Since Nov 2015, we have seen a steady stream of Iranian asylum seekers arrive at our church - most of them after fleeing persecution in Iran for converting to Christianity from Islam. We have baptised over 40 of them and helped many more with their asylum claims, housing needs, family situations and the various problems they face trying to establish a new life for themselves in a foreign country.

Our most pressing need is some accommodation for those who have been refused visas and have been made destitute by the Home Office. They are not allowed to work, do not receive any benefits, cannot legally rent any accommodation and are in limbo , waiting to apply for a 'fresh claim'.

We currently have 4 of our asylum seekers in this situation and are trying to support them with food, pocket money, transport costs and somewhere to stay. We have managed to acquire a small 3 bedroomed shared apartment in the centre of Stockport temporarily, in which we are able to put up to 3 destitute asylum seekers but we need to cover the cost of the rent of approximately £400 a month.