The Foundation of Light officially launched its five-year strategy, “Brighter Tomorrow”, in early 2026 (formally announced on 6 February 2026). The programme, which runs from 2026 to 2031, is designed to help more families in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear into work and out of poverty by expanding health and youth services and increasing vocational and skills training for local residents.
The plan runs until 2031 and includes a target to reach 70% of residents in the city’s most deprived wards. The charity says it will expand employability support and deliver more training aimed at manufacturing and emerging green-technology roles, including work to grow the existing advanced manufacturing skills offer at the Beacon of Light.
The strategy was developed in response to high levels of financial hardship in the region. Recent figures cited by Children North East show around 39.7% of children in Sunderland are living in low-income households.
To support families, the Foundation will establish a dedicated Poverty Taskforce providing financial advocacy and food-security support. Regional recruitment listings (via the VONNE jobs service) also show the Foundation advertising new roles to help deliver its expanded community services.
Sir Bob Murray CBE, Chair of Trustees of the Foundation of Light, said the programme is intended to ensure a child’s future is not limited by where they live. The Beacon of Light will serve as the primary hub for residents to access the new safety-net services and job-training opportunities.
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