The power of lived experience voices in advocating for change

My name is Mary and I’ve been campaigning with the Lift the Ban coalition, a campaign that calls for people seeking asylum to be allowed to work while waiting for a decision on their claim. This issue is very close to my heart because I have lived through the struggle of not being allowed to work. It was frustrating, isolating, and deeply unfair. All I wanted was the chance to use my skills, contribute to society, and support myself and my family. However, for a long time I wasn’t allowed to. Thankfully I now have the right to work, but I haven’t forgotten how hard that time was. That is why I continue to campaign.

I joined a local campaigns group RAS Voice, where I found a space to share my story and connect with others who understood the pain and pressure of waiting without purpose. Through this group, I had the opportunity to meet my local MP, Christian Wakeford. I was nervous as I wasn’t sure if my voice would matter. But with the support of the group, I gathered the courage to speak honestly about my experience. 

The meeting took place in a quiet conference hall. I remember the MP walked in along with his assistant looking a little formal at first. But as we sat down and began to talk, his attitude shifted. He leaned in, nodded as he really paid attention. During the meeting, I told him what it felt like to be stuck in limbo, unable to work, while my hopes and skills slowly faded. I spoke about the mental health impact, the loss of dignity, and the feeling of being forgotten. I shared the emotional toll it took, the loss of independence, and how helpless it felt to have no control over my future. Other members of the group shared similar experiences, and I could see how much it resonated with them too. That shared moment made us feel stronger, and I believe it helped the MP understand that this isn’t just one person’s story rather the reality for thousands. The MP asked thoughtful questions, and it was clear he was moved. 

A few weeks later, that same MP stood up in Parliament and spoke about our meeting. He shared parts of my story not just as statistics, but as real, human experiences. He also publicly acknowledged the need for change and apologised for past comments he had made about refugees and people seeking asylum. It was a powerful moment. Hearing my story mentioned in Parliament brought tears to my eyes. I felt like my voice had power. 

That moment changed something in me. It gave me confidence. I realised that lived experience is not just important, it’s necessary. People who have gone through these challenges can speak with truth and urgency. Our stories can touch hearts, challenge assumptions, and push for change in ways that facts alone cannot. 

Since that meeting, I’ve continued to speak out. I’ve joined more events, supported others to share their stories, and encouraged people to speak to their own MPs. Campaigning isn’t always easy, but every conversation matters. 

If you’re reading this and you’ve experienced the asylum system or having no right to work, remember your voice matters. Your story could be the one that shifts someone’s view or sparks a change in a place of power. If you want to get involved with Lift the Ban, visit https://lifttheban.co.uk.

There are many ways to take part like writing to your MP to joining a local group. Together, we can create a fairer system, one where everyone has the chance to live in dignity and hope. 

Let’s keep lifting our voices. Let’s keep lifting the ban.