The Human Cost of the Asylum Seeker Debate in Dover

As the debate over asylum seekers crossing the English Channel continues, residents in Dover have mixed opinions on the matter. Some believe that too many asylum seekers are trying to enter the country, while others think that many are genuine refugees trying to escape persecution. One individual who has put a human face to the argument is Rishan, a nurse who crossed the channel at the age of 17 and is now living in Canterbury.

Rishan's story is one of resilience and perseverance. She fled Eritrea with her family to escape the dictatorship, and was raised in Sudan without any citizenship or prospects. She made the difficult decision to leave her family and make the journey to Europe, facing numerous challenges along the way. She was helped by charities and eventually gained refugee status after several years. Rishan's experience highlights the complexities of the asylum seeker debate and the need for a more nuanced approach.

Key Takeaways:

• Rishan, a nurse from Eritrea, is a media ambassador for the Kent Refugee Action Network and has spoken about her experience as an asylum seeker.
• Rishan crossed the channel at the age of 17 and faced numerous challenges, including being intercepted by Italian authorities and living on the streets.
• Only 7% of asylum seekers are female and aged 17 or under, according to the latest statistics.
• The number of asylum applications in the UK has increased significantly, from 25,771 in 2015 to 111,084 in 2025.
• The debate in the UK echoes the arguments in Australia, with concerns over rising numbers and claims that the country cannot control its borders.
• Rishan's story highlights the need for support and integration for young asylum seekers, who have the potential to contribute positively to British society.

Statistics:

• 7% of asylum seekers are female and aged 17 and under (Source: UK Government statistics)
• 25,771 asylum applications in the UK in 2015 (Source: UK Government statistics)
• 111,084 asylum applications in the UK in 2025 (Source: UK Government statistics)
• 43,600 asylum seekers arrived by boat in 2025 (Source: UK Government statistics)
• 350 cases of young unaccompanied refugees and asylum seekers helped by the Kent Refugee Action Network in 2025 (Source: Kent Refugee Action Network)
• 45,000 hours of teaching time offered by the Kent Refugee Action Network in 2025 (Source: Kent Refugee Action Network)

Sources:

• UK Government statistics
• Kent Refugee Action Network