Welcome pack for New Scots

New Scots

Scotland has a long history of welcoming displaced people from all over the world who are seeking safety.

The New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy was developed in partnership by the Scottish Government, COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) and Scottish Refugee Council. It was informed by an engagement process involving over 2,000 people, including over 700 refugees and asylum seekers. It sets out Scotland's approach to supporting refugees, asylum seekers and our communities.

The New Scots vision is "For a welcoming Scotland where refugees and asylum seekers are able to rebuild their lives from the day they arrive". To achieve this vision, we work to ensure that Scotland:

• is a place of safety for everyone, where people are able to live free from persecution as valued members of communities

• enables everyone to pursue their ambitions through education, employment, culture and leisure activities

• has strong, inclusive and resilient communities, where everyone is able to access the support and services they need and is able to exercise their rights

• is a country that values diversity, where people are able to use and share their culture, skills and experiences, as they build strong relationships and connections

The New Scots Refugee Integration Strategy sees integration as a long-term, two-way process, involving positive change in both individuals and host communities, which leads to cohesive, diverse communities.