We’re very pleased to introduce Katie Hamilton, the latest addition to our excellent InterAction team. A former volunteer with our fantastic Action Language project, Katie is set to become a familiar face at our twice-weekly InterAction drop-ins held in the Turbine Hall at Castle Gate, Newcastle each Tuesday and Thursday. Welcome to Action Foundation, Katie!

Tell us a bit about yourself

I grew up in Newcastle and am a very proud Geordie! I love walking and cycling, basically anything outdoors, particularly around the Northumberland countryside and coast, but also further afield.  I also love cooking (and talking about food!) I particularly like dishes from other cultures and countries and enjoy doing yoga to relax at the end of the day.

What’s your career background?

I’ve worked in the refugee/migrant field for the past few years in Newcastle, with a number of different charities. My interest in working with refugees and asylum seekers actually started after volunteering with Action Language one summer, and I decided pretty much from there that this was the sector I wanted to be in!  Most recently I was working on a young refugees’ project, supporting recently arrived young people to access opportunities. I’m really passionate about supporting and empowering refugees and asylum seekers in the North East.

What’s your new role?

I’ll be working as a Project Officer in the InterAction team, mostly focused on delivering case work at the drop-ins and in local hotel accommodation.

What drew you to apply for a job at Action Foundation?

It’s a chance to continue learning about the asylum system and to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers locally.