For Hull Refugee Week, HEY! Volunteers are getting involved in a wide range of events across the city, supporting activities that celebrate community and culture. Volunteer Programme Manager Abi Bell shares more about how the team is taking part:

 

"HEY! Volunteering has a strong track record of successfully recruiting, training and engaging refugees, supporting them to develop confidence, improve communication skills and build meaningful connections within their communities. Through participation in our programme, we have seen many positive success stories, with individuals forming friendships, gaining a sense of belonging and taking important steps towards integration.

Our approach is designed to be accessible and inclusive, welcoming people from all backgrounds. We have worked closely with partner organisations to adapt our training materials for those with limited English, ensuring everyone can fully benefit from the experience. We also provide additional support through a buddy system, pairing new volunteers with experienced participants to offer guidance and encouragement.

Volunteering offers significant benefits for refugees, helping to reduce isolation, build skills, boost wellbeing and create pathways into further opportunities such as education and employment."

 

A range of events will be taking place across Hull to mark Refugee Week. Between 15 and 21 June, communities will host activities including advice sessions, live music, an art exhibition and a university talk.

 

Organisers say the programme forms part of the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating refugees and people seeking sanctuary.

 

Hull's events for Refugee Week:

 

Refugee Week Celebration with Welcome House: 15 June, 12:00 to 15:00, 3 Wright Street, HU2 8HU

Community Celebration with Humber Community Advice Services: 16 June, 11:00 to 14:00, Saner Street

Courage Beyond Borders – Expression Through Art Exhibition: 16-20 June, 11:00 to 17:00, Ferensway

Community Event with Open Doors: 18 June, 11:00 to 14:00, 91 Princes Avenue, HU5 3QP

Bag decorating with Hull Help for Refugees: 17 June, 15:00 to 16:00, Wright Street

Sanctuary Celebration with Community Integration And Advocacy Centre CIAC: 19 June, 12:00 to 15:00, 185 Ferensway, HU1 3UA

Food, Music & Courage Festival with Bora Shabaa: 20 June, 13:00 to 16:00, Oasis Hub

 

Visit the Refugee Week website to learn more: Home 2026 | Refugee Week