Refugee projects

Community Sponsorship Scheme

The Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth is the lead sponsor for two refugee groups working with the Home Office within their Community Sponsorship Scheme to resettle families fleeing conflict

Caritas Portsmouth looks after these volunteer groups who are based in parishes in the diocese but in addition have wider external connections. Setting up these volunteer groups to be safe, sustainable and able to deliver support to the families takes considerable effort and organisation. Caritas Portsmouth is delighted to be working closely with the relevant local authorities and with CSAN to deliver this project.

We currently have two active Community Sponsorship projects in the diocese who are supporting their families. This has involved obtaining housing, access to medical services, schools for children, employment, training and English lessons.

We are delighted that both families are doing well, and adjusting to their new life in the UK. 

 

picture of a blue suitcase with some rope around it
Refugees
A view of people listening to a presentation

New Arrivals Project

For those who have arrived in the UK and are wanting to get to understand and participate in life in the UK we have developed a New Arrivals Project that allows people to learn about our culture and traditions. Cooking and sampling food, gardening, receiving employment guidance, advice on available support  and learning about our electoral system. This allows volunteers to share their knowledge and skills and provide opportunities for conversation practice in a friendly and supportive environment. 
 
To find out more about these projects please email [email protected]

 

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