Rochdale in Greater Manchester is housing 734 asylum seekers, while Braintree in Essex supports just one, highlighting stark regional disparities in the UK's asylum system. The disparity arises because private companies house asylum seekers in cheaper, deprived areas, often under Labour authorities.
Rochdale, with a population of 220,000, is the 15th most deprived local authority in England, with average house prices at £188,000. Labour council leader Neil Emmott noted the town's historic welcome but stressed that central government support is lacking and services are overstretched.
In contrast, Braintree, population 150,000, has an average income 9% above the national average and low crime rates. The council supported one asylum seeker in the last quarter and has seven Syrian refugees. Independent councillor Jackie Pell said people would welcome refugees but need more support, as isolated villages offer little.
Green councillor James Abbott highlighted a lack of affordable housing, with average house prices at £325,000 and many new builds costing over £500,000. A Braintree council spokesperson said they are working with partners to support any refugees coming to the district.
Emmott called for resources from central London to enable deprived areas like Rochdale to accommodate refugees fairly, as wealthier areas avoid taking in asylum seekers due to lack of low-cost housing.
