Would you like to learn and understand the challenges faced by people seeking refuge in your local area with empathy? Becoming a Buddy is a rewarding and empowering experience, where you learn about new cultures, meet new people, and most importantly, give invaluable support to our refugee community

“Meeting with my Buddy is definitely the highlight of my week. I’ve seen her confidence grow massively over the last few months, and I’m so proud to be part of her journey.” (Feedback from a Volunteer Buddy)

Being a buddy helps a refugee to:

• Build local connections
• Integrate into the local community
• Get to know the local area
• Improve their English language by having informal chats
• And so much more!

Are you able to help with the above and commit to volunteer at least 1 hour a week for 6 months? If your answer is yes, then you are the one we are looking for! Please, register your interest by following the link https://podio.com/webforms/27101443/2079877 and we will contact you with an invite to find out more at our next induction meeting.

The induction sessions to become a Buddy will cover:

• An overview of the Refugee Buddy Project – our mission, vision and the practical work we do
• Insights into how our Buddy scheme works
• What it’s like to be a Buddy and the incredible difference you can make to someone’s life
• The support we offer our Volunteer Buddies (e.g. Reflective Practice)
• Other ways to be involved (if Buddying isn’t for you!)

A free lunch will be provided at both events. The next induction sessions will take place on:

Saturday 13th September 2025, 10am – 3pm @ The White Rock Hotel, Hastings, TN34 1JU

Saturday 27th September 2025, 10am – 3pm @ Council Chamber room, The Civic Centre, Uckfield, TN22 1AE.

To express your interest in attending the meeting, or for more information on becoming a Volunteer Buddy please, email [email protected]

Thank you for joining us! we look forward to getting to know you!