For Afghans who fled to the UK seeking safety and a better life, challenges remain. Many face language barriers, housing struggles, and difficulties finding work that matches their skills, alongside social isolation and mental health pressures.
Yet, community support and cultural networks help them adapt. Resilience, focus on education and employment, and preserving heritage enable many to gradually integrate and thrive.
A prominent example is Dr Waheed Arian, an Afghan-born doctor who arrived in the UK as a child refugee, learned English, completed his A-Levels, and graduated from Cambridge University to become an NHS emergency physician.
Even amid uncertainty and systemic challenges, Afghan families like Amir’s are gradually establishing stability and hope in the UK. Amir (name changed) shared with Asian Voice: “The biggest challenge for my family was the language barrier. Back in Afghanistan, my English was basic, and in the UK, everything, forms, doctors, council letters, felt overwhelming. Community volunteers and English classes helped us gain confidence, and now my children often assist me. Finding work was another hurdle, as my qualifications weren’t recognised and employers wanted UK experience. I started with small jobs while attending training, gradually building connections and stable work. Emotionally, leaving family behind and adjusting to a new culture was hard, but friendships with both Afghans and locals, sharing food and stories, gave comfort. Resilience and community support have been key, and though life is still challenging, we are slowly building a new sense of home here.”
Amir added that one of the most hopeful experiences has been seeing his children thrive in school. “At first, they struggled with the language and felt out of place, but supportive teachers helped them excel. Seeing them make friends and speak English confidently gives me courage. For myself, joining a local community centre opened new doors, I met people from different backgrounds, improved my English, and found training opportunities. These moments show that despite the struggles, we can build a brighter future here.”
Relocation scheme sparks high court action
The UK government faces a legal challenge after abruptly closing the Afghanistan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) on 1 July, which had offered asylum to Afghans who supported British forces. The closure follows a 2022 data breach exposing over 18,000 applicants. The London-based Afghanistan and Central Asia Association (ACAA) has begun legal proceedings, seeking a judicial review in the High Court, and will be represented by barrister George Molyneaux.
Speaking to Asian Voice, Darius Nasimi, Founder and President of Afghanistan Government in Exile and Head of Funding and Partnerships at the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association said, “The closure of the ARAP scheme has left many of us feeling deeply worried and anxious. For Afghans who worked with UK forces and are still in Afghanistan, it feels like the safety net has been pulled away. They face real threats from the Taliban simply for having supported the UK, and without a route to relocate, their lives and families are at serious risk. The closure sends a message that their service and sacrifices may not be recognised, which is both frightening and demoralising. It reinforces the urgency of legal action to protect those who are still vulnerable.”
Darius criticised the UK Government’s decision to end the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP), saying it sends a “very worrying message” to Afghans who supported British efforts during the conflict. “Ending the scheme now risks making them feel that their loyalty, courage, and the dangers they faced to help British forces are neither valued nor protected. Many may feel abandoned, vulnerable, and uncertain about their safety. It could also discourage future cooperation with international missions, knowing their support may go unrecognised. This decision undermines trust and leaves a sense of injustice for those who risked their lives to assist the UK,” he said.
Darius emphasised that beyond relocation, the UK Government could do more to help Afghans build stable lives. “Access to English and vocational training is vital for employment, while support with housing, mental health, and children’s education would ease settlement. Community integration programs, cultural exchanges, mentorship, and networking, can reduce isolation and build confidence. Clear guidance on rights, benefits, and citizenship pathways would reassure Afghans that the UK values their contributions and wants them to thrive,” he added.
