PAFRAS

On May 25th PAFRAS welcomed Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York, to its Drop-in. The Archbishop campaigns actively through the charity 'Still human, still here'. In discussion with the PAFRAS staff members he spoke of the ending of the enforced destitution of refused asylum seekers as one of his priorities.

Recently new Home Office rules have caused huge problems for asylum seekers as they try to present their evidence at appeal and this has also strained the resources of support agencies such as PAFRAS.

Asylum seekers now have to phone to make an appointment in order to submit their evidence in person in Liverpool. The telephone call itself is a deterrent for harassed and demoralized men and women. Moreover, the people thus being deterred are almost always destitute surviving on mere handouts from charities, friends and their communities in Leeds. They cannot afford the bus fare to Liverpool.

PAFRAS service users would greatly appreciate any cash donations to help pay these fares. Donations can be made through the web site - www.pafras.org.uk or in person at the drop in on Tuesday or Thursday mornings, 10 to 1pm at St Aidan's Church Hall, Elford Place, West LS8 5QD.

Thank you!