Response to August migration figures from the government and Office of National Statistics

Responding to new figures on migration from the Home Office and Office of National Statistics, Christina Marriott, Executive Director of Strategy and Communications for British Red Cross, said:

“We’re deeply concerned that 175,457 men, women and children are stuck in the asylum backlog.

"Every day we see the toll this takes on their physical and mental health, as they wait for months or even years.

"They’re often unable to work, separated from their families and in unsuitable accommodation, while waiting for a decision on their claim.

“With numbers increasing, there’s no time to waste. Claims must be processed more efficiently to help people settle into communities, start work and get on with their lives.

“We’re also increasingly concerned about the number of asylum claims that have been withdrawn. This is the highest number of withdrawals seen since records began.

"The reasons for this are unclear, but the government needs to urgently review its efforts to reduce the backlog and publish data on why vulnerable people’s claims are being withdrawn.”

-Ends -

Background:

- The figures show withdrawals have increased by 308% since June 2022