Suitable clothing and shoes, as well as overalls, gloves, kit bags and tools are being sought for asylum seekers in Aberdeenshire so that they can carry out odd jobs in the local community. 

Around 150 asylum seekers are currently being housed in the Hampton Hotel in Westhill. While they await processing, local organisations have come together to help them integrate into the community. 

Aberdeenshire Council, Westhill & Elrick Community Council, local church groups, Westhill Men’s Shed, Westhill Lions and the Rotary Club are supporting the men, aged between 18 and 45, who have fled countries such as Iran, Afghanistan and Iraq. This has involved providing them with clothes and other necessities, as well as games to pass the time and second-hand bicycles to get around on. 

Dave Dent, a well-known subsea entrepreneur based in Westhill and member of the Westhill & District Rotary Club, is encouraging local businesses to donate workwear and equipment so that these asylum seekers can contribute more effectively to supporting local projects such as the Orbital Track and weeding around the new saplings in Carnie Woods which require large numbers of volunteers.

He said: 
“This situation in Westhill has been forced upon us, with no consultation. Regardless of the differing views on the UK’s approach to supporting asylum seekers, it’s in everyone’s interest that we make the best of the situation. 

“In speaking to these men, it’s clear they are keen to play a part in the local community and express their gratitude by doing something useful while they wait to be processed. 

“We’ve already set up a small bike repair enterprise and the lads have helped out at the “Lazy Sunday afternoon picnic” and various gardening projects at the Ashdale Hall.  They also helped with the recent Westhill litter pick, which was very much appreciated. 

“In most cases, they’ve arrived here with nothing but the clothes on their backs. We’d like to involve them in other community improvement projects but they need suitable clothing and equipment. We are therefore calling on local businesses to see if they can donate items such as PPE and basic tools.”

Mr Dent is confident that local businesses will rally round and join local residents in helping integrate them into the community.

He added: 
“Residents of Westhill have already demonstrated community spirit and generosity by donating second-hand clothes, bikes, helmets and bike locks to the asylum seekers and, as a result of their welcome, Westhill has been recognised as an exemplar of integration by the Home Office.”

Businesses who would like to get involved can contact David Dent at davidwdent25@gmail.com.

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