The Home Office opened its first induction centre for asylum applicants last week in an attempt to reduce the number of asylum seekers being placed in bed and breakfast accommodation.
The induction centre, in Dover, will accommodate asylum seekers for between two and 10 days and provide them with health checks and screenings. The Home Office will jointly operate the centre with the voluntary sector, which aims to offer a more streamlined dispersal of asylum seekers.
Home Office minister Jeff Rooker said: "Induction centres will enable asylum seekers to have their immediate health needs attended to and ensure that they have an understanding of their rights - and their responsibilities - while they are awaiting a decision on their application."
Home secretary David Blunkett originally announced the new centres last autumn in an overhaul of the dispersal system (News, page 6, 1 November 2001).
- For further information on the new policy on asylum seekers view the Community Care archive at www.community-care.co.uk using the key word "vouchers".
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Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
Details of government consultations
25 July 2008
