Linden Church Trust Annual Accounts For the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity number. 1053050 bringing people together Linden Red Church Community Project ¢+4/ ou#°::x Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 315t March 2024 Charity Number:1053050 Contents Page Legal and Administrative Information..................................-.......................................... Reportof the Trustees............................................................... 4-18 Independent Examiners Report.................................................................................... 19 Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) 20 Balance Sheet........................................................................... 21 Notesto the Accounts..................................................................................... 22-29 Page 1 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number:1053050 Le al and Administrative Infomiation Charity Name: Linden Church Trust Charity Registration Number: 1053050 Address.. Linden Christian Centre Elmgrove Road West Cross Swansea SA3 5LD Linden Church Trust, is govemed by a Trust Deed, with which they obtsined charitable status on February 19th 1996. Princi al Officers.. The current Leadership Team structure, having spiritual leadership of the church, was set in place in February 1999. It is they who are those entitled to appoint Trustees. The Trustees, being legally fesponsible ft)r the control & management of the Trust. Leaders: Chris Matthews Tim Brown Ben Evans Helen Hunter Andy Hunter Chris Bidder Mandy Bayton Trustees.. Paul Flynn (Chair) Chris Matthews Tim Brown Kristina Wlliams Rachel Percival Tracy Ingham (Finan￿ Manager) (￿Signed 01.02.23) Kate Piper Simon Groves Eleanor Evans (appointed 07.11.23) Employed Staff Chris Matthews- Church leader- 8 hours - retired in Jan 2024 Helen Hunter- Red Community Project Co Director, Church leader Musical Memories Choir Lead - F Kristina Wlliams- Red Community Project Co Director and Foodbank Lead - 24 hours Rachel Matthews- Youth and Community Worker- 20 hours Tracy Ingham-Finance l Administration Managerlchildren's worker- 15-30 hours (left her role from end of Feb 2023). Rachelle Bright- Church Life coordinator- 7.5 hours a week Sarah Briggs Started Feb 2023 Parent and Toddler support worker. 3.5 hours Will Wilkinson - Project Support Worker- 15 hours a week Ron Bayton - Buildings Maintenance and Gardener- 6 hours retired March 31st 2024 Carol Pope Baker- Finance and Administration Assistant- 8 hours. Keifer Daniels - Cleaner 6 hours a week started November 2023 Andy Hunter- Church Life Goordinator 8 hours commenced November 2023 Siona Watson - FInan￿lAdmIn manager- started April 2023 Page 2 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number".1053050 202314 Sessional I Self Employed stsff Jim Chapman - Sessional Youth Worker- 2 hours a week Kate Mackenzie - varied hours Charlotte Toft- Forest School varied hours during holidays Andy Hunter- Musical Memories Choir technician - 4 hours Tom Denham- Community Fit instructor Sept 23-March 24 Ros Evans Musical Memories Choir- Choir Leader. Varied hours Independent Examiner.. Ashmole & Co. Chartered Certified Accountant The Old School The Quay Carmarthen SA313LN Bankers: Royal Bank of Scotland, 13-14 Walter Road, Swansea. SA15NG. CAF Bank, Kings Hill. West Malling, Kent. ME19 4TA. Swansea Building Society Virgin Money plc., Jubilee House, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 4PL Page 3 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number:1053050 Re ort of the Trustees Annual Report Introduction l am very pleased to introduce the Annual Report covering the period from 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024. The Trustees made the decision this year to amend our financial year from Jan-Dec to April - March so this is a transitional 15-month reporting period. Our next annual report will cover the period April 2024 to March 2025. Paul Flynn Chair of Trustees Ob'ect of the Chari Our Trust Deed created in 1996 states that the aim of the charity to advance the Christian faith in Swansea, the UK & any other parts of the world that the Trustees may from time to time think fit. Also, to relieve persons who are in need, hardship, sick, aged or in distress & to fulfil other such charitable purposes that may benefit the community in Swansea, the UK & any other parts of the worfd that the Trustees may from time to time think fit. This is achieved through the farth based activities of Linden Church and a diverse range of projects under the umbrella of Red Community Project run by and for people of all faiths and none. Our faith focus aims to facilitate an inclusive, healthy and supportive church community in West Cross. Our community focus aims to support people of all ages facing some of life's most difficult challenges and transitions by bringing people together and building stronger communities. I have been delighted to observe benefit to the community through out the last year in supporting play in early childhood with local, free and accessible play opportunities, building confidence in parenting, supporting resilience and wellbeing of young people, offering accessible crisis intervention for those facing financial hardship and food povety, proactive support to prevent ongoing food insecurity, creating inclusive local spaces and activities for people facing social isolation or mental health challenges and people living with dementia and carers. IA Building trust and 'social capital, in our community Raising community confidence and self4etemiination in situations where people often feel 'done to or ignored. Improving approaches to local services, breaking down a 'them and us, culture, with an emphasis on local insight, human relationships, service integration and open access. Early intervention to tsckle social problems and to build on local Strengths. Supporting people to stay well and helping to prevent the need for higher level health and social care services Values The way we do things is as important as what we do. The document below outlines some the values that underpin the work of the Trust Page 4 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Valueg Document Red bringing people together Freedon . ver Freedom for everyone to fullil vkno ihty trt. Supponing people to branch out and develop In ihwr skills and abilities. Freedom to connec¢ acioss boundaries. Conneciion raiher IhaTh tonirol. A place of m￿yal support arbd learning. nden Churc Trust Everyone￿$ a part to play in shaping who we ale. Everyone has value. Team leadersh￿ and orass ¥¢)Ots inclusi4￿. A place of hospiialiiy. respeci and radical kindrte$$. Swding up I￿juSt￿e lor people ond planet. This docurneni desul￿$ the values ihat uNJerpin the WO￿ of Ljnden Church TnFsi. Our is ihai ihe$e values shape bgth our eas and pecyle's exptr**eol us lor Ihe better. et Involved Fffin Generoug ace RecognisiNJ we we ol bwer Plciure acr05$ SwanMa, W•lt$ and Ihe world. st¥￿Ing up fortu$ti¢e I peoplear￿ planei. Wè are Sironger togeiher. An Inviiaiion io bè pan of Iht Ille ol oui a￿1¥11*e$ and proieas and shapir4 néw Ideas iogtlher. Crffie as y¢V aFe. Cwieaiing 4 place ol thduyon and equality. A place ol sanctuary and shel￿. A plxe ol dwwse Ille and paljeni 9ro*rth. Trnnsl¢)ming Ihe broken plaw of ow cornmunii*S and INes. ststement of Trustee Res onsibilities The trustees are responsible for preparing the annual report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of charity's financial activities during the year and of its financial position at the end of the year. In preparing financial statements giving a true and fair view, the trustees are required to.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently., make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable accounting standards & statements of recommended practice have been followed subject to any departures, disclosed and explained in the financial statements.. prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. anisation Linden Church Trust is governed by our trustee team of 8 people. The leadership team of 6 people have spiritual oversight of the church and wider trust activities with day-to4ay operations delegated to staff who undertake roles including running activities and projects, development, management, volunteer coordination, financial control, administration and facilities oversight. Mana ement and Personnel Be￿een Jan 2023 and March 31SI 2024, Linden Trustees have continued to meet bi-monthly to review the work of the charity, its policieslprocedures and oversee the day to day running of the Trust. The church leadership team meet separately to this, usually weekly to pray, discuss and plan ft)r the life of the church. Along with suggestions from the church community the leaders decide to whom donations and tithe gifts are given. They also have a wider group of people who are occasionally drawn in to offer specialist input and support. Page 5 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Chris Matthews continued in his Trust wide role working one day a week until Dec 31st 2023 when he retired. Helen Hunter shared the Trust Directof s role with him for 2023 but worked fvlly in this role from Jan1st 2024. Kristina Williams, Rachelle Bright and Andy Hunter were all employed by the Trust and shared a range of leadership responsibilities which included management of Foodbank , Red Community Project. and a variety of organisational and pastoral church life activities. Tracy Ingham left her role as Financial Manager early in 2023: in April 2023 Siona Masters (Watson) began working for the Trust in this role. Carol Pope Baker worked in administration support. A wide range of community work was undertaken throughout the period lead and supported by Rachel Matthews, Will Wilkinson delivered a range of our community activities along with a number of sessional workers. Polic on Reserves & Financial Control The Trustees have assessed financial risks and have set aside £50,000 as a working reseNe. This equates to 3 months running costs. We will keep our reserves policy, and the level of reserves held under review and monitor the level of reserves held throughout the year to establish the reason for any significant difference with the target level set. If reserves during the year are below target or exceed target, we will consider whether this is due to a short-temi situation or a longer-term issue and take any appropriate action. Se aration of Duties No one person may both authorise and pay any payment or transfer. For example, an on-line banking payment or credit card transaction. Conflict of Interest No individual may make payments or enter into contracts with family members or organisations in which they have an interest, either directly or through a close family member. B d etin Trustees scrutinise and approve an annual budget. The year started with the initial budget showing a deficit with some expected grant income not yet confirmed. However, with faith and hard work we were able to obtain the funding needed and are extremely grateful for all we have received. In addition to generous donab'ons from individuals, we were supported by several funders including the following bodies: Regional Integration Fund I West Glamorgan Partnership (formerly ICF). Mumbles Community Council City & County of Swansea, CYP and 50+ Coast, Swansea Spa￿S, Holiday food, Direct Food, Period Povety funding schemes. Co-op Community Fund Regional Health & Social Care & Wellbeing Grant Lancaster Foundation These grants are listed more fully in the attached accounts. We are grateful for the confidence shown in us by these generous funders, and by all those who are part of the Linden community and continue to faithfully give to support both our faith-based and our community work. Activities of Linden Church As a faith community we aim to be both inwardly and ou￿ard[Y focused, creating inclusive spaces where we nurture, disciple and care for each other, where people can grow in faith, and play our part in building stronger communities in Swansea and beyond. This is expressed in a number of ways including weekly Sunday meetings for worship, prayer, learning and connection. During the week a number of smaller groups meet as well as a varied range of shorter temi acttvtties such as book clubs, study groups, prayer spaces, and opportunities to explore faith together. Faith Based Youth and Children's activities Regular activities during our Sunday gatherings for children and young people have been a feature of the life of the Trust. Kate Ma¢Kenzie co-ordinated this for younger children with the aim of providing a creative and fun Page 6 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 151 January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 space to build friendships and explore faith in an age appropriate way. This was aided by a team of volunteers. A number of additional activities also happened throughout the period including trips, BBQS, beach and forest based fun. Risk Mana ement The charity trustees has given consideration to the major risks to which the charity is exposed and satisfied themselves that systems or procedures are established in order to manage those risks by means of a cycle of identification, quantification, management and review. Safe uardin We have strengthened our safeguarding team with staff and volunteers undertaking required training at the appropriate level for their role. A subgroup has been in pla￿ throughout the year to consider and refer safeguarding issues as they have arisen. We have worked in partnership with Statutory Services as needed. Sustainabili The projects and activities under the umbrella of the Trust aim to be designed with sustainability in mind, We hope to use eco-friendly practices to reduce our environmental impact. Planning includes the possibility of green energy sources and improved energy efficiency. Projects with a particular sustainability focus have included a community growing group , holding 2 repair cafes, running holiday forest school and outdoor play, planting a small community orchard on out grounds and our period poverty project distributing washable period underwear via foodbank, warm spaces and youth club. Buildin Linden Church Trust owns two buildings in West Cross and Mumbles. 644-646 Mumbles Road Mumbles SA3 4EA Two flats are a part of 646 and 644 Mumbles Road one of which is home to a family, one ofthe tenants is a music producer and rents an additional small room as his studio. The other flat is home to The Presence Project, funded by the Lancaster Foundation and run by Andy Hunter. One of the main outputs of The Presence Project is a free app offering a monthly reflection. A highlight of 2023 for Presence was the release of a project'The Prayerf inspired by The Lords Prayer. The first single was released in May with the album released in July. A huge amount of work, prayer and creativity from a whole host of people went into this project and has resulted in some beautiful films, music & spoken word. During 2023 monthly subscriptions to the app increased to over 15.5 thousand users. Presence also had devotional plans in the Youversion app with 40 thousand subscriptions. During the period ofthis report the leaders, trustees, staff, volunteers and the wider church community considered the future of the Red Community Project building in Mumbles. A number of evenings ft)r people to discuss and pray were held and culminated in a series of workshops where options and issues arising were carefully looked at. On the 21st March 2024 it was agreed by the trustees that the building be put up for sale. Expressions of interest were sought from those who would continue the buildings use as a community asset. Page 7 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31sI March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Red bringing people together Baty and Toddler group 9.3￿71.30aM tern time on Free FOodb￿L foodshare and space lI3￿130pM Free Youth Club 5.30- 7pm ime onty IMIDAY Free Communtty Frt 10- 1 l am Free Community Gardening Group 12-130 Forget Me Not Club 1-3pm Saru Jujitsu 4-Spm Karate 5.304JOpm Gwalia Singers 74.30pm TIIESDAI Free Communsty Brunth 9.30arTr12pn AA Meeting 1-2pm Yoga Steps Class 6-7.30pm Early Moming Prayer7-7.30am Yoga 11111am Free Community Lunth. 1st Thursday of the Month 12311130pm Freeyoga For Heatth Class 1131>2prn Saru Jujf(su 4.3Lk8.30pm Fm musi￿] Memories Choirfor people Imng w¢th dementia and care 11-1130 and 1-130pm Karate S.3M.30pm SUXDAY ChJrch Medng 10.30Jm- 12pm Everyone Is weleome Throughout the year the building in Mumbles has been used for a wide variety of activities including 3 Talks Chop and Chat PRU cooking classes Womens Aid young people's activities Parenting workshops Gower Land Twst meetings Catering Hire Creative workshops Private hire Revision Cafe for young people sitting GCSE'S Repair Cafe Linden Church and Wellb in Hub Elm Grove Road West Cross SA3 5LD Our building in West Cross is home ft)r Sunday church meetings and a hub for the wider community throughout the week. Activities and projects organised by the Trust held in the building Sunday Church meetings Mid week prayer spaces Baby and Toddler group Foodbank and warm space Youth Club Community Fit Yoga for Health Community Gardening Group Warm Wednesday Breakfast Club Community Lunch Musical Memories Choir Holiday Play and Forest School Page 8 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 la Current Projects and Activiteg Ilokd8y Pla Current Projects and Activiteg Hohoau Pla gw ano Pr Linden Red iupport an ard. Growlm .*nmwrty F ,*ga fLY Heafy outh Club Memorieg da eakf Eooobank Communit External hirers Saru Jujitsu, Karate, Yoga, Forget Me Not Dementia Club, AA and CA recovery groups, Gwalia singers, Welsh Class, Progress Surf School, Private parties and events. This year we have improved the space by adding new signage at the bottom of the drive and blinds for the main hall. ,*1 Pro'ect Re orts Linden Church Trust and Red Community Project have delivered a whole host of outwardly facing community development projects based out of our buildings in Mumbles and West Cross with some also delivered across the wider city. Funded by Regional Integration Fund, Musical Memories Choir is choir with a purpose aimed at bringing the power of music and singing to people living with dementia and carers. The choir met three times a week in both West Cross and Manselton with over 120 regular participants. The year was punctuated with opportunities for the choir to perform in public at The People's Forum, St Davids Day celebrations, Tea Dances in National Waterfront Museum Swansea Quadrant ft)r World Alzheimers day, Swansea Arena at a Health and Social Care Research Wales Conference, and the Llais conference in Port Talbot. ••• musical memories choir In addition to meeting in person we recorded weekly virtual choir Page 9 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number:1053050 sessions to enable peoplewho are in residential Ca￿ or unable to leave home to be partof the choir. We produced CD'S and DVD'S for people to use to bring music and singing into daily life at home and offer micro respite to carers. Pentrehafod School Pupils recently took part in a Dragon's Den style event with First Give where they presented the work of Musical Memories Choir and won us £10001 We were able to purchase new projectors thanks to slippage funding from the West Glamorgan Partnership. We established a Dementia Resources Library in West Cross and Manselton thanks to funding from Regional Health & Social Care & Wellbeing Grant. Im Q1: Did you feel socially isolated before coming to Musical Memories Choi not isolated very ivA•t•d m•whai i8dAThd Q2: How did you feel after coming to Musical Memories Choi somewhat i%Aated &ffl% (2) not isolated 933YA (28) Page 10 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31Si March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Communi Meals Funded by Regional Integration Fund Monthly community meals continued throughout the year with an average of 40 people attending each week. Providing an accessible and welcoming opportunity to share a course lunch with others in the local community is the basic aim but, of course, there are multiple benefits, particularly for those who isolated and at struggling with loneliness. Once again RIF funding has enabled this to happen. And the group of volunteers who help staff organise and run the sessions. Q6: How do you ohgrv• Mu•lGal M•morl•• C*￿Ir b•n•fft* th• ￿rn￿n Ilvlng wlth d•m•ntla that you brfng? ?00.oo% .00% 43.33% Impiov*4 laniua¥¢ IrnP¢Ov mental h•41rh a place io m••t fri¢nd• Improves m•moiy no b￿¢fir Communi Fit mood io belong Mid 2023 saw the launch of a Community Fitness Class. Led by staff member Rachel Matthews (a qualified fitness instructor) and volunteer Tom Denham (ex Armed Forces) the class was aimed at people new to exercise. Following a six week pilot it was felt that this was a worthwhile addition to the menu of activities at the Linden Wellbeing Hub. A group of regular attenders, positive feedback and an obvious benefit for mentsl health, mobility, fitness and strength were enough to ensure that the group continued through the period covered by this report. It is the hope that such an inclusive and accessible weekly class might attract the support of funding in the future. Iiiiil 73.3YA 76.ff 83.3 Impiovel méhril hèalth Souiee of Inforrnati on on... A plxe Ican A plAc¢ provts my mood e¢nrft oth support orhtrg ¢ompany LINDIN COM11UNITY GAfiDIN ardenin Club This has been a wonderful new addition for the spring and summer. We range from 3 7 helpers and have grown potatoes, tomatoes, beans, salad, herbs, cucumbers, pumpkins, onions, leeks, courgettes which have gone into soups, salad, breakfast for the community. We are exploring options for how we might be able to continue. A lot of people from recovery come, being in nature has been a real positive. ACT Page 11 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number.1053050 Monda Warm S ace and Warm Wednesda Breakfast Club Funded by Regional Integration Fund and Swansea Pla￿S Llnden Red Made possible by both RIF and Swansea Spaces fvnding Warm our Warm spaces developed significantly during 202314. This comment from Rachel Matthews, the staff member leading this initiative summed up the first session., 'This was the first week and it was fantastic. We served 19 breakfasts, enjoyed a 'heroes and villains quiz, and were visited by representatives from the local council., The following 15 months was a period of growth - not simply in numbers but in the sense of the weekly event being a place where those attending could also access othersetvices and support.. tenancy support. local PSCOS, Credit Union info, local councillors, surgeries, Local Area Co-ordinators, surplus food donated by a local M&S store, winter-time pre-loved warm clothes rail, fresh vegetables donated by Cai Tan. COMMUNITY FIT TUESDAYS 10-11 AM Accessible and adaptable exercise class HIIT and circuits sultable for EVERY body Numbers have increased with 50 being the highest numbers served but most pleasing has been the quality of connection those attending have made with each other. And, of course, the amazing group of volunteers. Lindort Chureh ornd W•llb•ing Hub Having run SUC￿ssfUllY overa number of years, once Red Media had completed the National Lottery funded 'This is me, film project at the media beginning of 2023 it was decided to close the project. Dan Evans who was the key project worker ceased top be employed by the Trust. The Trustees agreed to allow Dan to use the name Red Media for his own enterprise which has grown to be a successful independent local business. We remain grateful to Dan forthe creative talents he brought to bear in many aspects of the life of the Trust. Red IJARM }￿EDNE 930AM- 12.00 Fftebwunch forlhe I￿al comrnunlty. A ¢h8nce for people to M￿tOgether lagter ILY Lunc LUNCH F*Ye.I Ive We*1 ¢fOS¥ SAJ SLO Page 12 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 151 January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 West Cross Youth Club Funded by Regional Integration Fund, Co-op and Mumbles Community Council Open access youth work for young people in Primary School Year 6 up to Secondary School Year 9 has run throughout the period. We are grateful to Mumbles Community Council, RIF and The Co-operative Local Community Fund. Fund for financial support. This has made regular weekly sessions on a Monday evening possible throughout each of the three school terms. Evenings involved a range of activities some dependent on weather conditions- but have usually included craft, sport, computer games and cooking. With more than 70 young people registered average attendance during the period was around 45. Year 10 pupils have also begun to play a part as young volunteers and this has definitely added to the project. Staff member Rachel Matthews has been the lead throughout the period but is aided by some sessional workers and volunteers. kSI CKOSS youiv (Iub MONDAYS15:30- 7PM We havea vAde range nfact)iDe5, garr￿3 an¢1 hops loryounÉpeopletOBerirfyoW irL Free.tOattend. parenislusr needl In January 2023 Linden's Foodbank moved from its previous location at Red Cafe, Mumbles to the building in West Cross, Linden Christian Centre which has proved to be beneficial both to donors, beneficiaries and volunteers. West Cross Foodbank has continued to work with and for those experiencing crisis in the community. Be￿een January 2023 and March 31st 2024 we received 11,614 kgs of food by donation which helped us be able to process 1238 vouchers and provide food for over 760 and adults and 478 children. The Foodbank has been led by Will Wilkinson and Rachel Mathews. Siona Watson has been a welcome addition to the team and has facilitated the hot foodlwarm space feature of Foodbank. West Cross Foodbank has continued to work with and for those experiencing crisis in the community. During 202314 the Foodbank has grown into a one stop shop with Foodbank, Tenancy Support, Benefits Support, Financial Inclusion, Digital Inclusion, PSCO and community support all under one roof. It is so pleasing to realise that post-covid the West Cross Foodbank has evolved into hub of community services. We are so grateful for the support of a group of 20 committed volunteers without whom this would not have been possible. IL foodbank Page 73 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31$1 March 2024 Charity Number.1053050 Re air Cafe Red pwple lO￿th Repair Cafe was launched in September 2023 with a follow-up in November when 6 volunteer repairers were able to repair a computer, a radio, blender, table lamp, tool, hair straighteners, earrings, a child's coat and a light-up penguinl It was felt that although the project fitted well with the ethos of the Trust that without specific funding the trustees decided that it was beyond our capacity to commit to this regularly. It was decided to temporarily shelve the project and revisit at a later date. ",*q•o REPAIR CAFE ' •,.)WALES November 25th 10:30am- 1:30pm Red Community Project 646 Mumbles Road, SA3 4EA (opposite Southend Park) 8r4ns along your broken or darna8ed itern and our volunteer repairers will tryto fix ir, for free. You ¢an enloya cup of tea or coffee, and chat toyourfellow neighbours whSleyou wait We run a number of projects supporting children, young people and parents. youth and childrens work Bab and Toddler Grou Sarah Briggs began working for Linden in February 2023 and works sessionally for the Trust to deliver the weekly Baby and ToddlerGroup. She did a wonderfuljob in taking on this role and the regular gathering of very appreciative little ones (average 20+) and their parentslchild minders are very appreciative! This activity is fijnded centrally by the Trust Page 14 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Holida Communi Pla Sessions Funded by Regional Integration Fund and CYP Coast Funding During 202314 thanks to Regional Integration Funding, during Easter 2023, and in partnership with Mumbles Community Council, family play mornings - indoor and outdoor (Forest School) - were held in West Cross. Jam packed and funl Funding from COAST (Welsh Government funding) enabled further partnership working with Mumbles Community Council to deliver family play sessions across the West Cross Estate. Outdoor play sessions were held in an effort to take as much of the play as possible outside. Over five sessions 343 children plus parents were involved. Some of these events were particularly appreciated following a devastating loss for one family in the community due to a house fire. Gathering as Gommunity was so helpful in a number of ways. Parents Worksho Funded by Regional Integration Fund Training sessions offering support to parents have continued to be a feature. This included Neurodiversity training which was extremely well attended so much so that a second session was repeated later in the year. This resulted in a parents support group being piloted. Other sessions have included supporting parents who have children exploring LGBTQI plus identity,. parents with children with delayed speech and language., parents with children struggling with sleep. Wellbein Lessons Funded by Regional Integration Fund Building on the work begun in 2022 lessons in local primary schools have continued throughout the period of this report. The lessons are built around the 5 pillars of wellbeing and focus on supporting the transition from primary to secondary school. They have ben very well received by governors, staff and pupils. Outcomes Im act and Feedback The significance of community wellbeing hubs was indicated by the Welsh government's 2018 civil society strategy, which committed to design a programme to look atthe barriers to and opportunities for more sustsinable community hubs and spaces where they are most needed. Page 15 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Linden Church and Community Wellbeing Hub offers access to a wide range of activities, services and opportunities from a single point in the community. The impact of our work from January 2023 to March 2024 has been evaluated though ongoing qualitative and quantitative evaluation. We have identified a variety of reported positive impact of our projects including= Reduction in social isolation, Parents have felt informed and encouraged Parents, carers, young people, people in recovery, people facing social isolation and mental health challenges have all expressed the benefit from getting out and meeting others who are facing similar challenges for peer support Knowing where to go for fvrther support via signposting on ongoing community support Improvement in mental health and emotional wellbeing Digital inclusion support to access needed services Raised confidence to aC￿sS other support. Improvement in social connections and support nehvork. Reduction in drug and alcohol use Improvement in physical health Positive and inclusive volunteering opportunities leading to raised skills, confidence and wellbeing Improvement of children's play opportunities Improvement of young people's opportunities to recetve support outside the home or school. Feedback Local PCSO 'This is making such a big difference to the West Cross community. People would die without places like this, they need somewhere warm, safe and welcoming. Some of these people only leave the house to come here so please keep doing what you are doing., Volunteer living with poor mental health and in recovery from addiction "I feel more a part of the community and it has helped me start regaining some structure in my life. The Linden has made me so welcome, and I thoroughly enjoy helping out here. Otherwise, I'd be sitting by myself and easily back on the drugs" Local Area Co-ordinator- trour one stop shop approach has connected people attending with a variety of seNices in an easy access and friendly environment. The breakfast provision and opportunities for food share has been tremendous help forpeople who are food insecure. The groups are very inclusive and provide great opportunities forpeople to help out and feel useful and included." Parents attending workshops .1 felt relief - my experience of life with my child was there on the Screen" I feel empowered and educated it is a journey of discovery with my child and I welcome these workshops" Person living with dementia "The first time I came a carer brought me in and sat me down, I thought I can t sing, I don t like this, I'll stay now but then I m never coming again. But everyone was so friendly, and the singing cheered me upl I've never looked back and been ever since. This is the only time I leave my house, the only people I see other than my carers. I get fed up at home. I look fO￿ard to Wednesday all week, I'd miss coming if it stopped. It's great value singing like that, It's good for my breathing." Unpaid family carer ofsomeone with dementia When I ve had a temble night with my husband, I feel like I m sleepwalking. Its hard to get to musical memories but once I m there, it s greatl I feel welcome, enjoy the singing and the company. We are all in the same dreadful mess, so things don t feel so bad." Page 16 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number:1053050 Parents attending play opportunities "What an amazing community resource, so much to do for all ages, the space is really well run and welcoming. Well done staff for working so hard to create a nurturing and play rich environment. The lunch was a wonderful bonus too. We will definitely be back." Thank you so much for a fantastic moming. So good to have this right in the community. It makes such a difference to our summer. Great to see all ages playing together, interacting and having fun. My son has thrived here. People facing social isolation "I find coming to Linden breakfasts have helped me feel less isolated and there and people to help me and talk to. I'd be lost without it." "l enjoy the social interaction, that is the most important to me as I live alone" Local resident "I'm so impressed with The Linden Community Hub, the local community volunteers and local councillors who are helping make West Cross feel like a community again purely through putting on activities like the family play in West Cross momings throughout the school holidays, I can't help but sing your praises to whoever will listen. West Cross has felt so broken for the past few years. Hopefully things like this will start bringing people back together again. Person attending a Sunday church meeting "I was so touched by the church service this morning and the honesty demonstrated. It opened a door for me to admit my own struggles so Thank you" The Future A Welsh Government Inquiry into loneliness and isolation summarised, The Wales we want is one which supports connections bet￿een people and tackles loneliness and unwanted isolation. It is a Wales where we build on people's strengths to ensure they have the skills, resources and capacity to access opportunities. Therefore our collective effort should focus on fostering capacity as individuals and people's connections to others - this is about building healthy, positive relationships between people., tackling isolation and supporting people to build the skills and capacity they need to access opportunities and to contribute to and shape the communitie5 they live in. The strate ic aims of the trust over 202314 include the followin To continue to facilitate and model an inclusive church community with a holistic approach to faith and christian spirituality in West Cross To continue to develop a 'no wrong door'approach through the delivery of an integrated health and social care hub in the heart of West Cross. Foster stronger social connections and provide essential resources to help individuals and families cope with life's challenges. To identify and respond to community strengths and felt need by enabling the participation and co production of new activities and see great ideas become a reality. To explore options for selling our Mumbles propety in order to unlock the financial and operational asset held within that building. The trustees will prioritise a sale where the building can continue to have an aspect of community and social benefit. Explore options for improving and expanding the existing facilrties in West Cross. The aim is to expand our West Cross building to create a more functional and accessible integrated health and social care centre. We hope to address the current limitations and provide facilities that can accommodate a wider range of services at the same time. Key focus points for the future include- improving accessibility and building a new extension To support and strengthen our stsff and volunteer team. Page 17 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2024 Charity Number'.1053050 Thanks Linden Church Trust is fortunate to have Trustees who are committed to providing good governance for the activities and projects under the umbrella of the Trust They contribute so much time and effort in their role as trustees and l am very grateftjl for the support they have given me and the staff team. I would like to thank the commttted staff team who go above and beyond in serving the local community and bringing great ideas to life. They have supported the wider community through this difficult cost of living crisis and supported Linden Church Trust and Red Community Project to achieve our stated aims and objectives. In the same respect, my appreciation goes to all the volunteers who fomi part of our workforce and who give their time and experience freely. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all our funders from individual donors, statutory bodies and various charities and trusts. We are living in challenging times, as an organisation we would not be able to respond to the needs of our local community in Swansea without your support.with your help we are continuing to offer more support than ever to people facing some of life's most difficult challenges and transitions. Signed: Date: 02112124 Paul Flynn (Chair) On behalf of the Board of Trustees Page 18 Linden Church Trust Accounts for the period ending 31st March 2024 Charity Number 1053050 Independent Examinerfs Report to the Trustees of Linden Church Trust I report on the accounts for the period ended 31st March 2024. which are set out on pages 20 to 29. Res onsibilities and basis of re ort As the charity's trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 {'the Act,). I have examined your charity's accounts as required under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act,! In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5){b} of the 2011 ACL My role is to stale whether any material matters have come to my attentlon giving me cause to believe.. that accounting records were not kept as required by section 130 of the Ac( or that the accounts do not accord with those records. or that the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair, view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. that there is further information needed for a proper understanding of the accounts. endenl examinerfs statemen Inde I have completed my examination and have no concerns in respect of the matters {1) to {4} listed above and, in connection with following the Directions of the Charity Commission I have found no matters that require drawing to your attention. Ashmole & Co. Chartered Certified Accountsnts The Old School The Quay Carmarthen Carmarthenshire SA313LN Date: Paoe 19 Linden Ghurch Trust Accounts for the period 1st January 2023 to 31$1 March 2024 Charity Number.1053050 Statsment of Financial Activities for period 1st January 2023 to 31 sl ￿arCh 2024 Lknrestricted Funds stricted Funds Note Totsl Funds lastyear ITrKOMINB RESOLAC Voluntary Income f*neral donations and tsx C*neral grants and other inco tknnalions f rom various act￿rt￿S Activities for generating funds Café sa￿8 Investment Income Bank Interest R£ceNed Incoming resources from Charitable Activities Tow ards special projects Tow ards running costs Rental of halvrooffs Rental towards costs of flats Grants towards provisDn of charitabk aclNrtEs TOTAL INCOM ING RESOURC 47.459 16.383 6.108 159,209 2C6.668 16.383 8,928 135,549 2,200 2, 125 2.820 9,315 9.750 2,239 316 316 281 6,868 12,396 19.264 33,930 1,740 22.728 11.700 55.033 55,033 132.648 265,249 132.648 448.989 101,654 314,145 183.740 Costs of generating voluntsry ineome Hosprtalty Administration Fundraising Trading Costs Cost of stock Cost of café resour¢es Investment Managernent Costs Bank charges Expendituro on Charitable Activities Hospitalty Support Co$ts Adnmnistration Staff Wages, Salarv&s and AssocHted Qjsts (3fts and Grants Froject Resources Rent, P21es, L￿ht & F￿al Mssion trips Governance Costs Adrrin for Iruslee rreetings & accounts work Support Costs Trustee E¥penses Insurance rlgage Interest Building redevebprrent costs Ctprecialion Subs¢riplions, Ltences & Fees aeaning and Building ￿OIntenanCe Securty, and Safety hdependenl exanNnatK)n TOTAL RESOURCES E