HostNation North West introduces local people to refugees and asylum seekers in Greater Manchester. Our befrienders help make their refugee friend’s experiences of the city more positive through small acts of kindness, inclusion and friendship. 

HostNation has been matching refugees in London since 2017. We've made 500+ matches and had over 1000 people volunteer to befriend to date. We've just opened a new HostNation hub (HostNation North West) in Greater Manchester. We're actively recruiting friendly locals who have a few hours a week available to meet up and want to make refugees and asylum seekers feel more at home in our city. 

Befriending is a great chance for refugees to practice their English, learn more about British culture and to participate in the life of the city. Something as simple as a walk in the park, a coffee or a visit to a local art gallery can bring a sense of normality to someone whose life has been turned upside down. 

We are looking for friendly people who live and work in Manchester and can commit to a few hours a week to meet up (after work or at weekends) with someone who has fled persecution and is trying to rebuild their lives in the city. We will match you to someone based on your preferences and interests. We ask for three months initial commitment and after that, it is up to you if you want to continue; most of our friends do. You will be supported by the HostNation hub team, from the initial getting to know you and matching process, to checking in at key points during your befriending time. 

Volunteer befriending has great benefits for both volunteers and their refugee friends. 93% of our befrienders have described it as a 'rewarding experience' and over 80% have enjoyed positive and sustained relationships with their refugee friends. Our refugee friends describe how their English has improved, how they feel less lonely and more welcome but most of all, how it makes them feel human again, having a friend who treats them like family.