How you can help a refugee or asylum seeker

Your help and support is always appreciated. Please consider contacting our local voluntary sector partners through our list of helpful organisations. You could donate, volunteer or befriend someone in the community.

Offer a spare room

The offer of a spare room could really help someone in need.

Nightstop (opens new window) (by DePaul UK) offers emergency accommodation for young people through volunteer hosts. Hosts provide a safe room for the night and a warm meal.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer host, email nightstop@depaulcharity.org.uk

If you are helping someone looking for a safe place to stay tonight, call 0191 253 6164 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Let out a property

If you're a private landlord with affordable accommodation to offer, please contact MarkSidaway@gateshead.gov.uk

Offer your friendship

HostNation (opens new window) is a volunteer-led charity connecting refugees and asylum seekers with local befrienders. Volunteers help newcomers feel welcome by sharing local knowledge, culture, and activities.

If you'd like to offer your friendship please contact info@hostnation.org.uk

Offer work experience or employment

If you're an employer with job or work experience opportunities, please contact workinggateshead@gateshead.gov.uk

Think about fostering

The North East Migration Partnership (opens new window) runs Give Hope a Home, a fostering project in partnership with local councils. It supports children and young people under 18 who arrive in the North East without a parent or carer.

Register your interest with Gateshead Council. (opens new window)