Mayor of Brent Launches Charity Appeal for Brent Irish Advisory Service

The Mayor of Brent, Cllr Ryan Hack, has launched a charity appeal in support of his chosen charity for the year – the Brent Irish Advisory Service (BIAS).

Founded in 1978 and partly funded by the Government of Ireland’s Emigrant Support Programme (ESP), BIAS is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of Irish people. Its services include an Active Ageing Project to help older Irish residents stay healthy and connected, and a Volunteer Programme that offers opportunities to make a positive impact locally and tackle social isolation.

Each year, more than 5,000 people attend its twice-weekly Active Ageing Clubs in Cricklewood and Neasden. Earlier this year, BIAS expanded beyond northwest London by opening a Friday club at Hornsey Vale Community Centre in Hackney.

To showcase its work, BIAS has released a short film produced by broadcaster and filmmaker Peter Curran, highlighting the many ways the organisation supports local communities.

Cllr Hack said:
"My grandparents emigrated from Cork and Donegal to London in the 1970s, as so many Irish families did over the decades – and the number one borough they came to was Brent. Brent is still home to the largest Irish community in England. I am immensely proud to support BIAS. I’ve seen first-hand the vital work they do, including helping my own grandfather many years ago. Their services are in huge demand, growing every year, and I hope this appeal will help them expand even further across London."

"I urge everyone who can to support my Mayoral Charity Appeal this year, in aid of BIAS."

Leader of Brent Council, Cllr Muhammed Butt, added:
"BIAS doesn’t just deliver programmes – it ignites hope, sparks connections, and opens doors for thousands of Irish people across London. It stands alongside Brent’s Irish community members who spent decades building this city’s skyscrapers and roads, as well as caring for our loved ones in the NHS."

Eddie O’Kane, Chair of BIAS, said:
"We are deeply grateful for the Mayor’s ongoing support, which is truly inspiring. We operate on the frontline, alongside our partners and skilled staff, making a real difference to people’s lives. Demand for our services is growing, and we plan to expand further in 2026. Funds raised through this appeal will be crucial in supporting this growth and recruiting additional staff."

Make a donation to the Mayor’s Charity Appeal