News
14th May 2025 | statement
Our response to “restoring control over the immigration system” white paper and speech
At the Welsh Refugee Council, we hear the stories every day — of people who fled war and persecution, seeking safety and a chance to rebuild. They are not strangers. They are our neighbours, colleagues, and members of our communities. We understand that many in the UK are concerned about immigration — those concerns are …
13th May 2025 | statement
Building compassionate support for sanctuary seekers in Wales
For Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re looking at the power of community and building human connections for people experiencing the asylum system. By Nabil Moghal The Heart of Help report, commissioned by Platfform and conducted by the Welsh Refugee Council, offers a compelling roadmap to transform how support services in Wales engage with sanctuary seekers. …
24th April 2025 | statement
5 ways to show up and stand up for Refugee Week 2025
Mark your diaries: Refugee Week 2025 is just around the corner! Celebrating the contributions, resilience, and creativity of refugees is an important part of our work every day of the year, and we’re especially pleased to join in this GLOBAL festival from 16 to 22 June 2025. This year’s theme of Community as a Superpower …
10th April 2025 | statement
Another battle for survival
We are extremely proud to launch our research into the housing experiences of Ukrainians in Wales. Over the past year, we spoke with more than 200 Ukrainians, as well as experts and local authorities. Our goal was to understand the housing challenges Ukrainians have faced since arriving in Wales after the full-scale Russian invasion. You …
24th March 2025 | statement
Exploring employability with Lidl
At our employability event earlier this month, we experienced the power of collaboration in creating meaningful employment opportunities for refugees. A key highlight for us was the spotlight employer presentation by Michael Tallis, Regional Recruitment Manager for Lidl. Michael provided valuable insights into Lidl’s job opportunities and recruitment process, while also emphasising the brand-new partnership …
26th February 2025 | statement
The shared history of Ukraine and Wales
Monday 24 February saw the passing of a solemn day for Ukrainians around the world. The day marked the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion. The massive escalation in the war – now in its 11th year – shocked the world. In continuing solidarity with Ukrainians, the people of Wales continue a long connection with …
19th February 2025 | statement
Be the voice of change: join our community programme
We believe in the power of lived experience to shape policy; improve communities; and create real, lasting change. That’s why we’re calling for passionate sanctuary seekers and refugees across Wales to join us and become Community Changemakers! As a Changemaker, you’ll work alongside decision-makers, educate your community about housing rights, and help shape the future …
14th February 2025 | statement
Threads of belonging: weaving stories of migration
On a chilly Friday morning in Wales, west Carmarthen to be precise, we hosted our first heritage workshop of the new year to understand how migration has influenced the Welsh culture we know and love. With representatives from a range of countries that could have resembled a UN summit — Wales, Iran, Kurdistan, Nigeria, England, …
12th February 2025 | statement
Statement: Jane Hutt MS on the Nation of Sanctuary commitment
Yesterday, the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s unwavering commitment to Wales as a Nation of Sanctuary. The Welsh Refugee Council fully supports this vision and welcomes the continued leadership Wales has shown in creating a society where those seeking sanctuary can rebuild their lives in safety and dignity. …
11th February 2025 | statement
We can build a Nation of Sanctuary
Thirty-five years ago, the world watched as history unfolded. People everywhere stopped what they were doing to witness Nelson Mandela walk free from prison—a moment that symbolised hope, change, and the fight for justice. Mandela wasn’t just a leader; he was a beacon of resilience and fairness, showing us what’s possible when we stand up …