The situation at the hotel continues to evolve, with support sessions and various activities to enrich residents’ lives and help them integrate into the local community.

Legal and Asylum Advice Group

Once a week, volunteers Paul and Hilary Featherstone and Graham Hart, and Trustee and Befriending Lead Mike Mansergh, have been providing crucial assistance with asylum applications, accessing legal support, and accommodation applications. This is a huge challenge because every case is different, and every case is complex, urgent and harrowing in its own way – the advice group is doing a remarkable job and learning a huge amount as they go. 

English language support

Sanctuary tutors run a weekly English drop-in during term time.  Adults can come along and practice English in a relaxed atmosphere through conversation and games in small groups. 

Bright Beginnings

Emily Squires, a local Teaching Assistant, has launched ‘Bright Beginnings,’ a monthly group that has quickly become a hit among the hotel’s children. With over 30 participants, the group enjoys various activities, including arts and crafts and even magic shows! 

Chichester Bike Project

Working with the Chichester Bike Project, five beneficiaries have been learning the ropes of bike maintenance for new voluntary roles there. This project serves the community by fixing bikes and supporting our bike hub at the hotel. Participants who learn how to mend bikes are eventually rewarded with a bike of their own, empowering them with both a new skill and a means of transportation.

Easter Plans: Kids’ Crafts Clubs

Looking ahead to Easter, we’re excited to announce plans for kids’ crafts clubs. Led by Volunteer Coordinator James Field’s daughter, it promises to offer more creative and engaging activities for the children during the Easter holiday period.