What is Community Sponsorship?
Community sponsorship is a well-developed scheme which gives agency to local communities so that they can welcome people seeking sanctuary. Community Sponsorship groups have been a beacon of compassion and practical help to many families and individuals over recent years.
We have a wealth of experience in community sponsorship and have seen firsthand the vital role it can play in healing communities, both locally and globally.
How Community Sponsorship Works?
Community sponsors are made up of locally based individuals who form a group who commit to providing support to individuals when they first arrive, welcoming them to a new country and helping them to find their feet. The group helps with finding housing, settling into school, understanding UK public services and building connections in the local community.
Community sponsorship as it currently stands in the UK is restricted to select routes under the UK government-UNHCR refugee resettlement programme. The criteria for the current scheme are outlined here.
Groups throughout the UK have experience of community sponsorship and have successfully:
- Mobilised a team of volunteers (usually 8-12 core members): Engaging strong networks of volunteers who offer time, skills, and friendship.
- Provided language, education, jobs and practical support: This includes support to find homes, navigate local services and access healthcare, education, employment and translation support.
- Building connections: Organising events and initiatives that help newcomers connect with local residents and feel part of the community.
- Celebrate cultural inclusion and variety: Hosting cultural exchanges and storytelling, ensuring the community can play its part in a whole town welcome.
Community Sponsorship Stories
These videos tell the story of Croeso Teifi, one of charities supporting this campaign. Their founder set up Cwtch Pals, a Welsh Community response to Gaza. Communities for Palestinians sprang from this community response.