What is the definition of an asylum seeker and a refugee?
Put in its simplest terms, a person is labelled an “asylum seeker” when they have lodged a claim with the Immigration & National Directorate at the Home Office and are waiting for a decision on that claim. Their claim is assessed on the basis of their credibility, the current political situation and human rights record of their country and if applicable, medical evidence of torture and abuse. Asylum seekers are not eligible for disability allowances. An asylum applicant is only granted “refugee” status if they meet the criteria laid down in the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees (in PDF format). They are then granted asylum and given a residence permit that allows them to live in the UK for 5 years. People with refugee status are entitled to disability benefits and to access social services in the same way as any other UK citizen. This can include help for people with physical, mental, health and learning disabilities and sensory impairments. Those who are not recognised as refugees under
