campaigns > destitution > let them work

This month Refugee Action are teaming up with the Refugee Council and the TUC to ask MPs to sign an Early Day Motion, calling for asylum seekers who have been here for more than six months to be allowed to work.

Currently, asylum seekers are not allowed to work while they wait for a decision on their claim. This restriction also applies to people who are refused refugee status yet cannot return home, due to ongoing conflict and human rights abuses. This leads to many people from places like Zimbabwe and Darfur becoming destitute - forced to rely on charity handouts and open to exploitation.

Allowing people to work would mean that people who are here and cannot leave through no fault of their own, would be able to contribute to the economy, live in dignity and retain their skills. It would also allow them to live as equal members of communities.

Please help us to end destitution by sending our 'Let them work' e-card to your local MP and ask them to sign Early Day Motion 960.