london churches refugee fund

LONDON CHURCHES REFUGEE FUND

activating the generosity and hospitality of churches, community groups, other organisations and individuals
raising funds
supporting initiatives that directly respond to the needs of refused asylum seekers, such as night shelters, accommodation schemes, food distribution, refugee and asylum projects
raising awareness of the situation among churches and the general public
lobbying for change as part of this overall awareness-raising strategy
encouraging responses to inaccurate media stereotypes

Why is the fund needed?

There are up to half a million asylum seekers in this country whose applications to remain have been refused
While a few are returned by our government, most are unable to return home
Many live in fear of being forcibly detained and deported
Many have fled torture but have not been believed by the authorities
Many have sold everything in order to escape
Most are depressed; they have escaped trauma only to experience rejection here
They are not entitled to work, or to benefits, housing, health care or legal representation
Families are living in stressful conditions with friends or on the streets
Many children arrive unaccompanied and risk deportation at eighteen
Many have been badly served by lawyers and translators
They are often forced into illegal exploitative labour, including prostitution

"The majority rely on the help provided by voluntary organisations, refugee groups, friends and family to survive." (Amnesty)

London Churches Refugee Fund

Mr D Bond

Treasurer

144 Ladywell Road

London SE13 7HU

Follow London Churches Refugee Fund on Twitter @LCR_Fund