## **Luton Turkish Community Association (LTCA)** 

## **Trustees’ Annual Report for the Year Ended 31 December 2023** 

## **1. Introduction** 

The Trustees of the Luton Turkish Community Association (LTCA) are pleased to present their Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2023. This report outlines the charity’s activities, achievements, governance, and financial overview during the period. LTCA continues its mission to support, represent, and empower the Turkish and Turkish‑speaking community in Luton and surrounding areas. 

## **2. Objectives and Activities** 

LTCA exists to: - Promote social, cultural, educational, and recreational activities. - Support community cohesion and integration within Luton. - Offer services and programmes that uplift women, families, young people, and older members of the community. 

In 2023, LTCA delivered a diverse programme of activities, with two major areas of focus: - **Education and empowerment programmes for women** - **The annual Luton Turkish Festival** 

## **3. Main Achievements in 2023** 

## **3.1 Education for Women** 

In 2023, LTCA expanded its support for women through a structured programme aimed at education, empowerment, and social inclusion. Key achievements included: - **English language classes (ESOL):** Delivered  weekly  sessions  to  support  women  with  limited  English  proficiency,  helping  improve confidence  and  daily  living  skills.  - **Digital  skills  workshops:** Introduced  classes  teaching  basic computer use, online safety, email communication, and accessing essential services. - **Health and wellbeing sessions:** Hosted seminars covering mental health awareness, healthy living, nutrition, and access  to  local  health  services.  - **Women’s  empowerment  workshops:** Provided  training  on communication, employment readiness, CV support, and access to further education. - **Cultural and social  activities:** Organised  women’s  group  gatherings  promoting  community  bonding,  reducing isolation, and strengthening cultural identity. 

These programmes had high engagement and contributed significantly to community cohesion and personal development. 

## **3.2 Luton Turkish Festival 2023** 

LTCA proudly organised the **Luton Turkish Festival** , one of the largest cultural events for the Turkishspeaking community in Bedfordshire. Highlights included: - A vibrant cultural programme featuring traditional music, folk dance groups, art exhibitions, and regional cuisine. - Participation from local businesses, cultural organisations, and volunteers. - Activities for children and families, including arts and crafts, sports, and cultural storytelling. - A dedicated awareness area promoting local services, health organisations, employment support agencies, and educational institutions. 

The  festival  successfully  showcased  Turkish  culture  to  the  wider  community,  strengthened  local partnerships, and brought together thousands of attendees in a celebration of heritage and unity. 

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## **4. Governance and Management** 

LTCA  is  governed  by  a  Board  of  Trustees  responsible  for  strategic  oversight,  safeguarding,  legal compliance, and financial stewardship. The Board met regularly throughout 2023 to review progress, approve budgets, and evaluate programme delivery. All trustees serve voluntarily. 

The organisation continues to maintain strong safeguarding processes, following national guidelines to protect vulnerable adults and children. Policies covering data protection, equality and diversity, and health and safety were reviewed and updated in 2023. 

## **5. Financial Review** 

LTCA maintained stable financial performance during the year. Income was generated through: - Grants and community funding - Donations and fundraising activities - Festival sponsorships and stallholder fees - Membership contributions and programme fees 

Expenditure focused on community programmes, festival delivery, operational costs, and educational activities. The charity ended 2023 in a positive financial position, allowing continued reinvestment in services. 

## **6. Plans for 2024** 

LTCA aims to build on the success of 2023 with: - Expanded women’s education programmes, including vocational  training  pathways.  -  Development  of  youth-focused  cultural  and  sports  activities.  - Strengthening partnerships with local councils, schools, and healthcare providers. - Planning an even larger and more inclusive Turkish Festival. 

## **7. Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities** 

The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their statutory duty to have due regard to Charity Commission guidance on public benefit. The Board is responsible for ensuring proper financial records, safeguarding assets, and ensuring compliance with governing documents. 

## **8. Approval of the Report** 

This Trustees’ Annual Report was approved by the Board of Trustees on _**_ /**_ _ / 2024. 

## **Signed:** Atilla Ustun 

Chair / Lead Trustee 

> Secretary / Trustee Ibrhaim gurbuz 

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