Our exciting recreation programme will consist of outings across London, covering a range of cultural sights (galleries, theatres, museums), famous landmarks of central London, leisure activities and a family-accessible day for parents and children. We will run these trips during the school-term Easter and Summer holidays – a time when the majority of mainstream programming takes a pause, and when we typically see an increase in levels of social isolation and mental health difficulties. This program will support refugees and asylum seekers to feel more familiar with the city in which they live, to be more informed and confident navigating public transport and accessing the services they need, and to build meaningful and positive social connections in and outside of CARAS in the process, allowing them to thrive in their new communities.

What we'll deliver:

• 10 trips across London, covering cultural sights, leisure activities and family-accessible days benefitting 100 people
• Offer of wraparound support (access to ESOL, casework support and a range of workshops) reaching 300 people per year

Why it's a great idea:

With most refugees and asylum seekers not able to see any part of London outside of where they are housed, we envisage that this project will provide them with the chance to access cultural, social and historical spaces in London which they are currently unable to access. Asylum seekers are unable to work whilst they wait for refugee status, and for many this period of waiting remains a stagnant time where they are both temporally and geographically trapped. We know from our consultations with our community members how meaningful social programming and trips will be and are sure of the positive impact this program will have for mental health, not only by providing activities to engage and inspire individuals, but additionally through building new social networks. Your support could help more than 400 people rebuild their lives, overcome trauma and start to make happy memories within their new communities.

Steps to get it done:

• 5 recreational activities/trips over the summer holidays
• 1 recreational activity/trip over the Easter holidays
• 4 recreational activities/trips over the Christmas holidays
• At least 75% of participants will report that they feel better about their future