At Friends of the Drop in (FODI) Sunderland, we work alongside asylum seekers and refugees to reduce isolation, improve mental health and help people feel at home in their new city.
Many of our service users arrive in Sunderland having fled conflict, persecution or instability; they’re far from their families and often with limited resources. We exist to ensure no one must rebuild their life alone, for many we are their first friendly point of contact.
Since November 2011 FODI has helped hundreds of people from the refuge community feel safe, valued and part of Sunderland. Today we achieve this through a team of three paid staff members, 32 volunteers, and our funders and supporters.
In 2024-2025 there were 825 asylum seekers living in Sunderland, with FODI helping over 90%. For most we were their first point of contact, which also involves us in working with 30 partners.
Since 2018, FODI has supported asylum seekers and refugees with practical assistance, community connections, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
Over this time, we have supported 283 families, reaching 1,550 individuals through our programmes, services, and partnerships.
This incredible asylum seeking community of men, women and families are from 41 countries, speaking 25 different languages. Read their case studies here and please support us by making a donation.
OUR IMPACT 2025
In 2025, we continued to support newly arrived families and individuals with essential services, community activities, and educational opportunities.
Supporting New Arrivals:
- 49 newly arrived families supported
- 199 individuals supported
These families received help navigating life in the UK, accessing services, and becoming part of the local community.
Community Support
Weekly Drop-in Sessions
- 50 Wednesday drop-in sessions
- 150 people attended on average each week
Our drop-ins provide a welcoming space where people can access advice, food, clothing, and social support.
Food Support
- 27 food bank sessions
- 120 food parcels distributed every month
This support helps families facing financial hardship meet their basic needs.
Wellbeing and Activities
Women’s Wellbeing
- 35 women’s group sessions
These sessions support physical health, mental well-being, and social connection by providing a safe and cosy space for women to enjoy yoga, crafts, cooking, and dancing.
Christmas gifts
- 350 Christmas gifts given to children
Helping ensure children in our community experience joy during the holiday season.
Practical Support
Transport and Mobility
- 78 adult bicycles distributed
Bikes help people travel to college, appointments, volunteering opportunities, and essential services.
Education and Integration
English Language Learning
- 12 hours of ESOL classes every week
Our English classes help people gain confidence, improve communication, and access opportunities.
Partnership Working
FODI works collaboratively with 30 partner organisations to deliver coordinated support across the community.
These partnerships allow us to provide more comprehensive services and reach more people in need.
Success Stories
From Isolation to Belonging
When Farkhunda Nawzadi arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker, everything she once knew had changed. Back home, she was a successful and capable woman with a strong sense of identity. In her new country, however, she felt invisible—isolated, uncertain, and reduced to “just a number” in an unfamiliar system.
Despite these challenges, Farkhunda carried a strong determination. She wanted to rebuild her life, stand on her own feet, and become an active and contributing member of her new society.