He was joined by Baroness Armstrong of Hilltop and Cyrenians Group Chief Executive Stephen Bell to formerly report on the 40 years of activity supporting those in need across the North East.
The AGM celebrated significant success for The Cyrenians in this, it's 40th year. Some of these successes include expansion of services into Northumberland and Teeside, a recently awarded capital bid for work in Durham from the Homes and Community Agency (the largest grant of its type ever awarded) and a renewed appetite to lobby on behalf of those it serves.
At the event, Tony Blair spoke about his experiences in the field of providing support to those in need and allowing charities operating in the third sector to be innovative in their approach to responding to that need.
He said, "This has been built into a remarkable organisation over the last few years. When you think of the thousands of people whose lives have been touched, i think that everyone who is connected with [the organisation] can be really, really proud.
I thank The Cyrenians for all the work they do."
Group Chief Executive, Stephen Bell thanked everyone who has been involved with The Cyrenians over the 40 years history to help them get to where they are today.
He said, "These are tough, challenging times however by working with partners and driving innovation we can continue to deliver life changing services to those in need."
The AGM which was held in the gardens of Elliott House following a mutl-million pound investment in the accomodation, ended with afternooin tea which was made by those living at Elliott House and volunteering within the catering team.
