•• peace of mind, Side by side with refugees ¢4-: ## **Peace of Mind CIO - Annual Report January 2024 - December 2024** ## **Foreword** The year 2024 presented immense challenges for refugees and asylum seekers, with rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures compounding everyday hardships. The increasingly hostile political climate was sharply felt, especially following the distressing riots in August, which spread anxiety and disrupted lives among our RAS community. Amid this turbulent backdrop, Peace of Mind CIO intensified its focus on wellbeing, hardship support, empowerment, and skills-building, positioning itself as a cornerstone for resilience and integration. Our strengthened partnerships, including vital collaboration with Northumbria Police and Gateshead Public Health, enabled us to respond effectively during and after the riots, ensuring safety and reassurance for vulnerable individuals. Through education, advocacy, and practical assistance, we have worked tirelessly to foster a cohesive, inclusive community where refugees and asylum seekers can reclaim dignity and hope. ## **Chair’s Message** “Empowerment, solidarity, and compassion have been our guiding lights through a demanding year.” 2024 tested the strength of every person involved with Peace of Mind CIO. Inflation pushed families deeper into hardship, while the riots brought fear and uncertainty. At the same time, a constantly evolving and often hostile political landscape around asylum and refugees added further complexity and anxiety, making our work to provide support and hope even more essential. We rose to these challenges by expanding hardship relief, embedding wellbeing at the heart of our work, and amplifying education and advocacy efforts to ensure everyone knew and could exercise their rights. Our partnership with Northumbria Police and local stakeholders during the riots was key to safeguarding our community and rebuilding trust. I pay tribute to the resilience of beneficiaries, volunteers, staff, and partners whose collective efforts have transformed adversity into opportunity. Together, we are building stronger, more integrated communities and we stand ready to continue this vital mission in the years ahead. ## **Our Mission and Values** Founded in 2014 as a refugee-led organisation, Peace of Mind CIO remains steadfast in its commitment to relieve hardship and champion inclusion with a trauma-informed and culturally respectful approach. We enable refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their lives through practical support, education, skills development, advice, and advocacy, anchored in dignity, respect, and empowerment. ## **Core Purpose of CIO** The objects of the CIO are to relieve the needs of those granted refugee status or those seeking asylum and their dependents living (temporarily or permanently) in Gateshead and Newcastle, and the surrounding areas by: 1. Relieving poverty or financial hardship in particular, but not exclusively, by the provision of advice, translating, education, emergency food packs, small grants, household, and personal care items. 2. The provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure-time occupation with the object of improving the conditions of life of those persons who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship, or social and economic circumstances. Building on this core purpose, the following strategic aims outline the key priorities and objectives through which Peace of Mind CIO seeks to deliver meaningful and lasting impact for refugees, asylum seekers, and their families in our community. ## **Strategic Aims** - Deliver immediate relief from poverty, hunger, and social isolation through culturally appropriate support and emergency aid. - Promote wellbeing through dedicated health, mental health, and social engagement programmes. - Provide education and skills-building opportunities that foster independence and promote integration into the local community. - Offer welfare advice and advocacy to empower individuals in understanding and exercising their rights, navigating the complex benefits system, and addressing intricate personal circumstances. - Facilitate digital inclusion as a vital means of connection, learning, and opportunity. - Foster community cohesion and integration by creating welcoming spaces that encourage dialogue, mutual support, and cultural exchange. - Collaborate with statutory and voluntary sector partners to influence policies and practices in ways that improve the experiences of refugees and asylum seekers. ## **What We Do** Our broad spectrum of interconnected services is designed to meet the immediate needs and longer-term aspirations of our beneficiaries, guiding them from crisis to greater stability, wellbeing, and integration. - Weekly drop-in sessions offer emotional support, tailored guidance, and help connecting with essential resources. - Welfare advice and advocacy provide beneficiaries with expert support and guidance to navigate the complex benefits system, address intricate personal circumstances, understand immigration processes, and access essential health and social care services. - Digital inclusion initiatives supply devices, SIM cards, connectivity support, and digital skills training, empowering families to overcome isolation and participate fully in modern society and essential services. - Emergency provision ensures access to culturally appropriate food parcels, clothing, school uniforms, hygiene kits, and newborn essentials for those facing acute need. - Warm Spaces create safe, welcoming venues during colder months and times of crisis, reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing within the community. - English language programmes (including Basic, Advanced, and Women-only classes) build confidence, enhance communication, and support employability. - Recreational holiday activities engage families and children in enriching experiences alongside nutritious, culturally sensitive meals, nurturing children’s health, development, and social inclusion. - Wellbeing activities include mental health workshops, peer support groups, recreational outings, and resilience-building sessions tailored specifically for parents and young people, promoting emotional strength and social connection. - Education and skills workshops deliver sessions on rights awareness, job readiness, language development, and personal growth, fostering empowerment and independence. - Know Your Rights workshops equip refugees and asylum seekers with practical knowledge about their legal entitlements and protections, delivered in accessible, multilingual formats. - Collaborative safety initiatives include our close partnership with Northumbria Police and local agencies during the August riots, ensuring a coordinated crisis response and building community trust. Together, these services establish a comprehensive path from vulnerability towards empowerment, dignity, and full participation in community life. ## **Context and Key Challenges** In 2024, the UK faced sustained economic pressures as inflation remained persistently above the Bank of England’s 2% target. Rising costs across food, energy, and utilities exacerbated household financial strain, driving many families further into deprivation and intensifying the ongoing cost of living crisis. By the end of the year, over half of UK households reported escalating financial difficulties. These economic hardships were compounded by an increasingly fraught political and social environment, culminating in the August riots. This unrest heightened trauma and threatened the fragile fabric of community cohesion. Refugees, asylum seekers, and other vulnerable groups bore the brunt of these shocks, facing increased insecurity amid systemic uncertainties. The constant arrival of new refugee and asylum-seeking families in 2024, with over 108,000 asylum claims made, the highest on record since 1979, meant that demand for support and services remained consistently high throughout the year. With a large number being dispersed in the North East region, we had multiple contacts from across the area, including Durham and Stockton, reflecting broad regional need. Peace of Mind CIO responded with agility and resolve, expanding hardship interventions and mental health support services while enhancing digital access to bridge information and service gaps. We intensified rights education and advocacy programmes to empower individuals navigating complex systems under stressful circumstances. Our close partnership with Nicola Turnbull from Northumbria Police enabled a coordinated protection strategy for vulnerable populations during periods of unrest. Additionally, our collaboration with Gateshead Public Health strengthened holistic wellbeing initiatives, reinforcing efforts to nurture resilience and sustain integration. Collectively, these measures reinforced community solidarity and safeguarded progress towards cohesion and inclusion during an exceptionally challenging year. ## **Volunteers: Pillars of Our Work** Our dedicated team of 28 volunteers brought invaluable skills and compassion, particularly in translation, cultural mediation, and trauma-informed support. Ongoing training upheld safeguarding standards and enriched volunteer capacity to engage meaningfully with complex beneficiary needs. ## **Partnership and Advocacy** Peace of Mind CIO plays a vital role in regional and national advocacy networks. Key collaborative highlights include: - Strategic partnerships with Gateshead Public Health, Housing and Education Departments, and local charities addressing food justice and child poverty. - Engagement with asylum system reform coalitions advocating for fair treatment based on lived experience. - Work alongside Northumbria Police during the riots to safeguard community wellbeing, enhance trust, and restore safety. - Contribution to regional poverty and inclusion summits, influencing policy and practice for vulnerable populations. ## **Community Engagement and Advocacy** Throughout 2024, Peace of Mind CIO undertook a range of important initiatives to strengthen community cohesion, highlight the contributions of refugees, and encourage cultural understanding. Our Refugee Week celebrations provided a vibrant opportunity to raise awareness of the invaluable role refugees play in our society, fostering a spirit of inclusion and collective appreciation. We organised Gateshead’s first inclusive Warm Space Iftar, bringing together diverse communities in a shared setting that promoted unity and cultural exchange. Our lifesaving skills workshops offered essential safety training to parents, while children took part in supervised recreational activities, creating safe environments for learning and social interaction during a period of increased community tension. Central to our empowerment work are the “Know Your Rights” workshops, held in several languages. These sessions provide clear and accessible information on immigration laws, enabling refugees and asylum seekers to navigate systems with confidence and assert their entitlements. On a broader scale, we contributed to national advocacy campaigns such as the Warm Welcome initiative and championed reforms to the asylum system, translating local experiences into wider policy change. ## **Visits and Key Stakeholders** - Nitin Shukla, Programme Lead for Hate and Equality at Northumbria Police, offered valuable guidance on promoting inclusivity and community cohesion, especially following the disturbances in August. - Mayor Kath McCartney engaged directly with community members, listening to their stories and offering hope through genuine connection. - Councillors Kathryn Donovan, Denise Robson, and Kathryn Henderson have been active supporters, regularly visiting our drop-in sessions, providing donations, and maintaining strong relationships with the people we support. - Peter Udall, Strategic Director for Economy, Innovation and Growth, toured our Warm Space to gain a deeper understanding of the practical support we offer during times of crisis. ## **Broader Engagement and Advocacy** - Inspired by leaders such as Amanda Bailey of the North East Child Poverty Commission and Louise Jones, founder of Support and Grow NE, Peace of Mind CIO integrates humanist values into its advocacy, focusing on addressing the underlying causes of poverty and promoting social justice. - Participation in the Gateshead Food Summit enabled us to shape discussions on food justice, community health, and local economic resilience. - Our active role at the North East Child Poverty Summit reinforced our dedication to tackling entrenched regional inequalities, with a strong focus on children’s wellbeing. - To enhance organisational capacity, our senior leadership completed the “Lead the Way” programme, funded by the Virgin Money Foundation. This training has strengthened our strategic planning, adaptive leadership, and long-term impact. - At the national level, Peace of Mind CIO joined a coalition of over 300 organisations campaigning for urgent reform of the asylum system, advocating for policies that uphold human dignity and fairness within the immigration process. ## **Impact** - Deepened understanding of poverty’s effects on vulnerable communities, encouraging compassionate policy reforms. - Advanced conversations on food justice, public health, and economic inclusion through regional summits. - Reinforced inclusivity, diversity, and community integration through local stakeholder engagement. - Provided vital aid including food, clothing, toys, educational materials, and hygiene items to more than 2,400 families and individuals. - Contributed to systemic reform proposals ensuring fair and humane treatment for asylum seekers and refugees. - Celebrated cultural richness through Refugee Week and other community events. - Supported children with school uniforms, recreational activities, and confidence-building opportunities. - Prioritised safety and mental wellbeing during times of increased risk, helping communities recover and flourish. - Increased visibility and credibility nationally and locally through awards, recognition, and media coverage. ## **Achievements and Recognition** - Refugee Support Organisation of the Year 2024 in North East England. - Best Refugee-Led Charity 2023, awarded by SME Northern Enterprise for leadership, innovation, and impact. - Featured prominently in the 2024 Warm Welcome Campaign Impact Report, showcasing our community-driven approach and best practice. ## **Impact in Numbers** The Number of Families and Individuals Supported in 2024 - Gateshead: 1,045 - Newcastle upon Tyne: 332 - Other areas: 153 In 2024, Peace of Mind CIO proudly supported 1,530 separate households, representing 4,778 individuals from 39 diverse nationalities across Gateshead, Newcastle, and surrounding communities. This amounted to 8,372 contact episodes throughout the year, reflecting the significant and growing need for both emotional and practical support. Our comprehensive support package included welfare and benefits advice, assistance with form-filling, homelessness support, emergency food and hygiene supplies, weather-appropriate clothing, school uniforms, newborn essentials, baby buggies, household items, and small furniture pieces. In 2024, we distributed: - 5,340 emergency food parcels - 2,309 hot meals through our Warm Space initiative - 2,638 hygiene parcels Peace of Mind CIO supported individuals from 39 nationalities during the past year. ## **Our Year in Numbers** - 8,372 contact episodes recorded across our services - 4,778 individuals supported directly or indirectly - 413 SIM cards and 59 digital devices distributed to reduce isolation - 108 wellbeing sessions focusing on mental health, peer support, and emotional resilience - 25 education and skills-building workshops promoting empowerment and integration - 126 individuals supported to learn English through weekly conversational classes - 59 women attended English language classes - 273 individuals received direct welfare advocacy to secure access to services and protect rights - 29 young people supported through volunteering opportunities - 237 refugee and asylum-seeking children engaged in holiday activities addressing hunger and social isolation - 1,880 hot meals provided to children during the Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays when school meals were unavailable ## **Christmas Support 2024** During the festive season, we ensured 381 children woke up on Christmas Day with a gift of their own, helping them feel included and valued alongside their peers. Additionally, 202 adults received Christmas gifts and food hampers, bringing much-needed relief and joy during this challenging time of the year. ## **Beneficiary Voices** Our beneficiaries’ words reveal the profound impact of our work: - “During the riots, Peace of Mind’s team was there like a shield, helping me feel safe when everything around was uncertain.” - “Learning about my rights here helped me gain confidence. I now know how to reach out for help.” - “Thanks to the digital support, I was able to connect with my children overseas and access healthcare appointments online.” - “The wellbeing sessions gave me a place to share my worries and find strength in others who understand.” - “The food parcels and warm meals kept my family fed when money was tight. It meant more than just food; it meant care.” - “Volunteering here has helped me heal, learn, and give back. It has changed my life.” ## **Survey Findings 2024** Our latest survey data shines light on evolving needs and the deepening trust in our services: - 97% agreed that weekly drop-ins provide essential emotional and practical support essential to their wellbeing. - 95% reported that welfare advice gave them clearer understanding and better access to benefits and healthcare. - 93% valued digital inclusion initiatives as key to overcoming isolation and staying connected. - 90% credited wellbeing programmes with reducing stress and loneliness. - 89% of women said women-only sessions empowered them personally and socially. - 89% felt holiday activities helped children maintain social ties and feel part of the community. - 85% cited education and skills workshops as critical to their growing independence. - 83% confirmed that advocacy support improved mental health and confidence. - 80% underscored culturally appropriate food provision as fundamental to enduring hardship. ## **Looking Ahead to 2025** Our vision for 2025 is to deepen our holistic support for refugees and asylum seekers through intensified hardship relief, empowerment-focused education, expanded community cohesion initiatives, and stronger advocacy. We will continue to build on our trusted partnerships and cultivate lived experience voices in governance and strategy, creating an even more inclusive North East where everyone belongs and thrives. ## **Conclusion** In 2024, a year shaped by economic hardship and social unrest, Peace of Mind CIO stood as a beacon of hope, dignity, and practical support. Our strengthened services, dedicated volunteers, and strategic collaborations, especially with Northumbria Police and local agencies, have safeguarded lives and nurtured integration. We remain committed to advancing a community where refugees and asylum seekers can rebuild with confidence, knowing their rights, accessing essential support, and feeling truly welcome. We thank all partners, supporters, and our community for making this vital work possible. ## **Peace of Mind CIO Financial Statements For the period 1[st] January 2024 to 31[st] December 2024** ## **Charity Number: 1194752 Registered Office:** Methodist Church Whitehall Road Gateshead Tyne & Wear NE8 4LH **Date CIO registered** : 10[th] June 2021 ## **Core Purpose of CIO:** The objectives of the CIO are to relieve the needs of those granted refugee status or those seeking asylum and their dependents living (temporarily or permanently) in Gateshead and Newcastle, and the surrounding areas by: - a) relieving poverty or financial hardship in particular, but not exclusively, by the provision of advice, translating, education, emergency food packs, small grants, household, and personal care items. - b) the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure-time occupations with the object of improving the conditions of life of those persons who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship, or social and economic circumstances. ## **Trustees:** Nida Muzaffar Rifat Farrukh Siddiqi Tanveer Shuja Mahnoor Mansoor Babar Sultan – appointed 15[th] April 2024 This report has been agreed at the Peace of Mind CIO board meeting on 17th October 2025. It is signed by Rifit Siddiqi on behalf of the board. This leaves a balance of £58,902 unrestricted funds, which is in line with the charity’s policy of keeping reserves of around 25% of unrestricted annual spend (including restricted funds). Financial Statement: l thnuary 2024to 31 December 2024 Income and Expenditure R•strlrt•d Unr•strict•d Tot•1 Incom• Grants Donations £258.891 £258.891 £29,340 £288231 £29,340 £29,340 £258,891 Exp•ns•s 8eneficiary support Volunteer Expenses Premises Costs Facilitator Fees Professional Fees £126.214 £5,295 £20,957 £66,906 £1,755 £221.127 Surplus for 2024 £67,105 Balance Sheet as at 31°, December 2024 Net Assets Cash at Bank Less- Creditors £235,541 £4.OCLI £231,541 Capltal & Reserves Surplus blfwd 1st January 2024 Surplus generated in 2024 Balance clfwd 31st December 2024 £164,436 £67,105 £231,541 •• peace of mind, Side by side with refugees ¢4-: ## **Peace of Mind CIO - Annual Report January 2024 - December 2024** ## **Foreword** The year 2024 presented immense challenges for refugees and asylum seekers, with rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures compounding everyday hardships. The increasingly hostile political climate was sharply felt, especially following the distressing riots in August, which spread anxiety and disrupted lives among our RAS community. Amid this turbulent backdrop, Peace of Mind CIO intensified its focus on wellbeing, hardship support, empowerment, and skills-building, positioning itself as a cornerstone for resilience and integration. Our strengthened partnerships, including vital collaboration with Northumbria Police and Gateshead Public Health, enabled us to respond effectively during and after the riots, ensuring safety and reassurance for vulnerable individuals. Through education, advocacy, and practical assistance, we have worked tirelessly to foster a cohesive, inclusive community where refugees and asylum seekers can reclaim dignity and hope. ## **Chair’s Message** “Empowerment, solidarity, and compassion have been our guiding lights through a demanding year.” 2024 tested the strength of every person involved with Peace of Mind CIO. Inflation pushed families deeper into hardship, while the riots brought fear and uncertainty. At the same time, a constantly evolving and often hostile political landscape around asylum and refugees added further complexity and anxiety, making our work to provide support and hope even more essential. We rose to these challenges by expanding hardship relief, embedding wellbeing at the heart of our work, and amplifying education and advocacy efforts to ensure everyone knew and could exercise their rights. Our partnership with Northumbria Police and local stakeholders during the riots was key to safeguarding our community and rebuilding trust. I pay tribute to the resilience of beneficiaries, volunteers, staff, and partners whose collective efforts have transformed adversity into opportunity. Together, we are building stronger, more integrated communities and we stand ready to continue this vital mission in the years ahead. ## **Our Mission and Values** Founded in 2014 as a refugee-led organisation, Peace of Mind CIO remains steadfast in its commitment to relieve hardship and champion inclusion with a trauma-informed and culturally respectful approach. We enable refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their lives through practical support, education, skills development, advice, and advocacy, anchored in dignity, respect, and empowerment. ## **Core Purpose of CIO** The objects of the CIO are to relieve the needs of those granted refugee status or those seeking asylum and their dependents living (temporarily or permanently) in Gateshead and Newcastle, and the surrounding areas by: 1. Relieving poverty or financial hardship in particular, but not exclusively, by the provision of advice, translating, education, emergency food packs, small grants, household, and personal care items. 2. The provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure-time occupation with the object of improving the conditions of life of those persons who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship, or social and economic circumstances. Building on this core purpose, the following strategic aims outline the key priorities and objectives through which Peace of Mind CIO seeks to deliver meaningful and lasting impact for refugees, asylum seekers, and their families in our community. ## **Strategic Aims** - Deliver immediate relief from poverty, hunger, and social isolation through culturally appropriate support and emergency aid. - Promote wellbeing through dedicated health, mental health, and social engagement programmes. - Provide education and skills-building opportunities that foster independence and promote integration into the local community. - Offer welfare advice and advocacy to empower individuals in understanding and exercising their rights, navigating the complex benefits system, and addressing intricate personal circumstances. - Facilitate digital inclusion as a vital means of connection, learning, and opportunity. - Foster community cohesion and integration by creating welcoming spaces that encourage dialogue, mutual support, and cultural exchange. - Collaborate with statutory and voluntary sector partners to influence policies and practices in ways that improve the experiences of refugees and asylum seekers. ## **What We Do** Our broad spectrum of interconnected services is designed to meet the immediate needs and longer-term aspirations of our beneficiaries, guiding them from crisis to greater stability, wellbeing, and integration. - Weekly drop-in sessions offer emotional support, tailored guidance, and help connecting with essential resources. - Welfare advice and advocacy provide beneficiaries with expert support and guidance to navigate the complex benefits system, address intricate personal circumstances, understand immigration processes, and access essential health and social care services. - Digital inclusion initiatives supply devices, SIM cards, connectivity support, and digital skills training, empowering families to overcome isolation and participate fully in modern society and essential services. - Emergency provision ensures access to culturally appropriate food parcels, clothing, school uniforms, hygiene kits, and newborn essentials for those facing acute need. - Warm Spaces create safe, welcoming venues during colder months and times of crisis, reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing within the community. - English language programmes (including Basic, Advanced, and Women-only classes) build confidence, enhance communication, and support employability. - Recreational holiday activities engage families and children in enriching experiences alongside nutritious, culturally sensitive meals, nurturing children’s health, development, and social inclusion. - Wellbeing activities include mental health workshops, peer support groups, recreational outings, and resilience-building sessions tailored specifically for parents and young people, promoting emotional strength and social connection. - Education and skills workshops deliver sessions on rights awareness, job readiness, language development, and personal growth, fostering empowerment and independence. - Know Your Rights workshops equip refugees and asylum seekers with practical knowledge about their legal entitlements and protections, delivered in accessible, multilingual formats. - Collaborative safety initiatives include our close partnership with Northumbria Police and local agencies during the August riots, ensuring a coordinated crisis response and building community trust. Together, these services establish a comprehensive path from vulnerability towards empowerment, dignity, and full participation in community life. ## **Context and Key Challenges** In 2024, the UK faced sustained economic pressures as inflation remained persistently above the Bank of England’s 2% target. Rising costs across food, energy, and utilities exacerbated household financial strain, driving many families further into deprivation and intensifying the ongoing cost of living crisis. By the end of the year, over half of UK households reported escalating financial difficulties. These economic hardships were compounded by an increasingly fraught political and social environment, culminating in the August riots. This unrest heightened trauma and threatened the fragile fabric of community cohesion. Refugees, asylum seekers, and other vulnerable groups bore the brunt of these shocks, facing increased insecurity amid systemic uncertainties. The constant arrival of new refugee and asylum-seeking families in 2024, with over 108,000 asylum claims made, the highest on record since 1979, meant that demand for support and services remained consistently high throughout the year. With a large number being dispersed in the North East region, we had multiple contacts from across the area, including Durham and Stockton, reflecting broad regional need. Peace of Mind CIO responded with agility and resolve, expanding hardship interventions and mental health support services while enhancing digital access to bridge information and service gaps. We intensified rights education and advocacy programmes to empower individuals navigating complex systems under stressful circumstances. Our close partnership with Nicola Turnbull from Northumbria Police enabled a coordinated protection strategy for vulnerable populations during periods of unrest. Additionally, our collaboration with Gateshead Public Health strengthened holistic wellbeing initiatives, reinforcing efforts to nurture resilience and sustain integration. Collectively, these measures reinforced community solidarity and safeguarded progress towards cohesion and inclusion during an exceptionally challenging year. ## **Volunteers: Pillars of Our Work** Our dedicated team of 28 volunteers brought invaluable skills and compassion, particularly in translation, cultural mediation, and trauma-informed support. Ongoing training upheld safeguarding standards and enriched volunteer capacity to engage meaningfully with complex beneficiary needs. ## **Partnership and Advocacy** Peace of Mind CIO plays a vital role in regional and national advocacy networks. Key collaborative highlights include: - Strategic partnerships with Gateshead Public Health, Housing and Education Departments, and local charities addressing food justice and child poverty. - Engagement with asylum system reform coalitions advocating for fair treatment based on lived experience. - Work alongside Northumbria Police during the riots to safeguard community wellbeing, enhance trust, and restore safety. - Contribution to regional poverty and inclusion summits, influencing policy and practice for vulnerable populations. ## **Community Engagement and Advocacy** Throughout 2024, Peace of Mind CIO undertook a range of important initiatives to strengthen community cohesion, highlight the contributions of refugees, and encourage cultural understanding. Our Refugee Week celebrations provided a vibrant opportunity to raise awareness of the invaluable role refugees play in our society, fostering a spirit of inclusion and collective appreciation. We organised Gateshead’s first inclusive Warm Space Iftar, bringing together diverse communities in a shared setting that promoted unity and cultural exchange. Our lifesaving skills workshops offered essential safety training to parents, while children took part in supervised recreational activities, creating safe environments for learning and social interaction during a period of increased community tension. Central to our empowerment work are the “Know Your Rights” workshops, held in several languages. These sessions provide clear and accessible information on immigration laws, enabling refugees and asylum seekers to navigate systems with confidence and assert their entitlements. On a broader scale, we contributed to national advocacy campaigns such as the Warm Welcome initiative and championed reforms to the asylum system, translating local experiences into wider policy change. ## **Visits and Key Stakeholders** - Nitin Shukla, Programme Lead for Hate and Equality at Northumbria Police, offered valuable guidance on promoting inclusivity and community cohesion, especially following the disturbances in August. - Mayor Kath McCartney engaged directly with community members, listening to their stories and offering hope through genuine connection. - Councillors Kathryn Donovan, Denise Robson, and Kathryn Henderson have been active supporters, regularly visiting our drop-in sessions, providing donations, and maintaining strong relationships with the people we support. - Peter Udall, Strategic Director for Economy, Innovation and Growth, toured our Warm Space to gain a deeper understanding of the practical support we offer during times of crisis. ## **Broader Engagement and Advocacy** - Inspired by leaders such as Amanda Bailey of the North East Child Poverty Commission and Louise Jones, founder of Support and Grow NE, Peace of Mind CIO integrates humanist values into its advocacy, focusing on addressing the underlying causes of poverty and promoting social justice. - Participation in the Gateshead Food Summit enabled us to shape discussions on food justice, community health, and local economic resilience. - Our active role at the North East Child Poverty Summit reinforced our dedication to tackling entrenched regional inequalities, with a strong focus on children’s wellbeing. - To enhance organisational capacity, our senior leadership completed the “Lead the Way” programme, funded by the Virgin Money Foundation. This training has strengthened our strategic planning, adaptive leadership, and long-term impact. - At the national level, Peace of Mind CIO joined a coalition of over 300 organisations campaigning for urgent reform of the asylum system, advocating for policies that uphold human dignity and fairness within the immigration process. ## **Impact** - Deepened understanding of poverty’s effects on vulnerable communities, encouraging compassionate policy reforms. - Advanced conversations on food justice, public health, and economic inclusion through regional summits. - Reinforced inclusivity, diversity, and community integration through local stakeholder engagement. - Provided vital aid including food, clothing, toys, educational materials, and hygiene items to more than 2,400 families and individuals. - Contributed to systemic reform proposals ensuring fair and humane treatment for asylum seekers and refugees. - Celebrated cultural richness through Refugee Week and other community events. - Supported children with school uniforms, recreational activities, and confidence-building opportunities. - Prioritised safety and mental wellbeing during times of increased risk, helping communities recover and flourish. - Increased visibility and credibility nationally and locally through awards, recognition, and media coverage. ## **Achievements and Recognition** - Refugee Support Organisation of the Year 2024 in North East England. - Best Refugee-Led Charity 2023, awarded by SME Northern Enterprise for leadership, innovation, and impact. - Featured prominently in the 2024 Warm Welcome Campaign Impact Report, showcasing our community-driven approach and best practice. ## **Impact in Numbers** The Number of Families and Individuals Supported in 2024 - Gateshead: 1,045 - Newcastle upon Tyne: 332 - Other areas: 153 In 2024, Peace of Mind CIO proudly supported 1,530 separate households, representing 4,778 individuals from 39 diverse nationalities across Gateshead, Newcastle, and surrounding communities. This amounted to 8,372 contact episodes throughout the year, reflecting the significant and growing need for both emotional and practical support. Our comprehensive support package included welfare and benefits advice, assistance with form-filling, homelessness support, emergency food and hygiene supplies, weather-appropriate clothing, school uniforms, newborn essentials, baby buggies, household items, and small furniture pieces. In 2024, we distributed: - 5,340 emergency food parcels - 2,309 hot meals through our Warm Space initiative - 2,638 hygiene parcels Peace of Mind CIO supported individuals from 39 nationalities during the past year. ## **Our Year in Numbers** - 8,372 contact episodes recorded across our services - 4,778 individuals supported directly or indirectly - 413 SIM cards and 59 digital devices distributed to reduce isolation - 108 wellbeing sessions focusing on mental health, peer support, and emotional resilience - 25 education and skills-building workshops promoting empowerment and integration - 126 individuals supported to learn English through weekly conversational classes - 59 women attended English language classes - 273 individuals received direct welfare advocacy to secure access to services and protect rights - 29 young people supported through volunteering opportunities - 237 refugee and asylum-seeking children engaged in holiday activities addressing hunger and social isolation - 1,880 hot meals provided to children during the Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays when school meals were unavailable ## **Christmas Support 2024** During the festive season, we ensured 381 children woke up on Christmas Day with a gift of their own, helping them feel included and valued alongside their peers. Additionally, 202 adults received Christmas gifts and food hampers, bringing much-needed relief and joy during this challenging time of the year. ## **Beneficiary Voices** Our beneficiaries’ words reveal the profound impact of our work: - “During the riots, Peace of Mind’s team was there like a shield, helping me feel safe when everything around was uncertain.” - “Learning about my rights here helped me gain confidence. I now know how to reach out for help.” - “Thanks to the digital support, I was able to connect with my children overseas and access healthcare appointments online.” - “The wellbeing sessions gave me a place to share my worries and find strength in others who understand.” - “The food parcels and warm meals kept my family fed when money was tight. It meant more than just food; it meant care.” - “Volunteering here has helped me heal, learn, and give back. It has changed my life.” ## **Survey Findings 2024** Our latest survey data shines light on evolving needs and the deepening trust in our services: - 97% agreed that weekly drop-ins provide essential emotional and practical support essential to their wellbeing. - 95% reported that welfare advice gave them clearer understanding and better access to benefits and healthcare. - 93% valued digital inclusion initiatives as key to overcoming isolation and staying connected. - 90% credited wellbeing programmes with reducing stress and loneliness. - 89% of women said women-only sessions empowered them personally and socially. - 89% felt holiday activities helped children maintain social ties and feel part of the community. - 85% cited education and skills workshops as critical to their growing independence. - 83% confirmed that advocacy support improved mental health and confidence. - 80% underscored culturally appropriate food provision as fundamental to enduring hardship. ## **Looking Ahead to 2025** Our vision for 2025 is to deepen our holistic support for refugees and asylum seekers through intensified hardship relief, empowerment-focused education, expanded community cohesion initiatives, and stronger advocacy. We will continue to build on our trusted partnerships and cultivate lived experience voices in governance and strategy, creating an even more inclusive North East where everyone belongs and thrives. ## **Conclusion** In 2024, a year shaped by economic hardship and social unrest, Peace of Mind CIO stood as a beacon of hope, dignity, and practical support. Our strengthened services, dedicated volunteers, and strategic collaborations, especially with Northumbria Police and local agencies, have safeguarded lives and nurtured integration. We remain committed to advancing a community where refugees and asylum seekers can rebuild with confidence, knowing their rights, accessing essential support, and feeling truly welcome. We thank all partners, supporters, and our community for making this vital work possible. ## **Peace of Mind CIO Financial Statements For the period 1[st] January 2024 to 31[st] December 2024** ## **Charity Number: 1194752 Registered Office:** Methodist Church Whitehall Road Gateshead Tyne & Wear NE8 4LH **Date CIO registered** : 10[th] June 2021 ## **Core Purpose of CIO:** The objectives of the CIO are to relieve the needs of those granted refugee status or those seeking asylum and their dependents living (temporarily or permanently) in Gateshead and Newcastle, and the surrounding areas by: - a) relieving poverty or financial hardship in particular, but not exclusively, by the provision of advice, translating, education, emergency food packs, small grants, household, and personal care items. - b) the provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure-time occupations with the object of improving the conditions of life of those persons who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship, or social and economic circumstances. ## **Trustees:** Nida Muzaffar Rifat Farrukh Siddiqi Tanveer Shuja Mahnoor Mansoor Babar Sultan – appointed 15[th] April 2024 This report has been agreed at the Peace of Mind CIO board meeting on 17th October 2025. It is signed by Rifit Siddiqi on behalf of the board. This leaves a balance of £58,902 unrestricted funds, which is in line with the charity’s policy of keeping reserves of around 25% of unrestricted annual spend (including restricted funds). Financial Statement: l thnuary 2024to 31 December 2024 Income and Expenditure R•strlrt•d Unr•strict•d Tot•1 Incom• Grants Donations £258.891 £258.891 £29,340 £288231 £29,340 £29,340 £258,891 Exp•ns•s 8eneficiary support Volunteer Expenses Premises Costs Facilitator Fees Professional Fees £126.214 £5,295 £20,957 £66,906 £1,755 £221.127 Surplus for 2024 £67,105 Balance Sheet as at 31°, December 2024 Net Assets Cash at Bank Less- Creditors £235,541 £4.OCLI £231,541 Capltal & Reserves Surplus blfwd 1st January 2024 Surplus generated in 2024 Balance clfwd 31st December 2024 £164,436 £67,105 £231,541 ## Independent Examiners Report ## Independent Examiner's Report to Peace of Mind CIO I report on the accounts of Peace of Mind CIO for the year 1st January 2024 to 31[st] December 2024, which are summarised in the charity’s 2024 Annual Report. ## Respective responsibilities of the Trustees of Peace of Mind CIO The Trustees of Peace of Mind CIO are responsible for keeping proper financial records, including invoices, receipts and bank and other income statements. My responsibility is to review these, along with the accounts and state whether any particular matters have come to my attention. ## Basis of independent examiner's report An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by Peace of Mind CIO and verification of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from the Trustees of Peace of Mind CIO concerning any such matters. ## Independent examiner's statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention, which gives me reasonable cause to believe that the requirements to keep proper accounting records and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records have been fully met. Signed: Name: David Beavis Relevant qualification: Independent Accountant Address: Pinetree Business Services, Birtley Business Centre, Station Lane, Birtley, Chester-le-Street, Co. Durham DH3 1QT Date: 27/10/2025