## **Annual** Report Year ended 31st March, 2026 Life Project (Bath) Building a world where people with learning disabilities belong & flourish ## **Information** Charity Name: The Life Project (Bath) Charity Registration Number: 1142459 Company Registration Number: 07573284 ## Registered office & Operational Address: The Old Acorn Barn Englishcombe Bath BA2 9DU ## Board of Trustees Ben Stokes (Chair) (Re-appointed 20th October, 2024) Clive Brooks (Company Secretary) (Re-appointed 20th October, 2024) Kay Labate (Appointed 29th October, 2023) Pip Phillips (Appointed 29th October, 2023) Richard Penwell (Appointed 29th October, 2023) Rob Trickey (Re-appointed 10th November, 2025) ## Senior Management Team Kenny Nelson, Director (from 1st January, 2026) Tom Peryer Interim Chief Executive (until 31st December, 2025) Sarah Carney, Deputy Director (from 1st January, 2026) ## Independent Examiner: Colin Goater, 102 Freeview Road, Bath, BA2 1DZ ## Banks: The Co-operative Bank Plc, PO Box 250, Skelmersdale, WN8 6WT Triodos Bank UK Ltd, Deanery Road, Bristol, BS1 5AS 02 ## 2. **Structure, Governance & Management** ## 2.1. Governing Document The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. The company was incorporated on 22 March 2011. The company was registered as a charity on 17 June 2011. ## 2.2 Recruitment and Appointment of Board of Trustees The Directors of the company are also charity Trustees for the purposes of charity law. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, Trustees are appointed by the Charity’s members, normally at the Annual General Meeting. Trustees are appointed without a time limit to their term of office but one third of Trustees must resign each year. The Trustees to retire by rotation shall be those who have been longest in office since their last appointment. Trustees who resign may be re-appointed at the next Annual General Meeting. The Board must have a minimum of three Trustees but there is no limit to the number of Trustees it may have. The Board of Trustees seeks to ensure that the needs of people with learning disabilities are appropriately reflected through the diversity of the Trustee body. Due to the nature of learning disabilities this representation typically comes through parent carers sitting on the board; during the 2025/26 year, two of the six Trustees were parent carers of our own makers (the term we use to describe our clients). A further two trustees have direct personal or professional experience of young people and adults learning difficulties. The Board represents a broad mix of skills and experience. In an effort to maintain this broad skill mix, Trustees are requested to provide a list of their skills (and update it each year). The Board continues to seek a broad range of skills, experience and perspectives to support the effective governance of the Charity and ensure that the needs of people with learning disabilities and their families remain central to decision-making. **03** ## 2.3 Trustee Induction and Training Induction is seen as a key element in retaining and supporting Trustees. New Trustees are invited to visit Life Project activities, sessions and events to become familiar with the work of the Charity. All Trustees are encouraged to make a project visit at least once per calendar year. New Trustees are provided with a Trustee Induction Checklist, which includes information on: - Assigning a mentor - Training and Compliance - IT and Login Information - Essential Information and Documents (inc. Memorandum and Articles, Obligations of Trustees, Current Financial Position & latest published accounts, Policies, Future plans and objectives). The Life Project (Bath) is a member of the local third sector network 3SG and access to the training, support and guidance is available to Trustees. ## 2.4 Risk Management The Board of Trustees takes seriously the potential risks to which the Charity is exposed. During the year Trustees continued to review the Charity's risk register, paying particular attention to safeguarding, staffing, financial sustainability, transport provision and regulatory compliance. Work has also continued to strengthen organisational systems and reporting processes, including the implementation of the Plinth CRM platform across all our services. These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of the Charity. ## 2.5 Organisational Structure The Board of Trustees meets at least six times per year and, in addition, meets for a longer period at an annual Away Day. Trustees are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the Charity. A scheme of delegation is in place, with day-to-day responsibility for the operation of the Charity resting with the Interim Chief Executive (April to December 2025), and from 1 January 2026 with the Director and Deputy Director. Together with the Chair of Trustees, they met regularly throughout the year to review operational matters, discuss emerging opportunities and challenges, and support effective communication between management and trustees. Other Trustees were also consulted as appropriate, particularly where they held lead responsibility for specific areas of the Charity's work. The Board is supported by two Committees: the Strategic Finance Committee and the Resources Committee, both of which report to the Board and operate under agreed terms of reference. **04** ## 3. **Objectives, Vision & Public Benefit** ## 3.1. Objectives Our Charity's objectives are as set out in the objects contained within the Company's Memorandum and Articles of Association: _are for the public benefit to promote and protect the health and well-being of persons with learning difficulties or other mental or physical disabilities in Bath and in such other parts of the United Kingdom as the Trustees may from time to time think fit according to Christian principles particularly but not exclusively by the provision of accommodation and other facilities to enable them to live within communities and to fulfil their individual potential._ ## 3.2. Vision & Mission Our Vision _is for an inclusive world in which people with learning disabilities know they belong._ Our Mission _is to create and model supportive community for people with learning disabilities, their families, and carers._ The Life Project seeks to put this vision into practice through creative activities, friendship, community participation, Christian fellowship and practical support. We believe that every person has value and gifts to contribute, and we seek to create environments where people can grow in confidence, develop meaningful relationships and participate fully in the life of their community. ## 3.3. Public Benefit The Trustees have had due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit when exercising their responsibilities throughout the year. Through Day Services, Springs Fellowship, social activities and community engagement, the Life Project seeks to enhance the lives of adults with learning disabilities and support their participation within community life. The Charity also recognises the significant benefit its activities provide to families and carers, helping reduce isolation and creating opportunities for friendship, support and belonging. **05** ## 4. **Activity Reports** Looking back on 2025/26, we are encouraged by the many ways in which the Life Project has continued to grow and develop. Whilst our core purpose remains unchanged, the year has seen new opportunities emerge, existing activities strengthen and important foundations laid for the future. Across Day Services, Springs Fellowship, community events and organisational development, our focus has remained on creating places where people with learning disabilities know they belong. ## 4.1. **Day Services** Day Services continued to run across three days each week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays) at the Barn and allotment, providing opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to learn new skills, build friendships and take part in a wide range of creative and practical activities. During the year, Makers took part in art, woodwork, cookery, music, drama and gardening activities, with themes helping to shape much of what we did together. During the spring term, Makers explored the theme "Love Is...", inspired by 1 Corinthians 13, considering what love looks like in our friendships, families, churches and communities. The year saw continued opportunities for Makers to develop existing skills, try new things and work together. Whether through preparing meals, creating artwork, making things in the workshop, performing in front of others or working at the allotment, Makers continued to play an active role in the life of the Barn and the wider Life Project. Partnerships also continued to develop during the year. Makers enjoyed opportunities to work alongside students from Kingswood School through shared gardening and performance activities. Work at the allotment also continued, with early plans developed for a sensory garden that will create new opportunities for people to enjoy and engage with the space. In March 2026, the Life Project began working in partnership with Bath Community Transport. As well as providing a more sustainable transport arrangement, this has reduced the demands previously placed on staff around transport and created more time at the end of the day for communication, planning and team debriefs. This has helped strengthen communication across the staff team and improve continuity of support for Makers. The Trustees remain grateful to the staff, volunteers and supporters who make Day Services possible and to the Makers who continue to bring enthusiasm, encouragement and friendship to the life of the Barn and allotment. **07** ## 4.2. **Springs** Springs continued to meet fortnightly throughout the year, bringing together adults with learning disabilities, family members, volunteers and supporters for worship, friendship and community. We explored a number of themes designed to help people engage with faith in accessible and meaningful ways. Early in the year, Springs reflected on God's creation and the many blessings we enjoy, before moving into themes of seeds, growth and new life. Later in the year, Springs explored the person of Jesus and what it means to follow him in everyday life. These themes were explored through worship, prayer, drama, crafts, discussion and shared activities, helping people engage with faith in a variety of ways. As well as times of worship and learning, Springs continued to be a place where friendships were strengthened and community was built. Whether sharing food together, celebrating birthdays, supporting one another in prayer or simply enjoying each other's company, Springs provides a welcoming space where people can come together and belong. Attendance remained encouraging throughout the year and it was a pleasure to welcome new members. Springs continues to play an important role in the wider life of the Life Project, bringing together people from across the community and creating opportunities for friendship, faith and mutual support. The Trustees remain grateful to the volunteers who give their time so generously and whose faithfulness, hospitality and encouragement help make Springs possible. **08** ## 4.3. **Drama Workshop** In March 2026, the Life Project launched a new Drama Workshop for adults with learning disabilities. This grew out of a number of successful musical theatre sessions held previously and was developed in response to an identified need for opportunities specifically aimed at adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities. Through drama, music and performance, the drama workshop seeks to provide opportunities for creativity, confidence building, friendship and personal development. The drama workshop reflects the Life Project's desire to reach those who can sometimes find themselves falling between existing services and support networks. As well as developing performance skills, the sessions aim to reduce social isolation, strengthen community and create opportunities for people to express themselves in new ways. Although only operating during the final month of the reporting year as a pilot project, the initial response from participants and families has been encouraging. The Trustees are grateful to Jieun Lee for her vision and commitment in developing the project and look forward to reviewing its progress during the coming year. **09** ## 4.4. **Community Life** Community life continues to be an important part of the Life Project. Alongside our regular activities, opportunities throughout the year brought together Makers, families, volunteers, trustees, supporters and friends of the charity, helping strengthen the relationships that sit at the heart of our community. Events such as the Curry Evening and Carol Service provided opportunities to celebrate together and connect with people from across the wider Life Project family. These occasions continue to play an important role in bringing together those involved in different areas of the charity's work and creating opportunities for new friendships to develop. During the year, the Life Project also held a Prayer Weekend, creating space to pray together for the charity, its members and the wider community. The weekend provided an opportunity to reflect on God's faithfulness, give thanks for all that has been achieved and pray for wisdom and guidance for the future. Whilst differing in purpose and format, these gatherings all contribute to the wider sense of community that makes the Life Project more than simply a collection of activities and services. They provide opportunities for people to build relationships, share life together and strengthen the connections that support the charity's work throughout the year. **10** ## 5. **Financial Report** This section provides an overview of the Life Project's financial performance during the year, together with the Trustees' approach to managing the charity's resources and ensuring its long-term sustainability. ## INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE LIFE PROJECT (BATH) I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31st March, 2026. ## Responsibilities and basis of report As the charity’s trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act. ## Independent examiner’s statement I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe: - accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or - the accounts do not accord with those records; or - the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities [applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)]. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Address: 102 Freeview Road, Bath BA2 1DZ **12** ## STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 All of the charity’s operations are classed as continuing. The notes on pages 14 to 19 form part of these accounts. See Note 2 for fund accounting comparative figures. **13** ## BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st MARCH, 2026 The Trustees are satisfied that the company is entitled to exemption from the provisions of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act) relating to the audit of the financial statements for the year by virtue of section 477, and that no member or members have requested an audit pursuant to section 476 of the Act. The Trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for: (i) ensuring that the company keeps adequate accounting records which comply with section 386 of the Act, and (ii) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its profit or loss for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of section 393, and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Act relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the company. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions for small companies under Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006. These accounts have been delivered in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies’ regime. Approved by the Trustees on 15th June 2026 and signed on their behalf by Name: Ben Stokes Date: 15th June 2026 COMPANY NO. 07573284 The notes on pages 15 to 19 form part of these accounts. **14** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 ## _Note 1: Accounting Policies_ ## _Basis of preparation_ 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 (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006. Life Project (Bath) meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s). ## _Preparation of the accounts on a going concern basis_ The trustees have considered the immediate future of the charity for the next 12 to 18 months and consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern. ## _Income recognition_ All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of the income receivable can be measured reliably. Income is deferred only when the charity has to fulfil conditions before becoming entitled to it or where the donor has specified that the income is to be expended in a future period. Grants and donations are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities in the year in which they are receivable and are allocated to the appropriate fund. Investment income is included when receivable. ## _Expenditure recognition and irrecoverable VAT_ Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expenditure is accounted for on an accrual basis in the year in which the expenditure is incurred. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. As the charity has only one activity, all costs are allocated against the charitable activity. They include attributable VAT which cannot be recovered. ## _Fund accounting_ Funds held by the charity are: _Unrestricted general funds_ – these are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the Trustees. _Restricted funds_ – these are funds that can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. **15** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 (continued) Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the accounts. _Note 2: Prior Year Comparatives_ **16** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 (continued) ## _Note 3: Net Income/(Expenditure) for the year_ |_e/(Expenditure) for the year_||| |---|---|---| |This is stated after charging:|2026|2025| |Independent examiner’s remuneration|£250|£250| _Note 4: Staff Costs and Related Party Transactions_ Note None of the Trustees receive fees or reimbursed expenses in respect of their trusteeship. The value of waived expenses were not considered significant. There are no other related party transactions that require disclosure in the accounts. The aggregate value of donations received from Trustees and related parties was £360. (2025 - £1,218). The Trustees considers its key management personnel is the Chief Executive who received total employment benefits of £26,779. The charity also employed an interim CEO to cover a transition from one post-holder to another, at an additional cost of £8264. No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000. Once a full complement of staff was in place, the average number of persons employed as full-time or full-time equivalents by the charity is detailed below. ||2026|2025| |---|---|---| |Management|1.1|1.0| |Carers/other|1.8|1.6| |Total|2.9|2.6| The average headcount during the year across all activities was 9.0 (2024 – 7.3, Day Services only). **17** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 (continued) _Note 5: Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year_ _Note 6: Restricted Funds_ _Purpose of Funds:_ Springs - Springs caters for adults with learning disabilities which meets twice a month in the evening, supported by volunteers. Barn Activities and Allotment – Grant to improve and develop the allotment. **18** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 2026 (continued) ## _Note 7: Unrestricted Funds_ _Note 8: Analysis of Net Assets between Funds_ _Note 9: Bank Balances 31 March 2026_ **19** ## 6. **People** People are at the heart of the Life Project. This section celebrates the staff, volunteers, Trustees, Makers and supporters whose commitment shapes our community every day. ## 6.1. Staff The Trustees would like to express their sincere thanks to every member of staff for their commitment, care and professionalism throughout the year. Their dedication, compassion and willingness to go the extra mile continue to make a significant difference to the lives of the people we support. On 1st January 2026, Kenny Nelson was appointed as Director of the Life Project and Sarah Carney was appointed as Deputy Director. Since their appointments, Sarah has taken particular responsibility for the oversight and development of Day Services, while Kenny has led the wider development of the charity, strengthening relationships with churches, supporters and partner organisations. The Trustees are grateful for the commitment of the whole staff team, whose skills, enthusiasm and teamwork continue to enable the Life Project to fulfil its vision. ## 6.2 Volunteers The Life Project continues to benefit from the dedication of a large number of volunteers who support Day Services, Springs, community events, fundraising and governance. Whether giving their time each week or helping at particular events, volunteers make an invaluable contribution to the life of the charity. The Trustees are deeply grateful for their generosity, encouragement and faithful service. ## 6.3 Trustees & Governance The Trustees are grateful for the commitment, wisdom and support of all those who have served on the Board throughout the year. Their oversight and stewardship continue to play an important role in ensuring that the Life Project remains faithful to its vision, values and charitable purposes. The Board continued to meet regularly throughout the year to oversee the governance of the charity, monitor its financial position, review risk, and support the strategic direction of the Life Project. Trustees remain committed to ensuring that the charity is well governed and well placed to fulfil its charitable objectives in the years ahead. ## 6.4 In Memoriam The Trustees record with sadness the death of Josephine Forsey on 28th August 2025. Josephine was a valued and much-loved member of the Life Project community for many years. She was known to Makers, staff, volunteers and supporters alike and brought warmth, friendship and her own unique presence to the life of the charity. Her loss has been felt deeply by all who knew her and our thoughts and prayers remain with her family and friends. **21** ## **Thank You** Thank you to our Makers, families, volunteers, staff, Trustees, supporters, churches and partner organisations whose encouragement, generosity and commitment continue to help us build a world where people with learning disabilities belong & flourish. 07708 217901 Old Acorn Barn, Englishcombe, Bath, BA2 9DU lifeprojectbath.org.uk Registered charity: 1142459 Company no: 07573284