New Economics Foundation: “The UK economy would grind to a halt without the contribution of migrant workers”
The UK economy would take a hit of £328m if migrants stopped working for the day, according to fresh research by the New Economics Foundation. That represents 4% of total UK daily GDP.
The finding comes on the day that tens of thousands of people across Britain (Monday 20 February 2017) join together under the banner One Day Without Us to celebrate the contribution to this country of people born overseas.
Among the actions planned by the One Day Without Us campaign, a number of businesses will close for the day to make the point that Britain couldn’t manage for even one day without the contribution of migrants.
More information here
Caring for Our Common Home: Hallam Diocese J&P Study Day
This ecumenical study day uses Pope Francis’ Encyclical ‘Laudato Si’ as a starting point to see how churches and communities CAN make a difference – practically, politically, educationally and spiritually.
Speakers include ELLEN TEAGUE (Coumban Missionaries) and RUTH VALERIO (A Rocha, Tear Fund) as well as local experience of embracing the Eco Church and Live Simply initiatives
All are very welcome
Admission is free but booking is strongly recommended.
Please contact gryan@hallam-diocese.com with any queries.
More information and booking details
Save the Children statement on launch of offensive into Western Mosul
Statement from Maurizio Crivallero, Save the Children’s Iraq Country Director:
Sunday, 19 February 2017 – 11:12am
“An estimated 350,000 children are trapped in western Mosul, and the impact of artillery and other explosive weaponry in those narrow, densely-populated streets is likely to be more deadly and indiscriminate than anything we have seen in the conflict so far.
“Families in western Mosul tell us escape is not an option – if they try to flee they risk summary execution by ISIS fighters or a gauntlet of sniper fire and landmines. Last week we heard of a family of nine who were all shot as they tried to flee. People trapped in their homes are running out of food, water and medicine.
“This is the grim choice for children in western Mosul right now: bombs, crossfire and hunger if they stay – or execution and snipers if they try to run.
“Iraqi forces and their allies, including the US and UK, must do everything in their power to protect children and their families from harm, and avoid civilian buildings like schools and hospitals as they push deeper into the city. To a child it doesn’t matter where the bombs come from — it’s where they fall.
“Safe escape routes for civilians must also be established as soon as possible. Once families have made it out, we can reach them with life-saving aid and start helping children to rebuild their lives after more than two years under ISIS rule.”
STATEMENT ENDS
More information here
The Home Affairs Committee report on system for asylum accommodation: NJPN response
It is unacceptable that those who have fled intolerable and dangerous situations, leaving behind homes and treasured possessions, should not find a welcome among us.
We must, however, recognise the fact that many of our fellow citizens also feel like strangers in a society where they feel increasingly excluded from the mainstream and are equally inadequately housed. It cannot be a question of ‘them or us’ where vulnerable groups are used as political footballs.
We reconise that there is a national shortage of decent affordable housing but in a highly developed country all people must have access to a safe space where they may live with dignity and achieve both physical and mental well-being. We must continually raise our voices and support those groups and agencies working for a fair distribution of resources and a comprehensive housing policy where no one is forced to merely exist in a place which diminishes their humanity.
Anne Peacey
For Catholic Universe 17.2.17
Home affairs committee conclusions and recommendations
***NJPN Action of the Week*** Shelter: Help us make renting more stable
We believe everyone should have the right to a secure, stable home; an opportunity to put down roots and plan for the future. Short-term rental contracts prevent renters from being able to enjoy this security.
We don’t think this is right, and we know you don’t either. Last year, 89% of you told us you thought short-term rental contracts were unfair.
The government have said they want to do more for renters, and they’re encouraging landlords of newly built homes to offer three-year tenancies. But this isn’t enough: it will take years to improve the lives of England’s 11 million renters. Renters can’t wait – they need urgent change now.
Together we can push the government to take bolder steps – and sooner.
Help us have the biggest impact we possibly can – sign our petition!
Add your name
One Day Without Us: National Day Of Action
On Monday 20 February a series of events will be taking place around the country to celebrate the role of migrants in the UK and combat the rise in xenophobia.
Together, we can beat the hate.
Make February 20 a day of protest, solidarity and celebration.
Together for the Common Good February 2017
Good Neighbours?
“If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? ….If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else?” (Matt 5:46-47)
In this edition T4CG highlights examples of this reconciliation instinct at work across the churches – in communities, business, financial inclusion, relationship building.
Download newsletter here:
Oxfam: Have you drawn a line yet?
Already thousands of you have drawn a line, urging your MPs to help stop the sale of British made arms for use in Yemen. The pressure is mounting, with the government facing tough questions from MPs in parliament. And last week a judicial review put the spotlight on our government’s actions, with the UK accused of violating International Humanitarian Law.
You’re standing up for people in a dire situation – and standing up against immoral behaviour from our own government. But in the meantime, millions of men, women and children in Yemen are just one step away from famine. We have to keep the pressure up.
If you’re not one of the people who has written to their MP, please do so today. We simply can’t stand by while British-made bombs fuel the crisis in Yemen.
Not written to your MP yet?
Lancaster Faith and Justice Commission Newsletter
The latest issue of the Lancaster Faith and Justice Commission provides information on events and awareness raising opportunities. Topics addressed this month include a report on ‘Children in Custody, an update on ‘Care for Calais’ as well as an article on development aid by John Battle
Download the newsletter here
London Catholic Worker: live-in volunteers and community members
London Catholic Worker is currently looking for new live-in volunteers and community members for their house of hospitality in North London.
If you think this is something you would be interested in and would like further details
Click here
or download poster here:
Volunteers wanted
