Kent saw crossings of more than 1,100 asylum seekers in the space of just four days over Christmas. As refugees settle into their new home, the process can be extremely isolating and confusing.

Migrateful are a UK based charity that help vulnerable migrants struggling to integrate and access employment, due to language barriers. Their mission is “to empower and celebrate their chefs in their journey to employment and independence”.

Migrateful offer training for the chefs, which include English practise, qualifications, a solidarity fund and connections with the public, which have proved to be therapeutic and increase self-esteem. As well as classes for the public, which challenge stereotypes and raise awareness of issues faced by migrants. Their long-term goals include permanent employment, reduced isolation and less division in society.

Founder Jess Thomson says: ““The potential of the classes to change perceptions is powerful”.

Jess Thomson who has many years’ experience working with refugees in Ceuta, Morocco and Dunkirk launched Migrateful in July 2017; with the initial aim to get women into employment by supporting them to share their incredible cooking skills with the world. However, she soon realised how benefitable this concept could be if they offer cookery classes led by migrant chefs.

Jess says: “We offer English classes where we ask everyone to bring in a recipe from their homeland, to practise their vocabulary. They were all so excited to talk about their favourite dish”.

Since starting, Migrateful launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £126,000 in 2019. In just two weeks, they surpassed their target by over 50%. They have also recently secured a pledge from the Mayor of London for £45,000, which would provide Migrateful volunteers with a fully equipped kitchen for catering events and feeding the community initiatives.

Cooking classes are offered both online and in person and can be booked via their website. To book or donate: visit https://www.migrateful.org/about/impact/

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