News / asylum seekers
The Bristol project providing a safe haven for refugee children
A crèche that provides a safe haven for children of refugees in Bristol, as well as a vital lifeline for their families, desperately needs funds to secure its future.
As the only nursery of its kind in the south west, the Early Years Project, supports around 130 youngsters and their parents each year.
Families such as asylum seeker Drita* who lives in constant fear and uncertainty while her application is being decided, but has nevertheless managed to forge out a life for herself and her daughter, and give something back to the community – thanks to the project.
is needed now More than ever
“It has made such a difference to my three-year-old daughter,” she said. “When she started coming, she was six months old. I always feel secure leaving her there and she feels very comfortable and familiar with the place. She is also learning new things.
“If she did not have a place there, I would not be able to afford to take her to soft play or anything instead. She gets to come here and make friends and interact with others.”
Having initially arrived in the UK pregnant, entirely alone and unable to speak a word of English, Drita has been able to attend classes and is now a fluent English speaker who volunteers with Bristol Refugee Rights (BRR), a St Pauls-based charity that supports refugees and asylum seekers.
Drita added: “For me, the Early Years Project helped me to learn English and then do my volunteering. Nothing compares to that because I have built up my confidence and I feel in a way proud of myself and I never felt that before.
“If I have to leave my daughter with anyone else, I’m constantly worried about her. There, I know she is safe and I can relax for an hour or two. The staff are really nice and supportive.”
BRR runs the project and has launched its first ever crowdfunding campaign to raise the £20,475 needed to keep it running.
Children have a chance to forge relationships at the Early Years Project
Tom, BRR’s community engagement manager, said: “The Early Years Project is crucial, particularly for anyone who wants to come for English classes, advice or volunteering.
“There is no other crèche or early years programme available as a drop in for asylum seekers and refugees in the city; it’s a crucial way of allowing, mostly women, to be involved in the community. Without the programme, there would be no respite or chance of inclusion for them.”
The project welcomes children from four months to five years, who would otherwise not have access to any sort of organised child care, and offers youngsters who have been through a tough start in life a chance to socialise and build relationships.
The charity has until Monday, June 20 to raise the funds it so desperately needs. Donations can be made online.
Children playing at the Early Years Project.
*Drita’s name has been changed to protect her identity while she is going through the asylum process.
Read more: Celebrating the city’s refugees
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