She fled Sudan due to the ongoing conflict and persecution of the Zaghawa people, a minority ethnic group. Ali’s family was forced to flee their home in the town of El Geneina, where they had lived for generations.

A New Life in a New Country

After fleeing Sudan, Ali and her family were forced to navigate a complex and often treacherous journey to reach safety. They traveled through the Sahara Desert, facing numerous challenges and dangers along the way. The harsh conditions and lack of resources made it difficult for them to survive, and many people lost their lives during this perilous journey.

The Road to Resettlement

Once they reached the border of Chad, Ali and her family were met with a mix of emotions. They were relieved to have finally reached safety, but also anxious about their uncertain future. The process of resettlement was long and arduous, involving multiple interviews, medical checks, and background investigations. Ali and her family had to provide extensive documentation and proof of their identity, as well as demonstrate their eligibility for resettlement.

The Challenges of Adapting to a New Country

Ali and her family faced numerous challenges as they adapted to life in a new country. They had to learn a new language, navigate unfamiliar customs and laws, and adjust to a completely different way of life. The cultural shock was overwhelming, and Ali struggled to find her place in the community. She felt like an outsider, and struggled to connect with others.

Finding a New Sense of Belonging

Despite the challenges, Ali was determined to build a new life for herself and her family. She began to learn English, joined a local community group, and started volunteering at a local charity.

ACH provides a range of services including:

• Accommodation and housing support
• Education and training
• Employment and job search
• Health and wellbeing
• Advocacy and support for refugees and migrants

The Mission of ACH

At the heart of ACH’s mission is the belief that refugees and migrants have the potential to make a positive impact on their communities. ACH’s vision is to empower individuals to take control of their lives, build resilience, and achieve their goals. This is achieved through a range of services that cater to the diverse needs of refugees and migrants.

Services for Refugees and Migrants

The Impact of ACH

ACH’s services have a profound impact on the lives of refugees and migrants in the UK. By providing a range of support services, ACH helps individuals to:

Success Stories

ACH has helped numerous individuals to achieve their goals and improve their lives. Some success stories include:

Ali’s love for fitness has also led him to pursue a career in personal training.

“I’m excited to be able to help others achieve their fitness goals.”

Ali’s Fitness Journey

Ali’s transformation from a non-runner to a fitness enthusiast is nothing short of remarkable. Just a year ago, he was struggling to walk up a flight of stairs without getting winded. However, after discovering the benefits of exercise, he made a conscious decision to turn his life around.

The Turning Point

Ali’s journey began when he started running. He began with short distances and gradually increased his endurance. As he progressed, he found that running helped him clear his mind and reduce stress. He also noticed improvements in his overall health, including better sleep and increased energy levels.

Benefits of Running

Gym Sessions

In addition to running, Ali also incorporates gym sessions into his routine. He believes that a combination of cardio and strength training is essential for overall fitness. Ali’s favorite gym exercises include squats, deadlifts, and bench press.

Benefits of Gym Sessions

Boxing and Personal Training

Ali’s passion for boxing has led him to take up the sport as a hobby. He now boxes regularly in Bilston, which has helped him improve his hand-eye coordination and overall fitness.

The Journey Begins

Ali’s first step was to research and gather information about ACH. He looked up their website, social media, and online reviews to get a sense of what they offered and what other people had to say about their experience with the agency.

He also mentioned that he enjoys the sense of community that comes with living in a shared accommodation. Ali also mentioned that he has been struggling with his mental health, and that the support he receives from ACH is invaluable. He shared that he has been able to manage his anxiety and depression with the support of his peers and the staff at ACH.

The Impact of ACH’s Supported Accommodation

ACH’s Support for Mental Health

The charity’s focus on mental health support is a key aspect of its work. ACH provides a range of services to help individuals manage their mental health, including counseling, therapy, and peer support groups. These services are designed to be tailored to the individual’s needs, taking into account their unique circumstances and experiences. The charity’s approach to mental health support is holistic, recognizing that mental health is closely linked to physical health and overall well-being. ACH’s services are delivered by trained professionals who have experience working with individuals with mental health issues.

“I would stay alone in the day and I started the gym it really makes me relaxed. People introduced me, it is really good, you make friends.”