Question to the Home Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking in response to the hunger strikes and other protests undertaken by some of the residents of asylum seeker accommodation at Napier Barracks in Folkestone; what steps they are taking (1) to investigate, and (2) to address, the cause of such protests; what education and leisure facilities they (a) have provided, and (b) intend to provide, for use by those residents; and what provision is in place for (i) mental health, (ii) pastoral, and (iii) spiritual, support.

The Government takes the wellbeing of asylum seekers extremely seriously. We provide asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute with safe, warm and secure accommodation, whilst their claims are being processed.

Since Napier Barracks opened for asylum accommodation, the Home Office has worked closely with Clearsprings and Migrant Help, providers of accommodation and advice services, and in partnership with local authorities, the police force and other partners to ensure that the site operates safely, securely, and in accordance with public health guidance. In addition to support provided on site, Home Office officials have held discussions with asylum seekers about their concerns and to provide further reassurance, including about their safety and wellbeing.

In response to the to the protests held at Napier, officials arranged a call with some of the residents to listen to their concerns. Reassurances were provided that moves out of the camp will shortly recommence, with vulnerability, time spent in the asylum process and overall length of stay in initial accommodation as a key considerations in this process. Weekly Home Office-led forums with residents will also be held going forward and surveys in relation to food and living standards at the site will be undertaken.

Asylum seekers’ basic needs are being met, including three meals per day provided by an on-site chef. In addition, Clearsprings Ready Homes offers those on-site wraparound services including a variety of sports, leisure and educational activities on site. These include English classes, televisions and Wi-fi, and a games room with equipment including pool tables, footballs, basketballs and board games. Mobile telephones are provided if asylum seekers do not have one to ensure that contact can be made.

All asylum seekers have access to a 24/7 AIRE (Advice, Issue Reporting and Eligibility) service provided for the Home Office by Migrant Help where they can raise any concerns regarding accommodation or support services, and they can get information about how to obtain further support including legal advice where appropriate.

At Napier Barracks the Home Office have worked closely with the Local Clinical Commissioning Group in Kent to ensure that arrangements are in place for asylum seekers to access health care as required. The operation of the sites takes cultural and religious needs into account. There are multi-faith rooms at both sites and catering will take account of dietary requirements in accordance with religious needs.