DCRS provides practical and emotional support to asylum seekers and refugees dispersed to the area
DCRS assists this vulnerable, isolated and diverse group of individuals, many of whom do not speak English. Through our walk-in centre, open weekdays, we help them access local services, integrate into the community, lead as fulfilling a life as possible and address practical issues relating to accommodation, health, benefits, fitness, education and all aspects of everday life. We support an estimated 800 Asylum Seekers and Refugees already in Plymouth with some 200-250 dispersed here each year
Why the community needs usWe support an estimated 600 Asylum Seekers and Refugees already in Plymouth with some 200-250 newly dispersed here each year. We have strong relationships with over 50 local organisations (many of which we refer to for specialist help), churches, community groups, the university, the police and individuals. As well as providing practical support we are central to the needs of the local community in supporting and integrating local asylum seekers and refugees to the benefit of the whole community
Our impact on the communityEach year there are more than 1000 service users visit the centre and many thousand practical issues are resolved. Hundreds of service users are referred to language lessons, other education and sports and fitness activities to reduce isolation and promote physical and mental well-being as well as to help integrate into the local community. An internet suite helps most service users access local culture and keep in touch with family/friends. Food and clothing is provided to the destitute
Volunteers are needed within our walk-in centre in central Plymouth to support our education and sports and fitness activities, assist our caseworkers, distribute food and clothing to the destitute, and to help asylum seekers get the most from our internet suite and walk-in centre.Volunteers must be personable, supportive in a busy and pressured environment and happy to provide from several hours upwards rota'd support each week and use their own initiative. Induction and training is provided
