Stop Destitution

I recognise the dignity which is to be found in every human being.  In my previous employment when I was the National Secretary of Justice and Peace Scotland I did a lot of work with refugees and asylum seekers.  These people often get a bad press, but what I said to people who criticised them was 'how much money would make you leave your home with little prospect of return?'  People who claim asylum are generally in hopeless situations with few alternatives. 

I support the work of the Scottish Refugee Council who are pointing out that 1in 4 people seeking asylum in Scotland experience destitution.  This is unacceptable in modern Scotland.   I support the Scottish Refugee Council's campaign to assist asylum seekers by giving them:

• Proper support – this should continue until people are granted protection or can return home safely
• Right to work – for all asylum seekers who remain in the UK for more than six months, including those who have been refused.
• A better system – improve decision making on asylum claims and ensure the UK gives protection to all those who need it.

Please sign the petition in support of the Scottish Refugee Council's campaign to Stop Destitution

As many people prepare to celebrate Christmas over the next couple of weeks it is worth remembering that according to some accounts Jesus, Mary and Joseph were forced to leave their homeland and seek refuge in Egypt.