Migrants, Asylum seekers & Refugee Support (MARS)

If you are an EU migrant we run an appointment service where you can get advice and support and can be referred to other agencies.

We can help you to...

• look for somewhere affordable to live
• search and apply for accommodation
• complete forms and paperwork
• apply for qualifying benefits and explain eligibility
• budget, managing debts, organise finances
• search and apply for employment and training
• write a CV
• access services and advocate on your behalf

Housing related support might also include help with ...

• problems related to a poor standard of accommodation
• homelessness
• issues with landlords or neighbours
• complaints to Newport City Homes and other organisations
• invalid or non-existent tenancy agreements.

We also help families or individuals who need support with the school admission process, registering with a GP, and making hospital appointments

Health

Roisin is the Asylum Seeker Nurse employed by Aneurin Bevan Health Board to ensure equitable access to healthcare for those seeking asylum in Newport.

When Asylum Seekers arrive in Newport, Roisin completes a Health Needs Assessment and helps them register with a GP. With their permission, their information is then passed on to the GP surgery, necessary referrals are made, with clients signposted to groups and services according to their individual needs and interests to promote well-being.

A drop-in session takes place on a weekly basis to provide an opportunity for people who are experiencing difficulties accessing health services, or who have queries or issues affecting their well-being.

Drop-in: Every Monday

Appointments only: Every Wednesday

The Lighthouse project offers housing-related support to refugees in Newport. Service users are provided information and support to find suitable housing and sustain their tenancies.

This service is free and open to all refugees whether they have recently been granted refugee status or have been living here for a long time.

Housing Support Workers can:

• help to deal with correspondence, forms and form filling
• support people to complete a homelessness application at The Information Station
• help people to complete a Bond Scheme application
• support people to look for somewhere affordable to live

The service is free and interpretation will be provided at no cost.

You can access support here at SEWREC or at Welsh Refugee Council (125 Lower Dock Street, Newport, NP20 1EG) at the following times:

Welsh Refugee Council

• Monday and Tuesday, 9.30am - 12 midday

SEWREC

• Monday and Tuesday: 12.30pm - 4pm
• Wednesday and Friday: 9.30am-1.30pm
• Thursday: 9.30am-2pm

N&DRSG, TAFF Housing, Aneurin Bevan Health Board, Supporting People, DPIA