Safe Transitions: Community Guidance for Refugees and Migrants in Greater Manchester

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is commissioning a project to support newly granted refugees and other migrant communities with accessible information and guidance about living in the UK. The project addresses a critical gap: over 8,500 people currently live in asylum support accommodation across Greater Manchester, and evidence shows they face disproportionately high rates of homelessness and rough sleeping due to limited knowledge of UK systems, fragmented support during transitions, and barriers to accessing housing, welfare and local services. The service will deliver three key components: (1) Accessible Guidance Resources - developing multilingual materials in multiple formats covering rights, entitlements, healthcare, housing, public services and everyday life; (2) Information Briefings and Early Support - providing regular sessions within asylum accommodation and community settings to improve preparedness and service engagement; and (3) System Engagement and Partnership Development - working collaboratively with local authorities, statutory agencies, VCFSE organisations and partners to promote resources and strengthen support pathways. The project aims to prevent homelessness, reduce pressure on public services, promote independence and social inclusion, and ensure refugees and forced migrants have consistent access to reliable information. Delivery must be trauma-informed, culturally competent, person-centred and informed by lived experience. Contract Value: £307,691.66 | Duration: 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2029 (2.5 years)