Archive of Belonging (AOB) is a directory and archive for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. It brings together practical, cultural, and emotional resources to respond to the question – after relocation, how can we begin to find a sense of belonging? Recognizing that the need to belong is, first of all, a need and therefore vital to the health and well-being of all people, no matter who they are or where they come from. Secondly, we recognize the need to belong is complex, diverse, and an ongoing process, one that is never complete, one that is dynamic and changing – perhaps as all needs are.
Given the complexity of belonging, the archive approaches this need and its attendant feelings through multiple paths – it is an expanding directory of practical resources, a potential first point of contact for a refugee to find something they are looking for. Current categories include shelter, provisions, legal/rights, health, employment and education – these categories will grow and evolve with the archive. Equally the website focusses on Glasgow and London – with a plan to expand to Berlin, Athens, Lisbon and other key sites.