Supporting Communities Through Heritage Awareness: The BRARC Approach

The integration of refugees and asylum seekers often emphasises how incumbent communities can adapt to welcome newcomers. At Beyond Resettlement and Assimilation Resource Centre CIC (BRARC), however, we believe in a more balanced approach that prioritises equipping service users—refugees and asylum seekers—with the tools and knowledge to understand and respect the cultural, historical, and societal values of the communities they are joining. By doing so, we aim to foster a smoother, more harmonious integration process that benefits all parties involved.

Understanding Local Heritage: A Foundation for Integration

For newcomers to feel a sense of belonging, it is essential they understand the heritage and cultural context of their new homes. This includes recognising local traditions, historical milestones, and the shared values that underpin the social fabric of the area. At BRARC, we facilitate this understanding through tailored programmes that focus on:

• Cultural Orientation: Service users learn about the customs, social norms, and unspoken etiquettes that define daily life in the UK.

• Heritage Workshops: These sessions provide insights into the historical evolution of the local area, its landmarks, and its contributions to the broader national story.

• Community Engagement Activities: Refugees are introduced to local festivals, civic ceremonies, and community organisations to help them connect with their surroundings.

  
  

By empowering service users to embrace and respect local heritage, we not only help them integrate but also reduce potential misunderstandings or cultural clashes.

Preserving Local Identity While Welcoming Newcomers

A common concern among incumbent communities is the perceived risk of cultural erosion. BRARC addresses this directly by framing integration as an opportunity to strengthen local identity rather than dilute it.

Respect for Local Values

Our programmes ensure that service users understand the importance of the community’s values, such as respect for public spaces, engagement in local governance, and participation in civic responsibilities. For example, we provide training on:

• Recycling and environmental stewardship, highlighting their role in maintaining local parks and neighbourhoods.

• The history of trade unions or cooperative movements in industrial areas, fostering an appreciation for the social values that shaped the region.

  
  

By instilling a sense of respect for these elements, we help service users align themselves with the community’s priorities and traditions.

Revitalising Community Engagement

Rather than viewing integration as a one-sided process, BRARC positions it as a chance to bring people together around shared interests and goals. By involving service users in local initiatives, we ensure that integration becomes a collaborative effort that strengthens community bonds.

Building Skills to Support Community Needs

Service users bring unique skills and perspectives that, when directed appropriately, can address specific needs within incumbent communities. BRARC plays a key role in identifying these opportunities and matching them with local requirements.

For example:

• Refugees trained in healthcare professions can fill gaps in the NHS, particularly in underserved areas.

• Skilled tradespeople and artisans can support the restoration of historic buildings or the revitalisation of traditional industries.

  
  

By aligning the talents of service users with the needs of their new communities, BRARC creates opportunities for mutual benefit and growth.

Alleviating Community Concerns

Concerns among incumbent communities often stem from misunderstandings about how refugees will impact local resources, services, and traditions. BRARC addresses these concerns proactively by ensuring that service users are equipped to integrate without placing undue strain on their surroundings.

Practical Knowledge

Through comprehensive orientation sessions, service users are taught about:

• Navigating public transportation, reducing strain on local services.

• Understanding tenancy agreements and responsibilities, ensuring harmony in shared housing areas.

• The importance of engaging in local volunteer work as a means of giving back.

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Transparent Communication

BRARC actively involves community leaders and representatives in the integration process, fostering transparency and trust. By showing that service users are being prepared to respect and contribute to the community, we alleviate fears and demonstrate the long-term benefits of integration.

The Long-Term Benefits for Incumbent Communities

While the immediate focus of integration is on helping service users adapt, the long-term outcomes are equally significant for incumbent communities. A well-integrated population:

• Boosts Local Economies: Service users often fill essential roles in the workforce, start businesses, and stimulate local commerce.

• Enhances Cultural Bonding: Stronger, larger communities lead to enriching environments for all the people involved in them, when carried out correctly and in a managed fashion.

• Strengthens Social Cohesion: Shared initiatives and mutual respect lead to stronger, more united communities.

  
  

A Model for National Integration

BRARC’s work in the North West will serve as a pilot for how integration can work nationwide. By focusing on heritage awareness and local alignment, we offer a replicable model that prioritises the needs and concerns of incumbent communities while empowering refugees to succeed.

This approach demonstrates that integration is not a zero-sum game but a collaborative process where everyone benefits. With continued support and collaboration, we can scale this model to ensure a more harmonious and prosperous future for all.

In summary, BRARC’s commitment to cultural alignment and respect for local heritage ensures that our integration efforts benefit incumbent communities as much as our service users. By bridging gaps, addressing concerns, and fostering mutual understanding, we build stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods that reflect the best of both worlds.