🧡 Every refugee deserves a friend

After arriving in the UK as an asylum seeker, Yvette was “dying inside” as she says. She felt isolated, lonely, and was struggling to find a connection.

Many asylum seekers and refugees don’t get to meet local people apart from officials – lawyers, immigration officers, social workers. Outside of her own community, Yvette wasn't sure how to make new friends in the UK. She felt a heavy void inside:

Yvette and her friend Dani were the first friendship that HostNation helped create, back in 2017.

Fast-forward to today, and their bond is stronger than ever:

🎉 We’ve made 1000 friendships…

Since that groundbreaking encounter between Yvette and Dani, we’ve worked tirelessly to match refugees with friendly locals in London, Manchester and Tyne & Wear, and 7 years on we’re delighted to announce that we’ve made 1000 friendships!

Nazar, Louis and Isobel, our 1000th friendship match, have just met, but they are already learning so much from each other and are excited for the future.

💪🏽 ...help us make 1000 more friendships!

At HostNation we believe in one simple yet powerful thing: every refugee deserves a friend.

The 1000 friendships we have created so far have helped refugees like Yvette and Nazar feel welcomed, connected, and hopeful as they rebuild their lives in a new country:

📌 88% of our refugee friends report increased wellbeing

📌 75% say their English has improved

Meanwhile practically all our UK befrienders (94%) tell us how rewarding it has been and how much they’ve gained from the cultural exchange with their refugee friend.

With over 350,000 refugees and asylum seekers currently living in the UK (UNHCR), many struggle with loneliness and poor mental wellbeing, due to challenges like language barriers, undignified housing, limited access to employment and minimal financial support.

🚨The need for friendship has never been more urgent

By donating as little as £5 a month to HostNation, you can have a significant impact in making a refugee feel more connected and welcome in their new community.

Do you want to spread the joy of true human connection?

🤝Support HostNation today!

We are a small, lean charity and we want to increase our impact. Over 90% of our income goes on direct project delivery. We have no premises or major overheads.

Wondering how your donation helps?

🧡 £3 a month could offer a refugee the warmth of a friendly chat

🧡 £5 a month could help a lonely refugee feel more at home

🧡 £15 a month could help build a more inclusive and connected UK

🧡 £30 a month could help turn strangers into lifelong friends

🧡 £50 a month could spark transformative friendships across more UK cities

With your help, we will create our next 1000 wonderful friendships.

🧡

In the mood for more uplifting friendship stories?

Check this video: