A toolkit to challenge harmful myths and share the truth about refugees and people seeking asylum.
Myth 1: “The UK is being invaded.”
Fact: People seeking asylum make up a small fraction of UK immigration.
In 2023, they accounted for just 7% of all people migrating to the UK. Language like “invasion” fuels fear and hostility toward vulnerable people seeking safety.
Source: UK Home Office Immigration Statistics 2023
Myth 2: “Asylum seekers and refugees are illegal.”
Fact: Seeking asylum is a legal human right.
Under the 1951 Refugee Convention, anyone has the right to apply for asylum in a country that has signed the agreement—including the UK. There is no such thing as an “illegal asylum seeker.”
Source: UNHCR – Asylum in the UK
Myth 3: “They should stay in the first safe country they reach.”
Fact: Most refugees do just that—over 70% stay in neighbouring countries.
The UK receives a small proportion of the world’s refugees. Those who come here often have family ties, speak the language, or have a historical connection to the UK.
Source: UNHCR Global Trends 2023
Myth 4: “They all want to come to the UK.”
Fact: The UK hosts only around 1% of the world’s refugees.
In Europe, the UK ranks 17th per capita for hosting refugees. Most displaced people are hosted by lower-income countries.
Source: Refugee Council – Key Facts
Myth 5: “They take over social housing.”
Fact: People seeking asylum are not entitled to social housing.
They are placed in basic Home Office accommodation, often in shared houses or hostels. Once granted refugee status, support ends and they must leave within 7 to 30 days, often with no savings or place to go—pushing many into homelessness.
Sources:
Myth 6: “They’re just here for benefits.”
Fact: People seeking asylum receive just £9.95 per day and are usually not allowed to work.
Most want to contribute—94% say they want to work. If allowed, the UK economy could gain an estimated £333 million per year.
Source: Refugee Action: Time to Lift the Ban
Myth 7: “They’re jumping the queue.”
Fact: There is no official “queue” for asylum.
There is no legal way to claim asylum in the UK from abroad. Many people are forced to make dangerous journeys because there are no safe or legal routes available.
Sources:
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