A Trip to Bakewell in October | Supporting Refugees in Derby & Derbyshire
We have been very fortunate to be able to visit Bakewell with our participants several times, thanks to the Bakewell Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support Group—a group of individuals who have generously decided to offer their time and hospitality to refugees living in the city. Each time, we have felt so welcomed.
Trips like these give our participants the chance to build friendships, make memories, and become culturally oriented to life in the UK by visiting places near to the city of Derby—which they wouldn’t normally be able to afford. Integration Manager Elliot shared his highlights from the latest trip.
Named storm Amy was announced ahead of the trip to Bakewell on a Saturday in October. Heavy rain and strong winds were more likely to have a major impact on Scotland but a yellow weather warning for rain and wind was in place for most of the UK. Would we be blown away—or even washed out?
Saturday started brighter than I imagined and initially rain free. How long would the rain hold off? Would anyone show up given the forecast? I arrived very early- no one was there, which gave me time to eat breakfast in a café whilst nervously hoping people wouldn’t be deterred by the weather. After a delicious breakfast I went in search of participants.
Thankfully, soon all the seats in the minibus were full of people—including a one year old who was keen to visit Bakewell along with her mum. Through the rain-streaked glass we were able to catch glimpses of the soggy windblown countryside: sheep and cows but sadly no monkeys, camels or elephants on this safari!
We made it there safely. After introductions to volunteers from Bakewell Refugee and Asylum Support Group who were hosting us, it was time for lunch. It was quite early to eat, but we managed! Pasta salad, baked potato, quiche, bread, pizza, strawberries, grapes, brownies, sponge, crumble and ice-cream soon vanished. There was no time for conversation as it was time to concentrate on eating! As one volunteer said, “We've never had such a quiet group!”
Several of the participants then shared about their country, language and culture, including festivals, celebrations, well-known buildings and local delicacies.
Folk music was to follow but as the intensity of the rain had lessened slightly we made a break for a walk by the river. Much to my surprise everyone wanted to walk outside, even those without jackets. We didn't see any fish, but feeding the ducks turned out to be very popular activity.
A trip up the hill, past the churchyard, to the museum followed. Several people stated their amazement that the building was so old, as well as that it was their first time ever in a museum.
On our return people tried their hand at jewellery making, decorating bags and framing pictures whilst others were happy to eat cake and drink coffee.
Loaded up with completed art work and remnants of lunch, we clambered back on the minibus. After a short detour to view Chatsworth House we were back in Derby.
On my walk back home I received a text:
"Thank you sir for this wonderful day. I truly appreciate it, and may God protect and bless you and your family."
Thank you to Bakewell Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support Group who gave us such a warm welcome, served us delicious food and provided such a memorable day for us all!
Elliot Cooper—Integration Manager
Stand with us to provide more opportunities for cultural orientation and friendship-building for refugees by becoming a regular donor: upbeatcommunities.org/donate
Even a small amount each month can help to provide creative sessions, conversational English classes, and support groups for refugees to overcome trauma and isolation.