Supporting Juliana*

She was faced with uncertainty about her future, forced to navigate a complex legal system, and was not allowed to work whilst waiting for a decision on her claim.

However, she reached out and signed up as a volunteer at our Lalley centre community pantry and allotment. Once we were able to navigate some of the additional, lengthy and complex safer recruitment checks in place for people from overseas, we were able to progress with her application to ensure she could begin volunteering safely. 

She became one of our most dedicated volunteers, contributing so much to our work, as well as learning new skills to take forward with her and improving her English.  

Julianna was later granted refugee status in the UK, which also gave her the right to work. We supported her with updating her CV and provided references of her volunteering.

She was successful in finding employment, and has gone on to contribute to our community in new ways. She even comes back to help out at events when she can, such as our Christmas fair. 

In our charity, across all of our services, we see every day the power of positive integration, where people are not just welcomed, but also offered meaningful opportunities to connect, contribute and belong. 

Juliana’s story clearly highlights the importance of positive integration, where people seeking sanctuary are valued for who they are and empowered to actively participate in society. 

*Name has been changed