We are proud to mark the completion of Rays of Hope, Sunbeams’ three-year programme funded through a London Propel Deliver and Develop Grant from April 2023 to March 2026.

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During these three years, the programme provided culturally sensitive, non-clinical early support to 479 Orthodox Jewish girls, and in many cases their families. More than 200 volunteer mentors delivered over 21,000 one-to-one mentoring sessions and almost 1,200 activity-based group sessions.

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Behind these figures are hundreds ofpersonal journeys. Girls came to Sunbeams feeling anxious, isolated oroverwhelmed by difficulties at home or school. Through a steady mentoring relationship, creative activities and safe peer groups, many became calmer,more confident and better able to manage challenges.

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Of the girls who completed detailedfeedback, 97% said they felt happier since starting Sunbeams and 94% saidsessions helped them feel calmer. One staff member described the change simply:

“When girls start, they’re shy, unsure,weary. Then slowly they blossom.”

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Rays of Hope also enabled Sunbeams to grow beyond individual mentoring. We developed group programmes, strengthened parentsupport and created the Youth Network, where girls could share their experiences and influence services.

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Our work with schools expanded through the Mental Health Network of 22 Orthodox Jewish girls’ schools and the Improving Wellbeing at School programme in five schools. These programmes helped staff strengthen wellbeing systems, respond earlier and build greater confidence around pupils’ emotional needs.

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An independent evaluation by Charlotte Deanof A5cend Ltd explored the programme’s impact on girls, families, mentors,schools and local partners. It found that Sunbeams had become an important bridge between families, community organisations and statutory mental health services.

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The evaluation concluded that early, trusted relationships can prevent difficulties from escalating, particularly when mentoring is connected with family support, schools and wider services.

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We are deeply grateful to London Propel and its partners for making these three years possible. Rays of Hope has given Sunbeams stronger evidence, deeper partnerships and a clearer foundation forthe future.

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