News and Events

Migrant Help's eVisa project – an information sheet is available. They provide in-person as well as remote support to clients with creating an account, explaining what the form is, asking and entering their information / responses, helping them understand the information and assist to follow the instructions given by UKVI. Drop-ins in Huddersfield, Leeds, Bradford, York and Sheffield.

Solidaritech in Bradford repurpose unwanted laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones, passing them on to asylum seekers and refugees to help them resolve their immigration status, pursue studies and start their lives in their new country. They have a constant need for volunteers to help collect donations, repurposing digital devices and redistribute to refugees and asylum seekers in need. It is not just help wiping drives and doing repairs – there are other jobs like driving, office work and training that is needed too. Whether you or your learners have skills to offer or want to help and learn new skills you will be welcome to join our volunteer team. Get in touch at https://solidaritech.com/contact/

Project Worker Mary Begley writes about MESH's recent Exploring and Belonging in Huddersfield project.

Curious Motion is a non-profit arts organisation using dance, movement, and creativity to tackle loneliness and isolation in Calderdale. We create and deliver opportunities for all people to experience dance and the arts, with a focus on fostering togetherness and connection for individual and collective wellbeing. We offer projects, performances, and a regular programme of classes and workshops. You can find us in various community venues in Elland, Rastrick and across the lower valley of Calderdale.

In this short audio interview, MESH Development worker Mary Begley talks to Mollie Wood, Engagement Manager at Proper Job Theatre Co about the work they do with ESOL learners in Kirklees & Calderdale, as well as areas in the North West.

The second meeting of the West Yorkshire ESOL Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Collaborative Group will focus on continuing discussions, identifying regional priorities, and hearing from a WYCA representative. They will share their role in ESOL ITE, future plans, and feedback on the group’s key priorities.

You are invited to the re-launch of the Lift the Ban campaign in Leeds, advocating for the right to work for people seeking asylum in the UK.

This is a call-out to training institutions and migrant related organisations that seek to help displaced people into the workplace and that have a good understanding of the obstacles that people seeking sanctuary experience.

Our development worker Clare Jackson was interviewed for the Bridges not Borders series at Chapel FM. Read all about her experience here.

Please join us for our next Lunchtime Showcase, which will be on the theme of Literacy. We look forward to seeing you there!

Our very own John Zavos has co-written this article, published in October 2024 in Step Change.

Our next Lunchtime Showcase will now take place on Monday 3rd February at 12.30pm, rather than Wednesday 5th February. The topic this time is Literacy. We will be sending out further information and a booking link very shortly. We hope to see you there!