Asylum seekers volunteer for conservation projects in Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

In December, asylum seekers took part in coppicing activities in the AONB. This January, hedge-laying was planned but due to bad weather, the asylum seekers took part in a woodwork workshop hosted in the Harrogate and Nidderdale District Scouts activity centre, Thornthwaite where they carved wooden spatulas and spoons, sharpened hedge stakes and fashioned decorative flowers from hazel stems, with guidance from tutors from the Leeds Coppice Workers.

All those taking part are fleeing violence, war and oppression in their home countries and are in the process of applying for refugee status. They have no right to work in the UK, while applying for asylum, so volunteering as part of a conservation project offers well-being and a sense of purpose.

Matt Trevelyan, Farming in Protected Landscapes Officer at Nidderdale AONB, said: "It is such a pleasure to work alongside people from other cultures, on this occasion, Kurdish, Eritrean and Iraqi. I’m hugely impressed by the beautiful manners of these men, who show such resilience, embracing the unknown, and facing new challenges with real joy.”

A further four outings are planned to take place throughout the year, with activities including dry-stone walking and visits to working farms.