Why language service providers are the key to refugee and asylum support

In the year ending September 2024, 52,739 people were granted refugee protection in the UK. Of these people, 47,605 (90%) were granted refugee status[1]. This gives them protection against the conflict, violence, or persecution they have fled in their home country, and allows them to legally live and work in the UK. But this is only the beginning of their journey into settling in this country as they navigate the challenges of finding work, suitable housing, and access to benefits, education and healthcare.

Unfortunately, refugees who have come to the UK to escape atrocities and war in their home country often face isolation because of language and cultural barriers. Many report feeling alone and unable to communicate their everyday needs when they arrive in a completely foreign culture where they don’t speak or understand the native language. This problem gets compounded when met with the sheer amount of information that needs to be understood, and paperwork that needs to be filled out before they can start rebuilding their lives. Left unsupported, these language and cultural barriers lead to a wider social impact. They are left feeling isolated, anti-social, vulnerable to mental health difficulties, and reluctant to seek help.

Time and time again, refugees coming to the UK with skills and experience are unable to use them effectively because of these communication barriers. That’s why language and culture play a vital role in the successful integration of individuals. But the good news is that we as language service providers can help in many ways, such as:

Interpreting important information during legal, medical, educational and social appointments – giving individuals the opportunity to ask questions and better understand the system and their rights.

Translating information and advice into their native languages, as well as more practical elements such as forms and paperwork – to ensure the information is properly given and received both ways, and to avoid further hurdles and frustration later down the line.

Giving language and cultural training to enable people to better integrate into and understand the target culture and acquire the language skills needed to live and work there successfully.

We all want people fleeing persecution to be able to get their new lives in a new culture off to the best start possible. As language service providers, it’s our duty to help with the basics. If you’re able to, why not reach out to your local refugee/asylum seeker organisation to find out how they could use your support?

[1]
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-september-2024/how-many-people-are-granted-asylum-in-the-uk#:~:text=In%20the%20year%20ending%20September,applicants%20and%2012%2C363%20were%20dependants

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