RAMA

RAMA (Refugee, Asylum & Migrant Action) is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation based in Colchester, Essex. It provides practical, non-judgemental support to refugees, asylum seekers and people with no recourse to public funds, helping them navigate arrival in a new town, overcome barriers to essential services and reduce destitution and homelessness. Working with local agencies and community organisations, RAMA also advocates for people who may be overlooked by statutory services.

Its services include personalised casework and asylum-system advocacy, regulated Level 2 immigration advice for Home Office applications, and support with complex matters such as domestic abuse routes and human rights cases. RAMA helps clients register with a GP, access free prescriptions and apply for benefits including Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment and Housing Benefit. It provides mental health support through the Pamoja Project and therapeutic activities, alongside wellbeing and community activities. For people facing severe hardship, practical assistance can include food, clothing, phones, SIM cards, digital access, furniture, bicycles and emergency funds.