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This Volunteers’ Week (3 to 7 June), Woking Borough Council is urging committed residents to support refugee families integrate into life in Woking.
With over 500 Syrian, Ukrainian and Afghan refugees resettling in Woking since 2015, it has been a huge adjustment for these families who have found themselves fleeing conflicts in their home countries.
Volunteers play a critical role in helping refugees overcome a number of challenges and integrate into their new communities, offering a warm welcome and imparting basic skills that are essential to day-to-day life in the UK.
Typical duties may include explaining how to use public transport, accessing health care, learning the local area, connecting with community groups and offering interpreting assistance with their developing English language skills.
Elspeth Andrews, Woking Borough Council’s Voluntary Sector Co-ordinator, said: “Volunteers are the heart and soul of our vibrant communities. Often unsung heroes, I am inspired every day by the hard work and dedication of those residents who go above and beyond giving up their own time for the benefit of others.
“As we mark the 40th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our army of local volunteers and hope many more local people are inspired to come forward and support someone in need – in particular our refugee community.
“Volunteer support will help refugees become independent, confident individuals who can flourish in their new lives here in Woking. Whether you have the odd day, morning, or hour to spare, it all helps make a positive impact.”
The council’s Resettlement team and Volunteer Woking will be on-hand to support volunteers throughout their volunteering journey.
Applicants must undergo a DBS check and basic safeguarding and cultural awareness training before carrying out this role.
Find out more about this and many other volunteering opportunities via Volunteer Woking.