This report sheds light on the challenges faced by refugees being resettled in the UK. Exploring the connection between poverty, education, health inequalities and housing, it emphasises the role housing plays in shaping the destiny of those on the edge of society. The report highlights that refugees bear a disproportionate burden, often facing multiple challenges and disadvantages when trying to find stable accommodation.

Findings:

Positive resettlement outcomes are linked to access to social housing, key‑worker and English‑language support, recognition of qualifications, and aid from charities and refugee networks.

Homelessness is a particular risk for refugees who have achieved status through the asylum system. Research suggests that the instances of homelessness have typically appeared far fewer for refugees who have been part of an organised resettlement scheme.

Factors like short 28-day move-on periods, welfare reforms, the Right to Rent policy, and family reunification processes significantly increase housing insecurity for refugees going through the asylum system.

The responsibility for the resettlement and housing of refugees is dispersed across Government departments, local authorities and civil society. This causes unnecessary duplication, gaps and inefficiencies in the system, which in turn causes negative outcomes for refugees.

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