A Motherwell welcome was in store for 25 Lanarkshire-based asylum seekers, after the Well Society invited them to Saturday’s match.
The men – who have fled from countries such as Iran, Iraq and Syria – enjoyed a goal fest as the Steelmen cruised to a 4-1 victory over Livingston FC.
The Society worked alongside the East Kilbride Integration Network (EKin), a local group who welcome, support and help new migrants in the area make connections.
At a small pre-match reception the Society found out a bit more about their work, and got a flavour of what life has been like for those who have unexpectedly found themselves in Lanarkshire.
The Society were supported by the Club’s commercial department to host the visitors. Motherwell’s Commercial Director Suzanne Reid said: “Inclusion is what this Club and the community are about. Providing the opportunity for the group to come to a match and enjoy everything that goes with that was the least we could do.”
The Well Society’s Derek Watson said: “These men have had to flee their homes, leaving their families behind, thousands of miles away. They are effectively in limbo, worrying about what is happening back home.
“As part of our ongoing work to support the community, we wanted to give them an enjoyable day out at Fir Park. What struck me was that we were able to connect over a universal theme – football. I hope that coming along as our guests has given them a bright spot in an otherwise difficult situation.”
Simon Jeacocke, Co-Founder of EKin, said: “We have been incredibly humbled by the support of local sporting clubs who have welcomed East Kilbride Integration Network with open arms.
“It is vital that we welcome asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants into our community. Many in our area have fled violence and persecution, seeking safety and a fresh start. At Fir Park, time was taken by Motherwell FC to get to know each person we brought and although many different languages were spoken on the day, football brought us all together.
“EKin are dealing with people who arrived in Scotland at the worst time in their lives, often with no connection to the area, no language to communicate, no understanding of the systems and structures in our society, and only the shoes on their feet. The Well Society have role modelled inclusion beautifully by extending a hand, offering a touch of normality and welcoming these individuals to their club.”