It is with great pride and gratitude that I present this year's annual report for Building Bridges in Burnley (BBB). This has been another fantastic year where our volunteers, trustees, and leadership team have worked tirelessly in partnership with key organisations to promote understanding and harmony across Burnley and Lancashire.

Our schools programme continues to thrive, with significant improvements in delivery, including the introduction of a revised Service Level Agreement (SLA) to support consistency and impact. The "Faith Friends" initiative is now operating in one of our secondary schools with encouraging feedback and outcomes. Our visits to places of worship remain one of our most successful and well-received initiatives. We extend our deepest thanks to our faith communities for their continued and generous support.

This year's interfaith calendar has been marked by a number of successful events, most notably our participation in Interfaith Week and Remembrance Day. A particular highlight was the incredible turnout at our Annual Dinner and Community Iftar. The addition of a nasheed choir featuring pupils from two local primary schools added a joyful and uplifting spirit to the evening.

We are immensely proud to have received the King's Award for Voluntary Service this year.

This prestigious accolade not only recognises our current achievements but also honours the vision and dedication of our founding members. It is a reflection of the enduring impact of our work in fostering community cohesion.

Over the years, Building Bridges in Burnley has become a key partner for the borough and a trusted voice on matters of cohesion - both strategically and at a grassroots level. We are proud to be the organisation many turn to for guidance and support during challenging times.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has had a ripple effect on local relationships.

However, the resilience and unity of our volunteers in responding with compassion and dialogue stands as a powerful testament to the strength of our work and the values we uphold.

We also reflect on our role in the aftermath of the Southport riots. This moment served as a litmus test for the work of BBB. Two decades ago, Burnley experienced its own challenges, but the absence of unrest in our town during this difficult period shows how far we've come.

It is proof of the bridges built and the trust nurtured over 22 years.

We look forward with great excitement to the next chapter of our journey: taking on the Canalside Community Centre and transforming it into a Community Faith Hub — a vibrant, inclusive space for all and a permanent home for BBB.

We also take this opportunity to thank our outgoing trustees and volunteers for their incredible service, and warmly welcome our new trustees and directors who will carry the torch forward.

None of our achievements would be possible without the commitment and generosity of our supporters. We extend heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers, trustees, and partners, including Burnley Borough Council, Burnley FC in the Community, our schools, faith groups, and most importantly - the young people who inspire us every day.

Together, we continue to build bridges of hope, peace, and understanding.

Chairman

Building Bridges in Burnley

Afrasiab Anwar MBE