American Asylum Seeker Receives Benefits While Living in Britain
Mr. Shoniregun, a recent asylum seeker in the UK, has faced significant challenges living in Britain after leaving a hostel. Initially, he received financial support, amounting to £400 a month, which he used for accommodation and living expenses.
Challenges of Returning to Asylum System
Shoniregun reports a broken system for returning failed asylum seekers. He expressed his hesitation to return to his native Grenada, stating, “I don’t really want to go back, but I’m put in a position where I don’t have another choice.” He indicated frustrations with the voluntary return process, saying it seemed ineffective.
Financial Support While Living in Britain
Throughout his time in the UK, Shoniregun received financial assistance from Islington Council and Saint Stephen’s in Canonbury. The funding included:
- £400.19 monthly for living expenses
- Assistance for accommodation
- Support for mobile service costs
Connection to the UK
Shoniregun has personal ties to Britain, having been born at Whittington Hospital in Islington. He believes this connection grants him the right to remain in the UK. He stated, “I chose the United Kingdom specifically because I was born in the United Kingdom.”
Initially, he felt confident about his asylum claim, believing his UK birth certificate would facilitate his entry. However, the complexities of the asylum system presented unexpected hurdles.
Application for British Citizenship
In addition to seeking asylum, Shoniregun has applied for a British passport. He expressed frustration with the waiting period, stating, “His Majesty’s Passport Office has not given me a proper answer.”
It is important to note that children born in Britain after 1983 only automatically acquire citizenship if at least one parent is a British citizen or holds settled status. Shoniregun’s birth in the UK did not secure citizenship due to his parents’ immigration status—his mother is Grenadian and his father is Nigerian.
As Shoniregun navigates the complexities of asylum and citizenship, his experiences highlight the challenges many asylum seekers face while living in Britain.
