An asylum seeker has called on the UK government to close asylum hotels and instead grant work rights to those awaiting decisions, saying many are “tired of sitting idle” and want the chance to contribute to society.
Speaking from a temporary accommodation facility in northern England, the asylum seeker, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, expressed frustration over the government’s prolonged use of hotels as holding centers.
“Close the hotels and let us work,” he said. “We didn’t come here to live off taxpayers. We want to support ourselves and be part of the community.”
The UK Home Office has faced mounting criticism for its handling of the asylum system, particularly its reliance on hotel accommodation, which currently houses tens of thousands of people at a cost exceeding £8 million per day.
While many asylum seekers are left in limbo for months or even years, they remain legally barred from working a policy that critics say fosters isolation, mental health challenges, and public resentment.
“I have skills,” the asylum seeker added. “Back home I was a carpenter. I could be helping to build homes here, paying taxes. Instead, I’m just waiting.”
Charities and human rights groups have echoed these concerns. Enver Solomon, CEO of the Refugee Council, said in a recent statement: “People seeking asylum want to work, to rebuild their lives with dignity. Preventing them from doing so benefits no one.”
The government has defended its policy, saying it aims to discourage abuse of the asylum system and reduce pressure on public services. However, growing public support for reform has led some MPs to push for a review of the current work ban, especially amid ongoing labor shortages in key sectors.
As debates continue in Westminster, voices from inside the system like that of the unnamed asylum seeker are calling for urgent change.
“Give us the chance to stand on our own,” he said. “We came here for safety and dignity not dependency.”