On Tuesday, September 3rd, we at Caring and Sharing Rochdale came together to celebrate the life of Julie Collins, a truly remarkable woman whose dedication to serving others continues to inspire us all. Julie’s heart for humanity led her to establish Friends of Shamwari, a social event designed to support asylum seekers and refugees. Her kindness knew no limits, and her radiant spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered.

We are deeply honored to carry forward the legacy of Friends of Shamwari in Julie’s memory. Through this initiative, we ensure that her mission of love, compassion, and support lives on, continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of those most in need. As a tribute to Julie, we proudly wore orange on—her favorite color—symbolizing the warmth and generosity she shared with the world, always giving freely without expecting anything in return.

At the funeral, our CEO, Nicky Iginla, shared a moving speech, reflecting on the immense contributions Julie made to our community. In her touching tribute, the CEO recalled how Julie, ever dedicated to her cause, had approached her to ensure the continuation of Friends of Shamwari as she prepared for retirement. Julie’s wish was for the project she had spearheaded, which involved engaging the community and supporting children, to carry on—never anticipating that she might leave us so soon.

The CEO offered a solemn and heartfelt promise to continue Julie’s important work. With a deep personal commitment, she vowed to honor Julie’s memory by leading the project as long as she could, ensuring that Julie’s passion for helping others would not be forgotten. It was a poignant moment, filled with the collective recognition that a great soul had left us, but her impact would endure.

Julie’s light shines on in our hearts, and her incredible impact will continue through the ongoing work of Caring and Sharing. Her commitment to helping others remains a source of inspiration as we strive to keep her vision alive.

Financial literacy is a crucial skill for everyone, but it is especially important for refugees and asylum seekers who are adapting to a new country and financial system. Starting a new life in a different country is both exciting and challenging. One of the biggest hurdles can be managing your finances in an unfamiliar system. Understanding how to budget, save, and use credit wisely is crucial for building a secure and stable life.

Tips for Financial Literacy

Opening a Bank Account

Opening a bank account is one of the first steps to managing your money in the UK. There are various types of bank accounts, including current accounts for daily transactions and savings accounts for storing money. So, you might need to make a decision about what type to open. You’ll also need identification documents like a passport or Biometric Residence Permit and proof of address, and sometimes a letter from your place of accommodation or a support organization.

Budgeting Basics

Budgeting helps you keep track of your income and expenses, ensuring you live within your means. By learning to record all your sources of income and every expense, allocating money for essentials like rent, food, and utilities, and setting aside some for savings, and regularly checking your budget to adjust for any changes in income or expenses, budgeting is a key factor to keeping your spending in check.

Saving Money

Determine what you are saving for, such as an emergency fund or education and set savings goals. In addition to this, using a savings account to earn interest on your money is a plus.

Understanding Credit and Debt

Using credit responsibly by borrowing only what you can repay is essential to avoid debt problems. However, if you find yourself in debt, seek help immediately. Organizations like StepChange and National DebtlC ine offer free advice. Also, know the various types of credit like credit cards, personal loans, and overdrafts and ensure that you only borrow what you can afford to repay and pay your bills on time.

Accessing Financial Support

Explore the different welfare benefits and grants available to refugees and asylum seekers for additional financial assistance. You may be eligible for certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, depending on your circumstances and you can also be on the look out for local organizations and charities that offer financial assistance and grants.

Conclusion

Managing your finances wisely is key to building a stable life. By doing this, you can ensure financial stability and peace of mind. For more information and personalized advice, reach out to us Remember, there are many resources available to help you on your journey to financial literacy.

Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, and sometimes, it can feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. For many, challenges may seem insurmountable. But what if I told you that resilience—the ability to bounce back from adversity—can turn these challenges into stepping stones for a brighter future? Resilience isn’t about pretending everything is okay or avoiding difficulties; it’s about facing life’s challenges head-on.

Think of it as an inner strength that allows you to withstand the storms of life. It involves maintaining a positive outlook, finding meaning in adversity, and developing effective coping strategies. Here, we’ll delve deep into the essence of resilience, exploring its significance, practical ways to cultivate it, and how it can empower us all to rise above life’s obstacles.

Why Resilience is Essential for Everyone

Imagine facing a storm that threatens to uproot your life; resilience is the sturdy tree that bends but doesn’t break, allowing you to weather the tempest and emerge even stronger. The essential role resilience plays in our lives cannot be undermined and it empowers us to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and transformation.

Recovery from Setbacks

Resilience enables you to bounce back from failures and disappointments, turning them into valuable learning experiences. When faced with obstacles, resilient individuals find ways to adapt and continue moving forward.

Adaptability to Change

Life is inherently unpredictable, and the ability to adapt to new situations is crucial. Resilience equips you with the flexibility needed to navigate life’s twists and turns.

Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Building resilience contributes significantly to overall mental health. It fosters a sense of control and empowerment, allowing individuals to manage stress more effectively and maintain a positive outlook.

Practical Steps You Can Take to Cultivate Resilience

Building resilience is an ongoing process that involves intentional actions and mindset shifts. Here are several practical strategies to cultivate resilience in your life.

Building a Support Network

One of the most powerful ways to enhance resilience is by nurturing relationships with family, friends, and community members. Don’t hesitate to connect with others, reach out when necessary, share your feelings, and seek support when needed. Remember, vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. And outside the company of your family and loved ones, join community groups or volunteer for local organizations. Building connections with others who share similar goals can create a sense of belonging and mutual support.

Embracing Change

Change is a natural part of life, and embracing it can significantly enhance your resilience. Instead of viewing change as a threat, try to see it as an opportunity for growth. Ask yourself what you can learn from new experiences and cultivate curiosity about new situations. Being open to different perspectives and experiences can help you navigate changes more smoothly.

Developing Coping Strategies

Having effective coping strategies in place can make a significant difference in how you handle stress and adversity. Simple techniques such as practicing mindfulness can help you stay grounded and present because even a few minutes of meditation each day can reduce anxiety and enhance your overall wellbeing, engaging in regular physical activity is not only beneficial for your body but also for your mind whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing, movement can be a powerful stress reliever, and exploring creative outlets like journaling, painting, or playing music can provide a valuable space for processing emotions and promoting healing.

Building a Positive Mindset

A positive mindset is a cornerstone of resilience. When negative thoughts arise, challenge them by questioning their validity. Replace them with more balanced, realistic perspectives and engage with uplifting content, whether through books, podcasts, or social media. Seek out inspirational stories that encourage resilience and hope.

Setting Realistic Goals

Goal setting is an essential part of building resilience. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a massive goal, break it into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate each small victory along the way to keep your motivation high. Be open to adjusting your goals as circumstances change. Resilience is about adapting to new challenges rather than rigidly sticking to a plan.

Your Journey to Resilience Starts Now

Now that we’ve explored the various dimensions of resilience, take a moment to reflect. What does resilience look like in your life? Are there specific challenges you’re currently facing that require a resilient mindset? Resilience is not just a buzzword; it’s a transformative trait that can empower you to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.

By understanding its importance and actively working to cultivate it, you can navigate life’s challenges with strength and hope. So, take that first step today! Reach out to someone in your support network, set a small goal, or practice gratitude. Remember, every little action counts in the journey of resilience. our future is bright, and you have the power within you to create it!