Join us for our monthly meeting

The Story of Refugees, Monday 9 February, Holy Trinity, 2.15 for 2.30pm

How we treat refugees reflects who we are. At our best, we are welcoming to those facing difficult times. Yet too often people fleeing war, persecution or violence are treated with hostility, rather than compassion. We know that communities across the country go the extra mile to welcome refugees – opening their homes, volunteering, speaking up, donating. And, given the chance, refugees do so much to enrich our society as they build new lives. In February we will hear from two charities that are focused on the latter – Bath Welcomes Refugees and Together With Refugees. 

Bath Welcomes Refugees is a small charity whose mission is to facilitate the settlement and the path to independence of those who come to us seeking refuge. Together With Refugees is the largest pro-refugee coalition in British history, whose current campaign, Fair Begins Here, is calling for a new plan for refugees – one that is fair, kind and gets the system working again, for everyone.

Headlines and policies often focus on the negatives as well as division and fear. But another story also exists: one of compassion, fairness, community, hope, and the power of people coming together to make change. The talk will focus on the power of narrative, how the stories we tell shape our collective understanding, and how this connects to the migration and refugee system in the UK. The space will give the opportunity for us to ask our questions and share concerns.