Darlington Assistance for Refugees
Darlington Assistance for Refugees has been running for over ten years, supporting refugees to settle in the area, as well as people coming to the UK through the asylum system. Trained volunteer mentors help new arrivals to the town to settle in, access services, and engage in therapeutic activities. English language support is offered for beginners and intermediate, in small conversation groups, and there two weekly drop-ins for guidance and advice.
In June 2025, the Foundation agreed a grant of £5,000. This is towards the charity’s work with female asylum seekers and refugees. It will contribute towards the costs of a women’s learning group which will run for two hours each week in term-time. The aim of the group is to teach English to women, including with singing songs and learning to read simple children’s books as well as interacting with their children as they play. Expected outcomes of the group are that women will have a measured improvement in English, more confidence to interact with others, reduced isolation through meeting and becoming friends with others in similar situations, and will become ready to study at college when nursery places become available.
