We provide facilities for the recreation or other leisure-time occupation of refugees and asylum seekers with the aim of improving their conditions of life and general well-being. We achieve this primarily through the provision of therapeutic horticulture activities: gardening, bee-keeping, nature walks, garden crafts, Forest Schooling and more. Other regular activities include cooking, arts & crafts, music, environmental awareness, trips, language support and signposting. During the COVID-19 crisis we are focusing on remote services, which include providing monthly "Wellbeing Parcels" for all of our beneficiaries containing essential items such as food and toiletries, gardening kits, creative and learning activities; a phone-based Befriending service; sharing resources and signposting, and more.
Why the community needs usAsylum seekers and refugees have fled dangerous situations, fearful of their lives. On arriving in the UK, the memories and consequences of these experiences live side by side with the frustrations, confusions and anxieties that arise as they negotiate the asylum system and seek to build new lives in a different society and culture. The Comfrey Project offers a safe, welcoming environment, the chance to focus on their well-being, to learn and develop skills, make friends and integrate.
Our impact on the communityParticipation at the Comfrey Project offers opportunity for positive regular engagement in meaningful, practical activities for a common good. This offers much needed structure and a sense of purpose, progress and community, resulting in improved mental and physical well-being. People are supported to access other relevant support and opportunities available to them, as well as, to integrate in their community.
