Asylum seekers speak to BBC from house facing local opposition

Asylum seekers speak to BBC from house facing local opposition

The increase in the number of homes in multiple occupation (HMOs) in Wigan has led to some of these properties now housing asylum seekers, with the total rising from around 350 to over 900 presently. This shift has sparked concerns among locals about having individuals seeking asylum residing nearby. The BBC’s UK editor, Ed Thomas, had the opportunity to visit a neighborhood in Wigan and was granted access to a shared home where asylum seekers are living in rental accommodation.

During his visit, Thomas interacted with residents who expressed their worries about having asylum seekers as neighbors. The sentiments of the locals shed light on the challenges and apprehensions surrounding the influx of asylum seekers into their community. Away from Wigan, in Warrington, there have been ongoing weekly demonstrations outside an asylum hotel over the summer months, reflecting the wider tensions and protests surrounding asylum accommodation in various regions.

The spotlight on these issues in Wigan and Warrington emphasizes the complexities and controversies surrounding asylum accommodation in the UK. The increase in HMOs and the subsequent housing of asylum seekers have brought to the surface a mix of opinions and concerns within the local populations. As debates continue on the best approach to accommodating asylum seekers, it is clear that these issues resonate deeply within communities across the country. The ongoing discussions and protests serve as a reminder of the evolving dynamics and challenges faced by both asylum seekers and local residents in the UK

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