Refugee Roots

Refugee Roots is a Christian registered charity based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, that supports asylum seekers and refugees as they build new lives in the UK. The charity is dedicated to creating welcoming spaces through a range of befriending and empowerment initiatives, helping those facing complex challenges to find community, friendship, and practical assistance.

Charity Number

The charity is registered under number 1184098.

Mission and Activities

Refugee Roots aims to provide a warm welcome and ongoing support for refugees and asylum seekers. Its activities include befriending programs, accompanying asylum seekers to appointments, and offering information, advice, and guidance. The organization also runs supportive groups and free English conversation classes to aid integration and personal development.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Refugee Roots adapted its services to continue reaching people in need, offering telephone befriending, English lessons, and helpline support. As restrictions eased, the charity resumed some in-person befriending meetings in socially distanced outdoor settings.

Impact and Community

The charity emphasizes small, meaningful actions such as volunteering, which can significantly impact the lives of its participants. Refugee Roots has been described by beneficiaries as a "family," and individuals express gratitude for the social and emotional support received during difficult times, such as isolation and homelessness.

Governance and Funding

Refugee Roots is overseen by six trustees and supported by approximately 154 volunteers. In the financial year ending June 2023, the charity reported an income of £222,233, including government grants, with expenditures totaling £202,885. No trustees receive payments or benefits from the charity, and there are no employees earning over £60,000.

Recognition and Partnerships

The charity has received funding from sources such as The National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund and collaborates with university societies and community groups to advance its mission.

Refugee Roots continues to focus on relationship-building and practical assistance to create a place of belonging for refugees and asylum seekers in Nottingham and beyond.

[1] https://www.refugeeroots.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5138485/charity-overview [3] https://www.instagram.com/refugeeroots/ [4] https://www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk/projects-we-fund/projects/refugee-roots [5] https://transformingnottstogether.org.uk/whats-new/spotlight-on-refugee-roots