Colchester City of Sanctuary

Refugee, Asylum seeker and Migrant Action  

RAMA supports those who are far from home and who have nowhere else to turn. As well as the refugees and asylum seekers mentioned above, there are others who may be vulnerable such as migrants with British partners and dependents, or victims of domestic violence or trafficking. Some are making a new life here; some have been here a while; and still others are only with us for a short time.

RAMA provide support with the complexities of a new life in a foreign country, at all the different stages of the integration process. They help people get basic support to enable them to recover their dignity.

They give

• immigration advice
• advice and guidance on the asylum process
• assist with everything from school applications, doctors’ visits, signposting, transport, job applications, English lessons, sourcing furniture to finding toys.
• put people in touch with local befrienders
• run a programme of sessions in computing, crafts, gardening and many other activities.

Telephone 01206 638454

Email rama@rama.org.uk

Essex Integration

Essex Integration provides essential support services to refugees and migrants moving to Essex under the 'Home Office schemes'.

While they work on a contract basis for Essex County Council delivering core requirements of the scheme, they also provide, wider integration support through a range of voluntary and community service.

Telephone 01206 861180

Email info@dnsnetworks.org

Bridgeway Mission

Are a connecting and empowering Hub concerned for families in need from the Middle East and Eastern countries, including refugees, new immigrants and other minority ethnic groups.

Hong Kong Welcome Hub – Colchester.

Offers a variety of services to help you reach your goals. Training programs are designed to help you prepare for the job market and to acquire the skills you need to succeed. From learning the local language to improving your interview techniques, they have you covered.

Other local agencies that can offer help 

Community360

The Hub situated in Long Wyre Street, Colchester, offers a wealth of services, activities and support for the Colchester community.

A welcoming space where you can access a wide range of activities, programs, services, social and wellbeing activities.

The Hub hosts many different social groups throughout the week, including a Monday morning friendship group, a board games group, men’s and women’s groups, a variety of textiles activities and more.

Anyone is welcome to drop-in for advice and signposting and practical support. 

African Familes in the UK

AFiUK primarily exists to serve the interests of African and other ethnic minority families where the parents were born and educated overseas, while their children have been born in the UK, often creating a clash of cultural identities for all concerned. Particularly, these children and young people do not identify either with their parents’ culture, nor that of the UK; instead, they are evolving a new culture and identity, something that’s fresh and unique to themselves: a third culture. 

Colchester life in the UK
Colchester Anti Loo Roll Brigade 
Colchester Citizens Advice