Setting the table

It's been hard to focus on much beside the disturbing sequence of events in the USA that has gripped the media  and boggled our minds in recent days. Nevertheless here in West Wales we have been pursuing our own modest efforts to redress the balance of need by offering hospitality to some Syrian families within our small town. The process, described in an earlier blip, has been  long and complicated since we are in the vanguard of community sponsorship in the UK.  It has been incumbent upon us to raise our own funds, identify an available property, organise language teaching, find interpreters and ensure that watertight arrangements will be in place for the range of social, medical, financial  (and so on) needs that a refugee family may present. It's a huge responsibility and nothing can be left to chance.

Our group of around 15 local individuals came together nine months ago, more or less spontaneously, many having professional backgrounds (doctors, teachers, social workers) others with links to church and community groups, but all motivated by a wish to do something for people who have been uprooted due to circumstances beyond their control and left homeless and vulnerable in refugee camps.

Today we gathered at 9am to face three Home Office officials who, having scrutinised the  resettlement plan we submitted,  travelled to meet us and review our proposals in detail.
 Photo shows last-minute exchanges as we arrange the seating before the visitors arrive.

We felt drained at the end of two hours plus but the outcome was very positive. Once we have been given the green light it could be only a matter of weeks before a family arrives. That's when the real work will begin.