Celebrating Refugee Week in Blackburn and Darwen: Opus Broadband Joins the Journey of Hope and Unity
Refugee Week is a time for reflection, solidarity, and celebration. It provides a platform for communities across the UK to honour the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. This year in Blackburn and Darwen, the week began with a moving and meaningful opening event hosted by Kairos Housing, in partnership with D.A.R.E and the IMO Charity. Opus Broadband was proud to attend and support the occasion, underscoring our shared commitment to bridging the digital divide and helping refugees feel connected, empowered, and welcomed.
A Community United
Held at a vibrant community space, the opening event captured the very essence of Refugee Week: compassion, culture, and connection. Refugees and supporters gathered to share stories, talents, and traditions. Attendees were treated to a powerful poem written and performed by a local refugee—a heartfelt expression of loss, hope, and belonging. This was followed by a moving short film, also created and directed by refugees, which documented their personal journeys and the new lives they are building in Blackburn.
Both the poem and the film served as a poignant reminder of the courage and determination it takes to leave behind everything familiar in search of safety. These creative expressions allowed the audience to see beyond the label of “refugee” and into the lived experiences of individuals, families, and communities trying to start anew.
Food, Music, and Shared Experiences
No celebration is complete without food and music, and the event delivered on both fronts. A selection of dishes from across the globe—cooked by refugees themselves—invited guests to experience the diverse cultures now woven into the fabric of Blackburn and Darwen. From spicy curries to rich pastries, the food was more than just sustenance—it was a shared language that brought everyone together.
Live music, ranging from traditional instruments to modern acoustic performances, set a joyful and welcoming tone. The atmosphere was one of unity and shared purpose—exactly what Refugee Week is meant to foster.
Opus Broadband’s Role: Ending the Digital Divide
At Opus Broadband, we know that true integration and empowerment depend on access to essential tools—including digital connectivity. In today’s world, being online is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Access to broadband opens doors to education, employment, healthcare, and community support. For refugees trying to rebuild their lives, it’s a vital link to opportunity and independence.
We work in close partnership with organisations like Kairos Housing, D.A.R.E, and IMO Charity to provide free broadband access to those most in need. By supporting digital inclusion, we aim to remove one of the many barriers refugees face when adapting to life in a new country. Our presence at the event reaffirmed this mission and allowed us to connect with the very individuals and communities we aim to serve.
A Message of Hope
Refugee Week is more than an event—it’s a movement of understanding, respect, and shared humanity. Blackburn and Darwen have shown what’s possible when communities come together to welcome and uplift those seeking safety. We were honoured to take part in this year’s opening celebration and to witness first-hand the strength and spirit of those who have come so far.
At Opus Broadband, we believe in a future where no one is left behind—digitally or otherwise. As we continue to support our partners and the incredible individuals they serve, we remain committed to turning that belief into action.
“Having a digital connection is key “
“Reducing digital poverty is high our list having an internet connection allows our users to access more support and training.”
How can you get a referral for a FREE Broadband connection
We want to donate broadband to the digitally excluded who really need it. We can only do it with your help, if you are part of a local council, housing association, school or community group. Get in touch today through the link below.