Refugees are ordinary people. Imagine having to leave your home because of fear and persecution. If you've never experienced anything like this, that's all down to one thing - luck.

Every year people make dangerous journeys to reach our shore and claim asylum. They have fled conflict and persecution and are desperately seeking safety.

But the system they rely on in the UK all too often fails them. Instead of safety and shelter, they can be left hungry and homeless on our streets whilst they wait, sometimes years, to get a decision that in many cases is wrong.

Refugee Action works directly with refugees to help them rebuild their lives here in Britain. They provide support with housing, finances and legal aid, as well as campaigning for their rights.

I've joined Refugee Action's Race for Refugees to give hope to people forced to leave their homes. Please join me in making the UK a more welcoming place for refugees. Any support you can give me would be massively appreciated.