In Newport we are working with the Welsh Refugee Council to create a welcome pack for new arrivals to the area. SHARED Futures helped develop the project and our key worker, Nadine, has been central to planning the activities, running aspects of the programme and ensuring the engagement and sustained participation of the young people.

Twenty-seven young people from host and refugee communities in Newport came together to share their understandings and experiences of immigration. They enjoyed a range of activities at a residential weekend at Hilston Park in Gwent, Wales, where they made new friends and learned to work as a team.

The refugee young people talked about what it was like to lose their homes, flee their countries and arrive in Newport. They discussed what helped and what didn't help them settle in. Whilst several had to cope with racism and initial problems understanding English, they said that making friends and getting involved in social and learning activities helped most. The Welsh young people looked at myths surrounding asylum and their more negative attitudes towards asylum seekers visibly changed.

The young people decided to create a music communication video to share what they had learnt and welcome young refugees to Newport. The weekend activities were filmed and young people are now turning out regularly to get this ready for a high quality DVD. When uploaded to the Welsh Refugee Council website, the DVD will be accompanied by a range of key messages and tips from the young people to any new arrival or person living in Wales.