Jesmond Library is opening its doors on Monday (6th December) morning from 10am to midday to receive donations of warm clothing for refugees in need.

As a community, Jesmond has been aiding refugees for several years. St George’s Church has organised events and collections of toiletries, tea, coffee, and sweet treats during the summer months, as well as a Christmas collection of warm clothing and treats. St Hilda’s Church in Jesmond has been providing information on asylum seeker status and ways money can be donated to support this vulnerable group.

Following the tragic death of 27 migrants in the English Channel last month, the West End Refugee Service (WERS) has organised a vigil for Monday (6th December) at 4pm at Sharpness Point in Tynemouth.

In a statement, WERS said: “We have a responsibility to provide protection (to) these people (who) are fleeing war and persecution; they are making these treacherous journeys because their lives are in danger.

“These deaths were avoidable. They are a failure of this government… the new nationality and borders bill will do nothing to stop this suffering. It will continue to play into the business model of people smuggling.”

For more information on how to help refugees and asylum seekers this winter, visit https://www.wers.org.uk/

To learn more about the Anti-Refugee Bill, visit https://www.refugee-action.org.uk/why-we-call-it-the-anti-refugee-bill/