Refugee Action welcomes the Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration’s report on the Home Office’s asylum intake and casework process.

It finds people are waiting longer for their claims to be processed and highlights issues with the quality of decision-making.

Stephen Hale, chief executive of Refugee Action, says:

“This report must be a turning point. It exposes the Home Office’s failure to make fair and timely decisions for far too many people seeking asylum. Poor decision-making and delays are leaving families facing years of uncertainty, taking a tremendous toll on the wellbeing of people who have fled conflict and persecution. This has to change, and fast.

“Recent figures show an alarming increase of more than 50% in the number of people waiting longer than six months for their claim to be processed. During this time, people are unable to work and struggle to survive on just £5.28 a day.

“People who come to Britain for our protection must have access to a fair and effective asylum system.”

Ends. 

For more information and interviews contact Refugee Action’s press office on media@refugee-action.org.uk or call 07771748159.