The No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) Network is a national network safeguarding the welfare of destitute families, adults and care leavers who are unable to access benefits due to their immigration status. We support councils to prevent homelessness, alleviate child poverty, promote integration within local communities, and to operate cost-efficient services.
Since 2006, the NRPF Network has assisted councils to provide services that are consistent with the national standards that have been developed through sharing good practice across the sector. With a UK-wide membership of over 5500 people representing local government, the voluntary sector, central government, the police and the NHS, the Network is hosted by Islington Council, has three members of staff based in London and Greater Manchester and is led by a national Steering Group.
By providing accommodation and financial support to children and vulnerable adults who are prevented from accessing mainstream benefits due to their immigration status, councils play an essential role in preventing homelessness and reducing child poverty. However, this comes at a significant cost to local government, so it is essential for councils to understand their legal duties, provide services whilst making efficient use of scarce resources, and to work collaboratively to press for central government funding and policy change.