Churches working directly with refugees
Taken from a recent article Jenny Herrera wrote for the Church Times: https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2026/19-june/comment/opinion/refugees-are-not-a-problem-to-solved
The government counts the numbers of UK refugee arrivals, but as the Church we are invited to journey with them.
Despite net migration falling significantly in recent years, public concern about immigration remains high, fuelled by ongoing political debate and media coverage of Channel crossings. This has contributed to heightened tensions around the issue, reflected in anti-immigration protests that took place in several major UK cities last weekend.
As a result, refugees and asylum seekers are seen as a problem to solve. In fact, they are human beings with stories, families and hopes for the future - and the Church is invited to be at the heart of this. Churches working directly with refugees see a very different long term reality of what it means to build a life in a new country. Many refugees have fled war, persecution or violence, endured dangerous journeys and arrived in the UK carrying deep trauma and uncertainty. Across the country, local churches are responding, unseen and unheard, enabling people to rebuild their lives and find a home where they can belong.
Against the backdrop of recent unrest in Belfast, churches have continued to serve - demonstrating the real impact of a present, active local church in our communities. That same commitment is evident in the way churches across the UK are welcoming refugees, enabling and supporting them to rebuild their lives.
For instance, an Iranian* refugee family arrived in the UK having experienced severe political tensions, security challenges, and sporadic violence in their home country. Without work, or an income, they desperately struggled to provide basic essentials for their five children - even to the extent where the eldest daughter went to college everyday in her father’s slippers in the wet British weather. But through the support of the local church, each child received a new pair of shoes. A small gift that restored a level of dignity, confidence and hope - demonstrating that they are seen, and cared for.
Another misconception we see in the headlines and the growing social media algorithms is that refugees come only to receive financial support, without wanting to contribute to society. When in reality, many are legally restricted from working while asylum claims are still in process. Surviving on just £9 a week, due to government policy, can make self-sufficiency impossible. Many desire to rebuild their lives, but are not always in the position to do so. Frequent moves between accommodation, language barriers and unfamiliarity with UK systems can cause a form of instability that leaves refugees isolated and disconnected.
Yet this is where the local Church can step in - as they did for Ali*, a Afghani refugee. He came to the UK after being injured during the conflict and was found sleeping in a tent. After receiving emergency accommodation, he was supported by a local church as he navigated the challenges of rebuilding his life and moving into permanent housing. As his immigration status was resolved and he gained the right to work, the stability and genuine friendship provided by the local church enabled him to pursue new opportunities - securing a translation job and two modelling contracts. Today, his life looks completely different. He volunteers his time at his local church supporting Arabic-speaking visitors, so that they too, can know a sense of community and belonging here in the UK. His story demonstrates how we, as the Church, are a critical part of a community helping refugees move from crisis and isolation to becoming active contributors.
“I was a stranger and you invited me in.”
As Christians, we must recognise that the safety and peace we enjoy in the UK are gifts from God, not earned rights. Throughout the Bible, God calls His people to welcome the stranger and care for the vulnerable. Refugees may look different in 2026 than they did in the words of the Bible thousands of years ago, but the call to respond is the same.
In doing so, we not only reflect Christ's love but also demonstrate to wider society that refugees are people to be supported and valued. Behind every headline are people made in the image of God, bringing gifts, resilience and experiences that can enrich our churches and communities. As a charity built on the experience of the Right Rev Dr John Sentamu, who is the Patron of Acts 435, and who arrived in the UK as a refugee from Uganda. He experienced firsthand the ability to build his life here, and feel supported by the local church, which led him to become the first black Archbishop of York. As the Church, the question is not whether we are called to welcome the stranger, but whether we are willing to answer that call.
Jenny Herrera is executive director of Acts 435 and has been involved in the charity since operations began in October 2009. She grew up in York, and is a chartered accountant by profession. She also runs the Good Business Charter, and is actively involved in her local church. You can support refugees and others in need across Britain through anonymous giving at Acts 435. You can partner with Acts 435 here: acts435.org.uk/partner
*Names and locations withheld to protect confidentiality