Community groups, churches, charities, food banks, trades unions and differing political parties came together last night to offer support to asylum seekers following the news of the planned arrival of up to 300 to be housed in Stradey Park Hotel.
Group spokesman, Steve Kelshaw, said:
“We all agree that this decision is wrong for the local community and for the asylum seekers themselves and we recognise the concerns many residents have about the Home Office proposal – but we should not be scapegoating vulnerable asylum seekers in the debate about the suitability of the accommodation.
We are asking the community to keep open minds and hearts and not to be drawn into the divisive language and politics that so often surrounds the debate on asylum seekers and refugees.
At the heart of this issue are vulnerable human beings often escaping the most appalling circumstances.
We are especially concerned about outside groups that often seek to exploit legitimate concerns of local people.
Llanelli has welcomed people from Syria, Afghanistan and Ukraine in recent years and we can be proud of the response of the community.
We are sure the local community will continue to show the kindness and compassion for which Llanelli and Wales is famous”.
Plans have now begun to look at how the groups and wider community can offer support to asylum seekers including English classes, voluntary work, sports activities, support from food banks and social opportunities.
The group is also planning to put together facts about asylum seekers and refugees to provide local people with more accurate information.
