Simple acts of kindness can have a huge impact on the communities we live in.
For Refugee Week, we’re thinking of the simple acts that can help people seeking sanctuary to feel safe and make new connections in our communities.
A small act of kindness might be sharing a cup of tea, a conversation, or a helping hand. Each action can give back in meaningful ways as people rebuild successful, independent lives in East Sussex.
Refugee Week brings together communities. It reminds us that welcoming those in need – whether fleeing war, persecution, or hardship – doesn’t just change their lives, it enriches ours.
This year the event is being held from 16 to 22 June with the theme ‘Community as a Superpower’.
What is refugee week?
Established in 1998, the annual event takes place around World Refugee Day (20 June) and celebrates the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary in our community.
Everyone can take part, from individuals to schools, libraries, arts venues, faith groups, local councils, football clubs, and businesses.
No gesture is too small. Each simple act, from a conversation to a community meal, shows how shared kindness can spark lasting change.
Last year, more than 15,000 international events and activities were held for the event, with more than 1.6 million people taking part around the globe.
Support is on hand
East Sussex has a proud tradition of welcoming people from diverse backgrounds.
While refugees represent a small part of the population, it’s vital their needs are recognised and supported.
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, especially with language barriers and unfamiliar systems. East Sussex County Council has a key role in helping people adapt and thrive by providing services and support that recognises people’s needs and experiences and values what they bring to our county.
People moving to the UK bring diverse experiences, talents, and perspectives that enrich our local economy and community life. Working with colleges, employers, and local partners, the council’s services support individuals to develop the skills they need to settle, thrive, and share their strengths with their new communities.
By supporting migrants to find independence, dignity, and purpose, we build stronger, more compassionate communities. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply being kind, we all have the power to be part of that change.
‘My first experience of feeling safe in the UK was in East Sussex’
Eva, second from left, and the rest of the Migrant Support Team at East Sussex County Council
Eva Abdulla is a manager with East Sussex County Council’s Migrant Support Team. Her family was forced to flee Sudan in 1989.
The 10-year-old Eva arrived in the UK with her family and initially stayed in Brighton for two years. It was here the family was able to live without fear. While the culture was different, her family was able to rebuild their lives.
Eva says: “I was oblivious to the dangers around me, but I knew that returning to our luxurious house in Sudan was no longer an option. We left with the bare minimum, abandoning our belongings and assets, and never looking back.
“My first experience of feeling safe in the UK was in East Sussex.”
Today, the UK is her home. Eva has spent the past 20 years supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Her goal is to ensure migrants have the tools necessary to navigate their new lives in the UK.
“I am incredibly fortunate to work within a team where my ultimate aim is to help other refugees receive the support they need to progress and enrich our communities with their skills,” she says.
Get involved
Small actions make a big difference and, as part of Refugee Week, we’re asking you carry out ‘simple acts’ of kindness. It could be sharing a meal or meeting your neighbours. Simple acts are everyday things we can all do to stand with refugees and make new connections in our communities.
You can find out more about simple acts on the Refugee Week website (and check out their super cute Moomin artwork too – what’s not to love?!)
Events
As well as simple acts, you can get involved by attending one of the many events happening across East Sussex.
- Hastings Museum & Art Gallery is working with The Refugee Buddy Project to mark Refugee Week 2025 with their Hastings & Bexhill programme. Free, donation or pay-what-you-can events are taking place across Hastings and Bexhill from 16 to 22 June. Learn more about the events and the organisation on the Refugee Buddy Project website and their Facebook page.
- Enjoy hand-crafted superhero capes, sculpture and soundscapes as part of the De La Warr Pavilion’s Stitch for Change exhibition.
- Voluntary action group 3VA has collated a list of events being held across the county, including celebrations of Ukrainian culture in Lewes and Bexhill.
- Why not visit your local community centre to find out what events you can get involved with there? Together, let’s remember that community really is a superpower.
