Important: ASSIST referrals are temporarily closed
From 1 September 2026, ASSIST Sheffield is temporarily closing referrals for a minimum of three months.
This means that we will not be accepting new referrals through our online referral form, by telephone or in person during this period.
This is a difficult decision, but it is necessary so that we can continue to provide high-quality support to the people already accessing our service. We have been supporting unusually high numbers of people for a sustained period, while also responding to increasingly complex needs and changes in asylum policy.
During this temporary closure, we will be focusing on strengthening our casework capacity, supporting people with their legal cases and helping people move towards longer-term solutions. This will also help us reduce pressure on our accommodation service, which is currently operating a waiting list.
We will provide further information when referrals are due to reopen.
Looking for support?
We have created an ASSIST Sheffield Signposting Guide to help people find other sources of support in Sheffield while referrals to ASSIST are closed.
The guide contains information about organisations and services that may be able to help with areas including accommodation, food, financial support, legal advice, health, immigration advice and other practical needs.
Please use and share this guide if you are supporting someone who may usually have been referred to ASSIST.
š ASSIST Sheffield Signposting Guide
Free Meals
Cheap Meals (Pay What You Can)
šØ In an emergency, call 999.
You can also visit our Places to go page for information about other organisations and welcoming spaces in Sheffield.
The Multi-Agency Drop-In
The Multi-Agency Drop-In takes place every Wednesday, 1ā4pm, at Victoria Hall, Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2JB.
The Drop-In brings together a range of organisations providing advice, information, practical support and signposting for people seeking sanctuary in Sheffield. No appointment is needed.
Please note: during ASSIST's temporary referral closure, attending the Drop-In does not create a referral to ASSIST. Our Help Desk will not be accepting new ASSIST referrals during the closure period.
Find out more about the Multi-Agency Drop-In here.
Who does ASSIST work alongside?
ASSIST supports single adults in Sheffield who have previously applied for asylum in the UK, have subsequently been refused asylum, and have no other available source of support.
Our service includes:
- Emergency accommodation for people at immediate risk of homelessness
- Temporary accommodation in one of our houses or with host families
- Small weekly welfare payments to help with essentials such as food
- Bus passes to help people attend medical, legal and Home Office appointments
- Help accessing other sources of support, including other charities, food banks and the Mulberry Health Clinic
If you already receive support from ASSIST
This temporary closure of referrals does not mean that existing support is ending.
Our teams will continue to work with people already accessing ASSIST, with a particular focus on casework, legal engagement and supporting people to move towards sustainable longer-term solutions.
If you are already supported by ASSIST and have a question, please contact your usual ASSIST contact.