Articles - Miscellaneous

Destitution Among Asylum Seekers

Recently I was talking to a Moslem family of asylum seekers. The parents are both professionals and their three children are all doing well in local schools. The mother of the family indicated a tall young man who was sitting nearby withdrawn and downcast. He was a native of their country and had now become one of the growing number of destitute asylum seekers in Leeds. The mother explained that they had taken this young man in. It was obviously not easy having a deeply troubled young man living with them and sharing a bedroom with their son. They had the added burden of knowing that their action could jeopardize their own financial support from NASS. But as the mother explained 'I can only think what I would like someone to do if it was my son' To which her husband added gently 'You see we believe in God.'

During the second world war, refugees from occupied countries might be taken in for the duration of the war, by their fellow countrymen living in the unoccupied countries of the allies. I could only reflect on what sort of country we have become, that not only turns young adults who might speak little or no English, onto the streets, but also penalises their fellow countrymen for taking them in. I could only say 'I am sorry.'

I won't risk oversimplyfying a complex issue by going into the causes of destitution among asylum seekers but am more than happy to talk further with anyone who contacts me.

I would however like to give some of the ways we can help.

Short Stop, has been set up on the lines of Night Stop, for asylum seekers who are destitute because they are deemed not to have applied for asylum at the point of entry - forms for this are at the back of church. Contact Merlo Mitchell on 3805695

A less demanding way we can all contribute is by continuing to give food for the St George's collection. This is used for giving out food parcels for anyone who needs them, and is becoming an indispensable way of topping up, throughout the year, the Harvest Festival contributions. Our contributions so far are much appreciated by St George's. Tony Beswick, the Manager of the Crypt, says it would also be useful to have toiletries as well as food in our collections. He also points out there is an on going need for volunteers to sort out the food, clothing and the like that are given. Contact St George's on 2459061

Other areas where volunteers are needed for work overall with asylum seekers/refugees, are;
" On the Befriending scheme - Contact Ana Rodriguez LASSN tel 3805693 (Mon to Wed).
" Teaching English at Home - contact Gerard Godon LASSN tel 3805692
" Evening meals and a range of activities contact Merlo Michell LASSN tel 3805690

" Also the Brudenell Centre, Park Lane College require volunteers to support adult refugees learning to read and write English-classes held every afternoon 1-2pm .
Telephone Heather Campbell (ESOL) tutor on 2162294 or 2162290

Jill Vogler

© St Edmund's Church, Roundhay - Charity Number 1131904