CHARIS Refugees is dedicated to bringing hope and transforming the lives of displaced people, refugees, and asylum seekers in Somerset and the Southwest of England. We work through the UK Home Office Community Resettlement programme to settle refugee families, helping them rebuild their lives and contribute to their new communities.
Our mission is to be friends to refugees, providing the practical, emotional, and spiritual support they need to settle and live happy, healthy lives. We offer:
- Community Sponsorship – Welcoming and settling families in partnership with local churches and councils.
- Welcome Hubs – Safe spaces for refugees to connect, access support, and build community.
- Immigration Advice – Guidance and support for those navigating the UK immigration system.
- ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) – Language support to help refugees integrate and thrive.
- Special Programmes – Activities for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASCs), including arts, music, sports, and social events to relieve anxiety and foster wellbeing.
- Support for other Community Sponsorship Groups – Training, advice, and workshops for organisations welcoming refugees.
We are proud to partner with local councils, charities, and artists to create opportunities for refugees to express themselves, find belonging, and access essential services. Our work is rooted in compassion, dignity, and a commitment to making Somerset and the Southwest a place of safety and sanctuary for all.
All services are provided free of charge to refugees and asylum seekers. For immigration advice, please fill out the application form on our Immigration Advice page. For general enquiries, contact us using the details below.