Kiera Marshall the Plaid Cymru MS for Caerdydd and Penarth kindly sponsored the event allowing it to take place in the Senedd and Kiera also addressed the audience. It was also a privilege for us to play a short video message recorded for us by Sian Gwenllian MS, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government.
The event brought together powerful stories from people we have supported, reflections from ambassadors and partners, and a shared commitment to tackling homelessness, domestic abuse and inequality in Wales.
Our Chair of Trustees Pete Mackie opened the event by reflecting on our four decades of standing alongside young people, women and children as they encountered some of life's most difficult challenges. He thanked everyone who has played a part in our journey over the years and highlighted the enduring purpose that has guided Llamau since its foundation: never giving up on people when they need support most.
Chief Executive Sam Austin shared highlights of the positive impacts that have been achieved during the last financial year. These included the fact that 97% of people supported by Llamau said they felt safer, 96% reported an improved quality of life, and 95% said Llamau had made a positive impact on their lives.
While these figures demonstrate the scale of Llamau's work, the event focused on the stories behind the statistics.
Guests heard moving accounts from people whose lives have been transformed through support, safety and opportunity. Ann's powerful story highlighted the devastating reality of coercive control and domestic abuse, while Owyn's story demonstrated the importance of safe, supportive accommodation, and Ella's provided a moving reminder of what can be achieved when people are listened to, understood and supported to reach their full potential.
The event also highlighted the invaluable role of volunteers, including those supporting the Wales Youth Homelessness Helpline, which has seen demand increase significantly over the last year. Guests heard how early intervention and prevention can change lives, often stopping challenges from escalating into crises.
Throughout the event, speakers focussed on a central theme: where people are at the heart of everything we do.
In her closing remarks, Sam thanked everyone who had contributed to the event, paying particular tribute to the courageous individuals who shared their lived experiences.
Reflecting on the stories heard throughout the afternoon, she reminded guests that true impact is not measured by statistics alone.
"Behind every statistic, every target and every outcome is a person...A person who needed somewhere safe. Someone who needed another person to believe in them."
While celebrating the achievements of the past year and the progress made over four decades, Sam also highlighted the significant challenges facing communities across Wales. Demand for support continues to rise, with increasing pressure on homelessness and domestic abuse services. She spoke of the hundreds of calls received each month through Llamau's Rise domestic abuse service and the sharp increase in demand for the Wales Youth Homelessness Helpline.
Her message was clear: prevention works, but it requires investment.
Sam called on government, commissioners, funders and partners to continue investing in prevention services, warning that reducing support does not remove need, but risks pushing more people into crisis. She emphasised that investment in services is ultimately an investment in people, communities and futures.
As Llamau looks ahead to its next chapter, we remain committed to building a Wales where nobody is written off, where support is available before crisis takes hold, and where every person has the opportunity to thrive.
The Impact Event concluded with a performance from the Llamau Choir, whose uplifting songs provided a fitting end to an afternoon that celebrated not only 40 years of impact, but the hope, resilience and potential that continue to shape Llamau's future.
As Sam reminded those gathered:
"People's pasts do not have to determine their futures. Futures change because somebody chooses to care, to act and to invest."