Advocacy policy

EMBRACE Advocacy Statement

EMBRACE seeks to stand alongside minority ethnic people, immigrants and those seeking asylum in matters of human rights; this may involve anti-racism training and taking part in events which raise awareness of issues relating to the welfare and rights of immigrant people. It may also mean communicating their situation and needs, and highlighting concerns in areas such as housing, education, language support, health and detention to the appropriate decision makers in local and national government. The advocacy work of EMBRACE should run with the grain of the teachings of the Christian Church when it comes to human dignity, justice and mercy

Values

The policy is to be implemented through the following values:

• Commitment to fundamental faith principles
• Commitment to inter-church/cross-community working and understanding
• Working alongside partner organisations, not in isolation
• Working with people, not on behalf of people

Limitations

There are some general factors which affect the way we can implement the advocacy policy. These are:

• Limitations of capacity
• Limitations of resources
• Conditions of agreement by Committee members

Policy Positions

As a charity we cannot and do not align with any particular political party. We recognise the sensitives and complexities around immigration policy. Different people and indeed Christians will arrive at different beliefs about the best political solutions for those most affected. Our deepest concern is for the wellbeing and welfare, safety and flourishing, welcome and embrace of those who find themselves here from other countries for many different reasons.

EMBRACE upholds the following positions regarding refugees and people seeking asylum:

• We expect people to be treated with dignity, respect and humanity
• We expect people to be supported by listening and responding to their needs, financial support, legal protection, health provision, integration into the local community and the promotion of general wellbeing
• We stand firmly against racism, xenophobia and prejudice of any kind

By sharing knowledge and experiences, we aspire to inspire action and encourage others to join us in this vital work of advocacy.

Together, we can stand up for the rights of refugees and help build a brighter future for those in need.