The Queen’s Film Theatre (QFT) has opened its doors to the refugee and asylum seeker community in Belfast through the Refugees Welcome at QFT initiative, an inclusive project offering free monthly cinema screenings designed to foster cultural connection, wellbeing and community belonging.

Launched in partnership with community organisations including Embrace NI and Belfast City of Sanctuary, the project offers 20 free tickets each month to films chosen collaboratively from QFT’s public programme. A special winter-themed family screening took place in December, complete with refreshments.

Since its launch, the project has welcomed approximately 100 attendees, with some returning regularly to enjoy the films and connect with others. Each screening offers a shared cultural experience and a warm environment that encourages interaction and participation in public life, which are important steps in easing isolation and supporting the mental wellbeing of those newly arrived in Northern Ireland.

Looking ahead, QFT aims to work more closely with refugee and asylum seeker communities in co-programming future film events, creating opportunities for Q&A sessions, cultural discussions and screenings that reflect the stories and experiences of displaced communities.

At the recent CiviContribution Celebration event on 27th May, project organiser Ellen Reay spoke on a panel highlighting the initiative’s development and social impact:

"This project isn’t just about free cinema tickets, it’s about recognition, inclusion and building bridges with our new neighbours, through shared cultural spaces."

Through this simple yet powerful model, Refugees Welcome at QFT demonstrates how arts institutions can meaningfully support intercultural dialogue, civic culture and community wellbeing in an increasingly diverse Belfast.