I remember very clearly how lost I felt when I first arrived in the city with my daughter. I didn’t know the city, the people, or where to start rebuilding my life. One of the first things I looked for was a place to improve my English.
That’s how I found the Central Library, and that’s where I met Mark. He was teaching a class and kindly guided me to join the Friday morning sessions at All Nations Church (AMC). On my first day there, I met Catherine. She explained all the different English classes available in Southampton and helped me join Jenny’s class.
Jenny was much more than a teacher – she taught me how to live and grow in a new culture. Every week, I looked forward to Fridays just to see her. She helped me solve problems, big and small, and gave me confidence and hope. The Friday mornings at AMC became something I truly anticipated.
The room was always full of kind people, ready to listen and help with everything from housing to food. All this support comes from SWVG (Southampton and Winchester Visitors Group). They don’t just teach English; they also guide us about English culture, school rules, special occasions, and many other things that every new member of any society needs to know. Their support has always been unwavering.
As a newcomer, you quickly understand the true meaning of kindness and love – and how important it is to help each other.
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**About SWVG**
SWVG is a volunteer-led charity dedicated to supporting asylum seekers and refugees across Southampton and Winchester. Since its establishment as a registered charity in 2004, SWVG has grown significantly while remaining committed to its founding ethos: one-to-one befriending and practical support for people navigating the UK asylum system.
Volunteers, many of whom are trained visitors, offer personal companionship and practical help, as well as English lessons. Their services also include a help desk at the weekly drop-in centre, which SWVG runs in conjunction with CLEAR (another local charity supporting asylum seekers). This partnership assists with access to legal advice where available and organizes community activities, ensuring a network of care and solidarity.
SWVG prides itself on cost-effectiveness, channeling around three-quarters of its funds directly into frontline support. A small administrative team supports a wide volunteer base to maximize impact.
Beyond direct support, SWVG actively engages in campaigning and public education. They strive to challenge misinformation and advocate for fairer asylum policies.
Through partnerships with local institutions such as churches, schools, and legal advisors, the charity runs events and community outreach initiatives that foster inclusion and cultural exchange. Whether through campaigning, fundraising, or hosting welcoming events, SWVG amplifies the voices of asylum seekers while providing practical relief and human connection during this critical period of transition.
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**My Journey with SWVG**
SWVG helps people who have experienced trauma, come from difficult situations, and are starting a new life in a new country.
I joined their *Cooking for Friends* project, where refugees and asylum seekers come together to cook dishes from their home countries. It’s not only about food; it’s about sharing culture, joy, and friendship.
I also joined the schools group, where we help children understand that the UK is a diverse society, with people from all over the world.
Now, I help SWVG as an IT specialist, updating its social media channels, and I am so happy to contribute. I believe that by helping people who need it, you make the city stronger and more welcoming. I also want to help share English culture with new neighbours and build a better future together.
I often ask myself what I would have done without SWVG. I don’t know how I would have coped without Jenny, Catherine, and all the kind people who helped me and my daughter survive, mentally and physically. Their support gave us the strength to start again.
This is why I believe it’s so important for people to know about SWVG. They are not just helping individuals — they are building a stronger, more compassionate community for everyone.
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25500499.southampton-supports-refugees-asylum-seekers/?ref=rss