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Our latest Insight Hub Bulletin highlights the growing pressures facing both migrant communities and the organisations supporting them. While the survey reveals rising levels of legal insecurity, housing instability and destitution, it also demonstrates the resilience of a sector that continues to step in where systems are failing.
Legal aid gaps are driving wider crises
One of the clearest messages from the findings is the impact of limited access to legal representation. 76 % of respondents identified lack of legal aid as a driver of destitution, while 71% reported that people often proceed through the asylum process without representation. Organisations described legal aid deserts in parts of the country and highlighted the knock-on effects on homelessness, safeguarding and wellbeing.
"There is zero immigration representation in Worcestershire."
Housing insecurity is affecting communities and services
Housing emerged as another major concern. 85% of respondents identified accommodation provision as a key source of pressure, while 95% reported increased homelessness as a wider impact of destitution. Several organisations raised concerns about accommodation models that are disconnected from local communities and can contribute to negative perceptions and community tensions.
"It creates a focus point for negative rhetoric, is not embedded into the community sustainably and gives echoes of ghettoisation."
The voluntary sector is filling the gaps
Throughout the survey, organisations described taking on increasing responsibilities as people struggle to access legal advice, housing and statutory support. 90% said the voluntary sector is absorbing the impact of rising destitution, while 77% reported taking on additional safeguarding responsibilities.
"The charity or volunteer people is becoming the lifeline for desperate situations of the clients."
The impact on people with lived experience
The findings also highlight growing pressure on staff and volunteers with lived experience of migration, with organisations reporting increased fear linked to hostility, burnout and the impact of ongoing conflicts affecting families and communities overseas.
A sector under pressure, but still responding
Taken together, the findings paint a picture of a sector acting as an essential safety net while operating under increasing strain. They reinforce the need for sustainable funding, improved legal aid provision, better housing solutions and greater recognition of the sector's role in supporting both migrant communities and wider social cohesion.
Read the full Bulletin 30 to explore the findings in more detail.
