Asylum seekers Face Protests, Repeated Relocations, and Benefit Cuts in UK Hotels
A family seeking refuge in the UK is facing a spiraling crisis of repeated moves, harassment from protesters, and the potential loss of vital support after refusing a government-ordered relocation that would split them across two cities nearly 200 miles apart. The case highlights the precarious existence of many asylum seekers housed in hotels while awaiting decisions on their claims.
Twelve-year-old Shayan, living with her family in an asylum hotel, expressed frustration and fear regarding ongoing protests outside their accommodation. “Me and my friends have always wanted to go up to them and speak to them face-to-face. What is their problem with the kids as well?” she asked. The family,along with othre residents,are hesitant to use the school bus due to concerns about the protesters’ actions. “you never no what [the protesters] will do to the bus,” Shayan explained, adding she fears someone might attempt to board it.
The family’s experience is marked by constant upheaval. Shayan described a life of instability: “Once we get settled in a place, then they move us, and then we’ve got to learn where we come from, like, learn that area, go to a new school, make new friends, and then once we’ve done that, they move us again.”
Recently, Kadir and his family received notice of another relocation, this time to two separate hotels in different cities – Kadir and his baby daughter to one, and Mira, Shayan, and Roman to another.in a desperate attempt to remain together, the family is refusing the move. This defiance has already resulted in Kadir losing his weekly benefit, and they risk being classified as intentionally homeless.
The family’s uncertain future mirrors that of countless asylum seekers navigating the UK’s complex and often challenging system.their case underscores the human cost of prolonged legal processes and the difficulties faced by those seeking safety and stability within the country.
