British Refugee Council

The Refugee Council is a leading charity working with refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK. Founded in 1951, following the creation of the UN Refugee Convention, we exist to support and empower people who have made the heart breaking decision to flee conflict, violence and persecution in order to rebuild their lives here in the UK. We work with over 13,000 women, men and children each year who are desperately seeking safety. From the moment refugees arrive in the UK – we are here: We provide crisis advice, mental health counselling and practical support to help people settle and integrate into their new community. We are specialists in working with refugee children who arrive in the UK alone. We work with refugees and our partners to fight for improvements to the asylum protection system. We inspire change in attitudes towards refugees and people seeking asylum – speaking out for compassion fairness and kindness. Since the day the Refugee Council was formed in 1951, we have been proud to welcome refugees and help them to rebuild their lives. 70 years on, our 2021 to 2025 strategy outlines our constant and unwavering commitment to continue this work. Our vision Refugees are welcome to live safe and fulfilling lives contributing to the UK. Our purpose To work with refugees to transform their experience of seeking protection in the UK. To be effective, we need to focus on specific key ambitions that will inspire and mobilise refugees, our staff, volunteers, supporters and partners.