Full Breakdown
Green Party Councillor Faces Backlash Over Valentine's Day Cards for Asylum Seekers
2/13/2026, 8:22:58 PM
Controversial Initiative at Crowborough Training Camp
Anne Cross, a Green Party councillor for Heathfield and Mayfield on East Sussex County Council, has announced plans to deliver Valentine's Day cards to asylum seekers at the Crowborough Training Camp. This initiative, which involves her grandchildren creating the cards, has sparked significant controversy. Cross stated, “There is nothing like getting to know people and hearing their stories in order to dispel fear,” emphasizing the importance of community engagement with the asylum seekers housed at the camp.
The Crowborough Training Camp, repurposed by the Home Office, is currently accommodating up to 540 male migrants, many of whom arrived in the UK illegally. The camp has faced local opposition, with residents expressing concerns over safety and the appropriateness of housing single adult men in close proximity to families and children.
Local Opposition and Criticism
Critics of Cross's initiative include Nus Ghani, the Conservative MP for Wealden, who described the plan as “disturbing” and “highly irresponsible.” Ghani raised concerns about the implications of involving children in such activities, suggesting it shows a lack of regard for safeguarding. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp also condemned the initiative, labeling it as “despicable” and indicative of a broader failure to address local concerns regarding the asylum seekers.
Protests against the camp have been ongoing, with locals marching for 14 consecutive weekends, calling for the deportation of the migrants. Demonstrators have voiced their grievances about the government's decision to house asylum seekers in the former military facility, which they believe poses risks to the community.
Official Responses and Context
In defense of her actions, Cross argued that sending cards is a common practice among refugee charities and insisted that the cards would be delivered anonymously to welcome the men. She contended that misinformation has contributed to a climate of fear surrounding the asylum seekers, asserting, “There is no evidence children or women are at a higher risk from people seeking asylum than other sections of our society.”
The Home Office has stated that the asylum seekers will have access to medical services on-site and will only utilize off-site services when necessary. Despite the assurances, the local community remains divided, with many residents demanding more transparency and engagement from local officials regarding the situation at the camp.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Cross's initiative aims to foster understanding and compassion, the backlash highlights a significant divide in public opinion regarding asylum policies and community safety. The protests reflect a broader national debate on how to manage asylum seekers and the implications for local communities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “'There is nothing like getting to know people and hearing their stories in order to dispel fear,' she said.” — Anne Cross, Green Party Councillor
- “How is it that Wealden councillors don’t have time or courage to meet with MPs or community over the asylum seekers in Crowborough, but have time to get kids to make Valentine's cards and deliver to single adult men - strangers.” — Nus Ghani, MP for Wealden
- “This is NOT a good idea.” — Nus Ghani, MP for Wealden
The situation at Crowborough continues to evolve, with ongoing protests and community discussions expected as the local government navigates the complexities of asylum seeker integration.
