Befriending and finding homes

We offer befriending for refugees living in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. This involves:

• Visiting families in their homes regularly, at least once a month. Most visits are 1-2 times a week and last 1-2 hours.
• Supporting their efforts to learn English by providing an opportunity to practice English conversation.
• Offering friendship to reassure them that they are not alone, despite separation from family and friends.
• Offering positivity and encouragement as they navigate life in an unfamiliar and often alien environment.
• Suggesting how they might access local amenities or services and other informal advice one would offer to a relative, rather than as ‘expert’ advice.
• Representing families in matters requiring fluent English (online, by phone and/or in person) if they request this.
• Proactively identifying and suggesting activities or local outings that families might enjoy.

In supporting refugees to find new homes, we have worked with Richmond Council to develop a package of benefits for landlords participating in UK government schemes:

• Rent up to £1,400pcm payable direct to landlord through housing benefit.
• Standard assured shorthold tenancy (AST) agreement with break clause after two years.
• Incentive payment upfront (£2,000 - £3,500 size-dependent).
• Six weeks rent in advance.
• Rent and council tax paid from date property becomes available.
• Up to £460 towards insurance costs.
• Help with furnishing if required.
• No obligations towards tenants beyond normal property maintenance.