THE Bishop of Southampton has described an emotional meeting with refugees and asylum-seekers who have come to Britain in search of a better life.

The Right Rev Debbie Sellin joined a regular gathering at Avenue St Andrew's United Reformed Church, home of a multicultural centre that welcomes around 50 people every week.

Bishop Debbie talked to fellow visitors about their lives and the level of support provided by churches and community groups.

She said: "It was moving to hear their stories and hopes for the future.

"These drop-in sessions provide the most vulnerable in society with an opportunity to come together, feel part of the community and make friends.

"It was a joy seeing how churches and other parts of the community were supporting those in need."

The Avenue Multicultural Centre was established several years ago by City Life Education and Action for Refugees (CLEAR), the British Red Cross and St Andrew’s.

It is supported by Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group, a band of volunteers who befriend refugees and people seeking asylum in the Southampton area.

Catherine Hartley, vice-chair of the group, said: "At SWVG we want to welcome refugees with emotional and practical support.

"We want these drop-in sessions to provide a warm, friendly environment where people can feel at home, relax, and try to find the help they need.

“We are very grateful for the time Bishop Debbie spent with us, talking to people seeking asylum and listening with understanding and empathy. We thank her for her support for our cause.”

SWVG is one of many organisations supporting the Orange Heart Campaign, launched by Together with Refugees.

The orange heart logo, designed with the help of refugees and asylum-seekers, represents compassion for people fleeing war and persecution.

A statement on the SWVG website says: "Since 1951, 144 countries worldwide have signed up to an internationally-binding UN agreement to protect refugees in search of safety.

"The UK has a long and honourable tradition of welcoming people from other countries in need of sanctuary.

"People worry about pressure on tax-funded services and see asylum-seekers as part of the problem, forgetting our responsibilities under international law.

"The fact is, asylum-seekers formed just 5% of all UK immigrants in 2016 (30,747 out of a total of 588,000)."