Bromsgrove and Redditch Welcome Refugees

Bromsgrove and Redditch Welcome Refugees (BRWR) is a group of volunteers set up in 2015, to support local refugees who arrived under the government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons’ Relocation Scheme. Since then, we’ve expanded our work to support new arrivals from other countries including Afghanistan and Ukraine. We are guided by our refugee friends regarding the specific type of support they need, and we aim to provide a dedicated volunteer to provide that support. The help we offer varies from financial loans to practical support such as local knowledge, lifts, DIY and form-filling for jobs or benefits. Other important facilities: Events - Twice weekly English lessons provided for Afghans staying at the Bromsgrove Hotel in Bromsgrove; Weekly sessions providing English lessons plus general support and friendship for Ukrainians, in Bromsgrove and Redditch; Provision of social events and outings to improve wellbeing and provide opportunities for meeting up for all refugee families; Fundraising events to pay for everything we do and provide; Education initiatives raising awareness through presentations and workshops in schools and in the community, promoting inclusion and cultural diversity. Support - A focus on empowerment is integral to our approach as BRWR befrienders; Helping refugee families and asylum seekers to understand cultural norms in the UK; Helping them to negotiate their way through UK systems in line with how things are done in the UK, and to access appropriate specialised support as required; Give support with form filling, which can be particularly challenging at times; House moves, general DIY and support with domestic practicalities e.g., help families to find items needed for their homes.