28 Jan 2026
Migrants aren’t responsible for our deeply unequal society, the higher cost of living and poor public services. They're not responsible for the climate extremes that are costing lives and livelihoods here in the UK and overseas.
We must not allow racism and hatred to be used to distract us from holding the government and multinational companies accountable for their failings.
Who’s most at risk from climate extremes?
UNICEF and the World Health Organisation identify children as particularly at risk from climate extremes. Women and girls, disabled people and those with chronic illness are also identified. We shouldn’t be turning our back on people fleeing wars or climate extremes, or attacking them when they arrive in the UK.
What can local authorities do to protect asylum seekers?
Local authorities have a legal duty to look after asylum seekers. As part of fulfilling these duties they should ensure these people are welcomed into the community and challenge misinformation.
What can the government do to help migrants?
The government needs to:
- Talk more about the culture and economic benefits that immigration has brought to our society.
- Talk about our NHS and care homes relying on migrant workers to care for residents in our communities.
- Ensure councils, health services and schools have the resources they need to accommodate people new to the UK.
- Stop the racist scapegoating of refugees and migrants used to distract from decades of under-investment.
Curbing immigration won’t fix our public services, only proper investment will.
Who should pay for climate change damage?
Burning fossil fuels is the biggest cause of the climate extremes that are destroying lives, livelihoods and homes around the world. Oil and gas companies have made massive profits from selling fossil fuels. It’s time to make the polluters and wealthy pay their fair share.
Watch out for migration disinformation
High profile politicians, the media and some on social media are spreading misinformation deliberately aimed at stirring-up hatred and division. This has led to violence in communities. Be ultra-cautious about what to believe and try to counter disinformation where you can.
Your voice matters
During elections politicians make more of an effort to listen. Tell them you want your local authority to welcome refugees. Tell them you stand against division and distraction from the cost of living and climate crises. Tell them people here and from around the world are suffering from climate crises Ask them to sign-up to Friends of the Earth’s Charter for Climate Hope.