According to BBC News, government data for England shows the number of refugees at risk of homelessness rising from 3,560 in 2021/22 to 19,310 in 2024/25, amid a backlog of asylum seekers waiting to be housed.
A growing consensus among charities working with homeless refugees points to hostile policies—such as the asylum work ban, limits on public funds, and rapid evictions from statutory accommodation once refugees are recognised—as the root of these challenges.
Last year, JRS UK highlighted the consequences for refugees unable to secure housing in its report Destitute and in Danger: People Made Homeless by the Asylum System. Alarmingly, those seeking sanctuary increasingly endure long periods of rough sleeping, often with devastating consequences.
Joyce, who is now being assisted by JRS UK, spent years on the streets and in insecure accommodation after arriving in the UK. She said:
“For women, it can be even worse because some men take advantage of them because they are vulnerable. They sometimes end up forcing themselves into relationships they don’t want to be in, so they have a roof over their heads.”
Responding to the government data, JRS UK and Westminster Justice and Peace said:
“No one who has already been forced to flee their home should be left without a roof over their head when they arrive here. This Lent, we invite Catholics to pray for our sisters and brothers who are displaced, destitute, and at risk. We also urge people to contact their local representatives about the urgent need for safe, good‑quality accommodation for everyone who finds themselves homeless, including those seeking sanctuary.”
You can read their joint press-release here.
This Lent, Jesuit Refugee Service UK is appealing for support to help women seeking sanctuary access safe accommodation, expert advice, and essential care, as many face homelessness, exploitation, and barriers to vital services because of their immigration status. Please consider donating: JRS UK Lent Appeal 2026
