## **Trustee report Whitehead Small World Group** Charity number NIC107405 68 Raw Brae Rd Whitehead BT38 9SZ ## **Financial year April 2022- March 2023** ## **Trustees** Mr James Macauley Dr John Campbell Barnett Dr Geraldine Scott_Heyes Dr Judith De Fleury Dr Geraint Ellis Ms Jane Robb The charity is a company limited by guarantee, Company number NI650951 ## **Main activities carried out** Our charity exists to support refugees and asylum seekers in Northern Ireland, specifically to support the family we brought to Whitehead under the Community Sponsorship scheme. This family arrived in September 2019. In this year we have provided practical and emotional support by- Giving advice re employment opportunities and encouraging and facilitating volunteer and employment. The father in our family has been seeking employment, has undertaken training and is now part time employed, within the constraints of his visa and limitations in relation to the benefits the family are currently receiving. We have supported members of the family to pass a UK citizenship test and driving theory test. Ensuring the children are settling well in school and providing help with homework and facilitating communication with the school. Providing support and help with transport for medical and dental appointments. Providing support and advice in making medical and other appointments. Providing advice and support in dealing with statutory agencies, specifically helping them deal with Universal credit and concerns re overpayment. Working with the local food bank to help with food deliveries as these were needed. Providing opportunities to develop skills in English of the family we are hosting and of other refugee families in the area by running ESOL class in Whitehead. This also provides social support for these families. We have been working to help the refugee families integrate into the community. The family have been able to build close relationships with neighbours developed friendships independent of the support group. In compiling this report the trustees have had regard to the Commission’s Public benefit requirement statutory guidance. As of 31.12.2023 the charity had £635.28 in capital and reserves. Signed Geraint Ellis (Chair)