​​Our Vision

A country where every newcomer, whatever their journey, is welcomed, supported, and empowered to live, work, learn, and belong with dignity.​

 

Our Mission

We walk alongside families and individuals from overseas, providing the tools, opportunities, and connections they need to:

• Build safe and stable lives.

• Access dignified, sustainable work.

• Learn English and understand UK systems.

• Join and contribute to the life of our communities.

 

Our Values

• Welcoming – We greet everyone with warmth, compassion, and an open door.

• Non-judgmental – We respect all backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences.

• Empowering – We help people gain skills, confidence, and independence.

• Inclusive – We celebrate diversity and bring communities together.

• Responsive – We adapt our services to meet real, changing needs.

 

Our Story

Founded in 2014 by Ilda Stafa, Welcome to the UK began as a small grassroots initiative helping newly arrived families navigate life in Southend. Over the years, we’ve grown into a registered charity with hubs in Southend, Grays, and a dedicated Ukrainian Support Hub in Basildon, offering a wide range of services to people from 73 nationalities; that’s 38% of the world’s countries.

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Our Ukrainian Support Hubs in Basildon and Grays provide language classes, wellbeing sessions, social activities, and practical help to those displaced by the war. These safe spaces help families rebuild their lives and integrate into their new communities.​

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Our Journey

• 2014 – Informal support group starts in Southend.

• 2017 – First ESOL classes launched.

• 2019 – Hub opens in Southend town centre.

• 2022 – Grays hub launches; expansion of cultural and health programmes.

• 2023 – 171 volunteers, 19 weekly ESOL classes, expanded community events.

• 2024 – Launch of Basildon Ukrainian Support Hub.