Following the recent statement from Northumbria Police about Operation Tide, Foundation of Light issues the following statement:
"We are currently helping Northumbria Police with their enquiries about a case of non-recent sexual abuse relating to a former employee.
"Foundation of Light is an organisation that is dedicated to improving people's lives and over the years we have supported many who have suffered abuse, as well as forging positive working relationships with Northumbria Police.
"We are extremely saddened to hear of the allegations and will do everything in our power to support this investigation.
"Our concern is primarily with those who have suffered abuse and we would encourage any others who have suffered abuse in the past to contact the NSPCC on 0800 023 2642.
"To prevent abuse all Foundation of Light staff undergo rigorous safeguarding training; Foundation of Light employs a safeguarding officer as is suitable for an organisation of its size and type and DBS checks are undertaken on all appropriate staff.
"We also adhere to strict safeguarding procedures to protect the thousands we work with every day and take allegations of abuse very seriously.
"As this is an ongoing police investigation it would not be appropriate for us to comment in more detail at this stage."
The ’We Are Role Models’ campaign shines a light on the Foundation’s ongoing work across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham, supporting boys and young men through sport, education and mentoring.
In our latest piece we catch up with Claire Bovill and Julie McCann about their volunteering experiences.
Azeem Iftikah came to the Foundation of Light to help settle in the UK after arriving as a refugee, but he is now an integral part of the Wear Together sessions at The Venue in Stanley.