STV News reporter wins award for highlighting voices of 'new Scots'

Report featured people left in limbo while applying for the right to remain in Scotland.

STV News reporter Kaye Nicolson has won an award for a report about people seeking asylum in Scotland.

She took the top prize in the broadcast category at the Refugee Festival Scotland media awards on Thursday night.

The report, which ran on the STV News website, the STV News at Six and Scotland Tonight, told the stories of those stuck in limbo while going through the asylum system.

It heard from people waiting years to find out if they can remain in the UK, all while not being allowed to work.

They spoke in the shadow of the Home Office’s new Nationality and Borders Bill, which campaigners say will make it even more difficult for refugees and asylum seekers coming to Scotland to find safety.

Kaye, who was joined at the awards ceremony by the interviewees, said: “This piece aimed to highlight the voices of the ‘new Scots’ who often feel like their voice and agency have been taken away in the asylum process.

“Receiving this award is testament to the powerful stories our contributors bravely shared with us.

Alvina and her daughter were among those who featured in the report.STV News

“It was very special to be reunited with our interviewees at the event, which was an uplifting celebration of journalism which amplifies the stories of some of the most marginalised in our communities.”

She added: “It was a real team effort to pull this story together for Scotland Tonight, and I’m especially grateful to my producer Marina Force, camera operators Steven Mochrie and Robin Johnstone, graphic designer Max Joss and craft editor Stuart Poole.”

Producer Marina Force, Dylan Fotoohi, founder and director of Refugees for Justice, and Kaye Nicolson.STV News

STV head of news Linda Grimes said: “I am delighted for Kaye and the production team who worked incredibly hard on this important report.

“STV is committed to telling stories that reflect the diversity of Scotland and Kaye’s journalism is a great example of why these voices need to be heard.”

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