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2024-03-31-accounts

Trustees' Annual Report for the Year Ending 31st March 2024

Stepping Stones Community Organisation

75 Raymond Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 4DP

Introduction

The trustees of Stepping Stones Community Organisation are pleased to present the annual report for the year ending 31st March 2024. This year has been one of profound impact, strategic growth, and resilience, as we have expanded our programmes to meet the ever-evolving needs of our communities. Our work continues to focus on advancing education, training, social welfare, and well-being, with a commitment to supporting those most in need.

Through tailored interventions, strong partnerships, and evidence-based strategies, we have seen transformative changes in the lives of individuals and families. The following report reflects our journey, achievements, and the meaningful outcomes we have delivered over the past year.

Key Achievements in 2023-2024

Early Years & Nursery Development

Our nurseries have remained a beacon of early childhood education, providing high-quality care and learning in a nurturing environment. We have extended our reach to families from lowincome backgrounds, ensuring their children receive equal opportunities to thrive.

This year, we expanded our early years provision by increasing available spaces in response to growing demand. Our commitment to inclusive education has seen us implement specialised programmes for children with additional learning needs, ensuring individualised learning plans tailored to their development. We have also worked closely with families to provide holistic support, including parenting workshops, early language development sessions, and guidance on school transitions.

Case Study: Supporting Language Development

One of our nursery attendees, a child from a recently resettled refugee family, struggled with language barriers and social integration. Through our tailored bilingual learning support and interactive play therapy, this child not only developed confidence but was also able to transition smoothly into primary school, where they are now excelling. The support offered not only benefited the child but also equipped their parents with language skills to engage with educational settings effectively.

We have strengthened partnerships with local primary schools to develop transition strategies that prepare children for formal education. These partnerships have resulted in joint initiatives such as storytelling exchanges, transition days, and curriculum alignment discussions , ensuring children from our nursery arrive at school confident and ready to learn.

Community Education and Training

Education is at the heart of empowerment. This year, our education and training programmes have expanded, allowing individuals from all backgrounds to gain skills that will improve their employment prospects and social mobility.

Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme more than 200 learners completing different levels of language training. Recognising the need for tailored approaches, we introduced women-only ESOL sessions , enabling greater participation for women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds who may face additional barriers to education.

Case Study: Overcoming Barriers to Education

A single mother who had previously dropped out of education due to domestic abuse was supported through our Employment and Skills Training Programme . With tailored mentoring, childcare support, and skills training, she has now secured stable employment, providing a better future for her family. She is now completing a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and aims to work in local schools supporting bilingual children.

Health & Well-being Programmes

expanded our mental and physical health initiatives.

Case Study: Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

A young male from our community, who was struggling with severe anxiety and social isolation, was referred to our support group by a concerned teacher. Through our structured well-being and sports programme , he has developed coping mechanisms, built friendships, and is now advocating for youth mental health awareness in his school.

Family and Social Support Services

In response to rising economic hardship, we have reinforced our family and social support services , ensuring no family is left without assistance.

Case Study: Supporting Families in Crisis

instability and isolation. Our support team provided immediate relief through food distribution and housing support while integrating them into community programmes. Today, the family is engaged in local education and employment initiatives, with the children excelling in school.

Infrastructure and Capital Developments

improvements.

Case Study: Transforming Spaces for Community Growth

Our investment in infrastructure has already borne fruit. A local grassroots organisation, struggling to find a suitable meeting space, is now using our community hub to run vital social support groups, extending their reach and impact.

Looking Ahead

Building on the momentum of 2023-2024, our priorities for the coming year include:

Conclusion

Stepping Stones Community Organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening communities . Over the past year, we have demonstrated our

ability to adapt, innovate, and create lasting impact through education, advocacy, and direct support.

As we move forward, we will continue to foster inclusive growth , ensuring that every person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, partners, and volunteers, whose unwavering commitment has made this progress possible.

impact of Stepping Stones Community Organisation in 2023-2024.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Date: March 31, 2024

Stepping Stones Community Organisation

Annual Financial Report for the Year Ending March 31, 2024

Charity Name: Stepping Stones Community Organisation Charity Number: 1145346

Address: 75 Raymond Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 4DP

Financial Summary

Opening Balance

Total Income

Total Expenditure

Closing Balance

Income Breakdown

1. SLC Loan Income

2. Stoke City Council Grants

3. General Income

Expenditure Breakdown

1. Rent & Utilities (£83,400.00)

2. Insurance (£413.26)

4. Operational Expenses (£45,782.64)

5. Building Improvements (£25,000.00)

7. Professional Services (£18,942.42)

Conclusion

Stepping Stones Community Organisation has successfully managed its finances for the year 2023-24, ensuring sustainability while delivering impactful community programs. The financial reserves at the end of the year position us well for the upcoming period, allowing for continued investment in key initiatives.

This financial report has been prepared in accordance with the UK Charity Commission’s guidelines and is ready for submission as part of our Annual Return.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Date: March 31, 2024

Report lo the trusteesl members ol . Sleppkng SIL￿e5 Communrty Organi88lK)n On •¢counl for th• yélr ènded March 2024 Ch•rlty no Ilf any} 1145346 Independent examlnerfs report on the accounts S•ctlon A Indopend•nt examln•rf• Report Sel out on pages Rupe¢tlY• The chaws Ifuslees are reSpOn￿b￿ lor ihe prepafalKrf) ofthe ¥mints T respon51bllitle9 of charity's Irustees consider that an audit Is r)ot Tequired for Ihrs year under tru$l¢es and txamlnw section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (Ihe ch¥it￿5 Acll and that an Independenl examinatKn Is needéd. It ts my responsltxlty lo.. examintr Ihg accounts under seclion 145 of the ChaTitI'es Acl, to follow Ihe Frfc¢edures taid do￿ in Ihe general Direct￿n$ gNen by Charity Commtssion lundgr Secti￿ 145151(b} oflhe Charils Aci. and lo state ¥•t￿her F4rtkular matte15 have come to my attention. Basis of independent W examination was caffied ￿Th￿dence wth general Directions gNen oxamlnerf• statement ty the Charity Cornmission. An examination indudes a review of Ihe counting records kept by the Gharity and a comparison ol the xcounts presènled wrth those reo)rds. 118150 indudes constsjeralion of any unusual ilerns (N discbsures in the accounts, 8nd 8¢eking explanatrjns fr¢xn the trustees cor￿emIr￿a ary such matters. The proceduTrs undertaken do not Provide all the ev￿￿enCe Ihat thwld be required in an audit, and consequent no oprnion is given a5 lo vthelher the accounls present a'true and faiff view and the rep)rt is limited lo those matters set out in Ihe stalennt below. Independont In 0)nneCt￿n with rry exarninal￿n, no matter has lo my attention •xamlnèrfs statemont 1. which gNes me reB8cffiab￿ cwse to belreve that in, any rnalerial respect. th8 requiremenl$'. to keep acC￿ntsng rec4Jrds in accordarte %MiI) section 130 01 rh8 Charrt￿5 Act., and to E¥epare accounts whkth accoTd ￿th the &counling recNds and compty with the acLountrng requirements ol Ihe char￿￿5 Act have not been met. (v 2. 10 vknich. in my Opin￿￿, attenl4)n shoukj be drawn In order lo enable Proper understanding ol the *counts lo te reached. Signed: Datg: 3110112024 Nfjm•: si March 2024

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Stepping Stones Community Organisation

Annual Financial Report for the Year Ending March 31, 2024

Charity Name: Stepping Stones Community Organisation Charity Number: 1145346

Address: 75 Raymond Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 4DP

Financial Summary

Opening Balance

Total Income

Total Expenditure

3

Closing Balance

Income Breakdown

  1. SLC Loan Income

  2. Total SLC Loan Contributions: £292,828.00

2. Stoke City Council Grants

Expenditure Breakdown

1. Rent & Utilities (£83,400.00)

o Rent Breakdown:

o Utilities:

  - E.ON NEXT: £13,254.36

  - British Gas: £12,397.00

  1. Insurance (£413.26)

  2. General liability insurance for facilities and operations

4

3. Salaries & Wages (£102,328.98)

4. Operational Expenses (£45,782.64)

5. Building Improvements (£25,000.00)

7. Professional Services (£18,942.42)

5

Conclusion

2023-24, ensuring sustainability while delivering impactful community programs. The financial reserves at the end of the year position us well for the upcoming period, allowing for continued investment in key initiatives.

UK Charity Commission’s guidelines and is ready for submission as part of our Annual Return.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Date: March 31, 2024

6

Trustees' Annual Report for the Year Ending 31st March 2024

Stepping Stones Community Organisation

75 Raymond Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 4DP

Introduction

The trustees of Stepping Stones Community Organisation are pleased to present the annual report for the year ending 31st March 2024. This year has been one of profound impact, strategic growth, and resilience, as we have expanded our programmes to meet the ever-evolving needs of our communities. Our work continues to focus on advancing education, training, social welfare, and well-being, with a commitment to supporting those most in need.

Through tailored interventions, strong partnerships, and evidence-based strategies, we have seen transformative changes in the lives of individuals and families. The following report reflects our journey, achievements, and the meaningful outcomes we have delivered over the past year.

Key Achievements in 2023-2024

Early Years & Nursery Development

Our nurseries have remained a beacon of early childhood education, providing high-quality care and learning in a nurturing environment. We have extended our reach to families from lowincome backgrounds, ensuring their children receive equal opportunities to thrive.

This year, we expanded our early years provision by increasing available spaces in response to growing demand. Our commitment to inclusive education has seen us implement specialised programmes for children with additional learning needs, ensuring individualised learning plans tailored to their development. We have also worked closely with families to provide holistic support, including parenting workshops, early language development sessions, and guidance on school transitions.

Case Study: Supporting Language Development

One of our nursery attendees, a child from a recently resettled refugee family, struggled with language barriers and social integration. Through our tailored bilingual learning support and interactive play therapy, this child not only developed confidence but was also able to transition smoothly into primary school, where they are now excelling. The support offered not only benefited the child but also equipped their parents with language skills to engage with educational settings effectively.

We have strengthened partnerships with local primary schools to develop transition strategies that prepare children for formal education. These partnerships have resulted in joint initiatives such as storytelling exchanges, transition days, and curriculum alignment discussions , ensuring children from our nursery arrive at school confident and ready to learn.

Community Education and Training

Education is at the heart of empowerment. This year, our education and training programmes have expanded, allowing individuals from all backgrounds to gain skills that will improve their employment prospects and social mobility.

7

Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme more than 200 learners completing different levels of language training. Recognising the need for tailored approaches, we introduced women-only ESOL sessions , enabling greater participation for women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds who may face additional barriers to education.

Case Study: Overcoming Barriers to Education

A single mother who had previously dropped out of education due to domestic abuse was supported through our Employment and Skills Training Programme . With tailored mentoring, childcare support, and skills training, she has now secured stable employment, providing a better future for her family. She is now completing a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification and aims to work in local schools supporting bilingual children.

Health & Well-being Programmes

expanded our mental and physical health initiatives.

Case Study: Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

A young male from our community, who was struggling with severe anxiety and social isolation, was referred to our support group by a concerned teacher. Through our structured well-being and sports programme , he has developed coping mechanisms, built friendships, and is now advocating for youth mental health awareness in his school.

Family and Social Support Services

In response to rising economic hardship, we have reinforced our family and social support services , ensuring no family is left without assistance.

8

Case Study: Supporting Families in Crisis

instability and isolation. Our support team provided immediate relief through food distribution and housing support while integrating them into community programmes. Today, the family is engaged in local education and employment initiatives, with the children excelling in school.

Infrastructure and Capital Developments

improvements.

Case Study: Transforming Spaces for Community Growth

Our investment in infrastructure has already borne fruit. A local grassroots organisation, struggling to find a suitable meeting space, is now using our community hub to run vital social support groups, extending their reach and impact.

Looking Ahead

Building on the momentum of 2023-2024, our priorities for the coming year include:

Conclusion

Stepping Stones Community Organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening communities . Over the past year, we have demonstrated our ability to adapt, innovate, and create lasting impact through education, advocacy, and direct support.

As we move forward, we will continue to foster inclusive growth , ensuring that every person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. We extend our heartfelt gratitude

9

to our dedicated team, partners, and volunteers, whose unwavering commitment has made this progress possible.

impact of Stepping Stones Community Organisation in 2023-2024.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Date: March 31, 2024

10