About UMW
Justice, equality and solidarity — led by migrant communities.
Unity of Migrant Workers is a Hackney-based charity supporting migrant workers, refugees and their families since 2021.
About Us
Who we are & what we stand for.
Unity of Migrant Workers (UMW) is a community-led organisation based in Hackney, London. We have been actively supporting migrant workers, refugees and their families since 2021, and became a registered charity in April 2025 (Charity No. 1213132).
Founded by people with lived experience of migration, UMW exists to challenge inequality and build inclusive communities where everyone can belong. Our work is shaped by the real needs of our community and guided by our core values of justice, equality and solidarity.
Since 2021, we have delivered free and low-cost activities that support learning, wellbeing and social connection. We provide safe, welcoming spaces where people can build confidence, develop skills and feel at home in their community.
What We Do
Support that makes a real difference.
Education & Skills
We run practical English classes, training sessions and workshops that help people gain confidence, improve everyday communication and strengthen employability.
Community, Culture & Wellbeing
We deliver inclusive activities including children's art classes, music lessons, film screenings and cultural events. Our wellbeing offer includes yoga, pilates and boxing sessions supporting physical wellbeing.
Advice, Support & Advocacy
We organise community panels and workshops on migrant rights, housing, employment, and mental health awareness and wellbeing signposting, and provide trusted guidance and signposting in a safe and supportive environment.
Our programmes are open to all, with a particular focus on migrant and refugee communities facing social and economic disadvantage.
Our Mission
Standing alongside migrant workers
Our mission is to stand alongside migrant workers, refugees and their families by addressing the challenges they face in daily life. We work to reduce barriers such as language exclusion, isolation and inequality, while creating opportunities for growth, participation and belonging.
Through education, community support, cultural activities and advocacy, we strengthen people's skills, confidence and voices.
Our Vision
Dignity, respect and fairness for all
We believe in a society where migrant workers, refugees and their families are treated with dignity, respect and fairness.
Our vision is of inclusive communities where everyone — regardless of background — has equal opportunities to learn, connect and contribute.
The difference we make
Real stories, measurable outcomes.
See what practical support looks like in practice — outcome cards, community stories, and how we track change.
Our Values
What we believe in.
Equity & Inclusion
Ensuring equal access and opportunity for all
Empowerment
Supporting people to grow in confidence and independence
Solidarity
Standing together with migrant communities
Dignity & Respect
Valuing every individual
Community-Led
Listening, learning and acting together
Transparency & Trust
Working openly, ethically and responsibly
Team & Trustees
The people behind UMW.
We're working on this section — full team and trustee profiles are coming soon.
Get in touch in the meantime →Transparency
Our policies
Our governing policies are available to download. These cover our commitments to the communities we serve, our staff and our funders.
Equality & Diversity Policy(PDF)
Our commitment to treating every person with dignity and respect, and to building a workplace and community free from discrimination.
Safeguarding Policy (Children and Adults at Risk)(PDF)
How we protect the safety and wellbeing of children and vulnerable adults who use our services or engage with our organisation.
Data Protection Policy(PDF)
How we collect, store, and handle personal data in line with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
Health & Safety Policy(PDF)
Our responsibilities and procedures for maintaining a safe environment for staff, volunteers, and the people we support.
Financial Records and Accounts Policy(PDF)
Our approach to financial management, record-keeping, and accountability to ensure responsible stewardship of charitable funds.
PDFs are hosted on our current website while we complete the migration. If you have difficulty accessing any document, please contact us and we will send it to you directly.