Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if she will review the effect of the non-provision of documentation, such as National Insurance numbers, on destitution among people who have been granted refugee status.

Asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute are supported by the Home Office. If they are granted refugee status this support ends 28 days later because they are now allowed to work and can apply for mainstream welfare benefits.

They are also provided with a Biometric Residence Permit and National Insurance Number to help them access these benefits. We are working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure that newly recognised refugees are able to swiftly access benefits and employment support services.