PCC’s from Durham, Northumbria, and Cleveland, alongside the North East Migration Partnership, have joined forces to counter misconceptions around migration, especially the economic and population impact.
The campaign also tackles claims that the UK takes a disproportionate number of asylum seekers. According to the Myth Busters’ figures, in 2021 the UK had 44,190 asylum applications, which is the 17th highest in Europe when calculated against the population.
At the end of 2024, the UK had 448,000 refugees, making up 0.7% of the population. Specifically in the North East, at the end of December 2024, there were less than 7,600 asylum seekers, making up less than 0.3% of the regional population.
The campaign also states: “The UK’s asylum system often forces people into poverty. People waiting for their asylum claim to be decided are commonly not allowed to work. They are given just £49.18 a week to pay for essentials.”
The campaign breaks down the differences between asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants as follows:
Asylum seeker: Someone who is fleeing persecution in their home country. They’ve arrived in another country, made themselves known to the authorities and are using their legal right to apply for asylum. Everyone has the legal right to seek asylum.
Asylum seekers must give evidence of a “well-founded fear of being prosecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.”
Refugee: Someone who has been forced to flee their home due to war, violence, or persecution. People granted refugee status can access benefits, as well as live and work in the UK.
Many are granted five years leave to remain, with the option to apply for further leave to remain afterwards. Refugees often cannot vote, work in certain roles, or apply for a UK passport unless they apply for British Citizen, which is subject to specific requirements.
Migrant: Someone who has left their home and moved either within their own country or internationally, either temporarily or permanently. This can be for a range of reasons, including family or work. There is no legal definition of a migrant so this term can be used to describe different groups, including refugees or asylum seekers.
