MIGRANTS must give back to their new hometowns if social integration is to happen, a new report says.

The research, by think tank the British Academy, looked at the work of schemes across the country that work with migrant communities, refugees and asylum seekers.

It has been welcomed by Broadgreen-based scheme the Harbour Project, which was featured in the report. The Swindon project works with refugees posted in the town by the Home Office while their asylum claims are processed.

British Academy researchers found that social integration was a “two-way” process, with the best projects enabling new arrivals to give something back to existing communities – like making friends from different backgrounds.

Councils should give more cash to projects that aim to integrate migrants into communities, they said. Addressing people’s grievances with migrants was also important, the researchers added.

Professor Anthony Heath, chairman of the British Academy project, said: “It is often said that we live in a divided society, yet our research shows how small, local projects are already making difference to the lives of established and newly-arrived migrant communities across the UK.

“But it is clear that integration does not happen on its own. Social integration must be supported and planned, taking into account the diverse needs of specific communities and places.”

Claire Garrett, deputy chairman of the Harbour Project, said: “We were delighted to give evidence from our experience in Swindon

“It’s very encouraging that this nationwide study confirms that in Swindon we are focusing on the key issues, most notably the teaching of English, engagement with local services, training, and in reducing isolation, especially of women.

“Looking at what others are doing across the country will also feed into our ongoing development and help ensure we give the best possible support to asylum seekers and refugees as they engage and contribute to the community.

“We know from our own assessments, that these people enjoy living in Swindon and greatly value contacts with people in the town”.

The report was presented at a Westminster meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Social Integration this week. It came as the government prepares to publish its integration strategy.

Prof Heath said that strategy should take heed of existing schemes like Swindon’s Harbour Project.

“Only then can we build sustainable and cohesive communities, where people of all backgrounds are welcomed and supported,” he said.

Labour MP Chuka Umunna, chairman of the All-Party Group on social integration, added: “We need a meaningful Integration Strategy which works for all parts of the UK to celebrate and look beyond our differences.

“However, integration is a two-way street requiring action on the part of newcomers and host communities.”

The latest report has been welcomed by government, with communities minister Lord Bourne saying it provided policymakers with “invaluable and practical insights”.