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Refugee Hub

Portsmouth City of Sanctuary (PCoS) launched the ‘Refugee Sanctuary Hub’ in 2021.

From September 2023, PCoS relocated the Refugee Hub part of our operations to All Saints Harbour Church, 

The Refugee Hub is a multi-agency collaboration with Citizens Advice Portsmouth, The Moving on Project, Vista, Portsmouth City Council Community Connectors, Aspex Gallery and Baby Basics.

We provide casework support, orientation support and signposting to key agencies in the City for refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants.

Immigration Advice is a regulated service and is provided by Citizens Advice Portsmouth who has OISC accreditation. We also offer English lessons within the Hub, as well as arts and crafts. The Hub at All Saints  runs every Monday morning. If you are an organisation working with migrants and need assistance please do not hesitate to email us at  [email protected].

The remaining projects and activities as part of our workspace on other days of the week will remain at St Luke’s.

Portsmouth City of Sanctuary runs a number of projects in Portsmouth for people seeking sanctuary such as asylum seekers and refugees.  Our projects promote integration, reduce social isolation and build skills through volunteering opportunities empowering individuals and promoting friendship and well-being.

Projects led by PCoS, range from Action Asylum which can be anything from gardening to filmmaking, Energise Me which includes strength & conditioning training, football, dance and boxing. The Welcome Box for new arrivals and the Welcome Wheels bicycle project give a friendly greeting and invite new asylum seekers to be part of the community. HAVEN is a female-only space, that has a programme of activities available to those who have suffered gender violence. English classes are free and open to everyone. Creative Community offers organisations and individual artists to form a strong community of Portsmouth asylum seekers and refugees proud to showcase their creative talents alongside members of the local community. Spaces of Sanctuary offers training to venues that want to be safe sanctuaries.

Asylum Seeker testimonial:

“I feel very happy. I have made friends and attend English classes at the Hub. My asylum claim is still with the Home Office. The caseworker at the Hub helped me to find a solicitor. I no longer feel lonely in the city.”

Health Visitor testimonial:

“I phoned everywhere to get specialist advice for my client. I am very pleased that she received help and guidance from the PCoS Refugee Hub.”

Non-statutory agency testimonial:

“PCoS diverse partnerships and knowledge in the city gives me confidence when referring clients for advice and support with them. Many of our clients can now access English lessons in the heart of the city whilst making friends and connecting with local support services. Their volunteers and staff are friendly and knowledgeable.”