Over the last year, 94 individuals were active participants in our central programme, Pathways to Independence (PTI), designed to ensure people can successfully build their new lives to the point that they no longer need our support. (122 participated since PTI launched in 2023.) Pathways to Independence Manager Kerry Foster is working on expanding access to this effective and impactful programme, by growing her team of specialist volunteers, including mentors.

Over the summer our new PTI planning volunteer worked with three individuals to develop their PTI plans and put them into action, and Kerry has now also recruited an Education Training & Employment (ETE) volunteer who worked with her at the hotel to encourage people to register at Chichester College for English language courses before the start of term in September. The big push over the summer, working with Chicheter College to help people onto courses, resulted in over 100 beneficiaries being enrolled to study English, and they were then supported with the practicalities of attending and understanding what to expect. Kerry is currently working with the college team on creating a
volunteer role specifically to support refugees and asylum seekers there.

Another developing partnership is with UK Harvest as they explore how to include refugees in the work they do, through volunteering and on cooking projects. Kerry also works closely with the University of Chichester (on their specialist bridging module), the Job Centre (DWP) and WSCC among other organisations, to ensure opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers to progress are maximised.

“Rolls-Royce has finally accepted me, and I officially started work two days ago. Thank you so much for your kind support and encouragement – it has been invaluable to me.” – PTI participant

If you would like to get involved in supporting our PTI programme, please get in touch with Kerry: kerryfoster@sanctuaryinchichester.org.