This year, inspired by Refugee Week’s theme for 2018, ‘20 Simple Acts’, we’re launching an online initiative called #HappyToHost which will take place on Thursday 21st June.
Did you know, last year, more than 1,500 people were involved in hosting schemes across the NACCOM network? This included more than 800 guests and nearly 700 hosts. #HappyToHost is a way for these schemes and their guests and volunteers to share their experiences of hosting in creative ways.
By highlighting both the impact and simplicity of hosting, we aim to encourage new people to open up their homes to people in need and raise awareness about destitution.
How to get involved
- SPEAK UP
Put together a short video clip (20-60 seconds) with a simple, positive message about the benefits of hosting. You could think of a moment of happiness or surprise. Maybe the first meal you shared, perhaps a moment that made you all laugh, or a time when you shared in some good news. Or why not think back to how you felt before you first hosted anyone, and how you feel now? For other inspirational ideas, see the Refugee Week website.
For this action you will need a recording device (e.g. smart phone video/tablet/camera with audio) and a short prepared message. This can be completed anytime from now until the 20th June.
Please note, all participants will need to sign a consent form (parents/carers can sign on behalf of under 18s) to be attached with the video.
- PEN A POEM
Write a short (20 words or 140 characters) poem with a simple, positive message about the benefits of hosting. You could think of a moment of happiness or surprise. Maybe the first meal you shared, perhaps a moment that made you all laugh, or a time when you shared in some good news. Or why not think back to how you felt before you first hosted anyone, and how you feel now? For other inspirational ideas, see the Refugee Week website.
Please note, all participants will need to sign a consent form to be attached with the poem.
Once completed, send content and consent forms to [email protected] anytime from now until the 20th June.
Content will be processed and checked, and once approved will be uploaded to social media channels with a link to website page to register interest, using the hashtag #HappyToHost and #SimpleActs during Thursday 21st June.
Follow up
Details passed on by prospective hosts (via the NACCOM website link which is coming soon!) will be shared with hosting schemes in the relevant locations to follow up.
