Image - Refugees Welcome CROP
We are deeply saddened to see the recent and emerging situation in Afghanistan and we know that many people want to support the refugees that have arrived in the UK.  It's a changing situation and there will be an ongoing need for help.
Richmond CVS is maintaining frequent contact with London Plus, who are engaged with the Voluntary and Community Sector Emergencies Partnership on behalf of London organisations, as well as Richmond Council who are committed to supporting refugee resettlement.
We are monitoring advice and information from local support organisations, such as Afghanistan and Central Asian Association and Refugee Action Kingston, and have seen extraordinary community support and mobilisation at very local level.
Individuals can also follow aid organisations and community groups on social media for very local and/or urgent activities.
As the situation develops, we will continue to share new information and updates via our social media.
Urgent requests for practical items and volunteer support appears to have been met by overwhelming immediate response.  Anyone wishing to assist in a future local volunteering role can register with our Volunteer Service to be advised of new opportunities as they arise.

Join the Volunteer Database

Register on our volunteering database and we can let you know of new opportunities to help

Register here

Get Involved with a Community Sponsorship Group

Community Sponsorship is a refugee resettlement programme with local people at its heart.

Find out more here

 Support a local charity

The main local charities offering support at the moment are:

Afghanistan and Central Asian Association - based in Hounslow, they provide support, skills and knowledge to help communities in the UK.

Refugee Action Kingston - supporting refugees in Kingston and surrounding areas with advice, counselling, training and more.

Both have 'wish lists' for items but the best way to help at the moment is likely to be financial donations to help them deliver their work.

Support a national charity

There are many charities contributing to the national response that you can donate to.  Some suggestions are listed below:

AfghanAid                         British Red Cross                         Choose Love                International Rescue  Committee                   Muslim Aid 

Refugee Action               Refugee Council                          Save the Children      Tearfund                         Women for Women International

Campaign and advocate

You can write to your local MP, add your voice to petitions such as those led Amnesty International or Save the Children, join campaigns and events and share news.

Food and Hygiene Banks

By donating to local food banks and hygiene banks, you could also be helping local refugees in need of essential every day provisions.

Housing

If you are a private landlord and can supply a secure and safe home for refugees, you could rent your property through Richmond Council.  Get in touch with the Temporary Accommodation team by calling 020 8871 7333 or  email them on landlordlettings@richmond.gov.uk.

Support for veterans

The UK government has collated a range of information and support to help members of the armed forces who are struggling as a result of the recent events in Afghanistan. Visit the webpage by clicking here.