| answer text |
<p>Those granted refugee status have recourse to public funds and are able to apply
for Universal Credit as soon as they receive their grant of status. Individuals do
not need to have received their Biometric Residence Permit before making a claim to
Universal Credit. They will need to be able to verify their identity and their refugee
status for their claim to be processed. Although refugees normally rely on their Biometric
Residence Permit to verify their identity and their refugee status, other documents
can be accepted.</p><p> </p><p>DWP Staff are instructed to consider all available
evidence when assessing a benefit claim, including checking directly with the Home
Office to confirm immigration status where they are unsure. We are currently reviewing
the guidance for staff on acceptable evidence for refugees including alternative evidence
for those yet to receive a Biometric Residence Permit.</p><p> </p><p>We are also reviewing
our public guidance to make clear that those granted refugee status should make a
claim to Universal Credit as soon as they receive their grant of status if they require
financial support and should not wait until they receive their Biometric Residence
Permit. This reflects the advice refugees are given in Home Office communications
when they receive their grant of status.</p><p> </p>
|
|
