For Queer Refugees: How to Access Support

Get Support in the UK

  • Rainbow Migration

    Free and Confidential Legal Advice
    → If you're in the UK and have already applied for asylum, you can receive guidance on asylum application steps, appeals, or fresh submissions, free of charge Rainbow Migration.

    Emotional and Social Assistance
    → They offer support to build confidence, reduce isolation, and help you engage with housing and health services Rainbow Migration+1.

    Note on Service Availability
    → Their legal services are currently paused but expected to resume on 4 August 2025. If you have nearby deadlines or need urgent help, contact them directly via email Rainbow Migration.

    Here to help!

  • Micro Rainbow

    Safe Housing Access
    → LGBTQI asylum seekers and refugees can apply for a place in their safe houses located in London, the West Midlands, the North West, and South Wales Micro Rainbow+1.

    Moving On Support
    → You can get help opening a bank account, accessing benefits, finding employment, and receiving mentoring—particularly through their corporate-partnered “Moving On” program Micro Rainbow+1.

    Social Inclusion Groups
    → Join peer support meet-ups like “Weather the Storm,” “Trans+,” and “Sista Sista” for emotional healing, creative expression, and community bonding Micro Rainbow+1.

    Contact Channels
    → Email their social inclusion team at social@microrainbow.org to learn about sessions or referrals Micro Rainbow.

    Here to help!

  • Say It Loud Club (SILC)

    One-on-One Mentoring and Peer Support
    → You can access mentoring, workshops, crisis help, and referrals to healthcare, housing, or legal services Say It Loud Club.

    Community Events and Safe Spaces
    → Participate in social gatherings and feel part of a supportive LGBTQ+ refugee community—membership is member-led and inclusive Say It Loud Club.

    How to Get Involved
    → Reach out via info@sayitloudclub.org or phone (+44 7478 801676) to connect, request support, or get invited to events

    Here to help!

Pathways to Safety and Empowerment: A Resource Guide for Supporting and Assisting Queer Refugees in the U.S.

Queer refugees in the U.S. face unique challenges, from fleeing persecution to navigating complex resettlement systems. This resource guide highlights two key organizations such as Rainbow Railroad and Safe Place International, that provide life-saving support and long-term empowerment for LGBTQI+ individuals. Rainbow Railroad offers emergency relocation, post-arrival support through Community Support Teams, and housing initiatives for those facing immediate danger. Safe Place International focuses on holistic healing and leadership development through programs like The Dream Academy and the Global Family Initiative. Whether you're someone looking to help or a refugee in need of assistance, these organizations provide powerful pathways to safety, community, and transformation.

Get Support in the U.S.

  • Rainbow Railroad (U.S. & Global Support)

    Direct Assistance
    →Rainbow Railroad provides emergency travel support, cash assistance, information services, and referrals to LGBTQI+ individuals under threat. Rainbow Railroad+1

    Post-Arrival Support via Communities of Care
     → While direct self-referrals aren’t accepted yet, refugees can be referred through partner organizations in major U.S. hubs (e.g., New York, D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area). This includes housing assistance, stipend support, and integration services.Rainbow Railroad+1

    Here to help!

  • Safe Place International (Global, U.S.‑Relevant Focus)

    Leadership Development & Emotional Support
    → Through The Dream Academy, refugees engage in structured learning that transforms trauma into empowerment, fostering both individual and community resilience. safeplaceinternational.org+1

    Holistic, Refugee‑Led Support Systems
    → Using their 3-Pillar (“Protect, Connect, Lead”) Ecosystem Model, Safe Place offers layered protection, community connection, and leadership opportunities backed by research and advocacy. Safe Place International

    Here to help!

Next Steps & Inclusion

Referral Pathways: If you’re assisting refugees, contact local organizations partnered with Rainbow Railroad for CST enrollment. For Safe Place International, research how to connect through their Global Family or Dream Academy programs.