WORCESTER residents are being encouraged to explore the facts around people seeking asylum in the city before passing judgement, writes Erica Murphy-Hogg.
The topics are being debated across the nation, often with harmful rhetoric.
Division has grown as asylum seekers continue to be housed in British hotels, such as The Fownes in Worcester, despite present and previous Governments promising this was only a temporary measure.
Worcester City Council has published a new webpage dedicated to educating people about immigration.
It explains the differences between migrants, refugees and asylum seekers and answers many of the questions that people have surrounding this sensitive subject.
Visit: www.worcester.gov.uk to take a look.
Coun Jessie Jagger, leader of the council’s Liberal Democrats group, said: “Seeking asylum is sometimes misunderstood as being illegal. In fact, it is a lawful process.”
Coun Jabba Riaz, Labour deputy leader of the council, said: “We have a proud history of welcoming migrants to Worcester, who have played a key role in our economy and society for hundreds of years.”
And Coun Karen Lewing, co-Leader of the council’s Green group, said: “There are so many misconceptions about this subject.
“One of the common ones is that the City Council is responsible for providing housing to asylum seekers, including in local hotels. In fact, that is something the Home Office does.
“The new webpage at: worcester.gov.uk explains the roles and duties different organisations have.
“I hope the information on this webpage will help inspire more kindness towards everyone.”