Asylum seekers come to our country seeking refuge from persecution, violence, and various forms of harm. Current laws, however, prohibit them from obtaining gainful employment. As a result, they must rely on limited government aid and the goodwill of strangers to survive, which often traps them in a cycle of dependency and poverty.

Allowing asylum seekers to work is not only a matter of human rights and dignity but is also beneficial to the economy. The Global Refugee Work Rights Report demonstrates that when asylum seekers are allowed to work, they can contribute to local economies, create their own jobs, and increase local employment rates. Furthermore, court hearings for asylum cost over 1000 pounds making it exponentially difficult to afford on the £49 a week budget provided by the government (which is supposed to cover food accomodation and hygiene for a week). Not only does allowing them to work give them a way to pay for the court fees it enriches our economy and infrastructure.

It's time we updated our laws to reflect the realities of the 21st century. We call upon our legislators to change the laws and grant work permits to asylum seekers. This will enable them to contribute to society, reducing their dependence on aid, and allowing them to live with dignity. Please support this petition to grant work permits to asylum seekers.