Volunteer to become virtual pen-pal with Turkish families

Furkan has been volunteering with HMR Circle

HMR Circle is looking for volunteers to become virtual pen-pals with Turkish families based in Rochdale.

One of HMR Circle’s office-based volunteers is Furkan, from a Turkish refugee family based in Rochdale. Furkan's father, Levent, along with other Turkish refugees who are based in and around the Rochdale area have created a support network for their fellow Turkish refugees. Part of this is connecting with local people and families as virtual pen pals.

The Turkish families want to learn about British history and culture as well as improving their English skills. HMR Circle is looking for volunteers who would like to be involved and have Zoom get-togethers with the Turkish families.

Mark Wynn, director at HMR Circle, said: “Furkan has been a real asset in the office and we have supported him in his ambition to go to university.

“During the lockdown we have remained in contact with all our members and volunteers and with Furkan we have helped him and his family access support from other Turkish people.”

Special Projects Coordinator at HMR Circle, Kim Ho will be pulling the project together from the HMR Circle side.

Kim added: “Speaking with Furkan and his father, Levent, and when they mentioned the ‘Zoom’ groups they had created, we knew this was something we could help with. As it is, they have 16 Turkish families on the waiting list to match up with British ‘virtual pen pals’ so we are looking for British families, couples or individuals who would like to get involved.”

The offer to get involved is open to anyone; you don't have to be a Circle or VDS Member to be part of the project.

If you want to get involved or would like more information, drop Kim an email at kim@hmrcircle.org.uk or call 0800 112 3440.