08/07/2026
We were privileged to meet Peter Dixon, the High Sheriff of Somerset at Without Borders our social enterprise coffee shop and art gallery yesterday. Peter was very interested in the many aspects of our work with refugees and asylum seekers, and was especially pleased to chat with some of our staff and volunteers about their lives.
It was a real pleasure to meet Gordon East from Charis Refugees yesterday and to visit Without Borders, an inspiring social enterprise combining a cafe and creative art space to provide employment, training, volunteering and opportunities for displaced people.
I was deeply moved by the stories that I heard and the incredible resilience, talent and determination of the people I met. One of them was a former Art teacher, who now runs the art classes at Without Borders, helping others discover their creativity while building a new life here in Somerset.
I also met a young man working in the cafe who after only a short time in the UK has achieved 3rd place in the National Trampolining Championships and has been named best international student at the Bridgwater & Taunton college where he is studying English.
These are just two stories among many that Gordon told me, that are a powerful reminder of the resilience, talent and contribution that refugees and asylum seekers bring to our communities when they are given the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you Gordon for your time and for sharing the inspirational work of Charis Refugees and Without Borders.
I was hugely impressed and look forward to learning more about your activities and supporting this outstanding organisation in the future.
