The general expectation of the Government is that migrants coming into the UK should be able to maintain and accommodate themselves without recourse to public funds. This reflects the need to maintain the confidence of the public that immigration brings real benefits to our country, and that its finite resources are protected for those who have lawfully settled here on a permanent basis.
That said, I know that the Government is committed to protecting vulnerable people through the cost of living challenges we face, and has ensured support for those with NRPF where it has been appropriate to do so.
The £11.7 billion Energy Bills Support Scheme forms part of the £37 billion cost of living assistance package created to help families with rising global energy prices; those with NRPF are eligible for some support within this scheme. Further, families with NRPF are also able to access free school meals and free early years education for two-year-olds, subject to the relevant income thresholds. Those who have made the necessary national insurance contributions can also claim contributory benefits such as contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, statutory sick pay, and state pension.
It is also worth noting that migrants with permission under the Family or Private Life routes, or outside the rules on the basis of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, or the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) route can also apply for free to have their NRPF condition lifted by making a ‘change of conditions’ application. An individual can apply to have their NRPF condition lifted if they are destitute or at risk of imminent destitution, if there are reasons relating to the welfare of a relevant child, or where there are other exceptional financial circumstances.
I hope that this response has assured you that while those who come to the UK are expected to be able to support themselves, important safeguards are in place to help those who are truly vulnerable.