Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Communities
Since January 2025 North East Humanists (NEH) has been working with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) in the North East to support the integration of asylum seekers and refugees into communities in the region. Our concern about this issue is driven by the principle of fairness, and we are striving to contribute to the well-being of receiving communities as well as that of those seeking refuge.
In July, with CRT, we organised a seminar in Horden in East Durham, at which a wide range of supporting agencies contributed to discussion about the numerous challenges and solutions of ensuring integration in areas similar to Horden. A full report of that seminar can be downloaded (See below)
One immediate spin-off from the seminar was a showing of the Ken Loach film The Old Oak. Filmed in East Durham it features the ultimate integration of Syrian refugees into a community which is initially significantly antagonistic towards the newcomers. The post-film discussion, over food cooked by Syrian refugees, was uplifting and insightful.
Other ongoing work of the NEH/ CRT partnership is the continuing development of a comprehensive reference list of regional Supporting Organisations (See below) and the administration during the autumn of a series of small grants, which will be awarded for projects which will help to overcome the challenges identified at the seminar.
We are very grateful to CRT for their considerable financial support in all aspects of this work. Working in partnership, we hope we will continue to help everyone involved to navigate the complex immigration system appropriately.
Below are documents from our project seminar held in Horden, as well as a list of Refugee and asylum seeker support centres in the North East of England.
programme_for_horden_seminar.docx
horden_seminar_statistics..pdf.
seminar_background_perspectives.pdf.
horden_seminar_speaker_bios.pdf.
horden_seminar_attempting_the_truth.pdf
Since January 2025 North East Humanists (NEH) has been working with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) in the North East to support the integration of asylum seekers and refugees into communities in the region. Our concern about this issue is driven by the principle of fairness, and we are striving to contribute to the well-being of receiving communities as well as that of those seeking refuge.
In July, with CRT, we organised a seminar in Horden in East Durham, at which a wide range of supporting agencies contributed to discussion about the numerous challenges and solutions of ensuring integration in areas similar to Horden. A full report of that seminar can be downloaded (See below)
One immediate spin-off from the seminar was a showing of the Ken Loach film The Old Oak. Filmed in East Durham it features the ultimate integration of Syrian refugees into a community which is initially significantly antagonistic towards the newcomers. The post-film discussion, over food cooked by Syrian refugees, was uplifting and insightful.
Other ongoing work of the NEH/ CRT partnership is the continuing development of a comprehensive reference list of regional Supporting Organisations (See below) and the administration during the autumn of a series of small grants, which will be awarded for projects which will help to overcome the challenges identified at the seminar.
We are very grateful to CRT for their considerable financial support in all aspects of this work. Working in partnership, we hope we will continue to help everyone involved to navigate the complex immigration system appropriately.
Below are documents from our project seminar held in Horden, as well as a list of Refugee and asylum seeker support centres in the North East of England.
programme_for_horden_seminar.docx
horden_seminar_statistics..pdf.
seminar_background_perspectives.pdf.
horden_seminar_speaker_bios.pdf.
horden_seminar_attempting_the_truth.pdf
Click on the photo to see the project seminar report.
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Click on the photo to find the Horden seminar programme.
|
Refugee and asylum seeker support centres in the North-East
neh_list_of_refugee_and_asylum_seeker_support_organisations_in_the_north_east_july_2025 _1_.pdf
County Durham
Communities Together
Project Co-ordinator Joanne Thorns
Telephone: 0788 377 9030
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://communitiestogetherdurham.org.uk/about-us/
Collaborates with Mears Housing, the DCC Humanitarian team and DCoS to provide assistance with basic needs such as legal advice housing, healthcare, education and language classes. Programs provide comprehensive support, including information and advice tailored to the refugee and asylum seekers unique circumstances. They offer guidance on navigating the complex systems they encounter, ensuring they receive the help they need to rebuild their lives. Holds drop- in sessions in Stanley Newton Aycliffe & Durham, offering friendship and links with the local community & the above-mentioned support. Offers face to face support and signposting.
Durham City of Sanctuary (DCoS)
Telephone: 07783933448
Email: [email protected]
Aims to create a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers in Durham. Offers various support services, including befriending schemes, language classes, and community events to help newcomers integrate
Durham County Council (DCC)
Rebecca Angus, Housing Team Leader
Telephone: 07909537208
Email:[email protected]
DCC is now engaged in five different programmes delivering refugee and asylum support. It has a comprehensive planning process to incorporate the changing nature of the refugee and asylum seeker in County Durham, providing support with housing, job centres, volunteering and access to education and vocational training and also links to the local community Council’s Housing Solutions, Employability and Education (EAL) teams and local charities dedicated to supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Offers language classes in local centres around the county.
Durham University
Durham for Refugees Kids Club
Email : [email protected]
Provides fun, educational and helpful childcare activities for the children of local refugees who attend community drop-in sessions run by City of Sanctuary in Durham.
Pact House
Contact: Darren McMahon
Address: 39 Front Street, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0JE
Telephone: 07720 650 533
Email: [email protected]
Website:https://www.neighbourly.com/project/5cb85c07c7ac89043c5a58a2
This is a hub for community access to help to reduce isolation, support people with well-being, address and support local people in poverty. It supports people in the local community, including refugees and asylum seekers in food poverty with food packs and through low cost and free meals in the community cafe. It helps people to access services, training and information they need to improve their quality of life.
Quaking Houses Village Hall
Address: Quaking Houses Village Hall, Second Street, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 7HQ
Telephone: 01207 283016
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.quakinghousesvillagehall.org/
They offer advice and support to the community about benefits, accessing grants and energy saving measures alongside safety and help to access other services around housing, debt, mental health and so much more. Also organise community cookery sessions and have welcomed newcomer asylum seeks, with friendship and support.
Darlington
Darlington Assistance for Refugees (DAR)
Website: https://darlingtonrefugees.org/
Email: [email protected].
DAR is a volunteer-led organisation that offers support and friendship to refugees and asylum seekers in Darlington. They provide practical assistance, social events, and advocacy to help individuals integrate into the community.
Refugee Support Network (RSN Darlington)
Address: Suite 1.3 The Chandelier Building, 8 Scrubs Lane, London,
NW10 6RB
Website: https://refsource.gebnet.co.uk/directory/refugee-support-network-rsn
Email: http://www.refugeesupportnetwork.org/
RSN Darlington works to support refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants through education, mentoring, and community involvement initiatives.
Gateshead
Gateshead Council
Dedicated team at Housing Support Services.
Government approved refugee settlement scheme for refugees and those with Leave to Remain status.
Particular focus on Syrian refugee support.
Our Gateshead
Contact Person Alexander Jones
Address Hope House Durham Road Gateshead NE8 4AR
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ourgateshead.org/things-to-do/refugee-drop
Weekly drop-in at Hope House, Durham Road
Run jointly by Gateshead Council and Alive Church
In addition to council-led services, a network of local organizations and faith groups offers practical assistance and a sense of belonging to newcomers. These groups may provide advice, social activities, and advocacy, helping refugees navigate life in a new country and find support tailored to their unique needs
Peace of Mind
Contact Sam and Sara
Address: Methodist Church Hall, Whitehall Road
Telephone: 07595 300 326
Email: [email protected]
Range of projects for refugees and asylum seekers
Food, clothing, household items, English conversation, warm space.
Comfrey Project
Address: Windmill Hills Centre,
Chester Place, Gateshead, NE8 1QB
Telephone: 0191 447 7801 | 07795 320706
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://thecomfreyproject.org.uk/what-we-do/
Support for refugees and asylum seekers
Community garden and allotments.
Language support and informal advice, café.
Ultimate Advocacy
Provides a wide range of advocacy and mentoring support to help vulnerable people to overcome barriers in accessing learning and employment opportunities, housing etc. Offers practical support for people in crisis situations..
Website: https://www.ultimate-advocacy.co.uk/ (Not up and Running as yet)
Newcastle upon Tyne
The North of England Refugee Service (NERS)
Address: 2 Friars St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4XA Telephone: 0191 245 7301 Email: [email protected]
The West End Refugee Service (WERS)
Address: St Philip’s Vicarage, St Philip’s Close, Arthur’s Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5JE Telephone: 0191 273 7482 Email: [email protected]
Exists to meet the needs and promote the interests of asylum seekers and refugees who have arrived or have settled in the North of England.Offers information and advice sessions, and practical support focusing on the most vulnerable stages of the journey from initial application to integration into life of citizens in the North-East.
African Community Advice North East (ACANE)
Address: 1 Raby Cross, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2FF Telephone: 0191 265 8110 Email: [email protected] Information, advice and advocacy
After school club for young people with free access to IT, internet, table football and art & craft.
The Hub at Westgate Baptist Church
Address: 366 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 6NX Telephone: 0191 272 0647 Email: [email protected] Helping to settle into life in the UK; giving advice about rights, emergency support for homeless and destitute asylum seekers, including showers and food
Justice and Peace (Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle)
Address: St. Vincent’s Support Centre, New Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2TQ Address: Blackfriars Centre, New Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, St Vincent’s Centre Newcastle
NE1 2TQ Telephone: 0191 261 6027 Email: [email protected]
Supports asylum seekers and destitute asylum seekers, food, free WIFI, toiletries, clothes, bedding and shoes are available. There is a hardship fund for destitute asylum seekers. Provides a drop-in and information and advice sessions Wednesdays and Fridays 11am to 1.30pm.
Action Foundation
Address: CastleGate, Melbourne Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 2JQ Telephone: 0191 231 3113
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://actionfoundation.org.uk/
They collaborate closely with both local and national organisations, including the British Red Cross, Local Authorities, North East Law Centre, and West End Refugee Service to support disadvantaged refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants across the North East.. These partnerships have been instrumental in arranging family reunions, securing legal representation for those with no recourse to public funds, and broadening the range of support available to our beneficiaries.
Information Now
(Newcastle Upon Tyne Council – a City of Sanctuary)
Websites:
https://www.informationnow.org.uk/article/support-for-asylum-seekers-and-refugees/
https://www.informationnow.org.uk/article/immigration-and-asylum/
These websites provide extensive information and advice and support for asylum seekers and refugees. They also give details about supportive organisations in the Newcastle area
The Wellness Tribe
(Newcastle Upon Tyne City of Sanctuary)
Address: New Bridge Street West, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8BS
Telephone: 07440021790
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.thewellnesstribe.co.uk
Supports individuals and families who are at high risk of experiencing mental health issues due to social and personal factors such as poverty, lack of skills, racial trauma, language barriers, refugee and asylum experiences, health, economic inequalities, unemployment, and poor housing.
North Shields
Churches Together North Shields.
‘New to the UK’ weekly session (Every Wednesday 11.00am -1.30pm.)
Address: North Shields Baptist Church, Howard Street, North Shields, NE30 1AR
Telephone: 0191 257 5222
Website: www.nsb.org.uk
Signposts facilities and services, provide essential homeware, clothing, and food, and assist people to access legal, medical, and other advice.
Meadowell Connected
Address: The Meadows Waterville Road, North Shields, NE29 6BA.
Telephone: 0191 3410033
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.themeadows.community
Provides support for the wider local community including after school l kids club, a community garden and a cafe serving affordable meals
Peace of Mind CIO
Address: Whitehall Road Methodist Church, Whitehall Road, Gateshead, NE8 4LH
Telephone: 07595 300326 Email: phttps://peaceofmindnortheast.org.uk/[email protected]
Provides practical and emotional support, helps with translation, registering with a GP, finding a solicitor, healthy living, food parcels, clothing, baby equipment, settling into the community and with destitution issue.
South Tyneside
South Tyneside Housing Service
Address: South Tyneside Council Housing Services, South Shields Town Hall, Westoe Road,South Shields, NE33 2RL
Telephone: 0300 123 6633
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://housing.southtyneside.gov.uk/
For refugees and those with Humanitarian protection
South Tyneside Asylum Seekers and Refugees Church Help (STARCH)
Address: 13 Glencourse East Boldon NE36 0LW
Phone: 01915367533
Email: [email protected]
Website: info from https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4002867/contact-information
Weekly drop-in Centre at Living Waters church attended by local services and charities to provide advice.
Clothes, toys, household items
Love Amelia
Telephone 07394878432
Email: [email protected]
Children’s charity based in Sunderland offering support to families experiencing poverty and hardship across Tyne & Wear and County Durham.
Mention of support for refugees and asylum seekers in Sunderland and South Tyneside, especially those from Afghanistan.
Only professionals can make referrals
St James’s Church
Address: Benwell Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 6RR Telephone: 0191 273 5356 Email: [email protected]
Helps with wellbeing, signposting to other services in the community, foodbank vouchers volunteering opportunities free Wi Fi , tea and coffee, conversation and spiritual support, social time or time for peace and quiet.
Refugee and asylum seeker support centres in
Northumberland
Northumberland –
County/ City of Sanctuary. (Partnered with the Red
Cross.
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://northumberland.cityofsanctuary.org
Runs a weekly drop-in in Ashington, Bedlington and Blyth. These sessions are friendly, informal and open to anyone going through the asylum system. We signpost to education, healthcare and housing services.
Outreach from the Red Cross (North East Migration Partnership)
Address: St Andrew's Church House, Hawthorn Road, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9AU
Website: https://www.nemp.org.uk/services/red-cross-outreach-saint-andrews-church/outreach-9/
St. Cuthbert’s Church, Blyth – (North East Migration Partnership)
Address: Saint Cuthbert's Church, Blyth, Northumberland, NE24 5JN
(More details for both: Middlesbrough Council, PO Box 500,Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT Telephone; 01642 726241 Email: [email protected])
Provides many services plus a list of phone numbers for Red Cross contacts if there are problems with Mears (housing) or the Home Office
Northumberland Learning and Skills–(North East Migration Partnership)
ESOL – Cramlington
Address: Northumbria House, Manor Walks, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 6UR
Website: www.nemp.org.uk/services/nothumberland-learning-and-skills
(More details for both: Middlesbrough Council, PO Box 500, Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT Telephone; 01642 726241 Email: [email protected])
Tynemouth Together With Refugees
Email: [email protected]
Websites:https://www.facebook.com/TynemouthTWR/
https:togetherwithrefugees.org.uk
www.facebook.com
(Often works with The Walking With Centre in Wallsend)
Together with Refugees
Website: http://togetherwithrefugees.org.uk
A coalition of organisations founded by Asylum Matters, British Red Cross, Freedom from Torture, Rainbow Migration, Refugee Action, Refugee Council, and Scottish Refugee Council.
Walking with
Address: The Walking With Centre, Church House, Hugh St, Wallsend, NE28 6RL
Phone: 0191 649 8974 Mobile: 0749 722 1716
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://walkingwith.co.uk/
Provides a service to help refugees and asylum seekers to adjust to a new life in the UK. Their welcoming centre aims to provide welcoming safe environment to befriend, support, and empower, providing education and resources to all who us their services. They provide practical and moral support services on a daily basis.
Teesside
Middlesbrough
Open Door North- East
Tel: 01642 213634
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.opendoornortheast.com/
Helps refugees to settle in the Northeast by facilitating access to services, legal support, increased skills and employability and tackling the urgent problem of homelessness serving asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants in the Tees Valley. They provide a range of services supporting the wellbeing and integration of those seeking sanctuary in the UK. Our mission is to support those seeking sanctuary to move out of poverty and destitution and be empowered to achieve their full potential.
North of England Refugee Service Address: Unit 6, Broadcasting House, Newport Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 5JA
Website: http://www.refugee.org.uk
Offers advice and guidance, particularly to people from Black Minority Ethnic (BME) communities.
At the same address: Turn2Us Offers support for asylum seekers and their families, refugee community groups, local communities, migrants - asylum law advice, support and referrals, help with housing and subsistence, accessing health, education, support services and solicitors. Refers refugees to access training and employment, development work with refugee community groups. Is involved in campaigning, refugee awareness training, volunteering programmes, voluntary return programmes and liaison with other agencies.
Methodist Asylum Seeker Project (MAP)- Middlesbrough
Address: 54 Borough Rd, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH
Telephone : 07970192841
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://mapmiddlesbrough.org.uk
The North East Migration Partnership
Middlesbrough Council,
PO Box 500,
Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT
Telephone: 01642 726241
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.nemp.org.uk/
Provides hubs to cover four areas of support for councils and other statutory partners involved in supporting new arrivals in their understanding the UK way of life, the development of English language skills, helping resettled refugees and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) and a useful range of welcome resources (including health, life and laws, and parenting), online government guidance, information about where to get support, and links to publicly available data.
Stockton on Tees
Justice First
Address: Stanley House, 133 Norton Rd, Stockton-on-Tees TS18 2BG
Telephone: +44 (0) 1642 601122
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://justicefirst.org.uk/
Justice First operates in Stockton and offers legal advice and representation to refugees and asylum seekers. They focus on ensuring fair treatment and access to justice for individuals navigating the asylum process.
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle
Address: The Square Stockton-on-Tees County Durham United Kingdom TS18 1TE
Telephone: 01642602223
Email: [email protected]
Website : Expired
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle provides a range of support services for refugees and asylum seekers, including English language classes, social activities, and practical assistance.
Refugees Futures
Address: Catalyst House, 27A Yarm Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3NJ
Telephone:
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://refugeefutures.org/contact/
Refugees Futures collaborates with other organisations in the area to support refugees and people seeking asylum
Sunderland
Sunderland Information Point website
Provides links to many agencies supporting refugees and Asylum Seekers some of which are listed below
Website page: https://www.sunderlandinformationpoint.co.uk/kb5/sunderland/directory/results.page?qt=%22Refugees%22&term=&sorttype=relevance
Sunderland City of Sanctuary, (Sunderland Council)
Contact: Chris Howson
Other Telephone: 0784 6099 643
Email: [email protected]
Other Email: [email protected]
Provides English Classes face to face and online and a free film every Friday. Contact Chris Howson. Beginner English classes are in person on Friday afternoons. Advanced classes are online on Friday afternoons.
Friends of the Drop-In for Asylum Seekers and Refugees (FODI)
Address: The Co-op Centre, Whitehouse Road, Hendon, Sunderland, SR2 8AH, United Kingdom.
Contact: Fanni Ngambi
Telephone: 07525 853 913l
Email: [email protected]
Website https://fodisunderland.org/
With a focus on mental health, FODI offers a wide range of services and activities to enable asylum seekers to negotiate the application process and also integrate into the local community.
International Community Organisation of Sunderland (ICOS)
Telephone: 07596 538 482
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://icos.org.uk
North of England Refugee Service (NERS) Sunderland Office
Telephone: 0191 511 1410
Email: [email protected]
British Red Cross
Telephone: 0191 510 8753
Email: [email protected]
Friends of Asylum Seekers (FAS)
FAS Sunderland provides practical support, social activities, and advocacy for asylum seekers and refugees. Their mission is to alleviate poverty and social exclusion among vulnerable newcomers in the city.
Young Asian Voices (YAV)
Address: Young Asian Voices Sans Street Centre Upper Sans Street Sunderland SR1 1HG
Tel: 0191 543 6820
Mobile: 07496 310734 | 07917003828
Email: [email protected]
Website https://www.youngasianvoices.co.uk/
YAV is a youth and community organisation in Sunderland that supports young refugees and asylum seekers through educational programmes, social activities, and mentoring. The focus is on providing opportunities for employability, volunteering community engagement and sport
Government Websites
https://www.gov.uk/asylum-helplines
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/asylum-support-uk-rights-and-expectations
neh_list_of_refugee_and_asylum_seeker_support_organisations_in_the_north_east_july_2025 _1_.pdf
County Durham
Communities Together
Project Co-ordinator Joanne Thorns
Telephone: 0788 377 9030
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://communitiestogetherdurham.org.uk/about-us/
Collaborates with Mears Housing, the DCC Humanitarian team and DCoS to provide assistance with basic needs such as legal advice housing, healthcare, education and language classes. Programs provide comprehensive support, including information and advice tailored to the refugee and asylum seekers unique circumstances. They offer guidance on navigating the complex systems they encounter, ensuring they receive the help they need to rebuild their lives. Holds drop- in sessions in Stanley Newton Aycliffe & Durham, offering friendship and links with the local community & the above-mentioned support. Offers face to face support and signposting.
Durham City of Sanctuary (DCoS)
Telephone: 07783933448
Email: [email protected]
Aims to create a welcoming environment for refugees and asylum seekers in Durham. Offers various support services, including befriending schemes, language classes, and community events to help newcomers integrate
Durham County Council (DCC)
Rebecca Angus, Housing Team Leader
Telephone: 07909537208
Email:[email protected]
DCC is now engaged in five different programmes delivering refugee and asylum support. It has a comprehensive planning process to incorporate the changing nature of the refugee and asylum seeker in County Durham, providing support with housing, job centres, volunteering and access to education and vocational training and also links to the local community Council’s Housing Solutions, Employability and Education (EAL) teams and local charities dedicated to supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Offers language classes in local centres around the county.
Durham University
Durham for Refugees Kids Club
Email : [email protected]
Provides fun, educational and helpful childcare activities for the children of local refugees who attend community drop-in sessions run by City of Sanctuary in Durham.
Pact House
Contact: Darren McMahon
Address: 39 Front Street, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 0JE
Telephone: 07720 650 533
Email: [email protected]
Website:https://www.neighbourly.com/project/5cb85c07c7ac89043c5a58a2
This is a hub for community access to help to reduce isolation, support people with well-being, address and support local people in poverty. It supports people in the local community, including refugees and asylum seekers in food poverty with food packs and through low cost and free meals in the community cafe. It helps people to access services, training and information they need to improve their quality of life.
Quaking Houses Village Hall
Address: Quaking Houses Village Hall, Second Street, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 7HQ
Telephone: 01207 283016
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.quakinghousesvillagehall.org/
They offer advice and support to the community about benefits, accessing grants and energy saving measures alongside safety and help to access other services around housing, debt, mental health and so much more. Also organise community cookery sessions and have welcomed newcomer asylum seeks, with friendship and support.
Darlington
Darlington Assistance for Refugees (DAR)
Website: https://darlingtonrefugees.org/
Email: [email protected].
DAR is a volunteer-led organisation that offers support and friendship to refugees and asylum seekers in Darlington. They provide practical assistance, social events, and advocacy to help individuals integrate into the community.
Refugee Support Network (RSN Darlington)
Address: Suite 1.3 The Chandelier Building, 8 Scrubs Lane, London,
NW10 6RB
Website: https://refsource.gebnet.co.uk/directory/refugee-support-network-rsn
Email: http://www.refugeesupportnetwork.org/
RSN Darlington works to support refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants through education, mentoring, and community involvement initiatives.
Gateshead
Gateshead Council
Dedicated team at Housing Support Services.
Government approved refugee settlement scheme for refugees and those with Leave to Remain status.
Particular focus on Syrian refugee support.
Our Gateshead
Contact Person Alexander Jones
Address Hope House Durham Road Gateshead NE8 4AR
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ourgateshead.org/things-to-do/refugee-drop
Weekly drop-in at Hope House, Durham Road
Run jointly by Gateshead Council and Alive Church
In addition to council-led services, a network of local organizations and faith groups offers practical assistance and a sense of belonging to newcomers. These groups may provide advice, social activities, and advocacy, helping refugees navigate life in a new country and find support tailored to their unique needs
Peace of Mind
Contact Sam and Sara
Address: Methodist Church Hall, Whitehall Road
Telephone: 07595 300 326
Email: [email protected]
Range of projects for refugees and asylum seekers
Food, clothing, household items, English conversation, warm space.
Comfrey Project
Address: Windmill Hills Centre,
Chester Place, Gateshead, NE8 1QB
Telephone: 0191 447 7801 | 07795 320706
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://thecomfreyproject.org.uk/what-we-do/
Support for refugees and asylum seekers
Community garden and allotments.
Language support and informal advice, café.
Ultimate Advocacy
Provides a wide range of advocacy and mentoring support to help vulnerable people to overcome barriers in accessing learning and employment opportunities, housing etc. Offers practical support for people in crisis situations..
Website: https://www.ultimate-advocacy.co.uk/ (Not up and Running as yet)
Newcastle upon Tyne
The North of England Refugee Service (NERS)
Address: 2 Friars St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4XA Telephone: 0191 245 7301 Email: [email protected]
The West End Refugee Service (WERS)
Address: St Philip’s Vicarage, St Philip’s Close, Arthur’s Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5JE Telephone: 0191 273 7482 Email: [email protected]
Exists to meet the needs and promote the interests of asylum seekers and refugees who have arrived or have settled in the North of England.Offers information and advice sessions, and practical support focusing on the most vulnerable stages of the journey from initial application to integration into life of citizens in the North-East.
African Community Advice North East (ACANE)
Address: 1 Raby Cross, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2FF Telephone: 0191 265 8110 Email: [email protected] Information, advice and advocacy
After school club for young people with free access to IT, internet, table football and art & craft.
The Hub at Westgate Baptist Church
Address: 366 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 6NX Telephone: 0191 272 0647 Email: [email protected] Helping to settle into life in the UK; giving advice about rights, emergency support for homeless and destitute asylum seekers, including showers and food
Justice and Peace (Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle)
Address: St. Vincent’s Support Centre, New Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2TQ Address: Blackfriars Centre, New Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, St Vincent’s Centre Newcastle
NE1 2TQ Telephone: 0191 261 6027 Email: [email protected]
Supports asylum seekers and destitute asylum seekers, food, free WIFI, toiletries, clothes, bedding and shoes are available. There is a hardship fund for destitute asylum seekers. Provides a drop-in and information and advice sessions Wednesdays and Fridays 11am to 1.30pm.
Action Foundation
Address: CastleGate, Melbourne Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 2JQ Telephone: 0191 231 3113
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://actionfoundation.org.uk/
They collaborate closely with both local and national organisations, including the British Red Cross, Local Authorities, North East Law Centre, and West End Refugee Service to support disadvantaged refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants across the North East.. These partnerships have been instrumental in arranging family reunions, securing legal representation for those with no recourse to public funds, and broadening the range of support available to our beneficiaries.
Information Now
(Newcastle Upon Tyne Council – a City of Sanctuary)
Websites:
https://www.informationnow.org.uk/article/support-for-asylum-seekers-and-refugees/
https://www.informationnow.org.uk/article/immigration-and-asylum/
These websites provide extensive information and advice and support for asylum seekers and refugees. They also give details about supportive organisations in the Newcastle area
The Wellness Tribe
(Newcastle Upon Tyne City of Sanctuary)
Address: New Bridge Street West, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8BS
Telephone: 07440021790
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.thewellnesstribe.co.uk
Supports individuals and families who are at high risk of experiencing mental health issues due to social and personal factors such as poverty, lack of skills, racial trauma, language barriers, refugee and asylum experiences, health, economic inequalities, unemployment, and poor housing.
North Shields
Churches Together North Shields.
‘New to the UK’ weekly session (Every Wednesday 11.00am -1.30pm.)
Address: North Shields Baptist Church, Howard Street, North Shields, NE30 1AR
Telephone: 0191 257 5222
Website: www.nsb.org.uk
Signposts facilities and services, provide essential homeware, clothing, and food, and assist people to access legal, medical, and other advice.
Meadowell Connected
Address: The Meadows Waterville Road, North Shields, NE29 6BA.
Telephone: 0191 3410033
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.themeadows.community
Provides support for the wider local community including after school l kids club, a community garden and a cafe serving affordable meals
Peace of Mind CIO
Address: Whitehall Road Methodist Church, Whitehall Road, Gateshead, NE8 4LH
Telephone: 07595 300326 Email: phttps://peaceofmindnortheast.org.uk/[email protected]
Provides practical and emotional support, helps with translation, registering with a GP, finding a solicitor, healthy living, food parcels, clothing, baby equipment, settling into the community and with destitution issue.
South Tyneside
South Tyneside Housing Service
Address: South Tyneside Council Housing Services, South Shields Town Hall, Westoe Road,South Shields, NE33 2RL
Telephone: 0300 123 6633
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://housing.southtyneside.gov.uk/
For refugees and those with Humanitarian protection
South Tyneside Asylum Seekers and Refugees Church Help (STARCH)
Address: 13 Glencourse East Boldon NE36 0LW
Phone: 01915367533
Email: [email protected]
Website: info from https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4002867/contact-information
Weekly drop-in Centre at Living Waters church attended by local services and charities to provide advice.
Clothes, toys, household items
Love Amelia
Telephone 07394878432
Email: [email protected]
Children’s charity based in Sunderland offering support to families experiencing poverty and hardship across Tyne & Wear and County Durham.
Mention of support for refugees and asylum seekers in Sunderland and South Tyneside, especially those from Afghanistan.
Only professionals can make referrals
St James’s Church
Address: Benwell Lane, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 6RR Telephone: 0191 273 5356 Email: [email protected]
Helps with wellbeing, signposting to other services in the community, foodbank vouchers volunteering opportunities free Wi Fi , tea and coffee, conversation and spiritual support, social time or time for peace and quiet.
Refugee and asylum seeker support centres in
Northumberland
Northumberland –
County/ City of Sanctuary. (Partnered with the Red
Cross.
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://northumberland.cityofsanctuary.org
Runs a weekly drop-in in Ashington, Bedlington and Blyth. These sessions are friendly, informal and open to anyone going through the asylum system. We signpost to education, healthcare and housing services.
Outreach from the Red Cross (North East Migration Partnership)
Address: St Andrew's Church House, Hawthorn Road, Ashington, Northumberland, NE63 9AU
Website: https://www.nemp.org.uk/services/red-cross-outreach-saint-andrews-church/outreach-9/
St. Cuthbert’s Church, Blyth – (North East Migration Partnership)
Address: Saint Cuthbert's Church, Blyth, Northumberland, NE24 5JN
(More details for both: Middlesbrough Council, PO Box 500,Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT Telephone; 01642 726241 Email: [email protected])
Provides many services plus a list of phone numbers for Red Cross contacts if there are problems with Mears (housing) or the Home Office
Northumberland Learning and Skills–(North East Migration Partnership)
ESOL – Cramlington
Address: Northumbria House, Manor Walks, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 6UR
Website: www.nemp.org.uk/services/nothumberland-learning-and-skills
(More details for both: Middlesbrough Council, PO Box 500, Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT Telephone; 01642 726241 Email: [email protected])
Tynemouth Together With Refugees
Email: [email protected]
Websites:https://www.facebook.com/TynemouthTWR/
https:togetherwithrefugees.org.uk
www.facebook.com
(Often works with The Walking With Centre in Wallsend)
Together with Refugees
Website: http://togetherwithrefugees.org.uk
A coalition of organisations founded by Asylum Matters, British Red Cross, Freedom from Torture, Rainbow Migration, Refugee Action, Refugee Council, and Scottish Refugee Council.
Walking with
Address: The Walking With Centre, Church House, Hugh St, Wallsend, NE28 6RL
Phone: 0191 649 8974 Mobile: 0749 722 1716
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://walkingwith.co.uk/
Provides a service to help refugees and asylum seekers to adjust to a new life in the UK. Their welcoming centre aims to provide welcoming safe environment to befriend, support, and empower, providing education and resources to all who us their services. They provide practical and moral support services on a daily basis.
Teesside
Middlesbrough
Open Door North- East
Tel: 01642 213634
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.opendoornortheast.com/
Helps refugees to settle in the Northeast by facilitating access to services, legal support, increased skills and employability and tackling the urgent problem of homelessness serving asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants in the Tees Valley. They provide a range of services supporting the wellbeing and integration of those seeking sanctuary in the UK. Our mission is to support those seeking sanctuary to move out of poverty and destitution and be empowered to achieve their full potential.
North of England Refugee Service Address: Unit 6, Broadcasting House, Newport Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 5JA
Website: http://www.refugee.org.uk
Offers advice and guidance, particularly to people from Black Minority Ethnic (BME) communities.
At the same address: Turn2Us Offers support for asylum seekers and their families, refugee community groups, local communities, migrants - asylum law advice, support and referrals, help with housing and subsistence, accessing health, education, support services and solicitors. Refers refugees to access training and employment, development work with refugee community groups. Is involved in campaigning, refugee awareness training, volunteering programmes, voluntary return programmes and liaison with other agencies.
Methodist Asylum Seeker Project (MAP)- Middlesbrough
Address: 54 Borough Rd, Middlesbrough, TS1 2JH
Telephone : 07970192841
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://mapmiddlesbrough.org.uk
The North East Migration Partnership
Middlesbrough Council,
PO Box 500,
Middlesbrough,
TS1 9FT
Telephone: 01642 726241
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.nemp.org.uk/
Provides hubs to cover four areas of support for councils and other statutory partners involved in supporting new arrivals in their understanding the UK way of life, the development of English language skills, helping resettled refugees and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) and a useful range of welcome resources (including health, life and laws, and parenting), online government guidance, information about where to get support, and links to publicly available data.
Stockton on Tees
Justice First
Address: Stanley House, 133 Norton Rd, Stockton-on-Tees TS18 2BG
Telephone: +44 (0) 1642 601122
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://justicefirst.org.uk/
Justice First operates in Stockton and offers legal advice and representation to refugees and asylum seekers. They focus on ensuring fair treatment and access to justice for individuals navigating the asylum process.
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle
Address: The Square Stockton-on-Tees County Durham United Kingdom TS18 1TE
Telephone: 01642602223
Email: [email protected]
Website : Expired
Stockton Baptist Tabernacle provides a range of support services for refugees and asylum seekers, including English language classes, social activities, and practical assistance.
Refugees Futures
Address: Catalyst House, 27A Yarm Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 3NJ
Telephone:
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://refugeefutures.org/contact/
Refugees Futures collaborates with other organisations in the area to support refugees and people seeking asylum
Sunderland
Sunderland Information Point website
Provides links to many agencies supporting refugees and Asylum Seekers some of which are listed below
Website page: https://www.sunderlandinformationpoint.co.uk/kb5/sunderland/directory/results.page?qt=%22Refugees%22&term=&sorttype=relevance
Sunderland City of Sanctuary, (Sunderland Council)
Contact: Chris Howson
Other Telephone: 0784 6099 643
Email: [email protected]
Other Email: [email protected]
Provides English Classes face to face and online and a free film every Friday. Contact Chris Howson. Beginner English classes are in person on Friday afternoons. Advanced classes are online on Friday afternoons.
Friends of the Drop-In for Asylum Seekers and Refugees (FODI)
Address: The Co-op Centre, Whitehouse Road, Hendon, Sunderland, SR2 8AH, United Kingdom.
Contact: Fanni Ngambi
Telephone: 07525 853 913l
Email: [email protected]
Website https://fodisunderland.org/
With a focus on mental health, FODI offers a wide range of services and activities to enable asylum seekers to negotiate the application process and also integrate into the local community.
International Community Organisation of Sunderland (ICOS)
Telephone: 07596 538 482
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://icos.org.uk
North of England Refugee Service (NERS) Sunderland Office
Telephone: 0191 511 1410
Email: [email protected]
British Red Cross
Telephone: 0191 510 8753
Email: [email protected]
Friends of Asylum Seekers (FAS)
FAS Sunderland provides practical support, social activities, and advocacy for asylum seekers and refugees. Their mission is to alleviate poverty and social exclusion among vulnerable newcomers in the city.
Young Asian Voices (YAV)
Address: Young Asian Voices Sans Street Centre Upper Sans Street Sunderland SR1 1HG
Tel: 0191 543 6820
Mobile: 07496 310734 | 07917003828
Email: [email protected]
Website https://www.youngasianvoices.co.uk/
YAV is a youth and community organisation in Sunderland that supports young refugees and asylum seekers through educational programmes, social activities, and mentoring. The focus is on providing opportunities for employability, volunteering community engagement and sport
Government Websites
https://www.gov.uk/asylum-helplines
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/asylum-support-uk-rights-and-expectations
