Binta’s Story: The Complex Journey to Long-Term Housing

Binta’s determination and the right support helped her begin building a stable future. Taking steps toward stability, education, and the long-term housing she needs to live independently.

Written by: Saqib

Binta was granted asylum in 2025, following more than two decades of uncertainty while her asylum application was being assessed. Receiving refugee status marked a major turning point in Binta’s life. However, the transition to stable and independent living brought significant challenges.

Battle with homelessness

Over the years, Binta experienced repeated episodes of homelessness- most recently in May 2025, when she received an eviction notice from her asylum support accommodation after being granted refugee status. At that point, she had no income, no support network, and no access to private rental housing due to unaffordable rents and strict tenancy requirements. That’s when she turned to the Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC) for support.

RMC’s intervention was person-centred and holistic. Our advice team helped Binta take the first steps toward stability, supporting her to open a bank account, apply for Universal Credit, and access emergency food vouchers.

Reignited hope

Binta had long aspired to become a nurse, but the prolonged uncertainty of her immigration status had delayed that ambition. Once she was granted status, she expressed a clear desire to pursue education and contribute to society. RMC supported her to explore higher education, helping her book a registration appointment and guiding her through the process of applying to study nursing.

During this vulnerable period, RMC also advocated on her behalf to secure housing. She was placed in shared accommodation after a referral completed by RMC- a vital lifeline at a critical time. However, the environment was far from ideal. She shared the space with a family of five, making it difficult to store her medication or food, and she had little privacy. RMC advocated for her request for women-only accommodation, based on past experiences of abuse, but due to limited availability, this could not be met. While the placement had its challenges, it offered safety and a platform to move forward.

Ongoing support

Binta was advised by an RMC Housing Officer about her long-term housing options as a single woman. She now understands the limitations in accessing social housing, particularly for women with complex needs, but also has clarity on her next steps. Binta understands she can seek RMC’s support at any time for further housing advice and support.

With sustained guidance and advocacy, Binta is now working toward her next goal: finding meaningful employment and building a stable future.

What it all means

Binta’s experience reflects how essential RMC’s role is during key transition points for newly recognised refugees. While wider structural challenges in the housing system persist, the support of a trusted and responsive organisation like RMC can make the difference between prolonged hardship and the opportunity to rebuild.

Many women like Binta face long waits due to limited housing stock, but with the right support, they can begin to rebuild their lives, integrate, and contribute to society. Her story also demonstrates the urgent need for more affordable social housing.