Dear friends and family, you probably know, people seeking refugee protection in Scotland are not allowed to work until they are granted Refugee Status- this process can take months and even years. But did you know, the asylum support they are given is £39.62 per week, just £5.66 per day? This money has to cover food, household items, clothes, shoes, travel, mobile phone contracts and top ups, and all other daily items. For families, this also has to cover all school necessities such as uniform, books and pencils, as well as toys and clothes for children. This budget makes day to day life extremely difficult for refugees in Scotland and the rest of the UK, often forced to choose between food and a bus ticket to travel to meet their lawyer, or sacrifice a mobile phone top up which would allow them to speak to their family.

I am taking part in the £5 a day for 5 days challenge to gain a small insight into some of the struggles these fellow human-beings face. Whatever side of the political fence you're on, I hope you see this as simply a humanitarian issue and an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the charity.

It's going to be tough but I think I can do it with your support so please give what you can. Thank you so much. Jacqui x