Refugees in Cardiff now have a platform to share struggles and hopes

Run by a supportive organisation in Splott, the podcast features personal stories of asylum seekers and refugees.

Kirran Lochhead Strang, one of the operators of the podcast project, has worked in Oasis for 5 years.

Refugees in Cardiff now have a platform to share their struggles and hopes, thanks to a new podcast series launched last week.

The podcast is run by Oasis Cardiff, a Splott-based organisation providing support for asylum seekers and refugees, sharing the personal stories of these refugees.

“It’s not just about telling stories,” said Kirran Lochhead Strang, one of the operators of the podcast. “We want to offer them the chance to share experiences and advice with others who have the same situations.”

Kirran is assembling the equipment, preparing to record stories from refugees at Oasis Cardiff.

Oasis has provided a wide range of services and activities to sanctuary seekers since 2008. This is their second attempt to do a podcast about refugee stories. “We want to reach those who may not be aware of refugees and asylum seekers, and we also want to inspire people who might get involved in our projects,” said Kirran.

The podcast topics are chosen by Kirran and an experienced volunteer to reflect refugees’ real lives. “We have goals like connecting people with community, helping people with mental health…So the questions were based on these goals,” said Kirran.

Oasis Cardiff team discuss their efforts to help refugees share their stories and rebuild their lives.

Due to policy restrictions, refugees and asylum seekers face significant challenges in certain areas. The second episode of the podcast focuses on the housing issues of refugees. “We’re trying to raise awareness. Hoping that people in the sectors who can do something about it will listen,” said Kirran.

After the announcement of the Rwanda Bill, refugees in the UK were under high mental pressure. In response to these challenges, Oasis strives to provide emotional and practical support to refugees. Specific activities can be viewed on their website.

The podcast, The Ripple Effect, is available on Spotify and currently features two episodes. 

The activity hall at Oasis Cardiff, a welcoming space for refugees and asylum seekers to connect and engage.