The Eagles Wing is a mutual support group made up of local people, asylum seekers and refugees in Bury. They welcome and befriend newcomers, helping them happily settle into the area. Meeting three times a week, they offer regular support groups, including English classes and sewing and craft workshops. They also work with partner agencies such as the Red Cross who can offer more professional advice to individuals experiencing problems, and the Citizens Advice Bureau so that their members can get expert advice on benefits, debt and immigration. They also do second-hand exchanges with books, toys, clothes or small items of furniture, and give food and shopping vouchers where possible to anyone in need. The group provides a friendly and sociable space for refugees and asylum seekers to make friends with local people and feel welcome in the area. Babies and young children are also welcome to the meetings, so parents don’t have to worry about sourcing and paying for childcare. The group is member-led and includes refugees who have experienced trauma and loss but as a result of coming to the group are now well-settled. These members speak a range of other languages are able to offer advice and friendship to newcomers, which is an incredible resource for new members as it means that there is always someone who speaks their home language, and can help them understand the English letters and phone calls that can often appear overwhelming and confusing. The Eagles Wing also celebrates events such as babies born, birthdays, and outings to which all members are invited and at no cost to them, creating an accessible and safe space for new friendships to blossom. It is always worth remembering that, if you support Forever Manchester, you support all this. The ability of local community groups and organisations to best help people in their community remains dependant on maintaining support for them. To find out more about how you can get support Forever Manchester please email us at marketing@forevermanchester.com or telephone on 0161 214 0940.
