Press Statement November 30th 2021

Written By Rossana Leal

For Immediate Release

We are shocked and saddened by the news that our local RNLI were blocked from responding to an emergency call on 22nd September 2021. We don’t know the full details or who was responsible, and it would be inappropriate for us to comment on that.

What we can say is that we currently have over 400 local people signed up to our Project who are committed to ensuring that Hastings is a welcoming place to people seeking refuge. They stand in solidarity with people offering activities from informal English conversation to advocacy and standing up for refugee and migrant rights. We support many families and single people across Hastings, Rother and Wealden including families who have recently arrived from Afghanistan. This support is invaluable to those restarting their lives in the UK and the people of Hastings will continue to come together to show support and solidarity.

Whilst it is easy to focus on the vocal minority, we know that there are more people in Hastings who support all people seeking refuge, and the positive responses we have received today alone including messages of support and donations from people show this. It is those stories of humanity and solidarity which we should be highlighting.

You can show your support by joining us at our annual fundraising Christmas Fair at the Hastings Museum and Gallery on 4th December from 10am, and again on Saturday 11th December for our Rally for Refugees in Hastings, details of which can be found on our social media.

 

About The Refugee Buddy Project: The Refugee Buddy Project Hastings, Rother & Wealden started in 2017 with the aim of matching local volunteer buddies to newly arriving refugees in Hastings and St Leonards. In the 4 years since we have expanded to support all people seeking refuge across Hastings, Rother and Wealden through a combination of one-to-one peer support, buddying, activities and frontline support.

Registered Charity Number: 1191436.

For queries and clarifications please contact Alex Kempton, Operations and Campaigns Manager. alex@therefugeebuddyproject.org  07716669199

Website: www.therefugeebuddyproject.org

Facebook: /TheRefugeeBuddyProject

Twitter: @Hastings_Buddy

Instagram: @buddyproject_refugeeswelcome

 

Rossana Leal
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