OPAL We-Exist Project

Total Amount Requested: £30,000

Objectives & Purpose

The OPAL Connect Project will deliver a holistic support programme for queer BAME individuals, refugees, and asylum seekers in Brixton and Peckham, addressing legal, emotional, social, and educational needs. The project aims to strengthen participants’ resilience, self-esteem, and social connections, while supporting smoother integration into the community. It will also build OPAL’s organisational capacity, enabling us to sustain and expand locally rooted support in the THINC area.

Community Priority & Alignment

The THINC / Shifting the Power Fund prioritises community-led projects by organisations embedded in Brixton and Peckham. OPAL is already well-established in these communities, with most of our members living locally. This project directly supports BAME LGBTIQ+ individuals, refugees and asylum seekers, who often fall through gaps in statutory or mainstream provision.

Our work addresses health inequalities, mental well-being, social inclusion, and access to opportunity—all key local priorities. Because THINC emphasises resident-led decision-making, OPAL’s grassroots base, trusted relationships, and local partnerships make us strongly aligned with its mission.

Project Activities & Outputs

·      Immigration & Legal Support: Advice, referrals, and assistance navigating the asylum process.

·      Mental Health Support: One-to-one and group therapy, with separate sessions for men and women to provide safe, culturally sensitive spaces.

·      Community Hub / Safe Space: Open four days a week, welcoming 25–35 participants per session for peer-led discussions on identity, internalised homophobia, safe sex, and well-being.

·      Dance & Music Therapy: Twice-weekly sessions using creative expression to promote mental health, confidence, and joy.

·      Education & Employability Support: Guidance and referrals to local colleges and training programmes to enhance employability and integration.

Beneficiaries

·      Queer BAME individuals, refugees, and asylum seekers in Brixton and Peckham.

·      People facing isolation, trauma, discrimination, and mental health challenges, especially where mainstream services are culturally insensitive.

·      Young people navigating belonging and identity within both queer and migrant communities.

Outcomes & Impact

·      Improved mental health, resilience, and well-being.

·      Reduced social isolation through peer networks and safe spaces.

·      Enhanced self-confidence and identity acceptance.

·      Increased sexual health awareness and safer practices.

·      Greater access to education and training, leading to integration and employment.

·      Strengthened social cohesion within local queer refugee communities.

Sustainability & Capacity Building

Funding will support core costs, staff and volunteer training, rent, governance, and infrastructure—ensuring continuity beyond the grant term. We will train peer volunteers and community leaders to sustain local delivery and leadership. Existing partnerships with organisations such as African Advocacy Foundation and 198 Contemporary Arts & Learning will enhance collaboration and referrals. As trust deepens locally, we aim to attract community donations, small earned income, and additional match funding.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Community Involvement

We will track attendance, legal referrals, and training placements, and gather qualitative feedback through surveys, focus groups, and testimonials. Quarterly reviews with participants will ensure a responsive and participatory approach. In line with THINC’s emphasis on local accountability, beneficiaries and residents will join advisory panels to shape delivery and evaluation. A final public impact report will share outcomes, lessons, and plans for scale or replication.