The article discusses Refugee Week, emphasizing the urgent need for compassion and inclusion for refugees and asylum seekers while critiquing the UK's asylum system.

It reflects on the impact of policies initiated during Theresa May's tenure, particularly the hostile environment towards immigrants established in 2012.

Tawseef Khan's novel 'Determination' explores how Home Office policies alienate vulnerable individuals, narrated through the eyes of Jamila, who inherits her father's law firm.

In contrast, Tom Gaisford's 'Sanctuary' critiques the dehumanizing conditions of immigration removal centers, telling the story of Alex Donovan, a refugee lawyer uncovering corruption.

Despite the bleak realities portrayed, both authors weave in themes of love, joy, and resistance, highlighting resilience against systemic cruelty.

Both authors emphasize the importance of storytelling in fostering empathy and understanding towards refugees as complex individuals rather than abstract political issues.

Khan's writing process involves deeply understanding his clients' narratives, which allows him to create authentic and relatable characters.

Gaisford draws inspiration for 'Sanctuary' from his experiences as a barrister and his observations of the deteriorating immigration policies, translating these insights into fiction.

The article concludes with calls to action, encouraging readers to support refugee charities and campaigns to address the injustices faced by asylum seekers.