This study examines the contrast between initial and secondary movements, and explores exile in relation to broader forms of security and need. It tests the assumption that safety is the most important consideration for refugees and looks at additional interests that they have and why. It contrasts conditions in initial places of exile (experienced or anticipated) with those expected of the UK and highlights reasons for subsequent movements, arguing that distinctions between stages are false and that each is part of what exile means. This study shows that initial and irregular secondary movements arise because of the interests people have in accessing safety, as well as quality of life and certainty in exile. It concludes that it is only by way of how refugees are defined that these are overlooked or are distrusted by host areas, and recommends that hosts should revisit expectations and properly respond to refugees' needs. © The Author [2009]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.

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