Campsfield Immigration Removal Centre has reopened, and people are once again being detained in Oxfordshire for immigration control. At Asylum Welcome, we feel deep sorrow that immigration detention has returned to our county, and we remain firmly opposed to its use. But we also recognise the immediate reality facing the people now being detained.
On Saturday 22 November, people gathered outside Campsfield House in Kidlington to oppose the planned reopening of the immigration detention centre. Asylum Welcome staff and volunteers stood alongside local residents and partner organisations, united in solidarity with people whose lives are harmed by detention. Photos (above and
Join Asylum Welcome and our neighbours across Oxford in shining a light for welcome this winter. This winter, we’re inviting everyone in Oxford to place an orange light in their window during the Oxford Christmas Light Festival (14–16 November) — a simple symbol of welcome, sanctuary, and hope for people seeking safety. The
In memory of much-loved volunteer James Throup, staff, clients, volunteers and friends ran the Oxford Half Marathon — a day filled with community, compassion and hope. “You definitely all did James proud — thank you,” said James’s mother, Julie. The team ran to honour James’s life and raise funds
We are shocked and dismayed at the Home Secretary’s decision to suspend one of the few safe routes available to sanctuary seekers. The move will devastate families and put vulnerable people at risk. Dr Hari Reed, Joint CEO of Asylum Welcome, told LBC Radio: “I was listening to the announcement with my colleagues
On Thursday 11th September, we gathered for our AGM and Annual Supporters’ Meeting — an evening full of reflection, gratitude, and celebration. Guided by our compere Ghani, the programme brought together voices from across Asylum Welcome. Our Joint CEOs, Sarah and Hari, shared their thanks for the past year
In just 48 hours, more than 2,000 people – including Oxfordshire MPs Calum Miller, Olly Glover, and Charlie Maynard, alongside faith leaders, academics, GPs, trade unionists, and community representatives – have added their names to an open letter calling for “unity and compassion in Oxfordshire (and beyond)”. The letter, organised by Asylum Welcome,
Asylum Welcome is deeply saddened by the protests taking place outside the asylum hotel in Oxford today. We are a proud city of sanctuary, where refugees are valued members of our community. People who claim asylum are legally permitted to have their asylum claims heard, and we are morally obligated
🕊 One year after far-right groups threatened our office, our message remains the same: Oxford is a place of welcome. In this update, we reflect on the ongoing challenges asylum seekers face, the urgent support we aim to provide, and how you can help build a city of sanctuary in practice — plus key
We’re looking for a new Treasurer Trustee to help guide the future of Asylum Welcome. Are you a finance leader passionate about social justice? Do you want to support a local charity working with asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants? If so, we’d love to hear from you. 💡 Can
