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Supporting children, young people & families seeking sanctuary in the UK

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What is this project about?

ECHO works in partnership with Seth Court, a hotel providing temporary accommodation for families seeking asylum, to deliver regular engagement sessions with children, young people and families. This work centres on building trust, creating safe and inclusive spaces, and supporting families to feel seen, heard and connected.

Through structured workshops and informal engagement, the team introduces key concepts such as voice, influence and access to health and support services in ways that are accessible and age-appropriate. Sessions also create opportunities for children and young people to reflect on their experiences, explore what matters most to them, and share their views on topics such as wellbeing, community and childhood.

The work is supported by ECHO staff and volunteers, ensuring sessions remain flexible, inclusive and responsive to need, including for children and young people with SEND. As relationships have developed, engagement has begun to move beyond introductory activities, creating space for more meaningful conversations and contributions that can inform wider service development and strategic work, including child poverty priorities.

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Who can get involved?

  • Children, young people and families currently seeking sanctuary in TH.
  • ECHO staff and trained volunteers supporting delivery
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Timelines

Ongoing (aligned to school half-terms)

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What happens during sessions?

  • Interactive workshops introducing voice and influence
  • Creative and reflective activities exploring experiences and needs
  • Group discussions on topics such as wellbeing, childhood and support services
  • Adapted sessions to support children and young people with additional needs
  • Ongoing relationship-building with families and the wider community
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What was the impact?

  • Builds trust and a consistent presence within the Seth Court community
  • Creates safe spaces for children and families to express themselves
  • Supports increased understanding of rights and access to services
  • Enables lived experiences to inform wider system work and strategies
  • Strengthens engagement with seldom-heard communities
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How to get involved

If you’re interested in hearing more about this project:

Contact echo-th@barnardos.org.uk if you have any questions

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