Zainab, an asylum seeker, fled his home after the Iraq War and his mother’s death. His journey led him across Asia and Europe before he reached Calais, hoping to claim asylum in the UK. He was placed on a small boat to cross the English Channel, enduring freezing conditions and fear for his life.
Now, he lives at RAF Wethersfield, a former military base that houses over 500 asylum seekers. The Government opened this site in July 2023, despite initial promises to shut it down. Instead, plans are underway to expand its capacity to 800 due to rising asylum claims.
Many at the site share cramped living spaces, with some rooms now housing six people. Residents report outbreaks of scabies and tuberculosis, and a lack of proper medical care. Some say they have no access to medication, and the site has also been found to contain dangerous levels of legionella bacteria.
Doctors of the World, a health and human rights group, has recorded 283 cases of self-harm and suicide attempts at Wethersfield. The poor conditions, isolation, and lack of freedom have taken a toll on mental health.
Asylum seekers at Wethersfield receive just over £8 a week, far below the £49 weekly support given to others in different accommodations. With only £1.21 per day, many cannot afford transportation to the nearest town or access legal assistance for their asylum cases.
The site is run by Clearsprings, a private company awarded a £1bn contract by the Home Office to house asylum seekers. Clearsprings also manages other sites like Napier Barracks and RAF Scampton. The company’s owner, Graham King, has made millions from these contracts and recently appeared on The Sunday Times Rich List.
Between 2016 and 2023, 73 asylum seekers housed in Clearsprings-run facilities were among the 180 deaths reported in Home Office accommodations.
Human rights groups and charities like Doctors of the World and Care4Calais are urging the Government to close Wethersfield. They argue that the conditions are inhumane and harmful to those who have already endured extreme hardship.
A Home Office spokesperson stated that asylum seekers at the site have access to welfare officers, medical care, and mental health support. However, residents and advocates claim these services are inadequate.
The Government’s failure to close Wethersfield continues to spark criticism, with growing concerns that more asylum seekers will suffer under these conditions.
