Our support for refugees and asylum seekers
Hammersmith & Fulham Council recognise that refugees and asylum seekers and people from abroad make significant contributions to our economy and community, and we value the diversity they bring.
We provide support through our children's services, housing and adult social care teams, partners and community organisations.
Our support is available to any refugee or asylum seeker who needs it, including unaccompanied children and young adults, families and adults travelling solo.
Useful quick links
Here are a few quick links to information you may find useful.
English lessons
For guidance on where to find English lessons, look at our Refugee Welcome Pack, or visit adult learning and skills service.
Job support
For useful information on looking for a job, please visit help to get a job.
Financial support
For help applying for benefits, please visit benefits.
Or for information on council tax support, housing benefit, free school meals, school clothing grants, please call: 020 8753 6681
Relationship breakdown (sponsor and refugee) help
If you need advice or support after a relationship breakdown, please call 0800 012 1577, or email UKRS@lbhf.gov.uk
Housing support
If you become aware of refugees or asylum seekers needing help with homelessness within the borough, please use our housing advice contact form.
Emergency out of hours support
For urgent support outside of office hours, please contact the emergency duty team on 020 8748 8588.
Events
H&F enjoys celebrating the rich culture and contributions refugees, asylum seekers and people from abroad bring to our community.
Welcome sessions
We’re currently holding regular events to support incoming Ukrainian refugees settle in H&F and continue to host weekly events for Afghan refugees living in temporary accommodation.
Our welcome events are designed to support refugees who have just arrived by linking in with council and local support services.
If you are a Ukrainian refugee that arrived in H&F and would like to attend one of our regular welcome events, please contact us on Freephone 0800 012 1577, 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Past events
- Refugee Week 2022: We celebrate the contributions of those who now call H&F home
- Refugees from Ukraine are finding help and support in H&F
- Afghan refugees compete at Lord’s Cricket Ground
- Refugee Week 2021
- Refugee Week 2020: You are welcome in H&F
- Young Refugees football train with Gary Lineker
- Refugee Week 2019: You, me and those who came before
City of Sanctuary
We are committed to becoming a City of Sanctuary. More information can be found on the City of Sanctuary UK website.