A migrant family has demanded to be moved from a £250,000 new-build home in Shropshire, claiming they fear for their safety and struggle with rural life. Muhammad Nadeem, 40, his wife Shamaila, and their four children were placed in a four-bedroom property in Stoke Heath about two weeks ago after staying in asylum hotel accommodation.
Confrontations and Security Concerns
The family alleges they no longer feel safe. Mr Nadeem said they were confronted by strangers within hours of arriving. Shamaila stated: "We are scared to stay in this house. We hate it here." Mr Nadeem claimed his wife and children were outside when three people approached them. "We quickly went inside and I locked the door," he said. Later that day, two more people came to the house, one wearing a mask, and filmed him after he answered the door. He alleged they shouted what sounded like abuse. The incidents were reported to Serco, the private contractor managing the accommodation. According to reports, round-the-clock security patrols have been introduced in the area.
Isolation and Financial Strain
Mr Nadeem, who moved from Pakistan two years ago on a work visa, worked as an Uber driver in Stockport. After his visa expired, the family claimed asylum and were moved to Stoke Heath. He criticised the isolated location, citing his health problems—diabetes and back pain—and lack of nearby services. The nearest supermarket requires a £20 return taxi journey, consuming much of the family's £295 weekly Home Office allowance for six people. "If my bread goes out of date, what do I do? Most of our money goes on taxis," he said. He also restricts his children from playing outside due to fear of abuse or threats. Police have provided personal attack alarms because of poor mobile phone reception.
Political and Community Reaction
The Stoke Heath development includes 21 homes expected to accommodate about 83 asylum seekers. Originally earmarked for social housing, the properties were acquired by Serco. Conservative MP Mark Pritchard criticised the lack of consultation, telling the Commons: "People are being kept in the dark. There has been secrecy—no consultation and no transparency." Immigration Minister Alex Norris agreed to meet with Pritchard. A Home Office spokesman said: "New houses should never house asylum seekers. Earlier this year, the Home Secretary introduced robust processes to ensure new-build sites like Stoke Heath can never be considered again." The Government has pledged to end the use of asylum hotels before the next general election by increasing dispersed accommodation and former military sites.
