Statement on concerns over the use of military bases to house people seeking asylum

Alex Fraser, British Red Cross UK Director Refugee Support & Restoring Family Links, said:

"By their very nature, military bases are not an appropriate place for people seeking asylum to be sent to. Many will have fled unimaginable horrors, including conflict, persecution and imprisonment in their home country, before seeking sanctuary here in the UK.

"We have visited one site to understand what level of welfare and health support people can access, and what we can do to ensure that everyone has the appropriate information and support, access to legal advice and essential practical items including winter clothing.

"We'll continue to liaise with the Home Office to ensure that the risk of further trauma to those staying on these sites is reduced, while urging the government to find alternative, safe, more humane accommodation options."

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