Liverpool has always been a city with a big heart, a place shaped by people arriving from all over the world and contributing to its culture, community life, and identity. From students and workers to families seeking safety and a fresh start, generations of newcomers have helped build the vibrant, diverse city we are proud of today.
Over the past year, through the Our Liverpool Refugee and Migration Plan 2024-2027, the Council and its partners have continued this tradition of welcome. Our year one progress report shows how, working together, we have supported people seeking sanctuary to rebuild their lives, feel safe and become part of our communities. Covering October 2024 to September 2025, the report brings together the stories, achievements, and shared efforts that have made this year such an important foundation for the future. It highlights what has been achieved collectively; Liverpool City Council, the voluntary and community sector, and the many residents who offer friendship and solidarity every day.
Supporting people from day one
For many people arriving in Liverpool, the first few weeks can be overwhelming. Understanding how to access health care, housing, education and local services is essential. This year, we improved access to clear, practical information through new online resources and QR coded materials in accommodation sites and community venues. A monthly multi-agency partnership group also helped organisations respond quickly to emerging needs, ensuring that support reaches people when they need it most.
Liverpool also continued to meet its resettlement commitments, welcoming families through Ukrainian, Afghan and other humanitarian routes. Each arrival represents a new beginning for an individual, and also a stronger, more connected city for us all.
Health, wellbeing and belonging
Good health is the foundation for building a new life. Throughout the year, community partners delivered wellbeing activities, mental health support and physical activity programmes that helped people feel more confident and connected.
Working with NHS and Public Health colleagues, we supported residents to register with GPs, understand how services work and access specialist care where needed. Safe spaces created by local organisations allowed people to build friendships, share experiences and support one another.
Creating pathways into work and learning
Being able to learn English, gain skills and find work is key to long-term independence. In 2024 to 2025, Liverpool strengthened these pathways through the creation of a new ESOL Hub and projects such as ESOL into Work.
The DWP Refugee Employment Hub supported newly recognised refugees with CV writing, training and job search support, while volunteering opportunities helped people gain confidence and local experience.
These initiatives are helping residents move from uncertainty to stability, and from isolation to opportunity.
Supporting people with complex needs
Some residents face additional challenges because of their immigration status, health needs or lack of access to public funds. This year, a new NRPF Pathway Team was established to improve coordination between social care, housing, legal services and community partners.
The team’s work has helped ensure that vulnerable people are not left without support, and that cases are handled with care, consistency and dignity.
Helping children and young people thrive
For children and young people arriving in Liverpool, education plays a vital role in feeling safe and hopeful about the future. Schools across the city have been supported to welcome pupils from asylum and resettlement backgrounds, while specialist teams and partners like the British Red Cross worked with young people who arrived alone.
Participation groups gave young people a voice in shaping services, and new resources are being developed to promote inclusion and tackle bullying.
Strong communities, standing together
This year brought moments of challenge, including national tensions and local protests linked to asylum accommodation. In response, Liverpool acted quickly to promote calm, factual information and community unity.
A citywide myth busting campaign reached more than 100,000 people and received strong support from residents and partners. At the same time, community groups continued to bring people together through sport, arts, culture and volunteering.
These everyday connections are what make neighbourhoods stronger and more resilient.
Fair access to safe housing
Safe housing is essential for rebuilding lives. In 2024 to 2025, Liverpool strengthened homelessness prevention through a new Refugee Housing Team and earlier support for people at risk of losing their accommodation.
Council officers also inspected asylum properties across the city, identifying hazards and working with providers to improve standards. This work ensures that everyone, regardless of background, has access to safe and decent living conditions.
Looking ahead
The first year of the Our Liverpool Plan has been about building strong foundations. We have created new teams, improved coordination and strengthened partnerships across the city.
Looking ahead to 2025 to 2026, our priorities include expanding homelessness prevention, improving access to legal advice, strengthening English language provision, supporting schools and deepening community cohesion work.
Most importantly, we will continue to centre the voices and experiences of refugees and migrants in everything we do. Because when people feel welcome, supported and valued, our whole city benefits.
Find out what we achieved in the Our Liverpool Plan Progress Report 2024-2025, showcasing how Liverpool City Council, community partners, and residents help make Liverpool a welcoming city for everyone.
