Councils in London, including the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, have been providing asylum seekers with free or discounted access to leisure facilities, drawing public attention and political criticism amid ongoing debates on resource allocation. Richmond Council’s so-called "Richmond Card" scheme, available to asylum seekers referred to as "sanctuary seekers," offers free access to gym sessions, group exercise classes, and swimming lessons at five leisure centres across the borough. This contrasts sharply with charges levied on local working adults, who can be required to pay up to £52.50 monthly for similar access.

According to Richmond Council, the fairer access initiatives aim not only to include low-income residents, carers, and pensioners but also to facilitate the integration of sanctuary seekers into the community by providing supportive environments through a range of services. Those eligible for the free concession Richmond Card under the scheme include individuals in emergency accommodation or holding recognized Home Office documentation such as an Asylum Application Registration Card. Applications must be submitted via email, with applicants providing proof of eligibility and personal details. The scheme extends to several facilities including Pools on the Park, Teddington Pools and Fitness Centre, and others spread across the borough. The initiative forms part of Richmond’s broader Fairer Access Scheme, which also offers various discounts to residents on benefits such as Jobseeker's Allowance, Universal Credit, and Disability Allowance, granting significant concessions on pay-as-you-go sessions and junior activities.

Neighbouring Kingston Council similarly offers asylum seekers up to 50% discounts on sports activities through its "Active Kingston Card," usable at six local leisure centres. Labour-run Wandsworth Council also implements measures like 50% off e-bike rentals for asylum seekers, initiatives which have provoked political backlash. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticised these moves as a "slap in the face," arguing that such benefits are an affront to struggling families and indicative of misplaced priorities.

While the councils frame these schemes as essential to fostering inclusivity and supporting vulnerable individuals, such policies have been met with public scrutiny, especially given reports of misuse of taxpayer funds intended for essentials. For instance, there are allegations that over 6,000 asylum seekers have diverted state money meant for food and clothing towards gambling, fuelling wider debates over welfare provision and accountability.

Richmond Council emphasises that the Fairer Access Scheme, updated in January 2025, aims to ensure equitable pricing across its leisure services, removing barriers through discounted or free access while maintaining affordability for the broader community. This includes concessions on memberships, pay-as-you-go sessions, and eliminating joining fees. The council provides comprehensive guidance on proof of eligibility, requiring documentation such as housing benefit letters or asylum application confirmation to obtain these cards.

These initiatives reflect a broader challenge facing local authorities balancing integration support for asylum seekers with fairness perceived by existing residents. Critics question the appropriateness of free leisure access amid a cost-of-living crisis, while councils maintain the importance of inclusive services as part of community cohesion and wellbeing.

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Source: Noah Wire Services