Across the United Kingdom, ordinary residents are forming powerful bonds with refugee families, helping them navigate the profound challenges of building a new life. This grassroots movement, known as community sponsorship, is proving to be a vital lifeline for those fleeing conflict and persecution.
From Kabul to a Derbyshire Accent
Samir, an Afghan refugee evacuated after the Taliban takeover in August 2021, now finds his children teasing him about his pronunciation. Having settled in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, his family has integrated so deeply that the youngsters have picked up the local dialect. "Our children correct us when we don't pronounce some words with the proper Derbyshire accent," Samir says with a smile.
This remarkable integration is credited to the support of a local community sponsorship group. These schemes, overseen by the government as one of four official resettlement programmes, see volunteers fundraise, secure housing, and provide wraparound support. This includes help with learning English, accessing work and benefits, and registering with essential services like a GP.
The Power of Local Welcome
For Sue Wall, a member of the Ashbourne group, supporting families like Samir's comes naturally. She sees herself as a grandmotherly figure, an identity readily understood by the newcomers. "If you help people become integrated they are more able to resume their original career or something akin to it," she explains. "If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a town to raise a family."
The model has won political backing. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said in November she aimed to make community sponsorship "the norm," creating capped routes for refugees while ensuring local areas are willing partners.
Stories of Success from Bristol to Bideford
The positive impact echoes nationwide. In Bristol, Syrian refugee Maryam, now 17, arrived with her family in 2018. Supported by the 'Westbury Welcome' group, she recalls the shock of moving from a bustling Jordanian neighbourhood to a quiet English street. "When we looked out of the window and saw there was nobody in the street, it was really scary," she admits. The group's practical and emotional support, including a welcoming Middle Eastern meal, was crucial.
Now studying for her A-levels, Maryam's future is bright. Eveline Johnstone of Westbury Welcome, set up under the auspices of Citizens UK, notes the reciprocal benefits: "It's great for us to do something positive... I have learned so much from the people who have come here."
In Bideford, Devon, a Syrian mother named Ori revels in the simple joy of a garden—a luxury after living in an apartment block. Her support group, inspired by Ken Loach's film The Old Oak, has helped with everything from English classes to setting up the television. Member Jane Kivlin praises the family's resilience, stating, "I don't think I have seen any despair."
A Springboard to a New Life
In a Scottish village, a group of 14 residents are supporting an Afghan family who arrived earlier this year. Abby Boutlee describes the family as "ready to be 'new Scots'" and keen to contribute. The sponsors aim to be a "springboard" into a new life where the family can find their feet.
For Samir back in Ashbourne, the journey from isolation to belonging is complete. He has passed his driving test and been offered a postgraduate course by Derby University. "We have made lots of friends here," he reflects. "Although we come from a completely different country and culture, we have so much in common with the people of this country." His testimony stands as powerful proof that community sponsorship not only supports people in crisis but builds lasting trust between neighbours from all walks of life.
