Improved wellbeing of resettled refugees report

Our latest impact report, covering January to December 2025, highlights how RMC’s Women’s Groups in Birmingham have become a vital lifeline for resettled refugees.

Published on: March 6, 2026

Written by: Jasmyn Dixon, RMC’s Impact and Evaluation Manager

Building Belonging: The Lifeline of RMC’s Women’s Groups

For many women arriving in the UK as resettled refugees, the journey is marked by more than just physical travel. It often involves navigating deep isolation, trauma, and the daunting challenge of starting over in a completely unfamiliar environment.

A Year of Impact at a Glance

Over the past 12 months, the project has provided direct support to 46 women, primarily from Afghan resettlement schemes. Through 36 group sessions, the program focused on three key areas:

Educational Sessions: Targeted workshops on mental health awareness, accessing NHS services, reproductive health, and healthy eating.
Wellbeing Activities: Creative outlets including arts and crafts, yoga, dance, music, and storytelling to help process trauma and reduce stress.
Outside Engagement: Strengthening community ties through visits from local organisations and events like Women’s Health Day at the University of Birmingham

More Than Just a Meeting

The true impact of these sessions is seen in the newfound confidence of the participants. By providing a safe, inclusive space with interpreters, RMC has helped women overcome cultural stigmas surrounding mental health and menopause while building lasting friendships.

As one attendee shared: “First when we were here… we thought we were the only refugees here, then we found more the same as us, which is very supportive of our mental health”.

Looking Ahead: The Power of Dedicated Funding

While the Birmingham project has seen incredible success, the report also highlights the ongoing need for dedicated funding in our Wolverhampton and Walsall offices. Consistent support allows us to move beyond irregular sessions and provide the deep, one-to-one follow-up that truly transforms lives.

Investing in these groups isn’t just about individual wellbeing; it is about building the foundation for a more connected and inclusive community for everyone.