We're working closely with local communities and forming partnerships to provide a welcome for those seeking sanctuary in Brighton & Hove. Here are some of the ways that you can help.
Simple acts of kindness
This is something we can all do, talk to the parents of the new child at school pickup, find out more about the different communities in your neighbourhood, smile at a stranger, offer to give directions to someone who is looking a bit lost.
If you see or hear something that concerns you - report hate crime
If you see people being abused because of who they are, report it.
You can call our duty caseworker on 01273 292735, email communitysafety.casework@brighton-hove.gcsx.gov.uk or visit www.safeinthecity.info for more information.
Are you a private landlord?
We're working with private landlords who wish to offer a new home to Syrian Refugees
The government's Syrian Vulnerable Person's Relocation Scheme agrees the resettlement of 20,000 Syrian people across the UK. As suitable accommodation becomes available, a small number of Syrian households will come to Brighton & Hove through this scheme.
If you are a private landlord and willing to let your property at, or below, local housing allowance rates for two years or more please get in touch. Email us at refugeehelp@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Find out about local housing allowance rates
Can you volunteer some time?
Voices in Exile
We're working in partnership with a local charity, Voices in Exile, to support Syrian households arriving in Brighton & Hove through the government's relocation scheme. Voices in Exile also assist other refugees and asylum seekers in the city.
You can help by becoming a mentor or offering other skills through Voices in Exile's Volunteer Mentoring Scheme please email administrator@voicesinexile.org or call 01273 328598. Voices in Exile also provide a rent deposit scheme and will accept donations of food, toys and money to assist local refugees.
Other voluntary groups
You can find out about other groups supporting refugees in the city and further afield in our directory of services for migrants, asylum seekers and refugees.
Become a foster carer
Do you have a spare bedroom and childcare experience? We're looking for foster carers for children in Brighton & Hove, including unaccompanied asylum seeking children arriving in the UK. These children are usually aged between 13 and 17 years old.
If you feel that you could offer a vulnerable young person security, care and support, we're keen to hear from you. Please contact the council's Fostering Recruitment team on 01273 295444 or go to our fostering website to find out more.
Offer a spare room with Sussex Nightstop - helping young people aged 16 to 25
Sussex Nightstop is a local registered charity that recruits, trains and supports people with a spare room so that it can be offered to a young person in housing need for a short time. Sussex Nightstop are working with Voices in Exiles to ensure that this offer is also made available to destitute refugees and other migrants aged 16 to 25.
Find out more about Nightstop on their website. If you would like to become a Nightstop volunteer you can contact admin@sussexnightstop.org.uk for more details.
Opportunities for work experience, apprenticeships and jobs
Refugees bring skills, experience and qualifications, but they often face barriers finding employment. If you are an employer you can help refugees by advertising opportunities through some of the organisations listed in the directory of services. These organisations are in touch with refugees seeking employment.
By advertising with these organisations you are sending a clear message that refugees are welcome to apply.
Find out more by going to the directory of services