Real voices. Real stories. Real impact.
At Integration Support, we believe that the best way to understand the value of our work is to hear directly from the people we support.
These are just some of the stories shared by refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, and families who have taken part in our programmes.
Thank you again for all the support you give our patients (and helping us to get them out of hospital quickly and safely). I also know you help many of our staff with their immigration problems and benefits – the PAH is grateful for the support you provide.
I moved my house and I don’t know how to set up all the bills and benefits, I am refugee. You supported me with creating account and showed me how to pay. Thank you
Leyla (Caseworker) applied a fund for me and the money I got will help to buy food and pay bills. This is very good for us because we were struggling financially.
Zeyneb’s Story
“My name is Zeyneb. I was introduced to Integration Support by my social prescriber after recently moving to Harlow. At the time, I didn’t know anyone. I felt lonely, disconnected, and was dealing with several health issues.
It was such a great feeling when I met someone at Integration Support who spoke my native language. They made me feel welcome and truly supported.
They helped me sort out my immigration status, which gave me peace of mind. They also helped me apply for PIP — which has been a great financial help — and for a Blue Badge. They explained services like the Foodbank and Bounty Club, and encouraged me to join English classes.
Now, I’m a student learning English. I’ve started speaking to people, made a friend with my neighbour, and I now have people around me I can talk to or ask for help when I need it.
Thank you for the good work. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it — thank you very much. You have always been with me. You helped me in every situation. Thanks xxx”
Olena’s story
My name is Olena. I was born and raised in Ukraine, Kyiv. I moved to England in August 2022. All our family lived in Margate but at the end of November we moved to Harlow. We lived all family together in a big house.
First time I got to know about Integration Support was when I have been invited to the International women’s Day 8th March celebration event. Many useful meetings, appointments and events followed – all organised by Integration Support.
If I had any questions, Integration Support always came to the rescue and helped to find the answers.
In January 2025 I experienced issues with my accommodation. All our family members had to move out of the house we have been renting together. I had nowhere to go because I am disabled wheelchair user, and therefore I needed an accommodation adapted to meet my needs. It was a very difficult time for me but I received great support and this gave me strength not to give up.
Integration Support team helped me a lot. If they would not be there for me, I do not know what would happen and where would I be now. On the 18th March I received keys from beautiful flat to rent. My sincere gratitude and thanks to all those from Integration Support who have been there for me and helped me.
My message to all those who are in doubt, reach out to Integration Support, and they will never turn you away. You will get help and support. If you have any questions or are in a challenging life situation, definitely contact Integration Support!
Elena’s Story
My name is Elena, and I’m from Romania. I’ve been living in the UK for about six years. I love children and enjoy caring for them, but as a foreigner, my first big challenge was the language barrier.
It was hard to find new friends, a job, or even a community to join. I also live with some health issues, which made it difficult to find suitable work. I wanted to offer nanny services, but it’s not easy — people need to know and trust you first. Because of this, I struggled to socialise and lacked confidence in my English skills.
I heard about Integration Support from friends — and that’s where everything began to change.
At Integration Support, I received a lot of help. I started learning English through their English classes, and I also joined the Women’s Conversation Club where I could practice speaking, reading, and writing in a supportive space.
The club helped me meet many wonderful women, make friends, and spend time with amazing people. I received emotional and moral support from the team and from volunteers, especially when I needed it most.
The Conversation Club is also a great place to find out about other local activities and organisations. It’s been the perfect escape from daily routine and a great boost to my wellbeing.
Thanks to Integration Support and the Women’s Conversation Club, I’m not shy anymore about speaking English. I’ve learned about other cultures, made new friends, and received valuable advice on the steps I need to take to become a certified childminder. I’m now a student in the UK and feel more confident in myself and my future.
*I would definitely recommend Integration Support to anyone new in the area who needs help. A very big thank you to the entire Integration Support team for all the amazing work you do — for me and for so many others. THANK YOU!”
Hicran’s Story
I am a mother of two children — one of whom is disabled — and much of my life revolves around caring for my autistic son. I was going through an incredibly difficult time. My mental health was suffering, and I felt worn out, lonely, and overwhelmed.
Everything changed when my son’s doctor’s assistant referred me to a charity organisation called Integration Support. That’s when I was introduced to Ms. Leyla — and from the very first moment, I felt the confidence in her voice and her genuine desire to help.
Before I met you, I never thought I could feel happiness again. But you are such a wonderful team — it’s impossible to feel bad in your presence. Your positivity, cheerfulness, and solution-focused approach helped me feel safe, supported, and seen.
I am deeply grateful to each and every one of you. But especially to Ms. Leyla — I’m so glad I met you. You motivated me to start attending sports sessions to improve my wellbeing, and you helped me make new friends. I no longer feel lonely or helpless, because I know Integration Support — and Leyla — are always just a phone call away.
With your help, I’ve been able to:
- Apply for and receive PIP for my son
- Organise my government correspondence
- Submit housing and fund applications
- Get many things in my life back in order
You have truly touched my heart. I feel safer and happier now. Thank you so much to Leyla and to your amazing team at Integration Support. I’m so glad our paths crossed.