MORE asylum seekers received support in Northumberland while their claim was processed than last year, as the number of people waiting for an asylum decision hits its highest ever level.

While awaiting a decision asylum seekers are unable to work, but can be entitled to financial assistance and accommodation through 'Section 95' support.

Claimants may be eligible for Section 98 – which is given to those who appear destitute and are waiting to see if they are eligible for Section 95 – or Section 4, for after a claim is rejected.

Home Office figures shows 325 people claimed asylum assistance in Northumberland as of December – up from 298 a year before.

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Of these people, 310 were receiving Section 95 support.

The Refugee Council charity called the backlog "alarming", adding people fleeing persecution are being left "in limbo" while awaiting a decision.

"We need an asylum system that isn’t just about control, but is also about compassion and competence," its CEO, Enver Solomon, added.

The UK's backlog in asylum applications topped 160,900, up 60 per cent from 100,600 for the same period in 2021, and the highest figure since current records began in 2010.