Communities and neighbourhoods

Asylum and Immigration

New arrivals, including asylum seekers, refugees and migrant workers, can contribute to rapid change in communities which can be destabilising.

Some established members of a community may perceive new arrivals as a threat; a strategy to prepare for new arrivals minimises any risk of a rise in tensions.

Educating established communities about the culture and background of new arrivals and genuine consultation about their arrival are measures that can increase the understanding, respect for differences and empathy of a 'receiving community'.

Involvement of schools, health services and community centres can facilitate the process of raising awareness, as can effective use of the media, for example to relate the experiences and circumstances of new arrivals as well as to help 'myth busting' inaccurate information that might otherwise circulate unchallenged.

Equally, the needs of the new arrivals must also be considered; these vary greatly according to their circumstances and background. Local authorities and the voluntary sector both provide a range of services and support to new arrivals; Cohesion and Faiths Unit liaise nationally and regionally to identify and promote good practice. We also liaise with the UK Border Agency (external link) at the Home Office to ensure communities receiving new arrivals are welcoming and cohesive.