Refugee Week is a time to celebrate the stories, cultures, contributions and courage of people who have come to the UK in search of safety. It is also an important moment to challenge some of the myths and misconceptions that
What does it really mean to feel at home? It’s more than having a roof over your head or recognising your postcode. Feeling at home comes through everyday moments, chatting with neighbours, recognising familiar places, sharing laughter, and feeling part
What does it take to feel at home in a new place? For many New Scots, it’s built through everyday moments – learning English, finding work, meeting people and gaining confidence step by step. As our CEO Tesfu Gessesse shared
Mahmoud’s story at The Welcoming Starting a new life in a new country comes with challenges that aren’t always visible. New systems, a new language, and often, a sense of starting again from scratch. For many of our members, The
Two Welcoming members build community in the great outdoors Since last April, our community members Polly and Nataliia have been hard at work participating in the Ramblers’ Community Champions project designed to help people gain confidence and experience as leaders in
This story reflects one person’s journey of building confidence, skills and belonging after arriving in Edinburgh. I came to Edinburgh in 2024 to accompany my wife, who is pursuing her PhD at the University of Edinburgh, and to help take
This autumn, The Welcoming Association’s CEO Tesfu Gessesse shares a heartfelt message about unity, compassion, and the importance of protecting Scotland’s proud tradition of welcome. At a time when divisive voices are growing louder, Tesfu reminds us that the far-right’s
The Welcoming Association’s AGM 2025 celebrated community, leadership and solidarity, highlighting the importance of cohesion in divisive times.
The Welcoming Association has launched a new policy calling on the City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government to take stronger, coordinated action to support community cohesion. At a time when misinformation and hostility towards refugees, asylum seekers, and
The Welcoming’s Ukrainian community enjoyed a trip to Lindisfarne Castle, strengthening connections and building community on Holy Island.
