Dorset Welcome Fund

The Dorset Welcome Fund awards grants to local community groups in Dorset to support community action helping refugees and asylum seekers of any nationality who are arriving, residing, or settling in Dorset. The fund supports activities focused on wellbeing, community cohesion, and participation in community activities. Examples include community events and social activities to address isolation, wellbeing and mental health services, cultural heritage activities, advice and advocacy support, English language skills development, employment and volunteering pathways, and provision of practical items to address hardship. Priority is given to groups working collaboratively with clear referral routes that bring tangible improvements to quality of life for refugees and asylum seekers. Grants of up to £5,000 are available to support new or existing activities, with funded activities required to start within two months of award and grants to be spent within 12 months. The fund is currently closed.