A refugee is someone who has been forced to flee their country because of war, violence or bad treatment due to their ethnicity, religion, sexuality or political beliefs. Most are unable to return home or are afraid to do so. Some young people arrive in the country with their families, but many arrive alone without a parent or guardian.
War and violence are the main reasons refugees leave their countries, and they may have had very traumatic experiences. Some have seen their homes destroyed, loved ones killed or they may have been tortured or trafficked.
If you have arrived in the country as a refugee or asylum seeker, there are services to support you. They will help you feel safe, help you to start to come to terms with your experiences and support you to look towards the future.
By young people, for young people
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If you need some help, you can talk to a trusted professional, like a doctor or teacher who will be able to give you advice and support.
If you live in Norfolk:
If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you live in Waveney:
You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.
Norfolk Looked After Children & Young People's Health Team offer support for all unaccompanied asylum seeking children in Norfolk. Find easy-read information about healthcare support here.
The Benjamin Foundation provide support for unaccompanied asylum seeking children in Suffolk, with referrals accepted through Suffolk County Council.
Norfolk County Council provides help and support to asylum seeking and refugee families to access healthcare, education and community integration. Contact them on 0344 800 8020 Monday to Friday 9-5pm, or visit the website.
Suffolk Refugee Support is a charity which supports refugee adults over 18 years old within the Suffolk and Waveney area with employment, education and advice.
The Red Cross Refugee Service provides advice and guidance in many languages, and have a local Norwich based office. Call 01603 623041 or email RSenquiriesNorwich@redcross.org.uk
Migrant Help UK offer a helpline for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in need of advice. Call 0808 8010 503 or go to the website webchat.
Barnados offer a helpline to support the mental health and wellbeing of asylum seekers and refugees in the UK. Call 0800 151 2605 from Monday-Friday 10am - 8pm, and Saturday 10am - 3pm.
New Routes is a charity which provide activities, community integration and support to refugees and asylum seekers across Norfolk and Suffolk.
Gyros provides free advice on a range of topics, including immigration, the EU settlement scheme and your rights in the UK.
Norwich City of Sanctuary is part of a national movement building a culture of welcome for people seeking sanctuary.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
Information and advice for refugees and asylum seekers who may be coping with life after traumatic experiences.
Information and advice for young refugee's and asylum seekers aged 15-25
Information and support for child refugee's and asylum seekers.
