Contents
Learning English. ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
DCC’s Migration and Resettlement team includes three ESOL specialists: qualified ESOL teachers with many years of experience who provide signposting, resources and expert advice to learners and practitioners across the county.
We liaise with all ESOL providers and regularly update our map of Devon ESOL classes. For details of all English language classes on offer in Devon and where to find them, please visit our interactive map at https://www.devon.gov.uk/migration-and-resettlement/maps/
If you need information or advice about ESOL, including help with finding the right English language class, please contact us at ESOL@devon.gov.uk
Mainstream (accredited) ESOL
To study towards a recognised qualification in English, sign up (subject to eligibility) for a course at a Further Education (FE) college or with the county council’s own Adult Education provider, Learn Devon. ESOL courses offered by these providers are usually free for eligible learners.
Exeter College:
- Email: adultESOL@exe-coll.ac.uk or lauragrix@exe-coll.ac.uk
- Website: https://exe-coll.ac.uk/course/esol-skills-for-life/
North Devon College (Barnstaple and Tiverton):
City College Plymouth:
- Email: info@cityplym.ac.uk
- Website: https://www.cityplym.ac.uk/study/course-search/?swpquery=esol&_search=esol
South Devon College (Torbay):
- Email: Enquiries@southdevon.ac.uk
- Website: https://www.southdevon.ac.uk/
Learn Devon:
Community ESOL
Devon is lucky to have many voluntary and community organisations and groups that offer free English classes and conversation groups. While most of these classes do not lead to a qualification, community ESOL classes are usually taught by well-qualified and experienced teachers. As well as helping learners to improve their English, they also support integration by helping to build strong connections in the local community. The main providers of community ESOL in Devon are
- CISCO (Crediton)
- DCRS (Plymouth)
- Imagine Torbay (Torbay)
- Odils Academy (Plymouth)
- Pickwell Foundation (Barnstaple and North Devon)
- St Sidwell’s Centre (Exeter and surrounding area)
- Sunrise Diversity (Barnstaple and North Devon)
- Teignbridge CVS (Newton Abbot, Chudleigh and wider Teignbridge)
For more information and contact details for these providers, click on the links above. This will take you to for all of these providers can be found in section 1 of this Directory.
Reallyenglish Foundation
Reallyenglish Foundation is a UK-registered charity focused on advancing English language education for people affected by social and economic disadvantage, displacement, and conflict. Using digital learning technology and partnerships with educators, NGOs, schools, and community organisations, the Foundation supports learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds to develop English communication skills, improve access to education and employment, and build confidence and inclusion within their communities. Current and planned initiatives include support for refugee, asylum seeker, and resettled communities, alongside wider programmes promoting accessible and affordable English language learning globally.
- Website: https://www.reallyenglish.org/
- Email: foundation@reallyenglish.com
Online ESOL and an app
Online classes at different levels are available for learners who face difficulties accessing face-to-face English classes in their local area.
- Learn Devon – https://www.learndevon.co.uk/subjects/english-esol/
- Our ESOL and Engagement Team. Contact us at ESOL@devon.gov.uk
For studying at home there is also a free app, AILEM +, that has been created by refugees to support other refugees and asylum seekers. Go to https://www.ailemapplaunch.org/ or visit the Google app store.
Employment and Careers
Finding a job in Devon when your first language is not English can be extremelyzchallenging. Fortunately, there are a number of organisations offering support
with:
- job searches
- writing a CV and/or a letter of application
- advice on interview techniques in UK
- signposting to work-experience and volunteering opportunities (volunteering is a great way to practice English and to improve your CV)
- English for Specific Purposes (ESP) – the extra English that you might need in order to work in a particular trade or profession, e.g. English for Construction
Job Centre Plus (JC+)
The first place to go if you are looking for a job and/or to sign on for benefits. You will be introduced to a Job Coach who will help you search for jobs. JC+ can also provide free training, help with getting qualifications translated – and much more. https://www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
Devon Employment Hubs
Devon Employment Hubs offer friendly, local support to help people move into work, training, or education. Skilled advisors work with individuals to identify opportunities and career pathways, helping them on the next step of their employment, learning or skills journey. The Hubs work with other organisations to give people the confidence and clarity they need, supporting them to move forward to what they want to do next.
There are 7 Employment hubs in Devon, in Exeter, Crediton, Tiverton, Honiton, Barnstaple, Newton Abbot and Tavistock. For hull details of locations and opening hours/days, please visit http://www.devon.cc/employment-hubs
To make an appointment for any of the hubs, fill out the form or email employmenthub@devon.gov.uk To make an appointment for any of the hubs, email employmenthub@devon.gov.uk
Connect to Work
Connect to Work is a targeted programme that supports individuals who face barriers to employment, helping them prepare for and secure sustainable jobs. It offers personalised, one-to-one support, including skills development, job matching, and in-work support. For employers, the service helps identify suitable candidates and provides ongoing support to ensure successful placements and long-term retention.
Both services can be accessed by contacting your local Employment Hub –
http://www.devon.cc/employment-hubs
Other Local Support With Finding The Right Job
The following organisations can provide specific employment support for ethnically diverse communities:
- Pickwell Foundation, North Devon
- Teignbridge CVS, Teignbridge
- Odils International Language School, Plymouth
- St Sidwell’s Centre, Exeter – The centre runs a drop-in every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm which is open to all, including jobseekers looking for advice. Laptops are available.
- East Devon District Council Homes for Ukraine Team https://eastdevon.gov.uk/housing-and-homelessness/resettlement-projects/what-is-homes-for-ukraine-scheme/
To find other support in your area freely available to all members of the public, see our interactive map: https://www.devon.gov.uk/migration-and-resettlement/maps/
Starting Your Own Business
There are a number of local and national organisations offering advice and support to anyone who is interested in launching a new business
- The Entrepreneurial Refugee Network (TERN) https://wearetern.org/ We help refugees become entrepreneurs, launch businesses and take control of their futures.
- Refugee Employment Network (REN) – https://refugeeentrepreneurship.com/
- Diversity Business Incubator (DBI) – based in Plymouth, offers a range of support to local entrepreneurs
Children’s Education
Early Years
The government in UK provides funding for all 3 and 4 year old children to attend early years provision for up to 30 hours per week for free.
Children aged 9 months to 2 years old currently can receive 15 hours per week of free early years provision. From September 2025, this will increase to 30 hours per week. To find out more about Early Years support available in Devon, and how to apply for a place for your child, visit https://www.devon.gov.uk/educationandfamilies/early-years-and-childcare/
School Admissions
If you are resident in Devon, you can apply for a place in a mainstream state primary or secondary school. For guidance on how to apply for a school place for your child and for information about where to go if you need support:
- visit our website https://www.devon.gov.uk/educationandfamilies/school-information/apply-for-a-school-place/
- email the DCC Admissions team at admissions@devon.gov.uk
- or call the My Devon helpline on 0345 155 1019
Ethnically Diverse Education Achievement Service (EDEAS)
EDEAS provides advice and guidance to support schools to remove barriers and inequalities in attainment and achievement for ethnically diverse children and young people, as well as those learning English as an additional language (EAL), including providing Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and bilingual resources. We provide bilingual support, EAL, GRTS and EDI consultancy, as well as interpreting and translation services to schools and Early years providers.
- Contact: educate.educationethnicdiverseachievement-mailbox@devon.gov.uk
- Website: https://www.devon.gov.uk/support-schools-settings/inclusion/ethnically-diverse-education-achievement-service/
- Interpreter booking request: https://tinyurl.com/EDEASbooking
- Send translations to educate.educationbilingualsupport-mailbox@devon.gov.uk for a free quote.
EAL (English as an Additional Language)
EAL is the term used in the UK in reference to supporting children of refugees and other migrants with learning English. The following places provide advice, guidance and support with EAL:
- EDEAS: see previous entry
- Visit the Bell Foundation: https://www.bell-foundation.org.uk/ for expert guidance on EAL for parents, teachers and schools
- The EAL academy: https://theealacademy.co.uk/ guidance and practical tools for teachers and EAL consultancy and training packages for schools
Schools of Sanctuary
A growing national network of more than 1100 schools and nurseries, all committed to creating a culture of welcome, understanding and belonging for refugees and other migrants. In Devon, the Schools of Sanctuary initiative is being championed by the Pickwell Foundation.
- Website: https://schools.cityofsanctuary.org/
VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) support for schools and children’s education
Most of the VCSE sector organisations listed in Section 1 above are happy to offer support to families and children and/or to local schools. There are some VCSE organisations that specialise in providing support and training for pupils, teachers and governors in local schools, including:
Adult Education
Further Education (FE)
Colleges in the UK offer a wide range of courses to adults aged 16 and over. You can sign up for a course whether you are 16 or 76. All courses
for 16 to 18 year olds are free. In Devon, there are three FE Colleges and DCC’s own FE provider, Learn Devon
- Exeter College https://exe-coll.ac.uk/
- North Devon College – Barnstaple and Tiverton campuses https://www.petroc.ac.uk/
- South Devon College -Torbay and Newton Abbot campuses https://www.southdevon.ac.uk/
- Learn Devon https://www.learndevon.co.uk/
Higher Education (HE)
In the UK, you need to apply for university through a website called UCAS: https://www.ucas.com/ The following link explains how to apply: https://www.ucas.com/applying
University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth, located in Britain’s Ocean City, is renowned for its world-class teaching, impactful research, and commitment to sustainability. With a diverse and inclusive community, it welcomes students from around the globe, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration. Plymouth offers a vibrant campus life and a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for a global future, combining practical learning with a supportive, welcoming environment.
Search for undergraduate / postgraduate courses and research opportunities here: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study
Open University
The Open University offers flexible distance-learning courses and other accessible options for study to students of all backgrounds. Designed to fit around work and life commitments, it provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, along with tailored support for diverse learning needs. Its inclusive approach empowers students to upskill, retrain, or achieve qualifications at their own pace.
Search for courses here: https://www.open.ac.uk/
University of Exeter
The University of Exeter, a top UK institution, offers a full range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research opportunities. With students from 140+ countries, it fosters a vibrant, inclusive environment through cultural festivals, international societies, and language programs. Exeter University values diversity as a catalyst for innovation and creativity, recognising that a multicultural community promotes a deeper understanding of global issues and prepares students to become global citizens.
Search for undergraduate / postgraduate courses and research opportunities here: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/
Support for International Students
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of dedicated teams, support schemes, and initiatives to help international students feel welcome and ensure their experience is rewarding and successful.
- Wellbeing support: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/wellbeing/devon/support/for-all/international/
- Practical advice from the Students’ Guild: https://www.exeterguild.com/kb#International
- International Student Advice and International Student Experience teams: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/international/
- Intercultural Café: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/international/getinvolved/interculturalcafe/
- Academic English language skills development https://www.exeter.ac.uk/students/english-language-skills/
- International staff and post-graduate students network https://www.exeter.ac.uk/departments/inclusion/groups/networks/isn/
University of Exeter Students’ Guild
The Guild is an independent, non-profit charity led by students and staff, working to ensure every student can make the most of their time at Exeter. Membership is free and automatic for all University of Exeter students.
Our events programme includes trips, movie nights, and social activities—whether you’re an undergrad, postgrad, online learner, or based at Streatham or St Luke’s, there’s something for everyone.
Student voices shape everything we do. We amplify their views, support positive change, and create an inclusive space where all perspectives are respected.
Societies
With over 250 university societies to choose from (www.exeterguild.com/communities), our student-led groups are where students can make friends, have fun and connect over a shared interest or activity. All students are welcome to join any society, but we’ve highlighted a selection that may be of particular interest to international students:
Guidance and support provided by the Guild:
We offer free, confidential, and impartial in-person or online advice related to students’ housing, course or finances. Access advice on issues such as academic problems, finances, housing: www.exeterguild.com/find-support
- Website: www.exeterguild.com
- Social Media: @exeterguild
- Email: info@exeterguild.com
- Opportunities to get involved: www.exeterguild.com/get-involved
The Universities of Sanctuary team at Exeter
As part of the University of Sanctuary network, a UK-wide initiative, the University of Exeter Sanctuary team work to foster a culture of welcome and inclusion for asylum seekers and refugees – including offering sanctuary scholarships and partial fee waivers to undergraduate students who are seeking asylum. These scholarships are competitive, so if you are interested in applying, it is a good idea to apply well in advance of your course.
- Website: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/departments/inclusion/support/uos/
- Universities of Sanctuary Network: https://universities.cityofsanctuary.org/
Housing
District Council Support
In Devon, the District and City Councils manage local social housing and provide advice and support with finding a home, dealing with landlords and for anyone facing homelessness.
By law in the UK, your local council must provide you with emergency accommodation if you have a priority need. For example, if you are pregnant if you have a disability; if you are suffering from trauma because of your experiences
East Devon District Council https://eastdevon.gov.uk/housing-and-homelessness/ | phone: 01395 517469
Exeter City Council https://exeter.gov.uk/housing/ | phone: 01392 277888
Mid Devon District Council https://www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/mid-devon-housing/ | phone: 01884 255255
North Devon Council https://www.northdevon.gov.uk/housing | phone: 01271 388870
South Hams District Council https://www.southhams.gov.uk/housing | phone: 01803 861234
Teignbridge Council https://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/housing/ | phone: 01626 361101
Torridge District Council https://www.torridge.gov.uk/housing | phone: 01237 428700.
West Devon Borough Council https://www.westdevon.gov.uk/housing | phone: 01822 813600
Path (Plymouth Access to Housing)
Path provides housing and housing‑related support to refugees who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Plymouth, helping them find and remain in safe accommodation. Support may include help with understanding tenancy rights and responsibilities, accessing health and wellbeing services, and navigating local systems. Path works closely with local authorities, landlords, and voluntary sector partners to achieve positive outcomes.
Access to Path services is typically via referral from local authorities and partner agencies who can on contact 01752 255889 to discuss eligibility and referral routes.
- Website: www.pathdevon.org
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/6144671
National Support
Shelter – A UK charity that provides help for anyone facing a housing problem. https://england.shelter.org.uk/
Refugees at Home – connects hosts with refugees and asylum seekers across the UK https://refugeesathome.org/
British Red Cross – https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/get-help-as-a-refugee
Neurodiversity
The word Neurodiversity refers to the diverse experience of all people and the many different ways in which we experience and interact with the worlds. However, it is often used in the context of the autistic spectrum and other neurological conditions such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) or learning disabilities.
Devon County Council’s SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) local offer
Signposts a wide range of locally available support. https://www.devon.gov.uk/education-and-families/send-local-offer/about-send-and-the-local-offer/
South West Autism Support Services
Specialise in supporting children and young people on the autistic spectrum. https://www.southwestautismsupport.com/
North Devon Down Syndrome Group
Supports families from all walks of life who have a family member with Down Syndrome. Organises outings and activities – bringing families together for support and to have fun.
- Website: https://devonconnect.org/profile/lynn_646
- Email: lynnashman@live.com
WayMakers Devon CIC
Solution-focused support for autistic and ADHD people without significant learning needs (aged 14+) to build accessible and fulfilling lives. Also works with employers and professionals to improve accessibility and neuroinclusion. Works across Devon and beyond.
- Website: https://waymakers.co.uk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WayMakersDevon/
LGBTQ+
Intercom Trust
A Southwest charity providing LGBT+ communities with advocacy, low-cost counselling, domestic abuse services, training / consultancy, and general support. Combating homophobia and transphobia across Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay to promote respect and equality.
- Website: www.intercomtrust.org.uk
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheIntercomTrust
Micro Rainbow
Working towards a world where LGBTQ+ people are free from discrimination and have equal opportunities in all fields of life. Provides safe housing for LGBTQ+ asylum seekers; supports refugees through employment, education, volunteering and training programs; and runs social activities to combat isolation.
- Website: https://microrainbow.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MicroRainbowInternational
Sunrise Diversity
Sunrise Diversity provides support for LGBTQ+ people.
Women’s Support
CoLab Women
Supports women facing multiple disadvantages, particularly homelessness, domestic abuse, sexual violence and other challenges. CoLab Women uses a trauma-informed, strength-based approach to rebuild resilience, confidence, and self-esteem. Brave Spaces is a two-year test and learn project supporting women facing these issues. https://www.colabexeter.org.uk/colab-women
The Olive Project
The Olive Project works with black and minoritized women and girls who are subjected to abuse and violence, and to support them to live free from harm.
Wave Wahines CIC
A surf club with the Aloha spirit, offering a safe space for women and girls from all backgrounds and lived experiences to access surfing and connect with our oceans. Also run bespoke sessions for resettled communities and women recovering from trauma.
- Website: www.wavewahines.co.uk
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/NDwavewahines
Physical Health
In the UK, your GP (General Practitioner) is your first point of contact for health concerns and can refer you to specialists if needed. For help finding and registering with a GP, visit https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/ and for NHS services in Devon, see https://myhealth-devon.nhs.uk/
Below are additional national and local organisations offering health and wellbeing support.
Public Health (Devon County Council)
Public Health is a team within Devon County Council responsible for Health Improvement, Health Protection, Healthcare Public Health. We are supported by public health Intelligence, policy and research in everything we do. We work in partnership with other health and local authority partners to achieve this such as social care, UK Health Security Agency, Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, NHS, district councils, VCSE partners amongst many others. Public Health has a Public Health Grant from the Department of Health and Social Care which allows the team to commission and deliver programmes of work to improve the health of the population. We commission services for public health nursing, sexual health, drug and alcohol services and a variety of training offers for staff.
Here are a few of the many initiatives we facilitate by working with partners:
- Together – Exeter – alcohol and drugs recovery program https://www.waythrough.org.uk/find-support-near-me/together/
- Devon Sexual Health – contraception, HIV care, abortion services, testing, PrEP, support for victims of sexual assault, and other services https://www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk/
- Public Health Nursing – nursing hubs, home visits visits, school nursing, services for vulnerable children, young people and families, texting information service https://www.devon.gov.uk/children-families-education/child-family-support/health/public-health-nursing/
Vaccinations
Are you and your family protected?
Vaccinations are one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community from serious illnesses like flu, meningitis, measles, mumps and polio. In the UK, all routine vaccines are free for everyone.
Book an appointment with your GP practice to review your vaccination history and discuss any additional vaccines you might need. If you’re unsure which vaccines you or your family have received, don’t worry — you can safely restart the schedule.
Learn more about vaccinations on the official NHS website: NHS vaccinations and when to have them – NHS
The Eddystone Trust
Southwest-based charity supporting Devon residents with sexual health and HIV services. Offers rapid HIV and syphilis testing, help accessing sexual health screenings, and resources like condoms, PrEP, and PEP. Advocates for those living with HIV, offering peer support, guidance around diagnosis, and non-judgmental, person-centred care.
- Website: Eddystone.org.uk
- Phone: 08003283508.
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheEddystoneTrust/
Mental Health and Wellbeing
The term wellbeing relates to all aspects of your health – physical, mental, emotional and social. The organisations listed in this section offer a range of services to support your wellbeing, including counselling, volunteering roles, the chance to take up a new hobby, the opportunity to meet new people.
If you are experiencing mental ill-health and looking for support, please start by talking to your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to specialist support.
National Support
Barnado’s Helplines
Barnardo’s offers several mental health and wellbeing helplines for ethnically diverse communities. All helplines are available Monday to Friday, 10am-8pm, and Saturday, 10am-3pm.
- Boloh Helpline: Support for adult asylum seekers and HK British nationals. Offers advice, signposting, emotional support, and 8 free therapy sessions. Call 0800 151 2605 (languages available, with interpreters) or use webchat at https://helpline.barnardos.org.uk/ or email boloh.helpline@barnados.org.uk
- Refugee Family Helpline: Emotional and practical support, advice and signposting for families seeking sanctuary in the UK. Call 0808 156 8777 or email refugeefamilyhelpline@barnados.org.uk
- Hong Kong Helpline: Referrals for therapy, counselling, youth space, peer support, family space, and webinars for HK British nationals. Call 0808 169 1671 or email HongKong@barnados.org.uk (English and Cantonese).
- Ukrainian Support Helpline: Therapy, advice, and practical support for Ukrainian refugees. Call 0800 148 8586 (English, Ukrainian, Russian) or email ukrainiansupport@barnados.org.uk
Migrant Right’s Network
is a national network offering advice and guidance on mental health, on what support is available and how to access it. Mental Health – Migrants’ Rights Network
London Op COURAGE
Mental health assessment, advocacy and support for Afghans already living in England who worked to assist the British Armed Forces between Oct 2001 – Aug 2021, as well as their families. Staff speak English, Dari and Pashto. To contact support, call 02033177979, email afghanservice@candi.nhs.uk or visit https://londonveteranservice.nhs.uk/warm-welcome-afghan-service
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Mental health information packs for patients and carers translated into 29 languages https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/translations
Child Bereavement UK: Ukrainian Packs
Child bereavement resources in Ukrainian https://www.childbereavementuk.org/Listing/Category/resources-in-ukrainian
Mental Health Foundation
Resources for refugees and asylum seekers translated into multiple languages including Pashto, Dari, Arabic Ukrainian. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/programmes/refugees/resources
Solace
Helpful video resources to help refugees and asylum seekers arriving in the UK understand and cope with mental challenges they may face, such as stress, PTSD, difficulty sleeping and lack of confidence. There are also exercises designed to help manage the effects of stress and trauma. These resources are available in English, Albanian, Farsi, Kurdish Sorani, Pashto or Tigrinya. Helpful resources for refugees and people seeking safety | Solace
Devon-Based Support
NHS Mental Health Support
The NHS offers guidance and a range of different links for anyone experiencing mental ill-health.
https://www.dpt.nhs.uk/ directory
Talkworks
Devon’s NHS Talking Therapies Service. A free, confidential, service, part of NHS Talking Therapies , for people (aged 18+) in Devon (excluding Plymouth). https://www.talkworks.dpt.nhs.uk/
Livewell SW
Offers a specialist service for anyone living in the Plymouth area. Dedicated to supporting the health and mental health needs of asylum seekers and those who have sought refuge in the UK. https://www.livewellsouthwest.co.uk/project/asylum-seekers-refugees-mental-health-team
Ubuntu Devon Ltd
Ubuntu Devon Ltd offers a holistic counselling service for Black and Minority Ethnic Communities in Devon.
Exeter Community Initiatives
Exeter Community Initiatives began in 1993 supporting homeless people in Exeter. Since then, it has grown into a charity that has developed over 47 community initiatives, many of which have become independent charities. Today, through our five core projects, we empower families, individuals, and communities across Exeter and Devon to overcome challenges and thrive.
Our current projects are:
- Magic Carpet – weekly art and drama sessions bringing together creative practitioners with adults who have learning disabilities or mental health needs.
- Community Builders – supporting Exeter residents to turn ideas into reality by building networks and making use of local spaces, skills, and resources (e.g. mini orchards, garden parties, toddler groups, Little Libraries).
- Family Resource – working with families with children aged 0–18 to strengthen relationships and develop skills, including liaising with providers of education, debt, housing, and mental health services.
- Transitions – supporting adults experiencing vulnerability, isolation, or life changes (e.g. moving home or managing health conditions) through workshops, one‑to‑one coaching, and peer networks.
- Jelly – a children’s charity shop selling pre‑loved items such as clothes, books, toys, and baby equipment. Open Monday–Saturday, 10am–4pm on Fore Street, Exeter, with donations gratefully accepted Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–12pm.
We work alongside individuals and communities, building on their strengths by providing accessible support, learning and growth in safe spaces. We foster meaningful connections and offer resources that enhance resilience, wellbeing and engagement in community life.
- Email: info@eci.org.uk
- Phone: 01392 205 800
- Address: 148-149 Fore Street, Exeter, EX4 3AN
- Website: www.eci.org.uk
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExeterCommunityInitiatives
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exetercommunity/
CEETCIC
Community Environmental Educational Therapy CIC (CEETCIC)
offers support, for the health of people and the planet, through community, art, activity, environmental and wellbeing projects. CEETCIC believes that immersing ourselves in nature, learning how to help our planet, being part of our communities, and being active are valuable ways of developing skills, friendships, confidence, happiness, and self-esteem. Works with schools, refugees, and over 55s.
- Email: sarah@ceetcic.com
- Website: www.ceetcic.co.uk
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CEETCIC/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceet_uk/?img_index=1
The Gardeners Collective CIC
The Gardeners Collective in North Devon connects people with nature through gardening, offering sessions for families, beginners, workplaces, and the general community.
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegardenersco/
Carer Support
Devon Carers
Devon Carers is a free service by Westbank commissioned by Devon County Council and NHS Devon. If you provide unpaid support for an adult living in Devon (excluding Plymouth and Torbay) who needs help because they are ill, frail, disabled or have a mental health or addiction problem, then you can access free support in your caring role.
We treat each carer as an individual, taking time to find out what’s important to them, and work out together how we can support them in their caring role. Services include a helpline, webchat, workshops, peer support groups, hospital services, carer assessments, carers passport, sitting service, website and quarterly magazine.
To find support, contact 03456 434 435, email info@devoncarers.org.uk or visit devoncarers.org.uk. Helpline hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-1pm.
Families in Grief
Our vision is to build a community where children, young people, and families are supported to understand, express, and move through grief with compassion, connection, and hope. We provide a combination of:
- One-to-one support
- Group programmes
- Family days and support for parents and carers
- Resources and support for professionals, schools, and community groups
- Bereavement training
Families in Grief is a secular charity that offers support to people of all backgrounds, with an approach that strives to be inclusive of all religions and beliefs.
- Email: info@familiesingrief.org
- Phone: 01271 447960
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FamiliesInGrief
- Website: https://familiesingrief.org/
- Address: Families in Grief, Castle Lodge, North Walk, Barnstaple EX31 1DF
Policing and Community Engagement
Contacting the police and other emergency services
Emergencies:
In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the service you need: the Police, the Fire and Rescue Service or the Ambulance service.
Non-Emergencies:
For non-emergency situations, you can report issues online or by calling 101. Use this service for incidents that don’t require an immediate police response, such as stolen items, property damage, civil disputes, suspected drug activity, antisocial behaviour, or other non-urgent enquiries. This helps keep emergency lines free for serious situations.
You can find more guidance here: https://www.police.uk/pu/contact-us/what-and-how-to-report/how-to-report/
Devon and Cornwall Police Diverse Communities Team (DCT)
The Devon and Cornwall Police Diverse Communities Team (DCT) is a small team of specialist officers and staff who focus on maintaining and developing confidence in the police, working to ensure community cohesion. It supports local officers in understanding the needs of people with protected characteristics and ensuring that we work with our diverse communities to protect the vulnerable and reduce the risk of harm.
We work to achieve the following aims:
- engagement with people with protected characteristics and from diverse backgrounds to create and maintain trust
- reduce risk to vulnerable people and promote community cohesion through our work with partner agencies
- increase awareness and reporting of hate crime
- reduce the re-victimisation of hate crime victims
- champion the Devon and Cornwall Police Equality Objectives (including reducing violence against women and girls)
We cover all of Devon and Cornwall and can be contacted for non-urgent enquiries Monday to Friday by email using the addresses below. Please note that in an emergency, people should telephone 999/101 or contact via the Devon & Cornwall Police website instead.
- Website: devon-cornwall.police.uk
- Contact (for non-urgent enquiries):
- Diversity Cornwall CIOSDiversity@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
- Diversity Devon DiversityDevon@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
- Diversity Plymouth DiversityPlymouth@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk
Devon and Cornwall Community Scrutiny Panel
The Devon and Cornwall Community Scrutiny Panel is an independent, volunteer-led initiative dedicated to fostering trust and transparency between local communities and Devon & Cornwall Police. The Panel comprises diverse members from across Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, all committed to ensuring fair and accountable policing practices.
Key Activities:
- Monthly online meetings to scrutinise D&C Police body-worn video footage related to local Stop & Search and Use of Force incidents.
- Assessment of police data to identify areas of disproportionality and recommend improvements.
- Providing feedback to police officers, highlighting best practices and addressing areas of concern.
- Offering free training opportunities to enhance public understanding of policing.
- Serving as an independent point of contact for community members to raise concerns about policing practices.
Get Involved:
Individuals aged 16 and above, residing in the region and not currently serving in policing roles (or within the past three years), are welcome to join. No prior experience is required, and free training is provided. All meetings and communications are conducted online to support sustainability goals.
- Email: admin@dccspanel.org.uk
- Website: www.dccspanel.org.uk
- Facebook: facebook.com/dccspanel
- Instagram: instagram.com/dccspanel
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/dccs-panel