Hi
In Leeds we have just started working with this group I have tried to
summarise some of the things we do
Refugee & Asylum Seekers
Once a week we host a drop in centre for Asylum Seekers and Refugees in
the Central Library.
Sessions last from 11.00 ? 2.00 with advice services offered by Housing,
Social Services, Education, Legal, Refugee Council and NHS.
The drop-in originally was held at the Mandela Centre in a suburb of Leeds
it was felt because refugees and asylum seekers are dispersed all over
Leeds a central location was needed.
The Central library as well as being in a central location has many
services to offer to this client group. This includes a job seekers advice
worker, IT facilities including free Internet access and training sessions,
basic instruction for use of IT translated into community languages, book
marked sites for information in different languages including newspapers, a
well stocked children's area with stock in different languages and videos
and music CD's to borrow.
We also support and compliment the work currently being undertaken by 'Boox
on the move' with 2-15 year olds and have provided a collection of
materials to develop basic skills including reading material in appropriate
languages.
The library service works closely with other local authority providers to
identify needs and it is recognised the library with its range of services,
long opening hours and a presence in each local community is invaluable to
this client group. This recognition by other providers is a good way to
promote and raise awareness of our services to the individual.
Contact made yesterday identified a women and children's group for Refugees
and Asylum Seekers in Leeds who are planning to produce a display and
publish a book on work and money in their own country compared with here,
for International Women's Day, they are also interested in family learning
and would like to be involved in arts projects.
Hope this helps
Ann Day
Neighbourhood Renewal Manager
Leeds Library & Information Service
Tel 0113 214 3316
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