Eric’s Story

I come from the Democratic Republic of Congo to the UK in 2015.

It was very hard for me because I didn’t know where to start as a newcomer in the country. I heard a friend talking about the Islington Centre for Refugees and decided to register.

I started learning English at the Centre and I participated in many activities such as Yoga, Gym, English Classes, Speak Street activities. I have visited London’s most important and precious places, such as Buckingham Palace. It was good for me at the Centre and I made friendships and the Centre helped me to access painting and decorating at college. This was my ambition.

During the Covid 19 Lockdown, my case was rejected. It was very hard for me. I had to stop my studies and didn’t have any place to stay or support.

Islington Centre was there for me. It helped me to find accommodation and find a lawyer. While I was receiving no money from NASS or the government, the Centre supported me with Support Packages. These were essential as I had nothing at this time.

After Covid things became very stressful with my court hearing. Some members of the Centre’s community, Andy and Jane, came to be witnesses for my final appeal hearing. I am happy to say that my court appeal was successful and recently I had a positive decision from the Court. I won my case. I had a Positive Decision.

I am now ready to start my life again. I am studying painting and decorating, I am on level 2, and hopefully next year I will find a job. I will keep coming back to the Centre when I need help and I hope I can give back to the Centre.

The Islington Centre is my home. Again and again, thank you.

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