asked Her Majesty's Government:

What assistance is available for asylum applicants whose applications have failed. [HL947]

The International Organisation for Migration provides return and reintegration assistance under the voluntary-assisted returns and reintegration programme for failed asylum seekers making a voluntary return. The Immigration and Nationality Department makes available support and accommodation under Section 4 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 to failed asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute and for whom there is a temporary barrier to leaving the UK. Families who were in receipt of asylum support under Section 95 at the time appeal rights were exhausted normally continue to receive support, while they remain in the UK, until the youngest dependant reaches 18 years of age. Failed asylum seekers who have a need for care and attention due to age, illness or disability and not solely because of destitution may be eligible for support from the local authority under Section 21 of the National Assistance Act 1948.