The facts about asylum seekers and refugees
Over the last few years refugees and people seeking asylum have been in the media spotlight. Much has been said and written and much of this information has been laced with rumour, myths and untruths.
Our myths and truths page aims to set the record straight and highlight the positive contributions these newcomers can make to our economy and way of life in Salford.
Salford welcomes people from other countries
Salford has a proud reputation for welcoming people from other countries in need of help, with the customary northern qualities of friendliness and hospitality.
The city council, in partnership with the health service, police, businesses and other agencies recognises the need to do more to celebrate our cultural diversity. These organisations are committed to supporting both established and new communities.
With its thriving dockland industries, immigrants from across the world have made an important contribution to our great city and its history. Salford would not be the city it is today without this rich mix of backgrounds and cultures.
As new industries continue to develop, requiring new skills, today's newcomers can make a major contribution to our economy and we hope you can give them a warm welcome.
What is the difference between someone seeking asylum and a refugee?
An asylum seeker is:
A person who is waiting for an application for refugee status to be assessed by the government; The UK has signed the 1951 Convention on Refugees, which means that by law, anyone has the right to apply for asylum in the UK and remain until a final decision on their asylum application has been made.
A refugee is:
A person who was an asylum seeker and has achieved refugee status.
To be granted the refugee status, a person has to:
- Prove they have a well grounded fear of persecution
- That this persecution is for reasons of race, religion nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion;
- Be outside the country they belong to or normally reside in
- Prove they are unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail themselves of protection of that country
- Prove that they are unable or unwilling to return home through fear of persecution.
Once an asylum seeker has achieved refugee status he or she has full rights and can make a positive contribution to the community.
Why are asylum seekers in Salford?
Before the year 2000, asylum seekers arriving in Britain were housed mainly in London and the southeast. In 2000 the government changed its policy and dispersed asylum seekers throughout the country, on a no choice basis. Councils could choose not to participate in this government scheme, but could not prevent asylum seekers arriving in their areas. Salford City Council, along with other Greater Manchester councils, decided to participate in the scheme, to allow them to have some influence on the dispersal process.
This page was last updated on 3 October 2009
