The idea
This project will improve the wellbeing of Eastern Sudanese refugees and socially isolated vulnerable individuals in Hammersmith & Fulham, with a particular emphasis on women. Through three weekly community-led sessions, we will provide a safe and welcoming space where participants can build resilience and connection. Activities will include culturally sensitive coffee gatherings, guided conversations, and expert-led wellbeing talks. By tackling mental health challenges and loneliness, the programme will help participants gain confidence, emotional support, and stronger local networks.
The sessions will be guided by input from Dr Fozay, a trusted community doctor experienced in refugee and migrant health. His involvement ensures our wellbeing approach is culturally sensitive and professionally informed, with appropriate referral pathways where needed. Funding will support the use of an accessible space, essential equipment, and volunteer coordination.
What we'll deliver
- Three weekly sessions held in an accessible local venue, creating a safe and welcoming space.
- Culturally sensitive coffee gatherings where we can meet, talk, and support one another.
- Guided conversations led by trained facilitators to encourage confidence, peer support, and shared problem-solving.
- Expert wellbeing talks by local providers and coordintated with input from Dr Fozay, a trusted community doctor,
- Volunteer coordination and training to ensure sessions are welcoming, safe, and sustainable.
- Essential equipment and space hire to run activities smoothly and inclusively.
Why it's a great idea
The project will bring measurable benefits to Eastern Sudanese refugees and socially isolated women in Hammersmith & Fulham by creating safe, supportive spaces for wellbeing and connection. We will run 3 sessions per week for 40 weeks, supporting around 60 women directly and benefiting over 150 family and community members indirectly. Benefits include:
Improved mental health and wellbeing through coffee gatherings, guided conversations, and peer support.
Reduced isolation and increased confidence for women facing cultural and language barriers.
Professional input from Dr Fozay, ensuring sessions are well-informed and linked to referral pathways.
Stronger community networks, with participants engaging with local services and each other.
Cohesion across families and neighbourhoods, spreading the impact beyond participants.
By combining community-led activity with expert guidance, the project will empower women to feel supported, valued, and more connected.
Steps to get it done
- Project Set Up (month1): book venues, purchase equipment and refreshments, recruit volunteers, and agree timetable
- Volunteer Training (month1): Provide induction and safeguarding training for 8–10 volunteers,
- Launch Sessions (month2): Begin weekly programme of three sessions, promoted via community, partners, and social media.
- Delivery (month2-10): 120 wellbeing sessions including coffee gatherings, guided conversations, wellbeing sessions
- Community Even t (month6): gathering for participants, guests and partners to show progress and encourage involvement.
- Monitoring complete(month10): Collect participant feedback, track volunteer hours, and adjust activities based on needs.
- Completion (month10): Final celebration; short report for funders inc participant stories, and sustainability plans.
