News

Failures over use of ‘filthy’ barracks for asylum seekers – inspectors

Published

4 years ago

March 8, 2021

THERE were “fundamental failures” over accommodating asylum seekers in former military barracks, parts of which were “filthy”, inspectors have said.

The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons visited Penally Camp in Pembrokeshire and Napier Barracks in Kent. They said both sites were “run-down”.

In a preliminary report seen by The Herald the inspectors said at both locations residents described feeling trapped in poor conditions. They feared that if they moved out they would jeopardise their only source of support and possibly their asylum cases, it was concluded.

Inspectors added: “We met many men who described feeling depressed and hopeless at their circumstances. In our resident survey, all of those who responded at Napier and the vast majority at Penally said they had felt depressed at some points.

“At both sites about a third of respondents said they had mental health problems; about a third of respondents at Napier said they had felt suicidal.”

Home Secretary has been asked by Plaid Cymru to consider her position (Image: File)

However, Home Secretary Priti Patel and immigration minister Chris Philp have both previously defended the use of such sites.

There have been repeated demonstrations in both Pembrokeshire and in Kent by people from both ends of the political spectrum, and by local residents, causing security costs to spiral.

On Monday evening (Mar 8), the department repeated its assertion that “it is wrong to say it is not adequate for asylum seekers”

Naomi Phillips, director of policy and advocacy at British Red Cross, said: “These sites are completely inappropriate and inhumane as housing for people fleeing war, persecution and violence.

“The people we’ve spoken to in Penally have told us that they didn’t receive health screenings, were given little or no information about what was happening to them, and simply do not feel safe in the barracks.

“Our worst fears about the impact on people’s mental health have been realised.”

The cost of policing the camp has been higher than expected, running into millions of pounds (Pic Herald)

The BBC is reporting Labour has said the findings are “utterly unbelievable”, and Plaid Cymru called for Home Secretary Priti Patel to “consider her position”.

Inspectors said both sites – which witnessed protests over living conditions in January – were “run-down and unsuitable”, but particularly criticised Napier.

They said given the cramped, communal conditions, “once one person was infected with Covid a large-scale outbreak was virtually inevitable” at the site.

Many men said they were depressed, and a survey found a third of respondents at both sites had mental health problems, while a third at Napier had felt suicidal.

Reacting to the findings, Detention Action director Bella Sankey said: “This is the sort of report that should make decent people consider their positions.”

She called for the barracks to be closed immediately and for “those responsible fully held to account”.

Police and protestors in stand off in Penally in 2020 (Pic: Herald)

Yvette Cooper MP, chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee, said: “At a time when the Home Secretary and Permanent Secretary have told us they are making major changes to improve the culture and the humanity of the department in response to the Wendy Williams Windrush review, this report shows they haven’t yet learnt the lessons.”

Shadow immigration minister, Holly Lynch, said: “The Home Secretary has recklessly put the lives of all those staying at the sites, those working there, and the surrounding communities, at risk during a pandemic.”

Plaid Cymru’s Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts said Ms Patel “must consider her position” in the wake of the report, which highlighted “fundamental failures of leadership and planning by the Home Office”.

A spokeswoman for the Home Office said: “During these unprecedented times we have met our statutory duty to provide asylum seekers, who would otherwise be destitute, with suitable accommodation and three meals a day all paid for by the British taxpayer.

“We expect the highest possible standards from our service providers and have instructed them to make improvements at the site.”

The Home Office has said people should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach rather than making the crossings, and has said illegal migrants are being returned to safe countries.

The Home Office also said it had instructed service providers to make improvements to both camps. The government department has also said it is winding down use of the camps. In Pembrokeshire the policing costs alone have exceeded a million pounds.

Rooms in the camp were said to be too small for social distancing (Pic: Camp user)

Penally camp: Unsuitable in its current condition, said inspectors

Business

Fresh flavours at new eatery in St Davids

Published

5 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A NEW brunch spot has opened its doors in St Davids, promising a delicious twist on classic dishes in a welcoming and vibrant setting.

The Brunch House, a passion project by hospitality duo Hannah Bowie and Adam Sawyer, opened at Oriel Y Parc Visitor Centre on Saturday (Nov 16), drawing over 250 visitors on its first day.

With more than two decades of combined industry experience, Hannah and Adam have transformed the space through extensive renovations, creating an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.

Hannah, who previously ran 35 Main Street in Solva, shared her excitement: “Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, and bringing The Brunch House to life has been a dream come true. We’re thrilled to offer something fresh and unique to St Davids.”

The menu features an inspired blend of Middle Eastern flavours from Hannah’s heritage alongside brunch staples like the Full Welsh and Pancake Stack. Standout dishes, such as chicken and waffles drizzled with house-made hot maple sauce, have already earned rave reviews.

Ben Richardson, one of the first customers, said: “The chicken and waffles were absolutely delicious. We’re already planning our next visit.”

The eatery’s warm atmosphere and quality cuisine have struck a chord with the community. Bethany Ellison, a local customer, remarked: “What Hannah and Adam have created here is phenomenal. The ambience, combined with the exceptional food, makes this place truly special. I wish them every success.”

Adam added: “We’ve worked hard to make The Brunch House our own, and the support from locals and holidaymakers has been incredible. It’s been amazing to see so many people walk through our doors already.”

The Brunch House is open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm, with food served until 3:00pm.

Pictured above – Brunch with a twist: The Brunch House in St Davids run by Adam Sawyer and Hannah Bowie is the newest spot to enjoy freshly made dishes

Community

Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair

Published

6 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

GET ready to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as Haverfordwest hosts its inaugural Riverside Winter Fair on Saturday, November 30th.

This free, family-friendly event promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.

The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food.

Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a “Taste of Pembrokeshire” food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.

For families with younger children, Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11am to 5pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.

At 12noon children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area.

They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!

Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-5pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor BBQ and bar for revellers.

Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School’s children’s choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band.

This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest’s rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.

Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and skanking.

And for the grand finale Pure West Radio Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12noon, leading up to the grand moment when the town’s Christmas lights illuminate at 6pm. As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.

For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of the various rides.

To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!

Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day.

The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Visit the website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk

Programme of events

11am-5pm Winter Market @ Haverhub

11am-5pm Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square

11am-5pm Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre

11:45am Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square

12noon Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay

12:10pm Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay

12-5pm BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader

12-6pm Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre

6pm Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.

Charity

Pembrokeshire charities shortlisted for Welsh Charity Awards

Published

6 hours ago

November 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THREE Pembrokeshire organisations have been shortlisted for this year’s Welsh Charity Awards, set to take place on Monday (Nov 25) at the National Museum Cardiff.

The event, which coincides with the start of Welsh Charities Week, celebrates the contributions of charities, community groups, and volunteers across Wales. Representing the county are Milford Haven’s Megan’s Starr Foundation and Milford Youth Matters, alongside Narberth-based SPAN Arts.

The awards, organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action), are the only event dedicated to honouring the voluntary sector in Wales. A record 239 nominations were received this year.

Megan’s Starr Foundation

MEGAN’S STARR FOUNDATION, founded by Nicola Harteveld, is nominated in the Health and Wellbeing category, sponsored by Leaderful Action. The charity supports young people in Pembrokeshire facing mental health challenges, providing free counselling, peer support, and skill-building programmes.

The team said: “This nomination celebrates the heart and soul of our work. Every young person, volunteer, and family member who finds hope and belonging at Megan’s Starr is part of this incredible journey.

“Winning would inspire us to dream bigger, support more, and build a stronger, compassionate future together.”

Harteveld was Volunteer of the Year at last year’s awards.

Milford Youth Matters

MILFORD YOUTH MATTERS has been shortlisted for Fundraiser of the Year, co-sponsored by Thomas Carroll and Zurich Municipal. A fundraising team of seven young individuals, aged 15, has raised £10,000 annually through events such as a charity golf day, reshaping perceptions of young people in Milford Haven.

A spokesperson said: “This nomination recognises the dedication and hard work of our team, who have raised vital funds while developing skills and confidence to reach their full potential. We are extremely proud of their commitment.”

SPAN Arts

SPAN ARTS, based in Narberth, is a finalist in the Welsh Language category, sponsored by Mentrau Iaith. The organisation delivers bilingual arts programmes that celebrate community identity, inclusivity, and accessibility.

Director Bethan Touhig-Gamble said: “SPAN is based in an incredible bilingual county, where the Welsh language is part of the shared culture and identity. To have the work of our volunteers, trustees, staff, and creatives recognised is truly rewarding.”

WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “We’re delighted to have had a record number of nominations this year – 239 in total. That’s testimony to the quality work undertaken by volunteers, community groups, and charities across Wales. I couldn’t be more excited to meet the finalists on Monday and find out who’s scooped the top awards.”

The Welsh Charity Awards highlight the difference made by charities and volunteers across the country. For a full list of finalists, visit the Welsh Charity Awards website.

(Cover image: Milford Youth Matters receive a cheque from Tesco)