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There is widespread public support for a change in the law to allow asylum seekers to work and support themselves while their application is being considered, according to an exclusive poll commissioned by Community Care, writes Janet Snell.

Seventy eight per cent of those questioned agreed that those seeking refuge in this country should be allowed to get a job, especially in areas where there are skill shortages.

The survey of more than 1,000 people was carried out as part of the Right to Refuge campaign, which aims to challenge prejudice. Many asylum seekers want to work but are forbidden from doing so. Meanwhile, increasing numbers are also being refused benefits.

Community Care editor Polly Neate said the results were encouraging: "Employment not only promotes integration but also gives people a chance to make a contribution to society. We urge the government to listen and take notice of these results."

Sandy Buchan, chief executive of Refugee Action, added: "The public are right. Let asylum seekers work. That way they can provide for themselves and contribute to the communities in which they live….Many are qualified professionals yet they are banned from working.”

More than two thirds of those taking part in the survey described themselves as tolerant towards asylum seekers and refugees, although that tolerance was not always reflected in their other responses.

Eighty two per cent said they felt that the UK should be "tougher" on those seeking asylum in this country, while 52 per cent disagreed with the statement "asylum seekers enhance the UK's multicultural society".

However, responses varied depending on where people lived. Londoners tended to be more tolerant, with 61 per cent agreeing that society was enhanced by asylum seekers compared with just 29 per cent of respondents in the East Midlands.

Meanwhile 62 per cent of those in Scotland said they would be happy for asylum seekers to be housed on their street, while only 29 per cent of people in the south west said they would.

Respondents were almost equally divided over whether asylum seekers should have the same rights as local people to services such as housing or a GP.

And, while 48 per cent supported an end to the detention of asylum seekers under 18 who had committed no crime, 43 per cent were against any such move.