Mentsenot Abebe, an Eritrean asylum seeker, is building a new life in Worcester, contributing to the community while learning English.
At 30 years old, Menty is diving into learning English and has already started giving back to the community. He volunteers at the Salvation Army shop and helps out at Junior Parkrun. Since he can’t work for pay right now, he keeps busy by tending to allotments.
Menty has a great support system, including Brian Darwood, the chairman of Worcester City Welcomes Refugees. He’s hopeful about returning to Eritrea one day when it’s safe, but for now, he’s focused on fitting in and contributing to his new home.
He enjoys participating in Parkrun events at Worcester Woods and Pitchcroft, often finishing near the front. Menty also takes English lessons twice a week and travels to a Pentecostal church in Birmingham on Sundays.
Thanks to Worcester City Welcomes Refugees, he received a bike, part of a project that has given out nearly 100 bikes to refugees and asylum seekers. This initiative helps them explore the city and feel a sense of freedom. Some bikes are donated, while others are purchased by the charity.
Menty shared, “Living in Eritrea is dangerous. Here, life is good. Everyone is friendly. My main goal is to learn English, and then I want to work. I’m eager to get started.” Unfortunately, his asylum seeker status limits him to unpaid volunteer work for now.
Brian Darwood mentioned that they’re always looking for more bike donations as the demand keeps growing. He explained how they refurbish donated bikes through a local social enterprise, making it easier for refugees to get around.
After a year, Menty can apply to the Home Office for work permission, but the waiting game can be tough for asylum seekers wanting to engage with the community and gain independence.
Darwood emphasized that without bikes, life could feel even more restricted for refugees. He appreciates the diversity in Worcester, saying it enriches the city.
The bike project gives refugees the freedom to explore, especially when the weather is nice. Some folks prefer staying indoors, while others, like Menty, are eager to get out and connect with the community.
Menty is still in the process of interviews with the Home Office to secure his leave to remain, and Darwood noted that waiting times are getting better. Worcester City Welcomes Refugees has been around for about three years, helping those fleeing conflict in places like Syria and Afghanistan.
Darwood pointed out that most asylum seekers in Worcester are escaping war and persecution, but some are also economic migrants looking for a better life.
