Many of us spend the festive season surrounded by friends and family, enjoying food, conversation and company with the ones we love.
But for men, women and children who are starting again in Scotland after fleeing war and persecution, the winter months can be long, cold and lonely.
Ifran* fled his home to escape torture and persecution. He arrived in Scotland with his wife Fatima and their six children.
Leaving everyone and everything behind to start again in an unfamiliar country has been incredibly hard for the whole family. Facing all that in an increasingly harsh and hostile environment is harder still.
“We fell down so many times, but Scottish Refugee Council was there for us. Each time I spoke with my caseworker, it was giving me hope. It wasn’t our plan to come to Scotland, but I know my children are safe here. They have a bright future.” - Ifran
*Names have been changed to keep Ifran and his family safe
