Our support for women
Learn about our work with LBTQI women refugees and asylum seekers
of our beneficiaries identify as women
safe bed nights provided for women in 2024
of the UK refugee population are women
We help LBTQI women refugees and asylum seekers to find community and rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.
The women we support are often navigating the asylum system while facing the compounded challenges of gender-based violence, homophobia, transphobia, and racism.
We are proud to offer dedicated support to lesbian, bisexual, trans, and queer refugee and asylum-seeking women through safe housing, peer-led support groups, and inclusive events. Our work is shaped by the voices and lived experiences of the women we serve.
"I wanted to express my heartfelt thanks for organising such a wonderful event. The space you’ve created for connection and sharing is truly special, and I’m incredibly grateful for the positive energy and warmth you all bring. Every moment felt meaningful thanks to your genuine approach and the sense of community you foster. I feel proud to be part of such a strong and inspiring group. Thank you to each and every one of you for keeping this supportive environment alive!"
A member of our Sista Sista women’s support group
Sista Sista - support and community for LBTQI refugee and asylum-seeking women
Sista Sista is Micro Rainbow’s monthly support group for lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer women seeking asylum in the UK. Many of our members have experienced violence, abuse, and rejection because of their sexuality or gender identity, often compounded by racism, displacement, and the trauma of the asylum process. This group offers a confidential, welcoming space where women can begin to heal, connect, and rebuild their lives.
Delivered in partnership with the MRI Foundation, Sista Sista is part of Micro Rainbow’s Social Inclusion programme, which aims to reduce the isolation many LGBTQI refugees and asylum seekers face. The group is shaped by its members, who co-design activities, choose discussion topics, and share their stories.
Each month, women come together to:
Process the impact of gender-based violence in a supportive environment
Reduce isolation and build lasting friendships
Explore identity, relationships, and self-worth
Get involved
Are you an LBTQI women asylum seeker or refugee in the UK interesting in joining Sista Sista events? Or are you an organisation looking to partner with us or host an event? Get in touch by emailing social@microrainbow.org.
Explore previous Sista Sista events
UK Women's March 2025
Black History Month 2024
A trip to Hackney City Farm
“Sista Sista provides a regular, welcoming, and inclusive space where they can come and meet new people, have new experiences, and find support. It’s somewhere where women can come monthly and see many of the same faces and build a friendship network. Over the past year we have really seen this group grow, and attendees have become much more involved in choosing activities for the group to do.”
Micro Rainbow’s LBTQI Women’s Outreach Officer
Safe housing for LBTQI women asylum seekers and refugees
We provide safe housing for LGBTQI asylum seekers across England and Wales.
We currently offer:
- A designated LBTQI women’s house
- A women-only occupied house
These spaces are flexible and responsive to demand, ensuring women have access to safety, dignity, and community. Each house is furnished, secure, and located near essential services, including healthcare, legal support, and transport links.
"I was incredibly lucky that Micro Rainbow was there at the right time. I kept worrying I could end up homeless, like so many LGBTQI asylum seekers do, and risk losing the claim or delaying the process. But when I arrived at the Micro Rainbow house, I felt a sense of relief to have a roof above my head and feel safe at the same time – something I hadn’t felt in a long time. Micro Rainbow provided us with housing and took care of our wellbeing and basic needs. We didn’t need to worry about being homeless and felt a sense of comfort. In the house, you’re encouraged to join the social inclusion programme that Micro Rainbow organises to give asylum seekers and refugees a sense of community when going through our asylum claims. At Micro Rainbow, I was able to connect with people from different backgrounds and with different stories, all united by the same purpose: to live our lives as authentically as possible."
Alana, a trans woman from Malaysia
Integration support for LBTQI women asylum seekers and refugees
Our Moving On programme supports LBTQI women as they transition from the asylum system into independent living, helping them access employment, education, training, and stable housing after being granted refugee status.
LBTQI women are often overlooked in both refugee and LGBTQI support services. Our programme ensures they are seen, heard, and prioritised.
Many have experienced gender-based violence, both in their countries of origin and during their asylum journey. We provide trauma-informed support that centres safety and empowerment.
Women may have had limited access to education or work due to cultural, legal, or economic barriers. We help them build skills, confidence, and pathways to independence.
“Before I came to this training, I didn’t really know what a CV or resume was. We don’t have them in my country, things work differently. I have only just finished school, so I haven’t had a job before. I am claiming asylum at the moment so I can’t work yet, but I have been learning about what I need to do to gain experience. I am volunteering at the moment and taking advantage of as many things for asylum seekers as possible, so I can get experience.“
Fatimah, lesbian woman from Saudi Arabia
Help LBTQI women refugees and asylum seekers
Our work is only possible because of people like you. Your support helps us provide housing, community, and opportunities to LBTQI women rebuilding their lives after fleeing persecution.
There are many ways to take action. You can donate or become an ally to help sustain our services, contact us if you’d like to collaborate or learn more, or give through our Amazon wishlist to provide essential items for our safe houses.