Refugee Stories UK: Successful Refugee Integration

Imagine being forced to leave your home country, to drop all your plans and start again somewhere entirely new. This is the reality for the thousands of refugees who have arrived in the UK over the last few years. But despite being displaced in unfamiliar surroundings, the people we’ve worked with have shown us time and again that they have the tenacity and ambition to start a new life in the UK.

Below are stories from people who we have had the pleasure of working with and have since settled and rebuilt their lives here in the UK – or forged a career helping others to do the same.

Fartun's Story

Fartun has completed two courses with ACH/Himilo and has also been a volunteer at our weekly Job Club since September 2018. Her confidence has increased massively and she has gained the skills needed to have recently been offered a full-time job.

Nicola who studied with Ashley Community Housing

Nicola's Story

Nicola went from being stuck in a dead-end job with no future career prospects, to working for a company where she can change her future and build a career with thanks to our Careers Team in Bristol.

Ahmad's Story

Coming to the UK from Syria, Ahmad has been with ACH since November 2016, receiving much-needed guidance and support offered by our Birmingham Support Team.

Myrielle gets job at coffee shop, Diplomats

Myrielle's Story

Myrielle recently took part in our Barista course in Birmingham. After completing the course and having her interview with local coffee shop, Diplomats, Myrielle was offered a part-time position as a Barista. Read her full story here.

Rehman's Story

Rehman moved from Pakistan to the UK just over a year ago and has recently had a reunion with his family. He came to the UK with skills, but a language barrier. Now he is working on his language and has his own home with his family. He hopes to start applying for jobs soon.

Sardar Majeed is a Himilo learner with ACH

Sardar's Story

Sardar has been living in the UK for the past two and half years and in that time he has achieved so much. Through Himilo courses Sardar has gained confidence and English language skills, enabling him to find employment.

Mariam's story

Mariam recently took part in a Starbucks Youth Action course we ran with UK Youth. She has gained valuable skills and confidence to help with her studies and career prospects.

Abbas's Story

I was born in the UK but left due to personal issues and stayed abroad for about 15 years before returning. Upon my return, it was really hard to settle. I searched for jobs endlessly for 9 months to no avail.

Kateryna's Story

In March 2022, my daughter and I arrived in Birmingham, escaping the war in Ukraine while my husband stayed behind for his patriotic duty. It was a long journey filled with many difficulties, including separation from my loved ones.

Inspirational stories