"The United Kingdom has a proud tradition of providing a place of safety for genuine refugees." UK Borders Agency

Dear Supporter,

Across the world, persecution and conflict drives millions of people to abandon their homes and families. Every refugee is the result of a government's failure to protect human rights. Some of these people come to the UK to seek asylum – in other words, to seek protection and safety.

In October 2009, with food prices rocketing, asylum support in the UK was cut to £35 a week. This must cover not only food but also clothing, school books, toiletries and travel. Many asylum seekers arrive without friends or family and are therefore unable to benefit from bulk-buying food. While waiting to hear the result of their claim, asylum seekers must often travel frequently to access legal advice, language classes and make obligatory trips to the Home Office reporting centre. It can be difficult if not impossible to put enough aside for such basics as winter coats and shoes, pushchairs and cooking utensils.

Amnesty's goal is to bring about a fair and effective asylum system. We are asking the government to uphold their "proud tradition" and end the destitution of asylum seekers. All too often the media portrayal of asylum seekers is extremely negative so it's critical that we can demonstrate public support for fair treatment.

In the next week or so, the government will decide how much support to give asylum seekers in the next financial year. Please ask your MP to urge the Home Secretary to ensure that asylum seekers receive at least 70% of Income Support and no less than £45 a week for single adults. Please show your support for this vulnerable group and visit writetothem.com, enter your postcode and send a personal message to your MP today  – by writing to them in your own words in this way you can be sure to make them take notice.

With many thanks,

Jan Shaw
Refugee Programme Director