Merton Asylum Welcome is a Drop-In Centre receiving between 50 and 70 asylum seekers or refugees each week. They come from different countries throughout the world: the most numerous people are Sri Lankans, Kosovars, Iraqis, Iranians. All of them are often desperately in need of some support. there are single, elderly, mothers on their own and families. There is a team of volunteers: some of them help in the kitchen to prepare a meal, to wash up or to give second-hand clothes and household items ( I am on this side of the welcome centre), some other volunteers listen to them and deal with the many and various problems. An advice worker, a health visitor and an Education advisor offer a great help. Merton Churches Group works in partnership with our Centre to provide individual emergency relief funding, loans, grants for education,courses... Visitors and volunteers are happy to meet each week in this friendly and supportive place.