How RETAS Empowers Refugees to Rebuild Their Lives
This is another heart-warming story from one of our refugee clients. Alif had been re-united with his family (including his wife and baby) via the Government’s Family Reunion policy. However, the family's living conditions were far from ideal. They lived in a flat above a takeaway that was in a state of squalor. The property was extremely crowded, with only one bedroom, and it was infested with cockroaches. They had to sleep on a mattress on the floor, which was also infested with cockroaches.
Unfortunately, the family had lived in these appalling conditions for several years, causing them a great deal of distress. Their child's developed health problems and had many cockroach bites on his body. Despite reporting their concerns to the Council on numerous occasions, the family did not get any help until they reached out to RETAS for assistance.
Once aware of the family's plight, our advisor made it a priority to help the family find a suitable home. He wrote an urgent rehousing letter and lobbied the Council to provide the family with a property that was appropriate for their needs. Through persistent advocacy and emphasis on the unsanitary conditions in which they were living, the family was finally provided with alternative suitable housing.
Our advisor ensured that the family received all available help, including referrals for furniture and small grant applications. The family was immensely grateful and finally felt settled in their new home. The assistance continued with the creation of a CV and help with applying for jobs. This resulted in the family securing employment and expressing their newfound happiness and contentment.
In conclusion, the obstacles faced by the family were numerous and their story serves as a testament to the power of empathy and compassion. By taking small steps to help those in need, we can make a significant impact on their lives. At RETAS we aspire to be an example of an organization that provides essential assistance to refugees and asylum seekers, helping them overcome obstacles to achieve a better life.
Alif (To respect our client’s privacy Alif is a pseudonym)
