Become a community sponsor for refugees

Community sponsorship allows local groups to directly welcome and support resettled refugee families, helping them settle faster into their new lives in the UK.

What it involves and the benefits

Being a community sponsor allows you to:

  • actively participate in helping refugees settle in the UK
  • provide both emotional and practical support to empower refugee families to rebuild their lives in safety
  • assist refugees in becoming self-sufficient members of their new community - this includes helping them navigate essential services, find housing

Being a sponsor benefits not only the refugees but also the local community. It fosters generosity among local people and creates new bonds between those involved.

You can find more information about the programme on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees website

How to become a sponsor

If you’re thinking about becoming a community sponsor, get in touch with us to discuss your plans. Property for use by incoming refugees needs to be agreed with us along with the integration plan prior to Home Office sign off.

Email: refugee.support@cumberland.gov.uk

To become a sponsor, you must meet certain criteria and complete an application.

Details of the process and how to apply can be found on GOV.UK