In 2020-21... We employed over
300 5,934
We supported
young people like Cara
“I turned to Extern’s Youth Engagement Service after a traumatic experience in my life. From the very beginning Extern gave me a safe space to discuss my feelings; they helped me find coping mechanisms and how to understand and deal with my triggers. The advice and support they gave me was amazing. Now I don’t let the trauma I experienced control me and I’m less stressed and anxious in social situations. With Extern it’s about the little things too – my most special memory was when one of the team brought me a bag of treats and some mindfulness activities to keep me busy during lockdown. It cheered me up so much when I was feeling low. When I was being supported by Extern I always felt like I could open up in confidence and express how I was feeling without fear of being judged. They were there for me when I needed them most.”
8 I
EXTERN NORTHERN IRELAND ANNUAL REPORT // 2020-21
fantastic staff like Patrick
“There are many reasons why people want to work for Extern. For me it was about having the opportunity to really change lives for the better. So many of the people we support through the Northern Ireland Refugee Resettlement Scheme have experienced trauma after fleeing conflict. They need a place of calm and safety to allow for self-reflection and to rebuild their lives. We provide a familiar, friendly face throughout their resettlement, as they begin to develop their own confidence and independence. Through listening, understanding and empathising we gain important knowledge and understanding of the cultural and religious practices within their communities. Seeing the people we support grow and flourish in their new lives is the most rewarding thing of all, as they settle into jobs, education and community life. That’s what makes Extern so unique and special, we see the people behind the problem, and their potential to find a better life for themselves.”
