Matt Neibler, Refugee Welcome Committee of Hammersmith and Fulham
Residents, charities, faith and business leaders joined Hammersmith & Fulham Council last week to celebrate the contributions made by people resettled from warzones and other crises as part of National Refugee Week.
Guests heard from refugees who had been forced to flee their homes and learned how they can help, before networking with other guests.
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“It was heartening and humbling to hear the stories from refugees who have made their home in Hammersmith & Fulham, and learn more about the fantastic contributions they have made to our community,” said Cllr Sue Fennimore, H&F Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion.
“They have helped make our borough a more vibrant, diverse and interesting place. Supporting refuges is the right thing to do, and it was great to hear that so many have gone on to run successful business and other organisations which make such a rich contribution to Hammersmith & Fulham.”
H&F Cllr Ali Hashem spoke about how the public can help, including landlords letting their properties through the Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme, mentors befriending families and individuals, volunteers helping with a range of tasks from paperwork to putting up a shelf, and making donations.
The event was organised by H&F Council, H&F Refugee Forum and the H&F Refugees Welcome Committee.
"We are delighted to join with Hammersmith & Fulham Council and the H&F Refugees Welcome Committee in this celebration of the contribution that refugees continue to make to British society,” said Phil Cooper, acting co-ordinator of H&F Refugee Forum.
“We are a diverse borough with a proud record of welcoming and helping people fleeing conflict and upheaval around the world and it is right that this should be recognised."
Mahdi Iranian restaurant and Shilpa Indian restaurant, both in King Street, Hammersmith, and Laveli Bakery in Askew Road, Shepherds Bush, provided food for guests.
The event was sponsored by the charity, the Al Muntada Trust, as well as post production company DDF Post.
