Diversity Inside Us was established as a volunteering community group in February 2020 in Stockton-on-Tees, just before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. As the pandemic caused widespread lockdowns, we quickly adapted by organising online meetings and dance sessions for both adults and children. The pandemic also led to increased isolation within society, particularly affecting asylum seekers and refugees who faced significant language barriers. This resulted in a high demand for interpreting and translating services in various languages, including Arabic, Albanian, Somali, and Spanish, to and from English. Our dedicated volunteers played a crucial role in reducing anxiety, stress, and depression by providing translation and interpretation support for interactions with GPs, educational institutions, hospitals, solicitors, and banks. Additionally, they made doorstep visits to deliver donations of clothing and furniture. In partnership with Catalyst and Stockton Borough Council, our volunteers created video advertisements in Albanian, Somali, and Arabic to promote walk-in centers and Covid-19 vaccinations. We also assist with referrals to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). In February 2022, our group was officially registered as a charity. We remain committed to supporting our community’s physical wellbeing and social welfare.
Meet the Team
