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(use the Reach Deck tool bar to translate this information)

To support parents to minimise the impact of anxiety or depression during their perinatal period.

For those parents who are 12-26 weeks pregnant and currently or at risk of mild to moderate anxiety and would like to see the benefits of active relaxation and mindfulness.

Mindfulness Meditation

Active relaxation

Coping skills

Social Support

Awareness raising of Foetal development and couple or co-parenting relationship

6 week virtual groups work programme

SELF-REFER BY RINGING NSPCC NI Hub on 02820441650 or staff can refer- see form below.

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Supporting you | Belfast Health & Social Care Trust website

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During your pregnancy journey, you normally see a small number of healthcare professionals, led by your midwife or doctor. However, we have other healthcare professionals and services to support you and ensure you have a safe and satisfying birth experience.

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Anaka is a Belfast-based women's collective, led by women with direct experience of the asylum system. We use our collective skills to educate, advocate for and celebrate each other in the face of an oppressive immigration system.

If you would like referred to this group please speak to your midwife and she will pass along you contact details to the relevant people. Anaka Women's Collective | Facebook

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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ACSONI – Supporting the African and Caribbean community in Northern Ireland

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Read about the impact of racism on mental health, and find options for support if racism is affecting your mental health

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Find Your Welcome

We’re here to help you connect with others, find help and support, and settle in well to your life in the United Kingdom

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We work together against domestic abuse.

Our vision for the 21st century is the elimination of domestic abuse.

Belfast & Lisburn Women's Aid is a member of Women's Aid Federation Northern Ireland,
the lead voluntary organisation in the region addressing domestic abuse. We work with other
local groups across NI, providing life-saving and life-changing services and support.
Together we will achieve a society where domestic abuse is not accepted, where women
and children are safe.

Mon to Fri 9am-5pm

Do something amazing today.

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Belfast & Lisburn Women's Aid - Working to end domestic violence

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Belfast & Lisburn Women's Aid is a member of Women's Aid Federation Northern Ireland,the lead voluntary organisation in the region addressing domestic abuse. We work with otherlocal groups across NI, providing life-saving and life-changing services and support.Together we will achieve a society where domestic abuse is not accepted, where womenand children are safe.

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Please see referral form below to be filled by a health or social care professional.

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Migrant Help provides independent advice and guidance to assist asylum seekers in the UK move through and understand the asylum process.

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Migrant Help provides independent advice and guidance to assist asylum seekers in the UK move through and understand the asylum process.

We run a free asylum helpline available 24/7/365 and accessible to all asylum seekers in the UK. Just call 0808 8010 503 .

Our teams are based across the country and also offer face to face advice to asylum seekers in the initial accommodation sites, as well as outreach services to vulnerable clients.
Introduction to asylum services - British and International Sign Language
Voice-over in English, with subtitles available in a number of languages: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Farsi, Kurdish Sorani, Pashto, Punjabi, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Tigrinya and Urdu.

To access these subtitles, click the Settings icon on the video you are watching. Then select your desired language from the Subtitles/CC menu that appears.

We can advise you in your language on issues such as:

How to claim asylum

Navigating the asylum process

Applying for asylum support including accommodation

Notifying the Home Office if your circumstances change

Finding legal representation

Accessing healthcare

Support during the post-decision period - read about the support available after positive decision here, and negative decision here

Other asylum and post-asylum claim related matters

We can signpost you to other helpful services in your area by telephone or in person, just talk to your adviser for more information.
Please note that we are able to give advice on rights and entitlements but we are not able to provide legal advice or legal representation. If we cannot help, we will provide you with a list of qualified legal representatives.
You should also contact us regarding:

Maintenance issues- to report problems with your asylum accommodation. We will liaise with the accommodation provider on your behalf to address these.

Request for assistance- if you feel there is a risk to your/your family's health and wellbeing. This can be to report suspected child neglect, domestic violence, sexual harassment or exploitation, anti-social behaviour, destitution or homelessness or suspected extremism or radicalisation.

Asylum payment issues- in case your card is lost or stolen, you forget your PIN, receive incorrect payment or don't receive your payment. We will liaise with the payment provider on your behalf.

Complaints- if you wish to make a complaint regarding asylum services provided by Migrant Help, your accommodation provider, the asylum support payments provider or the Home Office. Please complete this form via our portal. You can also contact our 24/7/365 helpline via 0808 8010 503 or via webchat. Making a complaint will not affect the outcome of your asylum claim or the length of time it will take to make a decision on your claim.

Feedback- to continuously improve the support available throughout your asylum claim journey. You can tell us about your experience of services delivered by Migrant Help, your accommodation provider, the asylum support payments provider or the Home Office. We will pass your comments onto the appropriate organisation. You can complete the feedback formhere.

If you are a third party organisation and wish to contact Migrant Help on behalf of an asylum seeker, please include a signed consent form. Include your details as well, in case we need to contact you for further information.

Finally, we would like to remind all partners that the [email protected] email inbox is monitored Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm excluding public bank holidays. This inbox is for complaints against Migrant Help only.

If the complaint is against the AASC provider (asylum accommodation), the asylum support payment provider (PFS) or asylum services provided by the Home Office, please make contact via one of the options below which are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Have you claimed or are you intending to claim asylum in the UK? Migrant Help provides independent advice and guidance to assist asylum seekers in the UK move through and understand the asylum process. We run a free asylum helpline available 24/7/365 and accessible to all asylum seekers in the UK.

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With offices in Belfast and Portstewart, Acacia Path serves in various locations. We welcome newcomers wholeheartedly in the name of Jesus. We strive to treat all with dignity and respect as image-bearers of God, regardless of their background. We provide various support services to this end, including English classes, signposting to local resources, and helping navigate a new culture.

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Tommy's Helpline in partnership with Five X More for Black and Black Mixed-Heritage women

This specialist midwife helpline in partnership with Five X More supports Black and Black Mixed-Heritage women and birthing people in the UK with any aspect of your pregnancy journey.

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The Chinese Welfare Association exist to secure the future of the Chinese community in Northern Ireland within a framework of racial equality and enable all sections of the community to fully participate in both the development of the community and the wider society.

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Securing the future of the Chinese community in Northern Ireland

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Northern Ireland Somali Association (NISA) is a charitable organization ( Charity no. NIC106876) and was established in 2012 to support well-being and human dignity of Somali people and other new arrivals in Northern Ireland through researches, education, advocacy, information, empowerment and support.

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Northern Ireland Somali Association (NISA)

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Northern Ireland Somali Association (NISA)

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striveing to support the integration process of Somali into local communities throughout Northern Ireland as well as raising awareness of the challenges, problems and difficulties faced Somali community in Northern Ireland such as education gaps, language barriers

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Belfast Islamic Centre was established in 1978 by a group of Muslims from the local community to provide a focus for all Muslims living in Northern Ireland. The centre operates for the benefit of all Muslims irrespective of their ethnic background, gender, country of origin or age. At present those who use the centre represent 42 nationalities.

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"Whoever builds a mosque for the sake of Allah, like a sparrow's nest for Allah or even smaller, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise". [Muslim] Alhamdulillah refurbishment work of Phase 1 commenced in August 2022 and the building was ready for use from January 2024.

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Indian Community Centre, Belfast | Indian Community Centre | Northern Ireland

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Indian Community Centre, Belfast is a voluntary organisation promoting integration for the Indian diaspora and awareness of the Indian culture.

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Five X More Black Maternal Health App and Maternity Support for Black Mothers — FIVEXMORE

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The Five X More Learning Hub App provides Black mothers with culturally tailored pregnancy and parenting support. Join a community dedicated to improving Black maternal health and access expert resources. Available on Apple and Google Play.

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Nigerian Community Northern Ireland (NICONI)

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Nigerian Community Northern Ireland (NICONI)

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Welcome to the official website of the Nigerian Community in Northern Ireland (NICONI). Follow us for events, activities and updates.

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Belfast City of Sanctuary’s aim is the promote and build a culture of welcome and hospitality for people seeking sanctuary and a home in Belfast Latest News

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Get help as a refugee or asylum seeker | British Red Cross

If you are a refugee or asylum seeker in the UK, we may be able to offer you practical and emotional support.

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We use a selection of our own and third-party cookies on the pages of this website: Essential cookies, which are required in order to use the website; functional cookies, which provide better easy of use when using the website; performance cookies, which we use to generate aggregated data on website use and statistics; and marketing cookies, which are used to display relevant content and advertising. If you choose “ACCEPT ALL”, you consent to the use of all cookies. You can accept and reject individual cookie types and revoke your consent for the future at any time at “Settings”.

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The Motherhood Group - Supporting the Black Maternal Experience

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Blackmums App - The Community App for Black Mothers

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Belfast Family Support Hubs – Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP)

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If you feel you can not afford what you need for your baby please ask a midwife to do a baby basics referral for you.

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Baby Basics is a volunteer-led project aiming to support new mothers and families who are struggling to meet the financial and practical burden of looking after a new baby. Baby Basics started in Sheffield in the spring of 2009, this centre continues to support families across Sheffield working with a wide range of frontline health and social care professionals. There is an ever increasing network of Baby Basics centres across the country each staffed by a committed team of volunteers. For your nearest Baby Basics please click here.

Baby Basics provides much needed essentials and equipment to mothers and families who are unable to provide these items for themselves; including but not limited to teenage mums, people seeking asylum and women fleeing domestic abuse and trafficking.

Working with midwives, health visitors and other professional groups to provide support directly where it is most needed, Baby Basics volunteers lovingly collect, sort and package a 'Moses Basket' of clothing, toiletries and essential baby equipment as an attractive gift to new mothers.

The aim is to help these new mothers practically and generously, demonstrating the love of God through our care. God is at the centre of Baby Basics as we are inspired and motivated by His heart for everyone. Every day we continue - and every item we send out, is thanks to His kindness, grace and provision.

Our vision is based on Matthew 25:37-40:

Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

Do You Know Someone Who Needs Our Help?

If you work with vulnerable women or families who are struggling to provide for their newborn baby please get in touch with us.

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Baby Basics is a volunteer-led project aiming to support new mothers and families who are struggling to meet the financial and practical burden of looking after a new baby. Baby Basics started in Sheffield in the spring of 2009, this centre continues to support families across Sheffield working with a wide range of frontline health and social care professionals.

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Are you struggling with food poverty. Ask a member of staff arrange a food voucher for you.

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We’re working to end the need for emergency food provision in Northern Ireland – find out what we’re doing and how you can get involved.

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Counselling All Nations Services (CANS) is a Belfast-based charity offering professional, culturally sensitive mental health support to individuals from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, or whose first language is not English.

When you submit a query via the form, CANS will reply as soon as possible with advice toward receiving the right help.

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Counselling All Nations Services provides multi-lingual counselling for all communities in Northern Ireland.

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Our overall aim is to tackle racism and eliminate barriers against new and settled migrant communities in NI.

Migrant Centre NI (MCNI) is a registered Charity (no.105750) and a limited company (no.611585) with 6 Board members and 9 staff members. The organisation was initially established as The Belfast Migrant Centre and officially recognised as a charity in March 2012. In 2014, to reflect the work of the organisation the name was changed to the current Migrant Centre NI.

MCNI was established to protect the rights of migrant workers in NI, tackle racism, eliminate barriers against migrant workers, advance education and raise public awareness about their rights. MCNI has 3 offices across NI, in Belfast, Lurgan and Derry~Londonderry.

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Our overall aim is to tackle racism and eliminate barriers against new and settled migrant communities in NI. Migrant Centre NI (MCNI) is a registered Charity (no.105750) and a limited company (no.611585) with 6 Board members and 9 staff members. The

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Volunteer with us

Over 16,000 highly trained volunteers support the delivery of our service. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and find volunteering rewarding, challenging and fun. We have a range of roles in local Citizens Advice and Witness Service, want to find out more?

Our volunteer opportunities

Find your local Citizens Advice

For more information and advice

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Online free advice from Citizens Advice to help you find a way forward, whatever the problem. Our research enables us to campaign on issues affecting people's lives.

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Protecting people and their rights is at the heart of everything we do. We offer free, independent and specialist legal advice, casework and representation in the areas of social security, employment and immigration.

Our advisers provide free, confidential and specialist advice and legal support on social security, employment and immigration issues.

Latest news

Keep up to date with all our latest news.

Connect with us

Read about the dynamic and pioneering work of our Migration Justice Project and the team's dedication to helping refugees, asylum seekers and migrant communities in Northern Ireland.

For over 45 years, we have been working for social justice in Northern Ireland. During that time, we have helped thousands of people challenge decisions that affect their rights through free, independent and specialist legal advice, casework and representation.

27,421

Last year, we gave 27,421 pieces of legal advice to people living in Northern Ireland.

3,763

We provided 3,763 people with legal support in 2022-2023.

£1.5

Last year, we achieved over £1.5 million in financial settlements for our clients.

Join our mailing list to be updated on the latest news and publications from Law Centre NI.

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Protecting people and their rights is at the heart of everything we do. We offer free, independent and specialist legal advice, casework and representation in the areas of social security, employment and immigration. Our advisers provide free, confidential and specialist advice and legal support on social security, employment and immigration issues.

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Maternity Action is the UK’s maternity rights charity dedicated to promoting, protecting and enhancing the rights of all pregnant women, new mothers and their families to employment, social security and health care.

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challenging inequality : promoting wellbeing

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Unseen is a UK charity with its head office in Bristol. We provide safehouses and support in the community for survivors of trafficking and modern slavery. We also run the UK Modern Slavery & Exploitation Helpline and work with individuals, communities, business, governments, other charities and statutory agencies to stamp out slavery for good.

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Unseen UK | Working towards a world without slavery

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The leading UK charity fighting slavery.

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Read more about this guide on the About page.

Find the information you need for your situation using the contents bar on the left - there's information about asylum cases, human rights cases, and immigration cases. Your situation might fall into more than one of these categories.

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A step-by-step guide to the UK asylum and immigration system The Right to Remain Toolkit is free to use, and it's for people who want to learn more about the legal process, or a particular part of the legal process.

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As a community and voluntary organisation, our innovative services are trauma aware and we are committed to meeting the ever changing needs of our service users without judgement.

We are commissioned by public sector bodies and government departments from across the island of Ireland and deliver services to support, house and engage adults, young people, families and children who are -

Facing family breakdown

Displaced from their country of origin

Living with an offending past

Dealing with alcohol and drug issues

Street homeless or facing homelessness

Living with the impact of suicide

Dealing with mental health issues

Engaging in alternative education and employability supports

Mentoring for Children Looked After

Members of the Traveller Community

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Explore our transformative services, impactful initiatives, and inspiring stories.

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This is delivered to expectant mothers and parents of babies under 3 years of age . It has similar content to the Mood Matters Adult programme but focuses very much on the issues affecting this particular target group. There is a strong emphasis on looking after the mental health of both the parent and the child.

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Asylum seekers and refugees: living in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland welcomes people from across the world who are seeking sanctuary from persecution. To help you adapt to life here make sure that you know how to get the support available to you, including healthcare, housing, employment and access to education.

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If you are looking for a parent and toddler group near you this website is a good place to start.

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Search Results in Parent & Toddler Category

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Parent & Toddler services/listings in Northen Ireland.

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Are you looking for a local breastfeeding support group. This website is a good place to start.

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If you live in a Sure Start Area you will have been referred at booking to your local Sure Start. If you have recently moved house and would like a new referral please ask your midwife. If you are from the Roma community or the Chinese community ask your midwife to refer you to the South Belfast Surestart which provide Belfast wide support for these communities.

Referral forms below.

Roma- email- jillrobertson@surestartsb.org (see flyer below)

Chinese- email- saumei@surestartsb.org

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Sure Start programme support parents with children aged under four years old, living in disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland. The programme can help a parent from pregnancy until their child starts school. With Sure Start’s ongoing support, a child can do well at school and flourish at home.

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Toy Box- Irish Traveller or Roma Families

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Toy Box- Irish Traveller or Roma Families

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Toybox, in partnership with children and parents, provides a rights-based outreach service which aims to significantly reduce social and educational inequalities experienced by Traveller and Roma children aged 0-4. A team of outreach Project Workers deliver the Toybox programme across Northern Ireland. Toybox uses HighScope, a quality approach to early years care and education based around the evidence-based concept that children construct their own learning by being actively involved in working with people, materials and ideas. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in play sessions in order to support their children’s development. Ask you midwife of health visitor to refer you (form available below)

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If you lived within a sure start area at booking you should have already been referred with your consent. If you have moved into a Sure Start area ask your midwife or health visitor to refer you to the appropriate one.

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A regional circle of support that every parent across Northern Ireland can access to improve their mental and emotional well-being and move into fulfilling and healthy lives

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The Parent Rooms – Creating a Circle of Support For Parents

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You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a Sure Start Maternity Grant. Find out more here. This grant is not available to those with 'no recourse to public funds'.

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Sure Start Maternity Grant is a £500 payment to help with the costs of a new baby: what you’ll get, eligibility and how to apply (claim form SF100).

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(this leaflet is available in other languages on our Multilingual Maternity Resources site- see Interpreting/ Translations tab)

If you’re more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you’re eligible, you’ll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We’ll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

Apply via this website.

For those with 'no recourse to public funds' you can apply to explore eligibility.

Ask for an application form via email. Only use this email address if you think you cannot claim public funds because of your immigration status.

Healthystartclaim@dhsc.gov.uk

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What is Healthy Start?

If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We'll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow's milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow's milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins - these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children - these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

If you live in Scotland

You can get help from Best Start Foods (opens in a new tab) instead.

Advice on healthy eating

For more advice on healthy eating, visit:

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If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops.

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Maternity Grant for Women Seeking Asylum

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Maternity Grant for Women Seeking Asylum

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"Maternity grants for asylum seekers

A pregnant asylum seeker in receipt of Section 95 is entitled to a maternity grant of £300. The maternity payment can only be claimed once but is available for each baby. Therefore, twins are entitled to £600. You must make the claim 11 weeks before the expected due date or up to 6 months after the birth. You can also claim if your baby was born outside the UK and you qualify for asylum support and your baby is less than three months old or in exceptional cases.

Extra payment for babies and pregnant asylum seekers

Pregnant asylum seekers can claim an extra payment of £5.25 a week during your pregnancy as well as £9.20 per week for a child under 1 year and £5.25 per week for a child between one and three years old.

To claim extra payments during pregnancy you must write to the Home Office informing them that you are pregnant, and include an original copy of either the MAT B1 maternity certificate (which is available from a midwife or GP from about 20 weeks) or a letter from your midwife or GP confirming the pregnancy.

To claim extra payments for babies and children under 3 years, you should write to the Home Office informing them of your child’s birth and age, and include the original full birth certificate for the child concerned. If this is not available some other original formal evidence confirming the birth should be enclosed.

Both maternity grants and extra payments for pregnant women and children under 3 years, are added to the weekly payments on your Aspen card."

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Asylum-seekers - overview
Who is classed as an asylum seeker?
You are an asylum seeker if you have entered the UK and made a claim for asylum or a claim under Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) (including humanitarian or temporary protection). These claims are either made at the port of entry or, if you have already entered the UK, at the Home Office. You remain an asylum seeker whilst your claim is being considered by the Home Office or, if the Home Office refuses your claim, whilst your appeal is being considered.
What type of support is available for asylum seekers?
The type of support available to asylum seekers is called asylum support and is available from the Home Office. It is often referred to as Section 95 support as it is provided under Section 95 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (and was previously referred to as NASS support as it used to be provided by the National Asylum Support Service). The Home Office also provides support to some groups of refused asylum seekers who meet a narrow criteria. This is known as Section 4 support as it is provided under Section 95 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. For more information on support for refused asylum seekers, see Refused asylum seekers - financial support and housing.
Social Security Benefits
In general asylum seekers are excluded from most social security benefits. However in very limited circumstances there are exceptions that mean you can claim a particular benefit. If you have a partner who is not an asylum seeker, they may be entitled to benefits, and for certain benefits you will be included in their claim. If you are a child and live with an adult who is responsible for you, they may be entitled to claim benefits that include an amount for you. For more information see Asylum seekers: Maternity rights and benefits.

Home Office Support for asylum seekers (Section 95 support)
What is Section 95 Support?
Section 95 support refers to asylum support provided by the government under Section 95 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. It consists of accommodation and cash or the option of cash only.
Who is eligible for Section 95 Support?
To be eligible for Section 95 support you must be over 18 years and meet the eligibility criteria. There are three main requirements which are:
Ongoing Asylum claim
To apply for Section 95 support you must have an ongoing asylum claim or a claim under Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Right. This means that you are either waiting for a decision from the Home Office on your asylum claim or Article 3 claim or, if the Home Office has refused your claim, you are in the process of appealing against the Home Office's decision. These appeals are heard by an independent tribunal called the First Tier Tribunal Asylum and Immigration.
Destitution test
As well as having an ongoing asylum claim or appeal you also need to meet the destitution test. An asylum seeker is considered 'destitute' if you do not have adequate accommodation or enough money to meet living expenses for yourself and any dependants you have.

'Adequate accommodation' largely means a place that you can freely access, a place where your family members can also live and a place where you and your family members, are not at risk of violence.

'Living expenses' refers to the amount of money an asylum seeker needs to feed yourself and to buy essential items such as clothing and toiletries.
Claiming asylum as soon as reasonable practicable.
Lastly, you must also have made an asylum or Article 3 claim as soon as reasonably practicable. This means that you either need to apply for asylum at port when you first enter the UK (i.e. airport), or within three days of entering the UK. This rule however does not apply to asylum seekers with dependent children or where the failure to provide support would result in you being both homeless and having no money to feed yourself.
Is support available for family members?
You are entitled to claim support for your dependants. Dependants include your spouse, children, or their spouse, who are under 18 years, and other close family members who are under 18 years and have been living as part of your household for a for at least six months. Adults over 18 years who have a disability will also be regarded as dependants.
How to make an application for Section 95 support
You will not normally be able to apply for support until you have attended a screening interview with the Home Office. A screening interview is the first stage in the asylum process and normally takes place the same day you make a claim for asylum. These interviews take place at the Home Office screening units. If you wish to make a claim for asylum you need to make an appointment in advance. However, if you are destitute you can attend the asylum screening unit without an appointment and ask for a screening interview on the same day.

As part of the screening interview the Home Office will assess whether you are destitute and require accommodation immediately. If the Home Office decide that you do they will place you and members of your family in temporary accommodation. If the Home Office decides that you are not at risk of immediate destitution, because you have somewhere to stay and have enough money to support yourself, they will provide you with the contact details for organisations that can help you to complete the form when, and if, that support comes to an end.

Once in temporary accommodation you will receive assistance to complete an application for S.95 support. This is made using a form known as an ASF1. The same form is also used when making a claim for Section 4 support if your asylum claim and any appeals have been refused. For more information on section 4 support see Refused asylum seekers - financial support and housing.

These forms are lengthy and are partly used to assess whether you have any assets you can use to support yourself. Assets include cash, savings, investments, property (both in the UK and abroad) or vehicles such as a car. If you have assets you can use or sell, the Home Office will expect you to support yourself with the proceeds. You can apply for Section 95 support once you have used up these assets.
How long does the application process take?
It can take up to a month, or more, for the Home Office to make a decision on whether to provide Section 95 support. You can remain in temporary accommodation whilst the application is being processed.

Types of support available
Accommodation and support
In most cases, if eligible, you are provided with accommodation and cash support payments. The accommodation will be outside London and the southeast unless there are exceptional reasons why you need to remain in this area.
Subsistence only support
You can ask to be provided with subsistence only support. Subsistence only support is normally requested if you have somewhere to live, such as with family or friends, but you do not have money to buy food for yourself. In these cases the Home Office may provide you with a cash only allowance.
Support payments
Asylum support is a fixed amount for both adults and children and is currently £49.18 each member of your family. Extra payments are given to pregnant women and children under 3 years (see below).

You will receive your payment and payments for your dependants, through an Aspen card. Your allowance is loaded on to an Aspen card every week. You can use the Aspen card to withdraw cash from a cash machine at a bank.

Additional support for if you are pregnant or have a child under 3
Maternity grants for asylum seekers
A pregnant asylum seeker in receipt of Section 95 is entitled to a maternity grant of £300. The maternity payment can only be claimed once but is available for each baby. Therefore, twins are entitled to £600. You must make the claim 11 weeks before the expected due date or up to 6 months after the birth. You can also claim if your baby was born outside the UK and you qualify for asylum support and your baby is less than three months old or in exceptional cases.
Extra payment for babies and pregnant asylum seekers
Pregnant asylum seekers can claim an extra payment of £5.25 a week during your pregnancy as well as £9.20 per week for a child under 1 year and £5.25 per week for a child between one and three years old.

To claim extra payments during pregnancy you must write to the Home Office informing them that you are pregnant, and include an original copy of either the MAT B1 maternity certificate (which is available from a midwife or GP from about 20 weeks) or a letter from your midwife or GP confirming the pregnancy.

To claim extra payments for babies and children under 3 years, you should write to the Home Office informing them of your child's birth and age, and include the original full birth certificate for the child concerned. If this is not available some other original formal evidence confirming the birth should be enclosed.

Both maternity grants and extra payments for pregnant women and children under 3 years, are added to the weekly payments on your Aspen card.
How to apply for the maternity grant and extra payments
Details of where to apply for a maternity grant and extra payments can be found on the Home Office website. See https://www.gov.uk/asylum-support/how-to-claim.

The Home Office should return original documents such as birth certificates once it has processed the request for a maternity payment. However, it is advisable that claims are sent by recorded delivery and keep a copy of all documents sent.

You can also call Migrant Help's Freephone advice for any queries you have about asylum support payments: tel: 08088010503.
Late claims for maternity grants
If you have been unable to claim a maternity grant on time, due to illness or some other difficulty, you should still request a maternity grant and include a statement outlining the reasons why you were unable to apply within the specified timeframe.

Refusal of Section 95 support and appeal rights
What happens if Section 95 support is refused?
After assessing an application for Section 95 support the Home Office may decide that you are not eligible for support. There are various reasons why this can happen. For example, the Home Office may consider that you are not destitute or that you do not have an ongoing asylum claim. In most cases you will have the right to appeal against the decision not to grant support.

If the Home Office refuses an application for Section 95 support they will write to you outlining the reasons why they have come to this decision. This letter should also enclose a Notice of Appeal form which is the form used to lodge these appeals. An appeal needs to be lodged five working days from the date the letter was posted. These appeals are dealt with by an independent tribunal called the First Tier Tribunal Asylum Support.
Section 57 Decisions
The Home Office may also refuse to assess an application for asylum support if they consider that the information provided is either not accurate or is incomplete, or if they consider that you are not cooperating with Home Office enquires. These are called Section 57 decisions and there is usually no right to appeal against these decisions. If you are refused support on Section 57 grounds it is very important that you seek advice from an organisation that specialises in asylum support. These organisations may be able to help you provide an explanation or evidence which covers any information the Home Office considers is missing. See useful organisations at the bottom of this information sheet.
What happens if support is refused after an appeal?
If you lose your appeal at the First Tier Tribunal Asylum Support there is no further appeal you can make.

You may be able to re-apply for Section 95 if you can show that there has been a change in your circumstances since your initial support application, and that you now meet the criteria for Section 95 support. You should seek advice and assistance before making any new application.
Refused Asylum Seekers
If you are no longer entitled to receive Section 95 support, you may be eligible for Section 4 support from the Home Office. Section 4 support is available to some groups of refused asylum seekers who meet a narrow criteria. This includes refused asylum seeking women in the late stages of pregnancy. For more information see: Refused asylum seekers - financial support and housing.

Entitlement to NHS maternity care

All women in the UK are entitled to NHS maternity care regardless of immigration status - however, whether or not you will be charged for that care depends on your immigration and residence status at the time you receive the care.

You are entitled to FREE NHS maternity care if at the time you receive the care you:

have claimed asylum, humanitarian protection or temporary protection and are waiting for a decision on your claim or appeal,

are a dependent (for the purpose of their application) of someone in the group above,

have been granted refugee status, or humanitarian protection or temporary protection,

have leave to enter or remain in the UK as the dependent of someone in the group directly above

are receiving asylum support under Section 95,

are a refused asylum seeker in England and you are receiving asylum support Section 4(2),

are a refused asylum seeker in England and you are receiving Local Authority support under Part 1 of the Care Act 2014,

are a dependent (for the purpose of that support) of someone in either of the two groups directly above,

a refused asylum seeker in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland,

have been identified as a victim of trafficking or modern slavery (or you have had a decision that there are reasonable grounds to believe you are),

are a child in the care of the Local Authority, or

in immigration detention, or in prison or you have been detained for mental health treatment

If you started receiving maternity care when one of the groups above applied (other than if you cease to be covered by the group specific to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland), and then you cease to be covered by one of the groups above you can continue to receive NHS care for free if it is accepted as part of the same course of treatment..

If you received NHS maternity care in England before you made an application for asylum, humanitarian or temporary protection and at the time that you received the NHS care you were in the UK for the purpose of making that application, and you have now been granted refugee status or humanitarian or temporary protection, any charges for that maternity care must be cancelled and/or refunded.

Note: The list above covers groups that can be particularly relevant if you are currently seeking asylum, but it is not a complete list of all the groups entitled to free NHS maternity care. See below for further sources of information.
If you are chargeable for your maternity care
If you are chargeable for your maternity care, it cannot be delayed or refused because you cannot pay or have not paid.

Government guidance says that all maternity care (which includes all antenatal, birth and post-natal care) is regarded as immediately necessary treatment and must not be refused or delayed due to charging issues. Although you can be billed for care before you receive it, you must be provided with maternity care even if you have not made any payments before receiving it.

Note outstanding NHS debts can be notified to the Home Office and used as a basis to refuse certain immigration applications. For more information see: Information-sharing between the Home Office and the NHS.

For more information on asylum seekers entitled to free NHS maternity care see https://maternityaction.org.uk/advice/nhs-maternity-care-for-women-from-abroad-in-england/

If you think you have been wrongly charged for your maternity care get advice from Maternity Action's Maternity Care Access Advice Service (details at the end of this information sheet).

For information on your options if you have been charged for your maternity care see: Have you been charged for NHS maternity care in England?

For more information on NHS charging, including other groups entitled to free NHS treatment see our information sheet.
Services exempt from charging
Even if you are chargeable for NHS maternity care you can still receive certain services which are free for everyone that needs them, regardless of immigration or residence status. These include:

Accident and emergency (A&E) services up until the point you are accepted as an inpatient. A&E services provided at an outpatient appointment are chargeable.

Family planning services (not including pregnancy termination)

Diagnosis and treatment of certain contagious diseases e.g. TB or HIV,

Diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections

Treatment of any physical or mental condition that is a direct result of torture, female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic violence or sexual violence (as long as you have not travelled to the UK for the purpose of seeking this treatment).

This includes all ongoing treatment and psychological help that is needed as a direct result of the violence, FGM or torture. Government guidance says that treatment will include mental health services and maternity services needed as a consequence of sexual violence.
GP and other primary care
GP and primary care services are free of charge. Anyone in England, regardless of immigration status is entitled to register with a GP as an NHS patient and to have NHS treatment free of charge. This applies even if you are chargeable for hospital treatment.

For more information see: How to register with a GP in England.

Or
www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/AboutNHSservices/doctors/Documents/how-to-register-with-a-gp-leaflet.pdf
Some minor illnesses and injuries can be treated free of charge at NHS walk-in centres or at a minor injuries unit without the need for prior GP registration.
Help with prescriptions and health costs
Pregnant woman and low income families are entitled to help with healthcare costs. For more information see: Free prescriptions and NHS healthcare services for pregnant women.
This information sheet was written in January 2024. It is very important to get up-to-date advice as law and guidance changes. This guide is for information purposes only and should not be treated as legal advice. You are strongly advised to get personal legal advice about your individual circumstances.
Other useful information sheets

Where to go for more help

Maternity Action
www.maternityaction.org.uk
Migrant Women's Rights Service: Second tier advice service for midwives and advisers on financial support and housing options for migrant women and access to NHS maternity care. - 020 7251 6189 Monday and Thursday 2-4pm.

Email enquiries: migrantwomensrights@maternityaction.org.uk
https://maternityaction.org.uk/migrant-womens-rights-service/
Maternity Care Access Advice Service: for advice on NHS charges and access to NHS maternity care - 0808 800 0041 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 - 12. https://maternityaction.org.uk/maternity-care-access-advice-service/

Maternity Rights Advice Line: for advice on maternity and parental rights at work - 0808 802 0029 (National except London), 0808 802 0057 (London). https://maternityaction.org.uk/advice-line/
AIRE Centre
Advice on Individual Rights in Europe.

Free legal advice on European law

020 7831 4276 Mon. - Fri. 10 - 6pm
www.airecentre.org
Asylum Support Appeals Project
www.asaproject.org.uk
Advice on asylum support appeals - 020 3716 0283 Mon/Weds/Fri 2 -4pm.

Child Poverty Action Group
www.cpag.org.uk
Advice on benefits

For advisors only - 020 7812 5231, Mon-Fri 10-12 and 2-4pm
Citizens Advice
For information about your rights see: www.citizensadvice.org.uk

You can telephone the national Citizens Advice phone service on 03444 111 444

You can get help with Universal Credit claims through the free national Help to Claim service: England: 0800 144 8444, Wales: 0800 024 1220, Scotland: 0800 023 2581

For more information on how to find your local Citizens Advice Bureau, see:
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/contact-us/ Civil Legal Advice
If you are eligible for legal aid you can get free legal advice on 0345 345 4 345 (offers translation service). To check your eligibility see www.gov.uk/civil-legal-advice

To search for specialist legal advisers or solicitors in your area see: find-legal-advice.justice.gov.uk
Doctors of the World www.doctorsoftheworld.org.uk
Advice line: 0808 1647 686 (freephone) open 10am to 12 midday, Monday to Friday.

Email: clinic@doctorsoftheworld.org.uk

Free and confidential help to access healthcare
Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
For information and advice about discrimination law
www.equalityhumanrights.com Freedom from Torture
Care and treatment for victims of torture

London Centre Tel: 020 7697 7777

West Midlands Centre Tel: 0121 314 6825

North East Centre Tel: 0191 261 5825

North West Centre Tel: 0161 236 5744

Scottish Centre Tel: 0141 420 3161
GOV.UK
The government's online information service
Home Office www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration
UK Visas and Immigration contact centre - 0300 123 2241
HM Revenue & Customs
Tax Credit Helpline: 0345 300 3900 Mon - Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm, Sun 9am -5pm

Child Benefit: 0300 200 3100 Mon - Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-4pm

For queries about Statutory Maternity Pay, Adoption Pay, Paternity Pay and Shared Parental Pay:

Employees helpline 0300 200 3500

Employers helpline 0300 200 3200

For detailed guidance for employers on SMP, SAP, SPP and Statutory Sick Pay see www.gov.uk/government/collections/statutory-pay
HMRC Statutory Payments Disputes Team
For payments of Statutory Maternity Pay/Adoption Pay/Paternity Pay/Shared Parental Pay or Statutory Sick Pay when your employer is insolvent or refusing to pay: 0300 322 9422
Jobcentre Plus
To make new telephone benefit claims or request claim forms, including Maternity Allowance and Sure Start Maternity Grant: 0800 055 6688 Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm

For Universal Credit you are expected to make your claim on-line see www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit

Universal Credit helpline: if you cannot make an online claim or do not have an online account call: 0800 328 9344 Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm

Universal Credit helpline - for new claims and existing on-line claims: 0800 328 5644

For ESA/JSA/Income Support claims: 0800 169 0310 Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm

For Maternity Allowance claims: 0800 169 0283 Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm

For Sure Start Maternity Grant claims: 0800 169 0140 Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm

Kalayaan
Support for migrant domestic workers

020 7243 2942.
www.kalayaan.org.uk

No Recourse to Public Funds Network
Information on local authority support for people subject to immigration control.
Contact: Islington, 222 Upper Street, London N1 1XR.

Tel: 020 7527 7121
www.nrpfnetwork.org.uk
For guidance on local authority support for destitute adults see: www.nrpfnetwork.org.uk/Documents/Practice-Guidance-Adults-England.pdf
Migrant Help www.migranthelpuk.org/pages/category/asylum
Provides assistance to asylum seekers to complete applications for asylum support. Advice available in several languages.

Freephone: 0808 801 0503
Project 17 www.project17.org.uk
Advice line: 07963 509 044

Email: info@project17.org.uk

Advice for families experiencing exceptional poverty who need advice and assistance to improve their access to local authority support.

Refugee Council
www.refugeecouncil.org.uk
Information and assistance for refugees and asylum seekers.
Head Office - 020 7346 6700

Children's Office - for children under 18 - 020 7346 1134 '
Rights of Women
www.rightsofwomen.org.ukFree legal advice on domestic violence, immigration and asylum issues.
Helpline 020 7490 7689.
Salvation Army
If you think you are a victim of trafficking and would like advice and support you can call the Salvation Army 24 hour confidential Referral Helpline:

Telephone 0800 808 3733 - open 24 hours, seven days a week
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/modern-slavery Turn2us
Online benefits calculator and grant search
www.turn2us.org.uk Immigration advice
You can search for registered immigration advisers in your area at: www.gov.uk/find-an-immigration-adviser
Destitution projects Trussell Trust www.trusselltrust.org/
Help with finding a food bank in your area
Red Cross www.redcross.org.uk/What-we-do/Refugee-support/Where-to-find-us
Red Cross branches across the UK that provide clothing and food parcels.
Refugee Council www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/resource-category/guides-for-refugees/
Directory of services providing destitution support.

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Asylum seekers - financial support and housing - Maternity Action

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This page contains information on:Asylum-seekers - overviewHome Office Support for asylum seekers (Section 95 support)Types of support availableAdditional support for if you are pregnant or have a child under 3Refusal of Section 95 support and appeal rightsEntitlement to NHS maternity careOther useful information sheetsWhere to go for more help January 2024 Asylum-seekers - overview more "

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Do you think you may or have been, a victim of slavery or human trafficking? Have you come into contact with someone you suspect is being exploited? You can speak to someone in your own language today.

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Do you think you may be, or have been, a victim of slavery or human trafficking? Have you come into contact with someone you suspect is being exploited? You can speak to someone in your own language today.

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English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses provided by Further Education colleges in Northern Ireland are free for refugees, asylum seekers and other specific categories of displaced migrants.

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All 6 Further Education Colleges in Northern Ireland deliver accredited ESOL courses.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses provided by Further Education colleges in Northern Ireland are free for refugees, asylum seekers and other specific categories of displaced migrants.

Please see link below for the College in your area:

Belfast Met - ESOL Assessment and Enrolment (belfastmet.ac.uk)

South Eastern Regional College (SERC) - ESOL - SERC

Southern Regional College (SRC) - Courses | Southern Regional College (src.ac.uk)

South West College (SWC) - ESOL | South West College (swc.ac.uk)

Northern Regional College (NRC) - Search Results | NRC Northern Regional College

North West Regional College (NWRC) - English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) | North West Regional College (nwrc.ac.uk)

Community providers and private schools also offer ESOL classes across Northern Ireland and, via this website, you will be able to search for additional English language provision available in your area. Most free classes delivered within the community setting, are only available to adults (over the age of 18).

Further Education ESOL provision delivered by colleges can cater for anyone over the age of 16 (subject to availability of spaces).

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ESOL NI - a mixture of part-time accredited and non-accredited english-speaking teaching resources in Northern Ireland

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This site provides some links to where you can find ESOL classes.

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Improving your English can help you get more out of your life in the UK. It will also help if you want to study, improve your CV, or apply to become a British citizen.

Improving your English

If English isn't your main language, you can do a course to help you improve your English. These courses are called ESOL or English for Speakers of other Languages. Improving your English will make it easier to:

talk to doctors and teachers

understand the laws and customs of the UK

do a course and get a qualification

help your child with homework

pass the Life in the UK test and become a British citizen

What an ESOL course involves

ESOL courses cover:

speaking and listening

reading and writing

vocabulary

punctuation and grammar

There are courses at different levels so you'll be able to start at the right level for you.

Where you can get advice

There are ESOL courses throughout the UK and advice is available to help you choose the right course for you. For free advice contact your local Careers Adviser.

'Life in the UK' test

You take the 'Life in the UK' test if you're applying to be a British citizen and your level of English is ESOL Entry 3 or above. If your level of English is lower than ESOL Entry 3 and you wish to apply for naturalisation, you will need to do English language (ESOL) and citizenship classes together instead.

To talk to someone about the 'Life in the UK' test, call the:

More useful links

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English for speakers of other languages (ESOL)

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Improving your English can help you get more out of your life in the UK. It will also help if you want to study, improve your CV, or apply to become a British citizen. If English isn't your main language, you can do a course to help you improve your English.

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Please ask a member of staff for a card if you would like one.

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This is the BHSCT multilingual resource page for the Belfast Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital. This page is for information purposes only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. If you have urgent concerns about your pregnancy or postnatal recovery, please contact MAU on 02896150596. If it is an emergency, dial 999.

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Ten Steps to Spot Jaundice in Black and Brown Babies - NHS – Race and Health Observatory

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We provide support to anyone impacted by sexual abuse from age 8 and upwards. Anyone else impacted by abusive relationships/domestic abuse can access support via the 24/7 Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414 help@dsahelpline.org, or via dsahelpline.org. Anyone in need of immediate support before making a referral to Nexus or whilst waiting for Nexus support to commence can also contact the Helpline at any time of day, any day of the year.
Children & Young People's Counselling Update
We are pleased to inform that as of Thursday 1st February 2024 we have resumed our referrals from children aged 8+ as counsellor capacity has now increased and we are working hard to triage and prioritise referrals to the most appropriate supports available. Unfortunately referrals from children under this age are still unavailable until appropriate funding becomes available for this age group. Please note a waiting list will be in place as we work through the children who were already waiting.

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We provide support to anyone impacted by sexual abuse from age 8 and upwards. Anyone else impacted by abusive relationships/domestic abuse can access support via the 24/7 Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on 0808 802 1414 help@dsahelpline.org, or via dsahelpline.org .

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Abuse costs us all. But it shouldn't cost this much.Take action today Abuse costs us all. But it shouldn't cost this much.Take action today We're working together against domestic abuse until wo...

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Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE)

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Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE)

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The Housing Executive - Welcome to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive website

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This is the website of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. We are the strategic Housing Authority for Northern Ireland.

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Our goal is to end Honour Based Abuse in the UK. We run a national helpline, offer training to professionals, gather data to inform policies and services, and campaign for change.

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands | Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands works to support anyone affected by the death of a baby; improve the care bereaved parents receive; and create a world where fewer babies die.

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Support for Black communities | Sands - Saving babies’ lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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We are so sorry that you find yourself here, but we are very glad you’ve found us. Pregnancy and baby loss affects all communities, but we know that some can face additional barriers when looking for support. That’s why we have created a safe space for black parents, family members and others. Sands is here to support you for as long as you need and support is available in many different ways.

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Support for South Asian communities- SANDS

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Support for South Asian communities- SANDS

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Baby loss affects all communities; however, we understand baby loss can be looked upon differently within individual communities and this can lead to additional barriers when looking for support. Bereaved parents from South Asian communities have told us about the stigma, taboo and isolation that can be associated with baby loss.

We recognise the need for greater engagement and tailored support for South Asian parents, family members and others to be able to turn to. That is why we have created this dedicated safe, and confidential space for you, for as long as you need us, and no matter how much time has passed since your loss. We are here for you and our support is available in many ways.

"While we were supported, we also had people say, 'It is God's will, you will have another', 'It is better it happened now than later in his life', 'at least he died before you got to know him', the list is endless."

The words of a bereaved South Asian mother

The Sands National Helpline provides a safe and confidential place for anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby. Whether your baby died long ago or recently, we are here for you. The team are available to speak to on the telephone from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday and 6pm to 9pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Please note we are not open during bank holidays unless stated on the website.

The telephone helpline is free to call from landlines and mobiles on 0808 164 3332.

You can also email the team at helpline@sands.org.ukor download our Bereavement Support flyer for South Asian families and communities.

If you have suffered baby loss and require support or want to know more about our work and how to get involved, please get in touch with Madhuri Bedi, who is our dedicated Bereavement Support Services Officer for baby loss within South Asian communities at madhuri.bedi@sands.org.uk

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Support for South Asian communities | Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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We are so sorry that you find yourself here, but we are very glad you've found us. Baby loss affects all communities; however, we understand baby loss can be looked upon differently within individual communities and this can lead to additional barriers when looking for support.

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We’re the leading charity stopping the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss and making pregnancy and birth safe – for everyone.

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Together, for every baby - Charity for Babies | Tommy’s

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Tommy’s is the largest UK pregnancy and baby loss charity, funding research into stillbirth, premature birth and miscarriage and providing trusted pregnancy and baby loss information and support.

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"If you’ve been affected by miscarriage, molar pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy, we hope this website will provide the information and support that you’re looking for."

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After thirty years of service our very first National Director, Ruth Bender Atik is retiring and we are recruiting for a new CEO. Our next Chief Executive will have the full support of the trustees to develop the strategy that will take the Miscarriage Association through the next chapter of its journey, based on a [...]
Continue reading "

We are so thankful to everyone who contributes to Baby Loss Awareness Week. Sharing stories, raising funds and getting involved on social media - it all helps us to spread the word and raise awareness of the impact of miscarriage, ectopic and molar pregnancy. Crucially, you help us all create and maintain this special opportunity [...]
Continue reading "

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has updated its guidance for doctors on caring for people with recurrent miscarriage. They have also published a patient information leaflet. What is new? There is a change in the definition of recurrent miscarriage more consideration of the occasions where someone might be offered tests after two [...]
Continue reading "

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The Miscarriage Association:Pregnancy Loss Information & Support

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Learn about the Miscarriage Association, how to cope, and support those experiencing pregnancy loss. Access vital resources and information.

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"Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. We support children and young people (up to the age of 25) when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live, and parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying.

We offer free, confidential bereavement support for individuals, couples, children, young people, and families, by telephone, video or instant messenger, wherever you live in the UK. We also offer face-to-face support from a number of locations."

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We help children, young people, parents, and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.

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Counselling All Nations Services (CANS) is a Belfast-based charity offering professional, culturally sensitive mental health support to individuals from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, or whose first language is not English.

When you submit a query via the form, CANS will reply as soon as possible with advice toward receiving the right help.

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Counselling All Nations Services provides multi-lingual counselling for all communities in Northern Ireland.

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"Right Support Right Time- Starting over in a new place is hard. Sometime it's stress, sometimes it's sadness, sometimes it's just too much. We offer friendly, private workshops where you can feel lighter, meet other, and learn simple way to handle life's pressures- in a calm and respectful space. No judgment. No pressure. Just the right support- at the right time." (this leaflet also available in Arabic, Farsi, Tigrinya, and Ukrainian- see Multilingual Maternity Resources Padlet link in interpreting translations column)

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Lifeline. Samaritans. Victim Support. Women's Aid. - Interpreters Available

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Lifeline. Samaritans. Victim Support. Women's Aid. - Interpreters Available

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For Arabic, Somali, Russian and Ukrainian translations of this pdf please see Multilingual Maternity Resource padlet (Interpretation/ Translation column)

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English participant support info briefing- Lifeline. Samaritans. Victim Support. Women's Aid.

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Speranta- Roma Health Project (including Sure Start)

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Speranta- Roma Health Project (including Sure Start)

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If you are are from the Roma community, this is for you. Ask your midwife to refer you to the South Belfast Sure Start (who provide Belfast wide support) by attaching a Sure Start referral form (see below) to an email to jillrobertson@surestartsb.org

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International Organization for Migration (IOM), UK 

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International Organization for Migration (IOM), UK 

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IOM UK are pleased to be implementing a new project funded by Belfast City Council, providing IAA Level 1 Immigration Advice to newly arrived asylum seekers across Belfast. This project aims to provide a high quality advice and support service, located in community settings across North, South, East and West Belfast.

The project aims to support asylum seekers with advice, casework, and signposting to available local resources, on:

The asylum process, sources of support and local resources

Applying for refugee status, where and how to access legal representation

Support for refused asylum seekers looking to make fresh claims

Rights and entitlements, and raising safeguarding concerns

Advice for those transitioning or those granted a positive decision

IAA Level 1 Immigration Advice including:

Applications for leave in line

Settlement (Protection route) applications

Travel document applications

Email the above referral form completed to asylumlinkbelfast@iom.int

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Housing Rights | Helping people with homelessness and housing problems in Northern Ireland.

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Advice and information for people experiencing housing problems and homelessness.

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Mas Project - Maternal Advocacy & Support

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Mas Project - Maternal Advocacy & Support

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Maternal Advocacy and Support Project (the MAs) — Womens Resource and Development Agency

The Mas project (Maternal Advocacy and Support) provides maternal mental health support to women who are pregnant and/ or who have children up to the age of 3. After the success of the pilot project and the development of Mas 1, 2020-2023 we have been further supported by the National Lottery Community Fund to deliver Mas 2 from 2023-2026 Our centre partners for Mas 3 are Windsor Women’s Centre, Ballybeen Women’s Centre, Atlas Women’s Centre, Women’s Centre Derry and Strathfoyle, and Grace Family Centre, North Belfast.

We will also train rural groups in our Mas model by providing training and support for organisations to set up a maternal mental health support group for women in areas where there is minimal support and women may face increased isolation.

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Mas Project Maternal Advocacy and Support

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WELCOME TO WINDSOR WOMENS CENTRE - Windsor Womens Centre

"Windsor Women’s Centre is situated in the Village area of South Belfast and has been operating since 1990. The centre works within a community development framework to develop and promote equality of opportunity and champion practices and policies to better the lives of women and their families.

Situated in an area of high social and economic deprivation Windsor Women’s Centre provides much needed services to meet the diverse needs of women and their families from the surrounding communities.   The centre typically works with around 300 service users a week. The services provided includes access to a range of both accredited and non-accredited training and education courses, quality day care, after schools provision and advice and information."

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Entitlements to NHS services for migrants in England

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Growbaby Malone supports local families in Belfast who are in need (regardless of income, faith or background). They provide items for little ones aged 0-5.

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For women in the greater Shankill area (bt13, bt14,bt15)

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If you are are from the Chinese community, this is for you. Ask your midwife to refer you to the South Belfast Sure Start (who provide Greater Belfast support). Midwife should do a normal Sure Start referral to South Belfast Sure Start (regardless of address).

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FGM – National FGM Centre

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FGM – National FGM Centre

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FGM Identifying Type / Health Consequences

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FGM Identifying Type / Health Consequences

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FGM – National FGM Centre