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2025-04-05-annual-report

15/12/2025

Trustee Annual Report

During the reporting year, OSSIR continued to deliver consistent and impactful communitybased support to refugees and asylum seekers, with a strong focus on social inclusion, wellbeing, education, and integration.

Weekly community gatherings were held every Friday, providing a safe, welcoming, and culturally inclusive space for refugees and asylum seekers. These sessions combined shared meals with structured educational discussions and informal social interaction. Participants received guidance on available statutory and voluntary services, practical advice to support integration into local communities, and information to help them navigate everyday challenges.

A range of extracurricular and recreational activities took place during these gatherings, including card games, table tennis, and other small group activities designed to encourage social connection, peer support, and positive mental wellbeing. Attendance at these weekly sessions averaged approximately 110 participants per month, demonstrating sustained engagement and strong community trust.

Throughout the year, OSSIR organised eight community trips and family day-out events aimed at reducing social isolation and strengthening inclusion with the wider local community. These events included outdoor barbeques, music, and games, and provided families with valuable opportunities to relax, socialise, and build meaningful connections in an inclusive environment. Importantly, all trips were delivered at zero financial cost to the organisation. Meals were prepared and shared by OSSIR members, celebrating cultural diversity, while transport arrangements were made independently by participants. This approach ensured maximum impact without placing any financial burden on OSSIR.

The OSSIR platform was also used to deliver targeted educational sessions on essential topics such as basic criminal law, personal safety, security awareness, and individual rights and responsibilities. Members were signposted to pathways into education, training opportunities, and relevant support services to support long-term independence and integration.

OSSIR maintained a strong focus on financial sustainability throughout the year. By encouraging shared responsibility and community contribution, operational expenses were kept to a minimum. The collective preparation and sharing of meals not only reduced costs but also strengthened community bonds, promoted cultural exchange, and reinforced a sense of ownership among members.

Overall, OSSIR’s activities during the year demonstrated effective governance, strong community engagement, and efficient use of resources. The trustees remain committed to building on this success and continuing to deliver high-quality, inclusive support to refugees and asylum seekers in the year ahead.

Elfatih Fimehina Founder Ay wa rll hippie ALE ATI? EC! ie