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<p>There have been two recent changes to the level of the cash allowances provided
to destitute asylum seekers to cover their essential living needs.</p><p>With effect
from 6 April, the allowance provided to asylum seekers without dependants was raised
to £36.95 per week (from £36.62).</p><p>Since 10 August a standard payment of £36.95
per week has been provided for each person in a family group (the asylum seeker and
any dependants). This resulted in a reduction in the total allowance provided to asylum
seekers with children. The change was made because a review of the support system
showed that the allowances previously provided exceeded the amount necessary to cover
essential living needs.</p><p>There are no plans to reverse either of these changes.
The Government generally reviews the level of the allowances each year and plans to
do so again in 2016.</p>
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