Annual Report 2024-2025
REGISTERED CHARITY NO.1052964
WWW.FOYPIB.ORG.UK
Contents
| Introduction | 1 |
|---|---|
| Aims and Objectives | 2 |
| The Board of Trustees | 3 |
| Staff of the Charity | 3 |
| Financial Assistance and Fundraising | 4-5 |
| Events Facilitated During April 2024 - March 2025 | 6-8 |
| Volunteers and Partnerships | 9 |
| Case Studies | 10 |
| A Word From The Chair | 11 |
| Acknowledgements | 12 |
| Accounts: April 2024– March 2025 | 13-14 |
| Contact us | 15 |
Introduction
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw is a registered charity established in 1996. In 2024, we mark 28 years of continuous service to the young people of Bassetlaw. Over nearly three decades, the charity has remained dedicated to enabling young people to thrive, grow, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
We work with young people aged 8 to 25, supporting them to take part in purposeful activities individually or as part of a group. Our work focuses on promoting positive engagement, which not only builds self-esteem and confidence but also helps young people to develop valuable life and employment skills.
Central to our mission is reaching the most vulnerable young people in Bassetlaw. By working closely with a strong network of partners, we respond to emerging needs and provide appropriate support across the district.
“Between April 2024 and March 2025, the charity supported 6 organisations and 37 individuals totalling 715 young people benefitting from funding”.
Our impact is evident. Monitoring and evaluation confirm that our programmes contribute to improved wellbeing, skill development, and reduced involvement in anti-social behaviour. When young people are engaged in positive activities, they are more likely to see themselves as valued members of the community fostering mutual respect and social responsibility.
Over the past year, we have seen an encouraging rise in youth volunteering. This is a positive sign that young people want to give back and take active roles in shaping their communities. As we look ahead, we aim to build on this momentum, strengthening our offer and widening our reach.
We remain committed to:
- Increasing our visibility across Bassetlaw Strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones Listening to young people and acting on their feedback Responding to challenges and emerging needs in real time
This report reflects the activities, achievements, and impact of the past 12 months. It also highlights our aspirations for the future.
Thank you for taking the time to read this report and for your continued support of our work with young people.
Noelle Barron Development Manager
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Aims and Objectives
Aims
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw aims to enable young people in Bassetlaw realise their aspirations and support their ambitions so that they can reach their full potential. To do this the Charity can provide funding and information to individuals and young people’s organisations, including some projects within schools.
The Funding Programme can assist young people aged 8 - 25 with projects, ideas and experiences that will help develop them personally, increasing skills that help prepare them for life and future employment.
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw works in many ways:
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As a facilitator of events to engage young people, particularly within the community.
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As a voluntary sector agency, working with partners to help deliver key messages, new initiatives and assist with the development of services to support young people in the area using consultation as a tool.
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As a Grant Giving Trust which assists young people and their organisations to engage in a variety of projects.
Objectives
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To help young people recognise and value their worth.
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As a resource that is able to offer information and signposting. To work with other agencies in a consultancy role.
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To help young people develop transferrable skills for everyday life and future employment.
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To give opportunities to young people that will help them achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
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To offer financial support through an application to the Grant Giving Trust.
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Shares information about the work it does (in line with GDPR). Attends steering groups and planning meetings and has a valued input to decision making within task groups.
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Supports local and district needs, helps a wide variety of agencies deliver key messages and initiatives to young people.
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Board of Trustees
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees, made up of 11 active members who bring a diverse range of experience from local businesses, statutory services, voluntary organisations, and youth representation. This breadth of knowledge and perspective ensures that the charity remains well informed and responsive to the needs of the community it serves.
The Trustees play an active role in guiding the strategic direction of the charity and provide ongoing support to the Development Manager and the Admin/Events Coordinator delivering the charity’s work.
A key function of the Board is overseeing the Grant Giving Trust, which provides funding to support young people either directly or through organisations working with them. Applications may be submitted by individuals or groups, and all are reviewed rigorously in line with clearly defined criteria. This process ensures transparency, fairness, and equal opportunity for all applicants.
Alison Swan-Parente MBE , President Sarah Machin , Vice President Linda Jackson , Vice President Sue Shaw , Chair Cllr Callum Bailey , Trustee (Appointed by BDC) Fran Walker , Trustee (resigned March 2025) Glyn Davies , Trustee Heather Widdup , Trustee Lisa Brunt , Trustee (Treasurer since Feb 2024) Sarah Farncombe , Trustee Cllr Tony Eaton , Trustee (Appointed by BDC) Heather James, Trustee Rachel Hodges, Trustee Clayton Tindle, Trustee
The Board meets six times per year to assess grant applications and make funding decisions. These meetings are structured to ensure that the charity’s resources are allocated effectively and in ways that have the greatest possible impact.
Staff of the Charity
Noelle Barron, Development Manager (22hrs) Employed by FoYPiB
Ali Gordon, Admin and Events Coordinator (8hrs ) Self Employed
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Financial Assistance & Fundraising
Financial Assistance
To continue delivering its work across Bassetlaw, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw requires approximately £39,000 per year to cover its core costs. This includes funding for a part-time Development Manager and a part-time Admin/Events Coordinator, who together work a total of 30 hours per week.
While we are grateful for the funding we receive, it does not fully cover our core operating expenses. As a result, securing additional financial support remains a key priority for the sustainability of our work.
Additionally, we successfully received £1,500 through the Tesco Blue Token scheme, helping us support more young people in our community.
However, funding remains a significant challenge. Core funding is essential not only for running the charity and organising events but also for raising further funds to support our Grant Giving Trust—which directly benefits young people across the district.
In the last 12 months, we have been fortunate to receive support from:
We are pleased to have secured £10,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for the period January 2024 to March 2025. This funding has supported community events and helped grow our volunteer base. We also receive an annual contribution of £5,450 from
Nottinghamshire County Council’s Local Community Fund, which is confirmed until 2025.
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Nottinghamshire County Council
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Local councillors
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Nottinghamshire and Bassetlaw Freemasons
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Worksop and Retford Rotary Clubs Four Charitable Trusts
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Individual donors
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Local supermarkets (through prize donations for fundraising raffles)
If you or someone you know could support our work, please get in touch with Noelle Barron. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of hundreds of young people each year.
A full list of this year’s supporters can be found in the acknowledgements section of this report
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Financial Assistance & Fundraising
Fundraising and Community Engagement
Fundraising is a vital part of our work at Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw. Each year, the charity organises a range of events to raise essential funds, build community engagement, and promote our work. These events not only generate income but also raise awareness and strengthen local connections.
We actively seek donations from individuals within the community and apply to Charitable Trusts to help cover the costs of events and programme delivery. Much of our success is thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, who contribute their time, . | skills, and enthusiasm. Many also provide tian gifts in kind, offering KX a professional expertise, services, or items that =e = NS~S help make our events and outreach possible.
All fundraising events are promoted widely through our partner networks, social media (including Facebook), and our website. These efforts are designed not only to raise funds but also to increase visibility and community capacity.
Grant Giving Trust
The Grant Giving Trust remains central to our mission of supporting young people. We provide financial assistance to both individuals and organisations who work young people across Bassetlaw.
Applications are received via our website, and each is carefully reviewed by our Board of Trustees, who meet six times a year.
In the past year, we have seen a notable increase in funding applications, reflecting growing needs within the community. In March 2025 alone, we received 12 individual applications the highest monthly number to date. This increase suggests that more young people and organisations are becoming aware of the support available.
Our Development Manager plays a key role in assisting applicants, providing tailored advice and support to individuals and organisations navigating the application process. This personal support helps ensure equitable " ea = : access to funding. Se
We also continue to visit local organisations and youth groups, helping to raise awareness of our work and explore how we can provide further support whether to individuals or to entire programmes. These visits have strengthened relationships and extended our reach within the community
All Trustee Board meetings are held in person, with an option for members to join electronically when necessary, ensuring inclusive participation and flexible governance.
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Events Facilitated During 2024/2025
Young Carer Christmas Activities
A group of young carers from across Bassetlaw enjoyed a well deserved break at a festive activity afternoon, where they had the opportunity to relax, have fun, and connect with others in similar situations. The session was filled with creative activities, including Christmas decoration making and T-shirt design, offering the young people a chance to express themselves and enjoy some light hearted fun.
The event was made possible through a strong local partnership between Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw (FoYPiB), Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL), Home Instead, and Tu Vida. We are especially grateful to Retford Lions, who generously donated Christmas presents for the young carers, and to Worksop Rotary Club and Retford Rotary Club, who provided funding to support the event and wider activities for young carers within the area.
Thanks to this collaboration, young carers were able to enjoy a joyful and memorable afternoon—reminding them that they are seen, valued, and supported by their community.
Welbeck 10K Fun Run/Walk
The Welbeck Charity Run/Walk continues to be a much loved event, drawing together the local community in a beautiful and uplifting setting. Held on the stunning grounds of the Welbeck Estate, the atmosphere was electric with excitement as people of all ages came together to participate
This year, the event raised an impressive £3,600, which included a generous £1,000 donation from Your Health Notts. The donation was made possible by their referral of clients to the event, demonstrating the power of partnerships in making a real difference. The success of the walk was also thanks to the many volunteers and supporters who gave their time:
Worksop Rotary Club played a vital role, managing water stations, marshalling car parking, and assisting with participant registration.
Volunteers and staff from Carlton and Valley Young People’s Centre ensured smooth operations by providing refreshments, safety briefings, and distributing water to participants.
A total of 25 people contributed to making this event a success, including six young people who supported in various roles throughout the day. This event not only raised vital funds but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration. We look forward to more opportunities to bring people together for such meaningful causes in the future.
“The event is so well organised”
“Beautiful for a run or walk” “Everyone is so friendly” “Fabulous grounds, we saw lots of wildlife” “I have done this for 10 years and still enjoy it!”
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Kilton Forest Golf Competition
The Kilton Forest Golf Competition, held on Saturday 15 June 2024, was a fantastic success, drawing together 15 teams of 4 players, including 4 young people. The event was a highlight of the summer, offering a fun and competitive day for golfers of all abilities.
Local businesses played a key role in supporting the event:
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Holes were sponsored across the course by various local companies, and golf clubs generously donated 4-ball prizes.
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The first prize of a 4-ball at Lindrick Golf Club was a particular highlight, drawing attention and excitement among participants.
Thanks to the incredible support from the community, the event raised £2,000 to support the charity’s ongoing work with young people in Bassetlaw.
“We like to support a local charity”
“The course is in great condition” “Excellent prizes to be won” “Great refreshments at halfway house”
Quiz Night
In November 2024, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw hosted a highly successful Quiz Evening at Retford Oaks Academy, which raised an impressive £1,600 to support the charity’s work. The event saw 30 teams competing in a fun and friendly atmosphere, with everyone enjoying the lively environment and camaraderie.
The evening was made even more special by the Worksop Post 16 students, who volunteered to present the quiz questions. They did an exceptional job, with the students showing great confidence and professionalism. This was the second time they had volunteered to present, and they were so engaging that we invited them to present again at our Focus on You event! One student shared, “This is something I never thought I had the confidence to do. It’s our second time presenting, and we feel empowered. It’s great to support a local charity. Thank you for the experience.”
We were also grateful for the donation of Stichelton cheese from the Welbeck Farm Shop, which was a hit with attendees and added a delicious touch to the evening. A total of 12 volunteers generously gave their time to ensure the smooth running of the event, from registration to the quiz itself. The winning team, “Sam’s Team”, walked away with the coveted prize, adding a bit of extra fun to the competition.
“So lovely to see regular quizzers again!” “Great evening for a great cause“ “Brilliant evening and very well organised”
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Giant Hogweed Event
The Music Night at Retford Town Hall was a vibrant and enjoyable event that brought the community together for an evening of fabulous music and dancing. Thanks to the generosity of the band, who played for free, and the Town Hall, which was provided at no cost through the Chairman’s allocation, the event was made possible without significant venue costs.
With 5 volunteers lending their support, the evening was a resounding success. The band played a fantastic selection of popular music, creating an uplifting atmosphere that encouraged attendees to hit the dance floor and enjoy the night to the fullest.
The event raised over £1,200 for the charity, and the positive feedback from attendees confirmed that everyone had a great time. This event not only raised vital funds but also fostered a sense of community spirit and enjoyment.
“So nice to get together and have a dance”
“Beautifully decorated room”
“The Giant Hogweed played great music to dance to”
“So nice to meet friends, to dance and have such fun”
Focus on You
Focus on You is one of the standout events we proudly host each year a vibrant, uplifting celebration of young people's skills, talents, and creativity from across Bassetlaw.
This year’s show was a true reflection of the diversity and spirit of our local youth. With 130 participants taking part, the stage came alive with energy and talent. The event featured: 3 college groups, 2 school groups, 3 youth clubs, 7 amazing soloists, an LGBTQ+ support group, 2 dynamic drama groups
We were thrilled to welcome an audience of over 300 people who brought incredible energy and support to the evening. Their response was phenomenal the atmosphere was electric, and the performers truly shone.
With the help of 20 volunteers (including 5 young people!), the event ran smoothly and successfully raised over £1,200 to support our ongoing work with young people in Bassetlaw.
Thank you to everyone who took part, volunteered, or came along to support. Focus on You continues to be a shining example of what young people can achieve when given the platform to express themselves.
“A night to remember” “No words just AAAHHH!”
“I feel happy and proud of myself” “I have enjoyed the experience” “I’d definitely do it again”
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Volunteers and Partnerships
Volunteers
This year has been one of growth, recognition, and incredible community support for our charity.
Staff and young volunteers were honoured to attend the Chairman's Civic Service, where some of the young people gave a special performance. This not only helped raise the charity’s profile but also led to generous donations from the service being gifted directly to support our work.
We were also thrilled to be chosen as Lindrick Golf Club’s Charity of the Year. Their commitment and fundraising efforts throughout the year culminated in an incredible donation of over £6,000, which will go a long way in supporting our ongoing projects and programmes.
In celebration of the amazing young people who support us, the charity proudly nominated four volunteers for a Bassetlaw Achievers Award. Each of them has dedicated the past three years to helping at events, and we are delighted that their commitment and enthusiasm were formally recognised.
At the heart of everything we do is partnership. Whether it's with local clubs, health services, youth organisations, or generous individuals, we know that collaboration is key. We are truly grateful to all those in the community who recognise the value and impact of our work and who continue to support us with their time, funding, and encouragement. Together, we are making a real difference.
Partnerships
This year, alongside the events we have directly facilitated, the charity has worked closely with a range of partner organisations across health services, youth groups, and local clubs. As part of our commitment to young carers, our staff undertook Young Carer Awareness Training, which led to the charity being awarded a Quality Mark in recognition of our work and partnerships with BPL and Tu Vida.
A highlight of the year was our Christmas Party in December, a joyful celebration for the young carers and their families. The Rotary Club of Worksop generously supported this event by helping to fund activities and resources and their members were there on the day, lending a hand and joining in the festivities. Funding was also donated by Retford Rotary Club and Bassetlaw Freemasons throughout the year.
We know that for the Rotary Clubs of Worksop and Retford and the Bassetlaw Freemasons support good causes and seeing the difference they make brings great satisfaction. Their dedication, generosity, and hands on involvement continue to be deeply appreciated by everyone at the charity. We are incredibly grateful to have them as part of our community.
Applications supported between April 2024- March 2025: The Mob, 2nd Priory Guides, Bassetlaw Futsal Club, Active communities CIC, Worksop Junior Darts Academy, Worksop Junior Hockey Club & 38 Individuals.
63 volunteers have supported the charity this year 10 of which were young people
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Case Studies
~ The MOB (Mini Operatic Bunch) ~
This group applied to the charity for a grant to support the fabulous work they do.
How did you find the application process?
“Very Straight forward”.
How did you feel when you were told you were successful in receiving funding?
“We were delighted as this enabled us to provide a new activity for our young members”.
How the grant was spent?
“We used the grant to fund 2 puppetry workshops for our 60 members. This included a range of different puppet modalities, experience in handling puppets, working in teams and independently and the relationship between a puppet, the audience and the puppeteer.
As a result of support the young people have gained an understanding of a new theatre art, experience working with puppets and exploring how you can express emotion and communicate without talking”.
“It has provided us with an ongoing skill and resource for future productions”
~ Andrew ~
A local teen Karter was awarded funding by Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw to support his passion in the very expensive sport. He is a Senior X30 Kart racer, who races at PFI track and compete in their championship. This is the home of British Karting and has seen all the F1 drivers pass through on their motorsport journey. He races one weekend a month and helps to mechanic for other drivers once a month to build his engineering experience.
With the funding awarded he bought a laser set, this helped him align his kart correctly and he's also using it to support others. When he's doing work experience he's teaching the younger racers how to use them. We asked him what was achieved as a result of the support given? This was his response:
"Experience using tools that support everyone in karting, it means I can add experience to my CV and when I look for work this will be an invaluable tool".
He went on to say he felt very supported by FoYPiB and was proud to be associated with a fantastic local organisation.
"It had made me feel appreciated, being in a sport that receives no funding or support to improve, it's a major boost to feel like people think you are worthy of supporting.
We are all so grateful, honestly, it's so costly to race, at least £450 a weekend, not counting repairs, damages, consumables so when we get support it's really appreciated!"
He was placed 4th place in the Trent Valley Kart Club Championship run at PF International track and also 1st place novice. There was 63 in the championship so he did amazingly well! For a prize he was awarded the trophy, canvas, a set of tyres and fully paid entry into the 2024 championship, total prize value of £1300!
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A Word From The Chair
We are acutely aware of the impact mental ill health continues to have on young people, along with feelings of isolation they may experience. The charity is committed to continue the support to those on the margins, those in care, care leavers and young carers through grant giving.
It gives me great pleasure to present the annual report for 2024-25.
I must first give my heartfelt thanks to Noelle and Ali who have continued to work very hard to raise a record amount of money through fundraising events and to operate the management of the charity with such flare and commitment. Thank you to the Board of Trustees for all the continued hard work at events and demonstrating sound judgement at board meetings.
The board has been in a position to give out many grants to children and young people and it has been a pleasure to work together and continue the aim of the charity. The wonderful diverse range of events offers the opportunities for many different groups of individuals to attend and to generously support the charity.
Huge thanks to everyone who has participated in any or all of the activities so that we can then provide children and young people with a step up to achieve their chosen goals and aspirations.
I want to thank the work of the team for applying and successfully receiving grants, as well as continuing to plan and deliver the much loved events such as the Welbeck Fun Run, with over 300 participants in May 2024, to the Golf Days and the Quiz Night; all of which are really well supported and raised a lot of money.
The live music event at Retford Town Hall was also a great success once again. Focus on You was spectacular, giving young people the opportunity to celebrate live dance, music and the arts, performing on stage at North Notts Arena. I am so proud and privileged to Chair such a fantastic charity.
To all our Trustees and over 62 Volunteers, some of which were young people who have given their time to support us, I would like to offer my sincere thanks. To all funders and venues that have supported us together with our President Alison Swan-Parente and Vice Presidents, many thanks for your continued support to Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw.
We look forward to raising funds, finding more opportunities for grant giving, and continuing to offer children and young people the opportunities they desire to grow and achieve in 2025-26.
Very Best wishes to you all,
The charity is committed to working in partnership and understanding the needs of young people.
Sue Shaw Chair, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw
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Acknowledgements
Those who have assisted FoYPiB throughout April 2024 - March 2025
Asda Worksop Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL) Bassetlaw CVS Bassetlaw Freemasons Bassetlaw Swim Squad Carlton Young People’s Centre darbys Chartered Certified Accountants Individual Bassetlaw District Councillors Individual Nottinghamshire County Councillors Individual supporters and volunteers Jessie Spencer Charitable Trust Lindrick Golf Club Morrison’s Worksop Nottinghamshire County Council Portland Charitable Trust President and Vice Presidents of the charity Retford Business Forum Rotary Club of Retford Rotary Club of Worksop Samworth Brothers Summit Signs Retford Supporters of the FoYPiB Quiz Night Tesco Worksop The Jones Charitable Trust Valley Young People’s Centre Welbeck Estates Whitaker Charitable Trust
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Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Focus on Young Peoplè In 8assetlaw I report on the accounts of Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw for the year ended 31¥t March 2025 Respectlve rnsponslbllltles of trust•ès and examlner The charity's trustees are responsible for Ihe preparation of the aGcounts. The charity's Iruslees consider that an audit is not required for this year under sectson 144{2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is nèeded. 11 Is my responsibility lo- examine the accounts under seclion 145 01 the 2011 Act lo follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the commi$$lon under section 14515llbl of the 2011 Act lo slate whether partieular matters have come lo my 811enlion Basls of Independent examlnèr's report My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examinalion includes a review ol Ihe accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with Ihose records. 11 also includes consideration ol any unusual items or disclosufes in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as Iruslees concerning any such mallers. The procedules undertaken do not provide all the evidence Ihal woul¢J be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as lo whether the accounts present a 'Irue and lair view, and Ihe report is limited lo those mallers sel out in the next slalemenl. Independent examlner's statement In connection wilh my extminalion. No maller has come lo my altenlion.. 111 which gives me reasonable cause lo believe that in any material respect the requirements-. lo keep accounting records in accordance wlth section 130 of the 2011 Act and lo prepare accounts which accord with the accounting rècords and comply with tho accounling requirements of the 2011 Acl have not b mel or (21 lo which. in ol the acc pinion, allenlion should be drawn In order lo enable a pioper understanding be reached. ts John O Ikinso CCA New Quorn House 41 Potter Street Worksop Nollinghamshl S80 1J June 2025
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The Charity is proud to be recognised as a Young Carer Friendly Organisation.
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Contact us:
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw (FoYPiB) Kilton Forest Golf Club, Blyth Road, Worksop, S81 0TL
Tel: 01909 531504 Mob: 07828974832 Email: support@foypib.org.uk Website: www.foypib.org.uk Facebook page: www.facebook.com/foypib
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