What Help Can You Get While Waiting for a Decision?

If you’re seeking asylum in the UK, the waiting period can be stressful, especially if you have no money or place to live. But you’re not on your own. The UK government offers Asylum Support to help people meet their basic needs while their claim is being processed.

This guide explains what support is available, who qualifies, and how to apply.

What Is Asylum Support?

Asylum Support is a government-funded scheme that provides accommodation and financial assistance to asylum seekers who are waiting for a decision on their claim, or who have been refused but cannot leave the UK yet.

You may also get access to:

  • Free NHS healthcare.
  • Free state school education for children.
  • Extra support if you are pregnant or have young children.

What You Might Receive

  • Accommodation is provided by the Home Office if you’re homeless. You cannot choose where you live, and it could be anywhere in the UK. Housing is usually shared with other asylum seekers.
  • Financial Support is £49.18 per person, per week (2025 rate), paid on an ASPEN prepaid card, which can be used in shops or to withdraw cash. For Section 4 support, the ASPEN card can only be used for essential purchases, with no cash withdrawals.
  • Healthcare includes free access to NHS services, including prescriptions (England), dental care, and eye tests. Prescriptions are also free in Scotland and Wales.
  • Education requires children aged 5 to 16 to attend free state school.
  • Maternity Support includes a £300 one-off maternity grant for pregnant women, with extra weekly payments if you’re pregnant or have a child under 3.

Who Is Eligible?

You may qualify for Asylum Support if you have applied for asylum and are waiting for a decision, are destitute with no money or place to live, or have been refused asylum but cannot leave the UK due to health issues or missing travel documents. 

There are two main types of support:

How to Apply

You must apply to the Home Office using the ASF1 (Asylum Support form).

You can get help from:

If You’re Refused Asylum

Even if your asylum claim is refused, you may still receive Section 4 support if you are taking steps to leave the UK but cannot travel yet, are unable to leave due to health issues, or need time to gather travel documents. Section 4 support includes housing and an ASPEN card for essentials, but no cash payments.

Important Notes

  • You must keep the Home Office updated with your address and personal situation.
  • If your support application is refused, you can appeal.
  • Moving into asylum housing may affect any private support or benefits you’re currently receiving.

Where to Get Help

You don’t have to go through this alone. Free advice and support are available from:

Seeking asylum is a serious process that takes time, but you have the right to shelter, safety, and support while your case is considered. If you’re struggling financially or have nowhere to live, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Reach out for advice early, especially if you have children, health concerns, or have been refused asylum but cannot return home.

Don’t Forget

If you’re an asylum seeker, on a low income, or receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for support through government-backed energy schemes like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). These programmes provide free or subsidised insulation and heating upgrades to make homes warmer, safer, and more energy efficient.

Check your eligibility today, it’s quick, free, and could help you save money and stay comfortable all year round.