Find Services

The Digital Inclusion project aims to help vulnerable migrants and refugees to get closer to employment and further education.

Beneficiaries come from across Greater Manchester to join online sessions and face-to-face at our central Manchester classrooms.

This project is targeted at learners with very low levels of English (hard-to-reach target groups) and individuals with poor digital skills.

Teachers and volunteers provide intensive individual support to help learners increase their levels of confidence and be able to move forward in the digital space.

How to access:

For more information please drop-in or email us

If you are interested in joining one of our courses and you are from Hong Kong and are resident of the Manchester area, please get in touch with us.

Classes vary from informal ESOL classes to Ascentis-accredited courses, according to your level. Teachers will help you improve your communication skills and prepare you for exams.

How to access:

Please fill out the self-referral form in the link below, and we'll contact you as soon as possible to set up an appointment, assess your ESOL level, and discuss the other projects or activities you can get involved in within our organisation.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfrZH0-SBJUWcy80yyTMZvWgwYQwiRIRNwsfTd9QdMEIPkY2g/viewform

Order anything from Manchester Libraries’ vast lending collection and pick it up here during the 15 hours we open over 4 days a week. Locals are always popping in – we’re in Victoria Mill Community Centre – to use our internet computers and free wifi. We have a weekly Tiny Tot and Toddler Time Session for babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

We also have board games, a monthly coffee morning and an arts and crafts club for children aged 8 and older.

Services include:

• Books for loan

• Free wifi

• Computer facilities and internet access

• Health information point

• Meeting room to hire

• Printing

• Talking books for loan

There may be a charge for some services see fines and charges

How to access:

Join, search and reserve
https://manchester.spydus.co.uk

Our purpose is to create a space where mental health comes first. We believe that everyone deserves to be supported in their mental health needs and that we have a part to play in that.

We provide free and impartial advice on welfare benefits, debt and housing to people with mental health needs living in Manchester.

How to access:

See services pages of website for details or call our info-line.

Self-referral or referral through others with the individual’s written consent. Call or email to arrange an initial chat with our Peer Support Development Workers:

Tel: 0161 769 5732

(or)

Email: info@manchestermind.org

Mind in Salford is an independent, user focused charity providing vital services to make a positive difference to the wellbeing and mental health of local people.

Service includes:

• Welfare Rights & Debt Advice: We provide free, independent, impartial and confidential advice for adults in Salford who are registered with a Salford GP and who have a mental health condition.
• Independent Care Act Advocacy (ICAA) to eligible clients in Salford (including Care Act Carers Advocacy)
• Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) in Meadowbrook, Woodlands and Prestwich Hospitals and associated services
• Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy (IMCA) in Salford.
• Independent NHS Complaints Advocacy (ICA) in Salford.

How to access:

Call our info-line or head to the website.

Together we are stronger. We believe that no one should face mental health problems alone, which is why in addition to working with national Mind we are also one of five local Minds that work across Greater Manchester.

Service includes:

• Information & Signposting Helpline: Whether you are experiencing mental health difficulties yourself, or are looking for information to support a family member, friend or neighbour, you can contact our helpline.

• Carers Support Service: For carers of adults who are diagnosed with a mental health problem, autism or who are experiencing emotional distress. If you provide emotional and/or practical mental health support to a relative, friend or neighbour who could not manage without your help, you may be able to receive support as a Carer.

• Carers Drop-in: For more information and to sign up, please get in touch via phone or email

• Singing for Fun: our singing group enables users to build confidence, have fun and gain access to valuable information and services. Hot and cold drinks and biscuits are provided during the session.

• Thursday at One Art Group: The group encourages services users to express themselves using their creativity to turn their hand at a number of different forms of art

How to access:

If you would like to get involved in any of our groups please email or call us.

You can phone us and speak directly to a staff member, during the opening hours . Please be aware that our phone lines are not monitored outside of our opening hours.

If this is Manchester’s coolest local library it’s because the local teenagers who use it also designed it. The interior is filled with vibrant, bold colours, furnishings and fabrics, a perfect setting for picking up a book or using our free wifi.

Based in a purpose built youth centre and offering a range of graphic novels, teen fiction, and books for young mums and dads. This library also values people of all ages. The knitting group and the raised-bed community garden out the back are for all to enjoy.

Services include:

• Books for loan including other languages: Somali

• CDs for loan

• Free wifi

• Computer facilities and internet access

• Employment and training advice

• Exhibition space

• Health information point

• Meeting room to hire

• Newspapers and magazines

• Printing and photocopying

There may be a charge for some services see fines and charges

How to access:

Join, search and reserve
https://manchester.spydus.co.uk

Mustard tree runs a community shop in Ancoats, offering access to low cost food through the food club, clothing and household essentials such as furniture, white goods and pots and pans.

Here, people seeking asylum can get free clothing up to a value of £15 a month.

How to access:

For more information, please call or email

Mustard tree runs a community shop in Eccles, offering access to low cost food through the food club, clothing and household essentials such as furniture, white goods and pots and pans.

Here, people seeking asylum can get free clothing up to a value of £15 a month.

How to access:

For more information, please call or email

Mustard tree runs a community shop in Little Hulton, offering access to low cost food through the food club, clothing and household essentials such as furniture, white goods and pots and pans.

Here, people seeking asylum can get free clothing up to a value of £15 a month.

How to access:

For more information, please call or email

Mustard Tree is a charity working with Manchester City Council to help people who are refugees.

We have a safe, warm space where you can visit to get information and advice on housing, employment, benefits, and money management.
Service includes:

• Face-to-face appointments

• Information and advice on housing options

• Help with managing finances

• Help with finding work

• Information on other services

How to access:

Drop-in or submit a referral form on the website to register for services like Food Club and hear more about clubs, classes and the Freedom Project (life-skills and employability training placements).

For self referrals and client referrals, please complete a referral form via: https://mustardtree.org.uk/get-help/ and email to referrals@mustardtree.org.uk, or call 0161 228 7331

Apply for help from National Zakat Foundation. If you’re a Muslim in need of support, Zakat given through NZF may be able to help.

You can get help in these three areas:

• Hardship Relief Fund- The Hardship Relief Fund provides cash grants towards monthly expenses, such as food and clothing, to help vulnerable Muslims in the UK who are unable to pay for basic living costs.

• Housing- This fund offers grants to help Muslims in the UK who need support to live in affordable, liveable and safe accommodation.

• Empowerment- The Empowerment Programme provides grants and tailored support to Muslims in the UK, helping them gain essential skills, qualifications, and employment opportunities.

How to access:

Whether you need support, need help with your understanding and calculating your Zakat or have a general enquiry, we’re here to help.

If you need any assistance with the application form, please email ask@nzf.org.uk

Breakfast Club runs every Wednesday from 9:30-11:30 am: Free hot breakfast for anyone who would like to come and join us rather than sit at home alone, or needs a warm place in the cold winter months.

The 'Thursday Feast' runs from 4-6pm: Free 2 course cooked meal for everyone in need of support, company or a warm space and socialising.

Tameside East Food Bank runs on Thursdays, from 1-3pm. New Life Centre is a Trussell Trust Food Bank Distribution Centre based on referrals from agencies and vouchers being presented at the time of parcel collection.

How to access:

Drop ins welcome for our food bank. Information on activities running is available via our Events Calender: https://www.newlifetameside.org.uk/whats-on/events/

You can get anything from Manchester Libraries’ vast lending collection delivered here to Nuthurst Road, just off Broadway. If you don’t fancy the latest blockbuster, why not try Byron’s poetry - the great poet’s ancestors were once neighbours of ours when Moston Hall stood nearby. Our volunteers make sure we have regular events and there’s free wifi and internet computers with reading groups and children’s activities.

Services include:

• Books for loan

• Free wifi

• Computer facilities and internet access

• Health Information Point

• Printing

• Talking books for loan

There may be a charge for some services see fines and charges

How to access:

Join, search and reserve
https://manchester.spydus.co.uk

New Roots is a safe and friendly group for refugees and people seeking asylum. We are growing new roots in a new place, finding community and strength together.

Building community, supporting each other, learning, relaxing, and getting creative.

This service is free to attend. Friday mornings twice a month, at Stretford Public Hall.

How to access:

For more information please email us

NHS Bury Talking Therapies is for people over the age of 16 years, who are registered with a GP in Bury.

We offer support and treatment if you're experiencing symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, low mood, stress, worry or anxiety, feelings of low self worth or panic attacks.

We can also help you to cope with the effects of a long-term health problem or chronic pain, post natal depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias, eating difficulties and post traumatic stress reactions.

Our service is delivered by a range of professionals including therapists and counsellors, who will find a level of treatment that is right for you.

We also provide specialist support for those experiencing post-natal depression and for those with long term health conditions.

How to access:

Complete this self-referral form: https://www.iaptportal.co.uk/ServiceUser/SelfReferralForm.aspx?sd=41996d9a-373d-4aa9-925f-806ddcece1ea

Alternatively, you can speak to your GP or other health or care professional.

NHS Oldham Talking Therapies is for people over the age of 16 years, who are registered with a GP in Oldham.

We offer support and treatment if you're experiencing low mood, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief, and sleep difficulties.

We can help you deal with the effects of a long-term health condition, chronic pain, or post natal depression, We also offer couples therapy if you are struggling in your relationships, and psychosexual therapy for any intimacy difficulties.

Everyone who wishes to access the service will be invited to seminars to introduce the service and explain what we can offer, as well as learning strategies and techniques to use while waiting for treatment.

How to access:

Complete this self-referral form: https://www.iaptportal.co.uk/ServiceUser/SelfReferralForm.aspx?sd=d1691d22-8524-41cd-9a8e-405d6b2b035e

NHS Stockport Talking Therapies is for people over the age of 16 years, who are registered with a GP in Stockport.

We can help you to improve your emotional wellbeing in a safe, compassionate space, if you’re experiencing problems such as:

• low mood or depression

• anxiety disorders

• stress

• panic attacks

• sleep problems

• obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

• phobias

• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• We can also help you to manage the emotional impact of a long-term physical health problem, or chronic pain.

How to access:

Complete this self-referral form: https://www.iaptportal.co.uk/ServiceUser/SelfReferralForm.aspx?sd=0bcede30-1519-4d6b-a140-2a65658ae67b

If our service is right for your needs, we will offer you an assessment to see how our team of therapists and counsellors can help you to manage these feelings and symptoms.

Following your assessment, you may be offered our workshops, groups and online cognitive behavioural therapy. If these aren’t suitable for you we can also discuss one-to-one treatment options

NHS Tameside and Glossop Talking Therapies is for people over the age of 16 years, who are registered with a GP in Tameside or Glossop.

We offer a safe place and time to talk to someone who won’t judge you.

You might want to make sense of things or understand yourself better, resolve complicated feelings or recognise unhelpful patterns on how you act or feel.

We can help with:

• Depression and low mood

• Anxiety and worry

• Panic

• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Pre and post natal difficulties

• Social anxiety

• Phobias

• Long term health conditions

How to access:

You can access the NHS Talking Therapies service by completing this self referral form: https://www.iaptportal.co.uk/ServiceUser/SelfReferralForm.aspx?sd=cf125c66-c9bb-4b5a-b642-963d989045ff

Nightstop Greater Manchester and Cheshire East places young people aged 16-25 in the homes of volunteer hosts.

We are an emergency accommodation service delivered by Depaul UK and covers Greater Manchester and Cheshire East.

Nightstop hosts provide a private room, a warm meal and somewhere safe to stay for the night, whilst Nightstop helps to find a permanent solution to a young person’s homelessness.

How to access:

If you are a young person in need of somewhere safe to stay tonight call us between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Since we opened, the light-converting panels on our roof and south wall have generated enough energy to power a street of 3-bed houses for 35 years. We share this dramatic and inspirational building – with North Manchester Sixth Form College and our stunning, modern atrium entrance now welcomes the whole community. Come and immerse yourself.

Services include:

• Books for loan including other languages: Polish

• Business information zone

• CDs for children for loan

• Free wifi

• Computer facilities and internet

• DVDs for loan

• Fax facility

• Health information point

• Local studies collection

• Meeting room to hire

• Newspapers and magazines

• Printing and photocopying

• Reading group

• Talking books for loan

• Visually impaired people unit

How to access:

Join, search and reserve
https://manchester.spydus.co.uk

Thanks to our volunteers we’re open 18 hours a week so you can order from Manchester Libraries’ vast lending collection of books. We’re now based at St. Wilfrid's Church Hall and there’s something for everyone here, including weekly story times for children and a monthly book-club.

Free I.T access is available using public laptops. Unfortunately, there are no printing facilities. Other libraries that do offer this service are Didsbury, Brooklands and Forum.

Services include:

• Books for loan

• Free wifi

There may be a charge for some services fines and charges

How to access:

Join, search and reserve
https://manchester.spydus.co.uk

We support with asylum applications, e-visa, travel documents, citizenship, indefinite leave, Domestic Violence and other. We also provide employment, welfare and benefits support, digital training and all assisted digital support, ESOL classes, arts and crafts and many other classes and course, pre employment accredited courses, Cohesion events- work from 12 venues across north Manchester.

How to access:

Give us a call

The Oldham Bethel Food Club is a food security programme. 

How to access:

Membership is available for the food club by filling out an application form and paying a once-a-year membership fee of £5. This enables the member to “shop” at our food club.

The shopping fee of £3 provides between 12-15 of food items.

Membership for Bethel’s Food Club is open. You may request a membership form by emailing info@oldhambethelchurch.org.uk or drop by on a Food Club Saturday to fill out a membership form.

We focus on speaking, listening, reading and writing skills and also work on grammar, spelling and pronunciation. In addition we run specific courses at Level 1, combining ESOL with Hair and Beauty, Health and Social Care and Construction.

We also offer an Introduction to Asylum Seekers as a part-time course. ESOL courses are delivered during the day and evening at various times. We also offer specific courses in maths for ESOL learners.

How to access:

Please call or email us for more information

Get Oldham Working is a Council service that aims to help people find work and training opportunities.

Services include:

• Help if you are long-term unemployed or have limited recent work experience.

• Personal learning mentors to assist you with improving your job prospects

• Help with writing CVs and making job applications

• Help with getting a better job that makes the most of your skills

• Information about local jobs and training opportunities, including jobs fairs and other recruitment events

• A register you can join if you are seeking work.

How to access:

Complete the registration form on our website: https://www.oldham.gov.uk/forms/form/325/en/get_oldham_working_registration_form

The Oldham Homelessness service helps people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. They provide support to individuals and families in need, ensuring they have a safe place to live. The service works with various organisations, including charities, local councils, and housing providers, to find solutions for those in crisis.

In addition, the service offers information about housing options and rights. They also run prevention programmes to help people stay in their homes, such as mediation services for those facing disputes with landlords. Overall, the aim of the Oldham Homelessness service is to prevent homelessness and support people in finding stable and secure housing in the community.

How to access:

Contact by phone, email or complete and online referral platform: https://gm-ca.org/referral/FormPage.aspx

The Housing Options service will contact the applicant within 48 hours to offer them advice and, if required, an appointment to come and see a Housing Advisor.

We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.

Our foodbank works using a voucher referral system.

Visiting a Foodbank: To access

Our foodbank works with a number of different agencies, such as Citizens Advice, children’s centres and health visitors. To find out more about the agencies that hold our vouchers and how you can get help, please contact us.

When you visit or call a referral agency they will take some basic details from you to complete the voucher.

Once you have been issued a voucher, you will receive 7 days of emergency food delivered to your address from Oldham Foodbank, or can redeem your voucher at Shaw & Crompton Churches Together.

Locations:

1) Shaw & Crompton Churches Together (OL2 8QY)
2) Oldham Foodbank (OL1 4ER) - no collection from this centre, only delivery*

Contact us:

Please complete this form to get in touch: https://oldham.foodbank.org.uk/contact-us/

Please phone the Crisis Hub on 0161 770 7007, or your case/key/social worker (if you have one) - who can assist with issuing a voucher for a food parcel.

We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK.

Our foodbank works using a voucher referral system.

Visiting a Foodbank: To access

Our foodbank works with a number of different agencies, such as Citizens Advice, children’s centres and health visitors. To find out more about the agencies that hold our vouchers and how you can get help, please contact us.

When you visit or call a referral agency they will take some basic details from you to complete the voucher.

Once you have been issued a voucher, you will receive 7 days of emergency food delivered to your address from Oldham Foodbank, or can redeem your voucher at Shaw & Crompton Churches Together.

Locations:

1) Shaw & Crompton Churches Together (OL2 8QY)
2) Oldham Foodbank (OL1 4ER) - no collection from this centre, only delivery*

Contact us:

Please complete this form to get in touch: https://oldham.foodbank.org.uk/contact-us/

Please phone the Crisis Hub on 0161 770 7007, or your case/key/social worker (if you have one) - who can assist with issuing a voucher for a food parcel.

Our service is confidential, non-judgemental and for people of all ages, genders, and orientations.

We provide free and confidential sexual health services. This includes information and advice on all types of contraception, STI testing and treatment.

We offer most forms of contraception and screening for sexually transmitted infections, particularly if you have no symptoms and need a check up. If you have symptoms get in touch with us for an appointment at one of our hubs, or call into one of our sit and wait sessions.

How to access:

Drop-in (or) book an appointment through our website (or) call us

We are an Adult Education provider (19 years and older) and offer English as a Second Language to residents across the borough in order to help learners to improve their English language.

Services include:

Oldham Lifelong Learning Service offer a range of vocational and non-vocational provision at Pre Entry, Entry 1, Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1.

Learners can work towards the Ascentis Award in ESOL Speaking & Listening, Award in ESOL Reading and Award in ESOL Writing across the academic year.

Courses are either one or two classes per week. Courses are four mornings or four afternoons per week. The provision is offered to Pre Entry, Entry 1 and Entry 2 learners who are actively looking for work.

How to access:

You can access this service via GM ESOL website or Job Centre coach.

All applications are processed through the centralised GM ESOL Service website - https://gmesol.org/take-a-test/. You will then be invited for an initial assessment on site at one of our campuses and placed on the waiting list.

Job Centre Plus learners can be referred for an initial assessment via their work coach by contacting Margaret Manning on 0161 770 1531.

We are an Adult Education provider (19 years and older) and offer English as a Second Language to residents across the borough in order to help learners to improve their English language.

Fully accredited IAA (formerly ESOL) qualification from Entry 1 to Level 1 in speaking, listening, reading and writing. You can learn and practice skills needed for work.

Some courses offer an award in Employability.

How to access:

You can access this service via GM ESOL website or Job Centre coach.

All applications are processed through the centralised GM ESOL Service website - https://gmesol.org/take-a-test/. You will then be invited for an initial assessment on site at one of our campuses and placed on the waiting list.

Job Centre Plus learners can be referred for an initial assessment via their work coach by contacting Margaret Manning on 0161 770 1531.

We are an Adult Education provider (19 years and older) and offer English as a Second Language to residents across the borough in order to help learners to improve their English language.

Fully accredited IAA (formerly ESOL) qualification from Entry 1 to Level 1 in speaking, listening, reading and writing. You can learn and practice skills needed for work.

Some courses offer an award in Employability.

How to access:

You can access this service via GM ESOL website or Job Centre coach.

All applications are processed through the centralised GM ESOL Service website - https://gmesol.org/take-a-test/. You will then be invited for an initial assessment on site at one of our campuses and placed on the waiting list.

Job Centre Plus learners can be referred for an initial assessment via their work coach by contacting Margaret Manning on 0161 770 1531.

Organic Soul Food supports the homeless with hot food provision, clothing, sleeping bags and other vital items, signposting people to appropriate services and advocating on their behalf.

Services include:

• Food bank, soup kitchen and community cohesion

• Carry out soup runs in the Manchester area to address issues caused by homelessness

• Give practical outreach support to people who are homeless or on low incomes in the Manchester area

• Our team goes into the city centre serving hot food, and hot drinks and making new friendships

• Also deliver food parcels and other essential items to those in need in Bury.

• Organising regular events throughout the year with different communities from different faiths or no faith, different cultures and backgrounds, working to building stronger communities.

How to access:

Email referral

At Manchester Women's Aid, we have a partnership with Manchester City Council to help deliver programmes of support for families seeking help in refuge.

Our Children and Young People’s Service consists of a team of therapeutic play specialists offering a range of services for children and young people between the ages of 0-18 years, that enable and support their recovery from domestic abuse and violence.

Service includes:

• Early Years Groupwork- designed for children under 5 years old and their parent

• Healing Together- This course is for children aged 5-10 years old

• Living Life to the Full- This course is for CYP aged 11-17 years old and

• You, Me and Mum- This course is for mothers, and it explores the effects of domestic abuse on women as mothers and on children and young people.

• Open Play sessions in Refuge
• Heuristic Play
• 1:1 Play Therapy

• Trips Out

How to access: Is this referral for yourself or someone else?

(1) This referral is for someone else:

If you are an agency making a referral for a client, we cannot accept this without a referral form. Please email referrals@manchesterwomensaid.org instead and we will send you a different referral form

(2) This referral is for me:

Please continue with the form by clicking NEXT: https://www.manchesterwomensaid.org/get-help-form

Need help? If you need support filling in the form or have any questions about the support we provide, please call our helpline on 0161 660 7999.

Manchester Women’s Aid provides services so that domestic abuse survivors can live a life free from the fear of domestic violence and abuse.

Our helpful staff will listen to you and be able to point you in the right direction: whether fleeing domestic abuse is the most appropriate course of action or whether you can be supported in the community with outreach services.   

Calling the helpline or reaching out with an email is a hugely important step and we understand that every situation is unique. Our helpline staff will be understanding and give you advice on safety planning, point you to benefits advice and other resources.   

How to access:

You can call 0161 660 7999 or email referrals@manchesterwomensaid.org on Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm

Manchester Women’s Aid has six refuges and four dispersed properties across Manchester catering for up to 38 families in crisis. We will help in any way we can to facilitate a move-on to permanent housing.

In our ASHA refuge, we can offer accommodation to 3 single women with No Recourse to Public Funds and unsettled immigration status.

Service includes:

• Support groups

• Access the refuge user-directed Move On Health & Wellbeing programme

• Receive signposting to partner services e.g. to family and/or immigration solicitors

• Support to access Children’s Centres/local colleges/community groups and to attend external courses linked to employment, training and education.

How to access: Is this referral for yourself or someone else?

(1) This referral is for someone else:

If you are an agency making a referral for a client, we cannot accept this without a referral form. Please email referrals@manchesterwomensaid.org instead and we will send you a different referral form

(2) This referral is for me:

Please continue with the form by clicking NEXT: https://www.manchesterwomensaid.org/get-help-form

Need help? If you need support filling in the form or have any questions about the support we provide, please call our helpline on 0161 660 7999.

The women’s drop-in at the Pankhurst Centre on a Wednesday from 12-2 pm welcomes women of all ages and backgrounds.

It’s your chance to pop in, free of charge, to a relaxed, friendly environment to meet new friends and have fun.

As well as a delicious and nutritious vegetarian lunch, you can enjoy wellbeing workshops, creative activities and talks and discussions.

There is a family law advice clinic on alternate weeks and a Shelter and Housing Benefits adviser once a month.

How to access:

Drop-in

Call or email us for more information

Pathways to Work is a project providing pre-employment support to refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable migrants across England. This is a digital service and all your sessions will be delivered via Microsoft Teams/ Zoom (the video meeting service).

Services include:

• An eight-week employability group programme

AND/OR

• 1-2-1 employment support.

You will need:

The ability to communicate in English without an interpreter. Your English level needs to be Entry 3 upwards. We can assess your English language level if you are unsure.

Employment-related aspirations or goals (for example, you want to get a job, work experience, start a training course, explore further education or secure a volunteering opportunity)

How to access:

Complete self-referral form online: https://www.refugee-action.org.uk/pathways-to-work-self-referral-form/

A free swimming initiative aiming to give immigrant males 14+ an accessible, supportive activity targeting inclusion, mental/physical health, and a confidence boost.

Whilst also opening future opportunities and career paths.

The number of participants will be 30, completing 1-hour sessions 5 days a week.

Swimming will help teach them life-saving skills, provide them with social inclusion in the local community, and help them reduce stress through exercise.

How to access:

Call or email for more information

We take old bikes, clean them up and then our volunteers and groups of young people fix them, gaining AQA qualifications in the process. The newly-refurbished bikes are then donated to local families, used in conjunction with the Transport for Greater Manchester or sold with all profits being churned directly back into the Positive Cycles project to buy better equipment and parts.

The workshop is also used by the Oldham Youth Justice Service as part of the unpaid community work of young offenders. The young people are involved in cleaning and fixing donated bikes and making sure they are roadworthy and ready to be resold. In doing this they gain valuable experience and qualifications. We also offer AQA-accredited Bike Maintenance courses to individuals and groups.

How to access:

If you would like to donate an old bike, or purchase a refurbished bike, please get in touch.

Primus Solicitors is an established, niche law firm specialising in UK Immigration and nationality law. We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We also deal with Family law matters, personal injury, civil litigation and debt matters. We also specialise in human rights cases involving ECHR articles and their breaches.

Services include:

• UK Partner Visas

• British Citizenship

• Indefinite Leave to remain (ILR)

• UK Visit Visas

• Appeals

• Immigration Judicial Review

• Asylum applications

• Human Rights applications

• Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery cases

• Immigration Bail

• Deportation

How to access:

Please call or email us for more information

Book your appointment today via: https://primussolicitors.com/contact-2/

The Blossom Project stands as an unwavering beacon of empowerment for refugee women. With a resolute commitment to fostering their growth and self-discovery, we transcend stereotypes and limitations, guiding these remarkable individuals towards a future defined by resilience, creativity, and renewed hope.

Through a kaleidoscope of self-expression avenues, from artistic crafts to cultural exchanges, cooking events to sustainability initiatives, we pave the path for them to embrace their narratives, shatter misconceptions, and flourish against all odds.

Blossom is not just a project; it is a testament to the strength and potential inherent in every refugee woman, igniting a transformation that resonates far beyond their personal journeys.

How to access:

For more information about events and workshops please check our social media: @blossomenactus on Instagram.

Advice and casework drop-in for refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants. On our drop-in days you can also join our English classes, ask for IT skills support, have a hot drink and meet other people take part in activities, and enjoy a hot lunch.

Social space with activities, lunch, and creche. Food and toiletries, cash payments, bus fares, support to move out of destitution for those with no access or entitlement to other support.

An NHS Mental Health practitioner from the Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies service attends Rainbow Haven once a week to deliver a clinic (by appointment only and only available for those registered with a GP in Manchester borough).

How to access:

Access by drop-in, referrals, self referrals.

IAPT Mental health support is by appointment only.

Rainbow Haven have a variety of activities including:

• ESOL
• Digital skills

• Well-being activities
• Mother and baby groups
• Gardening
• Volunteering opportunities
• Refugee and mentors led work and skills club

How to access:

To learn more about our classes and clubs, please email info@rainbowhaven.org.uk and we’ll get you signed up.

Rainbow Noir is a volunteer-led social group, we celebrate, elevate and advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and Intersex People of Colour (LGBTQI PoC).

We are committed to creating a space of our own, places to feel safe, where LGBTQI people of colour can meet, hang out, form friendships and find community. We facilitate a bi-monthly social space in person and a lively WhatsApp group chat.

The group is a space for socializing, discussions, activism, community organizing and ensuring a presence and that LGBTQI people of color’s voices are heard in Manchester.

How to access:

Contact us through the form on our website.

RAPAR (Refugee and Asylum Participatory Action Research) is a human rights organisation based in Manchester, UK, which is primarily concerned with displaced people, and issues relating to displaced people.

Our casework very often involves us using our interpretation and translation skills to enable communication, for instance in the following areas:

• Deportation

• Education

• Employment

• Family Reunion

• Financial hardship

• Health

• Housing and Destitution

• Learning opportunities

• Volunteering opportunities

How to access:

Call us to make an appointment or leave a message on our website.

Offices are wheelchair accessible

REACHE North West carries out training and offers pastoral support, provides facilities for study and runs additional projects for Refugee Healthcare Professionals (RHPs).

All classes are free for REACHE North West members. In addition, members have access to a number of resources to support their studies:

Services include:

• Pastoral Support
• English Support
• Medical Examination Preparation
• Tutor Support
• Work Placements

How to access:

If you meet the requirements and would like to enquire about joining REACHE, please enquire about membership via: https://reache.org.uk/app/register/

(OR)

Email reache@manchester.ac.uk

We are dedicated to improving the lives of those in our community and provide emergency clothing support and more to those who need it the most.

The REEL Rack, provided clothing & essential items to those who need a helping hand during a difficult time.

How to access:

Contact us via email

Our Asylum Crisis Project works with asylum seekers, refused asylum seekers and those seeking to claim asylum, who are based in Greater Manchester, to understand their entitlements to accommodation and support, to access that support and to challenge barriers to that support, through advocacy, appeals and legal challenge.

Asylum Crisis also seeks to ensure that the support provided is suitable and adequate for the needs of our clients. Asylum Crisis strives to ensure our clients are aware of and able to access a range of services including legal advice, health and social care, education, community groups, charitable support social and well-being opportunities.

How to access:

Please contact by phone, email or webform: https://www.refugee-action.org.uk/project/asylum-crisis-project-2/ to refer yourself or others.

No drop-in available

Refugee Aid (Chorlton) is a charity based in South Manchester. We are all volunteers and work with partner organisations to provide a range of practical items for asylum seekers and refugees across Greater Manchester.

We deliver to the client directly. What we can provide for your clients:

• Good quality (sometimes new) upcycled items for adults, children and babies covering:
• Clothes, shoes, new underwear and socks
• New toiletries
• Small toys, games, DVDs, craft materials and stationery for school/college aged pupils
• Baby equipment e.g. pram, buggy, stroller, Moses basket filled with clothes, toys, sling and new born nappies, bath
• Bikes, with lock & helmet, and scooters. We also provide mechanical help for clients who have a bike that we have provided.

How to access:

Referral only from registered partner agencies.

Referrals come to us from 5 main sources, Manchester Refugee Support Network, M/c City of Sanctuary, Rainbow Haven, Serco and Refugee Action for the refugees and asylum seekers placed in rooms and those who have been already housed in rented accommodation across Greater Manchester.

The Refugee Council’s Children’s Panel provides advice and support to separated (unaccompanied) children and young people seeking asylum. The Children’s Panel is funded by the Home Office but we are a fully independent organisation and provide independent advice.

The Children's Advisor, can offer:

• Advice about the asylum process and related matters to separated children and professionals involved. All Children’s Advisors are registered with the IAA (formerly OISC) at Level 1.

• Advocacy for the young person in the form of acting as appropriate/responsible adult during meetings and interviews (e.g LAC reviews, Home office interviews, age assessments).

• Referrals to other services (e.g immigrations/welfare solicitors, Red Cross family tracing, social clubs).

• A means of linking up different professionals involved in the care and support of separated asylum seeking children and young people.

How to access:

Make a referral through the helpline - 0207 346 1134

Young people can contact the freephone helpline 0808 175 3499 or message via Whatsapp 07888 866 615

Paper referral form available for professionals on request.

Infoline is a source of information and support for people seeking asylum.

What is this service? Our team can provide information and support on many topics, including:

• Services who offer help and what they do

• How to find out about the asylum system

• How to find immigration advice

• Getting Home Office housing and financial support (asylum support)

• Problems with Home Office housing and financial support

• What to do if you are asked to leave Home Office accommodation

• Your rights and entitlements

Who can use this service:

• Adults seeking asylum in England
• Adults living in Home Office accommodation in England who have received a decision on their asylum claim.

How to access:

Please call us or use the contact form via: https://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/get-help/infoline/

My View is a talking therapy service aiming to stabilise and improve the psychological and emotional well-being of separated asylum-seeking children.

What we offer:

• Up to 8-12 one to one therapy sessions - face to face or remote.

• Psycho-social groups

• Creative Wellbeing Techniques

• Psychoeducational workshops for clients upon request (i.e. sleep hygiene, trauma, drug awareness)

• One off 3 crisis sessions

• Workshops for social workers, foster carers, teachers, mental health services and other mainstream service providers (upon request, within our strategic areas) to raise awareness regarding the specific needs of young refugees.

• We can offer support in remote locations

How to access:

Referrals via the form on our website.

Refugee Legal Support works in solidarity with people who migrate. We advocate for the promotion and protection of people’s rights throughout the migration process.

We can support with:

• Family reunification with a family member in the UK; and

• Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy (ARAP) applications where the applicant is in Afghanistan or the surrounding region.

How to access:

If you would like to register your case in the event we can assist in the future, please complete the client registration form below – please note we cannot consider queries which have not completed a form: https://refugeelegalsupport.org/legal-info/for-people-from-afghanistan/

You can find more information in our FAQs and self-help guides, available in multiple languages.

Refugees at Home is a UK charity which connects those with a spare room in their home to refugees and people seeking asylum who are in need of somewhere to stay.

We recruit and support volunteer hosts who are willing to offer a temporary home and a helping hand.  Our role is to carefully match each guest and host, to assess and prepare them ready for hosting, to advise on hosting arrangements and accommodation, and to provide ongoing support to hosts throughout each stay.

Who we can help:

We may be able to arrange for short-term, temporary accommodation with one of our volunteer hosts if you-

• Have refugee status

• Have leave to remain

• Are actively engaged in the asylum process (OR)

• Are hoping to come to the UK under the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme

How to access:

Referral via website - https://refugeesathome.org/help-and-information/referrer-application-guide/

You can also apply directly to us if you have refugee status in the UK. Please read our Guest application guide and fill in the application at the end of the guidance via: https://refugeesathome.org/help-and-information/self-referred-guests/

Free short courses and workshops offering pre-employment information and guidance for people recently arrived in the UK, often learning English.

We encourage and support learners to take small steps to improve their employment prospects. To support people to do this, we offer follow up appointments and work closely with other services.

These are the courses and workshops usually offered at Rainbow Haven in Gorton for half a day each week:

• Pre-employment (6 weeks)

• Job Applications and Interview Skills (3 weeks)

• Learning English (3 weeks)

• CV (workshop)

How to access:

If you would like to find out more about courses or workshops email info@refmentors.org.uk

The Work Club offers employment-related information, guidance and support for refugees, vulnerable migrants and people seeking asylum who live in the area of Manchester Local Authority.

Together we offer:

• Information and guidance, including; volunteering, finding and applying for jobs, career routes, education and training, recognition of overseas qualifications, learning English and developing individual learning and career plans.

• Digital skills appointments in English and Arabic.

To Access:

This service is offered remotely through phone and video appointments and through a drop in. Please contact info@refmentors.org.uk to find out more.

This project started in 2013 when Pioneer Minister Ed Leavy believed God was calling him to start a ministry for the homeless of Stockport.

After being told there were no homeless in Stockport by officials, Ed & his team set up a soup kitchen style operation in an empty car park in the middle of Stockport.

The first week 5 people turned up, the following week 50 & these numbers continued to grow until we were offered to set up our operation in several different locations eventually outgrowing all of them due to demand.

Services include:

• We distribute: Clothes, bedding, tents, sleeping bags & emergency food parcels when needed

• We provide: Advocacy and advice for refugees and asylum seekers in Stockport

• We help: We work with local statutory and voluntary organisations to help the homeless into accommodation

• We partner: We work with other charities to provide mental health support and skill building activities

How to access:

For more information please call or email us or complete our Contact Form via: https://www.stockportloavesandfishes.org/contact

The Restricted Eligibility Support Service (RESS) is a unique and innovative homelessness prevention and support service. It works with Greater Manchester residents facing immigration-related barriers, helping them to navigate complex systems in order to move on from homelessness, live well and thrive.

RESS is a partnership between the Boaz Trust, Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU) and Booth Centre.

It delivers specialist floating support and immigration advice for people who have restricted eligibility for public funds because of their immigration status and are facing, or are at risk of, homelessness.

How to access:

For more information: https://www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/media/9615/ress-overview.pdf

To make a referral: https://form.jotform.com/230722721343043