UK Refugee Charities
Database of 838 charities in England and Wales supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Legal help, food banks, ESOL, housing, mental health. All services free.
Frequently asked questions
What is a charity and how do they help refugees?
A charity is a non-profit organisation registered with the Charity Commission. Refugee charities provide: free legal advice, food banks, document help, ESOL classes, mental health support, advocacy, housing assistance, interpreters, crisis support.
How are charities different from government help?
Government (Home Office, council) — mandatory help by law: Section 95 housing, £49.18/week for food, NHS healthcare. Charities — voluntary help on top: hot meals, clothing, lawyers outside Legal Aid, emotional support, advocacy. Many charities work with those refused by the government.
Do I have to pay for charity help?
No. All charity services for refugees and asylum seekers are free. If an organisation asks for payment — it is not a charity but a commercial entity. You can verify registration at register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk by name or number.
How do I contact a charity?
Find the closest one to your city via the postcode search. Most have walk-in services (no appointment needed) or phone helplines. Call or visit in person. Major charities (Refugee Council, British Red Cross) also have online forms.
Which are the largest UK refugee charities?
Refugee Council, British Red Cross, Refugee Action, Asylum Aid, Migrant Help (0808 8010 503 — Home Office support hotline), Refugee Women Connect, Praxis, Migrants Rights Network. All have local offices across the UK.