What better way to round off another #VolunteersWeek than with our very own Volunteer & Training Manager! Claire’s role sits at the centre of the RMC volunteer programme. She is the first point of contact for every new volunteer, the person who welcomes them in and guides them through their journey

Since RMC's inception, volunteers have been vital in providing support to the community and making a real impact. Our latest article explores the differences between how volunteering was seen in the past and what it represents today, both within RMC and globally.

Highlights from our Eid party at Wolverhampton YMCA 🧡 The families had a wonderful time taking part in games, connecting with one another, and enjoying music and a range of fun activities. A massive thank you to all our donors for making the day so special.

When people are welcomed and supported, they can take part in community life, contribute to our local economy, and enrich our culture.

Every volunteer has their own story and reason for getting involved. For some, it’s about gaining experience, for others it’s building confidence or finding a sense of purpose. Whatever brings them here, they all make a real impact. #VolunteersWeek

Volunteers Week 2026 has arrived! We’ll be spending the week celebrating our volunteers, starting by sharing the difference they make at RMC. Thank you to everyone who gives their time to support others 🧡 #VolunteersWeek

Next week is Volunteers’ Week 2026. A time to join together across the UK to celebrate the millions of volunteers who selflessly give their time to help others. #VolunteersWeek

How is RMC tackling the housing crisis for migrants in the West Midlands? Read our latest guest piece on the Chartered Institute of Housing website:

RMC is closed today for the Bank Holiday; our centres will be open again tomorrow. We hope you enjoy a sunny bank holiday Monday!

Being welcoming doesn’t take big gestures. It is the small, everyday acts of hope that build strong communities. Try out one of these 3 simple things this weekend and make the world of difference

"Volunteering made me feel useful and proud. It showed me that I can help others while building my own future." ✨ Ishag’s journey is a powerful reminder that hope is found in participation. We're proud to share his story for #MillionActsOfHope. https://f.mtr.cool/gnrwuszhaf

At RMC, we see integration as a two-way street. It’s about new neighbours bringing their skills and cultures, and the West Midlands opening its arms in return. We are proud to be part of a region that chooses kindness.

RMC is powered by dedicated people who make a real difference. For #MillionActsOfHope, we’re shining a light on two members of our team, ESOL volunteer Susan and RMC Caseworker Liew. Alongside RMC colleagues, they support thousands of people each year to find safety, stability, and a new start.

We're here for you. Our drop-in service runs Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday across our centres and is the main point of access for our support. Know someone who might need help? Share this with them and let them know!

Hope always counts, but this week, it gets counted. 🧡 We’re proud to be partners on the #MillionActsOfHope campaign from @hopenothate.org.uk  which shouts out local "hopefuls." Whether it’s a small gesture or a big commitment, your acts of kindness build the foundation of our community.

Today, Thursday 7 May, is your chance to have a say on the local services that affect everyday life, including housing, schools, social care and bin collections.

"I remember leaving the office 10 times more positive..." After months of job-hunting, Omar found the support he needed at RMC. From a restructured CV to a boost in confidence, he’s now thriving as a Business Analyst!  https://f.mtr.cool/auyipehvcr

Local elections take place this Thursday (7th May). This is your chance to determine who runs the essential services you use every day. Find out about your local candidates at https://f.mtr.cool/nznshkwuhq

Thank you to Bloxwich Active Living Centre for hosting us recently to share our work and discuss the support we can offer. It was great to meet and speak with so many people!

It has been years since the Windrush scandal broke, but for many, the impact is still felt every day. Many people were left with no proof of residency, costing people jobs, homes, and even their liberty.

Following a recent BBC investigation, the Birmingham NRPF Women's group has released a joint statement outlining how suggestions made within the report create dangerous narrative risk for survivors seeking help. Read the statement: https://f.mtr.cool/jbqkxtocoj

A huge thank you to the team at Multibank for their incredibly generous donation of essential items! These items go straight to supporting the individuals and families RMC works with, helping to provide comfort and stability. We are so grateful for your support!

We are deeply disappointed by the reporting in the BBC investigation into the alleged false domestic abuse claims made by migrants to obtain leave to remain. It presents the actions of a small minority as indicative of a wider trend and implies the existence of a large‑scale, systemic problem.

Today is the last day you can register to vote in the upcoming local elections! You have until midnight tonight to register. It only takes about 5 minutes to do it.  To register online, visit: https://f.mtr.cool/gzaphgafmt

What makes a community event great? Time to settle the debate. 🎶 Great activities OR 🍕 Amazing food (FYI, our Festival of Unity had both 🎉) Drop your answer below 👇  #Community #Walsall #FestivalOfUnity #ThisOrThat

A day full of smiles and celebration at our recent Unity Festival 🧡

Local elections are on 7 May, and we’ve put together a plain‑English guide to help you feel confident about voting. The guide covers who can vote, how to register, and what to take on the day. https://f.mtr.cool/rwpwzdvnvn

Our local communities are at the heart of what we do. At our recent Sip and Stories event, people came together to share reflections on community, inspiration, life lessons, and the places that matter to them.

As the financial year ticks over, we can look back and celebrate our last annual report! All while our team starts the hard work of collating all our impact over the last 12 months for our next one. Take a read at: https://f.mtr.cool/pmhxdbemvd

Volunteering at RMC is a great way to develop yourself while creating a positive impact on your community.  We have a variety of roles to suit your interests. Each role comes with a team around you to support you through your journey with us.  If you're interested, get in touch!

If you're a migrant living in the West Midlands, you might be eligible to vote in the local elections on 7 May, but the rules can be confusing. Migrant Democracy Project has created a free, simple tool to check your eligibility in minutes. 👉 migrantdemos.org.uk/canivote

The West Midlands is home to people from all over the world, and that's something worth celebrating. At RMC, we believe that communities are strongest when everyone can thrive. If you want to support our work, visit https://f.mtr.cool/otvqxlffol #WestMidlands #Community #Diversity #RMC

Our Move-On Birmingham Report shows what happens when newly granted refugees are given the right support at the right time. The move-on period is one of the most critical moments in a person's journey. Our report sets out what works, and what still needs to change.

Following a fantastic Sips and Stories event recently, we're delighted to showcase some of the heartfelt voices the event brought together in one place.  Take a look at https://f.mtr.cool/xcutcoiofr

This is what we do. Every day across the West Midlands. From immigration advice to housing support, from English classes to employment, the Refugee and Migrant Centre is here, free of charge, for anyone who needs us. Plus, providing events, training, and more for the community.

Local elections are coming on 7 May 2026, and your vote matters. These elections decide who represents your local community on your council. Not sure if you can vote? We've put together a guide to help: rmcentre.org.uk/news/local-elections-2026-your-guide/

The Windrush Compensation Scheme provides financial redress for those who have suffered losses because they could not prove their right to live in the UK. It aims to compensate for impacts such as loss of earnings, destitution, refusal of access to medical services, and refusal of public funds.

What happens when we stop passing each other on the street and actually start talking? This moving reflection was written by Ahmad after our recent story exchange in Walsall. Two strangers from different backgrounds coming together. Building an understanding, listening to each other.

A few more highlights from the inspiring day coming together for International Women's Day this year at @unibirmingham.bsky.social  Thank you again to everyone who was involved!

Local elections across the West Midlands will determine who runs the essential services we use every day. Our new guide breaks down who can vote, why your voice matters, and the voter ID rules you need to know before heading to the polls.

Eid Mubarak! 🌙 From everyone at the Refugee and Migrant Centre, we're wishing all who are celebrating a joyful and peaceful Eid al-Fitr. #EidMubarak #EidAlFitr2026 #WestMidlands

How the RMC drop-in works: 1. Arrive and take a ticket 2. You'll be triaged by one of our team to understand what support you need and provide assistance, or book an appointment 3. If needed, your full appointment will be booked either that afternoon or for another day.

Community Story Exchange!  Last week our Resettlement team were in Walsall running a story exchange. Bringing together a range of our Resettlement beneficiaries with the local OHPP carers group, sharing stories and getting to know each other.

Ready to increase your social impact? 🌍 Partner with RMC to deliver real value to the community, access expert training for your team, and get involved through volunteering or resource sharing. Let’s build communities together. 🤝 Details here: rmcentre.org.uk/corporate-partnerships/

If you or someone you know could be eligible or has applied for compensation and not been successful, please get in touch. Call us on 0800 0663 444.

We deliver a range of specialised projects aimed at meeting the ever-changing needs of the community. These are delivered alongside our drop-in service to provide additional support. Take a look at a few of our current projects and find our full list at https://f.mtr.cool/ifmlgmcwgt

The proposed earned settlement system will mean that individuals will need to ‘demonstrate sustained commitment through work, community involvement, or other meaningful contributions before being granted permanent status’.

Make a difference this Ramadan and host an Iftar with RMC.  Bring together your community whilst helping change lives. Let us know if you'd like one of our free fundraising packs! You can also register to get your pack at https://f.mtr.cool/tbrjgzrpjx

Today we're at @unibirmingham.bsky.social, and New Street station as part of #IWD2026 celebrations We're proud to be part of events like this alongside parters like In her Shoes, @avfc-official.bsky.social,  @storiesofhome.bsky.social , New Hope Global, Refugee Alliance & Community Connections

Funding to support women arriving in the UK as resettled refugees has wide-ranging benefits and helps to build a more connected, healthy, and inclusive community. Read our report on our 12-month support project here: https://f.mtr.cool/klbheigzsh