Sefton Among Areas Considered for Private Landlord Scheme to House Asylum Seekers

Sefton Council has confirmed it is exploring options for accommodating asylum seekers as part of a wider government plan involving private landlords. Discussions are currently underway with the Home Office and companies such as Serco, which specialises in providing housing and support services for asylum seekers across the UK.

The growing need for appropriate accommodation follows a significant rise in asylum applications. In response, the Home Office is working with local authorities, including Sefton, to identify suitable housing solutions. One approach under consideration is partnering with private landlords to provide long-term, stable accommodation.

Private Landlord Incentives

Landlords participating in the scheme could benefit from a range of attractive incentives, including:

• Long-term leases with guaranteed rent payments.

• No void periods between tenancies.

• Full monthly rent paid on time.

• Repairs and maintenance handled by the contractor (excluding structural defects).

• Utilities and Council Tax paid by the contractor.

• Comprehensive property management, including monthly inspections and periodic safety checks.

These measures are designed to encourage more landlords to step forward and offer properties, ensuring a stable housing supply for those seeking asylum.

Sefton Council’s Position

While Sefton Council acknowledges the importance of supporting vulnerable asylum seekers, it has raised concerns about the potential impacts on local communities, tourism, and infrastructure.

The Council has already expressed opposition to certain sites, such as Pontins Holiday Park in Ainsdale, being used for asylum accommodation. Nonetheless, Sefton remains committed to working constructively with the Home Office to find balanced solutions that provide necessary support while protecting community interests.

Support Services for Asylum Seekers

In addition to accommodation, asylum seekers placed under the scheme would receive support services such as financial assistance, advice on accessing benefits, and help with integrating into the local community. The goal is to offer a stable and supportive environment while their asylum applications are processed.

Sefton Part of Wider Regional Plan

Sefton is one of several local authorities in the North West and Midlands regions being considered for the scheme. Other areas include Liverpool, Manchester, Wigan, Preston, and Wirral, among many others.

The full list of participating areas in the North West includes:

Allerdale, Barrow-in-Furness, Blackburn & Darwen, Blackpool, Bolton, Burnley, Bury, Carlisle, Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Chorley, Copeland, Eden (Penrith), Fylde, Halton, Hyndburn, Knowsley, Lancaster, Liverpool, Manchester, Oldham, Pendle, Preston, Ribble Valley, Rochdale, Rossendale, Salford, Sefton, South Lakeland, South Ribble, Stockport, St Helens, Tameside, Trafford, Warrington, West Lancashire, Wigan, Wirral, and Wyre.

In the Midlands, areas include Amber Valley, Ashfield, Bassetlaw, Birmingham, Blaby, and Bolsover.

Next Steps

Sefton Council is continuing discussions with stakeholders to carefully assess the implications and ensure any decisions made support both asylum seekers and the local community. A final decision is expected following detailed consultations and planning.