World Refugee Day

Every year on June 20, World Refugee Day, the world honours the strength and courage of people forced to flee their home countries to escape conflict or persecution. 

This year we marked the occasion with a football tournament at The Arsenal Hub, where we welcomed 45 refugees to take part. 

Many of the participants came from our partnerships with Freedom from Torture and the Helen Bamber Foundation. These organisations work with survivors of torture from around the world, most of whom are seeking asylum and refuge in the UK. These individuals often face not only the physical and emotional consequences of torture but also the emotional, social and practical challenges of leaving their homes, families and livelihoods behind. 

The partnership between Arsenal in the Community and Freedom from Torture began in 2011 with English classes and expanded to include a football group the following year to support adults who have been victims of torture. The programme was developed further this year by joining with local charity, the Helen Bamber Foundation. Now, two weekly sessions take place at The Arsenal Hub, providing a safe space and a connection to the club and our staff.

We also deliver a weekly session with Union Chapel that supports asylum seekers who are placed in local temporary accommodation.

This year, for our annual tournament, we also welcomed participants the British Red Cross, with whom we also have a strong relationship. 

During the tournament attendees wrote down their thoughts on what home means to them. This is an emotive subject for many, given their experiences. Since becoming involved with us, we have always strived to foster a sense of belonging through the power of football.

One participant said, “It’s a great occasion, and it’s brilliant to see Arsenal doing their best to support us. I’ve met so many amazing people, and playing at The Hub in this tournament has been so much fun.”

For more information, you can read our Tackling Trauma report below.