The Welcome to Leeds Project

RETAS (Refugee Education Training Advice Service)

0113 380 5630

The Welcome to Leeds Project

A project by RETAS (Refugee Education Training Advice Service)

The Welcome to Leeds Project

Welcome to Leeds supports newly granted asylum seekers in those crucial first few weeks of arrival, by linking them with a volunteer who will meet the new person, show them around the city and take them to specialist services.

Why they need our service

There are no existing public services which help asylum seekers access local support services that help them settle in Leeds, which have also been cut severely. Asylum seekers have often experienced fear, trauma and huge upheaval in their journey from their home country coupled with the equally harsh conditions of the asylum process. They then must adapt to life in an unknown city, country and culture with considerable language barriers.

Plan and expected results

Welcome to Leeds aims to see all new asylum seekers feel safer, more confident and empowered to help themselves and others. We want to see them connected to a network of support or able to create their own with specialist services, groups and places of worship; reducing isolation and aiding integration. Finally we aim to equip a broad range of volunteers from various backgrounds to feel prepared for welcoming new asylum seekers, spreading the message of welcome and sanctuary throughout the city.

What your gift could provide

£5

will cover a welcome meal for a new asylum seeker

£15

will cover travel for 1 volunteer to do 3-4 visits

£50

will provide for one volunteer training session

Fundraise for us!

Volunteers needed

We are always keen to take on new volunteers, to help with anything from administration to providing information, advice and guidance. If you are interested in volunteering please email yasir@retasleeds.co.uk

Charity Information

RETAS (Refugee Education Training Advice Service)

Telephone: 0113 380 5630

Address: 233-237 Roundhay Road, Leeds West Yorkshire LS8 4HS

Established in: 2000

Registered charity no.: 1121330