2024-04-02-accounts

Trustees’ Annual Report for the period

From 01/04/2023 Period start date To 11/01/2025 Period end date

Charity name: GLOBAL REFUGEE AID

Charity registration number: 1193619

Objectives and Activities

	SORP reference
Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document	Para 1.17	The objects of Global Refugee Aid (GRA) which are for the public benefit, are specifically restricted to the following: a. the relief of poverty and the preservation and protection of health of those seeking asylum or granted leave to remain in the UK or overseas by assisting with provision of aid, accommodation, advice, support and education and by facilitating the integration of refugees and asylum seekers into the wider community. b. to advance the education and training and relieve financial hardship amongst those seeking asylum and those granted refugee status and their dependents in the UK or overseas particularly by signposting to accommodation, employment, education, legal and other advice so as to advance them in life and assist them to adapt and integrate within a new community.
Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts.	Para 1.17 and 1.19	Global Refugee Aid is dedicated to providing vital support and hope to refugees and internally displaced individuals, particularly vulnerable women and girls who have endured unimaginable hardship. Through counselling, maternal health services, and livelihood training, GRA empowers survivors to rebuild their lives and regain a sense of purpose and dignity. GRA focuses on healing the physical and emotional wounds of traumatised women, girls, men, and boys who have fled brutal regional conflicts across East Africa. Two of our key projects include: • Trauma Healing for Refugee Survivors of Sexual Violence in East Africa, offering essential therapeutic care and support to

		survivors to help them reclaim their lives. • Transforming the Physical and Emotional Health of Albino Refugees, providing targeted health and social interventions for this often-marginalized group. In addition to these life-changing initiatives, GRA has expanded its mission toBurundi, where we are addressing a growing and urgent crisis: displaced women suffering from breast cancer without access to proper care or support. These women, many of whom have been internally displaced and lack resources, face devastating health outcomes due to delayed or inaccessible treatment. To combat this crisis, GRA has launched a Breast Cancer Mission in Burundi, mobilising dedicated volunteers’ doctors and health professionals from the UK to provide free breast cancer screenings and symptomatic clinics. This initiative not only saves lives but also restores hope, offering compassionate care to women who had none. By focusing on early detection and symptom management, we are giving these women a fighting chance and standing by their side in their journey toward recovery.
Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit	Para 1.18	Global Refugee Aid is committed to providing essential support and resources to displaced individuals worldwide, ensuring they receive the assistance necessary for their survival, well-being, and eventual resettlement. Our mission is to deliver humanitarian aid, education, and opportunities for refugees, fostering hope and rebuilding lives in the face of adversity. The trustees of Global Refugee Aid confirm that they have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit. In our activities and decisionmaking processes, we continuously ensure that our work aligns with the principles of public benefit as outlined by the Charity Commission. This commitment ensures that our actions effectively contribute to the public good, particularly in supporting vulnerable refugee populations and addressing their urgent needs.

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

	SORP reference
Policy on grant making	Para 1.38
Policy on social investment including program related investment	Para 1.38
Contribution made by volunteers	Para 1.38	This year, the dedicated volunteers of Global Refugee Aid have made an extraordinary impact through their selfless commitment and tireless efforts. Their unwavering dedication to helping vulnerable women, particularly those battling breast cancer, has been nothing short of inspiring. InBurundi, GRA’s volunteers—comprising doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals—are at the forefront of our Breast Cancer Mission. They have worked tirelessly to provide free breast cancer screenings and symptomatic clinics for internally displaced women who have no access to care or financial means for treatment. By delivering life-saving services, our volunteers are not only identifying cancer at an early stage but also offering hope and compassion to women who might otherwise face this illness alone. Meanwhile, inUganda, GRA’s health professionals continue to deliver vital trauma healing services and maternal health support to refugees and internally displaced individuals. Their work transforms lives, providing emotional and physical care to those who have experienced unimaginable suffering. Through these efforts, they are empowering women and families to rebuild their futures with renewed strength and resilience. The incredible work of GRA’s volunteers— whether in Burundi, Uganda, or across East Africa—has brought meaningful change to countless lives. Their tireless commitment to improving the health and well-being of women and their families is the heart of our mission. We could not be prouder of their contributions, which

embody the true spirit of compassion and humanity. Other

Achievements and Performance

	SORP reference
Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity’s work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole.	Para 1.20	Global Refugee Aid (GRA) has continued to make significant strides in improving the lives of refugees, particularly vulnerable women and girls, across East Africa. Through our targeted projects focused on trauma healing, maternal health services, livelihood training, and specialized healthcare, we have brought meaningful and lasting change to individuals and communities. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in the previous financial year, GRA has emerged stronger, leveraging new opportunities and resources to amplify its impact. Our work, supported by generous grants such as that received from the Souter Charitable Trust, has allowed us to expand critical services in Uganda and initiate new life-saving programs in Burundi, demonstrating our resilience and unwavering commitment to our mission. Impact on Beneficiaries 1.Counselling and Trauma Healing • GRA’sTrauma Healing for Refugee Survivors of Sexual Violence in East Africahas continued to provide essential counselling services to women and girls who have endured severe trauma. This initiative has supported survivors in their journey toward emotional recovery, enabling them to rebuild their lives with resilience and dignity. 2.Maternal Health Services • We have made significant progress in ensuring access to maternal health services,

promoting safe pregnancies and childbirths. Our efforts have directly contributed to a measurable reduction in maternal and infant mortality rates, fostering healthier families and stronger communities. 3. Livelihood Training • Through livelihood training programs, we have equipped refugees—particularly women—with the skills needed to achieve financial independence. These programs not only improve individual economic outcomes but also instil a sense of self-reliance and empowerment among participants. 4. Support for Albino Refugees • Our project to Transform the Physical and Emotional Health of Albino Refugees has continued to address the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable group. By providing access to medical care, psychological support, and community advocacy, we are improving their quality of life and fostering social inclusion. 5. Breast Cancer Mission in Burundi • This year, we launched a critical Breast Cancer Mission in Burundi , focusing on displaced women who lack access to healthcare. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our medical volunteers, we are offering free breast cancer screenings and symptomatic care to women who might otherwise face this devastating illness without support. This initiative has already provided hope and life-saving care to many, highlighting GRA’s ability to respond to urgent and emerging health crises. Wider Societal Benefits 1. Enhanced Community Health

• Our comprehensive
approach to both physical
and mental health continues
to strengthen refugee
communities. By addressing
core health needs, GRA
reduces the strain on local
healthcare systems and
fosters healthier, more
resilient populations.
2.Economic Empowerment
• Livelihood training programs
have broader economic
implications, empowering
refugees to contribute
meaningfully to local
economies. This reduces
long-term dependency on
aid and promotes
sustainable development in
refugee-hosting regions.
3.Social Cohesion
• GRA’s efforts to integrate
refugees into local
communities have fostered
social cohesion, reduced
tensions, and promoted
inclusive societies where
refugees are recognized as
valuable contributors.
Progress from the Previous Year
The past financial year saw GRA resume
and expand its activities, building on the
foundation laid in previous years. While the
COVID-19 pandemic had a significant
impact on our ability to fundraise and
implement projects, we successfully
adapted to these challenges. The grant
received from theSouter Charitable Trust
allowed us to scale our efforts in Uganda,
enhancing trauma healing and maternal
health services for refugees. This funding
has been instrumental in enabling us to
restore and expand essential services to
those in need.
In Burundi, the launch of our Breast Cancer
Mission represents a major milestone, as
we address a pressing health crisis among
displaced women. The incredible dedication
of our volunteers, including doctors and
healthcare professionals, has been central
to the success of this program, and their
work continues to inspire hope and
transformation.

Looking Ahead Global Refugee Aid remains committed to its mission of healing, empowering, and transforming lives. The progress achieved this year reflects not only the resilience of our organization but also the enduring support of our donors, partners, and volunteers. Together, we are making a tangible difference, bringing healing, hope, and empowerment to refugees across East Africa and beyond.

Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

Achievements against objectives set Para 1.41 Performance of fundraising activities against objectives set Para 1.41 Investment performance against objectives Para 1.41 Other

Financial Review

Review of the charity’s financial position at the end of the period	Para 1.21	Global Refugee Aid has made commendable progress in fundraising during this financial year compared to the previous year. Despite ongoing challenges in securing grants, we have seen a positive shift in our ability to attract donations and engage supporters, which has significantly bolstered our ability to carry out vital projects. This year, GRA was fortunate to receive a £3,000 grant from the Souter Charitable Trust, which has been instrumental in supporting our women’s project in Uganda. Additionally,Calvary Chapel Church contributed a generous£600, demonstrating their continued commitment to our cause. A particularly inspiring contribution came fromRiverstone Company, which donated £3,150through an innovative process where one of their staff members donated to GRA, and the company tripled the amount, reinforcing their values of corporate social responsibility and charitable giving. The remainder of our funding was raised through the incredible efforts of volunteers who set upJustGivingandGoFundMe pages. These grassroots campaigns rallied community support for ourBreast Cancer Mission in Burundi, enabling us to provide life-saving screenings and care for displaced women suffering from breast cancer. By the end of the financial year, GRA remains focused on fundraising and acknowledges the continued challenges in securing larger grants. However, the strides made this year highlight the resilience and dedication of our supporters, volunteers, and partners. These contributions are not only vital to sustaining our ongoing projects but also provide a foundation for growth as we continue to heal and empower refugees across East Africa.
Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held	Para 1.22	Global Refugee Aid (GRA) recognises the importance of holding financial reserves to ensure the sustainability of our mission and to safeguard the continuation of critical projects in the face of unexpected challenges. Reserves provide a financial

safety net, enabling the charity to remain
resilient and adaptable while maintaining
our commitment to supporting refugees and
vulnerable individuals across East Africa.
For the financial year ending 02/04/2024,
GRA received a total income of£12,358.
Out of this, we were able to set aside£600
in reserves. This achievement is particularly
notable given the significant expenses
incurred to sustain and expand our projects.
These reserves reflect prudent financial
management and a dedication to future-
proofing our operations.
Financial Overview for the Year
• Total Income:£12,358
• Total Expenditures:£10,523
• Reserves Held:£600
Achievements Despite Challenges
This year, GRA overcame significant
financial challenges to deliver impactful
programs:
1.Breast Cancer Mission in Burundi
o Funds were used to pay for
flights and travel expenses
for UK doctors and health
professionals who
volunteered their time to
provide free breast cancer
screenings and care to
displaced women. This life-
saving mission has
transformed lives and
exemplified the power of
global collaboration.
2.Uganda Projects
o We ensured that our ongoing
projects in Uganda, including
trauma healing and maternal
health services, were run
effectively and reached
those in desperate need of
support.
Reflection on the Year’s Financial
Position
This year’s financial performance marks a
significant improvement compared to the
previous period (02/04/2022 to 02/04/2023),
when GRA faced severe financial
constraints and had no incoming funds.
Starting the current financial year with only
£73, GRA raised£12,358, a testament to

		the renewed focus on fundraising and the generosity of our supporters. While expenditures for the year totalled £10,523, reflecting the cost of delivering vital services and operational expenses, the ability to hold£600 in reserveshighlights our commitment to financial sustainability. This reserve ensures that we are better prepared to face unforeseen challenges while continuing to deliver high-impact programs. Looking Ahead Global Refugee Aid remains steadfast in its mission to empower and heal vulnerable communities. The achievements of this financial year demonstrate the charity’s resilience, growth, and dedication to its cause. Moving forward, GRA will continue to prioritize strategic fundraising, effective resource allocation, and the expansion of programs to reach even more refugees and displaced individuals in need. Our progress this year has been extraordinary, and with the continued support of our donors, volunteers, and partners, we are confident in our ability to build on this momentum and achieve even greater impact in the future.
Amount of reserves held	Para 1.22	£600
Reasons for holding zero reserves	Para 1.22
Details of fund materially in deficit	Para 1.24
Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity continuing as a going concern	Para 1.23	Global Refugee Aid remains confident in its ability to continue as a going concern. This financial year has seen remarkable progress in both fundraising and program delivery, marking a significant improvement from the challenges faced in the previous financial year. This year, GRA successfully raised £12,358, a substantial increase compared to the prior year’s financial difficulties, enabling the continuation and expansion of our vital work. Key achievements include the Breast Cancer Mission in Burundi, supported by funds raised through volunteer-led initiatives and corporate partnerships, and ongoing projects in Uganda funded by a£3,000 grant from the Souter Charitable Trust. These accomplishments demonstrate GRA’s

resilience and ability to adapt to changing
circumstances to meet the needs of
vulnerable populations.
Financial Considerations
While GRA has made significant strides in
fundraising this year, challenges remain in
securing sufficient grant funding to match
the increasing demand for our services. The
£600 reserveheld at the end of this
financial year is a positive step towards
building financial stability, but it underscores
the need for continued focus on diversifying
income streams and scaling up fundraising
efforts.
Operational Highlights
• Burundi Breast Cancer Mission:
Funded by grassroots campaigns
and individual donors, this project
has provided life-saving care to
internally displaced women,
showcasing the ability of our team to
mobilize resources for urgent needs.
• Uganda Projects:The Souter
Charitable Trust’s grant allowed
GRA to sustain its programs in
Uganda, including trauma healing
and maternal health initiatives,
ensuring the continuity of critical
services for refugee communities.
• Corporate Partnerships:
Innovative partnerships, such as the
£3,150 donation from Riverstone
Company, highlight the potential for
leveraging corporate support to
strengthen our financial base.
Conclusion
Despite ongoing challenges in securing
sufficient grant funding, GRA is in a much
stronger financial position than in previous
years. The charity’s leadership is committed
to further diversifying funding sources,
exploring new grant opportunities, and
enhancing grassroots fundraising initiatives
to ensure sustainability and growth.
With renewed momentum and the
continued support of our donors,
volunteers, and partners, GRA is confident
in its ability to maintain operations, achieve
its mission, and expand its impact in the
lives of refugees across East Africa.

Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

The charity’s principal sources of funds (including any fundraising)	Para 1.47
Investment policy and objectives including any social investment policy adopted	Para 1.46
A description of the principal risks facing the charity	Para 1.46
Other

Structure, Governance and Management

Description of charity’s trusts:
Type of governing document (trust deed, royal charter)	Para 1.25	Global Refugee Aid is governed by a Constitution of a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). In this structure, the only voting members are the charity trustees. This governing document outlines the framework within which GRA operates, including the roles and responsibilities of the trustees, the procedures for decisionmaking, and the overall governance of the charity. This constitution ensures that the organization is managed effectively, in accordance with legal requirements and best practices, to fulfil its mission of supporting refugees.
How is the charity constituted? (e.g unincorporated association, CIO)	Para 1.25	Global Refugee Aid is constituted as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).
Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees	Para 1.25	Per the Global Refugee Aid constitution: 1. Resolution Requirement: - Apart from the first charity trustees, every trustee must be appointed by a resolution passed at a properly convened meeting of the charity trustees. This ensures that each appointment is formally approved and documented, promoting transparency and accountability within the organization. 2. Consideration of Skills, Knowledge, and Experience: - In selecting individuals for appointment as charity trustees, the current trustees must have regard to the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for the effective administration of the CIO. This ensures that the board comprises individuals with the appropriate expertise to guide and support the charity’s mission effectively. These provisions in the GRA constitution ensure a thorough and equitable process for trustee appointments, contributing to the robust governance and successful operation of the organisation.

Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees	Para 1.51
The charity’s organisational structure and any wider network with which the charity works	Para 1.51

Relationship with any related parties	Para 1.51
Other

Reference and Administrative details

Charity name	GLOBAL REFUGEE AID
Other name the charity uses
Registered charity number	1193619
Charity’s principal address	4 The Oaklands Hemsworth West Yorkshire WF94TT

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20	Trustee name	Office (if any)	Dates acted if not for whole year	Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (if any)
	Mireille Nkamicaniye
	BeverlyCunnane
	Dr Febronie Nkunzimana
	Elsa Irabona

– Corporate trustees names of the directors at the date the report was approved

Director name N/A

Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity

Trustee name	Dates acted if not for whole year
N/A

Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others

Description of the assets N/A held in this capacity Name and objects of the N/A charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects Details of arrangements for N/A safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets

Additional information (optional)

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)	Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)	Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)
Type of adviser Name Address
Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)

Exemptions from disclosure

Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details

Other optional information

Declarations

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signature(s) Full name(s) Position (eg Secretary, Chair, etc) Date
	Mireille	Nkamicaniye
	Chair
	28/01/2025
	28/01/2025