Charities that advocated for softening stricter immigration rules and lobbied politicians have received over £1 billion in taxpayer-funded contracts and grants, according to a recent report. This development has drawn criticism, particularly following the Home Office's decision to modify rules regarding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Research indicates that 38 charities, which actively engaged with policymakers and responded to consultations on immigration, collectively received approximately £1 billion in the last financial year. The Home Office's own analysis of a consultation revealed that 66 percent of responses from the 'third sector' favored allowing undocumented immigrants to settle in the UK without penalty.
Mencap, a charity supporting individuals with learning disabilities, was a significant recipient, obtaining over £200 million in contracts and grants in 2024-25. The organization had previously advised lawmakers to maintain the existing five-year ILR pathway for social care workers.
Barnardo's, a children's charity that received £192 million in the same period, expressed to peers its opposition to the principles of 'earned settlement' as a criterion for children living in the UK.
Praxis, a migrant and refugee support charity, received nearly £1 million in contracts and grants in the year ending March 2025. The organization reportedly rejected the concept of earned settlement entirely and also offered guidance suggesting that undocumented arrivals should not face penalties when applying for settlement.
Praxis, along with other charities, organized efforts that brought over 500 individuals to Parliament to lobby approximately 100 Members of Parliament against the proposed immigration policies.
Critics have voiced concerns about public funds being used to support campaigns that run counter to the government's border control objectives. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stated, "It takes some brass neck to take millions from British taxpayers and then spend it campaigning against Britain controlling its borders." John O'Connell, chief executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, added that taxpayers do not expect their money to fund organizations pushing political agendas.
A government spokesperson affirmed that charities are legally restricted to furthering their charitable purposes and that strict rules prevent taxpayer money from being used for lobbying or political activities when provided as grant funding.
A spokesperson for Barnardo's defended their advocacy, stating that a part of their role involves speaking out on behalf of the children they serve, basing their input on evidence from their nationwide services. Jon Sparkes, chief executive at Mencap, highlighted that maintaining a route to settlement is crucial amid workforce shortages, offering stability for both workers and employers and ensuring continuity of care for individuals with learning disabilities.