A collective approach to refugee support
In the past, there have been initiatives in Coventry to get key organisations across the city together to address issues of support for refugees and migrants. However, nothing has progressed to the extent needed to truly make change happen. That’s why ACH and Cllr. Kevin Maton from Coventry City Council organised a Roundtable Workshop on 29th January, inviting a range of councillors, charities and refugee organisations.
The aim of the workshop was to start the discussion of how to approach refugee and migrant support from a strategic and collaborative level. Attendees included representatives from Coventry Refugee and Migrant Centre, Coventry City Council, Ashley Community Housing, Carriers of Hope, The Highlife Centre, WATCH Charity and more.
Introductions from Richard Thickpenny gave an overview of Ashley Community Housing, introducing our progression and individualised approach to refugee resettlement and suggesting how we can work together with other organisations in Coventry. Working together can seriously maximise the impact we can make; “Diversity leads to innovation” – David Jepson.
This was followed by the roundtable discussion which gave everyone the opportunity to voice their opinions on refugee support and what issues they face. The discussion included several topics such as language services, funding arrangements, volunteering/career opportunities and housing (amongst others).
With such important matters brought up, it is more important than ever to act upon these. With input from all organisations involved we will be organising another event to discuss more in-depth about the key issues raised and the practicalities of working together to make a difference.
“We need to really think about the actions from today and really try to deliver these actions to help those in need.” – John Wells.
Taking a ‘Collective Impact’ approach to the future of refugee resettlement allows resources, strategies and decisions to be optimised for the benefit of all. If we work towards a vision together, then there is more chance for it to become a reality.
We are spurred on by the success of the initial meeting and would like to say thank you to all attendees who contributed to the discussion.
If your business would like to work with us, contact yasmeen.shaeik@ach.org.uk
