Loom Lab
Creativity, Culture and Connection for Resettled Families in Birmingham
Loom Lab is a new 12-month programme created by Centrala to support Afghan and Syrian families rebuilding their lives in Birmingham. Running from December 2025 to November 2026, the project offers a rich blend of creative workshops, cultural events, wellbeing sessions and nature-based activities, all designed to nurture confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.
We provide safe, welcoming spaces where individuals and families can relax, express themselves and form meaningful relationships as they settle into their new community.
Many recently resettled families face trauma, language barriers, social isolation and a lack of culturally sensitive community spaces. Women in particular have shared their need for women-friendly activities, opportunities for self-expression and places where children are truly welcomed.
Loom Lab has been shaped directly by these voices. Built on Centrala’s long-standing relationships with resettled communities and extensive experience delivering trauma-informed, multilingual programmes, the project places care, culture and creativity at its heart.
We’ll offer:
- Creative Activities for Women and Children: Monthly arts, crafts and storytelling workshops supported with multilingual resources in Dari, Pashto and Arabic.
Weekly gentle yoga and mindfulness sessions provide trauma-informed relaxation, movement and emotional support in a women-and-children-only environment. - Family Nature Walks: Monthly walks along local canal routes and nearby green spaces help families explore their surroundings, build confidence in navigating their area and enjoy time together outdoors.
- Cultural Events: Every two months, we host cultural gatherings featuring music, poetry, storytelling and dance, offering opportunities to share heritage and connect with the wider community.
- Creative Mentoring: One-to-one or small-group mentoring is available for participants wishing to develop their artistic skills further, supporting individual growth and pathways into Birmingham’s cultural life.
- A Final Celebration: The programme culminates in a showcase during Refugee Week 2026, bringing together artworks, performances and cultural displays created across the year.
Through Loom Lab, we aim to:
- Celebrate and preserve cultural heritage by supporting Afghan and Syrian communities to explore and share their art and traditions.
- Foster integration through meaningful cultural exchange.
- Encourage active cultural participation by providing safe, welcoming platforms for creative expression.
- Develop skills and confidence, helping individuals grow artistically and personally.
- Support identity and cultural adjustment, particularly for children and young people navigating culture shock.
- Strengthen community bonds through shared creative and cultural activities.
- Amplify marginalised voices, helping challenge stereotypes surrounding migrants and refugees.
Loom Lab is funded by Birmingham City Council