Asylum Welcome is delighted by Oxfordshire County Council’s announcement today of a six-month pilot scheme to provide free bus travel for asylum seekers living in Oxford.
Developed in partnership with local bus companies, this initiative marks a significant step toward breaking down mobility barriers that limit asylum seekers’ access to essential services and community life.
The announcement is also a testament to the advocacy efforts of Asylum Welcome’s Local Action Group—campaigners with lived experience—who, working with Citizens UK, have campaigned all year to bring about this change.
For asylum seekers surviving on a weekly allowance of just £8.86, transport costs often restrict access to vital appointments as well as participation in everyday activities, contributing to social and emotional isolation. With the introduction of this new bus travel scheme, asylum seekers will have greater freedom to move around Oxford, building confidence in using public transport and engaging more fully with the community.
In the words of our Director, Mark Goldring:
“This is a really positive commitment by Oxfordshire County Council. It enables asylum seekers to study, volunteer, worship, and prepare for future work. By reducing isolation, this scheme improves well-being and fosters the sense of inclusion that Oxfordshire is working hard to promote.”
The scheme also aligns with Oxfordshire County Council’s recent pledge to become a Council of Sanctuary, following a cabinet commitment made in June.
As Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of the Council, says:
“This will promote and enable integration and help the individuals in question build connections with local people. It will also assist them in the longer term to become economically active and contribute to the community in which they live.”
The pilot project will support approximately 275 asylum seekers living within Oxford City. Asylum Welcome looks forward to assisting in the scheme’s administration.
