The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) works with Afghans and Central Asians living away from their homeland, providing them with the support, skills and knowledge to live and prosper in the UK.
Our wide range of services includes English language classes, employment workshops, a women’s support group, a Saturday school and homework club, youth and family support services, drop-in and telephone advice, volunteer placements, and cultural and social events. We provide outreach and visits to individuals and families in detention.
We also work in Afghanistan, where we are developing citizens advice centres in Kabul and Pul-e-Khumri, following a successful pilot project from 2013–2016. They will offer free, impartial and confidential advice, information, support and legal aid on issues including education, employment and domestic violence.
The ACAA has grown from a small organization in Lewisham to a full-functioning charity supporting thousands of refugees in the UK. Since our inception in Lewisham, the charity has expanded its geographical remit in Hounslow, Croydon, Ealing and Greenwich, providing educational, language, mental health, legal and advice services to reduce isolation, overcome language and cultural barriers and improve employment by offering tailored and culturally-sensitive help that suits our beneficiaries’ specific situation and needs. Over 25 years, we have expanded our impact of scope and ACAA now supports over 15,000 refugees every year.