Slough Refugee Support (SRS) assists refugees and asylum seekers in Slough and surrounding areas to settle with pride and confidence. SRS responds to the needs of those who are destitute and in despair by delivering support and services such as sessions with Immigration advocacy, a job club, English classes, sewing classes, UK citizenship class and raising awareness on health and wellbeing. The charity is run by four part-time staff, supported by 27 volunteers. 

SRS received a grant of £5,500.00 to fund the continuation of its ‘Transforming Lives’ project which aims to improve life skills, education, employability and social inclusion. The funding enabled the group to receive vital immigration training to help support their clients. They were also able to fund volunteer expenses to an employment coordinator to give clients advice on job searching issues, CV and covering letters. This ultimately helps Refugee and Asylum Seekers find employment.

They also funded two sewing teachers who delivered a two weekly sewing classes to 20 women over 33 weeks. They were able to provide a crèche for the children of these mothers who cannot afford for childcare. This class improved social inclusion and gave the women valuable skills.

Mr C had been working but had become sick. SRS Advisers using their experience and expertise helped him to claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support and his overpaid tax. Whilst his ESA application was being processed they helped him to claim for a discretionary housing payment as his rent and council tax was in arrears. They provided support in completing his Capability for Work questionnaire and to renew his expired travel document. When Mr C’s health improved they were able to assist him in getting back to work. He is now in employment and able to support himself and actively contribute to the local community.