The news from Afghanistan is extremely concerning and has prompted an outpouring of generosity and offers of help from people across Kingston. During challenging and uncertain times, it is very heartening to hear that so many in our community want to support.
Kingston’s response
Kingston is currently preparing the groundwork to welcome families from Afghanistan via the Home Office resettlement schemes. The council, Refugee Action Kingston and the Migrant Advocacy Service are working together to support refugees and the families of staff who worked for British organisations.
To find out more about the resettlement plans and schemes for newly arriving families from Afghanistan, visit the below pages here:
Donations and fundraising
You can help Refugee Action Kingston by becoming a regular supporter.
If you aren’t in the position to donate money, you can:
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Share posts asking for funds on social media.
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Hold fundraising coffee mornings/BBQs.
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Ask friends and family to donate instead of birthday presents.
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Donate items (check the website to see what is currently needed). You could also collect items on your street and offer to transport them in one go.
Check the Refugee Action Kingston website for donations they are seeking at the moment – if there are other items you have to give away, contact us at Volunteering Kingston and we can find the best place.
You can also offer items and housing via this government website.
Volunteers with the right skills and expertise
Over 400 people approached Refugee Action Kingston to offer support in the wake of developments in Afghanistan. The families, refugees and locally employed staff, need expert support and volunteers with specific skills. Dari and Pashto speakers, mental health professionals and mentors will be needed.
Even if there is not an immediate need for a specific offer of support, the skills and time being offered will be needed in the future as our new community members rebuild their lives in Kingston.
You can find out more about volunteering here:
* Sign up to hear more about volunteering opportunities from Refugee Action Kingston.
* Register on the Volunteering Kingston website here.
* Sign up for the training programme with the Migrant Advocacy Project to become an advisor for vulnerable migrants.
* Refugees at Home and Room for Refugees – offer a room to a refugee if you have space in your home.
* Volunteer with the Refugee Council.
* If you would be interested in providing housing or fostering children, you can register your interest on this government website.
Small actions you can do that make a big difference
* Donate items to Care4Calais – note that the Kingston drop off is currently closed. You could offer to collect donations for your local WhatsApp group and drive to the nearest place.
* Write to your MP regarding support for refugees.
* Share donation links and volunteer opportunities on social media.
* Write a letter of welcome and support to families arriving in Kingston. Include as much as you like, including drawings and pictures, and your wish to welcome new families to the wonderful borough of Kingston.
Letters, drawings and photos can be sent to :
Refugee Action Kingston
Siddeley House 50 Canbury Park Rd
Kingston upon Thames KT2 6LX