In response to the article in the Times today Tim Finch, Director of Communications said:

“Changes in government regulations last year have removed access to secondary health care from failed asylum seekers, including families with children, and proposals are under consideration to remove access to primary care as well.

“As well as putting people’s health at risk, the new rules have increased confusion over who is entitled to what, and have meant that there have been instances where even people who are entitled to healthcare have been denied it.

“We recognise the great work done by health professionals across the UK in trying to ensure asylum seekers and refugees get the best possible treatment. However, people will be shocked that an international aid organisation such as Medecins du Monde has felt compelled to provide healthcare services in the capital city of the UK. Sadly, the Refugee Council is all too aware that under the current circumstances, there is a real need for such services.”

Ends

For further information, please contact Hannah Ward at hannah.ward@refugeecouncil.org.uk or 020 7346 1213/6702 .
For urgent or out of hours inquiries ring 0870 0555500 & ask for pager 865169.

Other information

Read the Refugee Council’s news coverage
Times: Medical charity offers aid to East End