On a chilly morning in the heart of London, a group of recently arrived refugees and well-established migrants gather in a community center. Their mission is to decide how to allocate £500,000 in funding to support individuals like themselves.
As part of the Borough of Sanctuary grants program, this initiative empowers migrants and refugees by building on the government’s commitment to devolution. Islington, recognized for its work with people seeking refuge and migrants, actively participates in the program.
The council recruited 18 individuals from countries including Afghanistan, Ukraine, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Iran, and Sri Lanka to determine how the funds should be distributed. The panellists, comprising a mix of genders, ages, and lengths of residency, bring their personal experiences navigating language barriers, new country complexities, and asylum processes to inform funding allocation.
Sayeed, an Afghan refugee and father of two, faced daily challenges upon arrival in the UK. He found himself seeking guidance on everyday tasks and struggling with the vastly different administrative systems compared to his home country.
The panellists received comprehensive training, covering grant processes, communication skills, unconscious bias, and application evaluations. They prioritized issues such as immigration advice, language support, access to healthcare and housing, and the integration of joyful activities and cultural events.
Yuuli, a Ukrainian refugee and mother of two, applied to become a panellist to share her experience and help others facing similar challenges. She emphasizes the importance of positive emotions and finding joy in one’s journey.
Islington Council aims not only to show openness towards refugees and migrants but also to empower them to actively shape their local community. Shelia Chapman, an Islington councillor, envisions raising awareness among council employees and residents about the borough’s sanctuary status.
The borough has welcomed numerous asylum seekers and has resettled individuals from Afghanistan and other countries. Islington recognizes that these individuals bring bravery, courage, and talent to the community.
For the panellists, participating in the program provides a sense of purpose and belonging. Yuuli and Sayeed have found camaraderie among the group, sharing experiences and forming a community.
Sayeed, who dreams of improving his English fluency, appreciates the opportunity to communicate with others, share his experiences, and learn from others. Unlike material rewards, being part of this panel holds significant meaning for him.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/18/its-helping-me-build-my-future-empowering-migrant-and-refugee-families-in-a-london-borough-of-sanctuary
