Hounslow has the second-highest number of asylum seekers living in hotels of any local authority area in the country.
In 2022/23, there were around 2,302 people seeking asylum in our borough, with nearly 70 per cent (1,591) living in hotels.
Late last year, the council’s annual public health report exposed the stark reality of the unacceptable and unsafe conditions facing many asylum seekers living in such local, Home Office-funded contingency hotels.
‘On hold, the lived experiences of asylum seekers in Hounslow’s contingency hotels’ presents an urgent call to action.
It exposes the grim reality of cramped living conditions, inadequate nutrition, limited healthcare access, and the overall lack of meaningful opportunities for those placed in hotel accommodation – where families struggle with poor-quality microwaved food in cramped quarters, sometimes for months or even years.
Impacts outlined in the report are both alarming and potentially costly, ranging from physical health issues – such as gestational diabetes because of poor nutrition – to severe mental health challenges such as depression and even suicidal thoughts.
The toll on mental health is evident, with adults experiencing distress and depression, while young children are deprived of safe spaces to play and develop. One disturbing case study highlights the plight of a withdrawn four-year-old child, who refuses to leave their hotel room and shows signs of clinical depression.
I commend the extensive work of our Public Health Director, Kelly O’Neill, and her team, who have highlighted the impact that living in contingency hotels has on the health and wellbeing of asylum seekers.
To take no action would be a grave failing by us all.
Representing the voices of many who are often terrified to speak of their experiences for fear of the upshot on their asylum case, it is profoundly disturbing to read the findings of the report. What struck me most is the plea for humanity and compassion.
Many asylum seekers will eventually become citizens and neighbours, and it’s our duty to support them in leading fulfilling lives.
The report exposes the flaws in the current immigration system, and a government-led contingency scheme that perpetuates misery and missed opportunities for vulnerable individuals, especially children.
Its 15 recommendations point towards a comprehensive approach to address the physical and mental health challenges faced by asylum seekers.
While the Government has announced the closure of 50 asylum hotels – none of which are in our borough – the Home Office is increasing capacity in asylum hotels in Hounslow. This means, in many cases, two unrelated people will be living in the same room.
These plans are unsustainable and, frankly, a piecemeal approach. It’s time for the Government to work with local authorities to provide asylum accommodation on a non-profit basis.
In a letter to the then Immigration Minister, Robert Jenrick, in November 2022 – and in a following letter in February 2023 – the council raised concerns about health and safeguarding issues, and the significant pressure on budgets in the absence of additional funding to meet the full cost of providing local services to asylum seekers. This is on top of existing urgent housing needs in the short and longer terms.
We look forward to hearing from the Home Office and working together on a longer-term plan – one that is fair, more effective and provides the funding needed for local areas to plan for demand within already stretched budgets and services.
‘On hold, the lived experiences of asylum seekers in Hounslow’s contingency hotels’ is available on Hounslow Council's website.