International Community Organisation of Sunderland

Core Impact Numbers

Total People Supported: 848 individuals (*many who attended one off activities and events were not registered)

Intensive Support: 648 people received tailored one-to-one advice and advocacy.

General Support: Approximately 200 people participated in less intensive activities, such as wellbeing sessions.

Environmental Impact: Delivered roughly 50 environmental activity days through the East Rangers project, engaging 50 adults and numerous children.

Wellbeing Engagement: Delivered approximately 30 different wellbeing activities, ranging from coastal walks to kayaking and snowboarding.
Service Success Rates

You can highlight the effectiveness of ICOS programs with these improvement statistics:

Digital Inclusion: 65.6% of participants improved their digital confidence, and 62.5% improved their digital skills.

Mental Wellbeing: 51.7% of participants reported an improvement in their mental wellbeing.

Housing Stability: 44.1% of clients improved their housing situation through advocacy support.

General Confidence: 46.2% of individuals built higher self-efficacy and confidence.
Demographic Highlights

Geographic Reach: 6 out of 10 members are based in the consolidated Sunderland area, with others reached in Newcastle, Gateshead, and County Durham.

Vulnerable Groups: 32.8% of the membership consists of refugees and asylum seekers navigating the UK immigration system.

Linguistic Diversity: Support is provided across multiple languages, with Polish (264 speakers) and Arabic (117 speakers) being the most prominent.

“ICOS has helped me a lot, I have got help with English language classes with Monika and she is
an amazing teacher and helped to improve my language. I could not speak any English the first
time I came to ICOS and now I can speak and I understand much more, I can communicate. ICOS
has helped me with my CV and translation of certificates and a statement of comparability from
NARIC.

“I got a lot of help from ICOS, you provided me with financial advice, help with benefits, bus
tickets to work, employment support, CV, food safety course and English language classes.”

“Because of all this help, I am now starting accounting Level 1 at Gateshead College and can
continue to look at accounting jobs when I finish this course and go back to being an accountant.
My English has improved and now I’m ready to study functional skills.”

” All experiences brought a different knowledge for me and each has a meaningful impact in my life now. One of the experiences I will never forget is the Christmas event which brought together people with different races , values , beliefs or cultures . Significant 1.It created job opportunities for people 2.It promotes love and unity among different ethnic groups . 3. It created an avenue for learning different cultural values, norms and beliefs . 4 it’s a clear definition of passion for service , which can be seen in the behaviour of the entire team.”

“Volunteering with ICOS has been an incredibly rewarding experience. This experience has not only strengthened my confidence and personal growth, but also helped me gain valuable knowledge in administration. From the moment I joined, I was welcomed by such a kind and supportive community. The warmth and friendliness of the staff and the people I’ve met make me feel truly valued and connected. The staff are incredibly involved and extremely helpful with every case and event, always going above and beyond to support the community. It’s a great journey of learning,
growth and connection.”

Aleksandra