Sanctuary in Chichester recently held its Annual General Meeting at The Vicar’s Hall, marking a year of significant progress and setting the stage for future challenges and opportunities. Members received the annual report and an update on the charity’s finances. All current trustees were elected to continue for another year and members welcomed a new trustee Dr Waleed Hussein.

Key highlights of the AGM other than the trustee election included substantial growth described in updates on the drop-in and the befriending programme, the launch of a schools liaison project, and an outline of how we are responding to the evolving needs of beneficiaries with the designation of a local hotel to house asylum seekers.

Tony Toynton, said of the meeting: “It was lovely to get together with fellow trustees, volunteers, and staff to look back on a very busy year for our charity and then set out our plans to meet the significant challenges we’re already facing in this current year. It also allowed me to thank everyone for their amazing support to refugees and asylum seekers in the Chichester area.”

Looking Forward

As Sanctuary in Chichester moves into another year, the AGM served as a reminder of the charity’s vital role in the community. The dedication of its volunteers and staff, coupled with the support of the community, continues to make a profound difference in the lives of those seeking refuge and a new start in Chichester.