Hero's thanks for local refugee worker
9th June 2008
Alan has secured a local Southampton volunteer a “Hero’s Thanks” in Parliament for her work with local refugees.
Christine Knight is a volunteer for the Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group (SWVG). She and the other volunteers from the group offer support to refugees and asylum seekers facing hardship.
Mrs Knight will be honoured along with other volunteers from across the UK at the 8th Heroes Tea Party taking place in the House of Commons Members Dining Room on the 24th June. There will be a presentation of a certificate by each MP to an older volunteer ‘Hero’ from his or her constituency.
Christine Knight has worked with SWVG since 2001. She devotes at least two days a week to SWVG as co-ordinator, finding visitors for asylum-seekers in need; dealing with emergencies, and helping with the ASSIST scheme which provides funds for the destitute.
Last year SWVG supported 76 refugees and asylum seekers from 23 countries including Zimbabwe, Iraq, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Afghanistan.
Christine would like to see more justice and compassion for asylum seekers. She says: “It is very uplifting to work with such courageous people. Even if we can’t solve their problems, we hope to make their lives a bit better by showing some humanity”.
Alan Whitehead MP said: “Britain, and Southampton in particular, have a long tradition of welcoming those fleeing persecution abroad. That tradition today lives on in the tireless work done by Christine and others like her across the country. The best way we can say thank you is by emulating the compassion she shows to those most in need.”
What do you think about this story? Email Alan
About Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group
- SWVG is a group of volunteers who befriend asylum seekers and refugees experiencing particular difficulties. The asylum seekers are referred by agencies such as Refugee Action, CLEAR, Southampton City College and Homeless Health.
- Since 2004 SWVG has operated the ASSIST scheme with the help of local churches, personal donations and grant-giving organisations, to provide temporary accommodation and subsistence for the most vulnerable. Last year, £90,000 was spent on basic needs such as food and shelter.
- SWVG also campaigns for a more just and humane asylum system, contributing to the national debate about immigration and asylum.
- SWVG’s patrons are the explorer, John Pilkington and the actress, Miriam Margolyes.
- Visit their website: http://www.swvg-refugees.org.uk/