Ahmed's story: Taking the first step 

Goal: Think about practical ways to support migrants who face barriers to participation. 

Time required: 15–20 minutes

Step 1: Read the scenario

Ahmed recently moved to the UK from Sudan. Back home, he worked as a mechanic and was active in his community, often helping neighbours and volunteering. But since arriving, he’s struggled to find his footing.

Ahmed now works long shifts in a warehouse, leaving him with little free time or energy. He wants to improve his English, but the free classes in his area are during his working hours. This makes it hard to meet people or learn about what’s happening in the community.

He often sees posters about events and services, but they’re in English and hard to understand. He’s unsure where to get reliable information or who to ask for help. Although he misses being part of a community, he feels nervous about joining anything new—worried he won’t understand what’s going on or that he won’t be welcome.

Ahmed walks past the local community centre every day, curious but hesitant. Something inside him wants to connect—but right now, he just doesn’t know how to take that first step.

Step 2: Identify two key barriers

Write down two of the main challenges Ahmed is facing:

Step 3: Suggest one solution for each barrier

Now, come up with a simple, realistic way a migrant support organisation could help with each barrier.

• Barrier 1 – support strategy:

• Barrier 2 – support strategy:

Final reflection

What is one thing you could do to make participation easier for someone like Ahmed?