Offer help to refugees settling in Edinburgh
We continue to support vulnerable people and refugees displaced from many countries across the world.
This page gives an overview of refugee support and resettlement, who is involved, and how you can support them or give donations.
Language and cultural integration
We are providing English classes and cultural integration work in partnership with The Welcoming Association. The Welcoming Association is looking for volunteers for a number of roles. We are also working with partners to provide English for speakers of other languages classes and support - find out more in the Connect Here guide.
Clothing
All refugees may go to the Edinburgh Clothing Store. You can help by sending the store your donations of clothes or money.
Housing
Housing is provided through the Council's Private Sector Leasing Scheme run by Link Housing. They are looking for properties to join the Link housing scheme. At the moment, refugees are arriving in family groups so we are not looking for individual rooms in people's homes. If that changes, we will update this page.
Equipment
Homes supplied under the Private Sector Leasing Scheme come fully furnished so we don't need large items of furniture. We do need smaller household goods and starter packs and have worked with FreshStart to supply these. FreshStart is looking for volunteers as well as donations of everyday items or donations of money.
Computers
We have teamed up with Edinburgh Remakery to develop a scheme for donating refurbished lap-tops to refugees arriving in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Remakery is looking for donations of equipment and money to support the scheme.
Food
We are not looking for food donations but Edinburgh hosts a number of food banks and pantries that would be grateful for your support.
Other refugee projects and how to donate
A number of third sector and charitable organisations have also been supporting refugees. All are looking for either donations of money or useful items:
More about organisations that provide support for refugees or new families in Edinburgh.