In Focus with Refugee Women of Bristol

At Spaceworks, we’re proud to celebrate the inspiring organisations that make our community so special. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Refugee Women of Bristol (RWoB), based Easton Business Centre.

RWoB is the only multi-ethnic, multi-faith organisation in Bristol led by and for refugee and asylum-seeking women.

How do you explain to people what you do?

“We provide services to disenfranchised groups over and above the generic category of ‘refugee’ and routinely reach cohorts of women that other service providers overlook or are unable to access. RWoB users predominantly reside in areas of multiple deprivation, and many face additional challenges such as language barriers, long-term health issues, and social isolation.

We offer a weekly drop-in centre, creating a safe space for women to connect, build confidence, and improve their mental health. Through our programs, we foster belonging and promote community participation. Our services are equitable and user-led, tailored to the real needs of our members.

We also run specialist services like the Mend the Gap project, in partnership with FORWARD, tackling violence against women and girls in African communities. Our Refugee Women’s Health Hub bridges gaps between communities and health providers.

Through awareness-raising and member involvement in program design, we remove barriers, promote integration, and empower women to shape their own futures.”

How did you get started?

“RWoB was set up in February 2003 from a powerful and shared vision: to create a space where refugee women could support one another and access vital services. It began when the Community Development Worker at Refugee Action was approached by several women wanting to connect with others who had shared experiences.

A consultation meeting brought together 21 women from five countries. Their passion was clear—they wanted an inclusive, accessible group offering advice, interpreters, and opportunities to engage with professionals from mainstream services.

They also highlighted the importance of partnerships and raising awareness about refugee women’s unique challenges. These early discussions laid the foundation for the inclusive and participatory organisation RWoB is today.”

What do you want to shout about?

“A recent highlight has been our exciting growth and the launch of new services. Our ‘Mend the Gap Project’ tackles multiple forms of violence against women and girls within African communities. We offer 1-to-1 support, outreach, leadership training, and access to counselling, empowering women and building resilience.

We’re also proud to lead the ‘Refugee Women’s Health Hub’ as part of the NHS Healthier Together system. Hosted fortnightly in Easton, it provides a trusted space for women to engage directly with health professionals. This initiative improves access to care and promotes long-term health equity.”

Why Spaceworks?

“We chose Easton Business Centre based on strong recommendations from trusted partners like the British Red Cross and Refugee Action. Its location in Easton—a vibrant and diverse community—makes it ideal for our work and our members.

Accessibility was key: good public transport, parking, and a welcoming environment. From day one, the Spaceworks staff have been professional, warm, and supportive. It’s been a truly positive experience.”

What’s one thing you’d like others to know?

“RWoB is proudly owned and led by women from refugee and asylum-seeking communities. This makes us truly unique. We were founded to fill a vital gap—a safe, welcoming space for women navigating new lives in unfamiliar systems.

What sets us apart is that our work is shaped directly by the voices of our members. Their lived experiences guide everything we do. This community is our power, and their resilience drives the meaningful impact we are proud to make every day.”

👉 Interested in joining a community that grows with you?