Community Story: Afghanistan and Central Asian Association

For our latest community story, we are speaking to the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association, who since 2001 have helped refugees and migrants integrate and proper in the UK. Luke Upton caught up with the team, to talk about their work in their community and what the recent grant from National Grid’s Community Matters Fund (Fuel Poverty) will be delivering to those in need

Q. As an introduction, could you tell us some more about the community that you serve. And why your support is needed.

A. We serve low-income households, refugees, and asylum seekers across the UK including Birmingham, particularly newly arrived Afghan and Ukrainian refugees, who face severe financial hardship, language barriers, and social isolation. Many struggle with high energy costs, lack of awareness about energy-saving measures, and limited access to support services. The rising cost of living and the cold winter months put them at risk of fuel poverty and poor health. Our support is essential to help these vulnerable communities improve their home energy efficiency, reduce costs, and access warm, safe spaces where they can receive advice, build connections, and improve their overall well-being. The impact of our work extends beyond the large Afghan refugee community we support, to migrants from 35 different countries, achieved through established and trusted partnership working with employers, training providers, specialist support agencies, government departments, charity organisations, and community groups.

Q. Brilliant, 35 countries! What’s been your particular focus in recent years? Have there been any major changes?

A. In recent years, our focus has been on supporting refugees and low-income households through employment programmes, legal advice, and community integration initiatives. With the rising cost of living and increased refugee arrivals, we have expanded our efforts to address fuel poverty and energy efficiency, ensuring vulnerable households stay warm and financially stable

Q. You’ve just received funding from the Community Matters Fund from National Grid and Localgiving. Can you tell us some more about the project it will help fund and what it aims to deliver?

A. We are incredibly grateful to National Grid and Localgiving for their generous support through the Community Matters Fund. This funding will enable us to deliver the Birmingham Warmth and Wellbeing Initiative, supporting low-income households and newly arrived refugees, particularly Afghan and Ukrainian families, during the harsh winter months. The project will provide home visits with tailored energy-saving advice, referrals to essential support services, and practical guidance on reducing energy costs. Additionally, we will operate a community Warm Space, offering a heated environment where residents can access energy workshops, social support, and vital resources. This initiative aims to reduce fuel poverty, improve well-being, and foster community resilience when it is needed most. So we say a very big thank you!

Q. How important is this kind of funding to your organisation?

A. This funding is crucial to our organisation as it enables us to provide essential support to vulnerable communities, particularly refugees and low-income households facing fuel poverty. It allows us to expand our outreach, run targeted initiatives, and offer practical energy-saving solutions that improve both financial stability and well-being. Without such funding, many at-risk individuals would struggle to access the advice and warm spaces they desperately need during winter. It also strengthens our capacity to build community resilience, foster integration, and address urgent social challenges effectively.

Q. As we always like to ask, more money aside, what would help you most?

A. Beyond funding, stronger partnerships with energy providers, local authorities, and community organizations would greatly enhance our impact. Access to expert training on energy efficiency for our staff and volunteers would improve the quality of advice we provide. Increased awareness and referrals from healthcare professionals and social services would help us reach more vulnerable households. Additionally, in-kind support such as energy-saving equipment, warm clothing, and venue space for our Warm Space would enable us to provide more direct assistance to those in need.

Q. And finally, is there anything else you'd like to inform our readers about?

A. We are committed to empowering refugees and low-income families, not just by addressing fuel poverty but by fostering long-term stability and integration. Our work goes beyond energy advice—we provide legal support, employment services, and community programs that help individuals rebuild their lives. The Birmingham Warmth and Wellbeing Initiative is part of our broader mission to create a more inclusive and resilient society. We encourage local businesses, volunteers, and community members to join us in making a meaningful impact. Together, we can ensure that no one has to choose between heating and other basic needs this winter.

Find out more about the work of the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association by clicking here.