It may surprise you to learn that the practice of giving vouchers to asylum seekers instead of cash has again become widespread. In 2001, the government ended its policy of giving asylum seekers vouchers instead of cash. However, since then it has begun steadily increasing the number of asylum seekers receiving voucher only support.
Asylum seekers who are given vouchers are on what is known as Section 4 support, a kind of support given to people whose asylum claims have been refused but who are unable to return home, or waiting to do so, or who have lodged a fresh claim that is under consideration. These are people who are co-operating with the asylum system, and who are still in the country through no fault of their own.
The Refugee Council has recently released a report detailing the devastating impact forcing people to live on vouchers has had. People are hungry and in poor health. They are forced to walk miles to the nearest supermarket that will accept the vouchers, as they have no cash for public transport. Families are struggling to buy nappies and other provisions for their babies, and some are so desperate they are exchanging £35 in vouchers for £25 in cash.
No-one should be forced to survive on vouchers. Everyone should be entitled to cash support, and should be allowed to work to support themselves. Help us campaign to end this inhumane practice.
More Token Gestures: read the Refugee Council's report on the impact of Section 4 Vouchers
