum claim is refused

If your claim was refused and you’ve been told to leave the UK, you may still get some limited support (called Section 4 support) if returning to your country isn’t currently possible—for instance, because it’s unsafe or you’re too ill to travel.

Types of Support Available

So, what kind of help are we talking about, exactly? The UK government offers two primary forms:

• Accommodation — Temporary housing arranged by the Home Office, usually in shared spaces like hostels or flats.
• Financial support — A cash allowance meant to help cover food, toiletries, and clothing.

Let’s talk about each of these a little more closely.

Accommodation Support

If you have no place to stay, the Home Office can provide you with housing. Now, it may not be a luxury flat—but it will give you safety and shelter. Say you’re alone and don’t know anyone in the UK—this kind of help can be a big reassurance.

Just remember, you can’t choose where you’ll live. Housing is assigned based on availability, so you may be placed anywhere in the UK.

Financial Support

In addition to housing, you may receive a weekly allowance. As of 2024, this is £47.39 per person per week. The money is usually given on a special debit card called an Aspen card, which you can use to buy food, clothes, and basic items.

If you’re in full-board accommodation (meaning meals are provided), you’ll get less money since food is already covered.

How to Apply for Asylum Support

Okay, so now you’re probably asking: “How do I actually apply for asylum support?” Good question.

The process can feel overwhelming, but here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Request Asylum

Your first step is to officially apply for asylum in the UK. Once that’s done, you can move forward with your application for support.

Step 2: Prove You’re Destitute

To get support, you’ll need to show that you don’t have the money to pay for essentials—like food or housing. You may be asked to provide documents or information about:

• Your income
• Any assets you own (for example, property)
• Money from friends or family

Think of it like applying for help in any other situation—you have to show that you truly need it.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

The main form you’ll fill out is called ASF1. You can download and print it from the gov.uk website or ask your lawyer or caseworker to help you.

Once completed, you can email or post your form to the Asylum Support team. If it’s urgent—let’s say you’re staying on the street or don’t even have food—you can request emergency support while your application is being reviewed.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

The decision usually takes a few days to a few weeks. If you’ve applied for emergency help, they may provide temporary housing quickly while they look over your full application.

What Happens After You Apply?

If your application is successful, you’ll begin receiving accommodation and/or financial support quickly. Once you’re in the system, here’s what to expect:

• Regular Payments: Weekly money via the Aspen card
• Temporary housing: A place to live while your asylum is being processed
• Healthcare: Free NHS healthcare—for both physical and mental health
• Schooling for your children: If they’re of school age

But if your application is rejected, you can appeal the decision. Make sure you act fast and get advice from your legal representative.

What Is Section 4 Support?

This is a special type of support for people whose asylum claims have already been refused but can’t leave the UK immediately.

This support comes with more conditions, but if you qualify, you’ll get:

• A place to live arranged by the Home Office
• A prepaid Aspen card—though only usable at certain shops to buy essential items

Keep in mind that you can’t use this support as cash—it’s strictly for basic needs.

Common Questions People Ask About Asylum Support

Can I Work While Receiving Asylum Support?

No, in most cases asylum seekers can’t work in the UK while waiting for their claim to be decided. However, if your application takes more than 12 months to process, you may be able to apply for permission to work in specific jobs.

Will I Be Moved From Place to Place?

Possibly. Accommodation is based on availability, and it’s not uncommon for asylum seekers to be moved between temporary housing locations while waiting for long-term solutions.

What If I Have Children?

Good news—children of asylum seekers will be offered schooling just like any other child in the UK. They can even get free school meals depending on your situation.

Is NHS Healthcare Free for Asylum Seekers?

Yes. You can visit your GP, get hospital treatment, and even receive vaccinations at no cost while your claim is being considered.

Final Thoughts: Support While You Wait

Seeking asylum is one of the bravest things someone can do—and the wait for a decision can be long and emotionally tough. Knowing you have access to accommodation, food, and basic health care can take some of the pressure off while you focus on what matters most: staying safe and getting the support you deserve.

If you’re unsure how to start, don’t worry. A legal advisor or charity group like the Refugee Council or Migrant Help can guide you through the process.

Want to Learn More?

You can find more detailed and official information on the UK government’s website right here:

https://www.gov.uk/asylum-support

Whether you’re an asylum seeker, volunteer, or simply curious, understanding how asylum support works helps us create a more compassionate, informed society. If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who might need it!