Welcome With Dignity: A Quality Improvement Project for Asylum Seekers and Refugees

Abstract

Burnley has seen a growing number of refugees and asylum seekers resettled in recent years. As of March 2024, there were approximately 431 asylum seekers residing in Burnley, accounting for about 0.46% of the town’s population. Many arrive with little knowledge of English, unfamiliarity with the NHS, and local services and cultural norms. These factors can lead to isolation, difficulties accessing essential support, and poorer health outcomes.

We developed and distributed a simple, cohesive welcome pack for newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers in Burnley, aiming to improve their access to key local services (such as healthcare, housing, and social support) and reduce reported confusion or isolation. The long-term aim is for the welcome pack to be incorporated into the pack placed in Serco Housing when people first arrive in Burnley.