Charities that advocated for the Home Office to soften its stance on immigration rules received more than £1 billion in taxpayer-funded contracts and grants, according to an investigation.
These organizations are facing criticism for utilizing public funds to promote an agenda perceived as anti-border control, particularly following Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's recent policy shift regarding indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
Research indicates that 38 charities involved in lobbying efforts and responding to government consultations collectively received approximately £1 billion in the last financial year. Mencap, a charity supporting individuals with learning disabilities, was a significant recipient, securing over £200 million in contracts and grants in 2024-25. The charity had previously advised Parliament to maintain the five-year ILR pathway for social care workers.
Barnardo's, a children's charity that received £192 million in the same period, informed peers that it does not endorse the concept of "earned settlement" as a determinant for children's long-term security in the UK. Praxis, a charity focused on migrants and refugees, received nearly £1 million and argued against the notion of earned settlement, suggesting that undocumented arrivals should face no penalties when applying for settlement.
Praxis, along with other charities, reportedly organized efforts to bring over 500 individuals to Parliament in March to lobby approximately 100 Members of Parliament against the proposed immigration measures.
Data from the Home Office's consultation analysis, published alongside Ms. Mahmood's announcement, revealed that 66% of the 560 responses from the "third sector" (charities) opposed penalties for illegal arrivals seeking to settle permanently in the UK.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the situation, stating, "It takes some brass neck to take millions from British taxpayers and then spend it campaigning against Britain controlling its borders." He added, "These charities seem to think the public purse is there to bankroll their political agenda, whatever the public wants."
John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, commented, "While charities have an important role to play in community services, Britons don't expect their taxes to be funding organisations who are pushing political agendas."
A government spokesperson asserted that charities are legally obligated to exist solely for their charitable purposes, and strict rules are in place to prevent taxpayer money from being used for lobbying or political activities when provided as grant funding.
In response, a Barnardo's spokesperson stated that a part of their mission involves advocating for the children they support, sharing insights based on evidence from their services. Jon Sparkes, chief executive at Mencap, highlighted that maintaining a route to settlement aids stability for both workers and employers, crucial for the continuity of care for people with learning disabilities amid workforce shortages.
Praxis was contacted for comment. The Home Secretary recently addressed concerns about "significant issues" with free movement, even as some argue that EU membership could alleviate immigration pressures.