Cardiff Council leader, Cllr Huw Thomas, has refuted claims that immigrants are promptly securing council housing upon arrival in the city. Speaking at the city council’s policy review and performance scrutiny committee, Cllr Thomas addressed the growing misinformation surrounding Cardiff’s housing crisis. A recent report presented at the committee highlighted a surge in demand for temporary and emergency housing and services, particularly following a situation in late 2023 where 497 asylum seekers needed to vacate their accommodations after receiving positive asylum claim decisions.
Clarifying the process, Cllr Thomas explained that asylum seekers who receive a positive decision to stay in the UK cease to receive asylum support. He emphasised that there are no instances of asylum seekers immediately accessing council housing upon their approval to remain in the country. Addressing concerns about the spread of misinformation, Cllr Thomas mentioned the significant investment made in the Grangetown Gasworks site for supported and temporary accommodation, primarily for local families in Cardiff.
Responding to allegations that the Gasworks site was being misrepresented as a refugee camp by certain groups, Cllr Thomas highlighted the site’s development providing 155 temporary homes for Cardiff families. He stressed the importance of dispelling misinformation and ensuring the public is well-informed about the housing support provided. The council leader’s statements were made in response to a query from committee member Cllr Garry Hunt, who sought clarity on the council’s communication regarding refugee support.
In conclusion, Cllr Thomas reiterated the council’s commitment to tackling misinformation and enhancing communication efforts around housing support for refugees. The ongoing efforts aim to clarify misconceptions and uphold the legal responsibilities related to housing asylum seekers.