MONEY is being raised to save a "safe space" for local refugees and asylum seekers.

Reading Refugee Support Group (RRSG) are crowdfunding in order to keep their drop-in centre, which allows refugees across Berkshire to come together, socialise and make friends over a cup of coffee.

They are also able to learn, seek advice, be creative, or just feel safe in a place where they will be made welcome.

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It costs organisers around £20,000 a year to run the service.

CEO of RRSG, Nick Harborne, explained that funding for the drop in centre ran out last year, and that Covid-19 has halted fundraising efforts.

He said: "We were very fortunate that we had four years of grant funding for this, which ran out in July last year (2019).

"Since then - because we are identified as being so important - we have taken it on as ongoing project, funding ourselves through fundraising.

"Covid-19 has meant fundraising for all charities is difficult - we have had to cancel many of our fundraising events and the competition for grants is increasing.

"So we are asking for your support - I would love if we could get two years' funding for this project."

As of today (October 26), £9,000 of the £40,000 target has been raised.

RRSG caseworkers are available to give free confidential legal advice and practical support to refugees, with a team of volunteers helping to run English classes.

They also support CB writing and help people to find work.

The service also provides computers and internet access so people can contact their loved ones, who are often still trapped in danger or living in refugee camps hundreds of miles away, as well as running regular events and trips.

The charity has been running for 25 years, and believe that refugees needs a safe space and support now more than ever.

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The crowdfunding page reads: "They've [refugees] fled war, violence, and persecution that we cannot imagine.

"Some have been tortured. Many have been victims of human trafficking and modern slavery.

"Now rising racism, unprecedented economic hardship, and COVID-19 are making life harder than ever for refugees.

"This is why we’ve launched a crowdfunder to bring back our Drop In Centre and provide a place to meet, socialise, receive practical help and support, and be safe."

To view and donate to the appeal, click here.