# **Ivybridge Youth for Christ Annual Report September 2022 - August 2023** ## **Director’s Report for Ivybridge Youth for Christ** I hope you find this report both inspiring and informative. The return of Rock Solid, attending new events, the Into the Wild residential and supporting local churches in new ways, all helped make this a bumper year for Ivybridge Youth for Christ. One significant factor that shaped the year in the life of this charity was hosting a South West Youth Ministries (SWYM) placement student, Aimee, for the year. This provided the growth in the team which allowed lots of activity to happen, and hopefully in turn, supported Aimee on her journey of learning. Aimee was involved with all aspects of the work that you will read about, except for the bereavement support at the College. We wish her well in her future. The charity worked with around 1000 young people in the course of the year. We trust that there will have been great benefit to them, whether through providing a safe space to hang out with friends, a challenge to look after our world and the people in it, a growth in understanding about faith, and, finally, emotional support when needed. This was particularly relevant this year when we were humbled to be asked to help support the community at the local secondary school in light of a tragedy that occurred in November. ## **Rock Solid Christian Union at Ivybridge Community College (ICC)** After a two-and-a-half-year absence due to the pandemic (the last one being on 11[th] March 2020) we were so excited to restart Rock Solid on the 28[th ] of September 2022. Prior to restarting, the staff team undertook the Ivybridge Community College safeguarding training, by their invitation. Rock Solid is a club which is held to at the school on Wednesday lunchtimes giving pupils the chance to delve into what it means to be a Christian. On the first week back, we had 8 young people in attendance but over the year regularly saw 12-15 attending. Some of our Rock Solid members are from Christian families, some are not, and some have come to us via The Bridge Project in Ivybridge. One Christian young person brought 5 of her friends which was very encouraging. A big change - lunchtime is significantly shorter than it used to be, so we have roughly 20-25 minutes to work with. We have a drink and a snack, possibly a game and then some teaching. The teaching material is usually developed from the British Youth for Christ resource site. We hope to re-start the older Orbit group in due course. Maria Hale (our teacher host) and Aimee have both led the group on occasion. Themes this year included Christmas, Comparison, The example of Ruth in relationships and Easter. Several New Testaments were given out during the Easter gospel presentations. We so pleased to have been able to offer this club for pupils to explore the Christian faith, whether they are believers of not, and look forward to it resuming next academic year. ## **Bereavement Support at Ivybridge Community College** One of the most significant ways that the charity offered benefit to many during this year was sadly due to a tragedy. In November we received news of the passing of a Year 11 pupil at Ivybridge Community College. He was not known to us personally, but many of his friends were, or now are. The college contacted us that evening and we immediately gathered a small team to help support staff and pupils the following morning. We were introduced via a school assembly and then spent the day in a support hub. Some of our team members were also able to offer support in the staff room during break times. The Support Hub was set aside for any pupil who was struggling. Drinks and biscuits were provided, and the team served alongside the College’s pastoral and teaching staff, and staff from Jeremiah’s Journey (a local child bereavement charity). It was extremely busy, not just with pupils grieving about this young person, but with many others, for whom this event had triggered other memories of bereavements and trauma. We are grateful to Kingsbridge Youth for Christ, who offered advice as they had been through something similar in the past. They suggested offering paper and pens for young people to write messages and memories about their friend. The pupils really valued this. Later in the term, the messages were given to the family. The Bridge Project in Ivybridge ran that evening and a large group from Year 11 and many others from the rugby academy attended. It was good to be able to offer them a safe place to gather and continue supporting each other in their grief. Many were there for the first time. The college indicated that they would be grateful for ongoing support over the following weeks and so that weekend we identified members of the Christian community who could be approached for the ongoing support task - church leaders, current and exStreet Pastors, and volunteers from The Bridge Project. We are hugely grateful to those who responded quickly to our call for help. The support lasted for roughly 6 weeks in all. We were also grateful to other local Christians who responded to our plea for spare colouring books, and we were able to order lots of scratch art too. Both were things that young people found helpful to occupy their minds. This was an all-consuming situation, regularly being on high alert, spending large chunks of time listening to young people and then producing several reports for the school detailing safeguarding or welfare issues that we were concerned about. It should be noted that it was also quite tough for our new intern Aimee, who wasn’t getting as much attention as before, but she coped admirably. It was a huge privilege to be so involved at such a time. It was also very encouraging to see the Christian community working together so well to support the school in their time of grief. In May, I accompanied Mark Oliver (Chair of Churches Together in Plymouth) to share my experience with 7 local secondary school headteachers regarding the support we offered young people at Ivybridge Community College (ICC) during that time. This led to a meeting with two of the Senior Leadership Team at ICC about ongoing support at ICC’s Wellbeing Support Hub. ## **CONNECT Youth Gathering at The Youth Venue, Ivybridge** Connect, a Saturday night event set up to link young Christians from small communities, happened once a term this academic year. We welcomed different young people throughout the year, with newcomers from Modbury, Ringmore and Wrangaton. We also welcomed young people from Wired youth group in Ivybridge and The Bridge Project in Ivybridge. Each event started with games and activities at The Bridge Youth Venue and was followed by interactive teaching around a different theme from a Christian perspective. For example, in November we looked at friendships and how hard they can be to sustain. Though small in number, each session was well received, with young people engaging superbly with the activities and with each other. It is good for young people to see that they are not isolated in their pursuit of faith, and we trust that these events have provided that opportunity. ## **The Bridge Project at The Rec in South Brent** This academic year, the bus outreach on Wednesday evenings continued in South Brent despite many challenges. Essentially, the project provides a safe space for the youth of the town to gather and chat, play games and have a hot drink and a biscuit. Credit has to go to our South Brent team who have faithfully served with us, one of them for many years. We were also grateful to 2 volunteers from Ivybridge who stepped in when bereavement, illness and study weeks prevented the team from being there. We have been searching for a new place to park the bus and I was pleased that from January, with the support of the Ivybridge Town Clerk, a half-price agreement was made to park the bus behind the town hall at a cost of £230 a year. Challenging behaviour at the project is sometimes an issue. We are always looking at ways of dealing with this and consequently, after Easter, we split into 2 age groups with a 15-minute break in between. This has really helped with improved behaviour and relationships. Towards the end of the 2022/23 academic year, I worked with the vicar of South Brent, to prepare a grant application to Anglican Diocese’s Roots and Shoots fund, asking for £20k over 3 years (including a year’s development in Buckfastleigh). The church was later granted £5K. With the new funding in mind, we look forward to developing this project over the next year to the continued and increased benefit of the youth in the South Brent area. ## **The Bridge Project Ivybridge at The Bridge Youth Venue** September saw the restart of The Bridge Project Ivybridge on Friday evenings following a 4-week summer break. The project meets for 2 different age specific sessions. Similarly to South Brent, the project provides a safe place to meet, chat, play games and have a drink and a biscuit. The year started with regular attendance, a calm atmosphere and a lot of youth interacting with the board games. I worked closely with the Council regarding youthwork in the town at this time, given that the Youth Genesis Trust ceased operating in Ivybridge leading to the closure of the Youth Leisure Nights and the non-appointment of detached youth workers. Sadly, the Council’s budget was not large enough to support employing detached workers. As we neared the end of the Autumn term, large numbers attended on a Friday night; over 100 young people some weeks. This grew particularly in light of the tragedy in Ivybridge in November. Many Year 11’s, who had previously not engaged with the club, found it a safe space to meet to support each other. As with any drop in youth cafe, there remain challenges **.** As the year progressed, antisocial behaviour increased noticeably outside of the café. There were also some incidents of bad behaviour in the building that we had to deal with. One solution was to put a lock on the entrance to the toilets and only allow young people to go in one at a time. However, on a positive note, some older youths started opening up about their struggles, were keen to be volunteers in the future with younger sessions and were asking about the other events in our youth programme. In a change to previous years, The Bridge Project kept going until the end of July rather than stopping at the end of school term. This then led smoothly into a short Summer Programme which included a necklace making afternoon and a bath-bomb making afternoon. This was a great way to build deeper relationships with young people who had free time over the school summer holidays. We remain grateful to the team of volunteers who help with this project – especially given the late finishes! We look forward to next year and hope they are too!! _Interactive teaching at Connect, new uniform, The Bridge Project South Brent_ ## **18+ group from The Bridge Project** The young people in this category know that they can get in touch if they need further support in future. During this year we have continued to see young people who have grown up through the work, on an ad-hoc basis. Sometimes it can be for fun, sometimes for ongoing support. This has included going for coffee, meeting for craft, having a Sunday roast together and going to quizzes. We also said goodbye to one of our longstanding young people (now an adult), who we worked with a lot during the pandemic. They have moved a long way out of the area. It was sad to say goodbye, but we trust they will be happy in their new home. This young person returned for a visit in August, and we were pleased to meet for a catch up. ## **Wired Youth Group held at Ivybridge Methodist Church (IMC)** Wired youth group resumed on Thursdays in September with its mix of activities such as crafts, cooking and games alongside Christian input. It is a small group, which young people sign up to attend, and as such is a great place to build deeper relationships and explore life and the Christian faith together. Wired was just starting when the Queen’s passing was announced and no doubt many will remember in years to come where they were when they heard the sad news. In October, 15 of us were thrilled to attend the Plymouth Argyle vs Accrington Stanley football match. Plymouth won 3-0 with a packed crowd, and it was great to see some of the group, who had never previously been to a football match, enjoying the celebrations. Many thanks to our supporter, Mark, who kindly organised these tickets for us. Most attendees in our party came from Wired youth group, however, it was great to invite a Year 7 lad (and his Dad) formerly of Shine, Newton Ferrers who were unable to attend last year. In early November, we held a sausage and sparkler evening. Just prior to this session, I had received the tragic news of the passing of a Year 11 student as mentioned previously. All pupils had been informed just prior to going home from school. The young people therefore arrived, having just heard the news and were obviously shocked and upset. Some members knew the young man; others didn’t know how to react. The sausages and sparklers were a good activity for this particular night, as we looked at God’s light in the darkness. We also used tealights to focus a short prayer for his bereaved friends and family and then the sparklers really drew everyone together. One member continues to be affected by his death and Helen was able to support her in her school at one point. In late November, a member of IMC kindly came and led a wreath making workshop where the young people helped produce an Advent wreath for the church. They were then invited to come to a service on a Sunday to light the first advent candle **.** We are greatly encouraged that the links between Wired and the Church are growing. As a charity, we try to create an awareness of young people towards poverty in the World and how they can help be a part of the solution. As such, we ran a session of ‘justice games’ to teach about Fairtrade during Fairtrade Fortnight. We played the chocolate game with Fairtrade chocolate as well as an ‘unfair’ game with 2 teams setting up as businesses but with unfair rules for one! A moving time was had by all as Wired took part in ‘The Easter Experience’ in the church, an interactive walk through 6 stations of the cross. They engaged very well with this. As we headed to the school holidays we held 2 ‘singalongs’ which were loud!!! The ‘Greatest Showman’ at Easter and ‘Mammamia’ in the summer. It was wonderful to see the different members of the group engaging with each other in song and dance. Another aspect of life that we try to encourage young people to develop is their wellbeing. As such, we are grateful to Dr Marian Langsford who ran an introduction to Emotional Logic at Wired. Most of the young people engaged well with it and one young person took part in a follow-up session. As the evenings became lighter, we were able to hold a very enjoyable Scavenger Hunt with 2 teams looking for clues and special items in and around Ivybridge. We tried to bless the Co-op supermarket staff and the Watermark staff by giving them some sweets when they helped the youth with the challenge. This was done intentionally as there had been many reports of local youth terrorizing both of those establishments this year and we wanted our visit to show some positive action by young people. Aimee has been an asset to the team over the year. She has led activities including a great Northern Irish cooking activity and a memorable talk when she sneakily filled a dog food tin with jelly and mars bars to look like dog food. Elis had to eat it and the young people loved watching. She talked about God looking at the heart rather than at outward appearances. Another great success was to run a ‘pea fayre’ which contained many fun challenges throughout the night in order to earn dry peas that gained prizes for the winners. We have held regular pea fayres ever since – a popular activity. We are grateful to the team who volunteer with us at Wired, all from IMC. We were also pleased to be joined by a young person, helping for her ‘Service’ section of her Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. She was a very helpful, excellent volunteer. As the year ends, we are encouraged that Wired has provided a safe place for young people to be introduced to Christianity and faith in Jesus. This is alongside other beneficial activities such learning about injustice in the World and help with coping with their own emotions through Emotional Logic. Coupled with lots of fun, the future looks bright for the Wired group, and we look forward to developing it further next year. ## **Into the Wild Residential in East Devon** During May half-term, three members of Wired, along with Aimee, ventured up, with some trepidation, for a camping residential in East Devon called ‘Into the Wild’. Organised by SWYM, they were encouraged not to touch their mobile phones for the 3 days, to do challenging nature-focused activities, and to listen to the Christian testimonies and teachings from the SWYM team. This really took them out of their comfort zone. A positive experience was had by all, despite a shaky start for some, and all 3 young people made some response to the call to follow Jesus. ## **The Gathering Youth Worship Event in Exeter** ‘The Gathering’ is a youth worship event that we took a trip to in October. The event was led by Open Doors who shared about the experiences of the persecuted church around the world. It included a dramatic mock takeover of the service by the actors pretending to be the authorities from a brutal regime. The young people we took to this event were very enthusiastic and enjoyed being with so many other young Christians. Opening the eyes of the younger generation to the circumstances that other believers live in is something we take seriously and sensitively share with young people when appropriate. _The Gathering, Exeter, Fairtrade Games at Wired, Games at The Bridge Project_ ## **Barne Barton Outreach** Sometimes opportunities come along that are too good to miss, even though they aren’t exactly in our immediate patch. Such an opportunity arose in October, when we were invited to take the Ivybridge Youth for Christ party bus to an alternative Halloween Light Party event. It was organised by Phil Blunt (ex-IMC youth worker) who now serves in Barne Barton, Plymouth with Redeemer Church. We served dozens of children and their families, as well as a handful of older teenagers with hot chocolate. We felt blessed to be able to serve with Christians in this area of economic disadvantage. I was able to follow this up on March 1, with the bus being used as a focal point and drop-in facility to help kickstart their regular youth work. In return, Phil came to Wired youth group for one of our fun nights. He brought along his bouncy castles and led a talk as a thank you. What a blessing. ## **Impact Youth Group at St Georges in Modbury** As a charity, we love to offer support to church youth groups when requested, and with an extra member of the team this year it meant that we were able to do this for St Georges Anglican church in Modbury. Aimee, helped with their Impact youth discipleship group, alongside the local team, leading games and occasional talks. Some of the members of Impact had come to Rock Solid online during the pandemic and have also attended Connect on occasion and so it was great to not only support, but keep the connection going. ## **Summer Programme at The Bridge Youth Venue in Ivybridge** A first for Ivybridge Youth for Christ - a summer programme, the aim of which was to invite young people, including from the Bridge, who have shown a bit more interest in other activities with Ivybridge Youth for Christ. There were 3 sessions, 2 of which fell under this reporting time scale. Necklace making, led by Aimee and bath bomb making, led by Becky from Kingsbridge Youth for Christ. Becky also shared her story of faith, and it was truly inspiring. Although the numbers attending were not huge, we were thrilled with the engagement of those who were there. They learned fun, new skills, and made crafts to take home. It really helped to deepen relationships and give them an awareness of someone else’s faith journey. ## **Party in the Park in Victoria Park, Ivybridge** We were pleased to support this annual town-wide outreach event led by IMC, by taking portable football goals to play games such as Beat the Keeper. It was a wonderful chance to support an event for members of the public and to wear our new Ivybridge Youth for Christ apparel. We are grateful to our friends at Plymouth Christian Centre, who we borrowed the goals from. The event normally takes place in September but due to the passing of the Queen, it was postponed until May. _Cornwood Assembly, Prayer Pots at Shine, The tomb at the Easter Experience_ ## **Cornwood Primary School assemblies** One of the areas where Aimee was encouraged to develop her skills was through primary school assemblies. She successfully helped me lead assemblies at Cornwood Primary School in November, February and March. Topics included the Good Samaritan and Good Friday. ## **Shine Holbeton in Holbeton Primary School** Shine Holbeton is a short lunchtime primary school club on Wednesdays which sometimes sees large numbers attending. All sorts of methods of teaching are used to share God’s story including games, crafts and songs. We taught about thankfulness via the story of the Ten Lepers, and used a slime activity to promote thoughts on different things the children were thankful for. They really enjoyed this! Other topics included Bible accounts such as Feeding the 5000, and the Calling of the Disciples. When looking at the Good Samaritan, the children decorated people-shaped biscuits and thought about who they could be a good Samaritan towards. As a charity, we try to encourage young people to care for God’s earth. This year, a session was held during the time of COP27 considering how to be proactive in looking after God’s creatures. We used a kit to make a bug box which the children absolutely loved and were able to give it to the school for their forest school area. During the Christmas period, Reverend Kim led Shine in Helen’s absence. Helen regularly leads both Shines alongside local volunteers. Helen organised the craft resources for the sessions as well as the Christmas cards and small chocolates for each member of the group. We spent a significant number of weeks looking at the topic of ‘Prayer’. Children loved using a large, working toy traffic light for the games, and learned how Christians believe God says ‘yes, no or wait/get ready’ in response to our prayers. Finally, we looked at the ‘Fruit of the Spirit’. The children studied a different characteristic each week and produced a significant piece of artwork each on the subject, which they really enjoyed doing. The latter part of the year was disrupted somewhat by teachers’ strikes. We were really grateful to the school for being very flexible, allowing Shine to run on alternative days to those scheduled. ## **Shine Newton Ferrers in Newton Ferrers Primary School** Shine Newton Ferrers meets as a club on a Friday after school. It looks at the same topics as Holbeton but is a significantly longer club which allows for more activities, teaching, outdoor play and a drink and fruit. The club restarted in September with a much smaller membership than in the previous year due to the large group of Year 6s that had transitioned to Secondary School. The group grew in number as the year progressed. A smaller group sometimes yields greater conversation, and it was good that we were able to help comfort one young member as she went through a period of grieving. A highlight of the year was the excitable feedback that was received from the children in January, once they had used the Fairtrade Advent Calendars that given to them in December. Behind each door of the calendar there was not only a fairtrade chocolate but also a Bible verse which linked to the activity book included in the calendar. Shine could not meet during December, and the calendar provided a great daily reminder of God’s love for the children. It also reinforced the fairtrade message. During the ‘prayer’ topic the children enjoyed making prayer pots which contained ideas of what to pray for. One girl told Helen she’d used it every day to prompt her prayers. We are grateful to the members of the local church who help with both Shine clubs and we look forward to meeting a new group of children in September as well as the existing members. ## **Easter Experience** One of the big events of the year was working together with local churches to put on ‘The Easter Experience’. This was led by Ivybridge Salvation Army and was a walkthrough interactive event based on 6 stations of the cross **.** We saw over 180 local primary school children visit to learn more about the events leading up to, and including, Easter. This included writing their hopes and dreams on palm crosses and trying the special unleavened bread traditionally used during Passover. ## **Other Christian Events** ## **Civic Service of Remembrance:** Following the passing of the Queen I was asked to represent the charity by reading the lesson at the Civic Service of Remembrance organised by the Ivybridge Town Mayor. ## **United Youth Leaders Gathering:** This termly Christian Youth Leaders’ gathering in Plymouth continued with vigour this year and was a source of great encouragement for many. I led worship for the event in October and further meetings were held in February and in May. I continue to serve on the leadership team, planning meetings and serving at the gatherings. ## **Schools’ Work Gathering:** There was a new opportunity in March - the inaugural Christian schools’ work gathering in Plymouth. Helen and Aimee were able to attend, and it was encouraging for them to see the wealth of schools’ work that is taking place across the city and to make some useful connections. ## **Evangelical Alliance:** Also in March, I attended a very informative Breakfast with church leaders from the Plymouth area at the Evangelical Alliance’s gathering at Redeemer Church. I chatted with former British Youth for Christ Director Gavin Calver who encouraged me, saying that if we were a church reaching 150 young people a week, we’d be making headlines! ## **Plymouth Methodist Central Hall - Pick and Mix:** In June, we were invited to bring along the Ivybridge Youth for Christ bus to showcase our work to members of Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at their Pick and Mix service. There was great interest, and some people enjoyed a hot chocolate as well! ## **Behind the Scenes** ## **British Youth for Christ** Although Ivybridge Youth for Christ is a local charity, we are also a chartered ministry of British Youth for Christ and, as such, receive support and encouragement from them. In 2022/23, as well as attending the annual conference in Blackpool, we joined many of their monthly Zoom prayer meetings, welcomed Paul Bennett (South West Cluster Leader) on his visit to Ivybridge, and attended the local cluster and the annual Focus Day tour, both held in the Taunton area. We greatly valued Beth Duder, our prayer partner from British Youth for Christ. She was both faithful in prayer and very supportive. We were able to give back a little to British Youth for Christ this year by helping them develop ideas for their vision of producing high quality outreach materials that support church youth groups across the country. This online input was in relation to their development of the ‘Heat and Eat’ resource. Sadly, my input was limited to the initial stages as other local commitments became more of a priority. ## **– Networking Other Agencies** Ivybridge Youth for Christ continues to network with many organisations in the local area to look at how we can work together to enhance the public benefit to youth and other members of the community. The **South Hams Youth Network** and the **Ivybridge Town Youth Provision meetings** look at ways of providing activities for youth. **Ivybridge Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Forum** is a meeting of representatives from the Police, Ivybridge Community College, Town Council, and other organisations to discusses how best to prevent an escalation of ASB in the town. I am also a member, by invitation, of the **West Devon Local Care Partnership Mental Health in Children and Young People Working Group** . This provides a good picture of the latest mental health concerns that various professionals in the youth, education and health sectors have. It also gives advanced information about free access to mental health training. ## **Governance and Fundraising** ## **Chartering with British Youth for Christ.** In September, the staff team were able to complete our chartering paperwork to submit to British Youth for Christ. This involved several hours of work to report accurate information for September 2021-August 2022. We were thrilled to work with almost 1000 young people in the area. As a result, we received our new chartering certificate from British Youth for Christ, valid to November 2023. This allows us to operate under their name as a chartered ministry. ## **AGM with a difference** Our AGM, held in July 2023, concluded with a Hog Roast in the garden of Bittaford Methodist Church. The meeting, as well as including reports and input from staff and trustees, featured a lively video of the Shine Newton Ferrers group talking about their club, some artwork on boards from the Shine clubs decorating the room, and a young person talking eloquently about their experience at The Bridge Project in Ivybridge, Wired youth group, and the Into the Wild residential. This was tremendous to witness as they had never spoken in public before. ## **Fundraising:** We continue to be grateful to the many individuals, churches and organisations who have given financial support during this academic year. ## **Prayer:** It has been a pleasure to continue our IYFC Zoom prayer meetings every Wednesday morning and, later in the year, on a Monday. As well as our regulars, we welcomed a few new faces who joined us throughout the year. I also sent out a summer prayer update to churches along with our annual newsletter. Prayer is an area that we wish to enhance next academic year. ## **Trustees:** The year started with the sad news that Natalie Dugdall needed to step down from the team due to increased commitments in her family life. We were able to appoint Dave Beard as Treasurer and Trustee in October 2022. This was closely followed by the appointment as Trustee of Madeleine Allen in April 2023. Madeline made an immediate impact by working hard to find suitable uniforms for our staff and volunteers. We were able to wear them at Party in the Park and regularly use them at The Bridge Projects and at Rock Solid. Madeline also held a trustee and staff social at her home (sadly not in the garden due to torrential rain) which we were extremely grateful for. She took over the role of Chair in July 2023 with Kate Duckering kindly agreeing to stay on for another year to support her in this. ## **Staff Team** **Aimee Campbell** joined the team as a placement student, undertaking a BA in Applied Theology and Youthwork degree at Moorlands College, with further support provided by SWYM. Marian and Trevor Griffiths kindly offered to host Aimee and Sharon English became her mentor. Helen and I prepared an induction week covering many aspects of the work including safeguarding training at the college, a welcome meal at Kate Duckering’s home, and a getting to know Ivybridge tour. During the year, we gave Aimee many opportunities to develop in youth and children’s ministry, and she has been involved in much that has already been written about. Marian and I were able to accompany her as she was first commissioned by SWYM in Exeter in September, and Helen and I were able to attend her baptism later in the year. Aimee didn’t stay with us for the whole of the intended 3-year degree, leaving us at the end of the 2022/23 academic year. She has decided to spend her 2[nd] year with a Christian youth charity called Catalyst in Tavistock who work mostly during the day, rather than the evening commitment with Ivybridge Youth for Christ. We wish her well for her future. **Helen Norton** continued with her 2 posts of Children/Youth Worker and Administrator and is grateful for the ongoing meetings with Sara Bromage for pastoral support. As Director, my official support from Rev. Dave Martin came to a natural end although we continue to meet as friends. It was a tremendous blessing for Helen and I to attend the SWYM Retreat for youth workers at Lee Abbey in June. This was led by Matt and Amy Summerfield with some excellent teaching and prayer opportunities. ## **Training** **Trauma Informed Training** : In March, Helen and I attended a morning’s Trauma Informed Training, offered for free through POP (Plymouth Octopus Project) at Home Park Stadium. We were grateful for the opportunity for Aimee and I to take part in the **Suicide Prevent ASIST** Training in June, held in Yealmpton. Although the training was tough, it was vital for this period of time, with so many young people struggling. I also had the chance to attend the **Living and Telling** Training in Exeter in July. This involved both classroom studies and practical experience on the streets of sharing the Christian faith. A welcome challenge. ## **Volunteers** Many people will remember Chris Mackrill (formerly known as Ash) with fondness following his placement with us through SWYM in 2007 and 2008. Chris has recently returned from living in Vietnam for several years. Whilst looking for employment, Chris was able to visit The Bridge Project and Party in the Park as a guest before taking up a position with SWYM later in the year. Safeguarding continues to be a priority. I ran another safeguarding training evening for volunteers on 27 October. This year’s updated Safeguarding Policy **(** with current safeguarding lead contact numbers), was distributed to all trustees and volunteers. I am so grateful for the many hours given by volunteers to this charity. To celebrate their work, the charity held a Volunteer Thank You cream tea at Ivybridge Methodist Church in January. It was well attended, and people seemed to really appreciate it and enjoy themselves. I would also like to express my gratitude to Nic Courtney (a marketing and Social media specialist from Plymouth Methodist Central Hall) who, in June, helped me hone the presentation I have been working on to promote our work in local churches. ## **Conclusion** The 2022/23 academic year was an extraordinarily busy year for us at Ivybridge Youth for Christ. A couple of things defined the year. Being very keen to support young people in the aftershock of the pandemic, we took the financial step of faith to buy in support from SWYM via a degree student joining us on placement. This created a lot of additional work but brought new opportunities to engage with young people. The heartbreaking privilege of supporting grieving young people in the wake of a local tragedy will be something I will never forget. I am grateful to many who have been supportive during these times of trial and pain. As we look forward to another year of serving our children and youth in the community we do so with hope and optimism. _Elis Norton Director_ ## **Chair’s Report for Ivybridge Youth for Christ** It was great to be back in the Community College with the Rock Solid group after being stopped due to COVID. Wired offered the young people a variety of different activities and opportunities - such as a trip to Argyle, wreath making, Emotional Logic training with Marian, a couple of Sing-a-longs to name but a few. The swift action of Elis and Helen to put together a Bereavement Support Team for support for the young people at ICC was a huge benefit to them and much appreciated by them and the staff. Well done and thank you to everyone involved. _Madeline Allen Chair_ ## **Ivybridge Youth for Christ** ## **Statement of Financial Activities (Including Income and Expenditure Account)** ## **For the Year Ended 31 August 2023** ||**Unrestricted**|**Restricted**|**Year Ended Year Ended**|**Year Ended Year Ended**| |---|---|---|---|---| ||||**31 Aug 23 31 Aug 22**|| ||**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**| |**Income and endowments from:**||||| |Donations and Legacies|46,601|2,088|48,689|45,916| |Charitable Activities|-|-|-|-| |Investments|173|
-|173|10| ||______|______|_______|______| |**Total Income**|46,774|2,088|48,862|45,926| |**Expenditure On**||||| |Charitable activities|54,804|2,060|56,864|48,609| ||______|______|_______|______| |**Total Expenditure**|54,804|2,060|56,864|48,609| ||**______**|**______**|**_______**|**______**| |**Net Income/ (expenditure)**|**(8,030)**|**28**|**(8,002)**|**(2,683)**| |**Transfer between funds**|(1,000)|1,000|-|-| ||______|_____|_____|____| |**Net movement in funds**|**(9,030)**|**1,028**|**(8,002)**|**(2,683)**| |**Reconcilation of funds:**||||| |Total funds brought forward|19,660|19,730|39,390|42,073| ||______|_______|________|______| |**Total funds carried forward**|**10,630**|**20,758**|**31,338**|**39,390**| ||=====|======|=======|=====| ## **IVYBRIDGE YOUTH FOR CHRIST** ## **BALANCE SHEET** ## **AS AT 31 AUGUST 2023** |**£**
**Fixed Assets**
Motor Vehicles
**Current Assets**
Debtors
806
Cash at bank and in hand
28,467
_____
29,273
**Creditors: Amounts falling**
(258)
**Due within one year**
**_____**
**Net current assets**
Total assets less current liabilities
**Net assets**
**Income Funds**
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Total funds|**2023**
**£**
**£**
2,373
4,401
33,566
_____
37,967
(1,741)
**_____**
29,015

31,388

_____

31,388
=====

10,630
20,758
_____
31,388
=====|**2022**
**£**
3,164
36,226
39,390
_____
39,390
======
19,660
19,730
____
39,390
====| |---|---|---| ## **– – Serving Trustees Sep 2022 Aug 2023** **Madeline Allen** was co-opted as a trustee on 26 April 2023 and confirmed at the AGM on 1 July 2023. She became Chair of Trustees on 11 July 2023. Madeline worships at Ivybridge Methodist Church. She serves as a Street Pastor in Plymouth and has been a swimming instructor for many years. **Dave Beard** was co-opted as a trustee on 4 October 2022. He is serving as Treasurer. His appointment was confirmed at the AGM on 1 July 2023. Dave worships at Rediscover Exeter. He grew up in South Africa and was involved with Youth for Christ events in his youth. Dave works in the Product Management field. **Mike Cade** became a trustee in January 2022. Mike is currently serving as the Safeguarding Officer for Ivybridge Youth for Christ. He worships at Bittaford Methodist Church, is a local Methodist preacher, and has previously served as a Street Pastor. He works as Head of Religious Education at Eggbuckland Community College in Plymouth. **Myers Cooper** became a trustee at the AGM in March 2019. He has worked in electrical engineering, software development, mission and church administration, and is currently a company director. He has served in Christian youth work roles as well church leadership roles and is now the Executive Director of Cambodian Communities out of Crisis. Myers is currently serving as Secretary. **Kate Duckering** joined the trustees in November 2012 and held the post of Chair until July 2023. She currently serves as Deputy Chair. She is retired, having worked in the Human Resources team at Torbay Hospital. Kate worships at Ivybridge Methodist Church. **Natalie Dugdall** joined the trustees in January 2021, initially co-opted onto the Board by the trustees. Natalie stepped down as of 6 September 2022 due to other commitments. **Andy Hutchinson (Dr)** was co-opted as a trustee on 28 January 2022. His appointment was confirmed at the AGM on 7 May 2022. Andy has a background in church leadership and English teaching and currently works for Compassion UK. ## **Council of Reference** **Ian and Ruth Hammond (Lt)** are the leaders of the Salvation Army in Ivybridge. **Marian Langsford (Dr)** is a retired GP who worked in Ivybridge for over 20 years. Marian worships at Living Well Church, Plympton. **Jonny Libby** works primarily for Plymouth Methodist Central Hall and has a lot of experience working with youth and young adults. **Jeff Stephenson (Dr)** is a retired Medical Director who worked at St Luke's Hospice Plymouth. **Lois Stephenson (Dr)** Lois is a primary school teacher and has had a long interest in children and young people’s work. Lois and Jeff worship at St Matthias Church, Plymouth. **Charity Number** : 1118117 **Charity Address** : Ivybridge Youth for Christ 16 Tom Maddock Gardens, Ivybridge, PL21 0WE thaiityR*8i5trèllor• No. 1118117 IVYBRIDGE YOUTH FOR CHRIST TRUSTEÉS. REPORT AND UNAUDITED ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023 IVY8RIDGE YOUTh FOR CHRIST CONTENTS Charity REfereDce and Administratve Inforrnation Trustee5' Annuil REPOrt Independent Auditor's Report StatErn2nt olflnandal ￿tIvIt￿$ 8alance sheét Stat•m•nl of cash flows Not￿ to the Flnancial St¥teff*nts 8.15 IVYBRIDGE YOUTH FOR CHRIST LEGAL AND AWINISTRATIVE INFORMATk)N Tr¥5teE5 Mr5 M AIIEn Mrs K Duckerin8 Mr M Cooper Dr M A Hutchinson MrMAVCade Mr D Beard Dlrectov Mr E Norton Secretsry Mr M Cooper Charlty Numbèr 1118k17 Prrncspal id*eJs 16 Torn Maddock G3rdeTh5 Devon PL21 OWE Bankers Reliance 83nk Lirnlted Falth HDUSÈ 23-24 Lovat Lane London EC3R 8EB IVYBRIDGE YOUTH FOR CHR15T TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023 The trv5tees present their repurtand occoufits for the year Ended 31 August 2023. The •¢