Glasgow Asylum Seekers’ Allowance Confirmed, Free Bus Request Denied

Asylum seekers in Glasgow get some money each week. The government provides a letter to the council, detailing how much money they receive. £4.96 is for travel, while £3.43 covers clothing and shoes.

The letter breaks down their total allowance: Food gets £34.86, and toiletries and laundry have £1.46. This info went to council leader Susan Aitken, who asked for free bus travel and work rights.

Last December, about 4,520 asylum seekers lived there. Aitken contacted the UK government before, fearing funding cuts for free buses. Now, Scotland will fund it by 2026.

Glasgow bus tickets cost £2 to £5.60. A council motion showed transport costs affect many, with 84% of asylum seekers unable to afford buses.

The UK government won’t fund free buses or work. They described the cost calculations for asylum seekers. Minister Angela Eagle said allowances are reviewed yearly, ensuring essential needs are met.

Standard weekly allowance went up to £49.18 for those in self-catered places. Those with provided meals get £8.86 per week, down from previous amounts. A new method tracks price changes better.

Here’s a breakdown of weekly payments: Food costs £34.86, toiletries and laundry cost £1.46, non-prescription medicine costs 47p, and they get £4.00 for communication.