Our placement student, Caroline Msimanga, is studying for a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Derby. Here, she shares her first impressions of starting her placement with Upbeat Communities.

Upbeat Finance Manager Louise on finding hope in difficult times — and sharing it with those who need it most.

Three Upbeat volunteers share what our women’s work has looked like since the pandemic began.

From The Repair Shop to Dr Pimple Popper, Elliot shares how the stories of restoration gracing our TV screens can inspire us to help others.

Our CEO, Andrew Jackson, reflects on 2020 and shares his dreams for Upbeat Communities in 2021. Part one of two blog posts.

This Christmas won’t be what many of us wanted. But what can it teach us about the experiences of those seeking sanctuary? Ruth explores…

Award-winning collage artist and long-term supporter of Upbeat Communities, Giles Davies, tells the story behind the stunning piece he created for our 15th anniversary.

This time last year, most of us had never considered the concept of a ‘virtual race’, let alone taken part in one. Read how April, Izzie and Ruth found the experience of running the virtual Derby 10K last month.

Our CEO, Andrew Jackson, shares his response to the recent tragedies that have taken place in the English Channel.

Ruth describes the challenging and inspiring moments of working with Syrian families on their resettlement journey over the last few months.

Elliot shares his thoughts on new Netflix series, ‘Stateless’, and prompts us to ask the question, ‘how can we make a difference to the experiences of refugees and asylum seekers?’

Read Don’s reflections on volunteering during lockdown…

Read and watch Sam’s powerful summary of the ways Upbeat has touched his life and so many others’.

I am moving on, but Upbeat has left a huge impression. Here’s how…

We can’t gather in the same way, but we can still celebrate the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees. Take a look!

There has never been a more important moment to help strangers become neighbours. We just have to rethink the way we do it.

A hospital visit, 114 miles of driving and a garden badger invasion! Here’s an account of one day resettling Syrian refugees.

Ruth, one of our amazing Key Workers, writes about resettling Syrian refugees in Derbyshire.

What’s it really like? We asked Louise.

Read our autumn newsletter right here!