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Mai is a 57-year- old lady, who is now retired. She came to the UK from Vietnam in 1982 with her mother and her son in order to seek security and freedom. At that time, the political situation in Vietnam worsened and her husband was imprisoned from 1975. Her three brothers, who were already in the UK, sponsored them.
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Challenges

The biggest challenge for Mai was that she had to support both her son and her husband by herself. Her husband was left alone in the prison in Vietnam, whom she kept sending money.

‘After 6 months, I found a job. Catering, restaurant, etc… (I did) everything I could do. By that time, (finding a) job is easier than now. […] I had to support my husband back home and my son here. […]Heavy duties (were) on your shoulder. I had to be strong… […] I had to send money home, sometime two jobs. But I did it […] I managed in the end.’

Tipping Points

For Mai, the release of her husband from the prison and his arrival to the UK was the tipping point of her integration to the UK. ‘I did not see him until 1988. I made paper to bring him back. I kept contact with him by letters. We were separated for 13 years. Finally were reunited. […] Now it’s much better. My son has grown up. Everything is on track. […]Family has settled down. That’s the only thing you worry about. Family is united and I feel at home. ’

Belonging

Mai feels ‘very much at home. […] I like staying here,’ she says. ‘All of my family is here.’ Mai ‘s son is now married and has children here. ‘He has two children. I am very happy. So I feel that my life is fulfilled. So now it is time (for me) to enjoy the life…’

Safety is another important element for her feeling towards being in the UK. ‘I prefer here. Here is much better. Much better atmosphere (more friendly, freedom, you can do what you want). It is safe. ‘