Large Numbers Of Asylum Seekers in Derby Cry Out for Help: ‘We Are Going Through a Lot and Need Support
A charity in Derby is facing a huge increase in demand as more asylum seekers come to them for help. Derbyshire Refugee Solidarity (DRS) says they’ve registered 247 new people in the past 10 weeks, far more than usual. This has made it hard for their volunteers to keep up with the need for support.
During one recent session at St Anne’s Church Hall, the charity had its busiest day ever. Over 150 people arrived to get help, including learning English, fixing bikes, or picking up donated clothes and shoes. Many needed advice about their asylum applications or wanted to speak with lawyers. Volunteers worked hard, but the large number of people made it challenging to assist everyone.
Steve Cooke, the chairman of DRS, explained that many of the new arrivals have come from countries like Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, and Iran. “These people have been through a lot. Some have lost their families or seen terrible things. Before judging them, people need to understand their struggles,” he said.
The charity helps asylum seekers in many ways, such as teaching language classes, providing bicycles to save on travel costs, and running activities like sports, music, and art. They also help with things like setting up bank accounts and finding housing. However, the rising demand has stretched their resources.
Recent changes to government rules have added pressure. Asylum seekers granted permission to stay now have 56 days to find a job and new housing, compared to just 28 days before. This has caused more people to struggle with finding a place to live, and some end up homeless.
To deal with these challenges, a group of organizations in Derby has come together to form the New Arrivals Alliance. This partnership aims to provide better support for asylum seekers and refugees in the city. Richard Keene, the alliance manager, said, “We are working to make sure these people are welcomed and supported as they start a new life here.”
It’s disgusting that charities are putting so many emphasis on migrants and not our own people.They might want them there but the public don’t want it Especially when our people are neglected .They get a home in a building 3 meals a day food clothes bills all paid and £50 pocket money.They will dand more because its what they do.