To celebrate 10 years of our work, the Asylum Seekers Unit hosted an event that brought together partners and stakeholders from across the city.

Presentations were given by John Lee, Chief Executive of YHN, Gaby Kitoko from African Community Advice North East, Vin Totton and Gill Foggin from the ASU, Lindsay Cross from the West End Refugee Service, and Simon Underwood from Newcastle City Council. 

Julian Whitley from the ASU gave the background to the event, introduced each speaker and thanked everyone for all their hard work in this area of work.

Speaking of the event Vin Totton, Manager of YHN’S Asylum Seekers Unit, said:

“It is a significant milestone that our Asylum Seekers Unit has reached its tenth year in operation. 

“This is ten years of providing temporary sanctuary to people who have had to flee their countries because they fear for their lives.   The Unit supports some of the most vulnerable people in our society. 

“We could not do this without the excellent partnerships we have developed across the city and beyond.  This celebration is about recognising the achievements of the Unit and extending a big thank you to the staff and to all our partners in the voluntary and statutory sectors, with whom we have accomplished so much.”

Guest speaker, Gaby Kitoko, Development Manager of partner organisation ACANE, continued:

“It is a pleasure to be asked to speak at an event which marks such an important occasion in the history of YHN’s Asylum Seekers Unit.

“We have come a long way in the past ten years and whilst we still undoubtedly have a lot of work to do within the communities which we serve, there is real cause for celebration when we look back at what has been achieved by the Unit and its partners over the past decade.”

Gaby Kitoko received an award presented by John Lee.  This was in recognition of the outstanding work ACANE have done in the region to build bridges within and between communities.  The award was specifically given to recognise the work ACANE had done for black and minority ethnic communities in the region.

76 people attended the event and on their arrival at YHN House were met with music from central Africa.  Gill Foggin from the ASU gave a brief history of the last 10 years at the ASU and she said:

 “It is lovely to see so many friends, colleagues and partners all here to celebrate our 10 years of providing our service.  It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you all.”

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