Refugee sleeping at Piccadilly Station trekked through mountains and camped in Calais to get here
25.06.2023 - 16:35
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
For those fleeing war, escaping persecution or simply seeking a better life, Greater Manchester has long been a place of sanctuary for people all over the world. The latest census recently revealed that one in three residents living in Manchester were born outside the UK, with 94 languages spoken in the city.
It is no wonder, then, that so many refugees want to make Manchester their home. But there is also an economic reason why many find themselves here.
With cheaper accommodation available in the North of England compared to the capital and the wealthy counties that surround it, asylum seekers are often housed in the region – and, once here, many are drawn to its most vibrant city. Local leaders say they are proud to welcome asylum seekers and refugees to the city-region and they condemn the recent 'divisive' rhetoric over immigration.
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However, they have written to the government this week demanding urgent action to alleviate the 'acute' pressures that local authorities are facing. It comes as hotels housing Afghan refugees are set to close later this year, sparking fears that those who are not housed in time will become homeless.
Around one in 20 homeless people in Greater Manchester have ended up in that stark situation after being forced to leave Home Office accommodation – more than anywhere else in the country, according to the letter signed by mayor Andy Burnham, his deputy Kate Green and all 10 council leaders. It comes as the cost of living crisis contributes to an increase in homelessness.
Migrants, asylum seekers and refugees have been all over the headlines as the government pledges to 'stop the boats' and pursues controversial