Universal Credit Project with Always Community 

The Universal Credit Project, a collaborative effort between Refugee Roots and Always Community, concluded on 12 December 2025 after two-and-a-half years of impactful work. The initiative supported 505 individuals through 556 tailored sessions, with 151 sessions led by adviser Daniela (Jan 2024 to 12 Dec 2025). 

505 supported (Jan 24-Dec 25)

Notably, the project achieved a remarkable 98% success rate in producing positive outcomes for particpiants and with 91% of participants reporting the help they received made a difference in their lives and 95% reporting they felt more confident. 

91% report the help they received made a difference

95% report feeling more confident

98% success rate

Partnering to strengthen the provision of support

• Always Community help to train the advisers at the project's inception, covering the costs of the courses and materials
• Regular support from Always Community ensured the quality of the project remained high
• The charity provided welfare resources such as posters, books, and leaflets. 

“we would love to see more groups approach partnership work in similar ways as Always Community did, with openness, transparency, rigor and participant first focus ”

Adam Baker, Charity Director, Refugee Roots

Always Community Winds Up

Amid financial challenges faced by many charities, Always Community will be winding up by the end of December 2025. Their closure highlights the urgent need for sustainable funding sources to ensure long-term community impact.

Refugee Roots expressed gratitude for the partnership and collaboration over the past two years, recognising the significance of Always Community's contributions in changing lives.

Adam Baker said “we learned a lot working with Always Community and are grateful for their support, partnership and friendship, Daniela provided support that was truly person-centred, trauma-informed and responsive to individuals and their particular needs” 

Adviser Fawad said, "This project is often the first step for new refugees after being unable to work as asylum seekers — helping them access Universal Credit while they improve their English and gain work experience, it has truly made a difference." 

Carrying the beacon forward

Charity Director, Adam Baker said “Always Community enabled us to effectively deliver a highly impactful project that has upskilled our staff, helped us reach new and wider audiences and given us a determination to make sure that those who need it most have access to free impartial advice and guidance when they need it”. 

Refugee Roots will continue twice-weekly Universal Credit sessions based on appointment bookings via their website. Alongside the Universal Credit project, they are running the Essential Skills project, offering free language lessons, support to access education, and training opportunities.

The £100k Campaign

To address funding challenges, Refugee Roots launched the ‘100k Campaign’ aimed at raising £100,000 to continue their charitable services. With 50% of the target already achieved, Refugee Roots is appealing for further contributions to sustain their impactful work.

£10,000 would enable us to train a new worker, cover costs for 10 hours of weekly project support, and maintain our appointment booking system.

Get Involved

• Donate: For those interested in supporting the Universal Credit project’s operational costs, email [email protected].
• Register for Support: Book appointments for Universal Credit assistance: here.
• Support 100k Campaign: Help Refugee Roots reach their target: Register Your Support.

Let’s ensure the vital work continues for those in need.

Refugee Roots Moving Forward

Determined to continue making a difference, Refugee Roots strives to adapt to challenges faced by charitable organisations. By partnering with local authorities, trusts, corporations, and high net worth individuals, they aim to secure necessary funding.

Together, we can create lasting change in the lives of those relying on the outstanding services provided by organisations like Refugee Roots and Always Community.