Asylum seekers dispersed across Britain surge beyond 73,000 as Home Office releases swathes of new immigration data

TL;DR

Over 73,000 asylum seekers are now housed in "non-hotel accommodation" across Britain, a 3% increase in the year up to June 2026.
This dispersed accommodation houses 78% of all asylum seekers, while only 17% remain in hotels.
The government aims to end the use of hotels for asylum seekers by 2029.
Specific sites like Wethersfield and Crowborough Training Camp have faced significant local opposition, protests, and legal challenges.
Community members have expressed anger over lack of consultation, accusing the government of negatively impacting their towns and the country.
The total number of asylum claims has fallen by 21% compared to the previous year, though still remains above pre-2021 levels.
Over half of asylum seekers arrived through illegal entry routes, with small boats accounting for nearly 90% of these.
The Home Secretary highlights a reduction in the asylum backlog, fewer asylum seekers in hotels, and increased deportations and returns.

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