Why Refugee Resource?

For more than 20 years, this Oxford-based small charity has worked with refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants as they heal from trauma and rebuild their lives.

We offer counselling, psychotherapy and other therapeutic and practical support to help people recover their mental health and become part of Oxfordshire's diverse community.

Why Now?

At this unprecedented time, we invite you to show solidarity and support for refugees, many of whom are among the hardest-hit by the pandemic, and likely to endure long-term negative consequences. We have adapted all of our services to continue running throughout the pandemic, which has been a lifeline for refugees and asylum seekers facing complex trauma, increased isolation and multiple other hardships. Now, we must seek additional funds to continue offering these vital services.

Our charity's work

Last year Refugee Resource worked with over 230 people from over 40 different countries, and with multiple referral partners and community groups - from GPs and the NHS, social services, schools, mutual aid groups and other local charities.

Many clients are referred to us having suffered multiple traumas including conflict, loss/separation (e.g. death of family members), violence and exploitation. They exhibit symptoms of emotional distress, grief, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and a sense of lost identity.

Once in the UK their ordeal is not over. The asylum process (now becoming more hostile) is often experienced as re-traumatising, and the temporary nature of gaining status means carrying additional burdens of fear, poverty and uncertainty, which can make it difficult to cope and feel part of society. They continue to face multiple disadvantages and crisis, related to their health, income and housing, as well as stigma and discrimination.

Will you help us and Run for Refugees?

Lace up your trainers, kick-start a fundraising page and join our inspiring team of runners. We have a couple of spots left on our official team, or you can sign up independently or even run the race virtually as several runners did in 2020. We're here to help if you have any questions - we'll also aim to organise some social meet ups (pandemic permitting) and celebratory goodie bags for everyone who raises £250 or more! For now - THANK YOU! - and thank you for supporting Refugee Resource.