New report by George Lapshynov explores the distinct and crucial role of churches in the integration of refugees and asylum seekers. 17/06/2025
About the report
Migration dominates political discussions, but the focus typically remains on reducing net migration rather than enabling those who have already arrived to settle and flourish. What if we told a different side of the story?
From Strangers to Neighbours explores the significant yet frequently overlooked role of churches across the UK in supporting the integration of refugees and asylum seekers. Addressing misconceptions and challenges surrounding church activities, the report highlights how churches complement the work of voluntary and statutory organisations. It identifies the strengths that enable churches to play a pivotal role in refugee integration, particularly their ethical framework based on Christian teachings that rejects the alienation and commodification of immigrants.
Ultimately, it calls for an improved national integration strategy, urging policymakers, charities and churches to collaborate more effectively. By recognising and supporting the unique contributions that churches can make, Britain can better welcome refugees – not merely as strangers living on this island, but as neighbours who belong, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to our society.
You can read the report here.
How–To Guides for churches and policymakers coming soon.
About the author
George Lapshynov is a Researcher at Theos. He is co–author of the Theos report Volunteering After the Pandemic: Lessons from the Homelessness Sector (with Hannah Rich) and the Theos socio–political research project Religion Counts 2024 (with Paul Bickley and Yinxuan Huang). He holds an MRes in International Relations and an MA(Hons) in History & Politics from the University of Glasgow.
