Talal, Glasgow

Born a Yemeni in Somalia, Talal Mohamed was accepted in neither country, and has spent much of his life in Abu Dhabi. In March 2003, having paid US$4,000 to get to the UK, he claimed asylum in Croydon. After being housed in a hostel in London, with the help of friends he voluntarily moved to Glasgow, where he lived without benefits until his case was heard.

Talal is now officially a refugee – he received refugee status in September 2004 and has indefinite leave to remain in the UK. He has been looking for a job since he has been allowed to do so. However, he remains unemployed, and is finding it increasingly hard to remain positive in his continuing search for independence from the state. Currently he receives £56 per week Jobseeker's Allowance, as well as Housing Benefit. Unlike asylum seekers, he is obliged to pay his own utility bills and travel expenses. Although it is difficult to make ends meet, Talal has the heating on full-blast in his little flat to cope with the cold weather.

"Sometimes the past is terrible, and the future - you don't know where you're going. I don't want to be on benefit. I want to stand on my own two feet. I am struggling to find a job, according to my qualifications. But I haven't given up hope. I am sure I will find a job and take the road towards contributing to this country."