Refuge, friendship, and a path forward - Urwa

I belong to a specific Muslim sect called Ahmadi Muslims. In Pakistan, we are considered non-Muslim by law and have faced challenges since childhood practicing our faith. After my father died from Covid in 2021, things worsened. My mother sent me to study in the UK in September 2023, and my sister joined in January 2024. By July, our home was attacked, I lost contact with my mother, and decided to claim asylum. I received refugee status in September 2024.

Arriving here, I felt alone and terrified. We claimed asylum together, but only my claim was granted. When the council suggested I move far from my sister, I felt I had no choice. On the day of my potential eviction, Laura from Hope into Action helped me secure a room at Travelodge Gatwick and later offered me a house.

Hope into Action supported me from day one. Laura helped me move my luggage, gave me a welcome card, brand new sheets and a plant as a gift. Then she helped me set my goals. I mentioned in pasing, that back home I cooked mainly with a pressure cooker and this was gifted to me at Christmas!

They provided practical support, like food vouchers, a chair and table for work, and a better Wi-Fi connection. They encouraged my fitness goals and helped me gain confidence at the gym. My sister can stay three nights a week, which has been a huge relief.

I was introduced to friends, local church members, and befrienders who helped me feel like I was a part of the community. On a number of occasions, I was dropped off at the mosque. It was amazing to see that I was respected for my own Muslim faith by a Christian charity.

I feel seen, heard, and supported. I now have hope for the future, excited to complete my apprenticeship, do public speaking for refugees, and travel to see my sister.  

I am grateful to Hope into Action and its supporters, they make refugees feel at home and help us build a better life.

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Urwa is a tenant of Hope into Action Mid Sussex, one of our franchise partners. 

Donate directly to HiA Mid Sussex here