Understanding the isolation and loneliness experienced by refugees

We all might have felt lonely and isolated at times, especially during the Coronavirus pandemic, and we know how difficult it can be.

These activities help learners to understand isolation from a refugee's perspective; learn what inclusion, exclusion, integration, and segregation mean and how feeling lonely can affect a person's experiences and what they could do to help someone feel less alone. 

Suitable for secondary school aged students (12 to 18). 

Learning objectives

Learners will:

• develop an understanding of what inclusion, exclusion, integration, and segregation mean  
• reflect on the differences and similarities they might have with a person with refugee status   
• learn how the experience of being excluded or included can affect a person, and particularly those with refugee status  
• explore how friendship can help us to be inclusive 

Resource overview

1. Mind map: what does isolation feel like?

Use this mind map activity to explore the meaning of isolation with learners 

2. In and out groups

Using shapes and a grouping activity, help learners to understand the meaning of inclusion, exclusion, integration and segregation  

3. Two sides of the story

Read the story and reflect on the similarities and differences we have with others and how we can understand people better by listening to their stories

4. How can we be more inclusive to refugees?

Explore the role that friendship can have in making people feel included and supported and think of ways you can be more inclusive and show your support for people with refugee experience.

This resource was created by the British Red Cross in May 2021