Friends International in Guildford

"Friends International has been a fantastic experience for me, one I will remember my whole life. I feel part of the big international family!" Grace, China

There are unique challenges for anyone arriving to study in the UK. Friends International is a Christian charity that aims to support non-UK students in building friendships with other students, making local links with families, and exploring life in the UK.

We organise events, experiences, and social meet-ups to help students learn about and participate in British culture to get the most out of their time here. We welcome and respect internationals from other faith and no-faith backgrounds, highlighting any Christian content in events to allow people to opt in or out. Christian internationals can connect with the local churches in Guildford through our volunteers and partners. We also offer training and support for students, volunteers, churches, and university staff to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural interactions.

What do students say?

"This group has provided me with a wonderful experience as an international student here. I know this group is a Christianity faith group, but I appreciate its idea of including all regardless of their religion, background, country and ethnicity..." Jeet, India

"I got the chance to share not only delicious meals, but also Christmas and trips to other cities around the UK. I was even asked to share part of my culture with a salsa lesson! I am forever grateful for all the time shared and all the willingness I found with personal and academic support during the times I found life in the UK tough..." Melissa, Costa Rica

"I was a little afraid of meeting new people, especially the British, because I was not accustomed to the British accent and culture at that time. But the people I met at Friends International were so nice and made me comfortable!..." Songlim, S. Korea

Can you help us continue working with and supporting international students in Guildford?

Why £18,000?

We aim to keep our events and activities accessible to all and rely on the generosity of others to enable the work to continue. We have been able to grow the staff team and what we have to offer in Guildford through the generosity of a legacy. £18,000 is the deficit we are currently working with. We are looking to sustain this growth further and need your help! Your one-off gift here will enable us to continue to serve internationals in the town of Guildford.

How long are you fundraising for?

As a charity we are continually seeking partners to support the work. £18,000 is the deficit for one year so this fundraiser will be running for a year but will continue to be a deficit in the future without regular donations. If you would prefer to contribute monthly to sustain our work long-term, please go to www.friendsinternational.uk/give.

How is your money spent? Here are some of the ways in which we support students:

For more information on who we are and what we do in Guildford, please go to our website: www.friendsinternationalguildford.org.uk

Thank you so much for your support and for being a part of welcoming international students into the UK.

Please note:

The funding for this fundraiser is specifically for Friends International in Guildford though 12% of all funds will go towards the administration costs of Friends International Ministries.