On the 9th May 2025, our refugee and asylum-seeker social activity group came together at Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses for a delicious meal followed by a powerful session designed not only to reflect on past experiences but to shape a shared vision for the future.
A special thanks goes to the wonderful Lucy and Diva for their warm welcome and hospitality at the Greenhouses, and for serving such a delicious and nutritious lunch for all to enjoy.
After lunch, through a creative exercise – know affectionately as the ‘Communitree’ – participants explored their values, activities, and the impact these sessions have had on their lives. Beyond understanding the impact of the group, this piece of work will also inform the planning and budgeting of future outings and activities – meaning the ‘Communitree’ will have a long future of inspiring and influencing the groups offered to WCC service users.
Roots – Group Values
First, participants identified the strong values that rooted the group:
Trust, safety, acceptance, support, a sense of belonging, and open communication were among the most frequently shared.
The group spoke of staff being accommodating, making them feel comfortable and at home. There was a strong emphasis on mental health, connection, accessibility, and sanctuary—highlighting how the group creates a space of healing and non-judgement.
Trunk – Activities
Next, the group members remembered and reflected activities of the past, and also thought about other activities they would like do more of, or try for the first time. Over 35 different activities were spoken about. The group expressed a preference for creative, social, and wellbeing-focused activities that promote connection, personal growth, and community identity. The most desired activities emphasize opportunities to be outdoors, engage in arts and culture, share skills, and receive practical support.
A summary of the activities discussed were as follows:
- Creative and Cultural Engagement:
- Gardening, Photography, Painting and Art, Theatre Trips and workshops, excursions to Museums & Galleries, Arts and Crafts, Poems, Drums, and Storytelling.
- These activities reflect a strong desire for self-expression, cultural exploration, and creative learning.
- Social Connection and Group Identity:
- Beach Trip, Cookery, Dancing, time together chatting, Skill Sharing, Creating WCC group merchandise (e.g. making a group logo and getting clothing printed), Dancing and Photography.
- These indicate a need for fun, bonding, and shared identity within the group.
- Personal Wellbeing and Development:
- Yoga, Meditation, physical activity like gym/fitness, Learn English.
- Focuses on mental and physical health, and personal improvement.
- Practical and Legal Support:
- Advice and Casework, CV and Career Support, Legal Aid and Solicitor.
- These are essential for stability, integration, and empowerment, and would stretch the remit of the social activity group into new and important territory.
- Recreational and Nature-Based Activities:
- Including visits to the Zoo, Boat trips, Fishing, Flower Arranging and Sports.
- Suggests a strong value placed on relaxation, being in nature, and hands-on activities.
Leaves – Impact
The emotional and social impact of the group was striking.
Participants described how it brought:
Happiness, confidence, self-esteem, hope, love, understanding, and social connection.
Phrases such as “home free,” “not judged,” and “giving life” speak to how transformative this space has become. Members also mentioned opportunity, teamwork, and even co-facilitation, showing a growing sense of ownership and leadership within the group.
Next Steps
- The Communitree has been hung in pride of place in the WCC waiting area and there it will remain. It can be added to and updated – and will hopefully keep inspiring us for a long time.
- A summary of the findings will be sent to the group members along with a statement of gratitude for their participation and involvement – and with a pledge that WCC will work to increase the opportunities for co-design, co-production and collaboration with group members.
- Having this feedback from the members of the group will crucially inform what activities we plan, where and how we apply for funds and who we seek to work in partnership with when it comes to group activities.
This session confirmed what we’ve long believed: the group is not just an activity programme—it’s a lifeline. It brings healing, empowers individuals, and builds a thriving, inclusive community.
