Helpful Definitions
Who is an asylum seeker?
An asylum seeker is someone who has lodged an application for protection on the basis of the 1951 Refugee Convention or Article 3 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR). The UK has, like most countries in the world (currently 148), signed up to the Refugee Convention, so asylum seekers have a right to claim asylum here. Asylum seeker are those who are still awaiting a final decision on their claim. If someone has claimed asylum, they are not an illegal immigrant.
Who is a refugee?
A refugee is a person who, owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular group, or political opinion, is outside the country of their nationality an is unable to or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail themselves of the protection of that country. In other words, a refugee is someone who has claimed asylum and their claim has been accepted. This means they have the right to stay in the country.
Who is an Internally Displaced person (idp)?
An internally displaced person is someone who has felt forced to leave their home but has not crossed into another country.
WHO IS A REFUSED ASYLUM SEEKER?
A person whose initial claim for asylum has been unsuccessful, but who usually has the right to submit a fresh claim or appeal. At this point they are likely to be homeless and destitute. Some refused asylum seekers who have sufficient documentation can voluntarily return home, others are forcibly returned and for some it is not safe or practical for them to return until conditions in their country change. This is recognised by the UK Government, but they are thus left in limbo - sometimes for the rest of their lives.
Who is an economic migrant?
Someone who has travelled to another country to work or seek a better way of life. Most of those currently in UK are from EU countries such as Poland or the Czech Republic, so at the moment they have the right to live and work here. Those from outside the EU have to obtain a work visa.
Who is an ‘Illegal’ or ‘Bogus’ asylum seeker?
There is no such thing as an ‘illegal’ or ‘bogus’ asylum seeker. Under international law, anyone has the right to apply for asylum in any country that has signed the 1951 Refugee Convention and to remain there until the authorities have assessed their claim. It is recognised in the 1951 Convention that people fleeing persecution may have to use irregular means in order to escape and claim asylum in another country – there is no legal way to travel to the UK for the specific purpose of seeking asylum.
Questions about Hosting
What is Hosting?
A host provides an asylum seeker or refugee with temporary accommodation usually in the form of a spare room in their house. Hosting is flexible, fitting around the host families routine. Hosting is supported by the staff at Host Nottingham, so you and your guest will be supported during the entirety of the hosting.
Is Hosting legal?
Yes, hosting is legal. It does not affect any council tax benefits and all guests are required to comply with immigration laws.
Do I have to cook for my guest?
No. Host Nottingham does however expect that the guest will have access to cooking facilities within your home. Some hosts decide to cook and eat with their guests and others provide cooking facilities for the guest to cook their own food.
How will I be supported when hosting?
Each Host will have an induction session with the Co-ordinator, and a chance to air any concerns they may have. We will facilitate support meetings for hosts, where hosts can meet other hosts, share experiences, support each other and discuss how the process is working. All hosts will be given information of activities for people to do during the day, and details of other support and advice agencies in Nottingham. The Co-ordinator will also meet regularly with hosts and guest to provide one to one support during placements. There is a 24/7 telephone number to call should you need it.
Further FAQ's
Who can be referred to host?
Our principle aim is to provide accommodation for single destitute asylum seekers. We will not normally place young female guests in all male households, nor single male guests in houses with teenage girls. If you have any concerns or preferences to a female or male guest please discuss this with the project Co-ordinator.
What can I do If I can't Host but would like to help?
We have lots of other volunteering opportunities within host, please see the "get involved" page.
Alternatively, do give us a call and we would be more than happy to talk with you about further volunteering opportunities.
If you don't fancy any current Host volunteering opportunities, check out our resources page for other local organisations with a wide range of volunteering options.
Alternatively, do give us a call and we would be more than happy to talk with you about further volunteering opportunities.
If you don't fancy any current Host volunteering opportunities, check out our resources page for other local organisations with a wide range of volunteering options.
Still Got Questions?
Please get in touch via email of call us for a chat. We'd love to hear from you.
