List of local and national organisations that we work with and signpost to accessible here
Part 1: Refugee, Asylum & New Migrant Project’s
Part 2: Broader Voluntary Sector
Part 3: Statutory Agencies
Part 4: Food Parcels, Food, Clothes and Baby Items
Part 5: Health & Counselling Services
Part 6: Education & Volunteering Opportunities
Part 7: Legal Advice and Welfare Reps
Part 1: Refugee, Asylum or New Migrant Projects
Adavu Project
http://www.adavu.org.uk/ info@adavuproject.org
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The Adavu Project aims to facilitate a local response to human trafficking, in the West Midlands and beyond.
ASAP
Studio 11/12, Container City Building, 48 Trinity Buoy Wharf, London, E14 OFN Tel: 0203 716 0284, Fax: 0203 716 0272, Advice Line: 0203 716 0283 (Mon, Wed, Fri 2-4pm) http://www.asaproject.org
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Reduce destitution by helping asylum seekers with respresentation at the Asylum Support Tribunal, London.
ASIRT – Asylum Support and Immigration Resource Team
109 Zellig, Gibb St, Birmingham, B9 4AT Tel: 0121 213 5893 http://www.asirt.org.uk/ admin@asirt.org.uk
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Free, independent advice on immigration, nationality and asylum, following this up through casework, support, appeals representation, and home visits.
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Children and Families Project
Ashley Community Housing
Local Office: ACH, 1st and 2nd Floors, 93 Cape Hill, Smethwick, B66 4SA, Telephone : 0121 565 3384m Fax: 0121 5555 418, Email : infobham@ach.org.uk
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Leading provider of refugee integration and employment services for newly arrived communities in the UK
Asylum Matters
Emma Birks - Campaigns Project Manager - West Midlands Phone: 07557983227
c/o St. Chad's Sanctuary, 72-74 Shadwell St, Birmingham, B4 6HA emma@asylummatters.org
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Working in partnership locally and nationally to improve the lives of refugees and people seeking asylum through social and political change.
Austin Smith House
Martin Newell, Austin Smith House , 96 Ivor Road, Sparkhill, Birmingham, B11 4NX Tel: 0121 772 7933, martin_newell1967@yahoo.co.uk www.passionists-uk.org www.facebook.com/austinsmithhouse T: @JesuXPIPassio
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Community destitution house for refused asylum seeking men.
BARA – Birmingham Asylum and refugee Association
barawms@gmail.com https://barabirminghamunitedkingdom.wordpress.com, +447984 895852 OR 07476 225366
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Our mission is promoting the development of humane, lawful and constructive policies towards refugees and asylum seekers in the UK.
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We meet every 2nd Monday from 11 for the meeting and Healthy Kitchen lunch at 12.
Baobab Women’s Project
c/o Jericho Foundation 196–198 Edward Road. Balsall Heath. Birmingham. B12 9LX
community drop in, Different Centres see website or text 07879 121 052 baobabwomensproject@gmail.com, www.baobabwomensproject.net
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Advice, assistance and awareness raising on immigration, health and housing issues for migrant, asylum seeking and refugee women.
Bearwood Action for Refugees
Leonie bearwoodactionforrefugees@gmail.com
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This is a community group engaging local individuals, groups and schools in helping Syrian refugees through fundraising and awareness-raising activities.
BID Bail for Immigration Detainees
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Bail for Immigration Detainees is an independent charity that exists to challenge immigration detention in the UK. We work with asylum seekers and migrants, in removal centres and prisons, to secure their release from detention.
Bethel Doula Project:
St Johns Church Community Rooms – entrance on Shakespeare St, Sparkhill, B11 4RG. Bus number 6 from City Centre stops very close. Call Julia 07713 113215 for more info. http://www.bethelnetwork.org.uk/doula.php
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The Doula Project works with vulnerable new mothers, especially asylum seekers. 'Doula' refers to a helper who accompanies women around the birth of a child.
BIRCH Community Hosting
birchnetwork@gmail.com, http://birchnetwork.org
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Hosting network of local people, aiming to relieve the destitution of asylum seekers whose support and accommodation from the Home Office has been cut off.
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Befriending for asylum seekers and migrants under 25.
Birmingham LGBT Centre
Specialist service for asylum seekers 0121 643 0821 https://blgbt.org/asylum-seekers/
Our vision is a vibrant, diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community in Birmingham, UK in which individuals can realise their full potential and have equal access to what the city has to offer
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Emotional Support, Specialist advice via UKLGIG, Social Activities, Housing Support
Black Country Women’s Aid
1st Floor Landchard House, Victoria Street , West Bromwich , B70 8HY, Tel: 0121 553 0090, Fax: 0121 525 1155, Email: info@sandwellwomensaid.co.uk, www.blackcountrywomensaid.co.uk
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Provide a range of support for survivors
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Including Salvation Army trafficking support project
British Red Cross
Bradbury House, 7 Lowe Street, Camp Hill, Birmingham, B12, 0ER. 0121 766 5444 http://www.redcross.org.uk/
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Destitution project, Refugee services, Therapeutic massage, Volunteering
Brushstrokes
http://www.fatherhudsons.org.uk/community-projects/brushstrokes/2.htm
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Practical resources to destitute and homeless people, including food, baby products, clothing and other essential items;
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Reaching out into local communities by visiting and befriending, plus community café.
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Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), which also encompasses citizenship, literacy, numeracy and employment skills.
CARAG
http://caragcoventry.weebly.com
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Group based in Coventry which aims to help asylum seekers and refugees in the Midlands region of the UK.
Children’s Society
Unit 614/5f, The Big Peg, 120 Vyse Street, Jewellery Quarter, B18 6NF 0121 643 7400 http://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-we-do/helping-children/our-programmes/young-refugees/west-midlands-young-refugees-project
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Support for families and children with NRPF.
Coventry Refugee & Migrant Centre
15 Bishop Street, Coventry, CV1 1HU. 02476 227 254 http://www.covrefugee.org
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Asylum & immigration advice team, Therapeutic Service project, Settlement & housing project, Women’s & Youth Group
Coventry Migrant Women’s Houses
cmwhouses@gmail.com / cmwh@yahoo.co.uk contact c/o Coventry Peace House. 311 Stoney Stanton Road, CV6 5DS.
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Destitution house for women in Coventry, focus on social change activites and cooperative house ethic.
Coventry Peace House Night Shelter
Beth Ash, 02476 527 114, coventrynightshelter@gmail.com http://coventrypeacehouse.wix.com/coventry-peace-house
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Provide’s emergency bed spaces to migrants and refugees with No Recourse to Public Funds. A hot evening meal, breakfast, storage for bags, and access to washing facilities are provided, and it provides quick access crisis support while people work on longer term solutions.
Docs not Cops
docsnotcopsbrum@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/DocsNotCopsBrum/
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We believe that health care is a human right. Together we want to fight xenophobia, and make the NHS a safe space for all.
Doctors of the World
London clinic at, The People’s Place, 80-92 High Street, Stratford, London, E15 2NE 9.30am til 6pm: 0207 167 5789 Clinic advice line: 0808 1647 686 clinic@doctorsoftheworld.org.uk, 10am to 12 midday, Monday to Friday., If you’re calling from an organisation, please call our clinic office line: 0207 0789 629 https://www.doctorsoftheworld.org.uk
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In the UK, we run clinic and advocacy programmes in London that provide medical care, information and practical support to excluded people such as destitute migrants, sex workers and people with no fixed address
End Deportations Brum
https://www.facebook.com/EndDeportationsBrum/ http://enddeportations.com
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Taking action against deportations in Birmingham and beyond.
Entraide
Chelmsley Wood Baptist Church Centre, Hedingham Grove, Chelmsley Wood, Birmingham, B37 7TP, Tel: 0121 788 1087, Mobile: 0798 551 1062 http://www.entraidecharity.btck.co.uk/
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Support asylum seekers, refugees and migrant workers living in Solihull and the surrounding area in order to facilitate their integration into society.
Fatima House
Fatimahouse@fatherhudsons.org.uk contact co/o Father Hudsons Care, St Georges House, Gerards Way, B46 3FG, 01675 434 000.
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Housing and support for destitute women, taking referrals from British Red Cross, St Chads, Restore, Brushstrokes.
Freedom from Torture
Unit 5, 1st Floor, Caroline Point, 62 Caroline Street, B3 1UF, 0121 314 6825 http://www.freedomfromtorture.org/about/15/5252
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Care for the victims of torture.
Hope Projects
Housing, subsistence funding & Legal, Jericho Foundation, Balsall Heath www.hope-projects.org.uk
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Support for destitute asylum seekers and some migrants.
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Works in close partnership with other local agencies.
Kings Heath Action for Refugees
Rosie Gunn Kingsheathaction@hotmail.com kingsheathcollects.wordpress.com
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We are a group of volunteers have joined together to raise money to collect, source, pack, send and distribute toiletries and other essential items to refugees arriving in Europe.
Kushinga Community Garden
https://kushingablog.wordpress.com kushingacommunitygarden@gmail.com 07848 867 072, based in Selly Oak B29 6AH
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Community garden for asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, local people. Also bike and wellbeing projects.
Lifeline Options
64 Aston Road North, Birmingham, B6 4EA, David Forbes: 0121 359 5435 http://www.lifelineoptions.org.uk/
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Holistic one-to-one service to meet the immigration, welfare and professional needs of asylum seekers and refugees in the West Midlands, and more widely in the UK.
Migrant Voice
Lighthouse West London, 111-117 Lancaster Road, London, W11 1QT info@migrantvoice.org,
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Migrant Voice will transform how migrants are seen and heard in the media: from passive, disempowered and marginalized victims, to makers of their own media content.
Migrant Help
Website: www.asylumhelpuk.org, 3 Stone Road, Birmingham
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Asylum Helpline (Advice): 0808 8010 503
Movement for Justice
http://www.movementforjustice.org
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Building an independent, integrated, mass, youth and student lef civil rights movement
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Support around asylum and detention, especially LGBT cases
NACCOM
Dave Smith, 0161 706 0185, office@naccom.org.uk, https://naccom.org.uk
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No Accommodation network, represent a network of organisations seeking to prevent destitution amongst migrants with no recourse to public funds. Conferences, awareness raising, capacity building, national hosting, housing, shelter projects.
NCADC National Coalition for Anti-Deportation Campaigns
http://www.ncadc.org.uk/toolkit/
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The Campaigning Toolkit is a comprehensive printed and online resource for people at risk of removal, and the groups working to support them.
Project 17
Advice Line on 07701330016 (Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, if there is no answer please leave a message and we will call you back) info@project17.org.uk www.project17.org.uk
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Legal charity working to reduce destitution among migrant children whose parents have no access to benefits because of their immigration status. We work with families experiencing exceptional poverty to improve their access to statutory support under s.17 of the Children Act 1989. Advice Line enables other advisers to access our expertise directly.
Refugee Action
2nd Floor, Cobalt Square, 83 Hagley Road, Birmingham, B16 8QG, Te: 0121 201 3070 http://www.refugee-action.org.uk/refugee-action-birmingham/
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CARE project, for asylum seekers and refugees
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Birmingham asylum guides
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Syrian vunerable persons resettlement project
Refugee and Migrant Centre of the Black Country (RMC)
1st Floor, Roma Parva, 9 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4NB. New office in Jewellery Quarter. Tel: 01902 311 554, Fax: 01902 311 906 http://www.rmcentre.org.uk/home
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Tackle urgent issues and disadvantage among asylum seekers, refugees & migrants and promote long term solutions to the problems they face.
Restore
c/o Jericho Foundation, 196 -198 Edward Road, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 9LX
Tel: 0121 661 4275 http://www.restore-uk.org
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Befriending by local volunteers on a one-to-one basis
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Group activities for men, women and families
Salvation Army
Supporting adult victims of trafficking, NRM referral centre, Connect - Post NRM Survivor Support Service https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/supporting-adult-victims-0
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Contact their confidential referral helpline 0300 3038151, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, if you suspect that you or someone you come across is a potential victim of modern slavery in need of help.
Solihull Welcome
St Augustine’s Church Hall, Homer Road, Contact John Bradley, john.wendy.bradley@virginmedia.comhttp://www.centralsolihullchurches.org.uk/solihull-welcome.html
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Drop-in centre by the Solihull Churches Asylum Seekers Support Group to offer hospitality to Asylum Seekers and Refugees visiting Border and Immigration Agency based at Sandford House in Homer Road, Solihull.
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Wednesdays 11.30am to 3.45pm and Fridays 10.30 to 3.00pm
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Refreshments, conversation with our guests, a limited amount of clothing, toys for children.
STAR - Student Action for Refugees
Birmingham University student support for refugees at the asylum reception centre in the city https://www.guildofstudents.com/studentgroups/societies/star/
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Playscheme
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English Language Club
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Movie Night
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Walking Tours
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Football Club
St Chads Sanctuary (Sister Margaret)
72-74 Shadwell Street, Birmingham, B4 6HA. http://stchadssanctuary.wordpress.com/?s=chad
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Drop in centre for asylum seekers & refugees.
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Open from 10.30-3.30 on weekdays: mon – wed, go for a cup of tea, biscuit and a chat.
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Mini opera with the Welsh National Opera, Thursdays 10-30. 12pm.
The Bike Project
The Old Print Works, 498-506 Moseley Rd, Birmingham B12 9AH https://thebikeproject.co.uk
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We collect second hand bikes, fix them with the help of volunteers and give them to refugees and asylum seekers
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Womens cycling lessons in partnership with British Red Cross
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Part 2: Broader Voluntary Sector / BME Projects
Anawim
Balsall Heath centre, 228 Mary Street, Balsall Heath, Birmingham, B12 9RJ Email: referrals@anawim.co.uk Tel: 0121 440 5296 Send any non casework related queries to admin@anawim.co.uk http://www.anawim.co.uk
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Anawim is a Women's Centre based in Birmingham that provides a holistic service to women across the city. Advice, counselling, support group, caseworker.
Amirah Foundation
249 Ladypool Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham B12 8LF: 0121 572 6821; info@amirahfoundation.org
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Supports homeless and vulnerable women, particularly victims of domestic violence
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Coffee mornings, counselling, short skills-based training courses, irregular children and mother outings/ entertainment
Asian Resource Centre
110 Hamstead Rd, Handsworth, B20 2QS, 0121 523 0580, http://www.asianresource.org.uk/
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Immigration Advice – Wednesday pm
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60+ Coffee Mornings for all nations.
Ashiana Community Project
21 - 25 Grantham Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 1LU, Tel: 0121 687 6767, Fax: 0121 687 6768, Email:info@acpgroup.org.uk http://www.acpgroup.org.uk
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enable the people of Sparkbrook, and the surrounding area, to improve their quality of life by working together in creating opportunities for the community, individuals and families to be the best they can possibly be. Assist, Early Years, Kikit, Sport, Progress, Women, Youth.
Birmingham City Mission
The Clock Tower, 2 Langdon Street, Birmingham, 0121 766 6603, resources@birminghamcitymission.co.ukwww.birminghamcitymission.org.uk
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The BCM Resource Centre distributes essential goods – food, clothing and furniture – to those in need.
Chinese Community Centre
Q-Lorc Resource Centre, 99 Bradford Street, Digbeth, B12 0NS, General enquiries: 0121 685 8510, http://chinesebirmingham.org.uk
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Community development, Business Services, member activities and benefits.
Citizens' Advice Bureau CAB
Ground Floor, Gazette Buildings, 168 Corporation Street, B4 6TF.
370-372 High Street, SMETHWICK, West Midlands, B66 3PJ
Location finder https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/search-for-your-local-citizens-advice/
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Complete advice service for all matters. If you would like to contact your nearest CAB office, call Adviceline: 03444 111 444 available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. It’s usually busiest at the beginning and end of the day. It's not available on public holidays
CRISIS, Together we will end homelessness
Suite 303, Rhubarb, 25 Heath Mill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B9 4AE Contact us: 0121 348 7950 birmingham@crisis.org.uk https://www.crisis.org.uk/get-help/birmingham/
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If you are homeless or at immediate risk of becoming homeless, you can access our services for free.
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We offer education, training and support within hostels, day centres and other venues in Birmingham.
Disability Resource Centre
Information, Health and Wellbeing Centre, Unit 18, Ace Business Park, Mackadown Lane, Kitts Green, Birmingham, B33 0LD, Telephone: 03030 402040 (select option 1 for the switchboard and option 2 for our information, advice and advocacy helpline) E-mail: drc@disability.co.uk https://www.disability.co.uk
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Improving the lives of disabled people
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Advice and advocacy, life skills, health and wellbeing activities, employment, carers debt advice
HomesDirect
https://www.homesdirect.org.uk
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Homes Direct is a scheme to help you to find a housing association property for rent, sale, or shared ownership.
KARIS Neighbourhood Scheme
C/o Church of the Redeemer, Monument Rd, Edgbaston, B16 8UU. 0121 689 6081 http://karisneighbourscheme.org
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Offer practical support, friendship and advocacy in the local community through volunteers.
Ladywood Furniture Project
81 Eyre Street, Springhill, Birmingham, B18 7AD, 0121 455 7133, www.ladywoodfurnitureproject.org
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Quality furniture and white goods recycling organisation
Lisieux Trust
184 Sutton New Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B23 6QU Call Us: 0121 377 7071, info@lisieuxtrust.org.uk
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Disability information and recourse centre, Accommodation, working with others
Maternity Action
52-54 Featherstone Street, London, EC1Y 8RT, 0207253 2288, Adviceline: info@maternityaction.org.uk
https://maternityaction.org.uk
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Maternity Action is the UK’s leading charity committed to ending inequality and improving the health and wellbeing of pregnant women, partners and young children – from conception through to the child’s early years.
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Advice Line and fact sheets.
Nishkam Road
6 Soho Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B21 9BH, Telephone: 0121 515 4229 http://www.ncauk.org
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Health and wellbeing, learning and development, social innovation, arts, culture
Real Junk Food Project Birmingham
• Saving food from waste, volunteering available. We have regular cafés all over the city, Pay As You Feel boutiques, a Pay As You Feel Sharehouse and we run a Pay As You Feel Freegan Box scheme, and ‘popping-up’ at many different events around Birmingham, check our calendar for exact dates and locations’
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Roshni
PO BOX 16775, Birmingham, B21 1HS, 0800 953 9666 - 24 hours 365 days a week. http://roshnibirmingham.org.uk
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South Asian Women’s Refugee for Victims of Domestic Abuse
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Punjabi, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati
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Salvation Army
If you suspect that you or someone you have come across may be an adult victim of modern slavery and in need of help, please contact The Salvation Army’s confidential and anonymous referral helpline on 0800 808 3733 – available 365 days a year, 24/7 with interpretation services where needed.
Spring Housing Association
Registered Office, Hestia House, 22 Old Walsall Road, Birmingham, B42 1DT Tel: 0121 663 1443 Email: info@springhousing.org.uk https://springhousing.org.uk
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To create long term prosperity by investing to prevent homelessness, poverty and social isolation and to inspire and unlock peoples potential
Shelter
Room 30, 2nd Floor, Ruskin Buildings, 191 Corporation Street, B4 6RP 0121 236 6668 www.shelter.org.uk
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Homelessness advice, and support for people living in poor conditioned houses.
Sifa Fireside
48-52 Allcock St, Birmingham, B9 4DY, ASH (Adult Support Hub) 0121 766 1700, theash@sifafireside.co.ukhttps://www.sifafireside.co.uk
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Improving health and inclusion for homeless people in Birmingham
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ASH aims to provide the over 25’s with one stop advice which could help you to maintain your accommodation, improve health and increase aspirations for the future.
ST BASILS
St Basils, Heath Mill Lane, Deritend, Birmingham, B9 4AX, Tel: 0121 772 2483 https://stbasils.org.uk
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Homeless shelter for 16-25 year olds in Birmingham centre Also advice, information and support services to young people aged 13-25 years.
Turn 2 Us
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Charity helping people when time gets tough benefits and grant finder
W.A.I.T.S (Women Acting In Today’s Society) Edgbaston
235 Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 4EJ, 0121 440 1443 (Immigration) https://waitsaction.org
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Domestic abuse, community integration, refuge accommodation.
Part 3: Statutory Agencies / Government Services
Adults and Communities: Birmingham City Council
33b Hubert Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6DX, Tel: 0121 675 6979 acap@birmingham.gov.ukhttps://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/20018/adult_social_care_and_health/115/how_to_contact_us_about_adult_social_care_services_and_support
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Social Service Support for Adults.
Birmingham Forward Steps
Birmingham Community Healthcare, NHS Foundation Trust, Children and Families Division, Moseley Hall Hospital, Birmingham, B13 8JL BirminghamForwardSteps@bhamcommunity.nhs.uk https://bhamforwardsteps.co.uk
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Promoting good child development is at the heart of our model
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Delivering early years health and wellbeing for children aged 0-5 in Birmingham
Birmingham Children’s Services
Third Floor, Zone 16, 1 Lancaster Circus, Birmingham, B4 7DJ, Children’s Advice and Support Service (CASS): Monday to Thursday: 8:45am to 5:15pm, Friday: 8:45am to 4:15pm Telephone: 0121 303 1888 https://www.birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk
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Social Service support and advice for children & families.
Birmingham Home Choice
https://www.birminghamchoice.co.uk
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Birmingham City Council Housing List
Leisure Card / Passport to Leisure
Birmingham City Council, 0121 464 2012, Birmingham.gov.uk/membership
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A Passport To Leisure (PTL) card gives you up to 20% off most activities at our Council-run leisure centres, Wellbeing Centres and swimming pools. The card also gives you discounts at some museums, theatres and other attractions in Birmingham.
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The Leisure Card is a membership and loyalty card. It’s free when you first apply to get a card and you “pay as you go”.
Local welfare provision grant
https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/20017/benefits_and_support/308/help_in_a_short-term_crisis
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Short term help in a crisis
Job Centre Plus:
Birmingham City Jobcentre Plus, 65-77 Summer Row, Ladywood, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom, B3 1LB Telephone: 0845 604 3719 Textphone: 0121 452 8184 https://www.jobcentreguide.co.uk/birmingham-jobcentre
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Job and benefits advice.
Help with Health Costs
http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcosts/Documents/2016/HC1-April-2016.pdf
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Apply for exemption, for free prescriptions, dental and optician care if you’re an asylum seeker.
Home Office
Immigration Enforcement, Sandford House 41 Homer Road Solihull B91 3QJ, Phone: 0121 713 3171 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/contact-details-for-immigration-compliance-and-enforcement-teams/contact-details-for-immigration-compliance-and-enforcement-teams
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Biometric Residence Cards BRPDelivery@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
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Further Submission Unit 0151 2132411
MP’s
http://www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/mps/
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Find your MP, to talk to if administrative delays, or process problems with the Home Office.
Sandwell Council
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Housing, social care, schools
Travel Assist
They are available from Monday to Friday: 7:15am to 5:30pm. Telephone: 0121 303 4955 Email: travelassist@birmingham.gov.uk
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Travel Assist may be able to help with access to and funding for transport for children in Temporary Accommodation that are residing a significant distance from school, but still within the Local Authority.
Part 4: Food Parcels, Funds, Meals, Clothes and Baby Items
Birmingham Central Mosque
Tel: 0121 440 5355 enquiries@centralmosque.org.uk https://centralmosque.org.uk
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Birmingham Central Mosque is nationally known for reference and advocacy of Muslims and Islamic Issues.
GrowBaby, Birmingham Vineyard
Birmingham Vineyard, 174 – 178 Barford Street, Digbeth, B5 7EP; 0121 6221230; 
https://www.birminghamvineyard.com/growbaby
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Baby starter kit for destitute and vulnerable pregnant women inc clothes and equipment.
• Under 5’s Stay and Play group Friday term-time 0930-1130
Foodbanks – Trussell Trust
Bournville, Sparkbrook and Aston & Nechells https://birminghamcentral.foodbank.org.uk
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Up to 3 vouchers for food parcel of two weeks packaged food.
Fund for Human Need
Administrator, Mrs G Mason 01325244992 http://fundforhumanneed.org.uk fundhumanneed@gmail.com
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The Fund for Human Need (FHN) is a small Methodist-affiliated charity established to relieve poverty and hunger. Emergency payments are made, irrespective of faith, ethnic origin or social group, to individuals in the UK, most of whom are refugees, asylum seekers or homeless, and to those in other kinds of personal distress.
Halesowen Welcome Project
The United Church, Hagley Road, Halesowen, B63 4PX https://www.birminghamchurches.org.uk/news/halesowen-welcome/
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Churches together welcome group, Every Monday 1.00pm – 4.00pm, Children Welcome
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Give food, clothes and bus pass
Narthex
St John's Church, Sparkhill, St Johns Rd, Birmingham, B11 4RG; 0121 753 1959; enquiries@narthex.org.ukhttps://www.narthex.org.uk
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Resource centre including benefits advice and foodbank.
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Provides essential children’s items for vulnerable families
National Zakat Foundation
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Distribute Zakat grants to Muslims in need, application process and supporting docs needed.
Places of Welcome
http://www.placesofwelcome.org/Locations/Birmingham/
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Hospitality network, across the whole UK, much in Birmingham
SIFA FIRESIDE (Supporting Independence From Alcohol and tackling homelessness)
122 Pershore Street, Birmingham B5 6PA. 0121 666 6866
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Drop in 0900 to 1300 for hot meals at lunch times, clothing, showers and support sessions for all people in need in the Birmingham area.
St Chads Sanctuary (Sister Margaret)
72-74 Shadwell Street, Birmingham, B4 6HA. http://stchadssanctuary.wordpress.com/?s=chad
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Drop in centre for asylum seekers & refugees, food toiletries.
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Open from 10.30-3.30 on weekdays: mon – wed, go for a cup of tea, biscuit and a chat.
The Soup Kitchen
Car park of St Michael’s Church, behind Carr’s Lane Centre, near Bull Ring, City
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Centre Free soup and bread, food parcels, hygiene packs, clothing and shoes for all ages.
Welcome Project (Louise)
Elmwood Church, Handsworth, bus 16, 07828 683450
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Giving out food packs on Friday mornings.Links to world style singing group – ask for details.
Part 5: Counselling & Health Groups.
Acupuncture
Gaynor Hollis, 07971853015, gaynorhollisacupuncture@gmail.com http://www.gaynorhollisacupuncture.com 5 Free sessions via BIRCH referral.
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Five Element medicine treats the root cause of disease.
Be Active Birmingham
http://beactivebirmingham.co.uk/about-us/ Visit your local sports centre, take two forms of ID, ARC card/IS.96 and proof of address and they will register you and give you a be active leisure card.
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Free wellbeing and sport activities across Birmingham
Birmingham City Council - Cycling
https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50122/cycling_in_birmingham
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Offer a range of free exciting cycling opportunities
Community Mental Health Team
Referrals from GP’s, primary care, Psychiatric liaison teams, other mental health teams, social services.
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Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) support people living in the community who have complex or serious mental health problems.
Freedom from Torture
Unit 5, 1st Floor, Caroline Point, 62 Caroline Street, B3 1UF, 0121 314 6825 http://www.freedomfromtorture.org/about/15/5252
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Care for the victims of torture.
Healthy MINDS
Get referred by your GP, get help online at http://www.bsmhft.nhs.uk/our-services/birmingham-healthy-minds/ 0121 301 2525, text BHM to 60777 to get a call back
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Mental health support, counselling for anxiety, depression.
NHS Direct:
0845 46 47 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
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Advice over the phone/online about your health.
NHS Find my nearest service:
http://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/GP/LocationSearch/4
Rape & Sexual Violence Project (RSVP)
0121 236 5763 http://www.rsvporg.co.uk/
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Free counselling appointments for survivors (refugee project not funded at present). Social group for survivors. ISVA reporting offences support.
Samaritans
Listening Service 116 123, jo@samaritans.org
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24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you need a response immediately, it's best to call us on the phone. This number is FREE to call.
Umbrella Sexual Health & Well Being Gum Clinic
Whittall Street Clinic, Whittall Street, Birmingham, B4 6DH. 0121 237 5700
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Health check appointments.
Spring to Life Project
Felipe 07856 277 028 info@springtolife.org http://springtolife.org
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Therapeutic services for wellbeing, counselling, massage, nature walks
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Part 6: Education and Employment Opportunities
Educational Opportunities
Birmingham Central Library
Broad Street
Website: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/libraries
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Free internet access, free books and other useful resources/services
Fircroft College
For those living in areas of the West Midlands county which includes Birmingham, the Black Country areas including Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall - and Solihull, but people who live in other parts of England may apply (though acceptance is not guaranteed)
Address: 1018 Bristol Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6LH.
Call 0121 472 0116 for more info or email admissions@fircroft.ac.uk.
Website: https://www.fircroft.ac.uk
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Courses are typically short and residential, and last for 3 days and 2 nights
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Courses may be free depending on financial situation and personal circumstances
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Courses include a 13-week English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course, a 3 day 2 night basics of IT course and many others: for more info, click here.
Crisis
Address: Suite 303, Rhubarb, 25 Heath Mill Lane, B8 4AE
Contact: 0121 348 7950, https://www.crisis.org.uk/get-help/birmingham/services/how-we-can-help-you-at-crisis-skylight-birmingham/,
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Crisis Skylight Birmingham delivers a programme of group activities and 1:1 courses that tailored to individuals. To find out more about the classes that are currently on offer, please email them at birmingham@crisis.org.uk or call 0121 348 7950.
East Birmingham Community Forum (EBCF)
Summerfield Community Centre, B18 4EJ, 0121 454 9133: www.ebcf.org.uk.
There are a range of courses available including:
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English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) https://www.ebcf.org.uk/esol/, 4 days a week for 12 weeks. The course will enable you to study reading, writing, speaking and listening at different levels.
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Hair and Beauty, 3 days a week for 7 weeks, designed to prepare you for employment as a supervised assistant/apprentice or for further learning in the hairdressing and beauty therapy industries within college.
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Entry requirements for all courses include: being aged 19 or over before August, seeking employment, resident in UK or EU for minimum 3 years, unemployed or if employed salary of 18,595 or under for fully funded provision, and entitled to public funds.
Employment support is also available if you are not in employment, education, or training but are looking to gain a new job or more hours. They support customers of any age. You will get:
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A dedicated caseworker, who will take time to get to know you and to support you through your journey overcoming any barriers you may have which may be preventing you from progressing.
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Help with searching and applying for jobs, focusing on jobs that match your skills and abilities. They'll work with your employer to make sure the workplace is right for you.
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The opportunity to take part in work experience / work trials.
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Help to build on your skills and give you the practical tools to help you with your job search such as CVs and interviews
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Access to qualifications and Apprenticeships.
Call 0121 454 9133 or 0121 328 4998 for more information on any of the above.
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List of local colleges, all of which offer different courses and may have nursery / crèche spaces available for those in NASS support:
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South and City College Birmingham https://www.sccb.ac.uk
2 campuses: Digbeth Campus, High Street Deritend, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 5SU, and Longbridge Campus, 1 Longbridge Lane, Longbridge B31 2AJ.
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There are a range of courses available depending on your needs https://www.sccb.ac.uk/adults, including English, Maths and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) https://www.sccb.ac.uk/courses/english-maths-and-esol, email admissions@sccb.ac.uk or call 0121 694 5000 to find out more. Call centre times are Monday - Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm, and Friday: 8.00am - 4.00pm.
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Nursery available for students of the college who have children, providing care for children from 6 months to 4 years old: https://www.sccb.ac.uk/open-to-the-public/the-nursery
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Next open day which you can attend to find out more about these courses: Saturday 18th June 2023 10am to 1pm.
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BMet https://www.bmet.ac.uk, courses at 6 different locations https://www.bmet.ac.uk/contact/how-to-find-us/, including Matthew Boulton College, Sutton Coldfield College, James Watt College and the Erdington Skills Centre.
Over 200 courses available, including:
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English, Maths & ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) https://www.bmet.ac.uk/our-courses/courses-for-19/part-time-courses-for-adult-learners/english-maths-esol/. The course you will be offered will depend on your previous qualifications and an initial assessment. Skills learnt include Speaking & Listening from September – December, Reading from December – March, Writing from March – June.
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Each course varies in length of time depending on your level of skill.
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Contact ask@bmet.ac.uk or call 0121 446 4545 for more details.
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Next open day which you can attend to find out more about these courses: Saturday 17th June 2023 – 10am to 1pm. Go to https://www.bmet.ac.uk/open-events-enrolment/june-open-events/, scroll down to the college you're interested in, and fill in the form on "Register Here".
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Some financial support potentially available including for course fees, childcare costs, meal allowances etc.
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Sandwell College (West Bromwich) http://www.sandwell.ac.uk, 2 campuses: Central Campus 1 Spon Lane West Bromwich B70 6AW, and Central Saint Michael's, New Square, New Street, West Bromwich B70 7PG
Many courses available, including:
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Free Level 3 Adult courses (part-time and full-time) in Coding Practices, Cyber Security Practices, Diploma in Counselling Skills Evening, Early Years Workforce Diploma (Early Years Educator), NCFE Diploma in Management Skills and Knowledge, and Level 4 NCFE Diploma in Adult Care. These courses are free for anyone aged over 19 who does not have a full Level 3 qualification (equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma or A-Levels) or higher, and who lives in a WMCA postcode area. See https://www.sandwell.ac.uk/adult-courses/free-level-3-adult-courses/ for more and register interest.
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ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages): They will carry out a simple test which will make sure that they put you on the right level of course. When you finish your course, you can progress on to higher level ESOL courses or one of their vocational courses, such as Health & Social Care or Hairdressing and others. ESOL courses are both full-time and part-time: https://www.sandwell.ac.uk/adult-courses/esol/
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Call 0121 667 5000 and email enquiries@sandwell.ac.uk to find out more about any of these courses.
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Next open day which you can attend to find out more about these courses: Thursday 15th June, 4pm to 7pm. Go to https://www.sandwell.ac.uk/opendays/ and book a ticket for one of the open day slots. You will be able to bring two adults with you.
Birmingham Adult Education Service http://www.learnbaes.ac.uk, Aston Learning Centre, 99 Whitehead Rd, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6EJ
Range of courses available including:
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ESOL - English for Speakers of Other Languages, part of which includes extra learning opportunities such as Conversation Clubs, IT skills, Wellbeing activities and preparation for vocational courses in Health and Social Care
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Call their Information Line on 0121 303 4318 or email information@baes.ac.uk to find out how to join an ESOL course.
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Below is a list of free and informal ESOL classes offered by community projects in Birmingham.
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Brushstrokes Community Project, 253 High Street Smethwick B66 3NJ, open Monday to Friday 9am - 3pm, contact 0121 565 2234 or email info@brushstrokessandwell.org.uk.
To visit:
By Bus
80, 87 from New street Station, Birmingham
54, 80, 87 from West Bromwich Bus Station
By Train
Birmingham City Centre - New Street Station, Snow Hill Station or Moor Street Station and bus to Smethwick High Street
Local Station - Rolfe Street Station and short walk to High Street
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Brushstrokes has no criteria for acceptance onto any of their ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses but prioritise asylum seekers wherever possible. ESOL courses range from beginners to Entry 3 including a phonics class to help people with no reading skills.
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Classes run from Monday to Thursday throughout term time. Initial registration and assessment is done the first week in September and the first week in January. Classes are usually filled very quickly. An additional Entry 1 class is currently being taught at Smethwick Baptist Church.
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See https://www.brushstrokessandwell.org.uk/education for more info and fill in https://forms.gle/vDojQQ6oXH8Bk2Ni6 to learn English at Brushstrokes
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St Chad's Sanctuary, 72 – 74 Shadwell Street Birmingham, B4 6HA, phone 0121 233 3127. WhatsApp, Telegram or text 07898 062765, email: info@stchadssanctuary.com
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Informal English classes available every Monday 2pm - 4pm, maximum number: 30 students. Book your place before you go to ensure you will get in. Join their Fun with English Telegram channel for information on how to book your place: https://t.me/+NEwSgJwGi51kYTU8
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For more info see http://www.stchadssanctuary.com/index.php/time-table
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Karis Neighbour Scheme, https://karisneighbourscheme.org/children-families/, Ladywood Methodist Church, St Vincent St West, B16 8RW, 0121 455 7524
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They run a weekly English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) class, friendly and welcoming, for those who don’t have English as a first language.
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Classes are free and they provide a crèche (nursery) for children under 5 in the same hall.
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You may sign up for this class if you are Local to Ladywood, don't go to college, are a refugee or asylum seeker
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There are no exams or accreditation and the course is a stepping-stone to college when people feel more confident.
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Call them on 0121 455 7524 to check there are places, or visit them: 10am – 12 noon, Fridays during school term time.
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Refugee and Migrant Centre, https://rmcentre.org.uk/esol-at-rmc/, Birmingham Branch: The Refugee and Migrant Centre, Second Floor, Chamberlain Building, 36 Frederick Street, Birmingham, B1 3HN, info@rmcentre.org.uk, or call 0121 374 0140.
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English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are available, to find out more, attend one of RMC’s three offices where their open drop-in service runs on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings between 9am-1pm.
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Google "ESOL classes in Birmingham" or "courses online asylum seekers and refugees Birmingham". For colleges, you will need letters proving address and sometimes asked about charity support, some courses are only for people in asylum support / benefits.
RefuAid support access to Language Tuition, Education, Employment and family reunification http://refuaid.org/
University education grants are also available, you need to check the criteria and see if you fit them.
Refugee Study, scholarships, grants, and free courses for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants http://www.refugee-study.co.uk/
For more information on how to apply for university as a refugee or asylum seeker, go to https://star-network.org.uk/access-to-university/how-to-apply/
Volunteering Opportunities
You may be consider becoming a volunteer, which means doing something unpaid that benefits others. This could be a regular commitment or a one-off event.
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The Centre for Voluntary Action: BVSC https://www.bvsc.org/become-a-volunteer
138 Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DR, 0121 643 4343
• Volunteer Centre opening hours: Monday – Friday 10-4pm
Many charities and community groups will advertise their volunteer vacancies on their websites or at their premises. https://do-it.org
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Birmingham Central Foodbank, https://birminghamcentral.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/volunteer/. If you are interested in volunteering with them send an email to info@birminghamcentral.foodbank.org.uk. They ask that volunteers commit to one shift a month for a minimum period of six months.
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Part 7: Legal Advice and Welfare Reps
Asylum and Immigration Legal representatives
Search the OISC website for registered OISC Agencies or the Law Society: https://www.gov.uk/find-an-immigration-adviser
Always get a client care letter, (and confirm costs if private work) before instructing anyone. With asylum you need a 50% chance of success to get legal aid to pay for your solicitor, so if you cannot get this, and a private solicitor is charging you, make sure you understand what they are doing, recommend checking in with a free advisor at Brushstrokes, RMC, ASIRT or BCLC. Legal aid pays for very little time, so you need to pay attention to your case, and help your solicitor understand your need for protection.
Immigration applications are costly, don’t miss extension deadlines, and get advice early to make sure your prepared.
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The Right to Remain Toolkit
A good place to start to understand your own case: https://righttoremain.org.uk/toolkit/
Legal Action for Women
Self-help guide for Asylum Seekers and their supporters against detention and deportation T: 020 7482 2496, law@allwomencount.net http://www.womenagainstrape.net/category/tags/self-help-guide
Firms we know who work with legal aid cases include:
Birmingham Community Law Centre
744-746, Warwick Rd, Birmingham B11 2HG https://www.centralenglandlc.org.uk/pages/category/birmingham 0121 227 6540 enquiries@centralenglandlc.org.uk
Free legal advice weekly, call Tuesday 11-1pm to get appt the following Thursday- people also queue outside their offices, people who queued get preference over phone call appts.
Braitch Solicitors
28 Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton, WV3 0TN, lax@braitchsolicitors.co.uk 0190 271 1200, http://www.braitchsolicitors.co.uk/asylum-and-immigration/
Duncan Lewis Solicitor
104 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 3AG, 0121 769 2792 New Enquiries 033 3772 0409 on do an online contact form https://www.duncanlewis.co.uk/Immigration_asylum.html
Genesis Law Associates Ltd
The Vault Business Centre , 123 High Street , Digbeth , Birmingham , B12 OJU, Ph. 0121 212 0451 | 0774 338 9077, https://www.genesislaw.co.uk
Fountain Solicitor
36 Bradford St, Walsall WS1 3QA, 01922 645429, or The Bordesley Centre, Stratford Road, B11 1AR, 07930 302 793 info@fountainsolicitors.com https://www.fountainsolicitors.com
Mordon’s Solicitor
109 A&B Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DT, 01216326464, Walk in Advice possible info@mordensolicitors.co.uk www.mordensolicitors.co.uk
TRP Solicitor
Unit 10 The Cloisters, 12 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1NP, 0121 616 4700, info@trpsolicitors.co.ukhttp://www.trpsolicitors.co.uk
J M Wilson Solicitors
299-301 Birchfield Road, Birmingham, B20 3BX, 0121 356 4556, Drop in Thursdays 3-6pm and Saturdays 11-1pm, enquiries@jmwilsonsolicitors.com http://jmwilsonsolicitors.com
Reps we know who do not charge, OISC registered to different levels:
ASIRT Asylum and Immigration Resource team
Dave Stamp, Unit 3 - Balsall Heath Academy for Social Enterprise, 4 St. Paul’s Road, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 8NG tel: 0121 213 5893, email: admin@asirt.org.uk https://asirt.org.uk
Brushstrokes
Salman Mirza, 253 High Street, Smethwick, B66 3NJ, 0121 565 2234, info@brushstrokessandwell.org.uk https://www.brushstrokessandwell.org.uk/advice
We hold a weekly Immigration advice clinic every Friday. Registration for the clinic is between 10.00am – 11.00am. We will be unable to see people who come to the immigration clinic after 11.00 a.m. Our service is free and operates on a drop-in basis. Smethwick residents Only.
Hope Projects
Aliya Khan (main focus asylum cases, advises Hope Projects recipients, and some women’s aid cases), c/o Jericho Trust, 196-198 Edward Street, Balsall Heath, B12 9LX https://hope-projects.org.uk Admin@hope-projects.org.uk
Lifeline Options
David Forbes, 120 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6NF, 0121 359 5435, lifelineoptions@yahoo.co.ukhttp://www.lifelineoptions.org.uk
Refugee and Migrant Centre
OISC level 2, 57 Frederick St, Birmingham B1 3HS, 0121 374 0140, 1st Floor, 9 Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4NB, 01902 311 554, http://www.rmcentre.org.uk/advice-and-guidance-service info@rmcentre.org.uk
Birmingham drop in Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, arrive by 9am to get seen the same day.
Community Care Public Law:
Birmingham Community Law Centre
744-746, Warwick Rd, Birmingham B11 2HG http://birminghamclc.org.uk 0121 227 6540
We provide free specialist legal advice housing, welfare, benefits.
Bhatia Best (Nottingham)
Scott Laing, 12 Carrington Street, Nottingham, NG1 7FF, Tel: (0115) 950 3231 https://www.bhatiabest.co.uk
National contract, community care, family law.
Instalaw (Nottingham)
Stuart Luke T: 0115 8246555, E: stuart.luke@instalaw.co.uk http://instalaw.co.uk/team/stuart-luke/
Public Law and Community Care Department. He is a Public Law and Community Care specialist. Stuart has over 13 years of experience in Judicial Review work, challenging the unfair exercise and abuse of power by public authorities, human rights breaches and discrimination. ton Street, Nottgham, NG1 7FF
Housing:
Birmingham Community Law Centre
744-746, Warwick Rd, Birmingham B11 2HG http://birminghamclc.org.uk 0121 227 6540
Strictly by appointments only, every Wednesday and Friday morning for housing help, call 0121 227 6540 to book appointment.
Birmingham Community Law Partnership
91 Corporation St, Birmingham B4 6RP, http://www.communitylawpartnership.co.uk 0121 685 8595
The Community Law Partnership (CLP) is an award winning, progressive firm of solicitors specialising in the law relating to Housing and Public Law.
Mcgrath & Co
2nd Floor Gazette Buildings,, 168 corporation Street,, Birmingham, B4 6TF, 0121 643 4121 https://www.mcgrath.co.uk
We have nearly 40 years experience of representing clients in housing related matters, and we have successfully represented clients in the County Court up to the highest court (now known as The Supreme court).
Shelter
5th Floor, Gateway House, 53 High Street, Birmingham, B4 7SY, 0344 515 1800 https://england.shelter.org.uk/get_help/local_services/birmingham_gateway_house
We offer a wide range of help and advice on all housing and homelessness issues.
We have computers and telephones you can use to access the internet for advice.
Debt / Welfare Benefits:
Birmingham Community Law Centre
Habib Ullah, 744-746, Warwick Rd, Birmingham B11 2HG http://birminghamclc.org.uk 0121 227 6540
Call Tuesdays 9am for appts
Birmingham Settlement
0121 250 0777, info@bsettlement.org.uk, http://www.birminghamsettlement.org.uk
Developing communities, changing lives, independent guidance and support.
Money Advice, mon, wed, Friday 9.30-12.30pm, debt and welfare benefits.
Nishkam Centre
http://nishkamcentre.org/social-innovation/iag-services/
Debt, Housing and Benefits advice
Mon – Friday 9-5pm, appointment only, drop in Wednesdays 9.30-12.30pm.
Citizens Advice Bureau
Ground Floor, Gazette Buildings, 168 Corporation Street, Birmingham, B4 6TF call: 03444 77 1010 email: enquiries@bcabs.cabnet.org.uk http://www.bcabs.org.uk
Employment Law
Birmingham Peoples Centre

Room 118, Gazette Buildings, 168 Corporation Street, Birmingham, B4 6TF Landline 0121 663 1224 Mobile 07972 437396 trevor@bhampc.co.uk http://bpcentre.org.uk
Family Law
Family Law Solicitors Ltd
Bank Chambers, 313 High Street, West Bromwich B70 8LU, 0121 718 7085, offices in Birmingham Bearwood, Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton, enquiries@hrsfamilylawsolicitors.com, www.hrsfamilylawsolicitors.com