Asylum Seekers pg 14

Two Iranians requested that they be baptised (Christian baptism is not allowed in Iran). Despite language limitations, they were baptised on Easter Eve with the support of the Dean and Canon Kevin who managed to find booklets on Christian baptism in Farsi. They were delighted and continue to be part of the 9.30am congregation with others of their friends. This is only a small part of the growing network of organisations who are trying to help in this situation. An English group started at Greenwood URC at about the same time as ours; St Bartholomew’s RC Church also have a weekly group. In June classes started at the Noke itself, organised through a variety of agencies including Herts Welcomes refugees, STAR (St Albans for Refugees) and CAD (Community Action Dacorum) with the co-operation of the local Councils. This is important because the church groups only reach a small proportion of the residents of the Noke and most of them need help to learn English. We are all in contact and are co-operating to develop the provision which is needed. It is an ever-changing scene. If any other members of the Cathedral community would like to join our group of helpers, we would welcome three or four more members of the team, particularly some men. No specific qualifications are required, just a capacity to be friendly and patient and speak English slowly and clearly. Our English students are asylum seekers. They are waiting on Home Office decisions about whether they will be given the right to remain in the UK, on a variety of terms. It is an uncertain, stressful time for them. These decisions can take months, sometimes up to two years. During this time, they are housed in hotels. They are not allowed to work and have little to do, though many have skills and qualifications which are in short supply here. There are also refugees at the Noke. Refugees have permission to stay, can work, access Heath care and benefits. If they can be housed, often at short notice anywhere in England, they can start to re-build their lives.

Helen Bishop