United Sikhs Southall Helpdesk: 5 Years Of Compassion, Transforming Into A Vital Lifeline For UK Immigrants
In the vibrant heart of Southall, a profound narrative unfolds weekly at the Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha on Park Avenue. Over the past 15 years, the UNITED SIKHS Helpdesk has been a haven for thousands, providing invaluable assistance to those navigating the intricate labyrinth of UK immigration and more.
Among the countless stories of transformation, Sukhwinder Singh's journey stands out. At 65, Singh had spent nearly three decades in London as an undocumented migrant, facing the daunting prospect of no formal documents and deteriorating health. His cherished dream was to reunite with his family in India. It was the UNITED SIKHS Helpdesk that turned this dream into reality, facilitating his return home.
The inception of the helpdesk dates back to 2008 when it primarily aided students arriving from India and Pakistan, assisting them with fundamental challenges like crafting their CVs. Miss Narpinder Mann, Senior Community Projects Advocate at UNITED SIKHS, reminisces about those early days. However, as the word spread about their altruistic work, the Helpdesk's role transcended its initial purpose. It soon became a sanctuary for the homeless and undocumented migrants from India and Pakistan, individuals often hesitant to engage with the Home Office. Miss Mann shares, "We connected them with the Indian or Pakistan High Commission and the Home Office, actively facilitating arrangements for their voluntary departure."
The Helpdesk's unwavering commitment to its mission is evident through its impressive track record. In 2009, a pivotal memorandum of understanding was signed with the UK Government, ensuring that every person seeking assistance from the Helpdesk would be treated with the utmost dignity.
Throughout its remarkable 15-year tenure, the Helpdesk has extended support to over 5,000 individuals. However, its services reach far beyond immigration matters. From aiding victims of domestic abuse to assisting the elderly in accessing medical or pension information, the Helpdesk caters to a diverse array of needs. Miss Mann emphasizes, "Our doors are perpetually open, and we endeavor to assist every person who approaches us in any way we can."
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In 2015, Miss Narpinder Mann received the prestigious British Empire Medal in recognition of her outstanding voluntary contributions to the Sikh and broader South Asian community through the UNITED SIKHS helpdesk.
In a world fraught with challenges for immigrants, entities like the UNITED SIKHS Helpdesk stand as a testament to the profound impact of community, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Their enduring legacy showcases the power of dedicated individuals making a difference in the lives of those in need.
