Housing, Health and Hope: Experiences of living in and moving on from asylum accommodation

Healthwatch Southwark examines the health impacts of living in and moving on from Home Office asylum accommodation for newly recognised refugees. It was prompted by evidence that the move-on period represents a time of heightened housing insecurity, alongside growing recognition of housing as a key determinant of physical and mental health. 

The research explored lived experiences of people who had recently moved, or are expecting to move, out of asylum accommodation after receiving a decision on their asylum claim. It involved workshops with refugees and asylum seekers, as well as interviews with staff and volunteers from voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations and health services. In total, 30 people with lived experience and 11 people who work with them participated. Engagement was delivered in nine languages with interpreter support. 

Findings show that the move-on period is widely experienced as highly stressful and destabilising. Short notice periods, lack of timely and accessible information, and limited affordable housing in Southwark place many people at high risk of homelessness, particularly single adults without dependants. Even participants who are not affected by digital, literacy or language barriers struggled to secure housing after receiving refugee status. Experiences of street homelessness and unsuitable accommodation were linked to deterioration in mental and long-term physical health, as well as increased safeguarding risks. 

Participants highlighted that poor conditions in asylum accommodation, such as overcrowding, unsuitable food and unmet care needs, have lasting effects on health. Relocation out of borough often disrupts access to healthcare, education, social networks and VCS support, increasing isolation and undermining continuity of care. Many felt unprepared for the move-on process and struggled to navigate housing, healthcare, benefits and employment systems, contributing to increased risk of homelessness and worsening health.

VCS organisations were identified as the most trusted and effective source of support, providing multilingual practical assistance and community connection. Volunteering was described as providing purpose that supports mental wellbeing, particularly during the asylum period when paid employment is not allowed. However, heavy reliance on an underresourced VCS, combined with gaps in statutory provision and limited communication between services, leaves many without support at critical points. Participants emphasised that secure accommodation is the foundation for health, wellbeing and integration.