Asylum in Stoke: "A home not fit for humans."

Sep 16, 2014, 11:55 AM

(Broadcast on BBC Radio Stoke, September 2014)

Claims of "windowless bedrooms, infested with insects, and not fit for human beings".

BBC Radio Stoke has had exclusive access to a building in Shelton where asylum seekers are being housed.

The property had been closed for two years before it was opened earlier this month by G4S -- the private security firm which works for the Home Office.

Earlier this year a National Audit Investigation found that G4S struggled when taking over government contracts in the Midlands.

Our reporter EMMA THOMAS was invited into the building by asylum seekers who tell us -- even though they're fleeing persecution in their own countries -- they feel at risk here...

(The Home Office has said the UK has a proud history of granting asylum and they are looking into the accommodation issues raised.)