Refugee Integration Service

Who is this service for?

The Refugee Integration Service (RIS) is a provision especially for individuals who, in the last 2 years, have been granted Refugee status, Leave to Remain, or Humanitarian Protection, and have a connection to Manchester.

We are funded by Manchester City Council to support all new refugees who have recently been through the asylum process, as well as existing refugees who have previously been granted leave to remain and are residing in Manchester. 

Therefore, if you have received refugee status or humanitarian protection in the last 2 years and are residing in an area covered by Manchester City council, then this service is for you.

What does this service provide?

You can get support and guidance around what steps to take now that you have been given the right to reside in the UK. We are happy to help if you need support with any of the following and much more: 

• Checking and ensuring you have the correct immigrations documents and ID card 
• Welfare benefits e.g. Universal Credits 
• Housing guidance and access to limited accommodation (subject to availability) 
• Opening Bank Accounts 
• ESOL registration 
• Writing letters on your behalf and advocacy 
• Employment support 
• Access to education and training opportunities 
• Access to health and other services 
• Ongoing immigration advice 

In the event that we cannot offer you direct support we can help with referrals and signposting to other specialist services. These services may exist within our MRSN organisation, the Greater Manchester area or national associations.  

When are our RIS advice sessions?

To meet with a RIS advisor please come to one of the drop-in sessions listed below:

• RIS Tuesdays and Thursday afternoon drop-in sessions are at 1:30 – 4:00pm – MRSN Offices.
• ‘Home Search Club’ drop-in sessions are Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at MRSN office, 141 Princess Road 1:30 – 4:00pm

Please note that the Home Search club is for people who received Refugee status in the last 2 years, and already reside in Manchester. Unfortunately, we cannot assist with relocations from other cities, but can provide signposts to other organisations.

For time-intensive support, appointments operate at the following times:

• Morning pre -arranged appointment sessions only are Tuesdays at MRSN office 9:30 – 12:30
• Morning pre-arranged appointment sessions only on Thursdays at St James Church 9:30 – 12:30

If you would like to book an appointment or enquire about more information please email your queries to our inbox RIS@mrsn.org.uk 

Who to contact about this service?

To speak with an advisor about your case please email ris@mrsn.org.uk