Introduction
Migration dominates political discussions, but the focus typically remains on reducing net migration rather than enabling those who have already arrived to settle and flourish. What if we told a different side of the story?
From Strangers to Neighbours explores the significant yet frequently overlooked role of churches across the UK in supporting the integration of refugees and asylum seekers. Addressing misconceptions and challenges surrounding church activities, the report highlights how churches complement the work of voluntary and statutory organisations. It identifies the strengths that enable churches to play a pivotal role in refugee integration, particularly their ethical framework based on Christian teachings that rejects the alienation and commodification of immigrants.
Ultimately, we call for an improved national integration strategy, urging policymakers, charities and churches to collaborate more effectively. By recognising and supporting the unique contributions that churches can make, Britain can better welcome refugees – not merely as strangers living on this island, but as neighbours who belong, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to our society.
For this project, we collaborated with award–winning portrait photographer, John Boaz. His series of photographs, produced to accompany and illustrate the report, speak to the humanity of refugees when our discussions on migration are often numbers focused.
Our Report
Our report From Strangers to Neighbours: The Church and the Integration of Refugees and our key recommendations are available to download here.
Our ‘How–to’ guides
Want to improve refugee integration in your local area? Find our practical guidance by downloading our ‘How–to’ guides for churches and policymakers here.
Blogs
An Island of Neighbours? The Government’s New Focus on Integration
Stories of Refugee integration
In the news
Church Times: Neighbours, not foreigners
With special thanks to the MB Reckitt Trust and Susannah Wesley Foundation.
