Generous readers have donated more than £750,000 to the Guardian and Observer charity appeal in aid of UK refugees and asylum seekers less than two weeks since it launched.
The 2023 appeal is supporting three charities – Refugee Councils of Britain, Refugees at Home and Naccom – that provide frontline help to homeless and destitute refugees and asylum seekers, and campaign for a more humane asylum system.
Nearly 6,500 readers have so far given to the appeal, many of whom have emailed via the online donation page to say why they gave. One wrote: “I want people fleeing desperate conditions to feel safe and welcomed. Also to show our government that they do not speak for me in their appalling attitude to refugees and asylum seekers.”
Another reader wrote: “I grew up in a family with experience of a refugee mother and so understand from a personal perspective what that means. My heart goes out to those many refugees who are vilified in the public perception when I know how much they/we have contributed and have to offer our society.”
Another wrote: “Because behind all the hideous rhetoric, we are still a caring country, we welcome refugees, and it’s simply the right thing to do.”
The charities give shelter, food and advice to thousands of refugees with leave to remain caught up in a winter homelessness crisis after being forced to leave Home Office-funded hotels at short notice. They also provide longer-term support to help refugees recover their health and wellbeing, develop skills and rebuild their lives.
Introducing the appeal, Katharine Viner, the Guardian’s editor-in-chief, said: “More than ever, our 2023 appeal seeks to highlight the values of kindness, respect, tolerance and compassion, all of which underpin the missions of our partner charities, alongside their commitment to social justice and human rights.”
Carly Whyborn, executive director of Refugees at Home, said: “£750,000 is a phenomenal achievement. We are in awe of the generosity of Guardian and Observer readers. Their support to us and to our partner charities working with refugees and asylum seekers shines so brightly in today’s political landscape, and sends a message of strength and compassion to people seeking sanctuary here in the UK.”
Bridget Young, director of Naccom, said: “It’s heartwarming and motivating to see such incredible generosity. The appeal funds will help to strengthen Naccom and our members’ work supporting refugees and people seeking sanctuary from destitution.”
