We will improve the local environment and create opportunities for asylum seekers living at Napier Barracks to volunteer in the local community through linking with local projects and organising our own volunteering groups. This project will build links between people living at Napier and the local community, give the men living at Napier opportunities to learn more about life in the UK, and will improve the local area in and around Folkestone. We will undertake conservation tasks, gardening for local charities and community groups, organise litter-picking, and work with other organisations to give opportunities for people seeking asylum to volunteer with other charities in Folkestone and Hythe. We will support the people living at Napier to grow seedlings and plants in the garden onsite at Napier and then transplant these into the gardens of local community groups.

What we'll deliver:

• 500 people seeking asylum supported to volunteer in the local community
• 10 gardens of local charities and community groups maintained
• 30 litter picks organised

Why it's a great idea:

This project has a lot of benefits- Being able to volunteer and participate in activities alongside local citizens will help people with asylum to practice English, learn about life in the UK and aid their integration into British life. The people living at Napier often say that they feel bored- this will offer people something meaningful to do with their time so have a positive impact on their health and wellbeing. The project will also have benefits for the local area, as the men will improve the environment and appearance of areas around Folkestone and Hythe. These activities will also give opportunities for local people to meet and get to know the people living at Napier Barracks, increasing understanding and improving community cohesion.

Steps to get it done:

• Organise first litterpick
• Grow seedlings
• Complete work on first community/ charity garden
• Complete first conservation volunteering alongside another organisation