What support is the Welsh Government giving to Conwy County Borough Council to assist the authority in its response to the housing of asylum seekers at the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, Dolgarrog?
The provision of housing and support for asylum seekers while their asylum claim remains outstanding is the responsibility of the Home Office as part of their statutory duties under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. There is currently no funding available from the Home Office to support local authorities whilst asylum seekers are housed in hotels.
Accommodation providers and their sub-contractors are responsible for the services provided to asylum seekers whilst resident in hotels. The statement of requirements set out in their contract with the Home Office outlines the services and information that must be provided within seven calendar days of the asylum seeker’s arrival.
As asylum accommodation and support does not sit within the devolved powers of the Welsh Government, no funding has been provided to Conwy Council to date, nor has it been provided to other local authorities where asylum hotel accommodation is present.