Hay, Brecon & Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR) held an event at Hay Castle recently to highlight its campaign for a kinder and fairer asylum system.

Pupils from Hay School took part in making willow-framed ragged hearts, which were intended as gifts for families and a symbol of welcome to refugees. The activity took place in the Clore Room and Great Hall, giving students a warm, comfortable space to work.

Supporters visiting during the day included Jane Dodds MS, while MP David Chadwick sent his best wishes despite being unable to attend. In the Great Hall, volunteers Lawrence, Claire and Rowland spoke with visitors, joined at times by Melrose, Robert, Virginia and Sean. The Clore Room provided a cosy space for conversation and craft, with Rev Anna Bessant, Sue, Lou, Melrose, Ailsa and Margaret assisting Heather and Matt from the Crafters Café and the pupils. Rev Anna also read stories about refugees, including one about Jesus’s donkey, which helped him escape as a child refugee to Egypt.

Visitors included a Greek couple who made a donation and spoke about the importance of welcoming refugees, reflecting on recent deaths in the Mediterranean and ongoing global conflicts.

HBTSR said the campaign message, “Let’s Make Things Work for Everyone,” calls for faster asylum decisions, the right for asylum seekers to work, and recognition of the positive contribution refugees can make to communities. Volunteers stressed that refugees are not responsible for wider economic challenges such as rising bills and stretched public services.

A spokesperson for HBTSR said: “Thank you to everyone who helped organise the day, to the Castle Trust and its staff and volunteers for their warm welcome, to Hay School for their enthusiastic participation, and to all the visitors who offered such encouragement and support.

More information on HBTSR is available at: https://hbtsr.cityofsanctuary.org