Station Foyer, the first Foyer in the UK to focus exclusively on the needs of refugees, officially opened in Sheffield. The 20-bed Refugee HA foyer will provide training and support for refugees, to help them live independently within the community.
Like all foyers, Station Foyer will offer access to accommodation, support networks, and education, as well as to training and job search opportunities. In addition, the project will aim to help residents to develop life skills and knowledge of British society and culture, all in an atmosphere of mutual respect and care. Residents will also be encouraged to volunteer and involve themselves in local community ventures.
The Foyer was successful in obtaining funding from the European Refugee Fund, to fund training activities in its first year. This was match-funded by the Association. This enabled the recruitment of a full-time Foyer Development Officer, responsible for developing and delivering a life skills programme, which includes the following information and services:
The foyer is now working towards national Foyer Federation accreditation, which they hope to achieve by the end of the year. If the project fulfils its aims, it could become a model for future foyer projects working exclusively with refugees.