CCL’s activities are mainly geared towards giving direct help to our guests, especially giving them a chance to practise their English and to make friends.
CCL also works with many of the local organisations who are helping asylum-seekers and refugees in different ways.
But we also recognise that their lives are affected by government policies on migration, and by the way local Councils, companies and voluntary organisations deal with them. So we feel our responsibilities go further than just our twice-weekly meetings.
Nationality and Borders Bill
Right now (early 2022) the most important issue is the Government’s proposed Nationality and Borders bill.
For a clear analysis of the Bill see, for example, Amnesty International’s critique.
Almost all organisations working with asylum-seekers and refugees are opposed to the changes. They have constructed an umbrella body called Together With Refugees, of which CCL is a member.
The coalition was founded by Asylum Matters, British Red Cross, Freedom from Torture, Rainbow Migration, Refugee Action, Refugee Council and Scottish Refugee Council.
We are calling for a kinder, fairer and more effective approach to supporting refugees in the UK
We have adopted as a symbol the orange heart representing compassion for people fleeing war and persecution. Inspired by the refugee nation flag, and the colours of a lifebelt, the heart symbolises hope and kindness. By recreating and sharing the heart on your social media channels you can show your support for refugees.
On Friday 22 October 2021, CCL joined with Asylum Matters, MAFWA Theatre and other groups outside Mill Hill Chapel to protest against the proposed Nationality and Borders Bill.
