CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER.. 1096712 Mind Active Unaudited Financial Statements 31 March 2023
Mind Active Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2023 Page Trustees, annual report Independent examiner's report lo the trustees Statement of financial activities (including income and expendilure account) Statement of financial position Notes to the financial statements The following pages do not form part of the financial slatements Detailed statement of financial activities 14
Mind Active Trustees. Annual Report Year ended 31 March 2023 The Iruslees present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2023. Reference and admlnlstratlve details Registered charity name Mind Active Charity reglstration number 1096712 Princlpal offlce and registered 24 Front Street Wtrsl offl¢e Bedlington Northumberland NE22 SUB The trustees G Slaughter E Kelly J Wilbourne DrCGuy G Easton K Monaghan Chair Independent examiner JFS Torbitt Chartered Certified Accounlanls 58 Durham Road Birtley Co Durham DH3 2QJ We are a Registered Charity INO 10967121 and have operated succ&sfully since 14 August 2002, within the terms of our Trust Deed. Our Bankers are TS8 Bank Plc, 3-5 Newgate Street, Morpelh, Northumberland. We appoint Solicitors as necessary.
Mind Active Trustees, Annual Report (continuedl Year ended 31 March 2023 Stru¢lure. goveman¢e and management Trustees All Iruslees give their lime voluntarily and receive no benefit. Recruitment and Appolntment of Trustees The Trustees seek to ensure that the users needs are reflected through the diversity of the trustee body. To enhance the potential pool of Trustees. selected individuals who may wish to become Trustees are approached as necessary. Trustees are re-appointed annually. Trustees Inductlon and Training New Trustees are actively encouraged by the existing Trustees, having regard lo any specialist skills required. New Trustees are briefed on their legal obligelions under Charity Law, our Trust Deed, Ihe CDmmillee and the decision making process, ftjture plans and recent performance They are encouraged to attend appropriate training, and made aware of Charity Commission PLJblications. Feedback is encouraged. Risk Management We have assessed land reviewed regularly) the major risk5 to which we are exposed. in particular those related to our operations and linanGes, and are satisfied that systems are in place to miligale our exposure. No major risks have been Identified. A key element in our management ol financial risk is the setting and regular review of our Reserves policy. Reserves Policy Free Reserves are those funds not tied up in Fixed Assets or DesignaledlRestricled funds. We retain an appropriate amount ol reserves in line with Charity CoTnmission guidelines, and continue to review and forecast the level required to sustain operations should income generating activities be curtailed. Appropriate use includes covering funding cold spots lo maintain the level and quality of services we are respected for providing. Objectives and activities The charity Objective continues to be support the quality of life and social inclusion needs of older people that find themselves marginalised, isolated andlor lonely due lo where they live, challenging caring responsibilities andlor debilitating conditions. Our Policies are reviewed annually, and updated as necessary, or earlier as ¢ir¢um51ances, such as the COVID - 19 Pandemic necessilale. We refer lo Charity Commission guidance on Public Benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives and ensure that future plans remain focused on meeting beneficiary needs. Funding reslri¢lions can limit our activities. bul we endeavour to ensure Ihat benefi¢iarie5 appropriate to our aims are not excluded when space is available in the project. Equal access lo our service is important to LJS. and we promote local understanding ol our work. We are challenging the harmful isolation and negative mental health effec15 experienced by our client groups, by continuing lo deliver meaningful quality ol life provision with current practiced exceeding client attendance targets. Strateglc report The following s&clions for achievements and performance and financial review form the strategic report of the charity.
Mind Active Trustees, Annual Report (¢onllnu8d} Year ended 31 March 2023 A¢hlevements and performancè This year has been another challenging post-pandernic year, bul with our digital inclusion setvices introduced during the first year of Covid-19. we capilalised on this success towards maintaining and even developing beneficiary social inclusion even further within the charily Objectives successfully keeping Client groups active, connected and mentally well. We continued our digital services alongside our permitted group activities even beyond the Covid-19 restrictions as we Iransilioned back lo traditional lace-to-face delivery. Financlal revlew Our state of affairs remains salisfaclory, as detailed in the attached Financial Accounts. Our assets Continue lo be adequate and available lo meet our obligations. Plans for future periods The charity team having successfully moved away from essential Covid 19 digital support, will be delivering a wide range of fa¢e-to-face group activities in care and nursing homes, but also in wider community venues with people from their own homes living with isolating debilitating conditions their carers and subsequent bereaved carers. Some of the outdoor and community venue aclivities will involve a mix of both carelnursing home residents and people from their own homes. This model helps often marginalised local people lo feel connected, raising mood and improving social interaction and wellbeing. We will also visit residential care and nursing homes to deliver group aclivilies, taking the community to those unable lo leave the care support. This might also include one-to-one activities for those restricted to their rooms or beds. We have developed a three-year long-lerm plan to continue to deliver meaningful quality of life provision, and we will endeavour to secure additional grants to add to our existing funds. The Iruslees, annual report and the slralegic report were approved on on behalf of the board of Iruslees by.. and signed G Slaughter Chair G Easton Trustee 5 /thlL,
Mind Active Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Mind Active Year ended 31 March 2023 I report lo the Iruslees on my examination of the financial statements of Mind Active I'lhe ¢harity'l for the year ended 31 March 2023. Responsibilities and basis of r•port As the Irusl&es, you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements. I report in respeGt of my examination ol the charity's aG¢ounls as carried out under section 145 01 the Charities Act 2011 I'lhe 2011 Act'l. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 14515llbl of the 2011 Act. Independent examinerfs statement l am qualified to undertake the examinalon by being a qualified member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants IACCAI. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come lo my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe= accounling record5 were not kept in respecl of the Charity as required by section 130 01 the Charities Act., or the financial slalements do not accord with those records., or the financial statements do not comply with the accc>unting requirements concerning the form and conlenl of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'trLJe and lai¢ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination lo which attention should be drawn in this report in order lo enable a proper understanding of the acGounls lo be reached. Jane Freeman FCCA Independent Examiner 58 Durham Road Birtley Co Durham DH3 2QJ
Mind Active Statement of Financial Activities (including income and expenditure account) Year ended 31 March 2023 2023 Restricted funds Total funds 2022 Unrestricted funds Total funds Note Income Donations and grants Investment income 4,889 459 48,500 53.389 459 67.184 242 Total income 5,348 48,500 53.848 67,426 Expenditure Expenditure on raising funds.. Costs of raising donations and grants Governance 14.676 73,420 2,250 88,097 2.250 86,304 2,280 Total expenditure 14,676 75,670 90.347 88,584 Net expenditure 19,3281 127,1701 136,4991 121,1581 Transfers between funds 1,315 11,3151 Net movement in funds 18,0131 128,4851 {36.4981 121,1581 Reconclliation of funds Total funds brought foThward Total funds carrfed forward 107.870 41,849 149,719 170,877 99.857 13,364 113,221 149.719 The statement of financial activilies includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing aclivities. The notes on pages 7 to 12 forrn part of these financial statements.
Mind Active Statement of Financial Position 31 March 2023 2023 2022 Note Current assets Oeblors Cash at bank and in hand 10 400 134,391 344 170,945 134,791 171,289 Creditors.. amounts falling due within one year Net current a55ets 121,5701 113,221 121,5701 149,719 Total assets lèss current Ilabllltles 113,221 149,719 Funds of the charity Reslricled funds Unrestricted funds 13,364 99,857 41,849 107,870 Total charity funds 12 113,221 149,719 These financial statements were approved by the board of Iruslees and aulhorised for issue on and are signed on behalf of the board by.. G Slaughter Chair G Easton Trustee The notes on page5 7 to 12 form part of these financlal statement5.
Mind Active Notes to the Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2023 Accounting pollcles Basis of preparation The financial slalemenls have been prepared on the historical cost basis. The financial slalemenls are prepared in sterling, which is the functional ¢urrency of the enlily. Going concem There are no tnalerial uncertainties about the charity's ability lo continue. Fund accountlng Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Iruslees lo further any of the charity's purposes. Designated funds are unrestricted funds eamarked by the Iruslee5 for particular future project or orFTrmilmenl. Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure declared by the donor or through the terms of an appeal, and fall into one of two sub-classes.. restricted income funds or endowment funds. Incomlng resources All incoming resources are included in the slalemenl of financial activities when enlillemenl has passed to the charity". il is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow lo the charity and the amount can be reliably measured. The following specific policies are applied lo particular categories of income.. income from donations or grants is recognised when there is evidence of enlillemenl lo the gift, receipl is probable and ils amount can be measLJred reliably. legacy income is recognised when receipt is probable and enlillemenl is established. in¢ome from contracts for the supply of services is recognised with the delivery of the contracted service. This is classified as unrestricted fLJnds unless there is a conlraclual requirement for il lo be spent on a particular purpose and returned if unspent, in which case it may be regarded as restricted. Re$our¢es expended Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is classified under headings of the slalemenl of financial activities to which il relates.. expenditure on raising funds includes the costs of all fundraising activities, events, non-charilable trading aclivilies, and the sale of donated goods. expenditure on charitsble acts'vilies includes all costs incurred by a charity in undertaking activities that further its charitable aims for the benefit of its beneficiaries. including those support costs and costs relating to the governance ol the charity apportioned to charitable aclivities.
Mind Active Note5 to the Financial Slatements {¢¢)ntlnued) Year ended 31 March 2023 Accounting policies (Continued? Resources expended {¢ontlnuedl other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related lo raising funds for the charity nor part of its expenditure on charitable aclivilies. All costs are allocated to expenditure categories reflecting the use of the resDurce. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly lo that activity. Shared costs are apportioned between the activities they contribute lo on a reasonable, justifiable and consislenl basis. Donations and grant$ Unreslricled Funds Restricted Total Funds Funds 2023 Donations and fundraising Donations and fundraising 4,889 4,889 Grants Community Foundation - Kellett Fund Ballinger Trust Community Foundation - Dickon Trust Newcastle Building Society Community Fund Comrllunily Foundation - Prime Fund Northumberland County Council Queen's Platinum Jubilee 15,000 1 S,000 5,000 3,000 10,000 15,000 15,000 5,000 3,ODO 10,000 500 500 4,889 48,500 53,389 Unreslricled Funds Reslricled Total Funds Funds 2022 Donatlons and fundralsing Donations and fundraising 34,692 34,692 Grants Comrnunity Foundation - Kell&tt Fund Ballinger Trust Community Foundation - Barnes Fund 7,500 15,000 9.992 7,500 15,000 9.992 34,692 32,492 67,184 Investment income Unreslricled Total Funds Unrestricted Totsl Funds Funds 2023 Funds 2022 Bank interest receivable 459 459 242 242
Mind Active Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 March 2023 Cost5 of raising donations and grants Unreslricled Funds Restricted Total Funds Fund5 2023 Staff Costs Volunteers Expenses Repairs and Renewals Telephone charges Postage, Printing and Stslionery Healing and Lighting Insurances Rent and R81es Legal and Professional Fees Events, Activities and Training 12,751 101 50,822 3,198 163 1,019 348 1,303 802 2,679 309 12.778 63.573 3,299 163 1,054 457 1,303 802 2,679 1,989 12.778 35 109 1,680 14,676 73.421 88,097 Unreslricled Funds Reslricled Total Funds Funds 2022 Staff Costs Volunteers Expenses Repairs an(J Renewals Telephone charges Postage, Printing and Stationery Healing and Lighting Insurances Rent and Rates Legal and Professional Fees Events, Activities and Training 14,387 53,318 67,705 26 766 985 522 924 2.855 578 11.724 26 766 985 522 924 2,855 578 11,943 219 14,606 71,698 86,304 Govemance costs Restricted Total Funds Funds 2023 Reslricled Total Funds Funds 2022 Support costs 2,250 2,250 2,280 2,280 Independent oxaminatlon fees 2023 2022 Fees payable lo the independent examiner for.. Independent examination of the financial statements 2,250 2,280
Mind Active Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 March 2023 Staff costs The lolal staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as follows". 2023 2022 Wages and salaries 63,573 67,705 Staff Costs were as follows: Wages and salaries Social Security Costs Pension Contributions 58,864 59,074 4,212 4,419 67,705 4,709 63,573 The average head count of ep10yeeS during the year was 312022." 31. No employee received employee benefits of more than £60,000 during the year12022.. Nill. 10. Debtors 2023 2022 Payments in advance 400 344 11. Creditors.. amounts falling due within one year 2023 2022 Sundry cdItorS and accrued charges 21,570 21,570 12. Analys1$ of charitable funds Unrestricted funds At Transfers 31 March 2023 Al l April 2022 Income Expendilu General funds 107,870 5,348 114,6761 1.315 99,857 At Transfers 31 March 2022 Al 1 April 2021 Income Expenditure General funds 87,542 34.934 114,6061 107,870 10
Mind Active Notes to the Financial Statements {¢oniinu8d) Year ended 31 March 2023 12. Analysls of charitable funds (contsnuedl Restrlcted funds Al 1 April 2022 At Transfers 31 March 2023 Income Expenditure Community Foundation - Kellell Fund Greggs Found81ion Community Fund- Awards for All Ballinger Trust Ridley Family Trust Community Foundation - Barnes Fund Community Foundation - Prime Fund Community Foundation - Dickon TrLJSt Newcastle Building Society Community Fund Northumberland County Council Queen's Platinum Jubilee 9,013 13,305 1 S,000 120,2621 111,3411 13811 12681 3,370 1,696 2,545 10,238 1,948 12,5451 120,0211 11,9481 15,000 12681 4,949 4,800 14,8001 10,000 17,7441 {3981 1,858 5.000 14,1741 826 3.000 12,3351 665 500 15001 175,6701 41,849 48,500 11.3151 13.364 At 1 April 2021 At Transfers 31 March 2022 Income Expenditure Community Foundation - Kellell Fund Greggs Foundation Community Fund- Awards for All The Joicey Tru51 Hadrian Trust Northumberland County Council Sir James Knott Trust Charles Hayward Foundation Allen Lane Foundation Ballinger Trust Ridley Family Trust National Lottery Community Fund Pargiler Trust Asian Fund Community Foundation- Barnes Fund 22,536 25,243 7,500 121,0231 {11,9381 9.013 13,305 3,552 2,024 724 11,0071 12,0241 17241 2,545 500 2,644 Isooi 12,6441 2,652 2,652 6,217 8,990 12,6521 12,6521 110,9791 17,0421 15.000 10.238 1,948 554 4,297 750 15541 14,2971 17501 9,992 32,492 15,1921 173,9781 4,800 41,849 83,335
Mind Active Notes to the Financial Statements I¢¢tInued) Year ended 31 March 2023 13. Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricled Funds Reslricled Total Funds Funds 2023 Current assets Creditors less than 1 year Net assets 121,427 121,57DI 99,857 13,364 134,791 121,5701 113,221 13,364 Unreslricled Funds Reslricled Total Funds Funds 2022 Current asse15 Creditors less than 1 year Net assets 129,440 121.5701 107,870 41,849 171,289 121,5701 149,719 41.849 12
Mind Active Management Information Year ended 31 March 2023 The following pages do not form part of the financlal statements. 13
Mind Active Detailed Statement of Financial Activities Year ended 31 MarGh 2023 2023 2022 Income Donations and grants Donations and fundraising Community Foundation - Kellett Fund 8allinger Trusl Community Foundation - Barnes Fund Community Foundation - Di¢kon Trust Newcastle Building Society Comrnunity Fund Community Foundation - Prime Fund Northumberland County Council Queen's Platinum Jubilee 4,889 15,000 15,000 34,692 7,500 15,000 9,992 5,000 3,OOD 10,000 500 53,389 67,184 Investment income 8ank interest receivable 459 242 Total income 53.848 67,426 Expenditure Costs of raising donatlons and grants Staff costs Rent and rates Light and heal Repairs and renewals Insurance Legal and professional fees Telephone Printing, postage and stationery Events, activilies and Irainino Volunteers expenses 63.573 2,679 1,303 163 802 1,989 1,054 457 12,778 3.299 7,705 2,855 522 26 924 578 766 985 11,943 88,097 86,304 Expenditure on charitable activities Accountancy fees 2,250 2,280 Total expenditure 90,347 88,584 Net èxpendlture {36.4991 121,1581 14
Men's Grpup uee um Jubilee MIND Active A<riY Annu INVESTORS IN PEOPLE. sa We invest in people Standard
Registered Charity Number: 1096712 MIND Active 24 Front Street West Bedlington Northumberland NE22 SUB {016701820461 Email.. mindactive@tiscali.co.uk Web" www.mindactive.org.uk FabOok.. MIND Active Bedlington Twitter.. MINDActiveNE •• • Acknowledgements: Thanks to our.. Dedicated Team of Volunteers, Artists, Partnerships. Staff & Students. Trustees,. Gillian Slaughter, Eleanor Kelly, Kelsey Monaghan, Judy Wilboume, Glad Easton & Dr. Catherine Guy. "I think there's been some mistakel" Bank Account: TSB Bank 3-5 Newgate Street Morpelh Northumbedand NE61 1AN Independent Examiner: JFS Torbitt Chartered Accountant 4a Bridge Street Blyth Northumberland NE24 1 BL "You lifted my spirits and brought back memories" (Care Home Resident. 23111122)
Foreword WATBUS has supported Mind active with transport provision for over 10 years and the staff and volunteers get to see first-hand the benefit their work provides to the communities they support. 'Mind active provide much need support to vulnerable and isolated elderly individuals. The variety of activities the staff and volunteers organise are always so innovative, interactive, and fun, it is a pleasufe to provide the transport for such a good cause. Keep up the exlIent workl, Barry Armstong Chief Operating Officer WATBUS IRegistered Charity No 10767291 ,,1 could hardly believe my wife was joining in." (Care Home Visitor. 1712123) WATBUS 1st Class Service - "All aboard"
Vision Enhance the quality-of-life provision of dependent older people. Mission To facilitate inclusive mind stimulating group activities and wider community wellbeing events with older people living in residential care homes and people living with a debilitating condition from their own homes. Charity Objective 2.1 "For the public benefit to improve the quality of life of older people living in Residential Care Homes and Marginalised Older People from their Own Homes in Northumbeiland mainly in South East of the County, primarily but not exclusively by the provision of activities aimed towards social inclusion, mental stimulation and well-being Indoors and Out - Doing What Works
"Welcome to our 20th Anniversary Annual Report" Hurrah. after 20 years providing meaningful quality-of-life interventions, delivering social inclusion that positively impacts on marginalised and isolated older people groups, we finally have true recognition with detemiined drive from within the statutory sector 'picking up the pace, for the need for improved mental health supporl that encourages wellbeing through group interaction. If the last 2 devastating Covid-19 years did anything, it proved the harmful effects of isolation and the massive costs associated with the issue for those affected, a message we knew all too well back then, and have been pushing since the formation of MIND Active,. "Pmmoting Inclusion Through Mental Stimulation" During a long journey travelled, we have supported the mental and social needs of hundreds of thousands of clients, whether living across numerous care and nursing homes or from within their own homes, where isolation and life challenges excluded them from the wider community. It is testament to the positive nature of the project that our charity team tend to stay with us, even to the point where volunteers have transitioned to become recipients of our service. That is how much our local community charity is valued and loved with some of our volunteer artists still with the project since the early days. i¥ We are all justly proud of our efforts. and ifwe had to pick a star among the team il would have to be a Galaxy, as it is all of them. Happy 201fr Anniversary in what turned out to be a super successful year in more ways than we could have ever imagined all those years ago. MIND Active's 20th Anniversary Celebration Gillian Slaughter (Chair)
Trustees The trustees meet regularly to monitor and ensure we undertake activities for the public benefit, particularly those members of our aged community living in residential care homes, as described in our Charily Objective. Trustees Trustees review and ensure finances are used in accordance with grant requirements and within budget. Trustees also support the legal aspects of the organisation. Trustees are personally liable only if the.. 'MIND ACTIVE has enabled me to continue in a social environment with confidence helping with wellbeing, making friendships and lessening anxiety and low mood... Charity suffers loss caused by acting unlawfully. imprudently or outside the tems of the charity's governing document. fi J Charty is commrtted to debts which amount to more than assets. Tfustees have fully complied with their responsibilities with due regard to public benefit when exercising any powers andlor duties, with regular trustee meetings, project updates and periodical reports ensuring effective risk management of project and team. (Volunteer Feb 20231 End of Year Report approved by: (Trustee)..
Artists and Partnerships Ageing Well Network Alnwick Gardens Service Sector Partners Festive Activityrrreats Packs Singer Dolly Mixture Fomier Captain's Luncheon Social Activity Day Venue Themed Tea Dances Andy McGowan Anita James Bedlington Golf Club Bed. Salvation Army Bomarsund Welfare CVA Blyth Valley Dave Minikin Voluntsry Sector Support Northumbrian Music & Patter Fool's Gold Performances Graham Lane Singer Singer Singers Singer Gentle Exercise & Movement Ip Jessica Irving Ken & Jan Phillipson Mark Mccann Mavis Crudace Maypole Group Musical Minds Medieval Dance Show Group Coasts, Parks & Leisure Networks & Alliances NCC/Cramlington HUB Cost-of-Living Crisis Support Payments Northumberland CC Northumberland CVA Pete Cryer Re:Connect BedlRoom Bound Support Tablet Devices Partners Smile Through Sport Group games and Movement SINewsham Football Club Christmas Big Event Tom & Marge Singers Trevor Daglish Musical Mix West Sleekburn Hall Summer Picnics Venue
Reconnections & Growth It has been a challenging few years, with this year being no differenl as we moved from the Pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis, both of which had the potential to negatively impact on the mental wellbeing of our beneficiaries and perhaps even some of our team members. The team performed outstandingly during the Pandemic, and due to sound financial management, continued to effectively deliver as the UK ran headlong into the economic crisis. Our delivery model relies on supporting local venues and these became our warm spaces, where everyone that attended effectively reduced their home energy usage whilst they remained socially connected, fed, hydrated and safe during our activities, all of which helped them to manage on their fixed pensions andlor carer incomes. There is no doubt our working practices have adapted this year with more hybrid working saving time and finances, digital technology being an to aid effective remote communications and payments via secure telephone banking. The technological age has seen the continuation of neOrk and partnerships and online connections which is good for the planet as it reduces car use and our carbon footprint. It also helps the team to use their working hours even more productively as there is reduced travel time involved. All of this saves costs and aids growth as time is refocused on the practicalities of delivery. Full to Capacity - Dancing, Singing, Chatting, Smiling - Shows our Success More than that, the project has experienced a growth in client numbers as the population ages, compounded by a constant change of needs as wider community issues shift from situation to situation, plus they feel they belong and are safe by being part of 'family' of MIND Active friends. It cannot be denied that with attendances regularly at maximum capacity and the witnessing of volunteers transitioning to become clients, we are 'victims' of our own success as positive reconnections led to growth. "You made me feel special" (Bedroom Bound Resident. 2711123)
Ongoing Digital Incluslon During the year. we began to gradually reduce the use of digital inclusion towards more of our preCovid-19 face-to-face delivery, with activity days, summer programme picnics, concerts, allotments, coach outing, etc., and our autumn winter get- togethers. However, the care and nursing homes have been less able to fully engage as they experienced temporary 5ockdowns as they responded to manage Covid and seasonal illnesses. Coupled with the demand from people from their own homes to continue the digital activities they have come to love Sin the introduction during the pandemic, it was decided to continue limited service as we transitioned away from the virtual back to actual people connections. Our reduced digital service continued with the very popular zooms.. men's group"Wise Guys" ladies, group"Glam Girls. and the chair exercises involving care and nursing homes and people from their own homes. This provision will continue through 2023 and expect to come to a natural finish as the social gatherings increase in value. The online support proved invaluable in bringing our older generation into the digital age, but itwas only possible in the care homes due to the technical savvy of the younger carers and our network partner support to provide expensive equipment, simpSe guidan and internet costs, often beyond many of our older people client groups, especially as they reprioritise household budgets due to the cost-of-living crisis. Men's Zoom Group "Wise Guys. Hybrid Connections "Staff commented on one lady who sang along to all the songs, she had never done that before" (Care Home Staff Member Response. 30111122)
Rewards and Incentlves As a Charity we are unable to give volunteers cash rewards for their support, the best we can offer is to cover reasonable out-of- pocket expenses. But there are other rewards just as valuable. even more so since the cost-of-living crisis hit. Volunteering helped them to stay wami by taking part in local community venues, and sustained and hydrated as they enjoyed meals and refreshments with clients. Also. being away from home redUd the energy usage for heating, cooking, hot drinks and saved even more or those on water meters. Local venues rnotivated attendan, redUd the cost of travel for many and promoted car sharing for others. more money saved. But the biggest advantage of all is the mental and physical wellbeing rewards, as being with others with respite from the often-lonely home spaces has allowed them to experience recognised proven benefits, with lifted mood and opportunities to chat and be among like-minded people. Smiling, happy, dancing and chatting to people can do as much good than bottles of pscrIption meds and temporary mood props. Couple all these with our 20 year practice of sending birthday and Christmas cards, shared team get-togethers and genuine encouragement and appreciation are all great motivators, not cash, but praise and thanks in the right measure. Team Building Get-Togethers The low-turnover and amazing results achieved by our team members proves the effectiveness of our practice at all levels. "I love volunteering with MIND Active and always feel like I recoiva more than Igive" (Sharing Your Thoughts Consultation. Feb 2023)
Teamsters: Volunteers, Trustees, Stsff & Partners With a multitude of years behind us, we have learned a great deal about successful recruitment and staying power of a well- motivated charity team. We have invested heavily in a strategy of partnership working and equality with a sense of worth and value reinforced by our internationally recognised Investors in People award held for the last 16 years. Having experienced past challenges of having too many volunteers, we have found a balance that meets the team needs and yet provides each a role in which they feel they belong and are comfortable. We have found once a new team member, and client for that matter. attends for the first time they are keen to return and often stay with us for a considerable period. This proves the success of our well-practiced and efficient delivery model_ **~ Each individual not only has to feel useful, but must also share the wellbeing benefits enjoyed by the beneficiaries. They must also know they have an equal say in the project where ideas are listened to and explored. This winning formula has provided the charity with an effective and motivated team of individuals working to a common goal. a team without whom none of our successes could have been achieved. Alnwick Garden's Elderberries Spring High Tea & Dance "The activities all work well having been tried and tested. This is essentially in the planning and organisation communication which the team have mastered, but also flexibility when needed" (Volunteer feedback. Feb. 2023}
Building Crisis-to-crisis Resilience It cannot be denied the charity trustees have been a huge asset to the sustainability of the project, especially so with the foresight and understanding of the economic risk leading up to Brexit, which set the organisation on a path towards financial resilience, with approval of our auditor, making a valid argument for building our reserves above the Charity Commission's recommended amount. Brexit still not being resolved fully, we then found ourselves dealing with the Pandemic fall-out lasting for more than 2 years with our marginalised older people client groups experiencing the worst effects of isolation. Our financial strategy proved to be a sound plan, providing service security, where our reserves ensured we were able to sustain delivery during lockdowns and local restrictions, instrumental in helping beneficiaries continue to feel socially connected by allowing us the ability to set up new ways of working by taking full advantage of Digital Technology which continues to be an effective delivery model. Our financial resilience continued to prove to be an outstanding model, as we found ourselves deep within the UK financial crisis, totally unexpected so could not have been planned for. As part of our ongoing commitment to maximise the value of grants by negotiating energy deals, reduced delivery costs, car sharing, etc. the charity 'sailed' through the first 9 months of cost-of-living crisis, reassured by the reserves we had sensibly built up when the 'going was good,. For the first time since we began 20 years ago, we have spent the large amount of free reserves during this grant period, however, still working hard secured very favourable terms with utility providers and our partners enabling us to effectively manage our daily running and project costs. It was reassuring to hear during a recent Zoom meeling, funders recognise the need for more financial stability confirming our policy, and we agree, not having the financial worry expressed by many charities, allowed the team to focus on supporting our clients through these challenging times, this success is down to one key element, trustees being prepared by Building Resilience. jicking up where we left off with Covid - Bedlington Golf Club Get-togethers .you keep us thinking, laughing and singing" (Care Home Resident, 312123)
Thanks to the following for their funding support this year. Greggs Foundation
Ballinger Charitable Trust Community Foundation (Kellett Fund) Community Foundation (Barnes Fund) Community Foundation (Prime Fund) Community Foundation (Dickon Trust) Ridley Family Newcastle Building Society Community Fund Stakeford & Bomarsund Parish Council Tea Dance Awards For All Community Fund Bedlington Golf Club Captain's Charity Northumberland CC (Queen's Jubilee Event) Trinity Church Bedlington Funding Partnerships - A Stronger Future Together Our sincere thanks to individuals and groups that supported the charity with funeral service collections, miscellaneous gifts and donations. "Loneliness and despair, lost my family. My own illness was understood. Care and consideration helped me out of my sad situation. New friends and caring staff,. MIND ACTIVE. Worth every penny. Thank you so much" (Sharing Your Thoughts Consultation Response. Feb.2023)
Statistical Data The team has successfully achieved the following: 162 169 12 20 CarelNursing Homes Supported Nationally Local CarelNursing Home Activity Visits Outdoor Summer Programme Events Social Inclusion Activity Day Lunches Queen's Platinum Jubilee Tea Dance 10 Pin Bowling Walking Football (Pilot Session) Golf Club Lunches Cinematic Experiences Christmas Fun Packs Slow Cooker Session Coach Outing Ladies Glam Girls" Groups Men's "Wise Guys" Groups Alnwick Gardens Spring Tea Dance Alnwick Gardens Christmas Tea Dance Zoom Combined Exercises Sessions Christmas Tea Dance Big Christmas Event with homes and community Post Boxing Day Get-together Emailed Quizzes, Themed Song Sheets & Games 22 21 30 41 1,351 Congratulations Betty Bates Cup 10 Pin Bowling Winner 1.850 Total Number of Activities 31,254 Total Number of Beneficiary Attendances "ljust hope you can continue doing what your doing because your doing it well. ("Sharing Your Thoughts" Consultalion Response. Feb. 2023)
Doing What's Needed As the team and beneficiaries rebound from the pandemic, crashing headlong into the cost-of-living crisis, we have been on the offensive,. plotting, planning, changing, adapting and delivering, in essence taking full advantage of one of the most important aspects of independence from service procurement flexibility. The Covid-19 years had many distressing and devasting outcomes across the world, but some positives must be acknowledged and one of those was how client groups and the project team came to better know each other. This has been an inspiration with beneficiaries feeling valued and able to readily share how they feel about the project and the way the team interact and deliver that supports the benefits of meaningful social inclusion. Although the team deliver services, we are influenced and guided by the people we support. Finding out their views and thoughts on new ideas, then obseniing the interaction and listening to their thoughts ensures we deliver to their needs, not what we think is best. The model is so successful we are heavily subscribed and our guests always seem willing to try new ideas such as the phenomenally successful 10 Pin Bowling and the Cinematic Experiences introduced this year. It is evident their wholehearted support makes a positive difference to the quality of life for all that take part, including the charity team. Mood Boosting Heart-warming Cinematic Experiences - Warm Spa, Hot Drinks, Home Baked Sweet Treats, Yummy Chocolate & Company As one of our guests said, "It's not just the activity, it's everyone coming together having a chat and a laugh"
Multi-Faceted Delivery 20 years delivery has taught us many things,. what works best, what didn't come up to expectations and what was thought unlikely to work but proved hugely successful, but the most important lesson of all is to listen to the people we are supporting and delivering for their needs. These aspects ensured together we came through the worst Covid could 'throw at us,, whilst still delivering phenomenal social inclusion sessions in unexpected ways, to now providing hybrid delivery as we moved back to fa-tO-fa delivery. 65£45 Ét£495 The Zoom sessions have been reduced to prioritise those still demanded by client needs, these are the popular and inclusive chair exercises, the men's group "Wise Guys" and the ladies, group "Glam Girls" but even these have hybridised to become a mixture of Zoom and face-to fa-SeSsiOns. As care and nursing homes gradually reopened to outside visits, we have been delivering group activities in the care home lounges, even to the point, where supervised, we are again delivering interactive sessions with room and bed restricted residents. The face-to-face community-based activities expanded to include new interventions, and the demand was such we enjoyed even greater attendances with rooms at full capacity. The use of local venues proved an advantage during the cost-of-living crisis to help manage our costs and access facilities we could not hope to provide, with the 10 pin bowling and cinematic experiences being only two excellent examples, with the positive wellbeing achieved outstripping expectations. Ladies Zoom Group "Glam Girls" Hybrid Get-Togethers No matter what challenges we faced,. on-going Brexit, pandemic fall-out, cost-of-living crises or whatever else, we found a way to include, diversify and deliver. "The most important aspect in my opinion is that we are asked what we would like to do, and give feedback which then has input on future events" (Sharing Your Thoughts. Feb.2023)
Full Steam Ahead MIND Active may have been actively engaging older people and influencing positive social change for the last 20 years, but it is only recently the statutory sector have realised they can no longerjust keep doing, or even afford to do, the same old thing, "crisis intervention" They have finally begun to tackle what has been talked about for the last 30 or so years, that social intefaction makes people feel better, lifts their mood, improves their balance and reduces demand on the NHS and purse strings. It has been a hard journey to get to this point with years of banging the drum at meetings. delivering training, showing PowerPoint presentations, sharing best practice and encouraging sector provider visits to learn from our example. But we are not done yet, with the next couple of years financially secure due to excellent budgetary management, sustainability foresight and a strong partnership network, we will continue our quest to promote change notjust by promoting the quality of life of our client groups, but also by sharing successful working practice at the policy and practical level helping shape statutory sector provision fit for the future. We all need to get on board, stand up to the plate, stoke the fire and release the brake to ensure our older generations are not stalled at the station, but on-track towards a better and more rewarding journey as they approach their final destination. Coasting Along 'Full Steam Ahead" "It was very moving to see everyone come to life and sing- along" (Staff Feedback. 24111123)
Trustees Retum to FaCe-tO-Fa Meetings Doing What Works
Lock Down Communities Getting Back Together "Not alone anymore learned to laugh again" MIND MIND Active 24 Front Street West, Bedlington, Northumberland NE22 SUB Telephone: (01670) 820461 email: mindactive@tiscali.co.uk fl MIND Active Bedlington MINDActiveNE www.mindactive.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1096712 INVESTORS IN PEOPLE.
AuI¥ We Invest In people Standard