WAST members respond to the government’s new asylum plans

In November, the government proposed radical changes to the UK’s asylum system. Changes we believe will have a significant, negative impact on our members.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve taken some time to reflect on those changes and speak to our members about the immediate effect on their lives. Here are some of their words:

“The government news has created fear and anxiety in women seeking safety. We are rebuilding our lives from the trauma we experienced, but now we are not sure what to expect in the coming days. As a person with lived experience and a refugee right now, I feel I am back to the first day I seeked asylum. Am I really free????”

“Our people are already down. How low do they want to see us? Is it kidney problems, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental illnesses, insomnia? The list is endless. We are there because of the daily stress of the uncertainty of our stay in this country by the home office. We are constantly suffering and struggling with stress, helplessness, anxiety, FEAR, trauma, depression, anger, suicidal thoughts, insomnia, rejection, hate and all the other factors affecting us, why kick us when already down? They must pause a bit.”

Many of the women in our network are especially worried about their children:

“The decision affects many women and families, and it’s very fearful now… I feel that the current approach may have significant negative consequences for those who are vulnerable.”

“Please take into cognizance the children of asylum seekers who have come to be protected.”

“My kids worry so much… They want to complete their studies, and have lots of friends here.”

“Syria is still not safe. Every day, people are kidnapped or killed there.”

Together with Refugees

WAST members have been writing messages to their local MPs to express these worries, thanks to cards designed by Together With Refugees. We’ve also joined forces with over 250 local community groups from across the UK to sign an open letter telling the Home Secretary that we reject her ‘ruthless new plans to erode refugee rights’.

If you share our concerns, you can write to your MP and ask them to choose compassion over cruelty. Together With Refugees have made this handy tool meaning it only takes a couple of minutes to do, but still makes a huge difference.

Hope in every window

As others seek to dehumanise refugees and asylum seekers, many of whom are seeking sanctuary in the UK after fleeing danger and persecution, we stand in solidarity with the women in our network and everyone affected by these proposed changes.

This festive season, we encourage everyone to think about the meaning of sanctuary and safety. If you’d like to put up a message of solidarity alongside your decorations this year, you can download and print a poster from Together With Refugees.

Donate today

You can also donate to help us keep providing support, guidance and community to our members at this difficult time. As a small, local charity we’re hugely grateful for every donation and your support has a direct impact on our members’ lives.