In a concerning move, the government is proposing to remove the requirement for licensing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) used as asylum accommodation. This has sparked outrage among organisations working tirelessly to support and protect asylum seekers, including Brighton & Hove Housing Coalition. David Thomas, Legal Officer of the coalition, condemns the proposed changes “The government is proposing to remove the requirement for licensing HMOs housing refugees. Through licensing, councils ensure that HMOs meet minimum standards for repair, room size and occupancy, sanitation and fire safety. Removing these safeguards is inhumane and a recipe for disaster. It must be opposed.” Let's delve deeper into the critical issues raised in a recent letter to the Secretaries of State and understand why urgent action is needed to protect the safety and well-being of asylum seekers.

Ensuring Minimum Standards

HMO licensing serves as a vital safeguard to ensure that properties meet minimum standards for repair, room size and occupancy, sanitation, and fire safety. It is through licensing that councils play a crucial role in maintaining these essential standards. However, if the proposed changes go ahead, these safeguards will be removed, leaving asylum seekers vulnerable to substandard living conditions.

Fire Safety Risks

One of the major concerns raised by housing organisations is the increased risk of fires in unlicensed HMOs. Overcrowding, sharing of facilities, and potential lax enforcement of safety standards create a dangerous cocktail that could have devastating consequences. The recent tragic fire in Tower Hamlets serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved. Not only would the property itself be at risk, but neighbouring homes would also face increased danger. This risk is further compounded by the alarming possibility of arson attacks, putting the lives of vulnerable individuals at even greater risk.

Impact on Health and Well-being

The removal of HMO licensing requirements also raises significant concerns about the health and well-being of people seeking sanctuary. Without these regulations, standards related to kitchen and bathroom facilities and room-sharing would no longer apply. This could result in conflicts between occupants, compromised safeguarding measures, and the confinement of individuals too cramped, windowless rooms resembling cells. Such conditions are not only dehumanising but can also have serious implications for the mental and physical health of asylum seekers.

Community Inclusivity and Housing Pressures

The proposed changes may also exacerbate existing challenges faced by communities and housing providers. Asylum accommodation may increasingly occupy buildings that previously did not meet HMO standards, thus potentially worsening local housing and homelessness pressures. Additionally, the concentration of overcrowded housing in neighbourhoods already burdened by hostel-type accommodations raises concerns about community inclusivity and the safety of asylum seekers.

Enforcement Challenges and Funding Reductions

The responsibility for managing asylum contracts would shift to the Home Office, reducing the direct involvement of local councils in redressing poor standards and safety issues. This change may lead to delayed or insufficient enforcement action compared to the current local HMO licensing arrangements. Furthermore, the removal of licensing fees from properties used for asylum accommodation would significantly reduce the funds available to local councils for enforcement work, further hindering their ability to ensure the safety and well-being of asylum seekers.

Call for Urgent Action

Brighton & Hove Housing Coalition, along with 140 other organisations, vehemently opposes the removal of HMO licensing requirements for asylum accommodation. These organisations urge the government to reconsider its decision and instead focus on resolving accommodation issues resulting from the backlog of asylum claims through alternative means. The safety, health, and well-being of asylum seekers should be treated as a priority, and maintaining HMO licensing is an essential step in ensuring safe, healthy, and secure housing for all individuals seeking sanctuary.

Conclusion

It is clear that the proposed removal of HMO licensing requirements for asylum accommodation is deeply troubling. Brighton & Hove Housing Coalition, alongside numerous organisations, urges the government to reconsider this decision. The safety, health, and well-being of asylum seekers should be prioritised, and HMO licensing plays a crucial role in achieving these objectives. It is vital that the government redoubles its efforts to ensure safe, healthy, and secure housing for all individuals seeking sanctuary. Let us stand together and oppose the removal of these essential safeguards, advocating for a compassionate and inclusive society that protects the rights and dignity of every individual.