A joint statement about the presence of asylum seekers in Worcester has today been issued by the leaders of the four political groups represented on Worcester City Council.
Councillors Mel Allcott (Liberal Democrat), Marjory Bisset (Green), Lynn Denham (Labour) and Chris Mitchell (Conservative) said:
"People seeking asylum in the UK are often fleeing war, violence or persecution in their own countries, and have faced long and arduous journeys to arrive here.
"These are people desperately seeking a place of security and somewhere they can call home and – if they meet the criteria for remaining in the UK – we know we can rely on the people of Worcester to give them a warm and friendly welcome.
"That is why Worcester City Council is working with the West Midlands Strategic Migration Partnership to ensure that the city plays its part in accommodating asylum seekers.
"Accommodation for asylum seekers is organised by Serco, working on behalf of the Home Office, with places for up to 66 people expected to be provide in the city over the next 12 months. The City Council will play an advisory and supporting role, offering guidance on the best areas of the city for asylum seekers to be placed in."
