Cheshire East Council home page

Asylum seekers, refugees and migrants

For information regarding the Ukrainian Crisis, see our Support for Ukrainian Crisis page and associated media release.

We are working with our local partners to support individuals and families that could resettle in Cheshire East under one of the UK Government’s programmes.

Warrington, Cheshire West, Chester and Cheshire East have worked together to consider how best to welcome Syrian families and unaccompanied children. Whilst each local authority is working on its programme independently, we are all sharing our learning to ensure that the correct support is given for those people looking to resettle within one of the local authority areas.

Asylum seeker dispersal programme

This programme is for those who arrive in the UK where their status is to be determined following the submission of an application for asylum. The Home Office have a contract with a service delivery partner to accommodate and support asylum seekers.

In the North West the delivery partner is Serco. Serco source and equip dispersal accommodation, including maintenance and payment of utility bills, and provide support to individuals to settle within the community whilst their application is assessed.

Unaccompanied children programme

All Councils have been asked to consider whether they are prepared to accept unaccompanied children on a voluntary dispersal basis by UK Government from Kent County Council.

More information about refugees and asylum seekers

Many of our residents and partners, including local faith communities and voluntary services, have been in touch with us to share their support for those seeking asylum and fleeing their home country.

There is a real spirit of partnership in wanting to offer our collective Boroughs support and we very much welcome the offers of assistance.

These pages are constantly being updated as we understand more about each programme. Please check back regularly for more updates.

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The Home Office and its contracted providers make these decisions. Local councils are consulted but do not control placements.

People are placed by the Home Office in hotels or houses (often referred to as Dispersed Accommodation, DA). It is the Home Office’s current intention to move away from use of hotels to housing people in DA.

  • An asylum seeker is someone awaiting a decision on their claim for protection.
  • A refugee has been granted protection status and has the right to remain in the UK.
    Once granted leave to remain, (refugees become the responsibility of) local authorities take on responsibilities such as housing in line with current policies, not the Home Office.

Numbers fluctuate.

The council works closely with NHS and education providers to plan support. Any additional pressures are monitored and raised with central government where necessary.

  • Asylum accommodation is provided by the Home Office and is separate from local housing stock.
  • Refugees with status may apply for housing like any other resident, assessed under existing council policies.
  • Asylum seekers receive basic subsistence support from the Home Office.
  • Refugees may access mainstream benefits and services. The council provides safeguarding and statutory support where needed.

Yes. Most asylum seekers are fleeing conflict and persecution. Safeguarding and community safety are top priorities, and the council works closely with police and partners to monitor and respond to any concerns.

Yes, refugees with status have the right to work in the UK and will pay taxes and National Insurance like everyone else.

  • Through open communication with local groups
  • Myth-busting and factual information sharing
  • Swift responses to concerns raised by councillors and residents
  • Effective community partnership working

Flags will only be removed if there is a real and immediate safety concern. Attaching flags or decorations on street furniture such as lamp posts and guard rails can damage them and can affect safety because road users can’t see important signs.

  • We will remove any attachments where they obscure safety signs.
  • Where there is damage caused to public assets (e.g. painting or damage from the attachment) we will treat this as other forms of graffiti or damage and seek to recover the costs of any repairs that are necessary.

Many voluntary and faith groups welcome volunteers and donations. The council can signpost residents to these opportunities.

Key messages

  • The council is committed to supporting vulnerable people while maintaining community cohesion.
  • Decisions on asylum accommodation are made nationally, but the council plays a vital role in local support and safeguarding.
  • Open dialogue and accurate information are essential to counter misinformation and reduce tensions.

Page last reviewed: 29 April 2025