13/08/2026
We were delighted to have Lesley from SWVG as guest speaker at our meeting last Monday. We learnt a great deal about the difficulties those seeking asylum face.
Danny Chambers MP came to see the Wi******er hub in session today with his Executive Assistant Hayley. He chatted with guests and volunteers, while the highlight of the meeting was a deep discussion with five guests about their journey to seek asylum and their frustrations concerning not being able to work, the length of time it is taking to receive a final decision, having to travel to Liverpool to submit fresh evidence and the new 30 month refugee status (with all its knock on problems) and the impending proposal of having to pay back asylum support when they are not even allowed to work.
We also discussed hate crime and the increasingly divisive public debate around asylum, including the way people seeking sanctuary can be caught up in political debate.
However, they all without exception love Wi******er, have experienced no hostility and love Wednesday mornings at the hub, the football and other activities. St Peter's and SWVG have given them a huge welcome.
Finally, Annabel spoke eloquently of her approach to teaching English and the honour and privilege it is to teach our guests.
