March 26, 2010 @ 4:35 pm
Latest News
News
Thanks to Waitrose, Clifton
Thanks to the generosity of everyone who shopped at Waitrose in February, we have received £144 from their manager - we will put it to good use!
Protests at moves to Cardiff
At the beginning of 2010, we were very sorry to see 23 asylum seekers, including well-known Welcome Centre members, moved by UKBA to Cardiff. This was done at short notice without consultation, and was very disruptive for those who had to go. Many protestors, friends and well-wishers came to see them off, in thick snow in January. Following a lot of protest, including from local MPs, UKBA have undertaken not to move people again without more notice and consultation.
Good news! BRR members given refugee status
In 2010, 3 long-time members of the Centre have been given refugee status – after 5, 6 and 7 years wait respectively. This has led to much rejoicing. We wish the same relief to all our members, especially those who have been waiting for a decision many years.
Refugee and Migrant Support Hub UWE
5 members of the Welcome Centre, including a history graduate and a plant scientist, who are seeking sanctuary in UK or who have recently been granted refugee status, have been referred in the last two weeks to the Refugee and Migrant Support Hub at UWE http://info.uwe.ac.uk/news/UWENews/article.asp?item=1646 This project is set up to support refugee academics, and people who wish to study for higher education, or convert qualifications gained overseas for use in UK.
Cuts to community learning and ESOL classes
The Council are planning heavy cuts to community learning and ESOL classes, this will have a huge impact on our members and many more besides. There are lots of events planned to challenge these plans, including a demonstration on April 24th.
European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion
BRR has had a stall at the two excellently attended recent Bristol events, in the Council House and in the cathedral, to launch the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion.
City of Sanctuary
BRR is proud to support the steering group for the City of Sanctuary. It is hoped that Bristol will be proclaimed another UK City of Sanctuary later this year. http://www.cityofsanctuary.org/bristol
Requests
Gardening Clothes and Gloves, Welly boots. Mainly for men.
