More people can join meaningful conversations about race, immigration, change and uncertainty thanks to a £200,000 grant.
Paul Hamlyn Foundation last week awarded Who is Your Neighbour? the money, to be spent over four years. The grant will support WiYN?’s open, curious dialogues held with white people around South Yorkshire - and help resource the charity’s aim to have this vital work replicated around the UK.
WiYN? Director Tariq Bashir welcomed the news, which comes at a time when the charity is growing, gaining attention and providing training and consultancy for more organisations.
Tariq said:
“I’m pleased we will carry on working with Paul Hamlyn Foundation.
We need conversations enabling people to talk about feeling uncertain - because the world is changing.”
He is not surprised about growing interest in the charity’s work, growth which has gathered pace since riots last summer in South Yorkshire and other places.
He added:
“In 2024, there was violence and attacks on people, and places where people live. For years, we have been working with frustration, worry and fear - making more space to talk about those things is important.”
Paul Hamlyn Foundation’s grant offer acknowledged that WiYN? is a respectful, deep-listening and reflective organisation that creates space for people to navigate emotions, hear different perspectives and identify what and who has participated in shaping their views.
The charity has existed as a project since 2010, holding conversations in which people might feel heard, experience moments of change and become curious about themselves and others. It has recently prioritised expanding this model through training and the grant helps this continue.
WiYN? Chair Teresa Gibson said:
“This is exciting - a new stage.”
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