General Principles

Working with asylum seekers and refugees is not necessarily as difficult as you might think.  Anyone can offer a welcoming smile!  However, as with working alongside any vulnerable group of people, it is important to be thoughtful about how to get involved.  In particular, we recommend that you:

Never give legal advice to help with someone’s asylum claim, unless you are qualified to do so.

Be sensitive when asking asylum seekers or refugees personal questions, as many will have faced traumatic situations in their past that they will not feel comfortable sharing. Until you know someone well, avoid asking why they have come here.  Also remember that people may have lost family members in horrific circumstances.

Be careful about getting into counselling situations that you can’t handle.  Remember that it takes specialist training to counsel someone who has been traumatised.

Seek expert advice as often as you can by getting in touch with organisations such as the Refugee Council and Refugee Action.

Be confidential. Talking about an asylum seeker’s personal history or situation could have an adverse affect on their asylum claim.  

Look after yourself and make sure you are well supported.

Remember that giving is not a one way transaction.  Many asylum seekers and refugees will be delighted to offer you hospitality and friendship.

Got some tips to share or a question to ask? Become a member of the ECSR discussion boards here.