The ASSIST Winter Solidarity Appeal has now come to a close. To everyone who donated, shared, and fundraised, thank you!
In November 2025, when the ‘Restoring Order and Control’ inhumane asylum reforms were announced, the climate for people seeking sanctuary in the UK became increasingly hostile. But you chose a different path. You chose solidarity.
Against a backdrop of rising hate and growing dehumanisation, you said clearly: people seeking sanctuary are welcome here.
What We Achieved Together
Because you chose to Donate, Act, and Share between November 17th and the end of January, we have seen an extraordinary winter appeal:
- £25,239.01 raised in one-off donations.
- £10,209.49 raised by our dedicated community fundraisers.
- 8 new regular donors, providing £1,260 per year in recurring support
- £154 raised through our Solidarity Christmas Cards.
The Impact of Your Solidarity
Every penny of this support goes directly to our clients. To show you the scale of what your generosity has secured, here is how those funds translate into safety and stability:
- Supporting the Whole ASSIST Community: Your one-off gifts alone fund the entire two-year journey of support for over 11 different clients, ensuring they are never without a safety net from the moment they join us until they successfully move on.
- An Immediate Lifeline: The community fundraising total is enough to provide 8 clients with their full weekly welfare payments for an entire year while supported by ASSIST.
- Guaranteed Mobility: Over the next five years, the commitment from our new regular donors will provide 72 clients with a monthly bus pass. This covers nearly every client we currently support, ensuring they can access legal advice, healthcare, and community networks across the city.
I came to ASSIST, who helped me find a solicitor and launch a fresh claim; without this, I would never have got Leave to Remain. They provided welfare payments and access to food, which meant it was easiest to stay with friends as I could contribute something...once my own situation had improved I became a volunteer, and through volunteering and helping other people...I felt like I was useful; at ASSIST I am listened to and respected, and thanks to their help I feel like I am part of British society. - Souley, Client
Our Work Never Stops
While this appeal has ended, the challenges our clients face do not. Hostility doesn't take a day off, and neither do we.
If you missed the appeal or have only just found us, it is never too late to get involved. We still need your voice, your time, and your support to ensure that no one seeking asylum in Sheffield is forced into destitution or homelessness.
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Thank you for standing with us. Thank you for choosing solidarity.
