Refugees arriving in the UK have lost their home, family, friends, or all three. They often have no support network and no idea how to begin rebuilding their life in a foreign country. Upbeat provides a second home and a family to those in this situation, who need emotional and practical support.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
On top of losing their homes and families, asylum seekers and refugees have often made traumatic journeys to the UK. They are met with a hostile asylum system, and often face poor housing or even homelessness. Their family and friends are many miles away, meaning they face loneliness and despair, and may feel they have nowhere to turn for practical advice or emotional support. There are as many as 1200 people seeking refuge in Derby currently facing these challenges.
Solution
Upbeat provides a second home and family through free activities at our Integration Hub that aren’t accessible elsewhere. Our English classes, support groups and daily meals enable refugees and asylum seekers to connect with community, receive emotional support, and get to know UK culture. We’re also able to point people in the direction of services that are essential for their well-being – from GP surgeries to clothes banks, to solicitors to help with asylum cases.
