2024-03-31-accounts

REGISTERED NUMBER." 6944317 Charlty number: 1135949 BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE TRUSTEES. REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 DonnellyBentley Chartered Accountants Hazlemere 70 Chorley New Road Bolton BL14BY

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Page Reference and admlnistrative details of the charity. Its trustees and advisers Trustees. report {including Directors. Report and Strategic Report) Independent auditors, report stat•ment of flnanGial activltles (including Incomo and Expenditure A¢¢ount) 3-29 30-32 33 Balance sheet 34 Statement of cash flows 35 Notes to the financial statements 3649

. BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRAnVE DETAILS OF THE COMPANY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Trustees W A Wild {Chairmanl Rt Hon J W Straw A H Graham E A Sidat (Resigned 26 September 2023) J Carson (Resigned 24 May 2024) M Ibrahim {Resigned 8 February 2024) K D Robinson ELSwan D Park P M Mellor M J Saxton A S Sidat (Appointed 26 September 2023) P Skupski (Appointed 29 November 2023) J Bates (Appointed 23 May 2024) J H Lamb {Appointed 23 May 2024) Senior Management Team Hannah Allen - Chief Executive Company reglstered number 6944317 Charlty registered number 1135949 Registered office Jubilee Street. Blackburn. Lancashire, B81 1EP Independent audltors Donnelly8entley, Hazlemere, 70 Chorley New Road, Bolton. BL14BY Bankers HSBC, 60 Church Street, 81ackburn. Lancashire, BB15AS

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCLUOING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Contents of Trustees. Report Trustees Report Message from our CEO - Hannah Allen Strategic Parameters Our Year in Numbers Delivering Our Services - Activities, Programmes & Initiatives Plans for the Future Structure, GovemanGe and Management Organlsatlonal Structure Board of Trustees Finan¢lal Revlew Rlsk Management Reserves Pollcy Investment Poli¢y Going Concem Fundraislng Standards Infomiation Business Plan Trustses ResponslbilitEes Statement as to disclosure to our audltors

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE {A company limited by guarante•) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Trustees (also directors of the charity under the Companies Act) present their report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. The Trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) °Accounting and Reporting by Charities {FRS 102)" in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity. Strategic Report A message from our CEO - Hannah Allen: It's a privilege lo be the guardian of such an impactful Youth Charity within Blackbum & DanNen, our team work tirelessly to open our doors 7 days per week overtwo sites and on the street. This yearwe have seen a significant increase of young people benefiting from our services with average attendance being 1,400 per week. Our core purpose is to give young people a space of their own where they feel safe and a sense of belonging. Thi5 year we undertook a consultation with young people who told us above all the Youth Zone is a safe place. We know how important our services are to young people and want to ensure they ara accessible in the context of economic uncertainty. That is why for the third year in a row the board has taken the decision to ensure access to our facilities and a warm meal FS provided for free. This year we have provided 20.127 hot m8als. In addition we are grateful to our donors who have supported our Give and Take campaigns that aim to provide gifts to mark the holidays, coats. uniform and stationary to young people and families in need. Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone is a place for every young person. we are proud that our membership reaches every ward across the borough and reftects the local population, this diversity is mirrored within our wider team. In a time where the wortd seems divided, it is vital we have a safe and inclvsive space for young people to share commonality rather than differences. Although Youth Zone is a safe space for young people to socialise and build friendships, our programmes have been curated to build aspirations, skills and roots to industy- This year we have clearly defined our seven programmes. Young people, partlcularty those from challenging backgrounds, need a trusted advocate, and they need to Sook no further than their Youth Zone. For young people. we always provide somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to. While we fulfil this role for over 5,000 members who ViSFt our venues throughout the year, it is clear from our consultation Ihat our reach should be much broader. Young people and our partners, including community members, told us we should be more prominenl across the borough and not just in our ￿nIres. This will be a key feature of our organisation as we plan for growth over the next five years. We have ￿¢entrY been successful in a bid to the Youth Investment Fund and have received a grant of £3.1 million to completely revamp a large area of our building (The Fusebox.> As we launch our annual report this exciting development will become a new World of Work Cent￿ supporting young people's life journey. We have ambitious plans for this spa￿. and like many of our other programmes, this will be delivered through the Power of Partnership. This year, we have transitioned Ihe Chair of the board from the Rt Hon Jack Straw to Wayne Wild MBE. Through Rt. Hon Jack Straw's leadership, we have been inspired to do more and be more for the young people of Blackburn and Darwen. We have been able to create impactful change and are forever grateful for the support has given and will continue to give as he continues to be an active member of the Board. We are extremely excited for the future of the Blackburn Youth Zone board under the leadership of Wayne Wild. MBE. With th8 changas we will see over the next year, our aim is to ￿rna1n consistent in quality of programming. while strengthening our internal systems to withstand and thrive amongst the change. This yearwe undertook a significant consultation with our stakeholders to inform our new five year strategy aimed to develop and evolve as a service to reach even more local young people than ever before, meeling thern where they are at and supporting them to where Ihey want to be.

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Blackburn Youth Zone Objectlves Blackburn Youth Zone's objectives are to help educate children and young people resident in the North West of England through their leisure time activtties. Blackburn Youth Zone does this by promoting their physical. mental and spiritual potenlial so that they may grow to full maturity as individuals and members of society. The Twstees have given due consideration to the Charity Commission published guidance on the operation of the public benefft requirement and are satisfied that this requirement is met by carrying out the activities described in this report. Strate9lc Paramelors In January 2023, we commenced a root and branch review of our organisation in preparation for the next decade. We consulted widely with young people, our people, parents, patrons, partners and members of our communities. Together, we agreed on the following strategic parameters: Our Purpose: To enable all young people lo reach their full potential. Our Vlsion: For all young people to be safe. healthy and happy. Our Prlorlties One: Place young people at the heart of our delivery & decision-making Two: Extending our reach and influence inlo the wider community Three: Invesling in the Workforce of thé Future Four: Strengthening Partnerships for Enhanced SeNices Flve: Sustainability and Long-Term Impact Six: Revitalising Spaces and Services Our Values Our Values. developed alongside our young people and team members in 2017. still guide how we support each other, our wider Cofnmunity. partners and other stakeholders. These we express as our 'H.E.A.R.T. Values. Honesty is the best policy Excellence Is leamed through experience Accountability Is doing whatever is right Respect Should be universal Teamwork Mak8s Ihe dream work! Our Strateglc Pillars Our work is built on three strategic Pillars. which have guided our hand over the last de¢ade. They have enabled us to focus on the central aspects of our Movement that do not vary, irrespective of the programme. proj8Ct or initiative. These are.. Health & well-being Social integration Aspirations, skills and ernployability Our Delivery Model Our brand of youth work is predicated on personal development through informal education. Even in a play environment, we believe that every young person can leam from their experiences and aim to provide a surplus of opportunities for young people. Over the past year we have developed the seven youth work strands which dr5ve our service offer in line with our engagement model of Try, Train, Team, and Teach. The "Try, Train, Team. Teach" approach allows our young people to experience many new activities for the first time. For those activities that prove popular. we codesign a training programme alongside young peoples. aspirations and help them develop hard (technical) and soft skills (life skills.)

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 If there is sufficient demand and ambition, we then progress to a fomal Team approach through a club. team or initiative, which allows our young people to develop their social. emotional and technical life skills. A small proportion take the activity to the next level and seek a qualification in the discipline. This approach accelerates learning and provides opportunities for essential life skills to form part of a young person's unconscious cornpetence. Our Year in Numbers Below is a summa of our delive out uts. These are contextualised in the section 'Deliverin Volume our Services.. Data Type Explanation Mèmbers 5,414 This is comprised of 2.219 Minis & Juniors (5-7 & 8-12) and 3.123 Youth (13-18.) Membership has increased by 249 com red to 4.091 members in 22123 Young people 13-18 who have completed the Young Leader ro ramme across both our Blackburn and Darwen sites. The Young Leaders initiative began in 2023 and has is continuing to gain momentum over the years These indude Corporate. Individual, Event Young People. and Youn Leader hours. These are made up from Arts Awards, Health and Safety. Food Safety and First Aid Representing delivery hours across our sites in the towns of Blackburn and Darwen This represents the number of young people engaged in polls, questionnaires. and focus groups. It also includes decision- makin sessions delivered throu h our Youth Voice rou This includes activities from every youth work strand and includes 35QA of our members. The focus here was based on needlask and included substance misuse, sexual health, bull in relationshi s and dernocrac The young people 11-18, who gave their time this year to communi ro ects This includes sessions in Blackburn and Darwen and also trips awa and detachedloutreach en a ements Nearly half our membership visited us on ten separate occasions or more. Young Leaders 47 Total number of Young Leader hours All volunteer hours 1,755 6.882 Qualifications AQA. DofE and Sport Level 1 Average hours of service r week Youth consultation 192 90 5.501 Young people trying somethin new Informal education sessions Young volunteers 1,893 2,863 107 Average attendance per week Young people attending ten or more sessions durin the ear Female members Male members Other members 1,491 3,169 Reflective of the borough demographic Reflective of the borough dernographic 15°A of young people preferred not to give their gender or gave identi as other Reflective of the borough demographic Individual vistts across both our Blackburn and Darwen centre Across both our Blackbum and Darwen centres Representing 11°/ts of our membership Ethnic minorities Number of visits this year New members 2022123 Members with a disability or special educational need Members receiving free school meals Members from top 10 % of the most deprived wards in En land 46° 68,149 1,323 387 2,827 This is one of the highest proportions of young people in Lancashire receivin free school meals This is the 2nd highest in Lancashire after Blackpool

8LACKBURN YOUTH ZONE {A Company limited by guarantoe) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORn FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 PIIARCH 2024 Members living in the top 5 de rived borou h wards 52% Just over half of our members reside in the poorest five borou h wards Delivering Our Services - Activities, Programmes & Initiatlves Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone (the brand identity used for the registered charity 1135949 Blackbum Youth Zone) now operates from two sites and across the borough in detached and outreach settings. The largesl of these two venues is on Jubilee Street, Blackbum, which houses, across three floor5, a wide range of youth facilities. The second, in the tovm of Darwen. is located in a temporary space which houses. across two floors, a range of youth programming spaces. Irrespective of the location from which our services operate, we provide high-quality youth facilities across our 7 Youlh Work Strands. These include: Sports and Physical Activity (Next Level. TaAF. 6 Golden Sports) The Arts (Maker Zone. Performance, Making, Music) Diversity (Diversity Zone- SEND, Allsorts - LGBTQ+ supports) Aspirations. Skills and Employability (Youth Hub" Wortd of Work) Emotional Health & Wellbeing (Wellness Zone and Targeted Twilight} Cyber & Tech (Cyber Zone-Al, Cyber. Tech Zone-ESports) Outreach (Street Zone. Community Zone, Enrichment Zone) Access lo our venues and services is provided free of charge. Every young person and member of our youth work teams is provided with a free, hot. nutritious meal at every visit. This includes detached and outreach, where nutritious snacks are distributed alongside healthy drink options. (Hot drinks in winter.) Our three pillars of social integralion, health and wellbeing and aspirations, skills and employability permeate our programmes and aGtivities. We are heavily influenced by the national levelling up agenda and are committed to providing our young people with every opportunity afforded to their more affluent peers across the UK, proving that postcode doesn't determine success. This year, we have seen even more young people a¢cessing our services. projects and programmes and now have a record of 5,482 members. We welcorne an average of 1,491 young people per week, S2 weeks a year, across our two sites and detached and outreach provisions. Youth Zones across the UK historically focus their youth services on a universal offer. We are similar in this regard. but we also provide targeted services for young people who require an elevated level of support. particularly around emotional health and wellbeing issues. Our Seven Youth Work Strands are a useful referen￿ to view both our universal. outreach and targeted offers over the last year. Below is a snapshot of the strands and activities offered wtthin them. Sports and PhysirAI Activity We are committed to delivering a vibrant sports and physical activity offer directed and supported by our young people. We are keen for young people to have the opportunity to try as many activities as possible. and this is central to our Try. Train. Team. Teach melhodology. Our sports programme. tilled The Next Level". funded through the generosity of Gordon Taylor, enables young people to live healthier. more prosperous lives through the power of sports and physical activity and for them to strive for Iheir°Next Level." The three primary aims have been core to our sports offer this year: Children and young people have the opportunity to realise developmental. character-building experÉences through sport, competition and active pursuits. 'Next Lev81" is designed around th8 principles of physical literacy, focuses on fun and enjoyrnent and aims to reach the least active and tackles health inequalities of those most affected. supporting Ihe national agenda of, "every young person participating in 60 minutes of activity every day..)

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company lirnited by guarantae) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDEO 31 MARCH 2024 Use our greatest biggest asset. our building, to act as a beacon for Sporting excellence that drives change and provides a centre ftJr'Next Level" building Young people have told us that football, boxing, cricket, badminton, gym, dimbing, and basketball are their chosen sports (We term these 'Golden sports,). We have plans to develop an academy approach around these as we go forward. As we build the academy, below is a summary of the progress v￿'ve made around sports and physical activity in general Over the last 12 months. Our aim is to increase the number of partnershlps within the community. Building train sessions and aiming to provide provisions in the team portion across all Golden Sports. Actlvities Offered 2022123 Clirnbing Wall Badminton Ice skating 8oxing Dance Volleyball Cycling Football Rugby Cricket Martial Arts club Dance Fitness Open Gym11:1 PT Inter-youlh Zone Basketball Bootcampsl Assault Courses Cycla to London Challenga.. An ever-popular challenge for our young people who, every two months. take turns to cyde the 267 miles from Blackbum lo London. This takes some commitment over two sessions and allows plenty of opportunity to do 'youth work in the wings. Rowing to Manchester Challenge." Following the SLJCLess of the Cycle to London Challenge, young people used rowing machines lo row the 26 miles from 81ackburn to Manchester. Members loved the challenge. and it has become a stsple in the gym sessions. Fèmale only Tralnlngs.. After assessing and much needed change, female-onty football and netball youth sessions were put into place along with our Current open gym female-only sessions. We aim to only increase the amount of Female only sessions to include all golden sports over the next year, including junior sessions. Juniors Competitive Taams: The creation of junior competittve teams for the following sports: netball, football (female and male>, basketball, and climbing wall. The goal is to duplicate across all golden sports across both the youth and juniors, sessions, Basketball Senlor Team: Th8 interest has increased in Basketball and with that, an increased programming schedule followed suit. This includes increased training sessions leading to Team sessions. These included a match against Mahdlo Youth Zone. Golf Introduction.. Over the past year. we have seen an increased interest in golf. We have partnered with Clitheroe Golf Club and théy have donated golf clubs and nets and have introduced try sessions. We have also started Train sessions including driving range practi￿ and time on the course. Quick Quote: "It is so good to see my son play. It's good to know how he s doing, and the win made it extra special." Parent Partn•rships: In 2024, we had the ability to work with multiple partnership agencies, trusts, and foundations. These included: Blackburn Rovers.. Over the last year. we have created the Ewood express programme which gives our young people an opportunity to watch live football matches. This partnership has also led to youth training sessions for

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE {A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 both genders. The female team played in community football toumaments against professional community trusts and we aim to only increase this participalion on both teams. Blackburn Rovers Ladies Team: We were given the opportunity lo have the girfs football team be mascols for the day. In aims to increase female participation in the sport, they had the opportunity to be ball girls for the match and meet and greel with all the players. Tauheedul Boys and Empire Fighting Chance: Boxing is extremely popular with OUT young people. and Empire Fighting Chance is a non-contact form of the sport that achieves the same results of self-discipline and hard work. Tauheedul Boys is a high-performing school, and we have worked closely with them to enable their young men to explo￿ their feelings. This includes how they see themselves developing towards adulthood and plan to contribute positively to society. Female Only Boxing: Through our partnership with Technique Boxing, we led a weekly session exclusively for women. These were led by boxing champion. Brook Louise. at our Blackbum location free of charge to members. Blackburn Hawks: A connection was created with 4-week pilot programme to introduce Hockey to the Youth Zone and successfully created a partnership moving fo￿ard. It ended with a day out at Blackbum Hawks where over 100 young people and family's members attended. We aim to increase Ihis parinership to include Try and Train sessions for Hockey. Case Study - Klckz Poppy began her journey in sports by participating in 'Try' sessions at Blackburn. While she enjoyed the sessions. feedback from the girls revealed that they felt uncomfortable training alongside boys. They expressed a desire for girls-only sessions. emphasising that they believed this would enhance their experience and development. In response to the girls, feedback, the sports coach organised dedicated girls-only session5, led by a female coach. This initiative not only addressed the concems raised bui also created a supportive environment where the girls could thrNe. The Sessions quickly evolved fram "Try" to "Train,. thanks to the high tumout and enthusiastic participation. As Poppy engaged in these tailored sessions, she enjoyed numerous opportunities that enrich8d her experience. Some highlights of her journey include participating in trips like Ewood Express, which allowed her to experience football beyond the training ground, compeling in a toumament at Liverpool FC. which exposed her to a higher level of play and competition. and watching women's football matches at Blackburn Rovers. where she had the unique opportunity to be a mascot and a ball girl during a match, providing her with valuable insights into the sport. Over weeks and months of dedicated training, Poppy developed a genuine love for football. She excelled in her skills. demonstrating remarkable improvement and resilience. Poppy's hard work paid off. and she is now a player for a IoGal football team. Blackburn Eagles. Despite her success with the Eagles, she continues to attend and train at the Youth Zone, eager to further enhance her skills and contribute to her team's success. Poppy's journey highlights the importance of listening to participants. feedback and creating inclusive environments in sports. The transition from mixed sessions to girls-only sessions not only improved attendance and engagement but also allowed young alhletes like Poppy to discover their passion for football. Her story leins exem lifies how tar eted initiatives can lead to ersonal rowth and o ortunities for oun eo orts. Attendance: Number of young people who attended programmlng Engagemgnts: Number of overall Interactions 1,999 18,147

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantoa) TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Engagements: Try 15,538 Engagements: Train 2,135 Engagements: Team 474 The Arts Our Arts offer is represented across three distinctly different programmes. These are Performing Arts. Creative Arts and Digital Arts. Our young people are passionate aboul all genres of 'The Arts,. and we intend to develop our programrnes over the next period further to give this youth work theme greater prominence in our offer. Our Maker Zone makes up a large portion of our Arts programming offering. The main goal of the Arts strand this year has been to In￿eaSe SEND and targeted support while integrating more youth voice based programming into the schedule including more music provisions and upcycling. Activities Offered 2023-2024 Jewellery Making Therapeutic Drawing Sewing Vinyl Printing Up-cycle workshop p￿Clou$ Plastics Comic Book Creation Laser cutting Clay Modelling Henna Art Bubble paint Baklng Club DJ Workshops Scrapbooking Digital Arts Creative Writing Drum Machines Ear Training Drama Music Production 3D Diamond Art Music PerfO￿nanCe Screen Printing Slime Making Gamient Design Festival Of Maklng: We again participated in the wonderful Festival of Making this year. Working alongsidè a local artist, our young people decided to 8xplore the art of fashion and how 'fast fashion, is such an issue in today's society. They also explored the effect of fashion on mental health, culture, sexuality and ccmrnunity togetherness. They planned and designed their art pieces for six weeks leading up to the festival. They made four distinctly different outfits and plan to use them in a showcase at a fashion show later in the year. PTecious Plastlcs: Following interests in up-cyding recyclable materials, two members ventured into creating a business making coasters from recycled plastic bottle caps, titled Star Makers. Creating momentum and interest amongst other members, Precious Plastics was created to support Star Makers and now includes upcycling for other plastic materials. Arts Mental Health Night: Our Youth Voice consultation group members designed and ran an Arts Mental Health Night. They planned and led sessions in relaxation, creative wrtting and drawing, self-care face masks, and art creations. Quick Quote.. ou get the opportunitie5 to record. make newfriends. andpossibly make your own music.- Young person Partnerships: In 2024, we had the ability. to work with multiple partnership agencies, trusts, and foundations, These included: Darwen Music. We Are Noise,. our delivery partner in Darwen, delivered various music programmes four hours a night from Monday to Friday every week of the year. Simple drop-in sessions are available, as well as targeted engagement, subject-specific delivery and group practice. This provision offers the young peop18 the opportunities to take part in a multitude of art practices. which include music production, recording, mixing, perfomiance, singing, rapping. Mc'ing, songwriting. drumming, guitaring, keyboards, DJing. PC gaming, video production, podcasting, radio skills and photography. 10

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantse TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Young Voices Unlte: Alongside 'We Are Noise, (our Darwen music partners), young people participated in a 6 week journey of discovery, exploring music genres. and lyricism session to create musical pieces based on young people-led concerns such as substance abuse, bullying and overcoming financial hurdles. Case Study - The Creation of Star Makers After many months of experimenting, making and recycling, the brother and sister partnership hit on a new business idea to make coasters from discarded plastic bottle tops. (or precious plastics, as we call it here at Youth Zone.) They noticed that during the recycling process for plastics. many cool shapes and designs popped out randomly. They experimented some more and found bottle tops made with the best materials and the funkiest designs. They didn't have nearly enough to make any more than a few products so went on a mission to shout about recycling and set up six collection points across the borough. After a few weeks. these were full to overflowing, and the pair now had their raw materials to get things moving. With the help of their Maker Zone youth workers and Crown Paints (one of their best customers). they launched a new business selling their beautifully recycled coasters. Each coaster is unique and produced to a high standard. They now grace the many dinner tables of Blackburn and Darwen, and demand so far still outstrips supply. °ljoined Bfz, not the most confident person, but my mum pushed me to do a coding workshop in the December which l enjoyed. I went a few times and then covid. Again. my mum pushed me to do some online quizzes, she had to sit next to me as I wouldn't do it on my own, they Soon became the highlight of my week. After covid I became a lot more confident talking to other people. Here is a quote, I live by. "If you have an idea, don't let anyone stop you." -Gareth Attendance: Number of young people who attended programming Engagements: Number of overall interactions 2,435 13.040 Engagements: Try 9,206 Engagements: Train 2,783 Engagements: Team 1,051 Diversity We support young people wilh various special educational needs and disabiltties. Complex needs are adequately catered for across our local partnership network and within schools. Our Diversity strand aims to provide an inclusive space for all young people who enter our walls. Our primary programming within this strand falls into the Allsorts (LGBTQ+) and Diversity Zone (SEND). The goal of the Diversity Strand over the past year has been to increase participation within the Rainbow Zone, build a more diverse SEND programming offer with the support of IMO, and support Ihe progression of Members to universal services.

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Activlties Off•red 2023-2024 Dance Syndrome Mask Painting Gardening Clay Moulding Bracelet Making Canvas Painting Magic Tricks Autisrn Awareness All8Orts Pride Events Allsorts on the Go: Our Allsorts group had the opportunity to travel to Trans Family Fun Day. Blackburn Pride. and the Festival of Making. These opportunities have allowed young people to practise the inclusion. self- confidence. and identity skillset they have worked on throughout their programming sessions. Autism Awareness Day: On National Autism Awareness Day. we took the opportunity to celebrate and recognise the challenges and achievements of those of our Diversity Club members who have Autism. Members shared their experiences with their peers and participated in inclusive programming activities. Quick Quote.. All people with autism need sometimes is a friend, orjust someone lo tslk to. I come to Youth Zone so I can make fnends with people who understand m& and my autism. -J. Diversity Member Partnerships: In 2024, we had the ability to work with multiple partnership agencies. trusts, and foundations. These included: Burberry Project: Young people from Allsorts designed a collaborative mural representing their voices and identities. Using spray paint and stencils, they created a banner that will be displayed at the 8urt)erry Head Offices in July 2024. symbolising their resilience and positive affirmations from their lived experiences. Ignite Cricket: In partnership with IMO. our diversity club & ignite group attending a cricket competition camp, the first they've entered. Despite this, our team placed 3rd place in the toumament. A message from D (15).. Case Study - Autism Awareness Week "People think that because we hav8 autism. we cany follow instnictions. But I have been worf(ing on a Meccano car with Martin. Martin is always patient with me, and when I get things wrong. he doesn't shout. He tajks fo me about ways to fix and let me try". A rnessage from N (9): "People think that just because we have aubsm, our life is boring because sometimes we like to do the same things. After all, it helps us feel safe. But we are all drfferent and still the same ° A Message from C {13): "Usuajly. people donl let me help do baking because they think111 burn myself or get it wrong. In diversity. I have leamt how to do things safely with staff who explain things to ma so that l understand. Today, for autism awareness day, I made a cake nearly all by myself." A message from J (8): 'Sometimes people donl understand what autism is and can end up leaving people out or bullying them. But all people with autism need sometimes is a friend or someone to talk to and go to, We come to Youth Zone and can talk to our lriends and staff who understand us. This makes me happy,: 12

8LACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Attendance: Number of young people who attended programming Engagements: Number of overall interactions 114 4.304 Engagements: Try 4.089 Engagements.. Train 73 Engagements: Team 142 Aspiratlons. Skills and Employability Now in its third year, Youth Hub has undergone significant growth and evolution, cemènting its role as a vital source for the local youth community. The Youth Hub has diversified its offerings to address the needs and interests of local young people. This Includes the introduction of new partnerships with local businesses, educalional establishments, and non-profit organisations. This year. we have spent time working on solidifying the Youth Hub further. With a focus on the development of a 5 tier support system supporting those on the cusp of NEET while supporting those furthest away from the labour market we aim lo put in tools for consistent support across the programme. In addition, we have introduced the co-location of other agencies to the youth zone, for the future development of the Fusebox while continuing to increase our presence amongst the Darwen Youth Hub. Actlvlties Offered 2023-2024 CV workshops Inter¥iew Skills World of Work Tours Careers Fairs Life Skills Galentine's Evenl Badminton Anxiety Workshops Schools Fairs Mentorship Careers Fair On February 29th, we hosted our first Careers Fair of the year at Blackburn Youth Zone in collaboration with the Department of Wofk and Pensions. The event was a resounding success. with 189 young people in attendance from across Blackburn and Darwen. Nine patrons from our network generously volunteered their time to highlight local employment prospects. Additionalty. nine local education and training providers, alongside five emotional health and wellbeing providers, actively participated in the fair. Together. they presented a comprehensive range of opportunities, encompassing work placements. skills enhancement programmes, apprenticeships, specialised courses, and a holistic approach to emotional health and wellbeing. Quick Quote: 'Dare to D￿arn has helped me build up my self-Gonfidence and take a positive step towards entering the world of work. The voucherfs incentives were a g￿8t help to me during my time on placement," there are not many incentivized work placement opportunities around. -CM, Dare to Dream participant Partnerships: In 2024, we had the ability to work with over 13 partnership agencies. trusts, and foundations. These included: Princes Trust, New Directions BWD Adult Learning, National Careers Service, Lancashire Mind, Department of Working Pensions. Lancashire Skills Hub, Blackburn College, Aldridge Academy. North Lancs Training Group, Training 2000, UCLAN, and Star Academies.

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Our partnership approach to aspirations. skills. and progression has been highly impactful, creating synergy among organisations by merging resources. expertise. and ne￿orkS. This collaborative Èffort has significantly enhanced our ability to deliver comprehensive support services and maximise positive impact across the borough. By working together. we have become rnore effective in identifying and addressing diverse educational. employment. and mental health needs, ensuring a holistic approach to progression and development. UKSPF With UKSPF funding, our Aspirations. Skills, and PTogression senrice empowers young people facing barriers to employment by addressing specific challenges and bridging the gap to meaningful job opportunities. Youth Hub Engagement: Our Youth Hub provides weekly one-on-one sessions for 14-18-year-olds. offering personalised support to tackle mental health stigma and lrfe challenges. significantly enhancing their well-being and development. Phase 1 Engage: Young people participate in sessions linked to industry skills. focusing on active lrfestyles, well-being, and community prosperity. The Skills Aspiration Hub aligns with local industry needs in areas like digital, energy. and healthcare. Phase 2 Train: Participants move to induStry-Sp￿lfic workshops, eaming accreditations and gaining work experience through our Industry Skills Incubator Hub. These sessions, supported by local businesses, address skill gaps and provide real-world exposu￿. lrnpact and Benofits: These programmes help young people develop critical skills, improve well-being. and gain practical experience, making them more competitive in the job market whilg benefiting local industries with a skilled workforce and stronger community ties. Henry Smith - Emotional Health & Wellbeing support: The project enables us to work with young people who are furthest from the labour mark8t due to multiple barriers such as emotional health or well-being issues. This year, we have already worked with 145 young people. and the demand for support remains high. This cohort has had the opportunity to socialise with peers. overcome personal barriers. and visit our business patrons. workplaces to gain insight into the opportunities that await them. Through these experiences. they have developed greater confidence and a clearer vision of their potenlial career paths. UK Youth- Hatch programme. Hatch is an employability programme run in partnership behveen UK Youth and KFC. Throughout the programme, we successfijlly supported over 30 young people, with 29 of them progressing to a 4-week paid work placement programme. Work placements took place with KFCS across the Lancashire area and within our patron ne￿Ork with Hertjert Parkinson and Vampire Vape offering suctsssful. meaningful work placement opportunities. Out of the 29 young people engaged in work placements, 11 young people went on to secure more permanent paid employment. Dare to Dream- Care Leavers Initiative. In partnership with Blackburn and Oafwen Council. the Dare to Dream Initiative has been launched as a comprehensive 12-month program exclusively designed for 30 care-experienced young people. The programme aims to equip participants with essential employmenl skills. personalised mentorship, and practical work experience to help them transition smcothly into the workforce and achieve their career aspirations. Placements will be arranged across various local organisationsfrom our patron network, carefully matched to each individual's unique interests and career aspirations. Cohort 1 of the programme has now started with 8 young people identified to participate. Initial 1-1 s have now taken place with workshops due to stsrt in the upcoming weeks. Case Study CM started his Youth Zonejourney 3 months ago. He walked into the Youth Zone with little expectations, hoping to raise his self<onfidence through our volunteer offer. During his interview. CM expressed a keen inlerest in working with young p80ple. However, he had little experience and, therefore. didn't know where lo start. CM openly shared that he didn't feel ready for a job and, therefore, wanted to try volunteering alongside working with our Progression Coach to raise aspirations and help prepare for the world of work. 14

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantoe) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORn FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Due to his passion and enthusiasm, CM was offered some taster sessions on our Junior provision, working alongside our sessional team. Callum was quite shy at the start. However, after a few sessions, his confidence stsrted to grow, which was noticed by the session lead. CM had dear intentions of wanting to personally develop and progress within the Youth Zone. Our employability team (Youth Hub) at the Youth Zone was delivering the Dare to Dream programme, and a project focused on providing care leavers exposure to the world of work. CM took up the opportunity to take part in the programme. This programme offered a 4-week work placement to young carers, with the incentive of a £50 voucher of their choice at the end of every week. It included a series of pre-employability workshops that needed to be completed before any placements took pla￿. CM displayed commitment, enthusiasm, great punctuality, and reliabilty by Gompleting all the workshops and in-house placement. working with our members on both the Junior and Youth provision. Not only has Cm's confsdence grown, but he also has the self-belief required to tske that step into employment Attendance: Number of young people who attended programming Engagements: Number of overall intaractions 159 1,132 Key Membershlp Data: -2300 hours of 1-1 support (increasing from 800 the previous year) -20 careers and aspirations fairs attended Volunteering The volunteer programme across 81ackbum & Darwen Youth Zone has now been fimily embedded within both our offer and our culture. We have a large team of dedicated volunteers whose continuous support has become essential as our membership grows. Our volunteers have donated an impressive 6,882 hours over the last 12 months, providing a rich and diverse level of support, including-. Corporate Volunteers: Our Corporate volunteers have come from 17 different businesses. Out of the 17 businesses, over 200 volunteers sewed over 1.600 hours supporting both Ihe Blackburn & DaTrven Site5. From supporting master classes such as birdhouse building and baking workshops, our volunteer network gives interactive workshops utilising their specialty skillset to provide opportunities d1￿CtlY to our young people. Corporate volunteers also support through a multitude of support services such as present wrapping, event support. and additional young people support during school holiday time. Young Leaders: Our Young Leaders programme has gearad up this year and we already have 49 who have spent 1,755 hours supporting full and part-time youth workers in the delivery of sessions across both of our Gentres. Our support for volunteers also includes facslitsting ten work placements totslling 2,035 hour5. Case Study- Young person turned Young Leader Jo-Ann, (Jojo to her friends) has been with us since July 2022 and Youth Zone is her 2nd hoffte. Jojo enjoys spending time with her friends and is very sporty, playing both football and rugby. She is also a shark when it comes to pool and likes nothing more than challenging all comers to a matchl In her early days with us. her behaviour could be somewhat challenging as she struggled to find her voice. In Februar , she took the bold step to appl to become a Youn Leader and was accepted onto this ve 15

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company lirnited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 challenging course. She faced the challenge head on and this had an immediate effect on her behaviour within sessions. Jojo completed the Young Leaders course with flying colours and has become a great asset to junior club sessions where she now volunteers her time. She is brilliant in managing challenging young people and leading by example. Jojo now wants to ace her GCSES and continue her education at college. with the view to studying sport. Quote from Jojo." -sometimes youjust need to stand up to yourself and realise thatyou get out of things what you put in. I tell our juniors all of the time to be proud of who the are and most of all, believe in urself. I do.. Emotional Health & Wellbeing Emotional Health & Wellbeing Support is Central to our professional practice and permeates every project, programme. and initiative. This is often delivered through our universal setting, but unlike other youth servicing services. we provide targeted through our Targeted programming, Targeted Twilight. The main goal of the Emotional Health & Wellbeing strand, both in targeted and universal provisions, over the past year has been focused on increasing programming and attendance while strèamlining the referral process and procedures. Actlvlli•s Offered 2023-2024 Targeted Twilight Nurture Youth Mentoring Service Projects Workshops Targeted Twilight: This programme is now in its third year and continues to offer support for young people facing crisis or experiencing difficutties in their lives. which prohibits them from participating in universal settings. Specialist youth workers support our young people in regaining control of their lives, rebuilding their self- confidence and esteern while working on their resilience to cope with their challenges. Working as an essential partner in The Transfomiing Lives panel, operated by the borough council, we support the referral of young people presenting a myriad of issues. 41 young people have been nominated to support to our programme and an additional 12 referrals to partner organisations better suited to Ihe needs of the young person. Peshkar Project: This programme was led by a local artist named Alice Eaves who supported vulnerable young people in learning specialism monoprinting while discussing life problems and ftjture prospects. Targeted Twilight Nurture Youth: 6 week programme cohorts (5 over last fiscal year) for 8-12 year olds aimed at taking a small group approach aimed at increasing confidence, self-esteem and emotional health and wellbeing. This programme included sessions focused on resilience, risk-taking behaviour reduction. positive coping skills. civic voice and engagement. and identity. Taryeted Twilight Mentoring.. intensive 6 week prog.ramme5 designed for 8-16 year olds to progress towards nurture groups. A tailored focus on improving confidence and selfesteem while putting interventions in plac8 to reduce risk-taking behaviour while instilling positive coping mechanisms. Mental Health Week: From May 15-21 st, our members participated in workshops focused on resilience. positive coping strategies, and promoting open conversations ￿flecting on their mental health journey. Empowerlng Against Bullylng: A 5 week cohort of 39 young people attended a series of thought-provoking activities and discussions to empower young people to become advocates for change. while creating a Community focused on encouraging positive social interactions. The projects aimed to make a lasling impact on the lives of young people while developing strategies to eliminate bullying. 16

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Quick Quote: "Because of Youth Zone, I want to become a social worker oryouth worker.. - Natasha Akhtar. young person Partnerships: In 2024, we had the ability to work with a multttude of partnership agencies. trusts, and foundations within Emotional Health & Wellbeing. These included: Strong Sisters: This initiative empowers ethnic minority young women to have agency over their own lives. Part of an international movement. Strong Sisters is delivered over many weeks and months. incrementally building confidence and seff-esteem. Trips away punctuate the programme. and our young women have already travelled to Rome to explore the culiure, experience travelling. and, most importantly. adapt to living away from home and managing their finances. Travelling abroad in the BAME community hasn't always been encouraged amongst females due to the stigma Ihat it's not safe for women to travel on theif own. Our London residential challenged our young women to explore the city via the London underground and by visiting the main landmarks. The idea is to encourage and empower young females to explore their oplions when travelling and considering further studies or building their futu￿ careers. Aldridge Project: 6 week programme delivered in small groups, aiming to increase confiden￿. self*steem. and emotional health & well-being for young peopl8 attending DVHS, DACA, or DAES. Healthy Young Minds: Through an initiative funded by Lancashire & South Cumbria Foundation Trust and lead in partnership with Big Tank and Ihe NHS, our members produced and released three short films that explore important mental health topics chosen by members. The topics covered were: social media and body image, balancing home and school life. and coping with intrusive thoughts. Case Study - Targeted Twlli9ht AC joined Blackbum and Darwen Youth Zone to access positive activities and create new positive relationships. During her initial days. AC prefeffed to converse with only her friends and was wary of interacting with staff and otheryoung people. However, after 8 falling out with her usual friends. AC became upset and confided in a youth worker about her past eXperien￿S. Thus she was referred to ffte junior nurture prograrnme. AC, although hawng recently started engaging with the programme. has been progressing well in recognising emtions and exploring stress and anxiety. AC opened up about bullying in her old school. social anxiety and things that cause her stress. Following these sessions. AC has enjoyed filling in her gratitude ioumal. We have also been exploring thinking ermrs. during which she opened up about her inner thoughts. She does seem to view herself negatively and has said that sometimes she thinks hawng ADHD stops her but is starttng to realise that il is not ne￿$SarilY a hindrance. We also discussed and explored the positives she has achieved and the importance of focu&ng on them. She also acknowledged that she has lower expectations of herself but that she can do it even though people around her dont let her concentrate. Within sessions. we have been using her experienGes as foundational elements for the empowerment of resilience and behaviour change. by setting SMART targets. AC has been struggling not to get in trouble in school. We agreed that she would ty to 8chieve 3 men'ts per week, choosing to focus on the positive rather than dwelling on the negative. This positive choice has been followed by her becoming a part of the anti-bullying monitoring team at school. She also recently enjoyed being able to make her own chocolate toastie. as she has never been able to do so before at home. and cooking isn't a subject open to her in school at the moment. Attendance: Number of young people who attended programming Engagements: Number of overall interactions 1.153 5,389 Engagements: Try 5,245 17

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Engagements.. Traln 100 Engagements: Teach Cyber & Tech This year we have expanded our Maker Zone capabilities with the employment of a full-time creative lead who has been responsible for increasing the access our members have to relevant Art & Design, Technology skills and experiences in an infomial STEAM framework. We have been developing and implementing a curriculum as part of the Maker Zone Network with the other prototype maker zones to reduce the barriers our members would traditionally face when trying to access key technologies and instil a DIY "punk" aesthetic of focussing on the core principles and concepts that can be tested and developed with whatever is to hand. Actlvitles Offered 2023-2024 Animation Club Coding 3D Printing Soldering Skills Design Engineering Arcade Emulation Ozobot Robotics Sphero Racing DIY Guitar Pedal BT Speaker Design Origami Circuits Gaming Gen Al Super Sclence Week: We hosted a Super Science weekend to celebrate the start of British Science Week. Over the weekend, members had the opportunity to trial a series of different science experiments, ranging from making slime to baking their own super science slime cakes, experimenting with salt paint and making Iheir salt dough creations. Young people enjoyed getting hands-on and messy. leaming as they played. Bluetooth Sp•akers: During our 8espok8 sessions in November we ran a design project where our juniors created and 3D printed Bluetooth room speakers. The group tested out a variety of individual ideas before crealing the shells of their speakers in finkerCAD. After the designs were 3D printed they assembled the electronic components and soldered everything in place. We had a variety of designs from a sleek. elegant enclosure to a slice of bread with a face on it. Clrcuit Bending and Muslc Hardware: In March we ran a series of projects in the Makerzone duTing youth sessions based around our young people's interests that focussed around the crossover between music and electronics. These included adding a pickup to a ukulele so that it could be amplified and mixed through effects pedals. soldering and assembling a fuzz distortion pedal and taking a toy voice changing megaphone and converting that to an effects pedal too. The young people also got to experiment with connecting a variety of MIDI and recording hardwa￿ to an open Sour￿ DAW (A repurposed imac running linux) so that they could get a feel for music production without a big budget. Arcade Machine prototyping." The members on our youth sessions tested out and built several prototypes for arcade controls to work with the Raspberry Pi-powered arcade emulator built by one of our MZ staff. The young people looked at a variety of button arrangements to work out which fit best for their ergonomics and then built two cor¢trols using real arcade hardware that were housed in cardboard boxes. The controls proved to be very popular and a great talking point for showcasing what you can do with the tools around you. Quick Quote: .1 loved the Sairo Gamification project, especially th8 ideas of making Youthzone look lik8 my favourite video game, Minecraftl . - E, Youth member 18

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantao) TRUSTEES, REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Partnershlps: In the fiscal year. we successfully partnered with several agencies, foundations, and organisations. These included: Sairo Gamlflcation Consultatlon: We ran a workshop with Sairo as part of the National Youth Work Week to gain insight into what facilities our young people wanted from our upcoming building work and development. The young people generated a list of desirable features from the workshop and Sairo used RUNWAY Al to turn these into visuals. These insights were then given to the architecture team to help shape the look of the new building works includin9 focus on the gaming area and how to make the corridors and hallways more inieractive. Virtual Reality Club.. A group of our young people have supported and developed a Virtual Reality Club. The sessions now run every Saturday evening with a range of VR challenges. The young people have created a leaderboard for each activity for a more competitive edge. This has encouraged people to play. compete, and learn new skills. We have also used these at community events, which has also proved popular with all ages and families lrying to challenge one another. Glrl Guides: As part of our Maker Zone Network collaboration with The Making rooms we hosted a troupe of 30 girl guides to lèam about screen printing and laser cutting techniques. Each individual ¢am6 away from the event having made a personalised bag and laser engraved room sign. Case Study - Clrcuit B•ndlng C is a youth member who participated in the circuit bending and music hardware workshop. Typically you could find C sitting by themselves and tend to be guarded. As an individual who doesn't typically interact with peers due to social anxiely and public perceptions, they found a safe space to utilise tech and share their passion with their peers. They sampled songs and were able to learn how to make a music recording studio with things they have at home. Through trial and erros, we were able to design and 3D print small parts lo ensure it was the right fit, volume, and style. Prior to this experience, they've only used acoustic equipment and played classical guitar. Through this programme, we were able to expand their tech skills and experience to a level they didn't know even existed. "I felt safe exploring in the Makerzone and share my passions with the gffjup who were a part of the programrne. I never knew there was a way I could use tech to make my own electric guit8r.' -C. Youth Member Attendance: Number of young people who attended programming Engag•ments: Numbor of overall int8ractions 804 6,473 Engagement5: Try 4,939 Engagements: Train 1,136 Engagements: Teach 398 19

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Case Study - Technology and Making TW (11) attends Junior Club weekly. He is an active participant in many of the sports activities on offer. TW has been a young person who can be very easily influenced by his peers. and on occasion, this has not always led to the most positive outcorne. TW would often follow his friends and participate in activities, even if he wanted to do something different. In recent months, TW has grown the confidence to participate in music and baking sessions. TW enjoys taking a leadership role in baking activities. helping set up resources and helping to clean down. TW supports his peers. ensuring that everyone takes turns and has the opportunity to participate. other Universal Programmes Holiday Activity Fund: During 2023124, we ran three Holiday Activity Fund programmes across both of our venues at Easter, Summer and Christmas. Spring HAF hosted activities such as gardening, Ramadan and Easter celebrations, sports. crafts and games. Summer HAF saw neaty 500 young people and included activities such as a cake decorating competition. arts, and sports while we also provided an increase in SEND support, increased Streetzone programrning, and included our first Stay and Play session for remote workers and their children. EID Family Fun Day: With partnership support from IMO and Once Voice, we successfully celebrated Eid with over 1,000 visitors participating in the fun which included face painting. bounce houses. crafts, food, and community. Presldent's Cup 2023: This annual event brings together Youth Zones from around the country to showcase their talents and achievements with over 400 young people in attendance from 14 dtfferent Onside Youth Zones, Klng Charles 111 Coronatlon: On May 6th, over 200 enthusiastic young people attended the celebfation of King Charles Ill's Coronation. The highlight of the festivities was a grand tea party, where our young people indulged in treats fit for a King. Detached and Outreach The detached and outreach programme is an essenlial support to young people across Blackburn & Da￿en Youth Zone. This programme aims to reduce barriers to inhouse programming by meeting young people where Ihey're at. As the programming offer continues to grow. we have provided outreach support to 2.071 members over the last 12 Months. providing a rich and diverse level of support. including: Aspirations, Skills & Progression Positive Engagement & Mentorship Support Referrals Street Zone: We continue to work in partnership with YPS, IMO and BRCT to provide a coordinaled Detachedloutreach offer. We deliver four sessions a week across Blackburn and Darwen. All Dashboard perfomlance reports are sent daily to the dedicated partner WhatsApp group to ensure that any issues that need addressing are picked up by the relevant partner. We have continued to build partnerships with the local neighbourhood policing team and other agencies. To ensure we have a united offer acros5 all areas. ommunity Zone: Collaborations with local Islamic faith schools through the Madrassah project has allowed young people wider access to our divers8 programmes. Our 'East Meets West, group to participate in activities such as cake decorating, vision boards, female and male sports sessions, and community activity trips. 20

BLACK8URN YOUTH ZONE (A company limit•d by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORTI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Quick Quote: "I love it when I see people from Street when I'm playing outside with my mates. They have ￿allY helped me and my fnends. families. They also run fvn street games just for us and also gwe us free food parcels to take IK)me for our tdmilies. Thank you Blackbum & Da￿en Youth Zone for always being there. You are so caring." - Ivy. Aged 10 Fundraising & Income Streams For every £1 of commission funding received from Blackbum with DanNen council to support the delivery of universal youth services for the borough. we raise a further £14.49. This is derived from a Combination of unrestricted financial support from our local business Patron ne￿Ork. grants, trusts and foundations support from local and national organisations and incorne generated from the hire of our facilities. Our Business Development has been reconfigured within the reporting period to position the charity financially for the future. We have developed a funding strategy that has a range of funding areas and targets which are now more needs4ed. Our funding strategy outlines derived income targets from the following sources: Business Patron support (unrestricted funding) Grants. trusts and foundations 5UPPOrt (restricted funding) Other donations Facilities hire Campaigns and events Patron Involvement Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone continues to be supported by a network of business Patrons. Their giving is p￿diCated on unreslricted funding. which equals £758.078 (30.70A of our total income (Excluding YIF)). The following Patrons supported us in 2023124: Graham & Brown PM+M Senator Brian Mercer Charitable Trust Bowtand Charitable Trust Forbes Solicitors Pets Choice BAE Systems Napthens Solicitors Blackburn College Totally Wicked AMS Accountancy Group Star Academies Trust Navigator Tissue UK Bamfield Construction Nybble Herbert Parkinson Fagan & Whalley Emerson & Fenwick Businesswise Solutions ESF Blackburn Chemicals Staci JDS Trucks Prometheus Sales Geek Northem Industrial- Radwell Kingswood Homes Mergon Peter Cummings Multevo Ltd FMGS Brookhouse Aerospace Limited WEC Group S. T. Murphy Limited Vampire Vape 21

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT> FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Panaz Kay Group Watson Ramsbottom Limited Suez Recycling & Recovery Ltd Cardboard Box Co Symclean Trevor Dawson Cummins Mellor Dobson + Beaumont Hadgraft Electrical Perspex Catchpoint Rosslee Construction Lee Banner Electrical IN4 Damen Terracotta Prornethean lsAurray Building Services Crown Paints Sales Geek ACG Renewables J&A Kay Wellocks Elgra Furrjiture Pendle Doors Gordon Taylor OBE Cube Funder Bright Blue Foods MK Illumination AMRC Blackburn Round Table We are once again grateful for the continued support of our Patrons, without whom we would not be able to provide vital help and support to the young people of Blackburn with Darwen. In-Kind Support During the year, we have received £92.135 in In-Kind Support. We are grateful to the below Patron5 & supporters who have provided this: Staci - Boxes of Lego, Children's bedding, Glasses Finch Bakery- Brownies and Blondies Cardboard Box Company - Cardboard Boxes Morrisons - Pumpkins Promelhean - Office Equipment Forbes Solicitors Christmas Trees and Lighls, Vouchers Bright Blue Foods - Mince Pies Accrol - Toilet Rolls Collection Cosmetic5 - Various make-up items Rock FM - Christmas Toys Various Patrons - Christmas Toys Flavour Warehouse - Football Boots Multiple Companies - Easter Eggs Grant. Trust & Foundation Funding A major source of income for the charity in 2023124 was derived from Grants, Trusts or Foundations. This amounted to £1,595,136 during the reporting period {59.3Q/o of our total income) and included £227.198 from the Youth Investment Fund for the Fusebox project. The following Grants, Trusts or Foundations supported us in the 2023124 financial year. Clothworkers, Foundation Shepherd Street Trust Burberry Foundation Tes¢0 Community Grant Leathersellers UK Youth- HATCH Henry Srnith Charitable Twst MPT Steps 22

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlt•d by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 UK Shared Prosperity John Lewis Foundation UKH Foundation Peter Harrison Foundation Eric Wright Foundalion Holiday Activity Fund Onside Impact Fund Prudence Trust UK Youth Futureproof BBC Children In Need NCS Masonic Trust BWD Council UCLAN Million Hours Fund Barclays Community Football Fund The Big Gtve The Casey Trust WMandB WLloyd Charity D'OYEY Carte Charitable Trust DCMS {YIF) Amazon Events. Gift Ald & Community Fundralsing Fundraising Events continue to be an important income stream forthe Gharity With a total of £130,705 being raised. Our biggest fundraising event continues to be the very popular Blackburn Beer & Gin Festival which raised income of £54.603 whilsl the Big Give raised an additional £26,696. Fundraising on behalf of the Youth Zone by third parties raised £24.479 and we are very grateful to the organisations involved. Facllity Hlre Due to the uncertainty of access to the building caused by the refurbishment project, we did not promote the use of our facilities to third parties. However, as a result of existing commitments we did raise £8,918 during the year. Once the refurbishment is complete in early 2025 we will be promoting the use of Ihe facilities more and hope to raise substantial funds in the future. Plans for the Future Fuse Box Development Following last year's exciting news that we had secured £3.1 Million from the Government's Youth Investment Fund (YIF) we have spent the last year planning and designing the new facilities. The main contractor was appointed towards the end of the year and construction commenced in April 2024. The project will be completed in early 2025. The fvnding will support the development of our iconic Fusebox. one of the first electricity generating centres in the United Kingdom, as an advanced world of work centre. This will house our Youth Employability Hub and provide essential facilities for young people to explore a range of skills in preparation for the future. We aim to retain the unique qualty of our building whilst transforming it into an inspiring place for young people to dream the dreams they deserve to dream. Alongside the Fusebox development. the funding will also enable us to upgrade our re￿ption and outside area to make them more engaging and usable for young people. We are extremely grateful to the DCMS and the Youth Investment Fund for supporling our work with this substantial investment whith will help and inspire young people for many years to come. Flve Year Strate9y After an extensive consultation with stakeholders. we have created a S year strategy This strategy will seNe as a roadmap of vision and reflects our unwavering dedication to fostering a nurturing environment that utilises youth voice to create a holistic approach to programming. Our strategy serves as a guiding compass, steering us toward a transformative journey of positive impact and growth. 23

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 In pursuing our purpose to empower and uplift the youth of Blackbum and Da￿en, we have identified six key priorities that will seni8 as the foundation for all our endeavours and aligned goals. Prlorlty 1: To ensure young people are al the heart of our delivery and decision making. Prlorlty 2: To extend our reach and influence into the wider community Priority 3: To be an organisation that bullds and invests in Ihe W0￿fOrCe of the future. Prlorlty 4: To work in partnership to enhance services Prlorlty 5: To be a sustainable organisation that has a long term positive impact on young people and the local community Prlorlty 6: To refurbish the Blackburn & Dap¥ven Youth Zones & relaunch services Increased Presence In Darfftn Our Darwen presence has made an imrnediate impact on the 10,000 young people who live in those communities. Our work. in many ways, has only just begun. We are currently configuring a new consortium of youth sector providers. Together Dar¥ven and have already received support for this initiative. We have secured significant 3 year funding for the provision of sports-based activities across the town and plan to appoint a sports and physical adivities manager to oversee the development of this partnership programm8 through Blackburn with Dapwen Council's Together an Active Future programme. Incrèas•d 'Stre8t Zono, Over the past year, we have Introduced our Street Zone provision throughout DaNen. Ensuring that we reach high-need areas on a recurring basis while e￿ating positive impressions amongst young people has been the main goal. With 468 hours served across both Blackburn & Darwen. we aim to make strong connections with young people while steering them towards provisions. Through a Darwen based trust, we have been able to secure a bus which will be Teconverted and brought to a series of locations in Darwen with an aim to reach more young people by meeting them where thèy aro at and helping them towards where they want to be. With Ihis addition, we aim to provide a 74ay provisional offer with designated staff focused on supporting the neighbourhoods of Darnen. Enhance our Emotlonal Health and Wellbeing Offer Our emotional health and wellbeing offer does not match the demand for this type of senrfice. We plan to expand our existing offer incrementally over the coming y&ars to ensure that all local young people's needs are met in this vital area of youth work. Our long-temi aim is to have a fulty integrated emotional health and well-being seniice which supports the NHS and local borough council in providing high-quality earfy interventlon for young people showing the early signs of ernotional distress. Our focus for the next Period is to secure sufficient fvnding to support communities that have been historically underrepresented in accessing this type of care. Internal Restructure for Growth With a large amount of growth and change within the organisation, we have become increasingly aware of the need to restructure the intemal operations. This has included reviewing internal HR systems, organisational structure, strategy development and the streamlining of service strands to futureproof the services we provide. With increased financial support, we plan on increasing the amount of full-time staff on our roster, diversify staff to represent the communities we serve. and anaEyse and improve our employee retention rate while introducing supports focused on supporting employees during their tenure wtth the organisation. Structure, Govemance and Management We operate as a regtstered charity and a company limited by guaranlee without share capital. 'Blackbum Youth Zone, is registered under the Companie5 Act 1985, registration number 6944317. The company is gov8m8d by its Memorandurn and Articles of Association, dated 251h June 2009. Management of the companys affairs is vested in the Trustees. 24

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE {A Company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 In the event of a winding-up. the present members and those who have ceased to be a member thiin one year of such event have guaranteed liabilities of the company to the sum not exceeding one pound each year. Organlsational Structure The legal entity, Blackburn Youth Zone, is govemed by its Board of Trustees, who are also D1￿CtorS for the purposes of Company Law, which retains overall responsibility for the strategic dir8Ction and the organisation's policies. The Trustees cary ultimate responsibility for the conduct of Blackburn Youth Zone and for ensuring that the charity Satisfies its legal and contractual obligations. The Board appoints a Chief Executive to manage the day-to-day operations. To facilitate effectiv8 OP8rations, the Chief Executive has delegated authority as approved by the Board for all operational matters, including finance, human resources and operational delivery. The board approves the strategic plan and annual business plan. scrutinising business perfonnance. induding financial perfomiance. and provides advice to the Chief Executive on operational matters of performance. The pay of the Chief Executive Officer is reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees, benchmarking their salary against those of similar Youth Zones within th6 Onside Networl(. Blackburn Youth Zone is part of the network of Youth Zones estsblished by Onside Youth Zones (Charity Registered in England & Wales no.. 1125893). Many of the operational policies and procedures of the Youth Zone are influenced by being part of this wider netsvork. Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees comprises 12 Directors represenling the public. private and third sector, along with trwo more members who provide additional expertise but do not have voting rights. Trustees Can be nominated for a fixed or indeterminate term. One-third of the Directors will retire by rotation at each AGM. retiring Directors can then be r8-appointed. The Trustees normally meet bi-monthly, where finance and delivery perfomiance are scrutinised and strategic plans reviewed. New Trustees will be recruited according to the needs of the charity and the suitability of possible candidates. The unanimous approval of existing Trustees leads to their appointment. Newly appoinled trustees are provided with a comprehensive induction to Blackbum Youth Zone's provision, including key information about the organisation's development, governance and safeguarding. The Board appointed four new Truste8s during the reporting period with three Trustees resigning during the same period. The Board wishes to record their thanks to the retiring Trustees- E A Sidat. J Carson and M Ibrahim - who ￿Signed in good standing. Financial review." Total income for the year, excluding the YIF project. was £2,462,822 <2023: £1,754,563), with a further £227.198 relating to YIF. Of this amount, £936,151 (2023: £831,079) was from donations, primarily from the local business community. £608.284 (2023: £232,990) was from grants; public grants of £759,654 (2023: £538,520) were also received. and the balance of £158,733 (2023: £151,974) was income from charitable activities, fundraising and investment income. A further £227,198 from the Youth Investment Fund for the Fusebox project was received during the period, of which £158,571 related to Capital. Total expenditure for the year was £2,383.485 {2023: £1,886,239), of which £188,697 (2023: £156.220) related to fundraising activities and £2,194,788 {2023.' £1.730,019) related to charitable activÉties. The resulting surplus for the year of £306,535 {2023: deficit £131,676> was after charging £136,057 (2023: £137.170} of depreciation on fixed assets. Excluding the YIF funding the surplus for the year was £148,344. 25

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarante•} TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The total unrestricted funds held on 31 March 2024 were £810.873 {2023: £562,041). This included a Deslgnated Fund of £135.828 spectfically for the work within the town of Darwen. The total net assets of the organisation as of 31 March 2024 were £5,521,589 {2023.. £5,215.054) Reserves Policy The Board of Trustees of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone has established a reserves policy that appropriately reflects the risks to which the charity is exposed. In reviewing the potential costs that could arise should a significant reduction in income be incurred, the Trustees have detemiined that it is appropriate for unrestricted. 'free'. reserves to be maintained at a minimum 013 months. Due to the current uncertainty in the economic climate. shifting restrictions and an anticipated increase in demand for our services. Ihe Trustees hav& agreed that the Charity will ideally hold more unrestricted funds than the minimum required in the reserves policy. On 31 &t March 2024. the charity had accumulated unrestricted. 'free'. reserves of £810,874. this provides cover equivalent to 5 months of operating costs, within the range that the Trustees are currently comfortable with. The reserves policy does not consider expenditure linked to restricted projects and therefore. covered by restricted funds. The charity has plans In place to regularly review both the sum it wishes to hold in reserves in un￿StrICted funds and the basis for that figure, particularly considering the ongoing irnpacl of the increase in the cost of living. Totsl reserves at the end of the period were £5.521,589 of which £4.756,442 can only be r8alised by disposing of fixed assets. £158,571 of the Fixed Asset figure relates to the Fusebox projed, all professional fees. Total reserves after deducting restricted funds, fixed asset funds and designated funds is £675,045. Investment Pollcy Any surplus funds that are not immediately required may, at the Board's discretion, be invested lo ensure the charity's future sustainability. To ensure such investments are safeguarded; Any decision about investment will be made by the Board (potentially having professional advice) considering the suilability and diversification of investments, including investments in deposit accounts. to ensu￿ that the failure of one investrnent or institution does not have a major impact on Blackbum & Da￿en Youth Zone Investments will be made in line WFth Blackbum & Danven Youth Zone Values Investment performance will be regularly reviewed Records will be maintained of all investments held (including details o charty Accounting controls will be fully implemented to ensure that all dividends or interest payments due are received and accounted for. During the year £341,871 was depostted with various accounts via Flagstone and terms ranging from 3 months 10 12 months ensuring a reasonable spread of maturity should the funds be required. This amount is included in the Cash at bank and in hand total of £948.741. Going Concern The financial statements have been prepared on a going con￿rn basis as the Trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The Trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The budgeted income and expenditure are sufficient, with the level of reseNes. for the charty to continue as a going concern. Risk Management The Board fully accepts its responsibilities under the Charity Commission's Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP). The Trustees have considered the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are committed to ensuring these are effectively managed. The Chief Executive and senior managers have undertaken a comprehensive risk assessment and established risk registers from an organisation and op8rational perspective and have established risk management and control procedures, which are reviewed regularly by the Board. 26

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limit6d by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone's top risks are outlined below. Risk Mitigation Safeguarding Risk of abuse by Blackbum & Dafwen Youth Zone stafflvolunteers Non-reporting of serious safeguarding COn￿mS All staff, volunteers and board members have DBSS and full training on safeguarding. Freelancers and partners must also pnxluce their DBS to work at Blackbum & Dar4ven Youth Zone and have a full induction. We have a nominated safeguarding lead on the Board and an SLT member who acts as our health and safety lead, both are responsible for ensuring we review our annual safeguarding policy and procedures. We have an annual review of our safeguarding policy and procedures. and these are now captured in a new policy review schedule which includes training if required. Health and Safety We review annually, our health and safety policy and procedures and ensure all team members are trained in line with the policy. We have an annual a￿ernal check of our health safety culture and compliance. The BWD borough council manages all statutory compliance to ensure the highest standards. Finance We have a finance committee that reviews monthly income, expenditure and cash. We have a fully resourced finan￿ team r8sponsible for reporting management accounts and ensuring all financial controls are enforced. We have a fully resourced Business Devek)pment team to ensur& we maximise ncome, with govemance around meeting targets. Income Expenditure Cash Perfonmance Poor qualty service. which does not meet the needs of young people Low attendance numbers. which results in low return on investment Poor performance from facilities staff, which results in an unclean or unsafe building Poor performance from catering staff resulting in unhealthy or unsafe food Poor perfomance from Business Development team resulting in financial instability Stsff are fully trained with regular refreshers to ensure youth offer is up to date. Staff values ensure the team is happy, committed and passionate. Proactive membership and engagement. which maximises all routes to securing new members and retaining existing members. Regular one-to-ones and appraisals. along with spot checks where necessary to ensure staff performance is of expected levels. Check- ins with all team members and their managers every six weeks 27

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Reputation Negative impacts on the repulation of Blackbum & Darwen Youth Zone due to: Negative press coverage of incidents Negative opinions of stakeholders due to unprofessional work ethics Mismanagement of time, resources. service delivery Maintain a professional, reliable and trushvorthy appearance through: Attendance at local and regional networking and multi-agency meetings Fulfilling all obligations to funders including reporting and financial management Sharing best practice and research as appropriate Ensuring all policies and procedures are effectively followed and enforced People Staff issues due to,. Tumover Sickness Poor organisational cutturelmorale Poor communication Bumout We have a clear plan to build the culture at Blackburn & Da￿en Youth Zone ensuring all team members feel valued and engaged in decision making. A full review of HR functions was caffied OLrt during the year and as a result we have appointed a dedicated People & Cutture Lead who will ensure that all of our processes are reviewed. Fundraising Standards Infomiation Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone raises funds by approaching businesses and philanthropic individuals interested in supporting young people. We also apply for Grants from Trusts that have the same interest. During the year, we used a mix of our own employees plus the services of an extemal team of freelan￿ fundraisers who assisted with funding bids up to £20,000. The charity is not currently a member of any voluntary scheme for regulating fundraising. Primarily, we work with prospeckn've business Patrons who have been introduced to our Gause on a one-to-one basis. The Chief Executive monitors all fundraising. During the period. the charity received no complaints regarding its fundraising activities. The charity does not do street or door-to4loor fundraising, so it does not come into contact with vulnerable or other people who may feèl intruded upon, unreasonably persistently approached or have had undue pressur& placed upon them. Business Plan A 2024125 business plan has been developed. This will be the benchmark against which the organisation will be monitored. Thi5 monitoring will occur monthly by the Senior Leadership Team and bi-monthly by the Board of Trustees, Each programme of work has an associated operational plan, fed into the annual objectives of all team members across the organisation. Trusté•s R•sponslblllties The Charity's Trustees {who are also directors for the purpose of company law) are responsible for preparing the Annual Report (including the Strategic Report) and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and the United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company Law requires the charity's Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year, Under cornpany law, the Trustees must not approve financial slatements unless they are satisfied that they give a Irue and fair view of the state of the affairs of the charitab5e company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including Ihe income and expenditure of the charitable company. for that period. 28

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE {A company Ilmited by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 In preparing those financial statements. the trustees are required to; Select suitable a￿OUntIng policies and apply them consistently Observe the methods and principles of the Charity SORP 2019 {FRS 102) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent State whether UK accounting standards have been followed, and Prepare financial statemènts on the going concern basis unless it Is inappropriate to assume the charity will continue in operation The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to 8nsure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and. hence for laking reasonable steps for the prevention and deteGtion of fraud and other irregularities. Statement as to Disclosure to our Auditors In so far as the Trustees are aware at the time of approving this report: There is no relevant audit infomiation, being information needed by the auditor in connection with preparing their report. of which the auditor is unaware. and The trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have laken to make themselves aware of relevant audit information and to estsblish that the auditor is aware of this infonnation. This report was approved by the Board of Directors on 28 November 2024 and on behalf of the board by.. Wayne Wild, MBE Trustee 29

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limit•d by guarantee) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS. REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE Oplnion We have audited the financial statements of Blackburn Youth Zone (Ihe 'charitsble company,) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balanc& sheet, the statement of cashflows and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounttng policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, induding Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Praclice). In our opinion the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2024. and of its incoming resources and application of resources. including its income and expenditure. for the year then ended., have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Intemational Standards on Auditing (UK} (ISAS (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditorfs responsibilities for th8 audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide basis for our opinion. Conclusions relating to golng concern In audFting the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees, use of the going con￿rn basis of accounling in th8 preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on the work have perfomied, we have not identified any material uncertainties ￿lating to events or conditions that, individually or coltectively. may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concem for a periixl of at least ￿1ve months from when the financial ststements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concem are describéd in the relevant sections of this report. Other infomiation The other infomiation comprises the infotTnation included in the trustees, report. other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereorl. The trustees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial staternents does not cover the other information and, except to the extent Other￿lSe explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other infomiation and. in doing so. consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we idenltfy such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements. we are required to detemiine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If. based on Ihe work we have perfomed. we conclude that there is a material misststement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Opinions on other matters prescrfbed by the Companies Act 2006 In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit.. the infonnation given in the trustees. report (incorporating the strategic report and the directors, report) for the fsnancial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and 30

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantee) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS, REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BLACK8URN YOUTH ZONE the strategic report and the directors. report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are requlred to report by •xception In the light of our knowledge and understandin9 of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit. we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report and the directors. report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to Teport to you if. in our opinion: adequate accounting records have not been kept. or retums adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us. or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns" or certain disclosures of directors, remuneration specified by law are not made. or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. Responsibillties of trust8es As explained more fully in the trustees, responsibilities statement set out on page 28, the tnjstees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being salisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such intemal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial stat8ments that arè free from material misstalement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial ststements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's abllity to continue as a going concern. disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concem and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either inténd to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operatlons, or have no realistic altemative but to do so. Auditor's r•sponslbilities for th• audit of th• financlal statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditorfs report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if. individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to inftuence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud. are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detsiled below: We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework applicable to the company and the sector in which it operates and considered the risk of non - compliance witti applicable laws or regulations. We detennined that the following laws and regulations were most significant= the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011, Accounting and Reporting by Charities." Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial and Reporting Standard applicable to the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland <FRS102). those that relate to safeguarding and child protection. those that relate to employment law and those that relate to data protection. We designed audit procedures to respond to the risk, recognising that the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment, for example. forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through Collusion. We obtained an understanding of how the company is complying with those legal and regulatory frameworks by making enquiries of the rnanagement. We corroborated our enquiries through our review of board minutes. Our tests also included agreeing the financial statements disclosures to underlying supporting documentation. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and, the further removed non-compliance 31

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS, REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF 8LACK8URN YOUTH ZONE with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements. the less likely we would become aware of it. We did not identify any key audit matters relating to irregularities, including fraud. We also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including testing joumals and evaluating whether there was evidence of bias by the management or trustees that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at.. www.frc.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditorfs report. Use of our report This report is made solely to th8 charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to thè charitable company's members those matters we are required to slate to them in an auditorfs report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and Lhe charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report. or for the opinions we have fonned. Cdo Catherlne Cole FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Donnelly Bentley Limited Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditors Hazlemere 70 Chorley New Road Bolton BL14BY 28 November 2024 32

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted R•strlcted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Note INCOME FROM: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Other trading activities Investments 1.269,726 27.063 115.675 15,995 1.261,561 2,531,287 27,063 115.675 15.995 1,602,589 31,953 117,567 2.454 TOTAL INCOME 1.428.459 1,261.561 2,690.020 1,754.563 EXPENDITURE ON: Raising funds Charitable activities 188,697 990,929 188,697 2.194,788 156,220 1.730,019 1.203.859 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 1,179,626 1,203,859 2,383,485 1,886.239 NET INCOME I {EXPENDITURE) BEFORE TRANSFERS 248,833 57.702 306.535 (131.6761 Transfers between Funds NET INCOME I (EXPENDITURE} BEFORE OTHER RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES 248,833 57,702 306,535 (131.676) NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 248,833 57,702 306.535 (131,676} RECONCIUATION OF FUNDS: Total funds brought forward 562,041 4.653,013 5.215,054 5,346.730 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 810,874 4,710.715 5,521.589 5,215,054 The notes on pages 36 to 49 form part of these financial statements. All incorne and expenditure derlve from continuing activities. The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised during the year. 33

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) REGISTERED NUMBER: 6944317 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024 2024 2023 Note FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 10 4,756.442 4, 707,811 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 199,147 104.448 Cash at bank and in hand 751. 779 1,147,888 856.227 CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year 12 382,741 348.984 NET CURRENT ASSETS I (LIABILITIES) 765.147 507, 243 NET ASSETS 5,521,589 5.215,054 CHARITY FUNDS Restricted funds 14 4,710,715 4,653,013 Unrestricted funds 14 810.874 562 041 TOTAL FUNDS 5.521589 5,215,054 The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on 28 November 2024 and signed on their behaff, by: Wayn• Wild. MBE Trustee The notes on pages 36 to 49 form part of these financial statements. 34

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlt8d by guarant••) STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 2024 2023 Note Cash flows from operatlng actlvlties Net cash provided by operating activities 16 366,495 67.680 Cash flows from Investlng actlvltles: Dividends. interest and rents from investments Purchase of tangible fixed assets Receipt from sale of tangible fixed asset 15,995 {187.528) 2,000 2,454 (7,141) Net cash used In Investing activities 169,533 4,687 Change in cash and cash equlvalents in the year 196.962 62.993 Cash and cash equivalents brought forward 751,779 688, 786 Cash and cash equivalents carried forward 17 948,741 75q,779 The notes on pages 36 to 49 fomi part of these financial statements. 35

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES 1.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and republic of Ireland (FRS 102) the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally AC￿pted Accounting Practice. Blackburn Youth Zone meets the definition of a public benefit entty under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities ar8 initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy. 1.2 Company status The company is a company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The members of the company are the Trustees named on page 2. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £10 per member of the company. The address of the registered office is Jubilee street, Blackbum, Lancashire, BB1 1EP. The nature of the charity's operations and principal adivities are to improve the life chances of young people in the Blackbum with Da￿en area. helping them to gain increased levels of confidence and self-esteem and raising their aspirations for the future. 1.3 Income All income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) once thè company has entitlement to the income. it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Gifts in kind donated for distribution are included at valuation and recognised as income when they are distributed to the projects. Gifts donated for resale are included as income when they are sold. Donated facilities are included at the value to the company where this can be quantified and a third party is bearing the cost. No amounts are included in the financial stalements for services donated by volunteers. Donated services or facilities are recognised when the company has control over the item. any conditions associated with the donated item have been met. the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the company of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be rneasu￿d ￿liablY. On receipt, donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of Ihe gift to the company which is the amount the company would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding arnount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenanl is recognised at the time of the donation. Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable. 36

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POUCIES (¢onllnu•d 1.4 Grants Income from government and other grants are recognised at fair value when the charily has entitlement after any performance conditions have been met. it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. 1.5 Interest receivable Interest on funds held on deposlt is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the company.- this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank. 1.6 Expendituro All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligalion can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the totsl of diract costs and shared costs, induding support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attrlbutsble to a Sing￿ aclivlty are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of ts'me spent. and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset's use. Fundraising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating infomiation in support of the charitsble activities. Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the company and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Costs of generating funds are costs incurred in attracting voluntary income. and those incurred in trading activities that raise funds. Charitable activtlies and Governan￿ costs are costs incurred on the company's educational operations, including support costs and costs relats.ng to the gov8mance of the company apportioned to charitable activities. 1.7 Tanglble r￿ed assets and depreciation Tangible fixed assets are carried at cost. net of depreciation and any provision for impairment. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of fixed assets, less their estimated residual value. over their expected useful lives on the following bases.. Long-term leasehold propety Plant and machinery Motor vehicles Fixtures and fittings Office equipment 2% straight line 25Vo reducing balance 20 % straight line 250/0 reducing balance 33Yo Straight line 37

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantae) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES (¢ontlnued) 1.8 Operatlng lease5 Rentals under operating leases are charged to the Statement of financial activities incorporating income and expenditure account on a straight line basis over the lease tem. 1.9 Debtors and credltors receivable I payable within on• year Debtors and creditors with no statad interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impaimient are recognised in expenditure. 1.10 Cash at bank and In hand Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments wtth a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. 1.11 Provlsions Liabilitles are recognised whén there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement. and the amount of the settl8ment can be estimated reliably. 1.12 Financial instruments The company only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic fknancial instruments. Basic financial Instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequént measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequentty measured at amort1S8d cosl using the effective interest rnethod. 1.13 Pensions The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the company to the fund in respect of the year. 1.14 Fund accounting General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the company and which have not been designated for other purposes. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the note to the accounts. Restrict8d funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the company for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes io the financial statements. 1.15Tax The charity is an exempt charity within the meaning of schedule 3 of the Charities Act 2011 and is considered lo pass the test set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK Corporation Tax purposes. 38

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmlted by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 1.16 Judgements and key sources of estimatlon uncertainty The preparation of these financial statements require certain judgements. estimales and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets. liabilities, income and expenses. Eslimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, induding expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. 1.17 Golng Concorn The financial statemgnts have been prepared on a going concem basis as the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statsments. The budgeted incorne and expendrturé is sufficient with the level of reserves for th8 charity to be able to continue as a going concern. INCOME FROM DONATIONS AND LEGACIES Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Donations Grants Government grants 936.151 150.449 183.126 936,151 608,284 986,852 831,079 232.990 538.520 457.835 803,726 Total donations and legacies Total 2023 INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Unrestricted funds 2024 Restricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Young People's activty sessions Facility hire 16,222 10,841 16,222 10.841 15.853 16.100 Total 2023 39

8LACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 FUNDRAISING INCOME Unrestricted funds 2024 Restricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Events income Total 2023 17 117 INVESTMENT INCOIAE Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 rotal fvnds 2023 Bank interest received Total 2023 Donations includes £92.135 (2023.. £31.085) of In-Kind Support ranging from raffle prizes, toys, bedding and make-up. During the year to 31 $1 March 2024. volunteers provided 6882 hours {2023:4,646) of support to the Youth Zone, which equates to an average of around 132 hour5 {2023:89) per week. DIRECT COSTS Charitable Activities costs Fundraisln9 expenses Total 2024 Total 2023 Catering supplies Commissioning artists Partnership & arrangements Trips and minibus hire Youth activity consumables Fundraising events costs Wages and salaries Pension cost Professional fees Freelance staff 63.590 63,590 28.218 575 81,379 9, 107 55,384 60,247 735,337 9,037 32,575 132,954 15,514 164,572 132,954 15,514 164,572 59,749 920,618 11,630 36,166 10,300 59,749 90,968 1,814 36,166 829.650 9,816 10,300 At 31 March 2023 40

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 SUPPORT COSTS Charitsble A¢tivities costs Fundraising expensès Total 2024 Total 2023 Office costs other building running costs Insurance Other slaff costs Other costs Wages and salaries Pension cost Depreciation Freelance slaff (ProfrtyLoss on sale of tangible assets 137,376 212.331 18,601 18,043 70.313 346,637 8.199 136.057 19,994 137,376 212.331 18,601 18,043 70,313 346,637 8,199 136.057 19.994 841 92,203 254, 175 26,911 14,008 77.120 266,322 6.531 137,170 At 31 March 2023 £NiS (2023:£Nil) of fundraising costs were attributable to reslricted funds and £188.697 (2023: £156.220) were attribulable to unrestricted funds. £1.203,859 (2023: £657,029) of charitable activities were attributable to restricted funds and £990,929 (2023: £1,072.990) were attributable to unrestricted funds. Total govemance costs included within support cash were £24.447 (2023: £20,854). NET INCOMEIIEXPENDITURE) This is stated after charging: 2024 2023 Depreciation of tangible fixed assets: owned by the charity Auditorfs remuneration 136,057 137. 770 During the year. no tnjstees re￿iVed any remuneration (2023 - £NIL). During the year, no trustees received any benefits in kind (2023 - £NIL). During the year, 6 trustees received reimbursement of expenses totaling £446 <2023 - 2 trustees totaling £37). STAFF COSTS Staff costs were as follows: 2024 2023 Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs 1.184,339 82,916 19,829 936.045 65.674 15.568 41

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guaranteo) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The average number of persons employed by the company during the year was as follows.. 2024 No. 2023 Fundraising and administrats'on Delivery 73 66 Average headcount expressed as a full time equivalent.. 2024 No. 2023 No. Fundraising and administration Delivery 36 29 There was one employee whose total employee benefits {excluding employer pension costs) fell within £70.000-£80.000 per annum (2023.1). No other employees eamed more than £60.000 in 2024 or 2023. Key management personnel are considered to be the Chief Executive. Head of Operations and Director of Finance. The total amount of employee benefits paid to the key management personnel for the year was £212,425 (2023 - £163,791). 10. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Plant and Offlce Long-terni machinery. equlpment leasehold Asset under Motor fixtures and and property construction vehicles fittlngs computers Total Cost At 1 April 2023 Additions Disposals 5,515,459 19,794 155.804 23,445 33,577 51,235 5.742,292 5.511 187,528 8.929 42,506 158,572 At 31 March 2024 5.51 5,459 158.572 19,794 145.672 47.817 5,887.314 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 Charge for the year Eliminaled on disposal 873,281 110,309 19,794 107,642 14,546 30,736 33,764 1.034.481 11,201 136.056 8,929 39,665 At 31 March 2024 983,590 19.794 91,452 36,036 1,130.872 Net book value At 31 March 2024 4,531,869 158,S72 54.220 11.781 4,756.442 At 31 March 2023 4,642, 178 48.162 17,471 4.707,811 42

BLACKBURN YOUTh ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 On 17 April 2015 the property from which the company operates was legally transferred to the company from Onside Youth Zones. Onside Youth Zones p￿vioUSlY built and developed the propety with the support of a £5 million grant provided by the Big Lottery Fund. acting as agerst for Ihe Secretary of State. The Secretary of State holds a legal charge over the company secured on the property, for a period of 20 years from 26 February 2009, The charge has terms associated which rf not met by the company could result in the granl becoming repayable. 11. DEBTORS 2024 2023 Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 73,632 126 125.389 15,219 102 89, 127 12. CREDITORS: Amounts falllng due withln one year 2024 2Q23 Trade creditors Other taxalion and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 52,990 43,388 25,958 260,405 31,767 32,985 17.344 266,888 13. DEFERRED INCOME 2024 2023 At 1 April 2023 Additions during the year Amounts released to income 157,872 625,063 (679,912) 33, 743 429,317 (305, 188) At 31 March 2024 157 872 43

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 14. STATEMENT OF FUNDS STATEMENT OF FUNDS- CURRENT YEAR Balance at 1 April 2023 Income Expendlture Transfers Balance at Between 31 March Funds 2024 Unrestrlcted Funds General Funds Designated Fund 456,180 105.861 562,041 1,127.333 301.126 1,428.459 (908,467) 271,159 1.179,626 675,046 135,828 810 874 Restrictsd Funds Restricted Funds Property Reserves 10.835 4,642,178 4,653,013 1,034,363 227,198 1.261.561 (1.024.922) 178,937 1203,859 20,276 4.690,439 4710715 Total of Funds 5.215.054 2,690.020 2.383,485 5.521,589 STATEMENT OF FUNDS- PRIOR YEAR Balance at 1 April 2022 Income Expéndlture Transfer Balanee at Between 31 March Funds 2023 Unrestricted Funds General Funds Designated Fund 468,181 113,050 581,231 1,004,782 205,238 1.210,020 (1,016,783) 212,427 1,229,210 456.180 105,861 562,041 Restricted Funds Restricted Funds Propety Reserves 13,012 4,752.487 4,765.499 544,543 (546,720) 110,309 657,029 10,835 4.642,178 4,653.013 544,543 Total of Funds 5.346,730 1.754,563 1.886,239 5.215.054 44

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Restricted Funds Balance at 1 April 2023 Income Expendituro Fund Balance Transfers at 31 March 2024 Prudence Trust- wellbeing worker Youth Hub Police Commissioner - Knife Crime UK Youth - Futureproof Time to Talk Plus - UKH Foundation Peter Harrison - Triple T Sport UK Shared Prosperity Fund John Lewis Foundation 15,343 94.503 (15,343) (94.503) (92) (500) (1,667) (17,999) (175,000) (99.889) 138 46 500 1,667 13,621 175.000 99.889 4,378 Digital Futures - Maker Zone UK Youth Hatch HAF Easter BWD Mentoring Masonic Charitable Trust Eric Wright Foundation Onside Impact Fund Maker Zone NHS ACMH HAF Summer 23 BBC CIN - DaThven Targeted Support Workar UCLAN Future U 2.897 8,690 32,180 22,881 2.166 36,002 35,000 61,711 46,979 110.725 (8,587) (32,180) (22,881) {2,166) (36.002) {35.000) (49,817) (46,979) (110.725) 3,000 11,894 20,000 7,570 (20,000) {7.570) Lottery Community Fund-Detached Clothworkers - refurb Intervention Room Burberry Foundation NCS Community Experien HAF Winter Shepherd Street Trust Barclays Community Football Doyly Carte Sport England (Wheelchairs) Active Lancashire (Boxing and UV equipment) NCS - IMO HAF Easter 9.980 {9,980) 11,000 10,554 20,250 27,542 2.(100 500 1.000 (11,000) {10,554) (20,250) (27,542) (418) (500) 1.582 1,534 1.000 1.235 {299> 1,888 (369) (71,145) (2,357) 1.519 71,145 2,357 Capital Building Project YIF National Lottery Onside Winter Holiday Hunger Onside Impact Fund Residential 4,642,179 (110.310) (68,627) (75,000) (12,964) {5.644) 4,531.869 1 $8.571 227,198 75,000 12.964 5.644 Total 4,653,014 1,261,561 1.203,859 4 710,716 45

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company Ilmlted by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Providing positive activity and food through the Easter holidays to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds tackling holiday hunger. HAF- Easter Various projects lo help young people, particulady those with special needs, get into employmenl or training. Youth Hub Monies received for the inlts'al conslruction and fitting out of the building. The original expenditure relates to the annual depreciation charge. Capital Building Project To support young people and their families through the cost-of-living crisis. Eric Wright Foundation 1 to 1 and tailored activities for young people struggling with mental health issues. Time to Talk Plus - UKH Foundation To support the pilot year of the Try, Train. Teach Sports and physical activity programme. Peter Harrison - Triple T Spots To deliver positive health and wellbeing Ihrough sport and physical activity. BWD Targeted Community Physical Activiti8s Fund Providing positive activity and food through the summer & winter holidays to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds tackling holiday hunger. HAF Summer 22 & Winter 22 To engage young people, community, and the private sector in community activbties, volunteering and business engagement. UK Shared Prosperity Fund Supporting young people aged 16-24 who are currently unemployed. not in training or learning and who may have a range of vulnerabilities and need help to move into employment, training or leaming opportunilies. John Lewis Foundation Health and wellbeing evaluats'ons in session and signposting for support where needed. Prudence Trust Wellbeing Worker To deliver weekly performtng arts sessions. Ooyle Carter- The Arts Support vulnerable young people, aged 10-17. at risk of involvement in crime, anti - social behaviour and serious violence Ihrough involvement in local sporting activities. Youth Justic8 Fund - Triple T Sports Digital Futures - Maker Zone To develop a fiexible curriculum which aids the quality and impact of Maker Zone. UK Youth Hatch A work readiness programme for young people aged 16-25 who are not in employment. education, or training (NEET) or at risk of becoming NEET. 46

BLACK8URN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 UK Youth - Futureproof The Futureproof programme aims to support youth workers with the tools and time to work with young people to build practical. essential life skills around challenging topics. Onside Winter Hunger To support the delrvery of free visits with a free meal be￿een November 2022 and March 2023. Clothworkers - refurb intervention room Capital refurbishment of the Intervention Room and outdoor space. Burberry Foundation Creative/Enterprise projects. NCS Community Experiences Encourage young people to try different activities and to step out of their comfort zone. Shepherd Street Trust New basketball kits. Barclays Community Football Increase participation in football activities. BBC CIN- Darnen Targeted Support Worker Funding for a Targeted Support Worker at Da￿len Youth Zone. UCLAN Future Uni Connect programme. Masonic Charitable Trust Care Leavers Mentoring programme. Onside Impact Fund- Maker Zone Development of the Maker Zone. digital arts, space National Lottery Contribution to increased costs relating to utilities, staffing and free meals. NHS ACMH Lancashire and Cumbria Mental Health Transformation project. NCS Delivery of NCS programme to 195 young people. Designated Fund The designated fund is a fund to support the work of Youth Zone Dan•ien. 47

BLACK8URN YOUTH ZONE (A company limlted by guarantee) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 15. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS- CURRENT YEAR Unrestrictèd Rastricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors due within one year 66.002 1,127.612 382.741 810.873 4,690,440 20,276 4.756.442 1.147,888 382,741 5.521,589 4,710,716 ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS - PRIOR YEAR Unr8Stricted fvnds 2023 RestriGt8d funds 2023 Total funds 2023 Tanglble fixed assets Current assets Creditors due wlthln one year 65. 633 845, 392 348, 984 562,041 4, 642. 178 10,835 4.707,811 856, 227 348,984 5,215,054 4,653,013 16. RECONCSLIATION OF NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 2024 2023 Net income l(expenditurel for the year (as per Statement of Financial Activities) 306.535 (131,676) Adjustment for: Depreciation charges Dividends, interest and rents from investments Loss on the sale of fixed assets Decreasel{increase) in stocks (Increase)Idecrease in debtors (decrease)lincrease in creditors Net cash provided by operating actiV5ties 136,057 115,995) 840 137.170 (2.454) (94,699} 33,757 (27. 704) 366,495 67,680 48

BLACKBURN YOUTH ZONE (A company limited by guarantée) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 17. ANALYSIS OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 2024 2023 Cash at bank and in hand 757 779 Total 18. PENSION COMMITMENTS The company operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the company to the fund and amounted to £19,829 (2023 £15.568). Contributions totaling £4.335 (2023 - £5,947) were payable to the fund at the balan￿ sheet date and are included in other creditors. 19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AH Graham, who is a trustee. is a director of Graham & Brown Limited. During the year. this company made donations totaling £25.000 (2023 - £25,000) and sponsorship of events of £590 (2023 - £1,540). E Swan, who is a trustee, is a partner of Forbes Solicitors. Wayne Wild, a trustee. is the husband of the Managing Partner of Forbes Solicitors. During the year, Forbes Solicitors made donations totaling £11,833 (2023- £9.165) and sponsorship of evenls of £650 {2023 - £2,000). Blackbum Youth Zone paid £1,080 (2023 £Nil) for legal services. Wayne Wild is the sole director of Lumax Ltd. who are in tum the sole shareholders of 3g Pitch Hire Ltd. During the year the company paid 3G Pitch Hire Ltd £3,135 (2023: £1,265) for the hire of the 3G pitch al AFC Darwen. EA Sidat, who was a trustee until 26 September 2023, is a director of AMS Accountants Group Limited and Signature Tax Ltd. During the year the company made donations of £10.000 {2023 - £12,500) and sponsorship of events of £2.500 (2023 - £840) M Saxton, who is a trustee. is a director of Totally Wicked. During Ihe year Totally Wicked made donations of £25.000 {2023 - £25.000) and sponsorship of events of £4,220 (2023 - £2.230) P. Mellor. who is a trustee. is a director of Cummins Mellor Limited, Chef Jobs UK Ltd and Personnel Checks Limited. During the year Cummins Mellor made donations totalling £8,220 {2023- £9,480). During the year Blackburn Youth Zone paid £nil {2023 £5.844) to Cummins Mellor Limited for recruitment se￿ICes. £3.848 {2023: £1,017) to Chef Jobs UK Ltd for temporary staff and £2,390 (2023: £2,532) to Personnel Checks Limited for DBS checking services. 20. FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS At 31 March 2024 Blackburn Youth Zone had financial commitments of £57.967 (2023: £nil) not included in the balance sheet. 21. CONTROLLING PARTY There is no controlling party. 49