Befriending is a chance to reach out as willing volunteers to give marginalised refugees and asylum seekers
 a more positive experience of London and everything it has to offer. So many refugees scarcely know anyone outside their caseworkers, other asylum seekers and their own
 ethnic community. One-to-one befriending relationships with London residents not only help to reduce  the social isolation that refugees experience, but can increase their self confidence, promote their independence, broaden their social networks and help them to integrate into city life. A chance to have  a simple walk in the park or a visit to the local market or a chat over a cup of tea with a friendly person, can bring a sense of normality to someone whose life has been turned upside down. As we say, London is a much friendlier place when you have a Londoner by your side. And, it is often a highly rewarding and worthwhile experience for the befriender as well. 

We are seeking befrienders who live in Greater London zones 3-6 which is where most refugees and asylum seekers are housed. If you live in the outer zones but within the M25, we would love to have you on board. We are also keen to recruit more men to join HostNation.

By registering you commit to being a London host to a socially isolated refugee or asylum seeker, who may be recently arrived or have lived here 10+ years, but has experienced little of what London has to offer. We hope you will show them more of our great city and how they can enjoy London and have new, positive experiences cheaply and often for free. London is a much friendlier city with a Londoner by your side. You must be able to offer at least 3-4 hours of time to spend together once or twice a fortnight. Befriending is a service and a commitment of time but it can grow into a mutual and personal friendship.

You need to be:

A full time British resident

Over the age of 18

Not currently suffering from alcohol or drug dependency

Without criminal convictions

Able to offer the gift of time spent together – a minimum of 3hrs once a fortnight over 3 months

  Please refer to the HostNation site at https://www.hostnation.org.uk/befriend/ for more information and to register.

  Quality Assured Provider