Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield’s chosen charities for 2026/27

Throughout the year, the Mayor will host a number of fundraising events to raise awareness and money for his charities, which are Recover, ADD-vance and Herts Welcomes Refugees. Each charity provides invaluable support to people and families in Welwyn Hatfield and across Hertfordshire.

Recover is a furniture upcycling charity based in Welwyn Garden City that helps people rebuild their confidence, develop new skills and experience the structure of a supportive workplace. They support people who may be recovering from mental health difficulties, homelessness or addiction, or rebuilding their lives after experiencing crime or domestic abuse. Through restoring furniture donated by the public, Recover provides opportunities to take part in meaningful and creative work.

ADD-vance is a Hatfield-based charity supporting neurodivergent children and their families, as well as the professionals who work with them. The charity provides advice, training and practical support to increase understanding of ADHD, autism and related conditions, reduce isolation and help families thrive.

Herts Welcomes Refugees provides practical support to refugees and people seeking asylum across Hertfordshire. Its volunteers help people adjust to life in the UK and connect with their local communities through services including befriending, English language practice and practical assistance.

Councillor Siewniak said:

“I am delighted to support three fantastic charities during my year as Mayor. Each organisation carries out invaluable work, helping people overcome challenges, build confidence and feel welcomed and supported within their communities. These causes are particularly close to my heart, and I look forward to learning more about their work, raising awareness and supporting them throughout the year.

“I hope residents, businesses and community groups across Welwyn Hatfield will join me in supporting these wonderful organisations.”

Recover’s Project Manager, Ian Block, said:

"Everyone at Recover is delighted to have been chosen as one of the Mayor's charities for the coming year. This support will help us raise awareness of the life-changing work we do, empowering people to rebuild their confidence, develop new skills and take positive steps towards a brighter future. We look forward to working with the Mayor and the local community over the coming year."  

Debbie Wood, Chief Executive Officer at ADD-Vance, said:

“We are truly grateful to the Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield for choosing ADD-vance as one of his Charities of the Year. This wonderful recognition and championing of our services will make a real, lasting difference to the families we walk alongside and help every day. We believe that all children should feel that their minds are amazing and the Mayor's support offers us the opportunity to highlight all our services for local neurodivergent families that give knowledge, strategies and support that enable children and young people to thrive.”

Katie Allen-East, Director at Herts Welcomes Refugees, said:

"We're absolutely delighted to have been chosen as one of the Mayor's charities for 2026-27. Our volunteers support dozens of refugees and asylum seekers in Welwyn Hatfield each week and we hope to increase the accessibility and depth of this support over the next year. As we go into our 10th anniversary year, having the Mayor's support to raise awareness of Herts Welcomes Refugees will be a great help."

For more information about the Mayor’s charities or if you would like to donate, please email mayors.office@welhat.gov.uk or call 01707 357060.