Meet Mobarak: asylum seeker & volunteer

‘I was introduced to the C4C Access Team when I arrived in the UK in August. My caseworker, Lisa found me a lawyer and I’m waiting to get refugee status. I’ve been living in a hotel for eight months – it’s like being a child again. I can’t cook for myself, I can’t leave when I want, they lock my door at night. There are so many restrictions and it’s not good for our mental health.

Lisa was so great. She was personal, passionate and asked me lots of questions and always made sure I was okay. Living in a hotel with nothing to do, I told her I needed a purpose and wanted to help so she told me I could be her translator – it was such a good idea. I’ve made good friends with Lisa, Rebecca and many other members of the Access Team.

It’s really amazing to help people who have been on a similar journey to me. I understand what they’re going through and when they speak about something, I really get them. Being part of the access team means that every day I wake up, I know I’m doing something important. I’m really hoping to get my refugee status so I can go back to Calais and help people there. I know first hand the struggles and the difficulties they face. I really love volunteering – it’s become a huge part of my life.’

Mobarak is an asylum seeker from Sudan who has been living in the UK since August 2020. He first came across Care4Calais during his three months in Calais and is now volunteering with our brilliant Access Team, working as a translator.

We always need new volunteers. If you can give 20 hours a week, we provide full training and support. Please email [email protected]