Home Office urged to be transparent about deaths of asylum seekers in its care

Human rights and refugee campaigners are urging the UK Home Office to publish quarterly data on asylum seeker deaths in its care, similar to reporting practices of other government departments. Currently, this data is only accessible through Freedom of Information requests, which are not always fulfilled. Data obtained through FoI requests shows 51 people died in Home Office-provided asylum accommodation in 2024, a significant increase from 4 deaths in 2019. The Home Office initially underreported deaths in 2024, later issuing an apology. A proposed amendment to the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Act 2025 to mandate publication failed, and an appeal to the Information Commissioner’s Office was unsuccessful. The Home Office argues transparency could endanger vulnerable individuals and staff due to potential harassment and violence. Asylum Matters is coordinating a campaign advocating for transparency regarding these deaths.

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