206 per cent surge in refugee minors in Tameside in just a year

The latest available figures reveal a 206 per cent surge in the number of refugees, asylum seekers and immigration applicants under 18 residing in Tameside, within just a year.

According to information obtained through a Freedom of Information request submitted to Tameside Council, a total of 46 refugee minors were welcomed and supported within the council borough.

This number constitutes 30 percent of the overall refugee population in the area for the previous year.

There were 38 males and five females between the ages of 18 and 29, while 35 males and 12 females fell within the 30 to 49 age bracket.

Among individuals in the over-50s category, there were a total of 16 people, including 10 males and six females, during the financial year from 2022 to 2023.

In terms of financial aid allocated, Tameside Council received £1,482,685.95 to support the applicants, which was a substantial 92 percent increase from the previous year. 

This funding excludes the support designated for 'Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children.'

When the data was released, 226 immigration applicants, refugees and asylum seekers continued to reside within the borough, benefiting from ongoing support provided by TMBC.

In response to the Taliban reclaiming control of Afghanistan, the Government initiated two relocation schemes in 2021 and 2022 to assist Afghan citizens. 

These schemes had a particular focus on helping those who worked with the UK during the war in Afghanistan, and vulnerable groups – such as women, children and LGBTQ groups.

In May last year, the Home Office disclosed data on the whereabouts of Afghan refugees across the UK for the first time. According to this information, as of the end of March 2023, there were 38 Afghan refugees residing in Tameside.

Traditionally, the 28-day move-on period, a timeframe for asylum seekers to transition from asylum support and housing to independent accommodation, mainstream benefits, or employment, would commence upon receipt of the residence card. 

However, a recent government policy alteration has shifted this period to commence from the date of refugee status grant to an asylum seeker.