LONDON, MARCH - JRS-UK has urged British citizens to take greater awareness of issues concerning asylum seekers and refugees in the UK.  Outlined in their new leaflet, 'Refused...and then what', the UK office offers ten points of action that can be taken to lessen the suffering of these vulnerable members of society.

Chief among these points is the call to "Voice your opinion against xenophobia and anti-immigration/refugee propaganda." and "Visit an asylum seeker in detention".  Personal testimonies from asylum seekers that highlight the realities of the asylum process in the UK are also included on the leaflet - "When I arrived in the Detention Centre I had to go through many heavy locked doors, like in a jail.  I felt there was not much difference between both.  I suddenly wondered if I came to England to seek asylum or to spend the rest of my life in jail".

The leaflet is very much in key with the work the UK office is doing and reflects the hands on approach they take.  On weekdays the office is a hub of activity, with the doors open to asylum seekers looking for assistance and advice.

To view 'Refused...and then what?' (pdf) click here.