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<p>We review the level of financial support provided to asylum seekers who would otherwise
be destitute annually, using a methodology that has been in place since 2014 and which
the courts have agreed is rational and lawful. The methodology takes account of the
costs of food, clothes, toiletries and other items.</p><p> </p><p>The standard weekly
allowance has been raised to £39.60 from £37.75, an increase of around 5%, because
the methodology showed this is now the amount the average asylum seeker needs to meet
their essential living needs. This increase is considerably higher than current year
to year rise in general inflation, which was reported to be 0.8% in April.</p><p>
</p><p>This allowance is only one part of the package of support provided. We also
provide free accommodation, utilities are paid for, council tax is paid for, and there
is free access to the NHS and free education for their children.</p>
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