9: Conclusions and Implications – Developing Policy, Practice and Research with and for Migrant and Refugee Women

In this final chapter, the key implications for policy, practice and research that have emerged from the preceding chapters are outlined. These implications emerge from the key arguments developed throughout the book from the research data. The chapter argues for an integrated model of practice for community work with refugee and migrant women that recognises their intersectional identities, experiences and oppressions. The research demonstrates that an integrated, bottom-up approach is successful in engaging isolated women and for facilitating their integration and empowerment. Within this, opportunities for English language learning and mental health support are key, alongside the development of knowledge capital and social solidarity. This is best supported by a balanced model of community development, that both responds to needs and recognises assets in its support of marginalised groups. Empowerment was found to be a long-term process with the qualitative data demonstrating that it first becomes manifested in aspirational goals before tangible and sustainable change are achieved over time.