LASSN - Leeds Asylum Seekers Support Network

What is English at Home and who does it help?

English at Home offers one-to-one English tuition in the learner’s home or online if requested. English at Home is for refugees and asylum seekers who can’t currently access mainstream English lessons (like college or community classes). Many of our learners have physical or mental health issues or are caring for young children.

How can I get help from English at Home?

Some people are referred to English at Home by staff from other organisations. Others hear about us through friends and relatives who been helped by us. You can also refer yourself by contacting the English at Home Manager by phone or completing the referral form on our website.

What happens after I have been referred?

The Volunteers Manager will come to see you at your house or online if requested. They will explain how English at Home functions and check your level of English. Don’t worry, this is not a test. They will also ask you what you want to learn.

If we think we can help, you will be matched to one of our volunteer teachers. This usually takes between one and four months. The length of time you wait depends on the volunteers we have available. For example, if you only want a female volunteer, you may wait longer before you are matched. Once we find someone, the Volunteer Manager will bring the new teacher to your house so you can get to know each other. You and your teacher will agree what time and day you will have lessons.

To make a referral, please use the link on our website and for more information please email us.

LASSN Hosting and Housing is a scheme run by volunteers who arrange temporary accommodation for asylum seekers and refugees who have not yet established their right to stay in the UK.

Accommodation is provided in either:

• The homes of volunteers (“Hosts”) who provide a bed, limited amount of food and washing facilities for an agreed number of weeks. Volunteers receive no payment for taking part in this scheme, although they receive a small amount of out-of-pocket expenses to help pay the cost of light, heat, laundry etc.

• A shared house managed by LASSN. The house is supported by a team of volunteers who provide practical and emotional support in one-to-one and group settings. The guest has the personal use of a bedroom; all other rooms are for communal use.

We will only accept referrals for people who are:

• Either refugees or asylum seekers whose claims have been refused.

• Homeless, destitute or insecurely accommodated.

• Individuals must be currently living in the Leeds area.

LASSN Hosting and Housing is not suitable for:

• People with (or with a recent history of) serious unmanaged mental health problems that affect their relationships with others or who are currently showing signs of acute mental distress.

• People whose behaviour may cause alarm or distress to a Host, their household, or other Guests.

• Other migrants - e.g. someone who has overstayed their visa or other irregular migrants who do not have recourse to public funds.

All referrals must come via  PAFRAS or British Red Cross caseworker only.

For more information, please contact the PAFRAS or British Red Cross caseworker of the individual.