21 Miles to Safety

Bristol Hospitality Network is raising awareness and vital funds for refugees and destitute asylum seekers. Over the next few weeks I’m going to swim the 21-mile journey across the English Channel, by swimming about a mile a day, mirroring the small boat crossings that many brave individuals undertake in search of safety.

Why this campaign

People facing persecution often take unimaginable risks to seek sanctuary in the UK.

The Channel crossing may seem like their only hope, a desperate attempt to escape the nightmares they face.

“It was psychologically not a logical decision, but I had no other choice. Either way I’ll die; either at sea, in France or by going back to Syria. That’s how I found myself in a boat going to England.

At Bristol Network, we’re on a mission to change the narrative around seeking asylum, raise awareness of the challenges people endure, and support those made destitute by the asylum system.

I often do creative workshops with refugees and asylum seekers to encourage wellbeing and connection for people who have come to find sanctuary in our country. The people I meet are amazing and with proper support will be able to enrich our lives and help their friends and relatives.