open doors and hearts
By Rishan, Media Ambassador
At a time when global conversations about migration and refugees often turn to political debates or sensationalist headlines, the story of Duane and Joy offers a refreshing and much-needed perspective.
The couple’s decision to rent their Dover flat to a young man supported by KRAN, stems from a deep-seated commitment to addressing the challenges faced by asylum seekers and refugees. In doing so, they have not only provided housing, but also shared in a powerful experience that has transformed their lives.
Why they did it
N, from Afghanistan, is 24 and came to the UK in 2019. He was homeless with physical disabilities and approached us for help earlier this year.
Step forward Duane and Joy! For Duane, the decision to get involved was rooted in a long-standing interest in migration issues. His involvement as a trustee at Samphire, a Dover-based charity supporting migrants, fueled his desire to make a difference.
“The way refugees are often presented is just wrong,” Duane says. “These individuals are people fleeing persecution and violence, not criminals.”
His decision to rent out his flat was a conscious effort to challenge the harmful stereotypes that cloud the public’s understanding of refugees.
Joy’s motivation was equally grounded in compassion. She recognised the immense difficulty asylum seekers face in finding affordable housing, especially in a system that often marginalises them. For her, providing accommodation wasn’t just about offering a roof over someone’s head; it was an act of solidarity with those most in need.
Their experience
Both Duane and Joy, who live near Deal, found that their act of kindness gave them far more than they ever expected. As well as N, the couple also rent to a young Iranian man.
Duane’s experience with the two refugees is overwhelmingly positive. He says the two young people share stories about their struggles, their cultures and their dreams, opening his eyes to the harsh realities of fleeing violence and persecution.
“This experience has enriched our lives,” Duane reflects. “Meeting individuals from different backgrounds has given me a deeper appreciation for their resilience and the courage it takes to start a new life.
“My experience with the two young refugees has been incredibly positive. It was a chance to make new friends and really get to know them. They come from different backgrounds and hearing their stories about the struggles they faced fleeing persecution and violence has opened my eyes to the realities of their journeys."
It became obvious from speaking with Duane and Joy that they are going above and beyond what is expected of a landlord - for example, helping the young people with appointments and other issues.
A message to others
Both Duane and Joy are eager to share their message with other landlords and property owners. Duane’s advice is simple: “Think of them as people just like you and me. We are all part of the same human race.”
He stresses that when you look past someone’s background or circumstances, you discover shared hopes, dreams and struggles. There is nothing to fear; in fact, welcoming refugees can be an opportunity to enrich your own life by forming meaningful relationships across cultures.
Joy also encourages others to open their doors and hearts. Her experience has shown her that the negative stereotypes often perpetuated by the media couldn’t be further from the truth.
Refugees are role models of resilience and gratitude. She believes that anyone offering support to refugees will find it to be a positive and rewarding experience: "These are people who have gone through so much, and they are full of gratitude for the opportunities they’re given."
We need other people like Duane and Joy! If you (or someone you know) can offer a room to a refugee, or would like more information, please email Red, our Housing Caseworker: red@kran.org.uk