New Scots Refugee Integration Delivery Project: funded projects analysis

Key findings and conclusion

The feedback from the projects funded through the New Scots Refugee Integration Delivery Project (NSRIDP) has suggested that, in spite of numerous setbacks, there have been some significantly positive strides made towards the integration of refugees and people seeking asylum in Scotland. This extensive analysis of the funded projects highlights the meaningful achievements and persistent challenges encountered, providing crucial insights and lessons for future initiatives.

Key achievements

1. Enhanced integration and belonging: Analysis suggests that projects funded through the NSRIDP have significantly improved sense of belonging and integration among the refugees and people seeking asylum they supported. Initiatives focused on language acquisition, cultural exchange, and community building have reported enabling participants to feel more connected and supported within their local communities. This, in turn, has facilitated smoother integration and empowered individuals to actively contribute to their communities.

2. Skill Development and Empowerment: Many projects reported successfully providing refugees with opportunities to acquire new skills, ranging from language proficiency and digital literacy to vocational training and creative arts. Organisations reported that these skills enhanced participants' employability, confidence, and overall well-being.

3. Innovative and Sustainable Models: The use of innovative approaches, including co-design and peer support, was a hallmark of many successful projects. These methods ensured that services were tailored to the actual needs of refugees, resulting in reported higher engagement and satisfaction. Several projects have created sustainable practices that can be replicated and adapted for future initiatives, promising a lasting impact on refugee integration efforts in Scotland.

4. Increased Access to Services: Project reports highlighted that many refugees gained better access to essential services such as healthcare, housing, and legal support. Many projects reported increased participants' awareness and utilisation of these services, contributing to improved living conditions and stability for many individuals and families.

5. Strong Community Involvement and Partnerships: The success of the NSRIDP projects is largely attributed to the strong community involvement and the formation of robust partnerships with other organisations and local authorities. Collaborative efforts expanded the reach and effectiveness of the projects, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for refugees.

Key challenges

1. Resource constraints: Many projects reported facing significant challenges due to resource constraints, including funding delays and increased service demands. These constraints often hindered the scalability and sustainability of the projects, limiting their potential impact. Addressing these funding and resource issues is crucial for the continued success of similar initiatives.

2. Bureaucratic hurdles: Navigating bureaucratic complexities and managing the administrative burden of monitoring requirements were common challenges reported by many organisations. Simplifying these processes and providing more streamlined support could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of future projects.

3. Digital barriers: The reliance on digital communication posed challenges for participants with limited access to technology. Ensuring digital inclusion and providing necessary support for technology access remain critical areas for improvement.

4. Social insecurity: Organisations reported that insecure housing and social instability among refugees often made consistent engagement difficult. Addressing these fundamental issues is essential to support the long-term integration and well-being of refugees.

Other Insights

1. COVID-19 and weather disruptions: The pandemic posed a significant challenge, impacting service delivery and attendance. Organisations struggled to transition from face-to-face services to remote support, which affected community engagement and participant comfort. Additionally, adverse weather conditions further complicated outdoor activities, highlighting the need for adaptable service delivery models.

2. Unexpected positive outcomes: Several projects reported unexpected positive outcomes, such as increased confidence among participants and the development of new community leaders. For example, the Kurdish Women Community Group noted that girls involved in their project became more confident and active, even joining sports clubs and school competitions. This demonstrates the potential for these projects to foster leadership and agency among participants, contributing to long-term community development.

3. Feedback from projects and participants: Feedback highlighted the positive experience of running these projects and the significant impact on participants. Many organisations expressed gratitude for the funding and the opportunity to make a substantial difference in their communities. Participants often noted increased confidence, social connections, and a sense of belonging as key benefits of their involvement.

4. Spreading good practice: Many projects aimed to spread good practice by expanding successful integration activities to new areas or communities. This approach has led to enhanced services and better outcomes for participants. Examples include projects that have scaled up successful local initiatives to reach a broader audience, thereby amplifying their impact.

5. Lasting impact: The lasting impact of these projects is evident in the continued support and integration efforts beyond the funding period. Many organisations plan to sustain their activities, leveraging the skills and knowledge gained during the project to continue benefiting refugee communities. This is reflected in the development of new partnerships, ongoing community engagement, and the replication of successful models.

6. Partnership working: Effective partnership working was a critical factor in the success of many projects. Collaborations between local authorities, third-sector organisations, and refugee-led groups enhanced resource sharing, knowledge exchange, and service delivery. This collective approach ensured a more comprehensive support system for refugees and asylum seekers, addressing diverse needs more effectively.

7. Innovation: The projects funded under NSRIDP showcased remarkable innovation in addressing refugee integration challenges. From digital inclusion initiatives to creative arts programs, these projects employed novel approaches to engage participants and meet their needs. Innovation was not only a response to existing challenges but also a proactive measure to anticipate and address future needs.

8. Refugee involvement and participation: The active involvement and participation of refugees in project planning and implementation were reportedly pivotal to the success of some of the projects. This participatory approach ensured that the projects were responsive to the actual needs and preferences of refugees, enhancing their relevance and impact. Refugee involvement was also reported to foster a sense of ownership and empowerment among participants, contributing to their overall integration experience.

9. Reaching target groups: The projects effectively reached diverse target groups, including women, children, and youth, each with tailored support and activities. For instance, specific programs were designed for young refugees to help them integrate into the education system, while women-only initiatives provided safe spaces for addressing gender-specific challenges.

Conclusion

The New Scots Refugee Integration Delivery Project has shown that innovative approaches, strong community involvement, and collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful and lasting impacts on refugee integration. Despite the challenges faced, the projects funded through this initiative have laid a solid foundation for ongoing support and integration of refugees in Scotland. The sustainable models and practices developed offer valuable frameworks for future initiatives.

This analysis underscores the importance of continued support, adequate funding, and streamlined processes to address the evolving needs of refugee communities. By building on the successes and learning from the challenges of the NSRIDP, future projects can further enhance the integration and empowerment of refugees, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society in Scotland. The resilience and adaptability shown by the projects during the pandemic and other challenges highlight the potential for continued progress in this critical area of social integration.

The lessons learned from this initiative can inform policy development, funding allocation, and program design to ensure that Scotland continues to be a welcoming place for refugees and asylum seekers. By prioritising their needs and leveraging the collective strengths of communities and organisations, Scotland can further its commitment to creating a just and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.