The National Audit Office reported that the increase in asylum decisions had placed greater pressure on local authorities to support refugees in finding accommodation, and increased the risk of homelessness and rough sleeping.35 We received written evidence from the London Councils, which told us that there were 311 refugees sleeping rough across London in January 2023, after leaving Home Office accommodation.36 The Local Government Association also reported significant rises in homelessness ...

The National Audit Office reported that the increase in asylum decisions had placed greater pressure on local authorities to support refugees in finding accommodation, and increased the risk of homelessness and rough sleeping.35 We received written evidence from the London Councils, which told us that there were 311 refugees sleeping rough across London in January 2023, after leaving Home Office accommodation.36 The Local Government Association also reported significant rises in homelessness for those leaving asylum accommodation.37 Furthermore, we received reports of councils facing significant cost burdens in relation to the interactions wi Type: conclusion | Number: 22 | Response status: accepted Government response: 4.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented 4.2 The Home Office will establish a working group with the Local Government Association and Local Authority Chief Executive regional leads to address issues raised at the nation