My name is Caroline Herring and I have been appointed as ESOL Volunteer Coordinator for HWSF. 

The purpose of my role is to support the improvement of language skills and integration of refugees through creating and supporting a network of volunteer tutors in coordination with the HWSF Area Convenors.  I would like to hear from you if you are already volunteering in this capacity or, indeed, if you would like to. We are always looking for new volunteers.

Please get in touch with me to introduce yourselves. I am looking forward to  establishing a supportive network in Hertfordshire and welcome any suggestions and ideas.
Carolineherring52@gmail.com

The Refugee Council (in partnership with Oxfam) has published a report about the consequences of family separation on refugees in the UK. Several of the Hertfordshire families (supported by HWSF) are featured in the report, which concludes that restrictive UK laws are preventing close family members from being reunited, and therefore undermining the mental health and future of those resettled in the UK. 

You can read the full report here: www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/assets/0004/2515/Safe_but_not_settled.pdf

We are urging our members to contact their MP about supporting the Refugee Family Reunion Bill during the debate on 16th March. You can do this in less than a minute by clicking here: www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/savethedate