Who are we?
As residents and friends of Hoylake, we want to show that everyone is welcome in our town – and hate is not. We share accurate information, host inclusive events, and support those fleeing danger. For more info, please see our Facebook group – Hoylake4All.
Who has been staying in the Hoylake Hotel?
Since February 2020, the Hotel has been home to refugees. For over a year, most were single men, but by the end of 2022 it mainly housed families who stay temporarily before moving on. Volunteers, neighbours, and local churches welcomed them, and they’ve become part of our community – children in local schools, adults volunteering in the community.
What has happened now?
In July 2025, Wirral Council announced that the Home Office plans to move the families out of the hotel and return to housing, mostly men.
What will happen to the families?
We don’t know yet. If they are rehomed in proper houses, that’s great. Hotels aren’t a healthy long-term home for families – cramped rooms mean there is no space for children to play and no privacy for parents. But if they’re moved to a hotel far away, it could mean losing friends, schools, and community ties they’ve built here.
Should we be worried about single men moving back in?
No. Single men lived in the hotel for over a year with no rise in crime or police call-outs. Those who met them found them polite, respectful, and kind.
But they are “undocumented”, isn’t this an issue?
When a refugee arrives on the UK all their biometrics are recorded, and they go through rigorous background checks that can take up to two years. All refugees in hotels are documented asylum seekers.
By contrast, a convicted British criminal could move to your street tomorrow and you’d never know.
Why are refugees living in hotels?
The Conservative government started using hotels for refugees – an expensive policy that sends billions in profits to private companies. That money could instead go to local councils to house people, helping both refugees and the local economy.
Are they refugees?
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) definition of “refugee” is someone who has fled their country to escape conflict, violence, or persecution and has sought safety in another country. As soon as they cross a border to escape, they become a refugee. “Refugee status” is given after the UK asylum process is completed with a positive decision.
Why call them ‘illegal immigrants’?
Currently, there is no legal way for a refugee to enter the UK, that’s why people have to risk their lives in lorries or small boats. However, as soon as they arrive, they claim asylum, and from that moment, they’re legal asylum seekers. Read More
Can we really afford for people to come to the UK?
The simple answer is, yes! Once their asylum claims are approved, people can work and support themselves, they can pay tax and use their skills and talents to benefit our society. They don’t have to be a cost to anyone– in fact, they can be a real asset to our society. Read More or investigate the source data
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