Sanctuary strategy Plans to do more to support asylum-seekers

HALF of the people in Bristol seeking asylum are children, with the majority living in three hotels.

- Alex SEABROOK Local democracy reporter [e-mail]

And while other councils are trying to get an injunction blocking the Home Office from using hotels in their area, Bristol City Council is about to consult the public on extra support for asylum seekers. This includes more English lessons, free sim cards and advice on how to get GP appointments.

People seeking asylum cannot get legal work while they wait for the Home Office to process their claims, and can struggle to settle into life in the UK. The draft sanctuary strategy was discussed by the children and young people policy committee on Thursday.