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Elmbridge CAN has helped hundreds of families to build new lives in Elmbridge. Here you can read some of their stories and find out how we've contributed.  Stories Elmbridge CAN has helped hundreds of families to build new lives in Elmbridge. Here you can read about how it all started, as well as some stories about people we've worked with and how we've contributed. Myra's story The family left Damascus when the bombs came too close to home in 2017. They walked overnight to reach Turkey, before eventually being resettled by the UK government almost a year later. Read Myra's story Hasina's story Hasina was the Afghan Minister for Women's Affairs when the Taliban took power. She survived two assassination attempts, and had to make the difficult decision to flee Afghanistan with her family. Hasina's story is one of survival and rebuilding her life. Find out more "Education is my way to survive" Imagine arriving to live in a new country with no knowledge of the language. A few years later, you are studying at university, with clear career goals. This is the story of Ali, Mohammed and Ayram. Find out more Nadia's story Following her flight from Saudi Arabia, Nadia spent seven months living in a small hotel room in Stevenage, until finally she found a host in Elmbridge. But still there were problems to overcome. Read her story here. Find out more Ukrainian sunflowers From arriving in the UK with next to nothing, to establishing a successful gardening business. Read how three Ukrainian women have joined forces and rebuilt their lives in Elmbridge. Find out more Elmbridge CAN saved me. It's like when you are so terribly anxious, and then suddenly everything gets better. I was showered with kindness. I cannot thank them enough. Nadia

From arriving in the UK with next to nothing, to establishing a successful business. Read how three Ukrainian women have joined forces and rebuilt their lives in Elmbridge Hasina's story There is an expression in Afghanistan which translates literally as ‘they have my shoulder’ – in English it’s probably ‘they have my back’. This is how Hasina Safi describes Elmbridge CAN. “They really have been a light of hope; they are bringing fuel back to my engine.” Meeting Hasina Safi, today it is clear that she was quite a driving force in Kabul before the Taliban seized power in 2021. Virtually all of Hasina’s career has been spent promoting the abilities and role of women. Four years ago, she worked at government level as Minister of Women Affairs. August 15th 2021, the day the Taliban seized Kabul, is cemented in Hasina’s and many Afghans’ memories. Things moved very quickly as she realised that their promise of respecting women’s rights would be instantly and completely ignored. It was clear that within a few days there was a directive to assassinate Hasina. Whomever she stayed with was put in extreme danger. Hasina reluctantly knew she and the family had to leave the country to survive, but it was not an easy decision. She had 10 family members to consider including her two disabled children. “I was not scared for myself, I was worried. Scared for my children. It’s very tough to be a mother, very tough. Only those who have children will understand.” The situation at Kabul airport during late August 2021 has taken its place in history. Many international news agencies were there to document the mass of humanity trying to escape, even in some cases attempting to cling on to aircraft as they taxied before take-off. Equally tragic scenes were unfolding just outside the perimeter gates. This is where Hasina and her family were instructed to go. The British FCO and the UN had sent her a pass with strict instructions not to tell anyone. At this point in her account Hasina’s voice drops to a whisper as she fights back tears. ‘It was terrible, terrible. You would see people with their passports saying ‘I have worked with you’ – but there were no human rights. None. People and children were lying on the ground.” During that time she still did not know if they would all make it. Suddenly a US soldier saw her phone light up in orange thanks to a special code sent from the UK. They were inside the perimeter gates and safe. Eventually, the family arrived in the UK and was taken to a hotel in Thames Ditton alongside other refugees. Hasina remembers ElmbridgeCAN being there to help from day one, identifying everyone’s needs. She remembers the moment she met Jeannie Tweedie very clearly. “I talked with her, I cried with her and that was the time that I really saw that Jeannie was a person who could understand women in conflict.” Those were difficult days. There was another incident that Hasina recalls with a smile. Her son Hamzah was invited to play football with other refugee teenagers. Because of her high-level position back in Afghanistan, Hasina’s children were isolated for security reasons and not allowed out unaccompanied. Their mother had already survived two attempts on her life, so sending her son out into the dark Thursday evening in winter was not an option. However, Elmbridge CAN convinced her that not only would it be safe, but it would also be a step forward in everyone’s recovery. Hasina now accepts just how important it was for everyone that her son joined in. There were classes on offer organised by Elmbridge CAN: English, embroidery and computer lessons. Four years on and Hasina’s mother-in-law is still enjoying the sewing machine presented by Elmbridge CAN, openly admitting that the sewing which she loved back home, has supported her in her recovery from the trauma. The family finally settled in Walton-on-Thames. “That was the time that Elmbridge CAN really shouldered me. They looked after me personally, and they gave me a hand. They provided a volunteer for my elder daughter who has a brain injury. And also, for my younger daughter who is autistic and has DiGeorge syndrome.” This is a condition which means (amongst other disabilities) she has difficulties walking. Elmbridge CAN provided a volunteer to take her for walks, so that Hasina (as she puts it) is “released” for a while from worrying about her. Then there were the maths and chemistry lessons for son Hamsah. It is clear that Hasina is a very strong woman who has spent nearly all her life helping others. And when she needed help, Elmbridge CAN was there for her. “I don’t have the words to thank Elmbridge CAN for the patience, the understanding, the solidarity, the love and the care that they have provided, not only for me and my family, but for the whole refugee group that was in the hotel.”

We support forcibly displaced people in the Surrey borough of Elmbridge and surrounding area About us We support forcibly displaced people in the Surrey borough of Elmbridge and surrounding area Every day, millions of people are forced to leave their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. These individuals face unimaginable hardships - loss of home, separation from loved ones, and uncertainty about the future. Founded in 2016, at the height of the Syrian refugee crisis, Elmbridge CAN exists to welcome and support forcibly displaced people who have found their way to the borough of Elmbridge. Our charity is committed to providing such people with practical help, dignity and hope as they rebuild their lives here, based on our common humanity. However, we recognise that this can't happen without a collaborative, cross-community effort. We facilitate this within the Borough of Elmbridge - bringing together volunteers, businesses, community groups, schools, other charities and the local authority. We are proud to stand in solidarity with forcibly displaced people and believe that collectively, the residents and neighbours of Elmbridge CAN make a difference. Our team Who we work with Impact report Stories Contact us Latest news Our aims 1. Improving lives in Elmbridge We provide small grants and a range of services which foster social inclusion and wellbeing for forcibly displaced people in the borough of Elmbridge and surrounding area. 2. Raising awareness Through our community outreach activity, we advance the education of the public in general about the issues relating to forcibly displaced people. Read more in our Constitution . Our support roadmap In all cases we are guided by our “support roadmap”, which illustrates the process from arrival to becoming a fully contributing, thriving member of the community. "A group of us met up in a pub to work out what we could do" Read about the journey of Elmbridge CAN since it began in response to the Syrian refugee crisis of 2015, based on an interview with our founder and co-director, Jeannie. Find out more Volunteer with us We are always looking for keen volunteers, particularly those with relevant skills. Find out more Stay in touch Sign up for our newsletters to receive quarterly updates on our work. Find out more I am deeply grateful for every gesture: for taking the time to talk to me, for the clothes, for the support to continue my studies... All of this has been invaluable to me and has had a tremendous impact on my life. Thanks to you, I've been able to stay calm and move forward, even within the constraints of the asylum process, which often makes me feel limited. CM

We have a large network of volunteers who come from all walks of life and have different expertise, but they all share a passion to use their skills to support our displaced community. Volunteer We have a large network of volunteers who come from all walks of life and have different expertise, but they all share a passion to use their skills to support our displaced community. We couldn’t do what we do without their help. We want all our volunteers to feel valued and supported and to enjoy the experience. We hold regular volunteer get-togethers and training sessions, and offer support and supervision as needed. Volunteering with Elmbridge CAN and especially Oxana and her family has been incredibly rewarding for me. I have not only developed a great new connection but I also feel a sense of purpose and usefulness in being able to impart my local knowledge and use my network to help such a lovely, hard-working family. Charlotte We are always looking for new volunteers, particularly those who can fill our current vacancies - see list below. If you’re interested in any of these roles, please complete our application form . If your profile doesn’t match any of these roles but you’re enthusiastic and committed, please fill in the form anyway and we’ll be in touch for an informal chat about how you could contribute. We're sorry but we can't generally accept applications from under 18s (except in very limited circumstances where they are accompanied by a parent). Current volunteer vacancies Teaching roles We're especially in need of volunteer teachers and classroom assistants to meet the strong demand for English language learning - a key factor in helping our clients integrate and thrive. You don't need teaching experience to be a classroom assistant, as you would be paired up with one of our established teachers. If you're an experienced teacher of GCSE level Maths, English, Science, and/or any A level subjects, we'd also love to hear from you. We would also consider young adult tutors who have recently sat these exams. Finally, please reach out if you’d like to help our clients learn basic digital skills and gain confidence using everyday technology. Handypersons If you have good DIY skills and some time to spare, we'd love to hear from you! We often help people setting up new homes, with practical matters such as building or adapting furniture and putting up curtains. This is a valuable role which makes a real difference to families. Van owners We are always looking for drivers with vans or large vehicles to help with house moves or ad hoc deliveries. Please let us know if this could be you. Translators and interpreters We are always keen to hear from prospective volunteers with knowledge of the main languages spoken by our clients, such as Ukrainian, Russian, Arabic, Farsi, Pashto or Dari. Volunteer expenses We recognise that volunteers will incur expenses and we aim to reimburse all reasonable expenses as swiftly and simply as possible, while maintaining adequate controls. To find out more, please read our volunteer expense policy . Elmbridge CAN has made a big difference to me and my family. Many, many thanks to all the volunteers. Oxana

The history of Elmbridge CAN since it started in 2015. Myra's story Myra and her two children, Yasmin and Hassan, were three of the most vulnerable displaced people to join our community after fleeing the Syrian War. We have changed their names to protect their identities, as Myra has been subjected to domestic abuse from her former husband. The family left Damascus when the bombs came too close to home in 2017. After travelling to the border town of Idlib, they walked overnight to reach Turkey, before eventually being resettled by the UK government almost a year later. As a consequence of the abusive relationship, Myra and her two children were forced to move around the UK before they were able to find a safe haven in Surrey. Elmbridge CAN played a key role in supporting them through this nomadic existence until they finally secured social housing. The charity provided continuous support throughout the ordeal, including one-to-one English lessons, financial assistance, food bank vouchers, help with visa and immigration matters, and – perhaps most importantly - emotional support. The vulnerability of the family was accentuated by the language barrier, and it was in this field that Huda stepped in to become the crucial go-between that enabled the family to rebuild their shattered lives. Huda has lived in Oxshott for over three decades. After moving to London from Saudi Arabia, she then left the city for the Surrey town and set up an interior design business and also worked in the local flower shop on the high street. During her time here she has worked as an Arabic translator on an ad hoc basis. “I got a call from the council as there had been a case of domestic abuse towards the mother and the family,” Huda explains.” They had been put in emergency accommodation in West Molesey for six weeks. I met them and saw how vulnerable they were. I spoke to Jeannie from Elmbridge CAN, the charity was doing so much to support them. From there they moved to Croydon. Displaced people become very anxious each time you move them around. I visited them in Croydon and after three months, after speaking to the council, we managed to secure a room for them at a hotel nearer where Hassan was having English lessons. They stayed there for four months and then from there we got a one-bed place in Thames Ditton before finally moving on to Oxshott. Volunteers from Elmbridge CAN had been helping with English lessons and Hassan’s English improved massively.” “In the beginning it was so hard,” Hassan adds. “We’ve been in so many areas. We started out in Preston and then moved to places like Kingston, London and Croydon, just waiting for housing. I have worked in a restaurant and a factory. I would do any job with no experience needed. The home and the area we have found now are nice, I love it. I got a bicycle from Elmbridge CAN that really helps me travel around.” Older sister Yasmin has moved out of the home and is now building an independent life as a young adult. Myra still struggles with the language, but with Hassan and Huda’s support she finally feels settled and secure. “Myra really wants to contribute and she has found work as a carer and is also doing some shifts as a cleaner,” Huda continues. “They have been able to pay their way and the council has found some social housing in Oxshott. Hassan is making great progress with English and after being so vulnerable beforehand, with so much fear from the war and their domestic abuse, they now feel secure and capable.” “We are hard-working, and Syrians are very resilient,” Myra says. “We have been through so much. No matter how many times we fall, we bring ourselves up.” With the support of Elmbridge CAN and individuals like Huda, the family have finally been able to put a traumatic past behind them and can look to the future with hope and belief. “I want to be a hairdresser,” Hassan, now aged 22, reveals. “I have got a set of clippers and I am practising giving haircuts to my friends. In the beginning they didn’t trust me but when I showed them I could do it they gave me a chance. I would love to get a job doing that in Oxshott.” “I know so many people here, who are extremely genuine and want to help when I tell them about Elmbridge CAN,” Huda concludes. “I have been really happy living here, it’s so relaxed and a lovely, friendly environment. I think Myra and Hassan are feeling this, too.”

Elmbridge CAN provides positive action for refugees. We are a community-based, volunteer-powered charity located in Elmbridge, Surrey, UK. Our mission is to welcome and support people fleeing terror in their home countries, enabling them to build a new life in Britain. Welcome We support forcibly displaced people in the Surrey borough of Elmbridge and surrounding area Elmbridge CAN is a community-based, volunteer-powered charity located in Elmbridge, Surrey, UK. Our mission is to welcome and support people fleeing terror in their home countries, enabling them to build a new life in Britain. About us Get help Get involved What's on Find out about our classes to learn English, opportunities to meet people and ways to access our support. Find out more Ukrainian sunflowers Read the inspiring story of three Ukrainian women who set up their own gardening company. Find out more Latest news Here you can read our newsletters and find other interesting and relevant articles and updates. Find out more Make a difference From hosting to donating or volunteering, there are plenty of ways to get involved in Elmbridge. Find out more I’ve met incredible people here who are like angels, and this place feels so safe because of all you do. You never hold back on any help or support. NM

Information about housing for displaced people in Elmbridge Housing Elmbridge CAN can't provide housing but we can advise you on your options and we can sometimes help you look for accommodation in the private rent sector. For Ukrainians, we can try to 'rematch' you with a new host. Read on for more information. Please note that most of the information below is relevant only if you have permission to remain in the UK. For information about the asylum system in the UK including financial support see Right to Remain . Can I get my own accommodation from the council? Social housing in the UK is in very short supply, especially for larger households, and particularly in Elmbridge as it is an expensive area and there is a shortage of housing. There are very long waiting lists for social housing. If you are in danger of homelessness and are in a priority group where the council has a duty to help you, then they may be able to support you with emergency accommodation. This may be in a bed and breakfast and it may be outside of Elmbridge. You can find out more information including how to apply for social housing on the council’s website here Elmbridge Borough Council - Housing . How can I get my own accommodation? Whether you have children or not, your Universal Credit benefit can include help with rental costs, also known as Housing Benefit. The Housing Benefit allowance was increased in Elmbridge in April 2024. You can check out the local Housing Benefit allowance here . Depending on your circumstances, Elmbridge Borough Council may also be able to help you with finding rental accommodation. See Find a place to live . You can also look at websites like Rightmove for a property to rent. Being in employment can sometimes help with securing accommodation. Finding housing can be hard. It is important to be persistent and not lose hope. Our charity doesn't offer a property search service but if you are homeless or vulnerably housed, Rentstart is a local charity which has a very useful guide to renting privately on low incomes. Rentstart primarily helps people who are not on the council’s priority list, such as single adults without children. In the UK, many younger single people, or couples, form a group with friends to rent accommodation together. See also these useful guides for Ukrainians on how to rent property in the UK in Ukrainian and Russian . Discretionary housing payments available for housing are occasionally available from Elmbridge Council: Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) . For Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme: how can I change my host? We are working closely with Elmbridge Council to help ensure that re-matches can be arranged where there is a priority need for this, for example if there is a medical need or if there is an irreversible breakdown in relationships. Please get in touch with us if you think this might apply to you, by emailing contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk or coming to one of our hubs (see our What’s on page ). There may also be ways that we can help you resolve differences with your original host family.

Elmbridge CAN offers a range of free activities specifically designed for displaced people. What's on Elmbridge CAN offers a range of free activities specifically designed for displaced people. There are lots of other sports, social and cultural activities that you can participate in - many of them free of charge - in your local area. Elmbridge CAN activities We offer regular drop-in English classes during term-time, as well as a weekly hub where displaced people can come to ask questions and access our support. For more information and to register with us please email contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk . Other activities in the community Gym and swimming Running and walking Yoga Tennis For teenagers Cycling Cultural activities Gym and swimming Gym memberships, swimming and exercise classes are available at the XCel Leisure Complex and Hurst Pool . They offer a free 3-month membership for displaced people. After the initial 3 months, you can get a 20% discount on membership. There is a women-only swimming session on Saturdays 18.00-19.00 at Hurst Pool. Back to top Running and walking Parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog or run 5 kilometres (or volunteer or spectate). It takes place every Saturday morning at 9.00 across multiple locations. Our Parks also offer free running and fitness classes in parks across the UK. Back to top Special group activities Elmbridge Borough Council Our local council runs different wellbeing activities, as well as specialist groups for resettled people. You can join in activites such as local walks, tennis, yoga and cricket. Find out more and get involved. Mary Frances Trust Mary Frances Trust is a charity which offers wellbeing activities, such as yoga and walking, community groups and courses throughout the year. Find out more about the Mary Frances Trust and how to register for their activities. Women's groups Some local groups meet and are a safe environment for women and children only. Multi-Connections group Holy Trinity Claygate Church, KT10 0JP Alternate Saturdays in term-time 11.00 -12.30 Sisterhood group Wednesdays 12.30-14.30 St John's Church Walton, KT12 3JQ Yoga Yoga is more than just an exercise class. It has been proven to help with trauma symptoms. The local classes below offer a discount for displaced people (see also Mary Frances Trust above). Sport in Mind charity offers free yoga at the Xcel Leisure Centre on a Wednesday 12-1pm. You can sign up here . Yoga with Ruth in Weybridge Yoga with Florendia in Walton and Weybridge Yoga with Uzma in Cobham Back to top Tennis Displaced people in Elmbridge (and any Elmbridge residents in receipt of benefits) are eligible for a FREE tennis pass to use at any of the 12 sites operated by Parks Tennis in Elmbridge. Send an email to sign up: parkstennis@elmbridge.gov.uk . Back to top For teenagers There are a number of activities that are run especially for teens. Here are some of the local schemes - many of which are free of charge. Virtual youth space for Ukrainian kids: sessions run from 18.00 to 19.00 on the first and third Thursday of every month. For more information e-mail: ukrainiansupport@barnardos.org.uk . Football with Chelsea FC: free football training for boys and girls from age 11-17, in a variety of locations across Surrey. It is run by Premier League Kicks, funded by the Premier League through the Premier League Charitable Fund. Complete the form here (y o u can select a time and location). XCel Leisure Complex in Walton runs drop-in sessions for teens age 11-16. Contact them direct for more information. Claygate Youth and Community Hub provides free sessions for teens on Tuesdays 18.00-20.00 and Thursdays 19.00 to 21.00. They also offer youth sport sessions on Wednesdays from 18.00 to 19.30. See their website for full details. Foley Boxing Club for both boys and girls, is run by the Metropolitan Police at Imber Court, Molesey KT8 0BT. There is a charge of £5 per class, but ask for a concession if you cannot afford it. Please contact Lee Martin on 07957 829030 for more information and to book. Back to top Cycling We often get bikes donated and we can also teach people how to ride if required. Bikes are subject to availability. Please send an email to materials@elmbridgecan.org.uk to let us know your needs - age, height etc. Back to top Cultural activities Hampton Court Palace offers £1 tickets for eligible individuals. For more information and to book online visit their website . Many galleries and museums in London are free to visit. There are so many to choose from. Visit London has lots of ideas and suggestions for cheap days out. If you need help accessing any of the services on this page, then please get in touch. Back to top

This page gives important information to help you find a job. You can also get help from our employment volunteers - contact us or attend one of our hubs to access this support.  Employment It can be daunting trying to find a job in the UK, with systems and a working culture that may be very different to those in your home country. This page gives important information to help you find a job. You can also get help from our employment volunteers - contact us or attend one of our hubs to access this support. Some key steps to success 1. Learn English as quickly as you can This is the most important thing you can do to help you integrate into the local community. 2. Think about your long-term and short-term goals Is there a way to build your interests into your work? 3. Consider training while you are learning English or waiting to find employment Speak to your Job Centre coach about free courses on offer. 4. Prepare a good CV Here are some tips to get you started. 5. Interview Practice Practice makes perfect. Get help to improve your interview skills. 6. Work Experience Having some UK work experience can really boost your CV. By volunteering or doing work experience for free, you can improve your network and it could offer you a way into paid employment. 7. Get online Most recruitment in the UK takes place online and it is important to have some basic IT skills to search for jobs and submit applications online. Local colleges and the Job Centre can help you find a course to improve your skills. 8. Persevere Try not to be too disheartened if you get many rejections or do not hear back after submitting a job application. Looking for a job There are many different ways to find a job. This can vary depending on the type of company or industry you are looking to work in. Generally, large international companies will recruit through their websites or use recruitment agencies, whereas smaller businesses may find staff through word of mouth or by direct approaches. We have collated information about different ways you can find a job. Find out more here: Online recruitment websites Company websites Linked In Ask people you know The DWP Job Centre Recruitment agencies Specialist roles Construction industry Types of employment Employment contracts UK Employment law regulates the relationship between employers and employees. It governs what employers can expect from employees, what employers can ask employees to do, and employees’ rights at work. For more information about Employee rights, please refer to ACAS . Self employment For some people self employment may be the best option. Your skills or your family commitments may mean this works for you. For example, job roles such as gardeners, taxi drivers and photographers often work in this way as they have many clients. Being self employed offers: The chance to choose your own work schedule Self-agency and accountability Personal connection with customers Independence, freedom, being one’s own boss Direct payment from clients There are a number of things you need to consider when setting up a business in the UK. Take a look at this government guide Working for yourself - GOV.UK . You can also seek advice from the Job Centre; business support services and training providers like the The Rebel School . Overseas qualifications You may wish to continue working in a similar role to your former job in your home country. To do this, employers may ask you to provide translated copies of your certificates and qualification equivalency, so your employer can see how your qualifications equate to qualifications in the UK. Sometimes, an employer will do this for you, however, it is often useful to be prepared and have this ready yourself, so you know if your qualifications are correct for a specific job role. ENIC is the UK National Information Centre for the recognition and evaluation of international qualifications and skills and they offer a statement of comparability service. Translation and Certification services: There are many organisations that offer these services. If you require a recommendation, please contact us. UK Education levels When joining a course like ESOL classes at a college, the admissions team will be keen to identify your existing level of English or your qualifications. Many courses and job descriptions will also ask for a specific level of qualifications, for example, GCSEs or equivalent Level 2 qualifications or a Level 3 qualification. This website gives guidance on what the different qualifications mean: What qualification levels mean: England, Wales and Northern Ireland - GOV.UK Apprenticeships Apprenticeships are an alternative way to employment that offer you the opportunity to train as you work, so you can earn a salary while gaining a qualification. Apprenticeships are offered at various levels from school leaver (Level 2 / 3) to Degree apprenticeships (Level 6). They are available in a variety of industries including business, accountancy, healthcare, construction, hairdressing and many more. For further information on how apprenticeships work and different opportunities available please visit the government apprentice information page . Common barriers to work Childcare: For the latest information on how to find childcare and get help paying for it and what to do if your circumstances change, please refer to Get childcare: step by step - GOV.UK . Cost of finding a job: There are costs to finding work that you may find difficult to pay for, for example, work / interview clothing or travel to interviews. The DWP has funds that may be able to support you with these expenses. Please speak to your Job Centre work coach. Loss of benefits: You should not have a lower income by going to work. For up to date information, please check the government’s Universal Credit webpage. Disability support: Surrey County Council offer a supported employment programme called Work Wise. Work Wise is a free employment service available to any person with a mental or physical health condition, disability, or neurodivergence, who wants to work. Find out more on their website . Long term unemployment: Restart is a programme offered by the Job Centre, specifically for individuals who have been out of work for more than 12 months. If you think you are eligible for this programme and would like the opportunity to join, please contact your work coach. If you have any specific questions that are not answered here, please attend one of our drop-in hubs or get in touch by email at contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk and we will connect you with one of our employment volunteers. Looking for a job There are many different ways to find a job. This can vary depending on the type of company or industry you are looking to work in. Generally, large international companies will recruit through their websites or use recruitment agencies, whereas smaller businesses may find staff through word of mouth or by direct approaches. We have collated information about different ways you can find a job. Find out more below. Online recruitment websites Many job vacancies are advertised through online recruitment websites. Think about the keywords you put in to search engines like Google to ensure you find the most suitable job vacancies for you. Reed - Jobs and Recruitment on Reed.co.uk, the UK's #1 job site Indeed - Finding a job | Indeed.com Total Jobs - Jobs are our job | Totaljobs Back to top Company websites Most companies and international organisations advertise their job vacancies on their own websites. Search on the internet for companies you know and look on their careers pages. For example: www.jobsatamazon.co.uk www.tesco-careers.com/search-and-apply https://costacareers.co.uk Careers at P&G United Kingdom Back to top Linked In LinkedIn is an extremely popular online professional network that you can use to search for a job. If you set up a LinkedIn profile, you can then use LinkedIn to find the right job or internship, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn professional skills. Here’s some help with how to set up a profile: How to use LinkedIn 7 Tips On How To Use LinkedIn For Beginners Back to top Ask people you know Most companies and international organisations advertise their job vacancies on their own websites. Search on the internet for companies you know and look on their careers pages. For example: www.jobsatamazon.co.uk www.tesco-careers.com/search-and-apply https://costacareers.co.uk Careers at P&G United Kingdom Back to top The DWP Job Centre The Job Centre works with local employers and training providers to try to help people into work. Attend their job fairs, speak to your work coach and look at the notice boards in the Centre for the latest opportunities. Back to top Recruitment agencies Recruitment agencies can be national or local and offer job vacancies across many industry sectors. They can also specialise in a specific sector. Local agencies give you the opportunity to meet with the recruiters in person and will often have vacancies in the immediate area. National recruiters Request a call back | Michael Page External job board - AMS Examples of specialist recruiters HomeOrganisers | Housekeeper and Nanny Placements - HomeOrganisers Manufacturing & Engineering Recruitment | Martin Veasey Talent Solutions Health and Social Care Jobs | Search Jobs | Safehands Recruitment Milkround | Graduate Jobs, Schemes & Internships Surrey recruitment agencies March Recruitment Leading Recruitment Agency in Surrey & Sussex | The Recruitment Consultancy Back to top Specialist roles Specialist roles may require a different approach when searching for a job. For example, medical professionals, dentists, and teachers may need to undertake a period of retraining to practice in the UK. In the first instance, it is useful to approach the industry regulators to understand the process you must follow for your profession. General Medical Council: Full registration for international medical graduates - GMC General Dental Council: Overseas Registration Examination British Dental Association: Overseas dentists working in the UK Teaching for Internationally qualified teachers: A fairer approach to awarding QTS to overseas teachers - GOV.UK Apply for qualified teacher status (QTS) if you teach outside the UK - GOV.UK For some there are opportunities to receive loans or grants to help fund your training, exams and fees. Take a look at these organisations to see if you are eligible: Ruth Hayman Trust ReAccreditation Loans— RefuAid Back to top Construction industry Construction workers must complete a CSCS course to acquire a card to authorise them to work on building sites in the UK. These courses vary by profession ie plumbers, bricklayers, labourers etc, however the key focus is on ensuring best health and safety practice on site. Applying for CSCS cards | Official CSCS Website Back to top

Information about managing your finances in the UK - covering benefits, council tax, assistance with costs related to children, and other sources of support. Finance This page provides information about managing your finances in the UK - covering benefits, council tax, assistance with costs related to children, and other sources of support. You may also qualify for a small emergency grant from Elmbridge CAN - read on for more details. Please note that most of the information below is only relevant if you have permission to remain in the UK. For information about the UK asylum system, including related financial support, see Right to Remain . UK Benefits System If you have access to public funds in the UK, including if you have refugee status or are here under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, and you are on a low income, you can get help from the benefits system. You can find information about how to apply for Universal Credit on this government website: Universal Credit . To get information about what help you might be entitled to, you can use a benefits calculator such as Tackling Financial Insecurity Together or Benefits Calculator . If you don't yet have a UK bank account: If a claimant does not have a bank account at the time they are making a new claim to Universal Credit and if there is no option to say they don't have a bank account, the following steps should be followed: during the new claim add 6 zeros (000000) for the sort code and 8 zeros (00000000) for the bank account number - this will need to be done 4 times to progress the claim. If you are receiving Universal Credit, it is very important to keep them informed of any changes of circumstance you have, such as a new address or a new job. Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to get short-term additional help with rental costs from Elmbridge Borough Council through a discretionary housing payment. Information is available on the Elmbridge Council website: Discretionary Housing Payment . Help with Council Tax Council tax is payable on all rented or privately owned houses in the UK. You can find details about how to set up an account on the Elmbridge Council website: Council Tax . Homes for Ukraine Scheme guests are entitled to a 50% discount on their council tax in Elmbridge - you need to let the Council know that you would like to apply for this. All those on low incomes and with recourse to public funds are also able to apply for a council tax discount via the council's website: Council Tax Support . There are also discounts available to all single adult households - you can apply for this via your online account with Elmbridge Borough Council. Additional Sources of Support You can find a list of organisations in Surrey which can help with the cost of living here: Cost of living support . Elmbridge CAN small grants These grants are available on a discretionary basis to forcibly displaced people who are living in Elmbridge and are registered with us. We generally prioritise people with no access to public funds, such as asylum seekers. Grants may be available where there is emergency hardship, or for short-term needs such as school uniform or ESOL class fees. We can also sometimes help with material items such as bikes, and laptops where these are needed for essential study or similar. Please get in touch on contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk if you would like to apply to this fund. Foodbank vouchers and other food help Foodbank vouchers are available via Elmbridge CAN to those in need of short-term help with food and essentials such as toiletries. Please get in touch or visit us at a hub for more information. There are also other local schemes in place to help individuals and families to get food cheaply or for free: Kingston Waste Not Want Not Community Fridge - simply turn up and collect surplus food from local supermarkets gathered that day. All food must go before midnight. The service is free and open to all. The Surplus Market - is open every Saturday and Sunday 11.30 am to 1:00 pm to the entire community at Sunbury Cricket Club, TW16 5PS. Simply turn up, fill your bags and make a donation. The Elmbridge Eco Hub They are based in Walton, have a community fridge and often have free food available to collect, as well as providing other items and sources of support . You do not need a referral - just go along. See Elmbridge Eco Hub for more details . Broadband If you are on a low income you may be able to get cheaper broadband through a social tariff. See Ofcom Social tariffs: Cheaper broadband and phone packages for more details. For general information on how to save money in the UK see Money Saving Expert . Childcare and Costs Relating to Children Universal credit may pay some of your childcare costs when you go to work: Universal Credit childcare costs . Families on a low income may be entitled to free nursery places for two year olds. For more information see: Free education and childcare for 2-year-olds if you claim certain benefits . See Childcare Choices: 15 and 30 hours childcare for more information on government help with childcare costs (15 hours for children aged between nine months and two years, and an additional 15 hours for three and four year olds). Free school meals are available for all children in Reception to Year 2 in a state-maintained school. Free school meals are also available to children on certain qualifying benefits, see Apply for free school meals for how to apply. If your child receives free school meals, then they should also receive some free holiday camp days during the school holidays under the Holiday activities and food programme . Contact your school to ask about this, and speak to Elmbridge CAN if you have any problems. If you have no access to public funds your child may still be able to access free school meals - speak your school to ask, and get in touch with us if you have any problems. School uniforms If you are struggling with the cost of school uniforms, speak to your school in the first instance as they may be able to help you. If they are not able to, please let us know, as we may be able to support you or help you access other sources of support such as The Bridge in Walton or Stripey Stork . Please let us know if you are struggling financially, we may be able to help or refer you to other sources of support.

You can support the integration of forcibly displaced people, allowing them to become contributing, thriving members of our community. Donate By donating to our work, you are directly supporting the integration of forcibly displaced people, allowing them to become fully contributing, thriving members of our community. Donate money We are incredibly grateful for financial donations which allow us to continue our work. You can make a one-off donation or set up a regular direct debit. Please remember to add Gift Aid if you can. Donate via card or Paypal Prefer bank transfer or cheque? Bank transfer : please email contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk for account details. Cheque: please make these payable to Elmbridge CAN and send them to PO Box 112, East Molesey, KT8 8EN. Gift Aid: if you're a UK taxpayer, please also complete this form to allow us to claim Gift Aid and return it to contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk or by post to PO Box 112, East Molesey, KT8 8EN. How your money is helping Read our stories to find out how your money is helping some of the most vulnerable people in our society or read our latest Charity Commission report . Leave a gift in your will By remembering Elmbridge CAN in your will, you can make a lasting difference for displaced families in our community. Even a small gift helps provide welcome, support, and opportunities for those forced to flee their homes — ensuring future generations continue to find safety and hope here in Elmbridge. If you’d like to discuss legacy giving with us in confidence, please contact us by email at contact@elmbridgecan.org.uk or by phone on 07840 843449. Donate items We have no storage so unfortunately, we can only accept donations of items we currently need. See the list below which is regularly updated and if you can donate something on the list, please email materials@elmbridgecan.org.uk . Items we currently need If you have other items to donate which are not on this list, please consider giving them to other charities which may appreciate these such as Care4Calais or Shelter . Donate shares ShareGift collects small lots of shares and donates the funds created to charities. Often unwanted because they are too small to sell, these shares can be transferred to ShareGift at no cost to the shareholder, aggregated and sold to benefit different registered charities. ShareGift can also accept larger donations of shares. If you have shares that you no longer want, you can help support us by donating them to ShareGift and mentioning Elmbridge CAN. I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude... Elmbridge CAN, you have changed my life, and I am forever grateful. LA

Our small staff team supports and underpins the work of our volunteers. Our team Our volunteers are - and always have been - the lifeblood of our organisation. We rely heavily on our team of nearly 100 talented volunteers, who come from all walks of life and bring diverse skills and experience. Since 2022 we have built a small staff team (currently 8 members of staff - approximately 5 FTE - led by our two co-directors) to support and underpin the work of our volunteers, most of whom work part-time. They are guided by a strong and committed trustee board.