About CLEAR

In 2001, CLEAR was initiated to work with refugees and asylum seekers in Southampton in direct response to the government policy dispersal of 350 asylum seekers. The project was initiated by City Life Church to support the human rights of its clients and to alleviate need and hardship in these communities. CLEAR is a registered working name of the charitable company. CLEAR works in partnership with local government and other agencies to co-ordinate and deliver an effective service within the city.

CLEAR aims to improve the quality of life for refugees and asylum seekers in Southampton, providing free advice and supporting people in accessing local services to which they are entitled. We believe in empowerment through education, and in practical action to support established and developing refugee communities. CLEAR operates an advice and guidance centre, ESOL classes throughout the week, and helps with employment, business courses and access to education. This year CLEAR started a new programme, cohesive futures, of arts and music activities and cultural awareness sessions.

 
CLEAR has a long track record of working within a citywide partnership of organisations including Southampton City Council, local colleges of further education, and local voluntary and community sector providers. It has carried out local studies on behalf of the Southampton Partnership to identify the problems faced by the growing refugee population. With these partners, CLEAR has built up a detailed understanding and knowledge of the new communities and gained extensive experience of partnership working.

The Avenue Multicultural Centre, an inter-agency initiative to respond to needs of asylum seekers and refugees, provides a comprehensive advice shop where CLEAR works in partnership with the Red Cross and Avenue St Andrews Church and with Refugee Action, Refugee and Migrant Justice and local asylum housing contractors.

CLEAR has welcomed and supported the contribution of volunteers to the project and the added value that they bring. CLEAR relies on volunteers to provide back-up to its paid staff in the delivery of its services. They provide advice and give practical help by befriending clients. A number of more vulnerable clients and families will be linked to a volunteer so that they have someone who can spend individual time with them, with whom they can develop a personal relationship and from whom they will receive practical help.