Project in Wrexham helps integrate asylum seekers into the community
Posted on Tue 23 August 2011
Case Study: Welsh Refugee Council Awarded: £72,317
In January 2006, Mr X claimed asylum in the UK to escape political persecution in his home country. Mr X is a highly educated man who left behind a wife and 3 children. He was initially refused asylum in 2007 with no right to appeal. After suffering real hardship, Mr X gathered enough evidence to submit a new asylum claim and was granted Section 4 support by the Home Office, which meant he received accommodation and support by vouchers only. Eventually, in October 2009 the Home Office granted him Indefinite Leave to remain.
During Mr X’s time in the UK, he has made every effort to be involved in community activities, especially those at the Welsh Refugee Council Refugee Forum, an initiative funded by the Fair Share Trust that aims to integrate asylum seekers in the community of Wrexham.
Mr X is an original member of the Forum and committed to attending every monthly meeting, engaging and participating in discussions and debates. By meeting and talking to other members, the Refugee Forum enabled Mr X to become aware of local issues affecting asylum seekers and the refugee community in Wrexham. He was also introduced to other key workers in the community and upon receiving his Indefinite Leave status he applied for a position with a national organisation that works with refugees. Mr X now attends meetings on behalf of this organisation and uses his link with the Forum to communicate information and opportunities.
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