Refugees seeking asylum in South Wales should have access to decent, dignified and hygienic housing despite a decade of Tory austerity, according to UNISON.
Home Office plans to house more than 200 asylum seekers in a hotel in Llanelli have been condemned by the union which says better accommodation would be available were it not for UK Government slashing the budgets of local authorities.
UNISON understands a total of 207 asylum seekers are due to be housed in Stradey Park Hotel’s 77 rooms by July.
The union, which represents tens of thousands of local authority staff, has committed to working with Carmarthenshire Council to ensure all accommodation providers have the resources necessary to deliver safe, hygienic and dignified housing.
UNISON Cymru/Wales convenor Jan Tomlinson said: “Many refugees have suffered trauma and face difficulties such as emotional and mental health problems and have to endure discrimination and racism.
“UNISON condemns this treatment of people who are often fleeing countries torn apart by conflict and is committed to providing all support necessary to those in such a desperate situation.”
UNISON Cymru/Wales Black members self-organised group chair Kebba Manneh said: “UNISON fully supports refugees and people seeking asylum.
“As the biggest public service union in Wales, we will work with local authorities to ensure all shelters, hostels and council-accommodation providers in their area are adequately resourced to look after the welfare of residents.”
