Our Impact 2025 - 2026CHURCHES HOUSING ACTION TEAM

We believe that everyone is entitled to decent, secure and affordable housing- somewhere to call home and we will challenge injustice wherever it is encountered.JUSTICECOMPASSION We act with kindness and love in bringing hope to those in need, hardship or distress. We believe in standing beside the people in our community so that they get the help and support they need. ADVOCACY DIGNITY We respect the people we work with, through seeking to be open and transparent and by building relationships based on trust. VISION AND VALUESOur vision is for no one in Mid Devon to be homeless or hungry. CHAT is founded on Christian principles and is accessible to all those in need. We aim to reduce homelessness and poverty through advice, support, advocacy, and empowerment.While this report includes many statistics and highlights our activities and achievements, it only tells part of CHAT's story over the last year. When I think about the impact we have achieved together, it isn't the numbers that come to mind. I think of the client who walked a little taller, the client who cried with relief when they realised they were finally debt free, or the Mum who was able to give her children Easter Eggs thanks to a donation to the foodbank having thought they were a luxury she couldnt afford. These are the stories that matter most. They're the moments that remind me why CHAT exists, and there are examples like them every single day. Behind every number in this report is a person who has received practical help, support and hope when they needed it most. I feel incredibly privileged to work alongside some truly remarkable people, and this report is a testament to the skill, compassion and commitment of both our staff and volunteers. I see every day the difference they make in people's lives. But none of this would be possible without you. Whether you support us through awarding a grant, food donations, partnership working, fundraising or giving a financial donation you are part of every one of these stories. Thank you for standing alongside us and helping us make a difference, one person at a time. Alison Padfield CEOAli Making a Difference Together

CLIENT ENGAGEMENT To raise awareness of CHAT’s work through proactive early intervention and by reducing barriers to ensure services are accessible to all. CLIENT MANAGEMENT To work with partner agencies to deliver high‑quality, accredited advice and support clients to overcome barriers to homelessness, debt and poverty. FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY To strengthen financial sustainability by maximising income streams and delivering effective fundraising and marketing strategies. PEOPLE AND CULTURE To value and empower staff and volunteers by building a diverse, well‑trained team and embedding lived experience across CHAT. GOVERNANCE, INFRASTRUCTURE & PROCESS To maintain a well‑governed charity through strong leadership, sound financial management and effective use of policies and resources. Our strategic focus provides a clear framework to guide our work, helping us stay effective, responsive and true to our mission. By strengthening these priorities, we aim to deliver meaningful, lasting change and support more individuals and families to build stable, hopeful futures. Our strategy is delivered through five key strategic priorities: OUR STRATEGY A Message from the ChairOver the past thirty years, we have observed significant transformations in our society. However, CHAT’s dedication to offering practical assistance, hope, and dignity to those in need within the Mid Devon area remains steadfast. The previous year has brought considerable challenges. Escalating living costs, housing availability pressures, and broader economic uncertainties have heightened the demand for our services at a time when resources in the charitable sector are increasingly strained. Nonetheless, CHAT has shown resilience, ensuring that essential support reaches those who require it. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our team of employees and volunteers. Their professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment exemplify the strength of community and Christian spirit that sustains us. On a personal note, I take great pride in being associated with CHAT and witnessing the profound impact we have on those we serve. However, this would not be possible without your support. Therefore, I want to extend my thanks to every donor, supporter, partner, and grant-making body who has made this work possible on behalf of each client who is represented in this report. Clive Williams Chair of TrusteesClive

8,197 advice sessions, 48% face to face2,284 clients worked with in Mid Devon (84%)2,449 new cases opened1344 emergency food packages3635 pantry visits410 debt and money cases£1,453,817 of debt written off20% people supported over the age of 651,067 additional vulnerability, 60% with multiple vulnerabilities56 rough sleepers supported85 supported through eviction proceedings275 helped move to more suitable accomodation154 given household starter packs£152,539 issued in Household Support Fund vouchersWe supported 2,723 people A SNAPSHOT OF OUR WORK LAST YEAR:

A Warm Welcome Our Tiverton office is open six days a week, with regular outreach sessions across Mid Devon and home visits available to ensure everyone can access our servicesFood@CHAT Providing emergency food in times of crisis, alongside an affordable food pantry to support those needing regular help.Benefits Advice Offering expert guidance to help clients navigate the benefits system and access the support they need to live independently.Debt and Money Delivering specialist, face-to-face advice to help clients manage debt and build a more resilient financial future.Housing Advice Supporting clients to find suitable, affordable housing and prevent homelessness by addressing tenancy challenges early.Homeless Services Providing practical support, including showers, laundry facilities, emergency supplies and help to secure accommodation.As Advice & Support Services Manager, I see how high‑quality support can transform lives. We help people who are facing many challenges by providing accessible, trusted, face‑to‑face advice that helps make sense of complex systems so they can feel more confident about their decisions. We have been proud to retain the Advice Quality Standard since 2014 and are always seeking to improve and develop our trauma‑informed, accessible services. Whether supporting housing, benefits, debt, or build confidence around money, our focus is on empowering people to move forward with dignity, resilience, and hope. Denise Henson, Advice and Support Services ManagerHOW YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A LASTING DIFFERENCE Every day, we support people across Mid Devon who are facing tough times. From emergency food and benefits advice to housing support and help for those experiencing homelessness, our services are there when they’re needed most. Here is an overview of how we support people to move towards independence with a safe place to call home and the financial resilience to manage everyday costs.Partnership Working Building strong relationships with partner organisations to connect clients with wider support, increasing engagement and improving outcomes. A lot of our clients have complex needs and all our services are trauma informed – ensuring that clients can get the help they need in the way they need it

1344 emergency food packages412 households used the foodbank200 emergency food packages given to those with No Fixed Abode£152,539 issued in Household Support Fund vouchers56 rough sleepers accessed support - shower, clothes washing, phone charging84% people visiting the Foodbank < 3 parcels, only 5% > 5“...I just want to thank you all again for the help that you've given me. It is — I can't tell you, it's been a lifeline...“Sadly we see people all too often that are at a point of crisis and do not have enough for the essentials of food and shelter. Our Foodbank provides emergency support with food and is open six days a week. Grant funding enabled us to purchase some food this year, but it is the generosity of individuals and businesses, together with collaboration between community groups to make the best use of surplus food, that makes this support possible. EMERGENCY PROVISION95% clients received foodbank less than 5 times We worked with Navigate CIO to administer the Household support fund for Mid Devon District Council ensuring vouchers for food and energy were distributed to those who need it most.

3635 pantry visits£4,000 est. value of household items333 households used the pantry, half of those have children70 households helped with essential items from the homebank“Before CHAT, I never had enough food in the house but pantry has helped with making sure there is always something in the cupboard” MOVING ONThe number of people seeking our help has risen significantly over the past five years. As demand continues to grow, it highlights the importance of helping clients build lasting financial resilience so they can move beyond crisis and achieve greater financial stability. For many clients, this requires ongoing support, with us walking alongside them as they take steps towards a more secure future. Our Affordable Food Pantry is a crucial part of this approach. During the year, 333 households used the pantry, providing them with a sustainable, low-cost way to access food of their choice while helping to reduce financial pressure. Grant funding enabled us to purchase some food this year, but it is the generosity of individuals and businesses, together with collaboration between community groups to make the best use of surplus food, that makes this support possible. We hold a small stock of donated items to help those who are moving into a new tenancy, or need essentials while they are sleeping rough. We also held 3 House to Home events this year where are clients are able to select extra items to help make their house into a home. HOMEBANK

Client feedback is important to us as at CHAT - it is how we learn what we’ve done well and areas for improvement. CLIENT FEEDBACK of members said: "Since using the pantry, I can afford healthier and more balanced meals." 73% of members said: "Since using the pantry, I skip meals less often." 77% of members said: Would recommend CHAT to a friend 94.4% of members said: We explained things clearly 94.4% of members said: Our support improved their situation 94.4% of members said: "Since using the pantry, I worry less about having enough food for my household." 89% of members said: "Since using the pantry, I feel more socially connected and supported." 70% of members said: Felt listened to and treated with respect 100%

When I first came to CHAT, I was 45 and my life was at its lowest point. I’d been dealing with serious health problems and I wasn’t well enough to work properly. I got behind with rent and things quickly spiralled and I was eventually evicted. I spent several weeks in hospital and when I was discharged I had nowhere to go so I ended up sleeping under a bridge. My physical and mental health got worse, I was drinking too much, and I felt completely hopeless. I went to CHAT looking for some practical help and advice. From the start, they made me feel welcome. No judgement at all. They just asked what I needed and tried to help. That meant a lot to me at a time when I felt really low. They helped me deal with the council, which I really struggled to manage on my own. When I was in temporary accommodation I built up over £3,000 in rent arrears because my Housing Benefit hadn’t come through, but CHAT didn’t give up on me and helped sort out a repayment plan so I didn’t end up homeless again. They heard about a room in a shared house and helped with basics like food and furniture. On top of that, they helped me with benefits, including Universal Credit and are still helping me with PIP and I use the pantry which really helps me with my money. Because of CHAT, I can deal with my debts and focus on my health. My head feels clearer now, I’ve stopped drinking, and I feel way more hopeful about the future – Thanks to CHAT. Charlie, aged 45 – CHAT client Jan 25 – current41.10% 41.1% 23.70% 23.7% 20.80% 20.8% 5.80% 5.8% 5.10% 5.1% 3.40% 3.4%Preventing homelessness is at the core of what we do and this is about more than helping those who happen to find themselves rough sleeping. By helping sustain a tenancy - by setting it up well and supporting the client to run the tenancy weel we make a real difference. We also help peple access social housing, and find more suitable accomodaiton.275 helped move to more suitable accomodation85 supported through eviction proceedings67 rough sleepers supported794 clients helped900 new cases opened “Without CHAT, I don’t know where I would have ended up… probably that’s why I still am alive.” Charlie HOUSING AND TENANCY Rough sleeping/Sofa Surfing/ Temporary Accommodation (23.8%) Social Housing (41.4%) Not known (5.8%) Private tenancy (20.8%) Shared accomodation (5.2%) Homeowner/mortgaged (3.4%) From Homeless to Housed

Les, in his 50s, came to CHAT after ill health forced him to stop working. When Les tried to access the benefits he was entitled to, he faced major barriers. Without access to a computer, navigating the system became overwhelming and neither Les nor his sister could understand why his claim wasn’t progressing. When we met Les his savings had run out, he couldn’t afford food, and he relied on family support. Our Advisor found that a GP had filled out a fit note incorrectly so worked with his GP surgery to correct this and then worked with the DWP to resolve his claim quickly. Les now has a regular income and received £1,700 in backdated payments. But the impact went far beyond finances. The frustration of navigating the “system” and the emotional toll of fighting for support had deeply affected both Les and his sister.“Having spent most of his adult life working, he has now spent an entire year without any income at all. It’s been quite a journey, and not one I would like to repeat. Thank you, we truly appreciate your help and listening ears.” Les’s SisterThe top three reasons people visit us for for help with debts are regarding Council tax, energy debts and water debts. When you’re in debt the worry can be overwhelming and so we walk this path with the client - helping them understand the options available to them. As Les’s story illustrates, the benefits system can be difficult to navigate and through our support, 87 households increased their income by a total of £303,069 annually through unclaimed benefits.£1,453,817 of debt written off All of our debt advice is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and we are the local Community Money Advice Centre.73 households - debt free and a fresh start410 debt and money cases60 people helped with specific Welfare Benefits issues4050 debt advice sessions£152,539 issued in Household Support Fund vouchersNavigating the System Together DEBT & MONEY

“They ask you what help you need… everybody is really nice in here and they don’t judge you. They just ask what problem you have and they try help you.” Housing advice client“Thank you for taking the time to do all of this for me, it really is a terrifying feeling but you are such a life saver and I am just so grateful to you, thank you!”"Took the pressure off as I was getting into a panic about the whole of life, not just the Council Tax.”"Talking to you at the first appointment was like a pressure relief valve. I don't know how I would have coped these last couple of months, you're a treasure! I can't speak too highly about you.”“You're making things seem more digestible and, even though this is still very stressful, I hope in time it will seem a little less daunting.”“I could not have sat through that without you being there with me."

THE TEAMJust over 3 years ago I was asked to lead an all age service at my church in Halberton and since we had supported CHAT for some time I thought it would be good to ask someone to come and tell us about their work. It was great and very informative as well as including some practical activities for us to join in with. From then on I had a feeling that maybe I would volunteer in some way at CHAT but I left it over the summer as life was quite busy. Then into the autumn I felt I was still being prompted to volunteer, so I made contact and met Helen. She was very enthusiastic and after an initial meeting we decided that the best place for me to help within CHAT was in the food bank. From the beginning I loved this role as it enabled me to meet with people who basically are less fortunate than me and most people that I know. Generally, I have found it easy to be with the clients, to listen and have conversations with them while talking about their basic food needs. It has been so good to see how the pantry has helped our clients as it gives them some choice and so obviously helps them to feel better about their situation. There has been a couple of occasions, especially in the early days, when I felt upset about a clients circumstances but Helen is always there, alongside others, to help me to understand. I have always felt a part of the team in my role and I find it easy to approach everyone if I have a query about anything that arises. I feel part of something really important for the people of Tiverton and the surrounding area. Pauline, Foodbank volunteer. Where our volunteering hours are spentReception 34% Food@CHAT 32% Advice 31% Governance 3% 32% Food@CHAT & Homebanks 34% Reception hosting & admin 3% Governance and other 31% Advice Work “CHAT is by far the best team that I have ever had the priviledge of being part of! It can be challenging but I feel supported by the rest of the team, and also feel valued in that we are able to benefit from some incredible external supervision which helps us process things both as individuals and as groups.” Claire, Community Support Advisor90 volunteers on the teamAcross the whole team 210 courses were completed – including budgeting training, GDPR, trauma informed approach, First aid, Safeguarding, housing law, leadership, renters reform, energy efficiency, possession proceedings and coaching techniques.£189,028 estimated value10,612 volunteer hours contributedPart of Something Special “Learning new skills, meeting and working with lovely colleagues, contributing to the work of a fantastic organisation.” Volunteer

By hosting partner organisations in our reception area each week, CHAT provides clients with easy access to a wider range of support services. South West Water and ECOE Advice help clients reduce utility costs through energy-saving advice and support with water bills, enhancing the financial and housing assistance already available through CHAT. This enables them to connect directly with people most in need of support, and reach our clients who may not otherwise engage with services. By working together we are able to provide coordinated, support that addresses wider financial pressures while helping to improve long-term stability and wellbeing.TivertonCullomptonCreditonUffculmeMid Devon is a rural area so in order to make sure we are accessible we continue to go to Uffculme, Crediton and Cullompton every week.Where we work1,600 clients referred or signposted to external support services34 different agencies referring into us “In most cases, we manage to reduce the ongoing cost of water bills by 25-50%. Saving the average household £200.00 - £300.00 per year.” Tom, SWW PROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

72 clients worked with153 face-to-face advice sessions£26,068 total increase in income annuallyOur partnership with ECOE Advice has enabled us to provide more comprehensive support to people experiencing fuel poverty, which is often closely linked to poor housing conditions and financial difficulties. Where an ECOE energy adviser identified that a client also needed help with debt, this partnership ensured they could access debt advice quickly and easily. Whilst the majority of clients supported through this partnership have been based in Mid Devon, it has also enabled us to help people beyond the district, ensuring more clients can access the debt advice they need alongside energy-related support.1.2 million of debt written off through Bankruptcy or Debt Relief Orders for 39 clients394 clients seen37.1% 19.3% 19% 14.7% 9.6% 0.3% East Devon 19% Exeter 14.7% Mid Devon 37.1% Teignbridge 9.6% Torbay 19.3% West Devon 0.3% Where our clients livePROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS Springboard is a collaborative project between CHAT and Crediton Foodbank, designed to support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Through tailored advice and practical support, the project helps clients become more financially resilient, access their full entitlement to benefits and services, and address the underlying issues contributing to financial hardship.SpringboardECOE Advice “It’s great to be able to use our building, which is a place clients feel safe in, to host other organisations. Andy’s Man Club & Devon Mental Health Alliance help our clients to get vital MH support.” Denise

Individual donations (22%) Corporate donations (3%) Givers of Hope (16%) Grants - Trusts (44%) Grants - Statutory (3%) Room Rental (3%) Service Level Agreements (5%) Pantry membership (all spent on food for the pantry) (4%)Helping people 68% Running organisation 16% Building Costs 8% Fundraising 8%For every £1 you donate: 16p Running Organisation OUR FINANCES AND FUNDRAISINGAll of our work is funded through grants and donations, so each year begins with the challenge of raising the necessary funds and the responsibility of using every penny carefully to deliver the best possible service for our clients. We ended the year with 4.8 months of operating reserves, giving us reassurance about our financial sustainability while also reflecting our commitment to using donations actively to deliver our work, rather than holding on to them. The importance of committed income cannot be underestimated so we’re also particularly grateful to Garfield Western Foundation, Lloyds Foundation, 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust and King Charles III Charitable Fund. A further £88,000 was raised by our Givers of Hope who contribute regularly with a monthly donation – we are grateful for this support. We work hard to make every pound count: For every £1 donated only 8p is reinvested in further fundraising, while an impressive 92p is dedicated to funding our frontline work.£1 68p Supporting Clients 8p Fundraising 8p Building Costs Total income £540,736 Total expenditure £545,194 Our Sponsored Sleepout 2025 Sources of Income

@CHATMidDevon CHURCHES HOUSING ACTION TEAM Coggan's Well House, Tiverton EX16 6LU www.chatmid.org T - 01884 255606/0800 0590104 E - theoffice@chatmid.co.uk Registered Charity No. 1049478 Thank you to all the CHAT clients, volunteers and staff whose photographs and stories appear in this publication. Please Note: Names have been changed to protect the identity of our clients. @CHAT 2026 BRINGING HOPE THROUGHOUT MID DEVON