By Giuseppe De Santis
Recent data has indicated a significant increase in the number of asylum seekers living in taxpayer-funded accommodations, which has raised concerns among the public. This surge in numbers has led to a substantial financial burden on taxpayers. While many asylum seekers are currently housed in hotels, the number residing in ‘dispersal accommodation’ has now outstripped this figure. By the end of December, approximately 38,000 people were staying in hotels at a daily cost of £5.5 million, while around 66,000 individuals were accommodated in privately rented homes, often shared among multiple occupants.
The Home Office asserts that dispersal accommodations are a more economical choice than hotels, but this has led to discontent among citizens facing a shortage of social housing. Recent reports have also highlighted that some of these homes include newly built properties with high market values and luxurious amenities, raising questions about their allocation. For instance, four townhouses in Suffolk are valued at £300,000 each and come with luxuries such as en-suite bathrooms and electric vehicle charging points.
In the wider district council area, nearly 800 individuals are on the waiting list for council or housing association homes, prompting local residents to inquire why these properties aren’t being redirected to social housing authorities. Landlords can earn substantial returns from these agreements, as one property listing indicated a rent of £1,200 per month, totalling £72,000 over five years. The company Serco, which manages these properties, guarantees uninterrupted rent payments and handles the logistics of housing asylum seekers during their application processes.
Additionally, Serco provides maintenance, repairs, and ensures the homes remain habitable, while also covering council tax and utility bills, all of which are funded by taxpayers. This arrangement is viewed as financially advantageous for landlords, with Serco operating in various regions across the UK.
As the demand for housing continues to rise among British people, many express that the current situation regarding the allocation of these homes is troubling. Despite the prevailing concerns, major political parties have not proposed significant changes to address the issue. This lack of political action has left many feeling frustrated. It underscores the urgency of the housing situation.
The British Democrats will be publishing a new housing policy this month.
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