2025-08-31-accounts - Fodip (The Forum For Discussion Of Israel And Palestine)

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TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT,

WITH ANNUAL ACCOUNTS

FOR

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Period

1[st] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT, WITH ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

Registered Charity Number 1189476

CIO - ASSOCIATION Registered 14 May 2020

For the Financial Period 1[ST] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

Patrons:

Lord Harries of Pentregarth

Rabbi Dr Tony Bayfield CBE

Imam Qari Asim MBE

Members

Dr Jane Clements MBE (Joint Chair)

Rabbi Warren Elf MBE (Joint Chair/Treasurer)

Jawad Amin

Rev Toby Crowe

Muddassar Ahmed

FODIP - The Forum for Discussion of Israel and Palestine

Registered Address from 14 May 2020 Manchester Multifaith Centre Unit 18, The Wesley Centre Royce Road Manchester M15 5BP www.fodip.org.uk ;

E: admin@fodip.org.uk

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Year 1[ST] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

FODIP is a charitable incorporated organisation (registered on 14 May 2020) established to improve inter faith relations in the UK in the context of the Israeli Palestinian conflict.

Trustees report

Our Aims

FODIP’s objects are:

The promotion of racial and religious harmony for the benefit of the public in particular but not exclusively by:

a) Promoting mutual understanding and respect between Jews, Christians, Muslims and the wider public in the UK;
b) The provision of assistance, through dialogue and education, where community relations are threatened by differences in perspectives regarding the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and other global problems;
c) Resourcing the public concerning religious issues and approaches to peace and justice, involving events and people in the Middle East.

Objectives

In order to fulfil these aims, FODIP works through three main areas of activity:

On a local level, resourcing and facilitating dialogue and education among local faith and inter faith groups on the Israeli Palestinian conflict;
Through Study Tours to Israel and Palestine;
At national level, acting as a point of information and advice, consulting and providing material for national organisations and institutions.

Governance

The trustees met virtually and in person during this period and there was regular communication between trustees and the Director.

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Year

1ST SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025

Trustees report cont’d

Summary

During the period September 2024 to August 2025, FODIP has continued to play a vital role in supporting communities, institutions, and individuals navigating the ongoing tensions arising from the events and conflict in Palestine and Israel and the wider region, and in addressing the divisions being felt within our local communities. Demand for our work has remained high, with schools, universities, community organisations, and civil society groups seeking guidance and support in responding to the issues emerging within communities across the UK.

FODIP has continued to provide safe spaces for participants and communities through dialogue, learning, and reflection while supporting individuals experiencing the personal and relational challenges associated with polarisation, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and rising community tensions. Through our programmes and outreach activities, we have worked with a wide range of stakeholders including young people, faith leaders, educators, civil society organisations, and local and national government representatives.

Our programmes have continued, adapting to address ongoing and evolving needs. We have been successful in bringing people together across faiths and backgrounds in many instances, to engage in meaningful dialogue where appropriate, and to build relationships based on trust and mutual understanding. Despite the ongoing challenges, this year has also been one of organisational growth and development, with new funding secured, new staff recruited, and plans underway to expand and strengthen our programmes and their impact.

Throughout the year, FODIP has engaged with approximately over 1,375 participants directly, including young people, educators, community leaders, faith representatives, and members of the wider public. The wider reach of our work through events, partnerships, and networks extends significantly beyond this number.

This year has reinforced the importance of FODIP’s mission and highlighted the growing need for safe spaces that support constructive meaningful discussions and collaborative engagement, helping communities find ways to move forward together.

Our Impact during the period 1ST SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025

During the year September 2024 to August 2025, FODIP continued to bring together individuals and communities from diverse backgrounds to engage, through listening, dialogue, develop understanding, and strengthen relationships across faiths and

communities. Our programmes and outreach activities supported participants in navigating at times difficult, emotional and sensitive issues while building skills in communication, conflict awareness, mediation, and collaboration.

Impact we have made:

Approximately 1,375+ people engaged directly through FODIP programmes, events and outreach activities
35 participants involved in the Tough Options Moving Forward (TOMF) programme
12 monthly workshops and dialogue sessions delivered through TOMF
2 residential programmes held as part of TOMF, with 27 participants attending
5 workshops and dialogue events delivered through the Breaking Barriers Creating Conversations (BBCC) programme
25 new young people engaged through BBCC activities
Approximately 110 women aged 14 years and upwards participating in the Women’s Sports Programme , primarily from traditional backgrounds living in North Manchester
40 weekly sports sessions delivered during the year, avoiding all religious holidays
Engagement with schools, colleges, universities, faith communities and civic leaders across the UK
Participation in government roundtables and national conferences addressing the impact of the Palestine, Israel and wider region conflict on UK communities
New funding secured through the National Lottery Reaching Communities programme supporting FODIP’s growth and long-term sustainability and Young Game Changers Fund in addition to small commissioned projects.
Multiple workshops and dialogue sessions delivered both online and in person
Schools, colleges and universities supported through advisory sessions and facilitated discussions
Young people trained in communication, mediation and conflict resolution skills
New staff recruited to strengthen organisational capacity
New programmes and training initiatives developed

Communities Reached

FODIP engaged a wide range of communities and stakeholders through its work during the year, including:

School and college staff and students
University staff and students
Youth programme participants and Young Ambassadors
Women participating in the Women’s Sports Programme
Faith community members and faith leaders
Interfaith and civil society organisations and networks
Local councillors and civic leaders
Members of the wider public and civil society organisations

Funders and Philanthropists

Activities:

Our work over the year has included:

The continuation of our main projects : Tough Options Moving Forward (TOMF), Breaking Barriers Creating Conversations (BBCC), FODIP Ambassadors and Women’s Sports Programme (WSP). These programmes have continued to bring together the participants and have welcomed new participants.

Tough Options Moving Forward (TOMF) programme has continued to be a central part of FODIP’s work during the year. Following the uplift in funding secured through the National Lottery Reaching Communities programme, we were able to expand the programme and engage a new cohort of participants alongside previous participants.

One of the key developments this year has been the successful integration of new and previous participants, with earlier cohorts providing support, mentorship, and guidance to newer members. This has strengthened the programme’s community and created opportunities for peer learning and leadership development.

During the year, we delivered a series of online and in-person workshops, with input from Palestinians and Israelis from the region, alongside experts, academics, and FODIP practitioners. These sessions addressed issues that young people were experiencing as a result of events in the region, while supporting participants to navigate difficult conversations and situations with empathy and respect for differing perspectives.

Two residential programmes were held during the year:

A residential programme in Greater Manchester, England
A residential programme at Corrymeela, Northern Ireland

These residentials provide a unique environment where participants can connect outside the formal learning setting, allowing friendships and trust to develop organically. Shared experiences during mealtimes, walks, reflection sessions, and informal discussions help participants build deeper understanding and empathy that cannot always be achieved in structured workshops.

Residentials also offer space for participants to process challenging conversations at their own pace and support one another. This informal interaction encourages openness and honesty, strengthens group cohesion, and helps participants develop resilience and find time to talk about issues that they may agree on and bond over outside of the difficult issues being discussed in workshops

Participants continued to engage in discussions, training, and facilitated dialogue designed to strengthen their ability to navigate difficult conversations and support positive engagement within their communities.

A number of participants from the programme have continued to develop their own initiatives, organisations, and professional careers in fields connected to dialogue, peacebuilding, interfaith engagement, and community cohesion. FODIP has supported these developments through mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.

The programme also provided training opportunities aimed at equipping participants with the skills required to pursue careers in these fields.

Work has also begun on the next iteration of the TOMF programme, drawing on feedback from previous participants to refine and strengthen the programme model for future cohorts.

Breaking Barriers, Creating Conversations: This programme has continued to provide spaces where young people can explore difficult issues and engage with one another in constructive approach.

Through a combination of facilitated workshops and discussion sessions, the programme encourages participants to examine narratives, challenge assumptions, and develop skills. This programme focuses on young people’s lived experiences of living in Greater Manchester and as a young person affected by all issues including relationships, cohesion the nature and leadership skills.

The programme will continue to grow through the Game Changers funding, which will support the further development and expansion of BBCC activities. This funding allows young people to take on paid roles within the programme, recognising their skills and lived experience while supporting them to develop as leaders in dialogue and community engagement.

Women’s Sports Group: The group has grown with more women continuing to attend through word of mouth.

Sessions have continued to run regularly throughout the year, with breaks observed during religious festivals and holidays. For many participants, the programme remains an important space for connection, wellbeing, and relationship building at a time when community tensions remain high.

Participants continue to benefit from opportunities to participate in new sports and physical activity, increase their wellbeing and interact and improve relations with others from different backgrounds who they otherwise would not have the opportunity to do so. The WhatsApp group is used to share messages of hope and peace and good wishes.

Community Engagement and Outreach and Troubleshooting - Throughout the year, FODIP has been invited to work with schools, colleges, and universities to support staff and students navigating the challenges arising from the conflict in the region.

These engagements have included facilitated discussions, advisory support, and workshops aimed at helping institutions respond sensitively and constructively to tensions within their communities.

We have also engaged with faith leaders, community and civil society organisations, and interfaith networks, supporting them in addressing issues of polarisation, antisemitism, and Islamophobia within their communities.

Our work has also included participation in interfaith panels and conferences involving faith and civil society leaders, where FODIP has contributed its expertise in dialogue and conflict navigation.

Government and Civic Engagement FODIP has continued to be recognised as a trusted voice in conversations around community relations and the impact of Palestine Israel and the wider region on UK communities.

During the year we were invited to participate in government roundtable discussions, providing insights into how tensions are affecting communities and offering recommendations on constructive responses.

We also attended the Labour Party Conference, engaging with policymakers and stakeholders to highlight the importance of dialogue-based approaches to addressing division and polarisation.

Partnerships and Networks - FODIP has continued to maintain and develop relationships with a wide range of funders, partners, and stakeholders.

We remain an active member of a network which brings together peacebuilders and facilitators from the UK, working collaboratively with other organisations committed to promoting cohesion and understanding.

Through ongoing engagement with partners and stakeholders, we continue to strengthen our network of facilitators, experts, and community leaders.

Organisational Development - This year has also seen significant developments within the organisation.

FODIP successfully secured a five-year grant of £487,610 from the National Lottery Reaching Communities programme. This funding will enable us to strengthen our organisational infrastructure, expand our programmes, and increase our reach and impact.

As part of this development, two new members of staff have been recruited and welcomed to the team this year:

Part-time Finance Officer
Part-time Development Officer

These roles will support the organisation’s growth and training offer as well as financial management, fundraising efforts, and long-term sustainability.

During the year our Project Manager left the organisation, and recruitment and transition processes has started to ensure continuity in programme delivery.

The team has also participated in staff training with trustees, onboarding, and development days, strengthening capacity and ensuring continued professional development.

Communications and Public Engagement - During the year we have worked to strengthen our communications and engagement with stakeholders.

This has included:

A redesign of the FODIP website
Increased engagement through the website and social media platforms including Instagram and LinkedIn
Greater use of newsletters and mailing lists to keep stakeholders informed of our work

These developments aim to improve visibility, engagement, and communication with our growing network.

Future Development - Looking ahead, FODIP is working on the development of new programmes and initiatives designed to respond to the evolving needs of communities.

This includes the development of the Women for Togetherness – Navigating Politics and Civil Society programme, which will support women in leadership roles in navigating difficult conversations and community tensions.

We are also continuing to develop new resources, workshops and training programmes for universities, community groups, and organisations seeking support in addressing polarisation and conflict.

Through these initiatives we aim to:

Strengthen organisational infrastructure
Develop and grow governance structures
Increase the reach and effectiveness of our programmes
Support communities to be resilient against hate crime and division
Expand and strengthen our volunteer and facilitator network
Enhance the skills of our participants, facilitators and community leaders in conflict resolution, improved communication and navigating difficult situations and mediation.

Through these engagements, FODIP continues to provide safe spaces for people, contribute to strengthen relationships between communities, and equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate and address difficult issues with empathy and respect.

Testimonials

“Thank you for the space to meet our neighbours from all backgrounds. Of vital importance at this time. We need to build trust in a safe space and reduce fear of the ‘other’. And work for peace and humanity” Women Sport Programme participant

“I had conversations with more people as I had the base layer from the previous one to continue conversations. I felt it was a tighter knit group. The setting made it feel brilliant. The group walk was fantastic. Would’ve been great if it was longer as it was getting powerful and the meaning of dialogue was more true at this residential” TOMF participant

“In the most difficult of circumstances, no matter what is going on around the world or in the middle east, its possible to put friendships first, its possible to put humanity first and engage with, even have a good time together with someone from the other side. Fodip helps facilitate this” – TOMF Participant

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Period

1ST SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025

Financial Reserves

Reserves Policy

The members have agreed the reserves policy to leave enough to meet three months’ running costs. This means that the reserves for the year are as set at 31[st] August 2025 of £20,052.15 (unrestricted) which is equal to three months’ expenditure on costs (that is, rent and management).

Principal funding sources

The main source of income this year have been from The National Lottery Community Fund, The Young Game Changers Fund and donations were significantly higher than previous years. The delivery of seminars, consultation expertise and facilitation where appropriate, attract payment for such services.

Investment policy and objectives

The association has no long-term investments. All cash reserves are held in the Unity Trust current bank account.

Plans for future period

Aims for the forthcoming twelve months are:

To establish a sound financial base & diversify our income streams
To build capacity
To utilise the ongoing programmes to raise the profile of the organisation
To continue to deliver our 3 major programmes.
To develop more institutional collaborations and partnerships

Rabbi Warren Elf MBE Joint Chair/Honorary Treasurer

Date: 28/04/2026

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP) For the Financial Period

1st SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025 FODIP Income and Expenditure, 1 September 2024 – 31 August 2025

Income TNLottery TNL RC TOMF Deposits + Refund Donations Services / Consultancy The Global Fund for Children Total Income Expenditure TOMF Project Worker TOMF Project Director TOMF Equipment TOMF Venue Pixie Payroll TOMF Facilitation TOMF Advert TOMF Travel Salaries (RC) Phone Women’s Voices Bank Charges Website Office Travel Expenses A4A Project Insurance Fundraising Safeguarding DBS Certificate HMRC NEST Pension Laptop Repairs Gamechangers Training Total Expenditure Excess of Income Opening bank balance Closing bank balance	*Year ended 31st August 2025* Total Restricted £ £ 94,144.67 94,144.67 26,975.00 26,975.00 300.00 1,374.00 - 562.04 - 19,860.00 - 143,215.71 121,119.67 25,018.01 25,018.01 33,000.00 33,000.00 1,952.62 1,952.62 12,187.50 12,187.50 275.24 275.24 3,962.40 3,962.40 359.67 359.67 2,873.97 2,873.97 5,466.02 5,466.02 455.88 - 1,650.00 - 106.95 - 395.40 395.40 6,716.29 6,716.29 559.04 559.04 314.88 314.88 386.74 386.74 827.70 - - - 61.50 61.50 5,196.25 5,196.25 1,138.20 1,138.20 20.00 - 100.00 - 153.45 - 103,177.71 99,863.73 40,038.00 90,822.65 130,860.65	*Year ended 31st August 2024* Total Restricted £ £ 65,150.00 65,150.00 - - 575.00 7,978.74 - 2,938.95 -
		76,642.69 65,150.00
		19,685.00 19,685.00 33,000.00 33,000.00 3,785.83 3,785.83 1,611.19 1,611.19 238.92 238.92 4,639.60 4,639.60 - - 3,308.11 3,308.11 - - 375.88 - 1,531.70 - 72.00 - 325.58 325.58 6,285.32 6,285.32 742.12 742.12 744.01 744.01 340.32 340.32 8,159.88 8,159.88 100.00 100.00 - - - - - - - - - - - -
		84,945.46 82,965.88
		-8,302.77 99,125.42 90,822.65

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT,

WITH ANNUAL ACCOUNTS

FOR

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Period

1[st] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT, WITH ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

Registered Charity Number 1189476

CIO - ASSOCIATION Registered 14 May 2020

For the Financial Period 1[ST] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

Patrons:

Lord Harries of Pentregarth

Rabbi Dr Tony Bayfield CBE

Imam Qari Asim MBE

Members

Dr Jane Clements MBE (Joint Chair)

Rabbi Warren Elf MBE (Joint Chair/Treasurer)

Jawad Amin

Rev Toby Crowe

Muddassar Ahmed

FODIP - The Forum for Discussion of Israel and Palestine

Registered Address from 14 May 2020 Manchester Multifaith Centre Unit 18, The Wesley Centre Royce Road Manchester M15 5BP www.fodip.org.uk ;

E: admin@fodip.org.uk

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Year 1[ST] SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31[ST] AUGUST 2025

FODIP is a charitable incorporated organisation (registered on 14 May 2020) established to improve inter faith relations in the UK in the context of the Israeli Palestinian conflict.

Trustees report

Our Aims

FODIP’s objects are:

The promotion of racial and religious harmony for the benefit of the public in particular but not exclusively by:

a) Promoting mutual understanding and respect between Jews, Christians, Muslims and the wider public in the UK;
b) The provision of assistance, through dialogue and education, where community relations are threatened by differences in perspectives regarding the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and other global problems;
c) Resourcing the public concerning religious issues and approaches to peace and justice, involving events and people in the Middle East.

Objectives

In order to fulfil these aims, FODIP works through three main areas of activity:

On a local level, resourcing and facilitating dialogue and education among local faith and inter faith groups on the Israeli Palestinian conflict;
Through Study Tours to Israel and Palestine;
At national level, acting as a point of information and advice, consulting and providing material for national organisations and institutions.

Governance

The trustees met virtually and in person during this period and there was regular communication between trustees and the Director.

THE FORUM FOR DISCUSSION OF ISRAEL AND PALESTINE (FODIP)

For the Financial Year

1ST SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025

Trustees report cont’d

Summary

Our Impact during the period 1ST SEPTEMBER 2024 – 31ST AUGUST 2025

Impact we have made:

Approximately 1,375+ people engaged directly through FODIP programmes, events and outreach activities
35 participants involved in the Tough Options Moving Forward (TOMF) programme
12 monthly workshops and dialogue sessions delivered through TOMF
2 residential programmes held as part of TOMF, with 27 participants attending
5 workshops and dialogue events delivered through the Breaking Barriers Creating Conversations (BBCC) programme
25 new young people engaged through BBCC activities
Approximately 110 women aged 14 years and upwards participating in the Women’s Sports Programme , primarily from traditional backgrounds living in North Manchester
40 weekly sports sessions delivered during the year, avoiding all religious holidays
Engagement with schools, colleges, universities, faith communities and civic leaders across the UK
Participation in government roundtables and national conferences addressing the impact of the Palestine, Israel and wider region conflict on UK communities
New funding secured through the National Lottery Reaching Communities programme supporting FODIP’s growth and long-term sustainability and Young Game Changers Fund in addition to small commissioned projects.
Multiple workshops and dialogue sessions delivered both online and in person
Schools, colleges and universities supported through advisory sessions and facilitated discussions
Young people trained in communication, mediation and conflict resolution skills
New staff recruited to strengthen organisational capacity
New programmes and training initiatives developed

Communities Reached

FODIP engaged a wide range of communities and stakeholders through its work during the year, including:

School and college staff and students
University staff and students
Youth programme participants and Young Ambassadors
Women participating in the Women’s Sports Programme
Faith community members and faith leaders
Interfaith and civil society organisations and networks
Local councillors and civic leaders
Members of the wider public and civil society organisations

Funders and Philanthropists

Activities:

Our work over the year has included:

Two residential programmes were held during the year:

A residential programme in Greater Manchester, England
A residential programme at Corrymeela, Northern Ireland