Moray Councillor thanks public for positive response to asylum seekers
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THE public and members of Moray's refugee resettlement team have been thanked by a local councillor for their support of asylum seekers.
Since the first arrival of the asylum seekers at the end of April, Moray Council's team have been working to provide assistance and support to the around 50 asylum seekers who will be staying at the Eight Acres Hotel in Elgin.
Although the Council do not have any direct decision-making responsibilities regarding the hotels, the refugee resettlement team has been closely collaborating with the agency Mears, which the Home Office has contracted.
The initial steps taken by the team have involved conducting health assessments and addressing the basic clothing needs of the asylum seekers. The team have also worked to connect the refugees with the community in Moray, helping them to meet with faith groups and have been providing volunteering opportunities. They also offer opportunities for learning English or improving existing language skills.
The pilot program for community engagement has also played a pivotal role in creating a supportive environment for the vulnerable group of young people, many of whom are in their early twenties and have come here alone.
Chair of Moray Council’s Housing and Community Safety Committee, Cllr Amber Dunbar said: "We have got a great team in place that are doing amazing work and it has been really positive to see the work that they are doing. I really can't thank the team enough.
"I am so grateful to the public for the positivity they have shown, they have been so welcoming.
"It is so important to remember that these are really vulnerable people who have been through a lot and I hope people will be welcoming towards them.
"Moray is an amazing place - it's great that we can provide this safe haven for them so that they can be rebuild their lives locally.
"I'm so grateful to the public for the positive response and it is great that the community are offering those opportunities to help them and I hope that can continue."
If asylum seekers receive a positive outcome, they are granted the same rights as any other refugee in the UK, allowing them to work and live in the country. During their time as asylum seekers, Moray Council remains committed to providing necessary support and addressing any identified needs, ensuring that they are well-prepared to rebuild their lives in the UK.
If anyone would like to help by donating clothing, Moray Council are accepting trainers, jeans, tops and jackets for young adult males aged between 18 and 25 years. All donations to be delivered to the Red Cross Shop on South Street, Elgin.
