Facing Hallowe’en eviction from homes
CAMPAIGNERS supporting asylum seekers fighting eviction in Glasgow have warned that dozens could be left destitute within weeks.
The Evening Times understands eviction orders have been granted to Home Office contractor Serco to remove at least 45 individuals from their homes from the end of this month.
Throughout the summer Glasgow Sheriff Court granted hundreds of interim interdicts to delay the removal of vulnerable refugees from their homes across the city.
The outcome of a Court of Session appeal on the legality of Serco’s lock-change evictions is yet to be shared.
Now campaigners say they fear for the future of those who will be made destitute from October 31 onwards, when orders become active.
Serco, which handed over the contract for asylum seeker housing to Mears last month, remains responsible for many who they say have exhausted their appeals process to remain in the UK.
However charities have repeatedly stated that many of those at risk have active asylum claims, with Mears committing to not carrying out any of the contentious lock-change evictions currently being challenged.
Reports earlier this summer suggested that Serco has been monitoring asylum seekers, and successfully evicted two people from their homes in August.
When asked whether those who are set to be forced from their homes will be provided support by Serco, the contractor did not provide any examples of care available from them. Jenni Halliday, Serco’s operations director, said: “Our contract in Scotland with the Home Office ended a month ago which means that Serco no longer has responsibility for providing housing for asylum seekers in Glasgow.
“We are however still paying rent, entirely at our own cost, for a number of former asylum seekers and we are continuing to work, including through the courts, to return these properties to individual landlords.
“Other sources of support are available to any individuals considered to be destitute or to have an active asylum claim and this is a matter for the Home Office and local authority to determine in each individual case.”
The Home Office was approached for comment.