Refugee mentoring scheme

The Refugee Mentoring Project offers targeted one-to-one support to HIV positive refugees (including asylum seekers and refused asylum seekers) living in London who need practical help and emotional support.

The service is completely confidential, and is provided to refugees aged 18 or over in their own homes, or in another safe community space, by trained and CRB-checked volunteers. The project aims to support and enable people to lead as independent a life as possible.

By volunteering you could make a real difference to refugees such as George, a 40-year-old man from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here Tom, one of our volunteer mentors, tells George’s story:

'George had been sleeping outdoors in the courtyard of a London church for a week when I met him for the first time in September 2010. He had been granted Indefinite Leave to Remain after 10 years of seeking asylum in the UK in February 2010 and, following a breakdown in his relationship and difficulty accessing mainstream benefits, he found himself homeless.

'He was depressed, cold and struggling to store vital medication. After securing emergency shelter for a few nights, we managed to obtain temporary social housing. Some four months later, after a great deal of effort George obtained permanent accommodation.

'I now support George in his efforts to remain healthy and re-build his life through study, volunteering and applying for work. George has a great deal to offer our society and it is a great shame he remained isolated, insecure and in limbo for 10 years.

'He is proud to now be British and I feel humbled, proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to be part of George’s life over the last 14 months.'

*not his real name

If you would like to apply to become a part of this pioneering project, please contact the Volunteer Office on 020 7812 1721 or email volunteeroffice@tht.org.uk.