Opinion polls in the last General Election put immigration among the top hot issues of concern for the UK electorate.
While debates in the media have revealed a wide range of views both for and against immigration, they also highlighted misunderstandings, misinformation and mistrust.
Newspaper headlines using words like parasites, scroungers and illegals, together with stories blaming asylum seekers or refugees for terrorism, AIDS, increases in crime and other social problems, do little to increase peoples understanding of a subject which can often evoke an emotional response, especially in times of hardship.
These are some questions we can answer during our talks and events.
Q. What is the level of immigration in the UK and how does it compare with other countries?
Q. What is the difference between a refugee, an asylum seeker and an economic migrant?
Q. Why are immigrants detained and is it true that detention is indefinite?
Q. Are families detained?
Q. What is the process for gaining asylum in the UK and how long does it take?
Q. What assistance do failed asylum seekers receive?
Q. Is it true they are given priority for housing and do they take our jobs?
DDVG strives to fight myths perpetuated by the media and to raise awareness on these issues in public settings. We organise talks, produce information brochures and write articles in magazines and the press.
The existing feedback about our Awareness Raising Project shows that our talks and activities contribute to a more balanced view on asylum seekers and refugees as opposed to certain myths and misunderstandings about immigration. Talks are given by our members, who regularly visit detainees held at the Dover Immigration Removal Centre, as well as those supporting ex-detainees facing destitution throughout the UK.
We are always on the lookout for opportunities to raise awareness so if you would like us to organise an event or talk in your community or local group email us on info@ddvg.org.uk or call us on 01304 242755. Our services are free and we would love to hear your ideas about how we can promote our message.
