Accommodation for asylum seekers must allow for safety and dignity, says British Red Cross Director of Migration and Displacement

Responding to the news that the Government is planning to increase the use of military barracks to house people seeking asylum, Sam Turner, British Red Cross Director of Migration and Displacement, said:

“We know from our experience supporting people seeking asylum that it is better for people to be housed in communities where they can integrate, access vital services, and begin to rebuild their lives. Military barracks are often in isolated locations and, by their very nature, can retraumatise people who have fled conflict and persecution.  

“It’s clear that housing people seeking asylum in hotels isn’t working well for anyone, but any alternative accommodation must enable people to live in safety and dignity.”

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About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk