Uncoordinated asylum seeker housing has created tensions

Participants were concerned that housing many asylum seekers in closely spaced hotels has created issues in the town centre. Participants reported that these asylum seekers congregate outside the hotels where they do not usually “cause trouble” but receive abuse from right-wing groups. It was also reported that there have been incidents where male asylum seekers have 'stalked' and 'harassed' local girls and women who are "not dressed the same” as women in their home countries. This has made local women feel unsafe. The police have spoken to the asylum seekers to help them understand the local culture and laws that it is unacceptable to "grab women". It was also reported that asylum seekers have congregated outside Swindon women’s centre and ‘prey’ on vulnerable women. Participants bemoaned the Home Office placing asylum seekers in Swindon without notifying local refugee organisations and Swindon Council's housing department in advance.