Campaign by Story
We are connecting people of different cultures and backgrounds to build understanding of one another and live well with difference
Our society is fractured and divided. Political views are polarised, hate crime is on the rise, government policies towards refugees and immigrants are hardening, and our asylum system is widely acknowledged to be broken. We are increasingly diverse, and yet diversity is seen by some to be a problem rather than something to be celebrated.
Much of the mistrust and division we see is caused by stereotypes and misperceptions that are rooted more in the distance between people (the fact that we don’t know one another or interact meaningfully) than in the differences between us.
Help us tell a different story
Right now, division is wining a lot of headlines and creating a lot of concern. But with your support, we can tell a different story, one of kindness, understanding, and belonging.
With your help we will create spaces where strangers become neighbours, and communities live well together with difference.
The importance of meeting the local people is to have a good chat about who you are…because sometimes you want to be heard by people…so when you have the chat, people just try to give you time, it’s kind of a good therapy…finding a person to talk to and listen to what you say…even in a broken English. It’s good to feel that you are making some connection with locals.
From walking, to sharing food and stories - people are connecting through our projects
Eating together around a table at a Peace Feast is a great way of getting to know others...
It was a very enjoyable evening, good food, good company and a great learning experience. So many smiles it was just what I needed at the end of the week and the music really added to the atmosphere. For me, meeting new people and hearing their stories is the icing on the cake. Trying different cuisines, learning about different countries, cultures and languages in such a friendly, relaxed setting is a great experience.
… and challenge stereotypes. One person from a cultural awareness training shared,
I really enjoyed listening to the woman from Iran and thought this added a great perspective and (shamefully) challenged some pre conceived ideas I had about that culture. Considering myself as a very tolerant person, this surprised me - and showed me that we can always learn and grow in this area.
Befriending gives both partners an opportunity to get to know someone with a different background
Having made a genuine friend that not only can I support but she has been able to support me in advice and companionship. [And] introducing ‘A’ to my friends. Our paths would just never have crossed if it wasn’t for Bridges but she’s fit into my friendship group like it was nothing!
One special moment was when my befriender took me to explore a local park and explained things about Bristol. It helped me feel more connected to the city. I also really enjoyed when we laughed and shared stories about our cultures. It made me feel accepted and understood. It helped my mental wellbeing a lot. I felt less lonely and more supported. Talking to someone regularly made me feel calmer and more hopeful, especially during stressful times. I just want to say thank you. [Befriend] has made a big difference in my life. I’m very grateful for the time, care, and support I received from my befriender and from your team.”
Befriending gives both partners an opportunity to get to know someone with a different backgroundI joined the first walk to the Suspension Bridge and Ashton Court. [Walk With Me] is a good project because it allows the asylum seekers, the refugees which are new to the country, to have access to the city, to connect to the city and know what kind of beauty the city holds. It feels good because you are enjoying the nature and also you find yourself being valued and being considered to be part of…(community).
Walking brings people together and improves wellbeing
Our Bridges for Bridges challenge is inspired by our Walk With Me project.