CEO Andrew Jackson reflects on the impact Upbeat Communities has had on people seeking sanctuary in 2023, and some exciting opportunities in 2024…

Thank you so much to all who donated to our Christmas Challenge appeal to support refugee women and children to thrive in Derby!

The Big Give Christmas Challenge is underway! Help us to raise £19,500 so we can empower refugee women in Derby.

Our annual newsletter is available to read digitally!

The number of homeless refugees in Derby is rising at an alarming rate, due to a housing crisis, and an impossibly short ‘move on’ period for new refugees. Upbeat Communities and its supporters must be part of the response.

We’re excited to launch our new promo video — created by Andrew Rutter with HelpFilm.

The first in our ‘Why Do People Flee?’ series, looking at the realities many refugees in our community have been forced to flee from.

Abdul (name changed) told us how Upbeat helped him navigate life as an asylum seeker newly arrived in the UK.

Chief Executive Andrew Jackson shares Upbeat’s response to the new Illegal Migration Bill and its horrific consequences for those seeking refuge.

Phoebe shares her experiences of her placement with us.

This Refugee Week, we’re celebrating a Festival of Welcome on Saturday 24th June. You’re invited!

In May, a group from Upbeat had the chance to visit Bakewell. Upbeat Volunteer Joan shares more about the day.

Upbeat Communities is thrilled to have been awarded £291,546 in funding over the next 3 years from the National Lottery Community Fund for a new Thriving Places project!

Miqdad moved to Derby 10 months ago after difficulties in his home country meant he had to flee. He shared how Upbeat helped him as he began the slow process of rebuilding his life.

Head of Enterprise Michael Gladwell shares what the Award means for the future of our social enterprise.

Richard joined the Upbeat Volunteer team in 2022. He told us about his experiences supporting students in our English classes.

Fresh air, friendships, and freedom to have fun. Here’s how trips out empower our friends seeking refuge.

Upbeat Integration Manager Elliot recommends some thought-provoking reads for the festive season.

Thank you so much to all who helped us raise an incredible £21,192 in the Christmas Challenge this year.

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