This project is based on a model, which was first developed by Leeds Thomas Danby, called Welcome to Leeds and won a National Beacon Award.  The model was further developed through Single Pot funding and offered in a range of other Leeds based venues.  It incorporated a range of drop in support sessions and a range of activities through partnership with RETAS ( Refugee Education Training and Advice Service) and other agencies working closely with asylum seekers, refugees and recently settled, which assisted in  the settling in process. 

Funding for this project cannot be accessed through mainstream activity since the majority of the outcomes are soft outcomes or relate to welfare and support.  The IMPaCT SSCF funding will provide an internet café model which was a popular support service run for asylum seekers and refugees to prepare them for language learning and use of ICT as a learning tool. It will also provide access to blackboard based ESOL resources to enhance language learning.  In addition drop in facilities will assist the settling in process by providing basic English and information about life in Britain in safe and comfortable spaces where people can be encouraged to progress their language learning. 

This will be delivered on college premises with childcare support.  These essential infrastructure services are essential if asylum seekers and refugees are going to adjust to their new lives in Britain, by providing a support framework for those who are isolated, lack confidence and self esteem and an essential befriending service.    The project will further develop the Welcome to Leeds model, build on existing good practice and fully complement mainstream ESOL delivery.
 
The project aims: 
 
To develop and deliver a support mechanism for Asylum Seekers and Refugees and recently settled building on the Welcome to Leeds model.

Consolidate Internet café provision to provide taught and drop in sessions in our dedicated  basic skills IT suite  and Enfield Centre and give  clients the skills  to access support agencies and language learning facilities via the internet or Blackboard.

Support drop in facility to provide advice, guidance, support.

Set up ‘settling in’ session for students who are waiting or ineligible to access language provision.

Provide a range of social and cultural activities including visits, cookery, football and arts.
 
The college guidance worker and counselling service will provide input into settling in, and drop in sessions at specific times to assist in the progression of all learners from an informal to a formal learning situation and to access wider support available in the city for personal and social needs.

Ann Marie Spry
Leeds Thomas Danby College
0113 284 6490