It’s Refugee Week! Here’s what’s happening in Derby to celebrate our friends who are seeking sanctuary…

Refugee Integration Worker Megan started her role at Upbeat earlier this year. Here are her reflections…

Refugee Integration Worker, Elliot, wonders about welcome as he wanders around a supermarket in preparation for the arrival of a new family seeking refuge in the UK.

We’ve all watched and felt helpless as events unfold in Ukraine, we pray for those fleeing and those left behind. But what can we do as a community?

Refugee Integration Worker Elliot arranged a trip to Carsington Water for some of the families that have been stuck in hotels since fleeing Afghanistan last year. Here are his reflections…

The impact of the Christmas Connection project has far outlasted the festive season. Refugee Integration Worker, Grace, writes about why.

Refugee Integration Worker, Joy, shares how she’s been helping support families who’ve fled their homes in Afghanistan over the last 6 months.

One week on from the Christmas Challenge, we’re celebrating having raised over £20,000 for a safe space for refugees — thanks to your amazing generosity.

We’re taking part in the Christmas Challenge! Find out how you can get involved and DOUBLE your donation this Christmas.

Hamza worked for the British Army in Afghanistan. He had to flee when the Taliban took over in August 2021. Here’s his story.

Mum-to-be Nicky shares honestly about what inspired her to help raise money for refugee mums.

Reflections on our children’s holiday club — a week of fun activities for refugee and asylum seeker children.

Upbeat Communities are proud to be recipients of a Beacon of Hope Award, presented by CBE Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Elizabeth Fothergill.

Head of Fundraising, Vicki Offin, reflects on our very first Walk for Welcome, and what she learned by hearing the stories of our refugee friends.

Elliot looks back at our time on Zoom, including the many wonderful participants who joined us from across the country…

Next week, we’re celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of those seeking refuge in the UK.

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.