Cast Your Vote for Scottish Refugee Council This July and Help Those Seeking Asylum to Rebuild Their Lives

Scottish Refugee Council is an independent charity that provides support to those in need of refugee protection. The UK asylum system is incredibly tough and affects both individuals and families. For these people, it can be difficult settling into a new country and system, which is why Scottish Refugee Council is there to help support them in rebuilding their lives. The charity works with people who have left unbearable situations in countries all over the world, often where there is conflict or abuse of human rights. Scottish Refugee Council provide practical support and advice, as well as a listening ear for those who need it. They also speak out against an unfair and unjust asylum system and campaign for policy changes in order to help people rebuild their lives in a sustainable, meaningful way.

Scottish Refugee Council Support Services

The charity’s vision is where all people seeking refugee protection are welcomed in Scotland, and have their human rights and dignity respected. They work to ensure these people are protected and supported so that they can achieve their full potential. They do this through a number of different support services.

Families

The charity’s Family Keywork Service works to ensure that families entering the asylum process are supported and protected. They work with parents and children to support the whole family, providing information and advice on areas such as access to schools and nurseries and local community services. They also provide outreach activities, including family days out, which allow people to build social connections.

Helpline

Scottish Refugee Council also has a dedicated helpline to provide expert advice and information for those at all stages of the asylum process. It’s also accessible to professionals and support agencies who want to obtain information and advice.

Support for New Refugees

For those who have recently gained refugee status, the charity is there to provide support on all areas of starting their new life. This includes practical support for immediate issues such as housing and money, as well as help with education, health and learning English.

Dundee Resettlement Support

This service is available to those who have recently arrived in the Dundee area as a result of the government’s resettlement programmes. This involves one to one support including practical advice for people on finding their way around, planning their first few weeks in the area and helping with paperwork. Following this phase, the charity helps individuals and families to build plans that will allow them to fulfil long term ambitions. This service draws on experience from Syrian families who have settled in the area, allowing new families to benefit from their insight and experience.

Destitute Asylum Seeker Service

This service is available for people who are destitute and have exhausted all of their rights to appeal to any negative decisions towards their asylum claims. The charity not only helps individuals to understand their rights, but also to cope with such an incredibly difficult time. They provide support with making applications for emergency support and submitting fresh asylum applications, and can also make referrals to specialist support services when needed. This includes services for health and welfare, food banks and psychological support. The charity also provides social groups and activities to help people build new connections and to socialise.

Employment

Many refugees face a number of challenges when it comes to finding work. Scottish Refugee Council believes that everyone deserves the chance to work and earn a living, so they provide a number of training courses to help people overcome the challenges they can face. This includes providing an understanding of how the UK job market works, creating CVs, identifying skills that are transferable, and mock interviews.

Separated Children and Young People

This service works with children and young people who arrive in the UK separated from their families. Often these children have lived through horrific experiences and arrive into the country frightened and alone. The charity’s Lifeline Service provides friendly support from guardians to help children recover from traumatic experiences and adjust to their new circumstances. The service also offers volunteer befrienders to help young people get to know the community and to overcome the challenges of living in a new country, such as language and cultural barriers.

How You Can Help

Scottish Refugee Council supports thousands of people every single year, and with help from their supporters they can continue to make a difference to the lives of refugees. This July, they are taking part in our charity poll in a bid to win 20% of our profits. Cast your vote for them today and help the charity provide their vital services for refugees in Scotland. Thank you!

To find out more about Scottish Refugee Council, or to make a donation, you can visit their website.