Annual Report 2025-2026
REGISTERED CHARITY NO.1052964
WWW.FOYPIB.ORG.UK
Contents
| Introduction | Page 1 |
|---|---|
| Aims and Objectives | Page 2 |
| The Board of Trustees | Page 3 |
| Staff of the Charity | Page 3 |
| Events Facilitated During 2025 - 2026 | Page 4 |
| Financial Assistance and Fundraising | Page 8 |
| Volunteers & Partnerships | Page 10 |
| Case Studies | Page 11 |
| A Word From The Chair | Page 13 |
| Acknowledgements | Page 15 |
| Accounts: April 2025– March 2026 | Page 16 |
| Contact us | Page 18 |
Introduction
Introduction
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw is a registered charity founded in 1996, and in 2026 we proudly celebrate 30 years of continuous service to young people across Bassetlaw. For three decades, the charity has remained steadfast in its commitment to empowering young people to thrive, grow in confidence, and play an active, positive role within their communities.
The Charity supports young people aged 8 to 25 to engage in purposeful activities, both individually and as part of groups. Our work encourages positive participation, helping young people to build self-esteem, develop resilience, and gain essential life and employability skills that will support them well into adulthood.
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to reaching the most vulnerable young people in Bassetlaw. Working in close partnership with local organisations and services, we respond flexibly to emerging needs and provide timely, appropriate support across the district.
The impact of our work is clear and measurable. Monitoring and evaluation consistently show improvements in wellbeing, increased skills, and reduced involvement in anti-social behaviour. When young people are engaged in positive opportunities, they feel valued, develop a stronger sense of belonging, and contribute to safer, more connected communities.
This past year has seen a particularly encouraging rise in youth volunteering. Young people are not only engaging with our services but are stepping forward to give back and help shape the future of their communities. This is a powerful reflection of the confidence, skills, and social responsibility they are developing through our work.
“Between April 2025 and March 2026, the charity supported 11 organisations and 44 individuals totalling 558 young people benefitting from funding”.
As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this momentum by strengthening our offer, expanding our reach, and continuing to innovate in response to the needs of young people. We remain committed to:
Raising our profile and visibility across Bassetlaw
- Strengthening existing partnerships and building new collaborations Listening to young people and turning their voices into action Responding swiftly to challenges and emerging needs
This report highlights the achievements, activities, and impact of the past 12 months, while also outlining our ambitions for the future. As I step down from my role managing the charity, I would like to thank you for your continued commitment, for being part of our journey, and for supporting young people in Bassetlaw over the past 30 years and beyond.
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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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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As a resource that is able to offer information and signposting. To work with other agencies in a consultancy role.
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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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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 (resigned September 2025)
Anuszka Parente, President (September 25)
Sarah Machin, Vice President Linda Jackson, Vice President
Sue Shaw , Chair
Cllr Callum Bailey, Trustee (resigned May 2025)
Fran Walker , Trustee (resigned March 2025)
Glyn Davies , Trustee Heather Widdup , Trustee
Lisa Brunt , Treasurer (resigned December 2025)
Sarah Farncombe , Trustee (resigned Sept 2025)
Cllr Tony Eaton , Trustee (resigned May 2025)
Lucy Easton, Trustee Chris Forbes-Jones, Treasurer (since January 2026)
Rhona Collins, 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. This year the charity has welcomed 5 new Trustees and a new President.
Deborah Ducey, Trustee Jennifer Tomlinson, Trustee Heather James, Trustee Rachel Hodges, Trustee Clayton Tindle, Trustee
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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Events Facilitated During 2025/2026
Welbeck 10K Fun Run/Walk
The Welbeck Charity Run/Walk continues to be a muchloved 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 surroundings 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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Supporting Young Carers at Christmas
Young carers from across Bassetlaw enjoyed a welldeserved break at a festive activity afternoon, giving them the opportunity to relax, have fun, and connect with others who share similar experiences. The session offered a welcoming and joyful environment, with creative activities such as Christmas decorations and crafts. Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw (FoYPiB), Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL), and Tu Vida, highlighting the power of collaboration in supporting young people.
We are particularly grateful to Pandrol Worksop for providing selection boxes for all, Retford Lions for their generous donation of Christmas presents for the young carers, and to Worksop Rotary Club and Retford Rotary Club, for providing funding that supported both this event and wider activities for young carers across the area.
Thanks to the commitment and generosity of all involved, young carers were able to enjoy a joyful and memorable afternoon enjoying entertainers Andy and Lewis, reminding them that they are seen, valued, and supported by their local community.
Kilton Forest Golf Competition
The Kilton Forest Golf Competition, held on Saturday 15 June 2025, was a resounding success, bringing together 15 teams of four players, including four young people. The event proved to be a standout highlight of the summer, offering an enjoyable and competitive day for golfers of all abilities.
Local businesses played a vital role in making the event possible. Holes across the course were generously sponsored by local companies, and a number of golf clubs donated 4- ball prizes. The standout prize a 4-ball at Lindrick Golf Club generated particular excitement among participants.
Thanks to the incredible support from the local community, the competition raised £2,000 to support the charity’s ongoing work with young people in Bassetlaw.
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Special thanks are extended to BPL staff for their invaluable support in ensuring the smooth running of the day, and to Samworth Brothers Worksop for donating sandwiches for the halfway house, a gesture greatly appreciated by all participants.
In addition, five dedicated volunteers gave their time to support registration and the halfway house, helping to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
“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 2025, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw hosted a highly successful Quiz Evening at Retford Oaks Academy, raising an impressive £1,700 in support of the charity’s work. The event brought together 28 teams who competed in a fun and friendly atmosphere, enjoying an evening full of laughter, energy, and camaraderie.
The evening was made especially memorable by Retford Oaks students, who volunteered to present the quiz questions. They did an outstanding job, demonstrating confidence and professionalism throughout. During the interval, two students performed, showcasing their fantastic singing talent. Both thoroughly enjoyed the experience and will be joining Focus on You in the future to present the show. They shared their reflections on the evening: “This has been a great experience and we have loved every minute!” and “We feel empowered. It’s great to support a local charity. Thank you for the experience.”
We were grateful to Welbeck Farm Shop for their generous donation of Stichelton cheese, which proved very popular with attendees and added a delicious touch to the evening.
A total of 12 volunteers generously gave their time to support the event, from registration through to running the quiz. The winning team, “Sam’s Team,” claimed the top prize for the second year running, adding an extra layer of excitement and friendly competition to a fantastic night.
“So lovely to see regular quizzers again!”
“Great evening for a great cause“
“Brilliant evening and very well organised”
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Worksop Half Marathon October 2025 & Langold Lake Centenary Event.
We had a great experience supporting the Worksop Half Marathon Bag Drop! 12 volunteers helped on the day, some runners gave a donation to drop their bags for safekeeping whilst they took part.
The event was a huge success and we hope to support again this year!
In June FoYPiB supported the Centenary Celebrations at Langold Lake. 100 families took part in a fun filled day walking a route learning about past events and history of the Lake.
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 wonderful night of celebrating diverse local talent. With 146 young people taking part, the stage was full of unique, creative and confident young people. The event featured a mixture of Primary and Secondary schools, a college, youth clubs, drama groups and solo acts.
We were thrilled to welcome an audience of 250 people who supported and cheered throughout the evening. Their response to the performances was amazing.
With the help of our wonderful volunteers (including 4 young people!), the event ran smoothly and we successfully raised over £1,400 to support our ongoing work with young people in Bassetlaw. “The room looked fabulous this year and the evening once again did not disappoint”.
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.
“I want to do it AGAIN” “SUPER”
“I am so proud of myself and everyone” “It was so FUN!” “I enjoyed hosting and performing”
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Financial Assistance & Fundraising
Financial Assistance
To continue delivering its work across Bassetlaw, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw requires approximately £50,000 per year to cover its 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.
We are pleased to have secured £2,170 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for the period Sept 2025 to Dec 2025. This funding has supported community events and helped grow our volunteer base.
We received 3,000 from the Safer Notts PCC fund to support young people at risk of or engaging in Anti social behaviour. Notts CC 5,000 Local Communities Fund.
In the last 12 months, we have been fortunate to receive support from:
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Nottinghamshire County Council 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
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(through prize donations for fundraising
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raffles and community funding)
Additionally, we successfully received £200 from Worksop Half Marathon bag drop, and £120 from a tombola at NNCA NCT sale. 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.
If you or someone you know could support our work, please get in touch with the Charity. 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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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.
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. Bimonthly we receive between 10-12 applications the highest monthly numbers to date.
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 gifts in kind, offering professional expertise, services, or items that 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.
This increase suggests that more young people and organisations are becoming aware of the support available.
The 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 access to funding.
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
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 that work with young people across Bassetlaw.
All Trustee Board meetings are now held in person, with an option for members to join electronically when necessary, ensuring inclusive participation and flexible governance.
Applications supported between April 2025- March 2026:
11 organisations & 44 Individuals.
69 volunteers have supported the charity this year 10 of which were young people
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Volunteers & Partnerships
Volunteers and Partnerships
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.
This work was recognised through the award of a Quality Mark, for the second year running, reflecting both good practice and effective partnership working with Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL) Tu Vida and Nottinghamshire Young Carer Association.
A key highlight of the year was the Young Carers’ Christmas and Easter Events held in December and March which provided a positive and inclusive celebration for young carers and their families.
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.
During the year, in addition to directly delivered activities, the charity strengthened its work with a broad range of partner organisations across health services, youth provision, and local community groups.
As part of its commitment to improving outcomes for young carers, staff completed Young Carer Awareness Training.
The Rotary Club of Worksop generously supported the event through funding for activities and resources, with club members also attending on the day to provide practical support. Further financial contributions were received from Retford Rotary Club and the Bassetlaw Freemasons throughout the year.
The Rotary Clubs of Worksop and Retford, together with the Bassetlaw Freemasons, continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting local causes. Their generosity, ongoing involvement, and dedication to making a meaningful difference are sincerely appreciated by the charity.
Local business Pandrol Uk LTD supported both events providing selection boxes and Easter eggs. Local supermarkets Asda, Morrison’s and Tesco support with raffle prizes they also alert us to any funding.
Together, we are making a real difference.
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Case Studies
Ryan
Ryan is a young person that has worked with the charity for the last 5 years. He has performed with a group of college students at the Focus on You event, taking an active part within the group.
As he grew in confidence, he decided he would like to do a solo performance. For this he signed using Makaton sign language, to the song 'This is Me' from the Greatest Showman.
The following year, 2025, Ryan decided to sing and sign at the event. He has grown in confidence over the years, which has shown in his performance.
Taking part in the events has led to him securing a volunteering role at The Majestic Theatre in Retford as technical support. He was also chosen to perform at the Chairman of the Council's Civic Service.
Everyone that knows Ryan is immensely proud of the progress he has made. Over the past few years, Ryan has enjoyed trips abroad to Camp America, where he has volunteered and supported other young people.
Before his latest trip, he applied to Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw for a small grant, which he used to purchase the visa.
He had a wonderful time at Appel Farm Arts Camp and really enjoyed visiting New York on his trip.
We wish Ryan all the very best for the future.
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Blyth Players
The performing arts are a vital part of community life, offering children a chance to develop confidence, teamwork, and creative skills.
Putting on a theatrical show requires a significant financial investment, and costumes for a large children's cast can quickly become a major expense.
The Blyth Players wanted to ensure their young performers had professional, high-quality costumes to enhance their experience and the audience's enjoyment.
They applied to FoYPiB for funding and secured a grant to buy a full set of costumes for the young people.
Blyth players were elated to receive the funding from Focus buying all the costumes for the young people in 'The Grinch' with no expense to them.
The show was a huge success with 5 sell out performances.
By removing a major financial obstacle, FoYPiB enabled the Blyth Players to achieve a resounding success that strengthens their society and inspires the next generation of performers.
Every child involved got to be part of a truly magical, stress-free, and successful production.
H ow did you feel when you were told you were successful in receiving funding?
“ We were elated. We were able to buy a full set of costumes for the young people with no expense to them.”
What was achieved as a result of the support?
“ We had 5 sell out shows!”
What impact has the grant had on you/the organisation?
“ It meant all the children could take part with no worry about cost.”
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A Word From The Chair
The annual report is an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved through the year, within the report you will read in detail about the number of young people the charity has supported, read comments from young people and see how the charity has impacted on their wellbeing, it is a wonderful document.
Demand for the service has increased significantly, due to the cost of living crisis, mental health pressures, as well as social media have all impacted on young people and we are proud that the charity’s mission matters now more than ever, and our team have adapted quickly to the challenge.
This year has reminded us why our work with young people is not just important, its essential.
Through strong leadership and governance we have strengthened our board with new trustees appointed, we have clear and transparent financial oversight and are committed to safeguarding and inclusions. I want to take this opportunity of thanking Noelle for her leadership and to Ali for her invaluable contribution to the running of the charity both with such confidence and flare.
I must also recognise and thank all board member for their remarkable commitment as trustees and to young people in our community. I want to acknowledge the fund raising achievements of the team through the vast range of interesting and diverse events, all of which take time to plan and deliver and could not be achieved without the support of the board members and our many wonderful volunteers, thank you.
The charity continues to be committed to working in partnership with services directly engaged with young people looked after, care leavers, young carers and early intervention, ensure the charity has a social impact and offers long term life chances to young people, offering them positive alternatives and a sense of belonging.
Welbeck Fun Run saw over 350 people taking part, Focus on You engaging with over 100 young people, the Golf competition saw 15 teams taking part and Quiz Night saw 28 teams joining the fun packed evening. All events raising much needed funds for the charity’s work.
This will be my final report as chair, after nine years in the role. Serving this charity has been a deeply rewarding privilege and experience, particularly seeing first hand the difference the charity makes for young people together with the extraordinary resilience and potential of those young people we support through grant giving, I am grateful to my fellow trustees, our exceptional staff team and our volunteers and supporters for their dedication and integrity. I step aside knowing the organisation is resilient, ambitious and ready for the next charter with a clear succession plan in place ensuring continuity and stability in the leadership.
Finally, I would like to thank our President Alison Swan-Parente, vice presidents, Sarah Machin and Linda Jackson. As we look ahead, the focus remains clear, ensuring every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
Very best wishes to you all,
Sue Shaw - Chair, Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw
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I I li
Acknowledgements
Those who have assisted FoYPiB throughout April 2025 - March 2026
Asda Worksop Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL) Bassetlaw CVS
Bassetlaw Freemasons
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 JN Derbyshire Charitable Trust Lindrick Golf Club Morrison’s Worksop Nottinghamshire County Council Pandrol Portland Charitable Trust President and Vice Presidents of the charity Rotary Club of Retford Rotary Club of Worksop Safer Communities Fund (PCC) Samworth Brothers Supporters of the FoYPiB Quiz Night Tesco
The Jones Charitable Trust Valley Young People’s Centre Welbeck Estates Whitaker Charitable Trust
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Accounts: April 2025 - March 2026 Ind•p•nd•nt •x•mlnef8 report to th• trt•# of Focus on Young P•opl• In Baat1•W I report on the accounts ol Focus on Young People In Bassetlaw for the year ended 31th March 2026 Ro8POCtlv• rn•pon8Ibllltl of trustsm •nd •xamlnor The charity's trustees ar8 responsibl• fof th• pr•par8tion ol th• accounts The ¢harity'$ trust8es consider that an audrt 15 not requifod lor this year under secbon 144121 of the Chanlies Act 2011 ar that an independent examina119n is ne8d8d It 18 my re8pon8ibillty lo. •xamin the ¥ccoun15 under sects'on 145 ol the 2011 Act to follow the prctedures Lald down in the general DIwiKin$ given by the mMISsIOn under 8•clion 1451Sllbl of the 2011 Acl to slate wh8ther particular matt•r8 hav• com• to my att•ntion 811# ol Ind•pend•nt •xamIn•$ r•port My examiTratn was cafri8d out In accordanc8 wiltt th8 98n8ral Diro¢ii¢n$ gwen by th Charity Commission. An ¢x•minalion includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and ¢ompan$on ol the accounts presenled with those fecords. It also includes consideratn ol any unu$ual il¢m$ Or di$closure8 in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concarning any sueh mattr8. Th• woc•dufe$ undertoktsn do not provide 811 Ihe evidence that would be required ir¢ an autJit and con8•quèntty no opinion 18 giv•n 88 to wh•lh•r th• o¢¢ount$ pr•o•nl 'true and lair vi8w' and tho roport 1$ limited lo those matters 6et out in lh• next stal•m•nl. Ind•p•nd•nt •¥•mln•r'• •t•t•m•nt In conneciKJn with my examinatlon. No matt•r has com8 to my att•nlK)n." 111 which glv•• m• r••8onabl• ¢ause to t4ll•v• that in •ny m•t•rial r•8pe¢l th• r•quiwments.' to keep accounting CordS in accordanc8 Wlth section 130 01 th8 2011 Act and lo prepare accounts whi¢h a¢¢ord with the ac¢ounling r¢¢¢itJs and ¢ompty with the a¢¢ounting requiremnts ol the 2011 Act have not been met or 121 lo Whh. in my opini of the accounts t be ttentlon should bo drawn in ord•r to •n•bkg • prop•r und•r$landlng achod John D• tkin8tsn ACCA New Quom Hous8 41 Potter Slr•8t VVork$op Nottingham6hir• S80 1JH 20 May 2026 16
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Contact us:
Focus on Young People in Bassetlaw (FoYPiB) Kilton Forest Golf Club, Blyth Road, Worksop, S81 0TL
Tel: Mob: 07942 146 187 Email: support@foypib.org.uk Website: www.foypib.org.uk Facebook page: www.facebook.com/foypib