Asylum seekers live in divided opinions in Hull's Royal Hotel

In the UK, specifically in Hull, the Royal Hotel has been housing asylum seekers for the past five years. This situation has sparked significant division within the local community. Recently, incidents of violence have created a tense atmosphere. During the riots last summer, which resulted in damaged property, asylum seekers were left frightened and in hiding. Anei, a resident of the hotel, shared his experience, stating he felt terrorized and attacked. He now has the right to remain in the UK and expressed his desire to contribute to society through work. Others in the community, like Gaynor, have expressed mixed feelings about the situation, reflecting on the hotel’s previous status as a pleasing establishment and sympathizing with those seeking refuge. Yet, she also questions the fairness of their arrival in the UK compared to their journey from conflict zones. Danny Taylor, running a local organization that aids the homeless, noted the significant targeting of asylum seekers in negative discussions among locals, highlighting the need for compassion towards all vulnerable populations. The local government is aware of the challenges and aims to diminish reliance on hotel accommodations by reforming policies that would lead to more sustainable solutions for asylum seekers.