New communities, asylum seekers and refugees

People from increasingly diverse communities are settling in the United Kingdom. They come from a variety of countries and for various reasons.

We are committed to making sure that all these communities are made to feel welcome in Southampton. For more information on our work in this area, please click on the links on the right hand side.

If you have any questions, or would like more information about anything to do with new communities, please contact us on 023 8083 3445 or e-mail communities.equalities@southampton.gov.uk.

What’s the difference between an asylum seeker and a refugee?

An asylum seeker is a person who has arrived in the country and has applied to the Home Office to stay here because they fear persecution in their country of origin. A refugee is someone whose asylum application has been accepted as genuine by the Home Office. For more information, download the pdf document which you can find on the right hand side.

Frequently asked questions on European accession state migration

National studies have shown that migrants coming to the UK bring significant advantages. For more information please see the frequently asked questions on European accession state migration.

Local government information unit: examples of good practice

There is a growing focus on migration to the UK and its impact on community cohesion. Southampton is seen as an example of a local authority taking a proactive approach to integrating new communities.