Asylum Seekers, Refugees & Migrants

There are several agencies working in the Bradford area to support Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Migrants (click on the links in the list below for details). The Diocesan Adviser is Jackie Coutts, who can be contacted on 01535 643300 or by email for more information.

BEACON - Bradford Ecumenical Asylum Concern

BEACON befriends and provides practical support to Asylum Seekers and their families. They also help churches benefit from an influx of Asylum Seekers who have already made a difference to some of our congregations. BEACON'S sub-groups include:

McKenzie Friends: a service for people who do not have legal representation at Tribunals
CHAT (Churches Hospitality At Thornbury): hospitality project in Thornbury for people attending asylum tribunals, who travel from all over Yorkshire & Humberside.
Campaign Group: Supports local and national campaigns and can provide speakers and resources for churches and other meetings about the issues affecting asylum seekers and refugees.
Hosting: The Hosting Project aims to identify households within the Bradford District who, with support, are able to provide accommodation for destitute asylum seekers on a short or longer term basis
Church Links: A scheme to link churches with refugee families who need furniture and household goods is being developed

Further information on the BEACON website: www.beaconbradford.org

Bevan House / Mother’s Union

Bevan House in Sunbridge Road (in addition to a GP practice and a multi-discipline medical team) offers a range of support services to asylum seekers and refugees. The Mother’s Union provide practical help with the Mother and Baby clinic.
Email: mothersunion@bradford.anglican.org

Bradford Action for Refugees

Bradford Action for Refugees provides advice and family and community support.
Website: www.bafr.org.uk

The British Red Cross

The Red Cross in Bradford provides a family tracing service and food parcels for people in need.
Phone: 01274 223293
Website: www.redcross.org.uk

BIASAN (Bradford Immigration and Asylum Support & Advice Network)

BIASAN runs a weekly social evening, a Women’s Group, a homework club, and English lessons.
Contact: Jackie Coutts on 01535 643300, or by email.

Abigail Housing

Abigail Housing is developing accommodation in West Yorkshire for asylum seekers and refugees who are destitute.
Website: www.abigailhousing.org.uk

Treehouse / STAR (Student Action for Refugees)

Treehouse at 2 Ash Grove, opposite Bradford University, run a weekly drop in (termtime only) for asylum seekers to practice their English, or get support during an asylum claim.
Contact: Rev Chris Howson email