Funding to prevent asylum seekers being destitute on the streets has been called for this winter.

Charities are calling for a change in how people are supported, in a new report.

It calls for measures to counter act UK Government policy that leaves people given ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ status leaving them unable to access most benefits or housing support.

The charities including Homeless Network Scotland said it amounts to ‘destitution by design’.

Instead, they want a response that joins up temporary accommodation with personal and emotional support, legal casework and general advice and advocacy.

Maggie Brünjes, Chief Executive of Homeless Network Scotland, says: “Fair Way Scotland counteracts UK policy that leaves people with no support who are seeking sanctuary in Scotland. “This is destitution by design, affecting people who continue to make their case to stay here because it is better than the alternative.

“It means a safe place to stay with one-to-one support and legal advice so that people are not living in fear and destitution. It means a safe gateway to a settled destination until that destination is settled, whether this is Scotland or another place.

“A strategic funding partnership is now needed to bring about this step-change in how Scotland ends destitution and protects people’s human rights – a partnership of charitable foundations, businesses and donors – and the public sector in Scotland too. Working together, we can end destitution in Scotland.”

More than 30 charities and leading academics, working with the Scottish Government and local councils have produced the report.

It is hoped a response similar to the covid pandemic can be agreed and put in place

Brünjes added: “When the Scottish Government and local councils in Scotland had the opportunity to provide services and accommodation for everyone during the pandemic using public health legislation, they all took it.

“We applaud that life-saving intervention and recognise that individuals and organisations want to help find a fair way forward.

“To start with, securing backing from charitable foundations is key. We want to invite a strategic funding and learning partnership to test this approach in Scotland and how it might be replicated in other cities or countries.”

Campaigners said the need for action was urgent with people facing life on the streets in cities like Glasgow now.

Sabir Zazai, Chief Executive of the Scottish Refugee Council, said: “It needs a swift investment from charity funders because we cannot wait too long for this to be implemented.

“We need action and investment in Fair Way Scotland, which can demonstrate a different, better and credible approach.

“Work still needs to happen including resourcing. In this really critical time Scotland needs to maintain its long-standing legacy of reaching out to people seeking protection.”