Благотворительный центр для беженцев в Глазго принял более 500 посетителей за месяц

A support hub for refugees has welcomed more than 500 visitors in a single month. Refugee Sanctuary Scotland’s Glasgow hub, located on Bath Street, has become a lifeline for refugees and asylum seekers since opening just six months ago. In June, more than 500 people accessed the centre’s services, including wellbeing activities, social connections, and practical support as they rebuild their lives in Scotland. Ronald Tagwireyi, chief executive of Refugee Sanctuary Scotland, said: "When we spoke to the people we support, one message came through very clearly. "They wanted somewhere they could come regularly, feel welcome, meet other people, and take part in activities that would help them move forward with their lives." Read more 38-year-old Glasgow group that helps hundreds with disabilities could close in months Delays in sexual offence cases mean some survivors 'won't be here to see justice' Scotties return to Glasgow for final farewell before Maggie’s fundraiser The charity, which operated without a permanent office until late 2025, launched the hub in response to growing evidence that refugees and asylum seekers needed more than just practical help. Many expressed the need for a safe, welcoming space where they could feel connected and supported. Tagwireyi said: "Before we opened the Hub, we were working remotely and using borrowed meeting spaces. "Those arrangements served a purpose, but they could never provide the sense of belonging and community that a permanent home can create. "The Hub is much more than an office. "It is a place where people can have a cup of coffee, make new friends, learn new skills, and find support when they need it. "If we cannot help someone directly, we can connect them with organisations that can." Since becoming fully operational earlier this year, the hub has offered a variety of activities including English language classes, digital skills training, wellbeing workshops, art sessions, and yoga classes. One of the first programmes hosted at the centre was an eight-week art workshop led by a local artist named Jade. The sessions gave participants a chance to express themselves creatively while developing social connections and building confidence. Louise Simpson, operations manager at Refugee Sanctuary Scotland, said: “Many of the people who come to us have experienced uncertainty, isolation and trauma. “Activities such as art and yoga may seem simple, but they provide social connection and breathing space and something positive to look forward to each week. “Our learning activities such as our English conversation classes and digital skills classes build confidence and self-esteem whilst the work with our amazing volunteers, many of whom are in the asylum system, gain confidence as they develop their skills through our training and feel valued as they are such an integral part of our Hub's success. "It is heartening to see people who initially arrive through the door feeling nervous and unsure, then gradually become part of a supportive community. "That sense of connection can make a huge difference to someone's wellbeing and confidence." Read more Swinney says hatred, racism and extremism have 'no place in Scotland' ahead of summit Racist stormed BBC Glasgow studios demanding interview on migrants Glasgow play from Springburn writer examines motherhood, community and racism The hub also serves as a central access point for information, guidance, and referrals to trusted partner organisations throughout Scotland. Tagwireyi said: "We want people to know that they are not alone. "Whether someone needs practical support, advice, a listening ear, or simply a safe place to spend time with others, we aim to provide that welcome. "The success of the first six months shows just how much this type of space is needed. "Seeing more than 500 people use the Hub in a single month demonstrates the impact it is already having on the lives of refugees and asylum seekers in Glasgow." In addition to English language support, the hub has introduced informal Weegie lessons to help newcomers understand Glasgow’s distinctive dialect and expressions. Tagwireyi said: "It gets a lot of laughs. "People who have just arrived in the city can sometimes struggle with the dialect. "It's a fun way of helping them integrate and feel more at home in Glasgow."