Leeds has a Migrant Access Programme (MAP) which aims to promote community cohesion and enhance resilience and sustainability of local communities in Leeds. The Programme uses asset-based engagement tools to work to bring new migrants and settled communities together in a way that benefits everyone in their local area. As part of this programme the city trains ‘Migrant Community Networkers’ (MCN’s) to lead, train and advocate for their community. Whilst there are many strands to the role of the networkers, one of the key aspects is encouraging people to meet in the Buddying system where the Programme links migrants living in the same area but from different communities to work together and develop initiatives to help other migrants in their area, whether that be running events, applying for funding or meeting with new arrivals in their community.
