Migration: Understanding the facts

There are many reasons that a person may leave their home country to move to the UK.

Some people have moved because they wanted to but for others this may not have been a choice but a necessity. Some young people have fled their home countries because of dangerous situations happening there whilst others have may have moved to find better opportunities.

Whatever the reason behind their move, it can often have been a very challenging experience and it is important to recognise that everyone’ journey is unique to them. We hear terms such as asylum seeker, refugee, immigrant and migrant but what is more important is getting the know the person as an individual. If you know a child or young person who has moved here, it is kind to have empathy for what they may have experienced.

Why people are forced to leave their country?

• There are many reasons why people feel they have no choice but to leave their country. Some reasons could include:
  They are in danger because of their race, religion, nationality, sexual preferences or political beliefs.
• Escaping war or violence
• Escaping a natural disaster
• Escaping the impact of climate change
• To be safe

Why do people choose to leave their country?

There are many reasons why people choose to leave their country. Some reasons could include:

• To improve their quality of life (get a better job opportunity, better house, better healthcare)
• To be with their family
• To study
• The weather

Click here to learn more about relocating after trauma and difficult life events.

Click here to learn more about taking care of yourself after a difficult life event.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively, you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Refugees and asylum seekers: facts and figures (redcross.org.uk)
  
• w: Refugee Week - BBC