It is shocking to see reports of the terrible loss of yet more lives in the Channel this morning, including a four-year-old girl. This is another devastating human tragedy that could and should have been avoided.

You cannot legislate to say that some people deserve fewer human rights than others. We remain absolutely opposed to the #RwandaBill , and stand in solidarity and support with all those who have been left more fearful for the future this morning, having come here seeking safety.

Exciting news - we have a new website!

A one-stop shop for support, the latest news on what we've been up to, and information on the Sanctuary movement. Check it out here👇

wandsworthwelcomesrefugees.org

With thanks to PixelPurpose for all your help on this.

pixelpurpose.co.uk

The Prime Minister's speech this morning overlooked the glaring reality: the Rwanda plan will only compound the chaos within our asylum system, all at an exorbitant cost to taxpayers.

Our Ethiopian pro cyclist community member Trhas and Director Jo were interviewed by BBC London about her experiences in an asylum hotel, banned from work and surviving on £8.86 a week.

We crowdfunded for a bike, found her a great lawyer, and have helped her make friends. 🚴

Incredible story about Trhas, a pro cyclist from Ethiopia seeking asylum in the UK & living in a temporary accommodation. LOcal support charity West London Welcome crowdfunded £5k to get her the equipment she needed to start competing again Ford RideLondon bbc.co.uk/news/uk-englan…

'After I leave Zumba, I smile for the entire afternoon!' CARAS Community Member ❤️

Being able to feel free in your body, to move, stretch, express joy and seek physical health are all part of our sports offer.

GloriaZumbaZin (GZZ™ LTD) #HolisticWellbeing

Are you a local organisation keen to provide a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for refugees and asylum seekers in Wandsworth? If so, join us next Friday, 26th April, for a one-hour, online lunch and learn session, looking at the Sanctuary process 👇

eventbrite.co.uk/e/establishing…

✊ The Lords are still fighting back against the cruel Rwanda plan.

Despite what this Government says, this scheme isn't the 'will of the people'—it's a disgraceful assault on refugee rights and the rule of law.

We applaud those Parliamentarians who stand firm on these values.

If there ever was an example of the government failing to provide a safe route to get to the UK, it’s this. At Refugee Council 🧡 we work with children who were separated from their parents during Operation Pitting. 30+ months on, there is still no way for these families to reunite.

Immigration detention is unjust & inhumane. But there is an alternative.

Join TheDetentionForum on 16 May 7:30pm for a discussion about a vision of a society without the need for immigration detention - & how we can get there.

Register now👇
cityofsanctuary.org/events/practic…

Given the price of public transport, bikes are often the only way refugees and asylum seekers can get from A to B, be it for English lessons, healthcare, or to visit a foodbank. If you've got an old one going spare, please do get in touch! We'll service it and find it a new home.

Special episode of the podcast this week. I went to the House of Lords to an event organised by the team behind the brilliant film 'Io Capitano'. I then got to talk to the incredible Alf Dubs and talk about the Rwanda scheme, Gaza and more. Get it here: link.chtbl.com/PodSavetheUK

The Rwanda Plan Won't Stop Small Boat Crossings

Alf Dubs on the new Pod Save the UK. Listen now: go.crooked.com/PodSaveTheUK

#PodSaveTheUK Nish Kumar Coco Khan APPG on Refugees

🧵 Our new report, out today, lays bare the systemic failures in the 'move-on' process that refugees face when looking for housing after being granted asylum. The process is dysfunctional by design and discriminatory in delivery. /1

Eid al-fitr Mubarak! From our family to yours, we wish all those celebrating a joyful and peaceful day x

Our movement is growing! Thank YOU for standing up for refugee rights and safe routes. 🧡

Together we can create a difference - join us safepassage.org.uk/routes-to-safe…

#SafePassage #Thankful

I am aiming to start the photography for my Journeys project on immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers in earnest from May this year. The project will capture portraits and stories from those with lived experience and I may do a call for participants later in the year.

🌙 Our 2nd Youth Club #Iftar was a heart warming success! 🍽️ 4 young chefs led the kitchen, with the help of 2 dedicated volunteers. From spaghetti bolognaise to vegan options & Sudanese Ful, served with Afghan bread & salad, the atmosphere was filled with joy & unity.

#Ramadan

Local refugee charity Care4Calais SW London are running their annual fundraiser to buy Easter eggs for refugees living locally, and are appealing for donations.

To find out more and to donate, visit:
peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/ea…

#Tooting Wandsworth Welcomes Refugees Balham Newsie