West End Refugee Service (WERS) Buddying scheme

Can you think of a time when you or someone you know was new to a place? Maybe you didn’t speak the language, and you didn’t know others there? Do you remember how meaningful it was to receive some kindness from others, a smiling face and someone to show you around?

WERS run a buddying scheme for people with lived experience of seeking sanctuary in Newcastle who are feeling isolated.  Volunteer buddies undergo training and support from our Volunteer Project staff team, and are matched with someone for anything between 3-12 months, meeting for a few hours every 1-2 weeks, to help them get to know the city, find the places and activities they would like to go to, and help build confidence with navigating around. Time spent together is also an opportunity to talk and offer emotional support during what can be a tough time.  

They are always looking for new buddies – especially men, and especially those with language skills in a wide range of different languages ranging from Arabic to Farsi and Spanish – any of the community languages that are spoken in Newcastle.

If you have some time to volunteer with them, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / 07786 620 672