The Afghanistan & Central Asian Association is excited to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at supporting the rehabilitation and reintegration of ethnic minority individuals on probation in 4 different boroughs: Hounslow, Ealing, Hillingdon and Brent.
This program is made possible through the “Grant Funding Agreement for London Probation Region Grants for People from Ethnic Minority Groups.” With grant funding over three years this project is the first partnership between HMPPS and ACAA, looking to rehabilitate and re-integrate some of the most marginalised members of our communities.
The primary goal of this initiative is to provide targeted support to individuals from ethnic minority groups who are navigating the probation process. By offering rehabilitation and reintegration services, we aim to help them rebuild their lives, develop essential life skills, and reintegrate into their communities successfully.
Participants will have access to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes, which will enhance their communication skills and open doors to further education and employment opportunities.
In addition to language support, we will host legal aid drop-in clinics, providing access to trained and trainee lawyers. These clinics will offer critical advice on matters such as asylum, housing, and finances. Furthermore, we will offer guidance on accessing education and employment, key factors in achieving long-term stability.
Our workshops will delve into important topics such as Street Law, Access to Healthcare, Everyday Skills, and Drug Harm Prevention. These sessions are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate everyday challenges. To ensure the highest quality of services, we are collaborating with respected institutions including The Royal Holloway University, The NHS, and local councils. Together, we aim to provide well-rounded support that addresses both the immediate and long-term needs of our participants.
Leading this important project is our Rehabilitation Project Manager, Lauren Allen, with Chae St Louis serving as the Rehabilitation Support Officer, alongside a team of volunteers.
Their dedication to this initiative is instrumental in driving our mission forward and ensuring that we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.
We are confident that this programme will not only benefit the individuals directly involved but also make a positive contribution to the wider communities in the boroughs we serve. As we begin rolling out these workshops across Hounslow, Ealing, Hillingdon, and Brent, we are eager to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among participants, giving them the support they need to embark on a fresh start.