Our Mission
The Rural Refugee Network (RRN) was set up in September 2015 by a group of volunteers in the Hampshire and West Sussex area with the express aim of taking practical action to help the current Syrian Refugee crisis.
Recognising that the Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons initiative doesn’t reach far enough, and is not accessing rural areas, RRN took the decision to create something to help address this.
Our group is made up of individuals from a cross section of life and includes senior level leaders from health and social care, business, education, construction, media and planning.
So far we have successfully settled 14 refugee families in Hampshire.
30 + grants made to help refugees with training, education and business start ups.
Since inception, we’ve had over 100 incredible volunteers and supporters help raise money, organise, inform and resettle Syrian and Afghan families, as well as local asylum-seeking individuals and families.
Latest News
Christmas Message from The Trustees
Dear RRN supporter,
I’d like to thank you for being part of the RRN community this year and to share my reflections this holiday season. As a trustee I have been really inspired by chatting to volunteers and supporters, enjoying fascinating conversations with dedicated local people who quietly provide a warm welcome and practical support. Without you, RRN’s impact would not be possible.
As I look forward to my sons coming home for Christmas, I find myself reflecting on those who have had to leave everything and everyone they love behind. The headlines bear disheartening messages and heartbreaking news of fresh conflict. Together you, through RRN's very special community, show that there are people who care. You create hope, empathy and shared humanity in our corner of the world.
I was inspired by a gathering of volunteers last week to make a Christmas donation. Please do join me if you are able to and visit https://www.justgiving.com/RuralRefugeeNetwork today. It's one small way to express your commitment to making the world a more compassionate place. To make everyone feel welcomed and settled, to help them to thrive here.
We are planning lots of opportunities to get involved next year. In particular, do put the art sale, on the evening of 4 March at Bedales, in your diary and join us for a really special evening (https://www.bedales.org.uk/news/major-new-art-sale-announced). We’ll be in touch after the holidays to tell you more and to update on recent activity and more ways to get involved.
For now, let me leave you and your loved ones with my very warm wishes for the holiday season and my thanks for being part of the wonderful RRN community.
With love on behalf of the RRN trustees
Kath Lawrence
Future Events