This is the National Asylum Seeker Support Service set up by Home Office
Support is provided largely in kind – tokens/ vouchers and may include accommodation.
Asylum Seekers requiring accommodation will be located in cluster areas – most outside of London & Kent, there is no choice over area in which accommodation will be offered
The asylum seeker may receive support from NASS whilst decision is being made or whilst an appeal is to be determined against a negative decision. The cost of accommodation funded by NASS
Unaccompanied children will be supported by LA Social Services Departments
NASS does not support pre April 2000 applicants
If asylum is granted NASS will provide full support for 14 days after grant – and help with the transition to benefit- once grace period ends all NASS support will cease ASD 35 termination letter
From 6th March 200 the Home Office announced an Interim Scheme. (Immigration & Asylum Act 1999)
In-Country asylum seekers are not be eligible for NASS support but will be supported by LAs under interim arrangements. SSDs of LAs will provide support
Pre – April 2000 applicants who are not entitled to HB / CTB may apply to LAs under Interim Scheme
Pre- April 2000 cases previously entitled to HB & CTB up to first negative decision
Loophole cases will no longer receive HB & CTB but may receive assistance under Interim Scheme
People who receive HB & CTB pre-April 2000 will continue to receive it