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Vocational Qualification for 16 to 18 year olds.

In addition to learning more about the English language, its grammar, spelling and conversational patterns, this course will help you to improve your Maths and IT skills.

Higher-level students will be able to further develop their practical skills by combining ESOL with another subject such as construction or hair and beauty.

Salford City College can offer financial support with travelling to college, childcare and a bursary to eligible students.

How to access:

For more information, please view their website.

To apply to the course, click 'apply now'

In addition to learning more about the English language, its grammar, spelling and conversational patterns, this course will help you to improve your Maths and IT skills.

Higher-level students will be able to further develop their practical skills by combining ESOL with another subject such as construction or hair and beauty.

Salford City College can offer financial support with travelling to college, childcare and a bursary to eligible students.

How to access:

For more information, please view their website.

To apply to the course, click 'apply now'

In addition to learning more about the English language, its grammar, spelling and conversational patterns, this course will help you to improve your maths and IT skills.

Higher-level students will be able to further develop their practical skills by combining ESOL with another subject such as construction or hair and beauty.

Salford City College can offer financial support with travelling to college, childcare and a bursary to eligible students.

How to access:

For more information, please view their website.

To apply to the course, click 'apply now'

We are a free recruitment service commissioned by Salford City Council. We are a small team who work with passion and dedication getting Salford residents into work.

We provide a friendly, personal and professional service, giving people the opportunity to turn their lives around with full-time and part-time jobs, apprenticeships and work experience prospects.

We provide job seekers with access to independently sourced vacancies which are unavailable in the wider job market - increasing the chances of our candidates obtaining the role.

• Job search and application support
• Courses / training
• Paid work experience
• Website resource

How to access:

Email to set up an account

Broughton Hub provides a 'one stop shop' for a wide range of community services, facilities and access to all council services.

Broughton Hub is a community service in Salford that helps local people access various support. It works with residents, families, and community groups to improve wellbeing and provide information on different services. The Hub offers support for issues like health, housing, education, and employment.

Services include:

• Council services
• Hate crime reporting centre
• Information and advice
• Health services
• Nursery and Youth Centre
• Salford Foodbank distribution and collection point
• Digital assistance
• School uniform exchange

Our activities regularly change so see our website for full list https://www.salford.gov.uk/council-buildings-and-venues/broughton-hub/

How to access:

Attend drop in or give us a call

We provide free food to anyone in food poverty. We do not operate a voucher system as we don’t see how that helps people struggling with food poverty for the longer term.

We provide basic food stuff and as much fresh food as we are able to obtain from other food providers, such as Fareshare and Fareshare Go (food from Tesco extra and express) or from our allotment.

We seek to help wherever we can and will always give at least one food parcel and then continue depending on the circumstances presented.

How to access:

Individuals can self-refer by contacting the service directly. Access the project via the car park entrance. Once a referral is made, clients receive a food parcel that contains essential items, such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and fresh produce.

You can also call us for help if necessary.

The programme aims to help men  achieve their goals, develop a bespoke action plan, deliver training to develop new skills, offer volunteering opportunities, work placements and employment.

We also offer one to one practical information, advice and guidance to help unemployed men to enhance and improve their wellbeing, access local employment opportunities and improve their quality of life.

How to access:

We welcome referrals from individuals, VCSE and partner organisations.  To refer or self-refer, please download and complete a referral form via: https://www.salfordfoundation.org.uk/services/adults/employment-and-training-services/

Forward this to the Targeted Adult Services Team on adultservices@salfordfoundation.org.uk.

Our new Employability Project aims to help men improve their confidence, gain work experience, access training opportunities, develop employability skills, meet local employers and move into work.

How to access:

To refer a client to the service, please use the Landsec Futures Employability Referral Form in the download section : https://www.salfordfoundation.org.uk/services/adults/landsec-futures-employability-project/

The project is generously supported by Landsec for three years as part of their commitment to deliver more social value.

‘The Shed’ is a safe and confidential place which offers holistic support including  information, advice, advocacy, guidance, mentoring and group support for men living in Salford or men with a local connection.

Our Team aim to help men to move forward in their lives and reach their potential using professional help, volunteer and peer support and currently focuses on the following themes:

• Welfare assistance & wellbeing

• Learning, Skills & Work

• Reducing re-offending & rehabilitation

How to access:

Drop-in

Please call or email us for more information

The service focuses on providing trauma-informed support for adult men aged 18+ who are on probation. It focuses on people’s strengths and aspirations, giving men the greatest opportunity to move forward positively in their lives.

When someone accesses the service, they receive tailored support that’s designed to match with their aspirations and help them meet their goals. Tailored support helps to motivate men to make positive changes around:

• Personal wellbeing

• Family and relationships

• Building social connections

• Independent living skills

Our goal is to give people more opportunities, tools and positive relationships, meaning that the likelihood of re-engaging with probation services again the future is reduced.

How to access:

All referrals are co-ordinated centrally by The Big Life Group with Salford Probation Service. If you are on probation, please contact your Probation Officer or Key Worker if you would like to be referred to our service.

Probation staff are also co-located with Salford Foundation staff to help run a smooth and integrated service from initial referral, needs and risk assessment to sharing progress and support plans for men.

Trauma-informed, holistic services with specialist interventions and peer support which empowers women experiencing complex and multiple challenges to progress and change. Key groups include female offenders and victims/survivors of domestic abuse.

Services include:

• Pathways Programme: supports women aged 18+, including marginalised and vulnerable women in Salford with low level mental health needs.

• Indigo Programme: The project provides support for women aged 18+ living in Salford who have experienced domestic abuse including victims and survivors, who are no longer in the relationship, and consider themselves safe.

• Together Women Project: Gender specific service providing a one stop shop of support for female offenders with multiple complex needs and living in Salford.

• The Effective Women's Centres Project: The aim of the EWC Project is to build and share evidence on how women’s centres transform lives and benefit communities to inform and shift policy.

• Elevate Salford (for women): The programme aims to help women achieve their goals, develop a bespoke action plan, deliver training to develop new skills, offer volunteering opportunities, work placements and employment.

How to access:

Call, email, web-form or service referral https://www.salfordfoundation.org.uk/contact/

The Salford Homelessness Service helps people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. They work with individuals and families in Salford, offering support to find safe and secure housing. The service is available to anyone facing homelessness, including those living in temporary accommodation or staying with friends.

The service provides various types of help. For example, they offer advice on housing options, assistance with applying for housing benefits, and support in accessing emergency accommodation. They can also help people create a personalised plan to improve their situation and maintain their tenancy.

To Access:

Referrals to the service can come from different sources, such as social services, local charities, or directly from individuals seeking help. The team works closely with various organisations to ensure people receive the right support, including mental health services and financial advice. Self-referral form: https://gm-ca.org/referral/FormPage.aspx

If you are homeless today, go to Salford Housing Options Point and ask for housing options advice. You can also go to Salford Loaves and Fishes on Paddington Close in Pendleton Monday to Friday 9am to 2pm.

Do I need to bring anything? You will need to take the following with you:
Proof of your ID such as a valid passport, a driving licence, a medical card, a letter from your GP Proof of your income or benefits Proof of your National Insurance number

What will I be asked at my housing options assessment?
You will be asked questions about your current housing situation. This is important as it will allow the team to provide you with tailored advice relevant to your circumstances. If you have nowhere to live, this will trigger a homelessness assessment, under the homelessness legislation.

What is temporary accommodation?
Customers who are assessed under the homelessness legislation as having a priority need, and have no accommodation available to them that evening, may be offered emergency accommodation. This could be a hostel or bed-and-breakfast accommodation.

When will I receive a decision?
Once we have completed your assessment, we will write to you with our decision. If we have accepted a duty to re-house you, we will allow access to Salford Home Search for help finding a new home.

Salford Loaves and Fishes is a charity supporting homeless and vulnerable people in Salford. We provide day services, including meals, advice, and activities, to support those in need. We assist homeless individuals, those at risk of homelessness, and vulnerable people in Salford.

We offer a welcoming environment, practical support, and community activities throughout the week to improve well-being and stability.

How to access:

Drop in service during hours listed. Can phone to explain a client's complex needs if necessary.

Volunteer Centre Salford offers support for Salford residents, organisations, and groups whose services are for the benefit of the people of Salford. 

We work with voluntary, community, social enterprise, public and private organisations. We are happy to advertise volunteering opportunities from organisations outside Salford, that Salford residents would like to engage in.

To Access:

Get in touch - please book an appointment via volunteer@salfordcvs.co.uk or call 0161 787 7795

The Salvation Army Blackpool Citadel provides essential support to individuals and families in need. They offer various services, including food banks, emergency assistance, and help for the homeless. Their aim is to assist people facing difficulties, such as those struggling with poverty, addiction, or mental health issues.

The Citadel works closely with local authorities, charities, and community groups to connect with those in need. People can be referred to their services by social workers, health professionals, or even self-referrals from individuals seeking help.

Examples of their work include providing meals and groceries to families, offering a safe space for homeless individuals, and running programmes to support recovery from addiction. They also organise community events to promote social inclusion and well-being.

The Salvation Army in Blackpool runs a weekly drop in service and provides support to refugees and people seeking asylum in Blackpool. They provide food and clothing donations as well as some casework support.

We offer a safe, supportive environment for individuals, helping them make positive choices about their current circumstances.

Discovery House provides  supported housing to single adults experiencing homelessness. Clients stay with us for up to two years.

Our programme is designed to help our clients craft a new sense of self, renew their sense of independence and control, and realise their potential as members of the community.

Service includes:

We offer a personal service that focuses on the strengths of each individual, and supports them in areas they wish to develop. This might include:

• Accessing sustainable accommodation

• Learning skills in budgeting, paying bills, managing debt and dealing with paperwork

• Accessing employment, training, education, and voluntary work

• Pursuing personal interests.

• Signposting to specialist services, including substance misuse, mental health or domestic violence services

How to access:

Discovery/ Endeavour/Independence house are part of The Connect Manchester Supported housing consortium working in partnership with key providers in the city.

All referrals are made via the Manchester Access and Support (MAS) Gateway, which is an online assessment and referral system operated by Manchester City Council.

If you are an Agency wishing to make referrals on behalf of an individual and do not currently have access to the MASS Gateway, please contact the MAS Gateway Team at masgateway@manchester.gov.uk .

Help to find and apply for jobs.

Services include:

• Work Club
• Unpaid work experience
• Interview skills

How to access:

Through Thursday morning drop in or by referral from other services

We offer a safe, supportive environment for individuals, helping them make positive choices about their current circumstances.

Independence House provides supported housing to single adults experiencing homelessness. Clients stay with us for up to two years.

Our programme is designed to help our clients craft a new sense of self, renew their sense of independence and control, and realise their potential as members of the community.

Service includes:

We offer a personal service that focuses on the strengths of each individual, and supports them in areas they wish to develop. This might include:

• Accessing sustainable accommodation

• Learning skills in budgeting, paying bills, managing debt and dealing with paperwork

• Accessing employment, training, education, and voluntary work

• Pursuing personal interests.

• Signposting to specialist services, including substance misuse, mental health or domestic violence services

How to access:

Discovery/ Endeavour/Independence house are part of The Connect Manchester Supported housing consortium working in partnership with key providers in the city.

All referrals are made via the Manchester Access and Support (MAS) Gateway, which is an online assessment and referral system operated by Manchester City Council.

If you are an Agency wishing to make referrals on behalf of an individual and do not currently have access to the MASS Gateway, please contact the MAS Gateway Team at masgateway@manchester.gov.uk .

Drop in Job club

• Volunteering
• Work Club

Samaritans is a charity that provides confidential support to anyone in emotional distress or crisis. Their main service is a 24/7 helpline where people can talk about their feelings and problems without fear of judgement.

This service is available to anyone, including those experiencing loneliness, depression, or thoughts of suicide.

Samaritans works with individuals from all backgrounds, ensuring everyone can access their support. Examples of their work include listening to someone who is feeling overwhelmed, offering emotional support to those going through tough times, and helping people find ways to cope with their feelings. They also provide resources and information about mental health and wellbeing.

Samaritans plays a crucial role in supporting people in crisis, helping them feel heard and understood. They are committed to suicide prevention. They support people not only for the moment of crises, but to prevent the crisis. They give people ways to cope and the skills to be there for others. And they encourage, promote and celebrate those moments of connection between people that can save lives. They offer listening and support to people and communities in times of need.

How to access:

Call, email or write them a letter to access their service, or download their app. All free of charge.

Interpreters available, service for those with speech impediments available.

Hill House’s primary purpose is to enable people seeking sanctuary to have some time away from the city, and to enjoy a few hours or a few days in the countryside. We arrange regular day trips for Gloucestershire’s asylum seekers and refugees, and welcome people from further afield for shorter or longer visits. As a sanctuary seeker, you may be in touch with an organisation that is working in support of refugees and asylum seekers or others in trauma, which can arrange a trip to Hill House. The house is freely available for you. Local refugee support agencies and individuals are welcome to use the house for respite, for away days and for arranging activiites in the area for their members and service users. For those supporting groups in the refugee sector, anywhere in the country, you are welcome to use the house for self-catered stays of up to a week at subsidised cost. Contact Caroline to discuss how we can make any of these activities work for you. There is wheelchair access to the ground floor and to the main lawn. (Apart from day visits, the house is not suitable for families with toddlers.)

Our ISVA Service offers free, non-judgemental, emotional and practical support to women (18+), living in Leeds, who have reported sexual violence to the police, or are considering reporting to the police. Our ISVAs will support you throughout your journey through the criminal justice process, for as long as it lasts, including providing support at Court.

Confidential, free, specialist and independent from the police or statutory bodies. We provide counselling online and in our women-only safe space in Leeds city centre, to women aged 18 and over who have experienced any form of sexual violence or abuse at any time in their lives. We work with interpreters, who are also bound by our confidentiality rules.

We open to referrals once a month. Please see the website for exact dates.

Waiting times are generally around 12 months after a referral has been accepted.

Our helpline provides non-judgemental, listening, emotional support to women and girls ages 13 and over.

This service is confidential and anonymous. The helpline is not able to work with interpreters.

You can call, text, or email.

FREEPHONE – 0808 802 3344

We are open for calls: Mondays 12-2pm / Tuesdays 8-10pm / Wednesdays 6-8pm / Thursdays 2-4pm / Sundays 6.30-8.30pm.

TEXT – 07860022880

EMAIL – support@sarsvl.org.uk

ISVA stands for Independent Sexual Violence Advocate. A Young Person’s ISVA provides emotional and practical support to young people aged between 13 – 17 who have experienced any form of sexual violence, and have either reported to the police, or are thinking about reporting to the police.

If you have reported to the police, our Young Person’s ISVA can support you throughout the criminal justice process, for as long as it lasts, including providing support at Court.

If you are accessing the Service when you turn 18, the Young Person’s ISVA will continue to work with you.

You do not need to have reported to the police to access the Service. If you are unsure about what you want to do, our Young Person’s ISVA can talk you through how to report, and what happens once a report has been made so that you have the information you need to reach a decision which is right for you.

Our Young Person’s ISVA is independent of the police, social services, and other statutory agencies.

Schools and Colleges of Sanctuary is an initiative of Bristol City of Sanctuary, which aims to: Promote positive attitudes within schools, colleges and their communities around people seeking sanctuary. Support schools and colleges to take positive steps and to be proud of being places of safety and inclusion for all. Recognise and celebrate schools and colleges that are committed to welcoming and supporting people seeking sanctuary. What is a School or College of Sanctuary? It is a school or college that is committed to being a safe and welcoming place for people whose lives were in danger in their own country. This means it is a school or college that helps its students, staff and wider community to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary, and to extend a welcome to everyone as equal, valued members of the school community. It is an establishment that is proud to be a place of safety and inclusion for all.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses offer you the opportunity to improve your English language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing, in a way that is tailored to your needs as a non-native speaker.

All Seetec services and programmes are offered free of charge, and we can even help to financially support you on many of our services (please note each programme will include details of any financial support).

How to access:

You can find an extensive list of all of our current ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) courses by using the link at the bottom of the page: https://seetec.co.uk/service/esol-courses-english-for-speakers-of-other-languages/

Learn how to sew African print materials and beadwork in a social friendly group.

Come and sew, speak English and learn with us! All the materials are provided. For refugee and asylum seeker women only. For referrals and more information, please contact Dawn at Bridges for Communities.

A drop-in service in Hull offering HIV & STI testing for any Hull residents including:

Finger prick blood testing for HIV and Syphilis.

Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea screening (throat swab, self-taken vaginal swab, self-taken anal swab and/or urine sample - depending on sexual risk) accurate from 2 weeks.

Pregnancy testing (urine sample) accurate from 3 weeks.

To book an appointment the office calling hours are 10:00-16:00pm.

Sheba Arts is a refugee and migrant-led arts organisation based in Greater Manchester. We make art accessible to everyone and support the artistic practice and expression of people from the global majority, refugee and migrant communities.

Volunteering:

• We are doing a lot of exciting work. We need more people to join our team and support our projects. We are searching for volunteers in Manchester and Salford. If you enjoy arts and culture, and you are open to try new things - volunteering with us is a great way to gain new skills and experience. Also, you will get to work in our friendly and supportive team and meet a lot of new people in our community.

• https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScSZrLiTDPeDM2-sfzf2XMBMYzLzxM3xKJZFvZBvgsdsnF0Eg/viewform

Wigan outreach programme:

• A 3-year arts and well being and 6 weeks training courses in Wigan. Offering a variety of art forms and courses, creating a vibrant arts and education space where people want to come and spend time, as well as learn skills to boost their confidence and improve access to the job market. The creative workshops are open to everyone regardless of their age and backgrounds.

Creative Writing Training Course: 5 November - 10 December, every Wednesday (6-8 PM online)

• Join our next 6-week creative writing training with facilitator Natasha Tingle. This training is designed to help you explore your creativity through different forms of writing. We’ll begin with self-reflection and journaling, then move through poetry, non-fiction, and fiction. In the fifth and sixth sessions, you’ll focus on the format and themes that matter most to you, leading into a final project.

• https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdh6w34uXaH-hVPbcgLREQbeBpsE7aoalcMwScchHKxWqullQ/viewform

Creative Workshops:

• Join us for creative free workshops in Leigh and Wigan. Choose from painting, collage, and drawing with no experience  needed. It's a relaxed space to unwind, get creative and take a mindful break. Sign up to our WhatsApp group for creatives in Leigh and Wigan to stay updated on our events, workshops, and training. This group is informational only, and only admins will share updates.

• https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDsMrrYH3HeluM3xdgzfKWtiTxJfT_totx3Q71BsHn6os11Q/viewform

Sheba Festival 2026:

Next year, we are thrilled to bring the Sheba Festival to Longsight Art Space! Expect a vibrant programme of workshops, performances, and plenty of opportunities to get involved. Whether you’d like to volunteer, take part in creative sessions, or share your own talents, there will be something for everyone. Stay tuned for more details! We can’t wait to celebrate with you! If you are an artist and have an idea, send us your proposal to producer@shebaarts.com

We would love to hear from you! The Festival Expression of Interest Open Call will be launching soon!

How to access:

Please email us for more information

Shelter Greater Manchester is a charity that helps people facing housing problems, including those struggling with eviction, rent arrears, or unsafe living conditions. They offer free support and advice to anyone who is homeless or at risk of losing their home.

Services Include:

• Information Resource: Advice Support and Guidance (ASG): Specialist advice and support in housing, welfare benefits, debt and dealing with living in the private rented sector.

• Specialist advice: For complex issues that can’t be resolved by ASG, Shelter advisers offer specialist level advice and support on housing, debt and welfare benefits. Private Rented

• Sector service: Set up in response to Shelter’s Rogue Landlords Campaign, this service ensures that tenants are able to access the right advice and support. The support we offer is intended to help you to maintain and sustain your private tenancy or to move on in a planned way.

• Legal service: The Legal team offers specialist legal advice to individuals or families with housing problems who are eligible for legal help or Legal Aid in matters such as unlawful evictions and homelessness appeals. Our legal team can help if you are eligible for Legal Aid, for example, if you need to go to court about a housing problem or to challenge a council’s homelessness decision.

You need to make an appointment to speak to the Manchester legal team. Please call 0344 515 1774 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

This number is for new legal appointments only.

How to access:

People can contact them directly for help or be referred by other organisations, such as social services or local charities.

Bristol Reporting Solidarity are a group of volunteers at the Patchway Police Station who support migrants when they have to report to the Home Office. We wear badges with a butterfly logo and stand inside Patchway Police Station. We're present while you are signing. We have a QR code that links to a list of additional support across the city.

Come along to our job club to find out about the latest opportunities, get help to improve your CV and support searching for jobs.

Join the Skylight Employment team each Friday at First House for our Pathway to Employment Service.

Let the team advise, guide and support you with;

• One to One employment, training and education advice

• Creating a CV

• Preparing for interview

• Completing a job application

• Job searching

Pathway to Employment is proud to introduce new aspects of the service providing opportunities to meet local employers, learn about money saving advice and take part bitesize workshops to maximise your employability!

How to access:

Our service is free and supports all residents of Stockport.

Complete the contact form to get in touch with a member of the SKylight team via: https://www.sk-y-light.org/about-us/contact-us/#ContactUsForm

At the heart of Smart Works sits an Interview Dressing and Preparation service designed to help our clients feel and look their best in their job interview.

Our dedicated, volunteer-powered team is on hand to help clients feel relaxed, confident and ready to put their best foot forward.

How our service works:

• Interview preparation (Styling)- Each client receives a bespoke, hour-long styling consultation with a trained volunteer, to find a high-quality interview outfit that will fill her with confidence. This is free of charge and the clothes are hers to keep.

• Interview preparation (Coaching)- This is followed by a one-to-one 60-minute coaching session with an expert interview coach, where each client receives valuable interview preparation.

• No interview? No problem! We provide dedicated 60-minute Career Coaching sessions to our clients to help them secure an interview and take the next step toward employment. Once an interview has been scheduled, the client can come back to us for an Interview Styling and Preparation appointment to receive high-quality clothing and one-to-one coaching ahead of her interview.

How to access:

Smart Works operates on a referral basis. Our clients are referred to us from Job Centres, mental health charities, women’s refuges, homeless shelters, the prison service, care service and youth organisations.

We offer appointments at our two Greater Manchester centres as well as virtual appointments over Zoom.

Our socials: @smartworksgm

Garden Needs is a centre where we run a regular mental health and horticulture project. It is also a hub for green wellbeing projects and interventions that we offer in parks and green spaces across Greater Manchester.

The Garden Needs site is on the boarder of Salford and Prestwich and is right on the edge of the Kersal Dale Woodland.

Garden Needs hosts a number of projects including forest school training, woodland wellbeing for adults, a mental health and horticulture project, a pre-school forest school, green social prescribing, holiday clubs and, outdoor education services for schools.

Garden Needs is based at Salford M7, just 2.5 miles away from Salford precinct, 30 minutes on one bus (and we cover public transport expenses). Lunch is provided!

To Access:

Please phone, email or use the form to contact them directly: https://gardenneeds.org.uk/about-us/

Garden Needs is a service that helps people improve their gardens and outdoor spaces. They work with various groups, including individuals with mental health challenges, disabilities, and those facing social isolation. The service provides support to enhance well-being through gardening activities.

Once referred, participants can join sessions where they learn about gardening techniques, plant care, and garden design. The team also offers advice on maintaining gardens, creating spaces for relaxation, and growing food.

For example, participants might work on planting flowers, building raised beds for vegetables, or designing calming garden areas. These activities not only beautify spaces but also promote physical health and mental well-being. By engaging in gardening, individuals can connect with others, learn new skills, and experience the joy of watching their plants grow. Overall, Garden Needs aims to create a supportive community through the shared experience of gardening.

To Access:

People can just drop in or can contact us by email. Referrals can come from healthcare professionals, social workers, or community organisations.

A Healthy Living Centre offering Free Activities, Courses and Events for Salford People with the aim of giving communities the opportunity to access Healthier and Happier Lives.

Range of services and facilities offered include:

• Free counselling,

• Fitness and health activities

• Social opportunities

• Woodland Wellbeing Walks

• Gardening Sessions

• History Walks

• Saturday Socials and Exercise Sessions

• Language

• Arts and crafts

• Community cafe

• Volunteering opportunities and more.

They also offer services to help with a range of health topics, such as quitting smoking, and taking control of your health in a variety of ways.

To Access:

Please visit website to find out more.

See website for full details.

Sessions include: Life in the UK test preparation, food redistribution, ESOL through cooking, family play.

Activities dependant on funding - please email for updates.

Taught by our highly skilled and qualified Sewing Tutors. Come and learn valuable skills for life with a kind and caring group of people.

This class is for adults of all skill levels, no experience needed. Sign up not required, just turn up and join the fun!

Food and refreshments are provided at all classes.

Our social supermarket is open every Tuesday from 10am to 11am where members can collect fresh fruit and vegetables as well as other food essentials.

How to access
Service members must complete an assessment and then will be added to a waiting list until a space comes available. Assessments can be requested via our Welcome Centre every Monday and Tuesday between 10am and 12.30pm

Speak&Eat is a free, regular six-week cookery and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) class that is open to refugees and asylum seekers who are looking to improve their English, whilst preparing and sharing delicious foods from around the world. During each weekly session, we explore a different cuisine chosen by individual group participants. Together we cook and prepare dishes from countries across the world. We then learn and practice dining traditions and customs from those countries as we sit together around the dining table to enjoy the food we have cooked. An hour is also dedicated to speak and improve English skills with the guide of the super talented and amazing Aisha, our qualified English teacher. To refer someone or find out more, please contact Kelly.

The Job Club has expanded and developed over the years and the aim is to support local residents.

Services include:

• CV writing

• Job searches

• Writing applications

• Help with interview techniques, presentations and telephone skills.

Our Job Club coordinator has devised a weekly file/notice board of updated new job vacancies so users can access this information easily and apply for suitable positions.

To Access:

For more information about services please phone or email.

We provide ESOL from Entry 1 to Entry 3, across the 3 categories of Reading, Writing and Speaking and Listening. If you would like to develop your English skills for work and everyday life, this course is perfect for you

How to access:

For more information, contact edu@standguide.co.uk , or to join the course call our referrals team on 0161 881 4826.

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a more understanding and just society where refugees are welcomed and can thrive in the UK.

Our student groups based in colleges and universities and a central team of experts, work together at a number of levels to bring about lasting change. We:

• Volunteer locally working directly with refugees, building understanding and connections

• Campaign nationally for policy change and equal access to higher education for refugees

• Learn about refugee protection and the asylum journey in the UK with experts and peers

To Access:

Email us or join our Facebook group to find out more about what we do: https://www.facebook.com/theSTARnetwork. You can also visit our website to access information on universities.

If you are thinking about starting a business in Wigan or would like to grow your existing business, we would love to help you.

Start Your Own Business in Wigan contains resources and the information that will help give your venture the best chance of success. It also highlights organisations who offer friendly advice and the services that you are likely to need as a new startup or local business owner.

Services Include:

• Free start-up resources and useful local contacts, including the free Start-up Pack. Register to access via https://www.syob.net/auth/signup

• Free Start-Up Workshop, designed to increase your chances of success.

It runs from 9.30am to 12.30pm (London time) and everybody is welcome!!

Book your space via: https://www.syob.net/workshops

How to access:

Contact form: https://www.syob.net/contact.php

For general inquiries please email: info@syob.net

We provide a wide range of language classes, a conversational café and learning experiences to support the development of English language skills, wellbeing, community awareness, confidence, employability skills and integration plus Information Advice and Guidance.

Courses are face to face and online including daytime, evenings and weekends at Pre-entry (beginners) level to Level 2.

Bespoke courses are delivered on request.

How to access:

Please call or email us for more information

Stepping Stone is a charity that supports homeless individuals and families in Manchester. They focus on helping people move towards stable housing and a better quality of life. The service works with various groups, including those facing mental health issues, substance misuse, and other challenges that contribute to homelessness.

Services Included:

• Temporary accommodation

• Support with finding permanent housing

• Access to essential facilities like showers and laundry.

• Provides personalised support plans to help clients achieve their goals.

• Offer life skills workshops, such as budgeting and cooking classes.

To Access:

Referrals to Stepping Stone can be made by social services, healthcare providers, or directly by individuals seeking help. To make a referral: https://www.stepping-stone.org.uk/referrals/.

Creative and welcoming spaces for refugee women.

We provide welcoming spaces for refugee and asylum seeking women in Bristol to be creative and make beautiful and useful textile based art, clothes, and homewares, while gaining confidence and making friends.

We offer a range of sewing opportunities from hand-sewing and embroidery to dressmaking, and we welcome the involvement of volunteers to support the project (no expertise needed but some sewing experience required). Weekly hand sewing and machine sewing classes.

During the day St Johns Centre offers a wide variety of courses and activities that help people build their skills and confidence, engage more fully in their community, and increase their chances of paid work.

Courses generally run for one term, three times a year, but we also run shorter courses. We have a range of wellbeing activities during the day and evening, including family activities, choirs, and many different exercise classes.

How to access:

If you are interested in joining one of these courses or groups, please come to one of our Open Days. If you can’t come to the open day, please email or call. If you do not know what level you are, then we can offer a free assessment.

We generally have several ESOL courses and conversation groups running at St John’s at various levels, in association with the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) and other providers.

In September 2025, tour ESOL classes will include:

• Entry Level 2 Accredited

• Pre-entry and Entry 1 unaccredited

• Functional Skills (for fluent English speakers who need help with reading and writing)

We also have our open access, volunteer-led groups, which are free and open to anyone at any level.

• ESOL Group
• Discover Manchester.

How to access:

You can contact the Trafford ESOL Service for an assessment and information about other ESOL classes in Trafford borough: https://gmesol.org/esol-in-trafford/

They hold a drop-in session at St John’s Centre from 1-3pm on the fourth Tuesday of every month if you would like to talk to someone in person – no appointment needed.

Work placements in our shop, warehouse and van. Lots of training and support given. Good way to build your CV, improve English skills and gain confidence working in the UK.

We provide a comprehensive and co-ordinated forensic, counselling and aftercare service to men, women and children living in the Greater Manchester area who have experienced rape or sexual assault, whether this has happened recently or in the past. We also offer immediate crisis support and a forensic service to Cheshire.

Services include:

• Forensic medical examinations

• Access to emergency contraception

• Pregnancy advice

• Sexual health screening for sexually transmitted infections

• Access to an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor to provide support through any court action taken.

To Access:

You can access our services either via Police or you can contact us directly. To make a referral: give the Saint Mary’s SARC a call to discuss. Our helpline is 0161 276 6515 and is open 24 hours but if you are a professional it will be best to call during working hours.

Stockport City of Sanctuary is a grass-roots movement focused on making Stockport a welcoming and safe place for refugees and sanctuary seekers. We are part of the City of Sanctuary UK movement, which spans across communities in the UK.

We believe in the power of community and that sanctuary seekers should be welcomed, supported, and celebrated as valued members of society.

What we do:

Our efforts are driven by six core objectives-

1) Welcoming Sanctuary Seekers

We work with local communities, businesses, and faith groups to create a network of support for sanctuary seekers.

2) Sanctuary Awards Program

We support organisations that demonstrate exemplary commitment to inclusion and hospitality by awarding them the Sanctuary Award.

3) Advocacy

We engage with the Stockport City Council and other stakeholders to secure formal recognition of Stockport as a City of Sanctuary.

4) Community Events

We host workshops, cultural celebrations, and public forums that foster understanding and solidarity.

5) Raising Awareness

We use various media to highlight the challenges refugees and sanctuary seekers face, while also celebrating their contributions to society.

6) Building Capacity

We strengthen local groups and volunteers, enabling them to provide meaningful assistance to sanctuary seekers.

How to access:

We invite everyone—individuals, organisations, and institutions—to join our mission. Together, we can make Stockport a beacon of hope, compassion, and inclusion.

For more information please check our website or email us at info@stockport.cityofsanctuary.org

At Stockport College we have part-time adult ESOL courses in the daytime at our town centre campus on the A6.

Lessons are usually once or twice a week. We offer courses at all levels from Entry 1 to Level 2. Learners work towards recognised ESOL qualifications in all skills – Speaking & Listening, Reading and Writing.

We also offer part-time Maths, IT (digital skills) and Living & Working in the UK courses for ESOL learners.

The college offers many other courses which students can progress to after ESOL.

How to access:

Contact Form - Send us a general enquiry or request more course information by using our online form: https://stockport.tscg.ac.uk/contact-us/

At Stockport Continuing Education Service, we believe that education is a lifelong journey, and it's never too late to start. Our mission is: to support and develop learning communities in order to promote economic well-being and social inclusion

We offer a variety of courses including:

• English

• ESOL

• Maths

• Children & Young People

• Community Interpreting

• Counselling

How to access:

For course details, please get in touch with us via phone or email

Stockport Homes offers a homelessness service to help people in Stockport who are at risk of becoming homeless or who are already homeless. They work with individuals and families, providing support to find stable housing and improve their living situations.

Services include:

• Advice on housing options

• Help with applications for social housing

• Support to access temporary accommodation when needed.

• Assist clients in developing a housing plan

• Offering guidance on budgeting and managing finances.

How to access:

Please phone or email in for more information or contact a member of team via: https://www.stockporthomes.org/do-it-online/tell-us/contact-us/

For a homeless emergency outside normal office opening hours, please call 0161 474 2818.

Referrals can come from various sources, such as local agencies, social services, or individuals seeking assistance.

Work Clubs are a local advice and support service for jobseekers looking to find employment. They also help jobseekers increase their chances of successfully getting a job.

Service includes:

• Share job hunting experiences

• Learn new skills

• Find opportunities

• Meet other jobseekers

• Get advice on interviews, CVs and even volunteering opportunities

How to access:

Brinnington is available for anyone to attend at drop-in

For more information please call us.

Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business or need support to grow an existing one, Build A Business is here for you.

Our programme targets small businesses, entrepreneurs, and those with a business idea, providing tailored support across all 10 Greater Manchester authorities. 

From Artists to Zero-Waste Shop Owners, Alpaca Farmer to Zumba Instructor, we’re dedicated to helping you succeed, no matter what your business focus is. Join us and transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

Each library service boasts its own dedicated Small Business Enterprise Officer. They are committed to offering a variety of workshops and services, including information surgeries, digital support for online selling, business planning, and pitching assistance.

To Access:

To schedule your appointment, complete this form: https://buildabusinessgm.org/one-to-one-support/#121-booking.

The Apprenticeship Store is designed to be a friendly, welcoming, informal environment where customers can drop in at any time and obtain advice and help.

How to access:

Want to be an Apprentice? Unsure what Apprenticeship to do? Would you like to be informed of local Apprenticeships in your chosen area or invited to Apprenticeship job fairs?

Get in touch with us today to arrange a 1-2-1 team's call with a member of the team. Telephone us, or complete an Apprenticeships Learner form: https://interactive.stockport.gov.uk/apprenticeships/Home/Learner .

Explore Jobs, Training Courses and Support Services. Promoting Careers in Stockport, now and for the future.

Service offers:

• Job search and application support
• Mentoring
• Paid work experience
• Website resource
• Interview skills

How to access:

Please phone, email or access their website for more information.

We offer a range of training options to those who work in the private, voluntary and independent sectors with children and adults in Stockport.

This offer includes a range of e-learning courses and classroom based training. Access e-learning courses on safeguarding, food safety, dementia, end of life care, autism and more.

The courses currently available are listed below:

• Dysphagia training

• Mental Capacity Act training

• Safeguarding vulnerable adults from abuse (Alerter Training)

• Safeguarding adults referrers training

• Safeguarding adults initial 2 day inquiry officer

• Safeguarding adults inquiry officer refresher

• Self-neglect and hoarding training

• Sensory loss awareness

How to access:

Learning Pool is the home of the council's e-learning courses. It's available to both the council’s workforce and the workforce of its partners.

You can access the website by visiting Learning Pool: https://stockport.learningpool.com/login/index.php .

The first time you visit the site you'll need to create a new account.

At Stockport Race Equality Partnership we support and advocate for Ethnic Communities within Stockport including Refugees.

We aim to integrate communities in Stockport, influence decision-makers, improve health outcomes, tackle food poverty, align services and funding to better support EDC, strengthen EDC-led organisations.

Services include:

• Knowledge Forums: regular events that bring people from all backgrounds together

• Educational events: at key times of the year, e.g. Black History Month, Hate Crime Awareness Week.

• Brave Spaces: cross-cultural conversations to help us build back better.

• Bring together key NHS, social care and other partners to improve the services our communities receive.

• We can represent ethnically diverse communities in Stockport to the Council, the Mayor, GMCA, our MP, the NHS and others.

How to access:

You can drop into our EDP Advice hub every Tuesday

Please contact us via phone or email if you need our help or know of someone who needs our help. Also if you would like to work with us, have a project you would like to collaborate on or if you would like to volunteer with us and help your local ethnically diverse community.

​If you need culturally appropriate support and advice when facing systemic racism and are a resident of Stockport then please get in touch.

If you are an organisation in Stockport that needs to better support ethnically diverse people thrive to make your company more inclusive and less institutionally racist then please get in touch too.

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