A mum who is "living in fear every day" told how she's been given a warm welcome from Scousers.
Mariam came to the UK last year from West Africa and has since made an application for asylum. Following her application Mariam made contact with Liverpool based charity Asylum Link, who have been helping her while she waits on the Home Office decision on her claim.
Asylum Link provide opportunities for asylum seekers to spend their time constructively while waiting for decisions on their asylum applications.
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Mariam said she finds waiting for the Home Office decision on her asylum claim very hard. The 39-year-old told the ECHO: "You don't know what will happen each day. It’s scary.
"It's easier for children – they don't know the worry and get on with things. But myself I think about it each day, all the time.
"While here in the UK I’m not able to work, but I've started to do voluntary work in a charity shop and Asylum Link helped me find this placement. This is important to me because I hate to be alone and always like to be doing something, because I’m so active.
"Asylum Link is really good, they have been helping me to make sure I have enough food and clothing for myself and my children”.
Mariam spoke of the hospitality she has faced everywhere since arriving in Liverpool, with people being friendly and welcoming her, especially the staff and volunteers in Asylum link. Her children have made friends in school and one has many new friends playing football in a local park.
Asylum Link was formed in 2001 in the the disused priory building next to St Anne's Church in Overbury Street. The charity provides student placements, advocacy and immigration advice and support. Most of their services operate as drop in sessions from Monday – Friday, providing tea, coffee and a place to meet. The charity also provides clothing and food.
The Action Asylum Project is also based in the building, where they organise activities and volunteering events that bring local people and asylum seekers together.
Mariam said: "If my case is granted I would really love to do caring for people of any age. That's why I was so excited since working in the charity shop because you meet people who come into the shop and talk with them who explain things about their situation, also people in Asylum Link too.
"I want to work more with people to help as I have always liked to care for people. Also in my spare time I like to read poetry and novels. I do not write poetry, but like to read it”.
Mariam has enjoyed being part of the cycle club at Asylum link and said: "It was good as I was able to learn different routes around the city and how to go to certain places. Now I’m able to go on my own and have my own bike which makes it easier for me to get around. It’s also good for exercise too".
Lead of the Action Asylum Project, Rory Goldring said: "Mariam has been brilliant ever since I first met her. It's really lovely when people come to see what we got to offer but then start to introduce their own ideas as well.
"Mariam was quite clear she wanted to do more volunteering and also told me she wants to do more sport. She’s an athlete by background and has an idea about modelling too.
"She's had that spark and strength. She has been through a lot and has retained her smile and determination to get opportunities where she can find them and ultimately to do what she can to keep her kids safe and well".
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