Multicultural event in East Kilbride
Members of the community in East Kilbride turned out for a multicultural inclusion day organised by local officers and partners to welcome asylum seekers who are beginning a new chapter in their lives in the town.
The event held at East Kilbride Town Centre saw asylum seekers who have been housed locally join charities, organisations, officers and members of the community.
The four hour event gave those who had recently arrived in the area the chance to speak to representatives from organisations and charities who can offer help and support.
It also gave members of the local community the opportunity to speak to those who sought asylum, while trying food from different countries which people attending the event prepared.
The event aimed to bring people together and help dispel any apprehension in the local area.
Constable Thom Alexander, Community Officer for East Kilbride town centre said: “I wanted to organise an event to bring the local community together and I’m delighted to say that it was a success. It is evident from today that there is a lot of community spirit in East Kilbride.
“Some people seeking asylum have been housed nearby and this event gave us the opportunity to welcome them to the area while making them aware of the support and help available to them.
“It gave them the chance to meet new people, share their stories and enjoy food from a variety of countries.
“A number of partner organisations and charities turned out to support the event including Mears, Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire (VASLAN) and Bikes for Refugees and I can’t thank them enough for making it such a success.
“I received positive feedback from those who attended and I hope that this event showed there is support locally for anyone who needs it. I would like to wish them well as they settle into their new lives in East Kilbride.”
James Cherry, Partnership Manager at Mears said: “The event has been really good and we were pleased with the turnout.
“People have been very inquisitive and got the chance to speak to officers, organisations, volunteers and staff. It has been a great opportunity for people to integrate.”
