Buddying Programme
Buddying is at the heart of what we do, matching local people with newly arriving people seeking refuge.
Become a Buddy
We are looking for new buddies who:
have a knowledge and understanding of Hastings/Rother/Wealden and the local area
can commit to 1-7 hours a month volunteering
have empathy and a willingness to learn and understand the challenges of people seeking refuge
To volunteer, click here to fill out our application form.
What's involved
Buddies usually meet up once a week for at least an hour, often in a local café, park or community space. These informal meetups often include:
Practising everyday English
Navigating things like utility bills or appointments
Exploring local activities, culture or events together
Sharing conversation, encouragement, and human connection
Why it matters
Many of our participants — especially older people and those living in rural or isolated areas — face language barriers, social isolation or limited access to work. A buddy can be the first and most important connection they make, opening the door to new friendships, confidence, and community life.
No experience needed
You don’t need teaching experience or second language skills. Just patience, empathy and consistency. We’ll guide you through an induction after you sign up, and connect you with others through our peer support network, where buddies share ideas, resources, and encouragement.
“I made a real friend when I needed one most.” — Project participant
“Volunteering here makes me proud of my town.” — Buddy
A supportive community
We take buddy support seriously. Our Buddy Peer Support Network is a space to swap tips, share concerns, and hear from others. The network also acts as an informal hub, helping buddies plug into local events and groups — for example, highlighting workshops or community arts events that participants could enjoy.
How to register
Fill in our simple form to register your interest. Once you do, we’ll invite you to an online induction where you can ask questions, meet others, and learn more.
By registering, you give consent for the Refugee Buddy Project to process your personal data in accordance with GDPR and our Privacy Policy.
Referrals and volunteering
If you would like to make a referral for a person or to volunteer with the Refugee Buddy Project, do get in touch with us. Please give us as much detail as possible. We are a small team but will endevour to get back to you within 5 working days.
