Asylum seeker poverty and bail reporting change activism

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of research that led to change activism in support of asylum seeker rights in Stoke-on-Trent in the UK. In 2018, the Government disbanded localised asylum bail reporting procedures leading to asylum seekers based in Stoke-on-Trent having to travel to Salford (approximately 100-mile-round-trip) for Home Office reporting. Interview research with 19 paid or unpaid professionals working with, or on behalf of, asylum seekers at operational and strategic levels provided evidence of significant issues faced by asylum seekers based on this policy and procedure change. Poor mental health, racism, increased poverty and gender inequality, modern slavery and exploitation risks and children’s education were compromised and exacerbated by changes to reporting proceedings. Evidence also demonstrated the changes to reporting arrangements led to resource implications for local services in Stoke-on-Trent and the Home Office itself. Findings were suggestive of Human Rights, Equality and Public Health concerns, alongside highlighting practice that stigmatises victims in a criminogenic way. Reinstating localised reporting was supported by all participants and researchers advocated for the Home Office to also consider tele-reporting options.