Glasgow rooms named after refugee advocates at Social Security Scotland

A benefits agency has named rooms in their Glasgow office in honour of two local refugee figures.

Selina Hales, founder and chief executive officer of Refuweegee, and  Remzije Sherifi, a former refugee volunteer, were recognised by Social Security Scotland staff for the impact of their work.

Selina established Refuweegee in 2015 which is a Glasgow-based charity that supports individuals displaced from their homes to feel more at home in Scotland through welcome packs, emergency support, events and volunteer opportunities.

The charity also runs food, clothing, and furniture banks.

(Image: Social Security Scotland)

She said: "I’m flattered and also really proud because it’s not just a representation of what I’ve done, it’s what this city has done to make Refuweegee possible and of that I am incredibly grateful."

Remzije was honoured for spending nearly two decades volunteering at the Maryhill Integration Network, a Glasgow community group that brings people together through art, social, cultural, and educational projects.

Both women have previously been recognised at Glasgow Times Community Champions awards.

(Image: Social Security Scotland)

Other inspirational figures including Shuggie Bain author Douglas Stuart, Paralympic gold medallist Caroline Baird MBE, and the late musician Michael Marra have rooms named after them at the agency’s offices in Glasgow and Dundee.

To mark Refugee Week, Social Security Scotland is urging people to check for their financial support eligibility.

Refugees in Scotland are entitled to the same social and economic rights as any other citizen, including benefits.

Benefit resources are available at https://bit.ly/SocialSecurityScotlandResources.