Hackney Council launches service to help asylum seekers

There about 800 asylum seekers in Hackney awaiting the outcome of their refugee claims, the council says

A new service to support asylum seekers is being launched by Hackney Council.

It is offering up to £100,000 in funding for non-profit organisations to help deliver a year-long outreach programme.

There are about 800 asylum seekers living in Home Office accommodation in the borough awaiting the outcome of their refugee claims, the council said.

The Hackney CVS migrant forum welcomed the funding, saying grassroots bodies are "uniquely placed" to help.

A council spokesperson said the service was being launched to build better relationships between asylum seekers and providers of local services.

'Proud history'

Organisations awarded the grant will deliver the service with the council's refugees, migrants and asylum seekers team.

Councillor Carole Williams, cabinet member for employment, human resources and equalities, said Hackney had a "proud history of welcoming refugees and migrants".

"Asylum seekers in Hackney need access to education, healthcare and social opportunities, just as any other resident in the borough does," she said.

"The support service will be vital in providing help to overcome the challenges."

Soraya Akrouche, refugee and migrant forum co-ordinator at Hackney CVS, said the borough's community refugee organisations had a "grassroots understanding" of the issues asylum seekers face.

Some of the challenges identified include limited income, language barriers and adapting to an unfamiliar place and system, the council said.

Mrs Akrouche added: "Hackney is known for its multiculturalism, diversity and tolerance."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]