2024-12-28-accounts

UNIÃO DA COMUNIDADE ANGOLANA NO REINO UNIDO

Vintage House, 36-37 Albert Embankment, London, Greater London, SE1 7TL Charity & Company number: 1201463 – CE031057

Union of the Angolan Community in the United Kingdom (UARU) Annual Report 2024 - 2025**

Period End: January 2025

1. Introduction

This trustee’s report presents an overview of the activities and achievements of the Union of the Angolan Community in the United Kingdom (UARU) for the period from February 2024 to January 2025. Throughout this year, UARU has remained dedicated to its mission of empowering individuals and families within the Angolan community, particularly in the London Borough of Lambeth. Our focus has been on delivering essential services, fostering social inclusion, and celebrating our rich cultural heritage. Despite encountering financial challenges, we have made notable progress in supporting our community through various programs and initiatives.

2. Our Mission

Our mission is to empower individuals and families in the UK, primarily within the London Borough of Lambeth, to achieve their full potential by providing accessible community services. We envision a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

3. Programs and Services

UARU offers a diverse range of services tailored to meet the various needs of our community, including:

Advice and Information: Guidance on housing, health, social security benefits, and employment opportunities.

Education: education through supplementary schooling for children and support.

Union of Angolans in the United Kingdom (UARU) Is a charity registered in England and Wales (1201463) Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]

Advocacy and Casework: Assisting individuals and families in navigating complex systems and advocating for their rights.

Social Inclusion: Preventing social exclusion, alleviating the needs of those who are socially excluded, and aiding integration into society.

Emotional Support and Counselling: Providing support to bereaved families and facilitating reconciliation.

Legal Support: Offering translation, form-filling assistances, and connecting community members with professional legal advice.

Cultural and Sports Events: Organising events to celebrate Angolan culture and promote physical well-being.

4. Activities and Achievements

4.1 Community Support and Wellbeing

Provided emotional support and counselling to 16 bereaved families, including home visits and assistance with daily tasks.

Facilitated 3 reconciliation events to promote understanding and harmony within families and the community.

Assisted 16 individuals with referrals and document preparation for various needs.

Intervened in 4 social help cases, providing support for accommodation and form-filling.

Advised and assisted 8 families with diverse needs.

4.2 Education and Empowerment

Supported 8 individuals with university enrolment, with guidance from career advisors.

4.3 Cultural and Sports Activities

Organized inaugural UARU football and basketball tournaments, engaging over 100 individuals and families.

Hosted 2 events celebrating significant Angolan historical dates, showcasing music and dance, attended by over 60 participants.

Conducted workshops and forums for 16–24-year-olds focused on skills and employment topics.

Union of Angolans in the United Kingdom (UARU) Is a charity registered in England and Wales (1201463) Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]

Organised 3 social events and 1 workshop featuring 2 motivational speakers.

4.4 Legal Support

Facilitated access to legal advice through collaboration with professional lawyers, providing necessary translation and form-filling assistance.

6. Unachieved Activities

Due to financial constrains, the planed establishment of the Angolan Community Centre could not be realised. This center would have serves as a vital hub for community activities and support.

7. Community Enragement and Partnership

Strengthened relationships with other community organizations, including UDOA, LPWP, and Lambeth and Enfield VCS.

Increased community awareness through social media, leaflets, local newspapers, and seminars.

Recognized by community members for contributions to the community.

8. Conclusion

UARU has played an integral role in supporting the Angolan community in the UK over the past year. We have provided essential services, fostered social inclusion, and celebrated our cultural heritage. Despite facing financial challenges, we have made significant strides in achieving our mission. We remain committed to empowering our community and will continue to seek funding and partnerships to expand our programs and services, with a particular focus on establishing the Angolan Community Centre, a potential cornerstone for our community.

9. Future Plans

Continue to provide and expand essential services in education, welfare, and legal support.

Actively pursue funding opportunities to establish the Angolan Community Centre.

Enhance community engagement through increased use of digital platforms and outreach initiatives.

Maintain community cohesion through cultural and sports events.

Union of Angolans in the United Kingdom (UARU) Is a charity registered in England and Wales (1201463) Email: [e-mail]

Phone: [phone]

10. Acknowledgements

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the National Lottery Community Care Grants, our community contributors, and all our volunteers and partners for their valuable support.

Union of Angolans in the United Kingdom (UARU) Is a charity registered in England and Wales (1201463) Email: [e-mail] Phone: [phone]