Centre for Youn Refu ees and Mi rants Annual Rep.ort 202.5
Dost Centre for Young Refugees and Migrants Newham Leisure Centre
281 Prince Regent Lane London, E13 8SD
www.dostcentre.co.uk Tel: 07852855711 Insta: dost_centre Charity Number: 1173622
Welcome from the Board Welcome from the Board
Welcome to the 2024/25 Annual Report for Dost Centre for Young Refugees and Migrants. During this period, demand for support has evolved in the face of a challenging political climate; Dost’s commitment to its’ core mission became even more important: providing a safe, supportive space for activities and services to empower and equip young people from a refugee and migrant background, from all over London, to reach their full potential and to feel included within society.
The number of young people forced to leave their home countries has continued to grow, with many arriving in the UK alone, without family or friends, overcoming unimaginable migration journeys.
Sadly, the political narrative against migration has continued to grow even more hostile, with targeted protests at hotels, the symbolic raising of the British flag and the growing voice of far-right groups becoming more present in the mainstream, creating an intimidating and unsafe environment where young refugees and migrants are feeling excluded and at risk.
This has accentuated the importance of what the Dost Centre offers. A home. A family. A place where young people can feel safe and supported. When you read the testimonies in this report, you can hear the transformative impact that Dost Centre has had on these young people’s lives.
Marian, the staff and the volunteer team are true change makers and as the Board of Trustees, we couldn’t be more proud of the wonderful work the team does. Work that has seen the incredible Marian, the Director, awarded an MBE, recognising the extraordinary work and advocacy she continues to do. No one is more deserving of such an honour.
Our twice-weekly youth club sport sessions have seen us find a new home at Shipman Youth Zone, as well as continuing to deliver sessions at Newham Leisure Centre which provide the chance for young people to connect and meet like minded peers. Our huge range of trips provide unique cultural experiences to help connect young people with each other and their new country and our range of exciting residentials build resilience and confidence.
Our English lessons and project-based learning build skills and qualifications to help young people in their future pursuits.
We also hear about the value of our programme from our vested stakeholders: carers, local services and partners.
They testify to the vital lifeline that Dost Centre offers, helping young people feel a sense of belonging.
We continue to strengthen our funding streams, securing more grants, in-kind partnerships and individual donors, helping secure our financial sustainability.
We are incredibly grateful to all of these funders and supporters because without them, this work simply wouldn’t be possible.
We aim to continue pushing boundaries, showing flexibility and dynamism in an ever changing climate, making sure we continue to preserve our mission of supporting our young people through fun and inspiring activities.
We hope you enjoy this report, which is a tribute to their strengths and an invitation for continued collaboration as we work towards a more inclusive, compassionate future and we welcome anyone who would like to work in partnership to achieve this or to help fund our future programmes. Thank you - Tommy Edwards - Trustee since 2018 Thank you - Tommy Edwards - Trustee since 2018 On behalf of the Board of Trustees On behalf of the Board of Trustees
Welcome from the Director Welcome from the Director
2025 has been another busy year at Dost with 232 sessions and 455 young people taking part in the programme.I We have continued to provide a wide variety of sessions and activities to cater to as many young people as possible and to provide choice and opportunities at all levels of engagement with Dost.
In May 2025, we moved to Shipman Youth Zone to run our English Class and one of our weekly Youth Club sports sessions.
This has allowed us to offer more activities due to the facilities at the centre - we can do cooking sessions and offer hot food, we can use the gym and do boxing sessions, we can run workshops, such as sexual health and substance misuse sessions and can do art and creative sessions, such as film making.
In the future, we also have options to use other spaces in the centre and do different activities. As it’s a more sociable space, we’ve also been able to get to know the young people better and for them to spend time with each other, away from the football pitch or sports hall.
This year we have also done cooking courses with two local organisations, which have helped the young people to learn new cooking skills, to help them become more independent.
As always, we have gone on a lot of day trips and residentials! These opportunities really allow the young people to experience the postive aspects of being in the UK; to learn about their new country; to respect and appreciate others, to develop new skills and to feel a real sense of belonging, whilst being able to grow in a safe space. I was humbled and very surprised to receive an MBE in June, from King Charles III and was very glad that three of the young people came with me to Buckingham Palace to recieve my award. (as it was quite a nerve wracking experience and way out my comfort zone!).
Every year, Dost changes and develops a little and it’s great to still be on that journey and to see us grow, learn and adapt alongside the young people who attend.
Thanks to all the staff, trustees, volunteers, funders and partners who make it all possible and thanks to all the young people who make it fun and never boring and who give us a reason to keep going!
- Marian Spiers, MBE, Director- Marian Spiers, MBE, Director since June 2009 since June 2009
Dost: (which means friend in a number of languages); Pashtu, Dari, Hindi, Urdu), was established as an independent Charity in 2017.
Our Aims Our Aims SE in en Peo a che ks a me b. + a ok a ,
Our aim is to advance in life and relieve the needs of young people from a refugee and migrant background and those seeking asylum.
We work with around 500 young people a year; aged 13-19 years of age, from all across London; to help them feel empowered and equipped to reach their full potential. We do this by providing a varied and diverse programme of physical and educational activities in order to reduce their isolation, improve physical and mental well-being and increase their skills, their access to opportunities and to develop capacities and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as independent, mature and responsible individuals and ensure they are not excluded on the grounds of their social and economic position.
2025 Our Impact in 2025 Our Impact in 455 Young People 455 Young People 253 new young people 253 new young people 439 Male 439 Male 16 Female 16 Female 6565 Individual Attendances 6565 Individual Attendances 232 Sessions 232 Sessions
60 Nationalities 60 Nationalities
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Bangladesh 12
South Sudan
12
Ethiopia 13
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Senegal '
14
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Nigeria
16
Syria 21
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Afghanistan ‘i = i <4 24 .-
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Somalia
25
Eritrea
33
Sudan
136
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
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89 Youth Club 89 Youth Club ® No! SEN JAY Ok! we Sessions Sessions 41 Day Trips 41 Day Trips 50 English 50 English am ow Classes Classes GUC : wey eID 20 Bike 20 Bike Referrals Referrals 6 Residentials 6 Residentials 21 days away 21 days away | cy a‘ | : »\ — 4 19 Breadwinners 19 Breadwinners 9 Jack Petchey 9 Jack Petchey[es] e=[ZAM] ly SS =|y Award Winners Award Winners Graduates Graduates
6 Residentials in 2025 6 Residentials in 2025
! DANyey AY dumb Lue at Mae Neth) Wy 7) Sy PP Vd Xe : February - 3 days at Hindleap Warren, East Grinstead- 14 young people February - 3 days at Hindleap Warren, East Grinstead- 14 young people May - 4 days at Wey Island Trust, Addlestone - 14 young people May - 4 days at Wey Island Trust, Addlestone - 14 young people y wy y; AS (Cet July - 2 days at Wey Island Trust, Addlestone - 15 young people July - 2 days at Wey Island Trust, Addlestone - 15 young people ’ — ~ 4 Pte tA FSiai ry SR ft ‘ y “as,Phae £ atMe 7) nNL4 a RN 7 \ iy? SUR i riN Ae eaeny Ley CA Wee be July - 3 days at Woodrow High House, Amersham - 25 young people July - 3 days at Woodrow High House, Amersham - 25 young people August - 5 days at the Quadrangle, Kent - 18 young people August - 5 days at the Quadrangle, Kent - 18 young people December - 3 days at the Quadrangle, Kent - 17 young people December - 3 days at the Quadrangle, Kent - 17 young people
‘ : 41 41 Day Trips in 2025 2025 Day Trips in
Ice-skating Football Tournaments Basketball Tournaments Football Matches Theatre Trips Boat Trips Paddleboarding Speedboating Brighton Eastbourne Beachy Head BMX’ing Swimming Waterpark Cinema 10 Pin Bowling Restuarants Water Wipeout Watching Football Matches Southend Pleasure Beach Supercar Event F1 Driving Arcade London Zoo Outdoor Sauna
Let Let’s hear from the young people! ’ ! s hear from the young people
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“My name is Fthawi. I come to Dost because it’s a friendly and welcoming place
where I can meet new people and learn new things.
I like that everyone here is kind and supportive — it feels like a small community.
I especially enjoy talking with friendly people, playing football, and sometimes
learning about fun activities like ice skating.
Dost is important because it gives young people a safe space to connect, grow,
and be themselves.
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I also want to say thank you to my teacher, Marian, who is kind, patient, F ; : and always ready to help. Re ie ; gaat ‘ GL ES ae al cn Pe ari’ She makes learning enjoyable and encourages everyone to do their best. rN * ‘ Ses pring he . “as ; : 2 Peers far SP Geared, Dost has made a big difference in my life, and I’m really glad to be part of it.” ¢ : ; ‘ iS aie pee eeeetaten ae : ro Here g : TGP imcock 2 Socio gS sph bah eea ee ee _ Ee ere sete PS fob =) : . 07: aR eae soe ce, t ; edie ae ee Pane - 2% = rd 1G eae Pas vee “ F, Eritrea, Aged 19 S Fantoad, , : abe oh Reape areal po aea ee ea ee eae : i 3 eee Se oy hoe? ais . : ita pes a eS ed aa) 28 ae ty Le reOOP ede pine ech ae 81 attendances, since June 2025 Jack Petchey Award Winner September 2025
“I like coming to Dost because it’s friendly and welcoming. We get to go on nice trips, eat out, and do lots of activities, which I really enjoy. Dost is important to me because it gives support and a place to feel part of a community. I’m really thankful for everything Dost does.” D, Eritrea, Aged 17
94 attendances since January 2025 Jack Petchey Award Winner 2025
ty bat re. ASG” uel Monge ietat Wwkig\ t pg a Aga ay . | er , “Dost is important because it helps me learn English. oS * rs ‘ * ad ah Fy tj a a. c % ™ re a wo RET The people they are very nice. ETN ot | ti ne Ne oy toe A, Ong’ eee ene MRR SRP Rs GRC hy Me Me GR ae Set SS 9? pee GET (bers aay 5 | gee te oe we eae Se A he a oa ws ee. pe vp I like to be with them always. ENS.deoe & omy+A opToe : > lem“aSSa aeWf 3) ipa se “ate hesat 2,re, Si, ataLhe a ooohOr1S i oy 2 SehrPr ©AV Resetnees as Me Joesoe seeNe ae Soest Ne Jeelee oe Bye ey > F, : . Ra hp Bee ae ae fy A ae nh \ wet > I like football. I like trips. I like teachers. , i oe J AN Bey Af \ ek | fy ‘ A igs a core = Ma a VaaeNSpage aFe| 1 Arex e “tT, Newith Marian she helps me with everything. < eeYahNiY NeatNiky t anPRSyeCA hoa4 | ia.veSadeSSip Cigferalsa7 hay a pe#iy anae, _ J pegMeaara , Lfigpare dia “01.BMYre pleatxy eepeadehMT aeeer:«i78 = saeroms,Feefia aw«iy, (pee: a oy , ’ nae i: fa ah ‘ ve ; far. s ; “ Po Ay v an fog eefkaeey Before I came here I didn’t know anything Fay i al) ieTS ba : wens — Lame. ; o } erage S bee ta fe s tpl ee!ATA 5 ShSe Pell Rt | about this country. |pth -stag7 "Na:re a Maef f erhei” aZ : SY aay be ae a al . ii ¢ ff “hh J” en salty a eran it naha Pare ou hy ‘ / eh Se ! ie af nt ie aire LPs a ‘ s ir)a5 Ptyee te aah r My.oe When I came I learnt a lot of things. VaateA Et re I Ln ey Se!eS <4: 2cr ro5.4 eeBONES"“ ‘a: us “ruSpreeae ag!eT kb.eaeae aSe i eeog net a e/ mo as m ots By, L -Aben hs Patiye. NVR e347 fee th. Sezai Ue, Sen ' Wo tee Par f if. y —.-. at % ifr I didn’t have a place to yi, i:t e.!i 4, 7! aPac. Aaa \y! ae‘me ADDs. ) ft {me tae ia Soe ee ay : _ uw, | Ri. fs QL AUN A janBM eee aiaX, aers play before. j ete : = ety, ‘ aa 29 mh : ae 4 ae oej vrMy f| 4 ady i} Pra)i Na z os.Searg Jee — Pi ‘ ’eitr, ¢3y se Bee= — : * V3 . = We Pra 5 : ‘Pek ra ee ie ie ‘iit . tf > %& eee oe aeGy aay . iee7 5S ns r es,hae eyFF . poe. ateae I like the food also!” try Meeed (gBheGoetheAry ‘hilets ‘ a ey“ae ‘et Bay “ Pe oh 7 So wets is £ : gushes 2." ee | ey i 1 HOG ee, Poh cof NE a ee 5 ee Ml Pe * wee | e shee £45 b" : a fith 4 EN eat X leo CR Wee % r CBr. Oy ae EE VASA CIRC SEAN S Pai eee pe ee oy Yz a a 2 Se aoe nee Ae Sona k,. pe.4 aCe, sa re Mea = e eee) eae oes a ere fe Ba Oe i PE ae ei hie leg st =I ee = a. ie ep Yt! oe a. 4 i « be ; st Gass a iT Fleeon Milge pie Eee eS M, Sudan, Aged 17 KTi aye’ a i Ly, = ie eae REE Oa aes ge eet to ie ee, oe ie Sf s \e y ig) Lames WE ' ‘ po Peas Mes ’ EAE = IY aAR a, oe iia ig eo sv i mgs Fe mm at nt 5 ae BA 4 wate he 1) ee es ep - . ig Trag ae ne StS. Rie ee oe pe ' vA Ki ee ee os “tu Mame Me, eas Soademiiny preted? Caner sat ntSS See nae + a 7 Pe eg, Sat ee eee Soe in ee e a Bo ae agepe a—“ +sOS eke‘a Bege Salta ul flee aa43 Mae,» aeHe,4 e4) eure 47] vom ag 18 ees { a aa ee a ae ee ere oS’ BAR NES @ rs oe 171 attendances since April 2024 wingf i TikeoS a PS a) ee mat Ea ee 3 Jack Petchey Award Winner October 2024 on PA o* | nk a i 3 Bas Y = Ten aera,= ae hsUa iL Be"ye, a> Fey9 aiy a ;fe | apeas
“I’m really happy and I’m always proud of Dost because I learnt more things. I learn how to be a friend with a different people and how to cook. Play football - I did a lot of exercise I couldn’t did it when I was in my country.
In holiday, we used to go outside London trip, also we visit many places areas in the UK. I’m really happy for that special Marian, she’s always take care of us, show us the good way, that we can live with a different people, respect, kindness.” A, South Sudan, Aged 17
95 attendances, since March 2025 Jack Petchey Award Winner September 2025
Let Let’s hear from Staff/ Volunteers! ’s hear from Staff/ Volunteers!
“I’m not the first and probably won’t be the last person to say that Dost is like family. Marian’s warm arms welcome all young people without judgement. And it doesn’t take long for the them to feel a sense of belonging - especially important when you consider the trauma they may have faced in the young lives. But that’s not all. Dost is also interesting, educational and great fun! Marian works extremely hard to provide an incredible range of activities for the young people.
My main role with Dost is to support the young people with English language learning in a weekly drop-in class. Often the young people who come to the class aren’t yet in education, so crucially Dost can often provide the first opportunity for them to learn English. I feel proud to be part of the Dost family. As a language teacher I hope I give the young people the confidence to continue to learn English in order to feel settled and happy in the the UK. And as a Londoner, I hope that I represent some of what’s positive and good about my city.”
Kelly Williams, ESOL Tutor since 2019
My Story at Dost
“The first time I came to Dost was in 2021, soon after I arrived in this country. I asked my social worker if there was a place where I could spend time with young people, play, and do activities. That’s how I found Dost. When I first came, I didn’t know anyone, but very quickly I met other young people, played sports, and joined in lots of exercises and activities. I remember feeling nervous at the beginning, but Dost gave me a safe space to meet friends and feel part of a community. Since then, I’ve been involved in many different things — football, trips, English classes, and youth club sessions. Each time I come, I learn something new and enjoy myself. Dost has helped me so much: I’ve improved my English, I’ve made good friends, and I’ve built confidence. For me, Dost is more than a club — it feels like family. By nature, I like to help people. I don’t need a reason — I simply enjoy giving my time and support, and it makes me happy. Every time I help someone, I feel joy inside. I don’t only help at Dost — I like to help people everywhere. It’s just part of who I am. Volunteering gives me a chance to live this out and to share kindness with others. I’m also inspired by Marian. She helps so many people freely, without expecting anything back. She is always smiling, friendly, and caring — like a mother to everyone. Seeing her happiness makes me want to be like her: happy, giving, and full of love for people. That’s why I enjoy volunteering. It’s not only about helping others, but also about becoming a happier person myself. PF ath I decided to volunteer at Dost because Dost has helped me in so many ways. When I first came here, they gave me time, support, and a safe t place to grow. That meant a lot to me, and now I want to give something back. I like to help people, and I enjoy being there for others the same way Dost was there for me. Volunteering gives me the chance to support young people, share my time, and make a difference. For me, it’s not only about giving back, but also about the joy of helping others. Every time I volunteer, I feel happy and proud to be part of the Dost family.
As a volunteer at Dost, I take part in the Monday and Thursday sessions.
I help prepare food and drinks for the young people, * support activities, and make sure everyone feels welcome at the centre.
I also join trips — sometimes outside London or during the summer — where I help Marian and the team. On trips, I might prepare food, support the young people, or take part in different activities to make sure everything runs smoothly. I’ve also attended meetings and supported in many other small ways around the centre. Overall, I’ve done a lot of different things, and I want to continue helping in the future wherever I can.
Volunteering at Dost has helped me in many ways. By joining the Monday and Thursday sessions, football tournaments, special celebrations, and trips — even the longer 4–5 day trips — I’ve learned so much. It has improved my skills, like writing and communication, and given me more confidence. I’ve also built stronger friendships and feel part of a community.
Most of all, volunteering makes me happy.
Helping others gives me energy, and I feel proud to give my time back to the place that has supported me.” Adis, 19, Young Person to Volunteer, to Trustee 2021 - Present
“October 2024 I casually found Dost online, searching for a placement as an erasmus trainee. (coming to London for 3 months from Italy). First on my course ever doing this, I didn't really know what I was going to do and what to expect. On the other side being able to be full time and to observe and learn, to be part of the team and to engage in youth work.. was news!
Starting in July I found myself a bit lost in this new reality.
Big chaotic city, a different environment, different challenges, and all the little things that make you feel uncomforable in a new place. I felt overwhelmed and not able to make it. But the fear and sense of discomfort were swept away with time at Dost, thanks to all the people that make it the wonderful reality it is.
From Marian that has been an amazing mentor and example, to the staff and volunteers that made me part of the team from the beginning and to all the young people that shared experiences and connected with me. In the end the longing of home became a desire to stay ot 7? # c = ~~ and spend more time together.
I think that is what Dost is: a comfortable space of being, with ourselves and with others; a safe space where you can share, connect and also be brave and vulnerable. During three months I have been all around with Dost, tried new activities, visited many places, met lots of people and got to know some of them better, learned words in different languages (also taught some of the Italian ones), practiced English, shared thoughts, skills and uniqueness of cultures and personalities. I have learned lots about a different reality educational-wise, but most of all I have learnt and shared from being present to one another, by being close to each other.
I can't be more happy to have been in Dost and to have created bonds and relationships built to last. This is only a ciao, not a goodbye, as I have seen is for all the people that came to Dost.”
Chiara Giudici, Erasmus Student July - September 2025
“I'm from Sudan and a mother of two sons, aged 12 and 14. Upon arriving in Newham, I received incredible support and respect from the local community, which filled me with deep gratitude and the desire to give back. Special thanks go to Emad, (Dost football coach), who encouraged me to involve my children in Dost and that inspired my volunteering journey. My bond with the organisation grew as I witnessed the happiness of all the boys. I truly feel they are my children, no different from my own sons. Although I have little to offer, volunteering became my way of saying thank you, and I became part of a wonderful team supporting migrant youth, where the atmosphere is full of warmth, positivity, and inspiration. Dost will proudly remain in our memories as one of the happiest and most joyful experiences I have lived, giving my children and me laughter-filled moments, and every day we spend there adds a beautiful memory to our lives; it is not just a place for fun, but a place of belonging and safety that we will always cherish in our hearts. Marian is like an angel in her kindness and care, making the experience even more meaningful. Here I feel part of a big family. My skills grow day by day, and my heart is filled with joy and pride through this remarkable experience.”
With love.
Rawia Yousef, Volunteer - June 2025 to present
“2025 has demonstrated how fast the world around us is changing, ranging from natural disasters, conflicts, displacement, rapid shifts political sentiment and the unrelenting barrage of 'questionable' news, to name but a few. Much like a turbulent and stormy sea, we find ourselves with our cohorts navigating these waves and tumultuous conditions with one another hopeful to survive, to find calmer waters in the figmental boat we find ourselves aboard, attempting to make sense and establish comfort within the uncertainty.
Amongst the strong winds and thrashing rain we see in the distance, a literal ray of light, guiding and illuminating. The lighthouse, tattered and torn, weathered and worn, yet steadfast in its ultimate objective, a beacon to light the way to safe harbour and to warn of the hazards that lie in waiting, like Rocky shorelines. Much like 'Dost Centre for Young Refugees and Migrants', the lighthouse stands as an enduring metaphor, that even in the darkest circumstances, a light can be found to lead you home.
I have purposefully likened Dost to a lighthouse as the Dost team, (staff and volunteers) have demonstrated 'Guidance and Direction', providing a clear and consistent path. 'Safety and Security', offering a safe space to deal with life's challenges. 'Resilient and Steadfast' enduring where other clubs may fall short, inspiring hope through their resilience to weather any challenge. 'Guidance', the hope they offer is the ability to avoid disaster and navigate around obstacles successfully.
This I have witnessed first hand to no end during my attendance at Dost in 2025. This annual report is an opportunity for me to acknowledge Dost and the magical people that make it happen. I am honoured and humbled to be surrounded by and work closely alongside these wonderful people (especially one of whom deservedly received an MBE this year 😉🤫 ). To have finally met them is like a solar eclipse... Very rare...But ALWAYS special!"
Carl Reyes, Volunteer to Staff Carl Reyes, Volunteer to Staff 2022 - present 2022 - present
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Let’s hear from the Board! Let’s hear from the Board!
“In a world where we are inundated with endless news cycles, Dost continues to be a beacon of hope.
ee er 2 ee Winnie Sham betes = 5 fe en aeee oeoe; ae oemeee & = eee a eee ————em | 7 i a ge ee ee ne i a eeRae eeeee aie = 3 eSss Sy, SG mee Trustee since 2022
As a trustee, I'm proud of what our organisation stands for, as an antidote to an increasingly polarized discourse on immigration, migration and asylum. Youth Club sessions, English classes, residential trips, and much more - these activities allow young people to just be themselves. Marian, staff, and volunteers have delivered again. What's more, Marian was awarded an MBE this year for her outstanding work with young people, a truly special recognition of her dedication to youth work. Congratulations to Marian, and well done everyone!”
I
“As a trustee of the Dost Centre for Young Refugees and Migrants, I’m constantly inspired by the resilience and optimism of the young people we support. Dost's work is so special - the activities, space and support create a genuine sense of belonging, which has never been more vital than in these times of aggression and fear being stirred up across the country. Being part of a team that helps young people feel valued and to realise their potential is a privilege, and it reminds me every day why community and compassion truly matter in our society.”
Bejal Shah Bejal Shah Trustee since 2023 Trustee since 2023
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Let Let’s hear from partners/ funders! ’s hear from partners/ funders!
“Shine/All East have been involved with Dost for many years now and have most recently provided monthly drop in sessions.
In 2025 we also delivered workshops at the Quadrangle residential in partnership with the Specialist Children & Young People's Services (ELFT).
During the residential at The Quadrangle, young people participated in interactive, translated, Relationships and Sex Education workshops. They were able to reflect on, develop and share their perspectives on healthy relationships. They also gained a lot of factual information to bring them up to scratch with the mandatory Relationships and Sex Education curriculum in the UK. Condoms, c-cards and STI screens were offered to help the young people, and their partners to stay safe and healthy. Engagement was fantastic. I think participants had a lot of fun. At monthly drop-ins, the young people take part in educational activities and basic sexual health provision. They are becomming more familiar with NHS sexual health services, and we are slowly but surely reducing stigma and misinformation.
I am always met with infectious smiles, handshakes and a real appreciation for what I am offering at the stall. It has been a joy to work with such a lovely group of truly inspirational young people. Working with Dost is a real pleasure and a beautiful experience.”
Madeleine Pritchard Shine Outreach Worker, All East Sexual Health Service
"Working with Dost has been a great joy and privilege. We were able to run wellbeing workshops during one of the residential trips. It was humbling and joyful to see what a warm and welcoming community Dost has created, where every young person feels celebrated and valued."
Dr Helena Kaliniecka ee eea Clinical Psychologist with the NHS HIYA (Health & Care Improvement for Young Asylum Seekers) Project
“Dost and the work that Marian leads to support young people is truly inspiring. We first met in 2024, and over the past year have had the pleasure of partnering with them and hosting several of their residential programmes at The Quadrangle – our workshop and retreat space in Kent. The creative and educational programmes have been brilliant: rich, inclusive, and thoughtfully designed to create a sense of belonging, safety, and playfulness for the young people – something so deeply needed for these young refugees and migrants. The Dost team have been a joy to work with, and we very much hope to continue collaborating with them for years to come. We are in awe of the vital and compassionate work they do to support these young people who have already been through so much.”
Jessie Teggin, Director, The Quadrangle
“Visiting Dost earlier this year was an absolute privilege. Their dedication to supporting young refugees and migrants shines through in everything they do. Celebrating their Achievement Award winners at our October medallion ceremony was a truly inspiring moment that reflects the incredible impact they’ve had since joining the scheme in 2003.” Mary Bealt, Grants Officer, Jack Petchey Foundation
“Dost has been such a positive for the young people that I have brought to attend over the years.
Dost is a positive place that allows young people to play sports and socialise, which helps them grow both physically and mentally. Playing sports keeps them active and healthy, teaching them the value of exercise, teamwork, and discipline. It also builds confidence as they learn new skills and achieve goals. The young people are asylum seekers who have all made their way to the UK and have experienced negative things. The young people get to socialise which allows them to make friends, communicate better, and feel part of a community. This can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental wellbeing by giving them a sense of belonging. Finally the staff at Dost are amazing; they ensure all the young people are happy and enjoying themselves, the young people at Supporting Young Futures look forward to every Thursday where they can attend Dost, see the staff, the friends they have made and enjoy playing sports together.”
Troy Richards, Senior Support Worker 2 i” <i 7 4 7 | % - a + . “" sh Supporting Young Futures (SYF) S. . . 4 eee Wie i i M RAs
Our Trustees Our Trustees
Jim Minton - Chair June 2017 - present Michael Havard - Treasurer June 2017 - present Tommy Edwards - Trustee December 2018 - present Stella Ogunlade - Trustee January 2021 - August 2025 Winnie Sham - Trustee June 2022 - present Zoe Mellis - Trustee February 2023 - July 2025 Bejal Shah - Trustee July 2023 - present
Aneesa Ali - Trustee November 2025 - present Noah Leul - Trustee November 2025 - present Adis Birhanu Girma - Trustee November 2025 - present
SCMIRT e aA Our Staff corks ja "y r. 4 ot « Oe Our Staff DI Sar rat
Marian Spiers – Director 2009 – present Richard Shittu - Volleyball Coach/Youth Worker 2010 - present Wendy Lee - Accountant 2018 - present Kelly Williams - ESOL Tutor/ Youth Worker 2019 - present Coltrane Morley-Williams - Football Coach 2019 - Feb 2025 Ali Abbas Alshimari - Football Coach/ Youth Worker 2021 - present Emad Hamid - Football Coach 2022 - present Carl Reyes - Youth Worker 2023 - present Donnell-Andre Roach - April 2025 - Nov 2025
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Our Volunteers [Adis Birhanu Girma]
Our Volunteers
Ahmed Naji
Anei Atem Akoon
Abdalbari Mohamed Emam
bxSS- W ' Charlotte Clements
Chiara Guidici
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#\ Fabrizio Radice
||' George Rutter
\‘ ] / ao Jude Darwich
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Kanan Thiyagarjah
Kazeem Anifowose
Khaled Moqbel
Moath Ali
Mohamed Easa Ahmed Ibrahim
Noah Leul
Rawia Yousef
Rosie Murdoch
Samuel Abraha
Thomas Madrell
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Newham Youth Partnership Vodaphone Charities Connected Nutrition Kitchen Jimmys O2 Buffet Better Moo Canoes MMARAP Estudiantes The Quadrangle Woodrow High House Calling London Gary Huggan Community Sauna Baths Newham Leisure Centre London Zoo London Youth Lewisham Lanes Cadbury HR Owen ph Football United Disney Clockit Boxing PEACH SHINE The Running Charity The London FA
Capital Kids Cricket Counterculture Custom House Library Our Supporters Our Supporters Lee Valley Regional Park Authority Goods for Good and Partners and Partners Newham Libraries Aquapaddle Thames Rib Experience Wey Island Trust Parliament Hill Lido The Bike Project Surrey Hills and Rivers Breadwinners Mouth That Roars Migrant Help Refugee Council Sadlers Wells More Life Home ’ we N r Brighton Table Tennis Club Wholesome Help Mayors Fund for London Thread Ahead CGL NHS HIYA ~~—~~ X Shipman Youth Zone
Our Funders and Donors Our Funders and Donors BBC CHILDREN IN NEED
STORM BRYSON GARY MEEK WILLIAM KRAEMER LEILA DOUZ ARUNAN GUKATHASAN LARA CASALOTTI AND FAMILY FRENCHWOOD FAMILY TRUST LAREB NASEEM
JACK PETCHEY L.B. NEWHAM
UK YOUTH/ PEARS FOUNDATION MIGRATIONWORK TRUST/ WEAVING BONDS OUR NEWHAM LEARNING AND SKILLS/ONLS BRYAN GUINNESS CHARITABLE TRUST - MIGRANT HELP BEPS FUND CELTIC F.C. FOUNDATION PROJECT CASTING LTD CAMDEN GIVING
Charity Structure and Governance Charity Structure and Governance
The Trustees confirm that they have referred to the Guidance contained in the Charity Commissions' general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the Charity's aims and objectives and in planning all future activities.
Dost is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and our governing document is based on the Charity Commission’s model Constitution for a CIO whose only voting members are its' Trustees. We received our independent charity registration and approval for this governing document in August 2017.
In line with the model constitution, we can have a maximum of 12 trustees and a minimum of 5, all of whom must be over 16 years of age. For the period covered by the 2025 Report, we had 7 Trustees from April 2024 till July 2025, when one left and another left in August 2025, then three joined in November 2025. All are over 16 years of age. As we are a small and relatively new charity, (as an independent entity), we have used a variety of mechanisms to recruit trustees, all permitted by our governing document. Trustees may join the Board because they are known to Dost or other trustees or are directly involved in volunteering/ attending Dost or may be recruited through another organisation and all bring an expertise, skill or interest which is helpful to the charity and we aim to have as many people with lived experience leading us, as is possible.
As the charity grows and develops, the trustees may look at other methods for recruitment to match the skills and experience needs of the charity. All trustees are appointed by the Board, with a resolution noted in the minutes, to ensure they have been formally approved. All trustees can nominate and elect to post. Their details are then uploaded onto the Charity Commission database.
- Overview from Chair Overview from Chair
“I’ve been lucky to have been involved in Dost since 2017, when we first became independent and over that time have seen so much positive impact and opportunity for the young people, thanks to the dedication of Marian and her team. Over the past 12 months, as the media and political climate for refugees and migrants has got more confrontational and unwelcoming - which feels at odds with the generosity that most people show to newcomers to London and to their communities more generally, Dost has been an essential source of support for young people through that time, helping them make new friends, build their confidence to speak English, learn new skills and have fun together. It has been great to have the continued support from so many funders, partners and friends through that time. I hope this report gives you a sense of the powerful impact that Dost has every day.”
Jim Minton Chair of the Board since June 2017
Financial Financial
Despite the fact that this is a challenging fundraising environment for all charities, we are pleased that Dost is currently in a position of some financial security, although our income has been considerably less than last year, mostly due to applying for less funding this year.
We do not get any regular statutory funding or have any endowment or guarantor so need to raise all the income we spend each year, whilst trying to build a working reserve. We are hugely grateful to all of our funders, in particular, BBC Children in Need who have continued to support Dost over many years.
Safeguarding Safeguarding
We are proud that despite the challenges and trauma that some young people face, and the pressures that they find themselves under whilst new to London; at Dost they can enjoy the activities and support in safety. Although of course we have instances when young people have picked up small injuries whilst playing sport or other activities, we have had no significant or reportable incidents.
All of our team and trustees are DBS checked every 2 years and receive regular training and refreshers on safeguarding. We have a strong culture of safety and support and keeping young people safe is our highest priority.
Account.s Dost C•ntr• for Young Relu9• and Ml9rnnl 1173622 CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Receipts and payments accounts CC16a ' arAIiTY commS1ON For the perh)d trom 01.Apr-24 31-kl¥i-25 To SctiofiA Section A Receipts and payments 3181 March 25 ErWJ0fitrnt funds Total nd5 funds turKk La•t YWT loth vmr•M£ SS7•1 15%05F th)w¢v4•dJllOJIIQIJ. Sub t•r•llGmss Jcome lor ARI Sub lot&l 7•1 Totsl rec 7$1 41 41 •75 78 IndeperOent evrnlner's 5tatemtnt 4217 10A54 TtMWT 15 •J>) fo t•bp ieXW. N•1 of frjnds A6 ¢h lund5 Id5t C•sh funds thh ye I? i•S97. Endoi¥m+ni funds D•tal Bethll on Sea. Ea51 Susxx. TN40 1tr 81 Cash funds I•A•T
No trustees were remunerated or received any expenses or payments during the year. Our Charity insurance provides Trustee Indemnity cover against executive risks to the sum of £500,000. Our Public Liability covers us to £5,000,000 and £10,000,000 for Employers Liability. Our reserves at year end were £92,802 of which £19,897 were restricted and £72,905 were unrestricted. Dost's reserves policy balances the need to build up long term reserves against the need for short term spending on core activities. The Charity's reserves exist to provide short term protection against downward fluctuations in annual revenues. The trustees declare that they have approved the Trustees’ Report above. os a Le Lee e ea ie hss Pe Le) | ie <a a r ar Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees. ie lie — iar Se 2 oer = ae 1 et? Se Signed by Chair of Trustees: << Ser) = ‘. ~ <2 epee JIM MINTON =e Ai ee ests —— i h? i Dated: 19.12.2025
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