The festive season is a time for joy and connection - but for many of the people we support at AARC, it’s also a time of deep loneliness and longing. While most of us are wrapping presents and preparing meals, some are far from home, missing loved ones, and navigating the overwhelming challenges of seeking safety in a new place.

This Christmas, we’re working hard to bring warmth and hope to those who need it most. From care packages with essentials to emotional support for those feeling isolated, your kindness is helping us make a difference.

Read more about how we’re supporting refugees and asylum seekers this festive season and watch our special Christmas appeal video here.

Together, we can ensure no one feels forgotten this Christmas.

Wham! took the world by storm in the 80s and 90s, their music loved by everyone from teenagers to housewives. But behind their catchy tunes lies a powerful story of immigration. George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, both sons of immigrants, helped shape British pop culture in ways we can still feel today. This article dives into how immigration has not only shaped the soundtrack of Britain, but also continues to enrich our society.

Join me, a volunteer at AARC, as I take on the £8.86 challenge – living for a week on the same amount people seeking asylum in the UK receive. From walking miles to the supermarket to stretching ingredients to their limit, I learned just how tough it is to make ends meet. Along the way, I reflected on the isolation and challenges faced by those living in temporary accommodation. Here's how it all unfolded.

At AARC, we are committed to supporting young people seeking asylum, especially those whose ages are disputed. Our latest blog highlights the urgent need for accurate and timely age assessments, as delays can leave vulnerable children without the necessary legal protections and support they deserve. Read more about how AARC steps in to provide essential care and emotional support, ensuring these young people can start building a safer future.

Like most people, we don't exactly relish the prospects of moving hoose. So when we had to vacate where we were and our new AARC Hub wasn't quite ready, we put out a cry for help!

Seeking asylum in the UK is more than just escaping danger — it's a journey filled with immense challenges. From proving the risks of returning home to battling social stigma and recovering from trauma, asylum seekers face countless obstacles. With no right to work, many are left in limbo, stripped of dignity and purpose. At AARC, we provide crucial support, helping individuals rebuild their lives, connect with their new communities, and regain hope for a better future.

Eritrea is one of the world’s most repressive nations, where forced conscription, brutal human rights abuses, and political persecution drive thousands to flee. But what compels Eritrean asylum seekers to embark on such a dangerous journey to the UK? In this post, we uncover the harsh realities they face and how AARC provides vital support as they rebuild their lives in safety.