When a parent has no recourse to public funds (NRPF) and cannot access benefits or housing assistance, their local authority may have a duty to provide accommodation and financial support if their child is assessed by social care as being in need.
Social care support is not classed as a public fund for immigration purposes. This means it can be provided to families regardless of their immigration status, including where they have NRPF.
The pages in this section explain when accommodation and financial support may be provided to families with NRPF.
Social workers and other local authority officers in England who assess and support families with NRPF should refer to our detailed practice guidance on supporting children and families with NRPF.
Councils in Scotland can refer to COSLA's Migrants' Rights and Entitlements Guidance (Scotland).
Page updated: 03 July 2026
