Across the last few weeks, the drop-in social events in Chichester and the newly created Bognor Regis addition have remained steady and well-attended, with each session reflecting the different needs of the people who take part. Some afternoons have been lively and bustling; others have been quieter, allowing more time for focused support. We welcomed … Continue reading Drop-ins update
Category: Refugee Stories
Hear from those we support about their experiences.
Isaac and Anna’s story of building new lives in Chichester
By Mary Atkinson, Sanctuary in Chichester Volunteer. Isaac and Anna* arrived at Heathrow airport in July 2021, with their two-year-old daughter and a suitcase. Anna, aged 20, was also six months pregnant. The family had escaped persecution and war in their home country. “We immediately asked for asylum”, says Isaac, who was 29 at the … Continue reading Isaac and Anna’s story of building new lives in Chichester
Olga’s Story
At the beginning of 2022, Olga was working as a marketing manager for a media agency in central Kyiv. With a Master’s degree in international business, she loved her job, and had a busy social life, while her daughter was thriving in school. By February 2022 Olga’s world had turned upside with the Russian invasion, … Continue reading Olga’s Story
Meet Asifa and her father, Mohammed…
ASIFA’S STORY “There are a lot of reasons why we left our country. The main reason was our future. My father was worried about the future of his daughters. Life is not easy for women and girls in Afghanistan. My father always wanted to educate us and give us a bright future. Therefore, he chose … Continue reading Meet Asifa and her father, Mohammed…
Video: testimony from refugee on the value of volunteering
Kerry Foster, Pathways to Independence Manager recently gave a presentation and information session for volunteer managers and coordinators from a number of local organisations, brought together by Voluntary Action Arun and Chichester (VAAC). Kerry shared insights she’s gained so far about how to overcome barriers to recruitment of refugees and asylum seekers, which received positive feedback … Continue reading Video: testimony from refugee on the value of volunteering
Cenia’s Story
The inspiring story of how Cenia faced fear, uncertainty, adversity and subsequent mental health difficulties with determination and hope. Cenia, Angel and their three-year-old daughter are a young family from El Salvador. Cenia and Angel came to the UK in 2020 having lived in fear in their home country due to worsening gang crime and … Continue reading Cenia’s Story