A PALETTE OF opportunities ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2024
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TRUSTEES:
B. Friedrich
E. Frankel
S. Landau SECRETARY: S. Landau
REGISTERED OFFICE:
59 Bethune Road London N16 5EE
CHARITY NUMBER:
1145805
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER:
De Claron Ltd 3A The Vale London NW11 8SB
BANKERS:
HSBC 312 Seven Sisters Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 2AW
CHARITY INFORMATION
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About Us
At Drama Expressions, we are dedicated to providing a voice to girls and women who have been silenced by trauma or marginalized to the point where they feel their voices don’t matter. These are individuals who have grown up in adverse childhood circumstances, often grappling with attachment or other socio-emotional concerns. Through our work, we engage children and young women with the aim of restoring their self-confidence and addressing the trauma they carry, using the transformative power of creative play.
We firmly believe that the arts, particularly drama, offer a unique and essential platform for these girls and women to express themselves in ways that words alone cannot encompass. Our mission is to empower them to tell their stories, heal, and rediscover their voices within a nurturing and supportive environment.
By leveraging drama and creative expression, we foster a safe space where these individuals can explore their emotions, navigate the complexities of their past experiences, and ultimately find the strength to transform their lives.
Our approach to providing drama therapy and creative education defies conventional norms that suggest limited possibilities for holistic support. We challenge the notion that budgets are too restrictive and that drama therapists are merely facilitators, recognizing their invaluable role in empowering individuals. We believe in investing in our drama therapists as essential professionals capable of fostering personal growth and emotional well-being.
Across the community centers we partner with, we’re demonstrating that transformative change is achievable, reaching over 650 participants annually and proving that better outcomes are indeed possible in mental health support and creative expression.
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OUR Mission Give young people a safe exciting place to go to have fun, build their social networks and support their personal development; enabling young people to better face the challenges of life.
OUR vision A future where young women are empowered through confidence, courage and kindness, utilising inclusive opportunities and creative expressions to thrive and unlock inherent values and ensuring their voice is heard.
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our approach
We utilize a holistic and person-centered model to provide comprehensive support to marginalized young women. Through drama therapy sessions, skills workshops, and creative expression programs, we create a safe and inclusive space for participants to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Additionally, we offer practical assistance, such as access to food provisions and clothing, to address immediate needs and ensure that individuals feel supported in achieving their goals. Grounded in empathy and empowerment, our model emphasizes the unique strengths and aspirations of each beneficiary, fostering personal growth, community connection, and a sense of belonging.
OUR VALUES
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Empowerment: Recognising and encouraging personal achievements.
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Inclusivity: Creating inclusive spaces where all voices are heard and valued.
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Creativity: Embracing personal expression, healing, and growth.
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Resilience: Equipping participants with tools to overcome challenges and emerge stronger.
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Community: Strengthening communities by supporting young people to be empowered, active, responsible citizens.
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Empathy: Approaching our work with empathy and understanding.
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Accountability: Upholding transparency, integrity, and ethical conduct.
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Continuous Learning: Valuing ongoing reflection, feedback, and improvement.
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Message of the chair
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible journey we have embarked on at Drama Expressions. 2024 has been a year of both unprecedented challenges and remarkable triumphs. In the face of the new cost-of-living crisis, our commitment to supporting vulnerable young women has been tested like never before. Yet, we have risen to the occasion, embracing the challenge with resilience, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to our mission.
Drama Expressions has been agile, innovative, and responsive to the needs of our girls, in the communities which we work. We remain more committed than ever to helping girls feel confident, happy and safe and be a generation of leaders.
The cost-of-living crisis has doubled the demand for our services, and we have met this need head-on, expanding our reach and deepening our impact. We have provided practical support, such as access to food provisions and essential resources, ensuring that our participants’ immediate needs are met. At the same time, we have continued to foster personal growth and community connection through our holistic and person-centered approach.
We couldn’t have done this without the incredible support of our funding partners:
A huge thank you to Sport England for funding the Temper to Tempo project, which brought 62 young people together and led to two unforgettable public dance performances. We’re also incredibly grateful to The Clothworkers Foundation, whose generosity made our brand-new Threads & Seams Studio possible. And a heartfelt thank you to The Childhood Trust for your belief in our work through the Big Give campaign since 2016, helping us build a thriving community of supporters. Your commitment truly makes a difference.
As we move forward, I am inspired by the resilience and courage of the young women we serve and the dedication of our team and supporters. Together, we are not just addressing the immediate crises but also laying down brushstrokes for a brighter, more inclusive future. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support is the palette that makes our work possible, and with it, we will continue to create masterpieces of empowerment and change.
S Friedman
PROJECTS
Wor es eas a i Ea = : _ 7 nc, Aee Ee = i i a® _ “Before Drama Expressions, I felt like I was living one big act. On the outside, I pretended everything was fine, but on the inside, anxiety was tearing me apart. Panic attacks were a daily “ ordeal. I knew I needed a change. Now, I've learned how to
“Before Drama Expressions, I felt like I was living one big act. On the outside, I pretended everything was fine, but on the inside, anxiety was tearing me apart. Panic attacks were a daily ordeal. I knew I needed a change. Now, I've learned how to use drama to connect with my emotions before they become overwhelming.”
Estelle, 10
from outcast to star of cast
is a transformative drama program designed for multiply challenged young women in London, including those referred during the current cost-of-living crisis. Running weekly, the program consists of drama therapy sessions that incorporate various performance types, culminating in a final public showcase where participants demonstrate their skills and personal growth. The initiative aims to boost confidence, foster self-expression, and build a supportive community, with the added element of a mobile clothing bank to address participants’ physical needs alongside their emotional well-being.
TALENT EXPRESS Performance Project is
an annual showcase that empowers young women aged by providing a platform to display their creative talents. Participants engage in every aspect of the production, from writing scripts and sewing costumes to creating backdrops and performing on stage. This user-led project culminates in a community performance that highlights their teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, offering them a chance to shine and build self-esteem while fostering a sense of accomplishment and community connection.
beat club is a vibrant weekly program for underprivileged children aged 8-16, offering a fun-filled Saturday afternoon of engaging activities, games, and discussions. Each age group is led by a dedicated volunteer leader who fosters a positive and inclusive environment. The club provides light refreshments and creates a
welcoming space where children can socialize, develop new skills, and enjoy themselves, ensuring they have equal opportunities to experience joy and connection.
threads & seams; weaving dreams
The Threads & Seams project is a sewing studio and free user-led laundrette service for clothing repairs and alterations, for girls facing economic hardship. We offer workshops on skills like sewing, clothing care, and body positivity, helping participants take control of their wardrobes and feel more confident.
The impact: 62 young women participated in workshops, learning valuable alteration skills. In the first few months alone, we repaired over 200 items of clothing, ensuring that these young women have well-fitting, refreshed garments.
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PROJECTS - ” “I learned to stand tall and speak with a voice that feels strong and unstoppable” Deborah, 11
Respite 4 U Camp is a bi-annual
sleepaway camp in the British countryside for marginalized children from inner-city areas. Held during the summer and winter, the
camp provides a unique opportunity for these children to relax, have fun, and enjoy nutritious meals, which are not always available in their daily lives. Camp activities include trips to waterparks, amusement parks, snow tubing, and nature hikes, alongside on-site events like ice cream parties, sports competitions, and educational
evening programs. This program aims to offer a nurturing and adventurous environment, helping children create lasting memories and fostering personal growth.
CONFIDENCE CODE is a transformative
eekly initiative designed for marginalized young women aged 11-16. Through a series of structured skills-building workshops, participants focus on enhancing communication, self-esteem, and resilience.
By providing a safe and supportive environment, the project empowers these young women to engage in activities that foster personal growth and improve their ability to navigate life’s challenges. Through Confidence Code, young women gain essential tools for self-recognition and empowerment, setting the foundation for a brighter, more confident future.
“Respite4U was the first time I felt the freedom to laugh, explore, and just be a kid without any worries
weighing me down.” “
Sarah, 15
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our impact this year
In 2024, Drama Expressions made a profound impact on the lives of marginalized young women, empowering them through creative expression and holistic support. This year, we reached over 1,200 participants in London, doubling our each in response to the cost-of-living crisis. Our flagship project, “From Outcast to Star of Cast,” has provided a safe and nurturing space for young women to reclaim their voices and navigate personal challenges.
Additionally, we introduced Cast-Off Clothing, a mobile clothing bank service. To date we have provided over 65 children with full sets of winter warm clothing and outerwear. By improving access to warm decent clothing for marginalised children, we are addressing fundamental psychological and physical needs, ensuring they are confident not only on stage but at every stage of life.
Through drama therapy, skills workshops, and creative platforms, together we have made 2025 a year of remarkable transformations, with participants building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
” “Now I have a new hat and coat just like my friends, and I feel so snug and safe in the winter chill.” Esther, 12
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our impact this year
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2 user-led showcase Distributed over 550 food
performances packages to support families
during the cost-of-living crisis.
Hosted 3 community Held a summer and winter camp
engagement events for over 285 young women
Offered 38 skills
32 new mentoring development workshops
arrangements arranged
200 children explored the great
Conducted 40 drama
outdoors and broadened their
therapy sessions
knowledge
Volunteer Hours: 7,330 hours contributed
by volunteers, supporting various 680 participants engaged in our
programs and initiatives. activities and projects.
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what works well
At Drama Expressions, our creative, community-focused approach has proven highly effective in providing relevant support to our users. Integrating drama therapy with practical assistance, we address both the emotional and physical needs of marginalized young women. This comprehensive support system empowers participants to navigate personal challenges and build resilience. The power of creative expression through drama and the arts is a cornerstone of our approach.
By offering a safe space for participants to explore their emotions and tell their stories, we facilitate healing and personal growth. Programs like the Outcast Project showcase the effectiveness of this method, as young women gain confidence and develop new skills through performance and leadership opportunities.
Community engagement and inclusion are also vital to our success. By creating strong, supportive networks and offering platforms for participants to share their experiences, we foster a sense of belonging and empowerment. SummitQuest summer programme and community events further strengthen these connections, providing memorable experiences that promote unity and support. Our commitment to continuous learning and adaptation ensures that we remain responsive to the evolving needs of our beneficiaries. Regular evaluations and feedback from participants guide our program adjustments, enhancing our impact and effectiveness. This dedication to reflection and improvement allows us to maintain a high standard of support, ensuring that we meet the needs of the young women we serve and help them thrive.
Sarah speaks
“For a long time, I struggled with low self-esteem and anxiety, often feeling alone and misunderstood. Things got even harder during the cost-of-living crisis, which put a lot of financial pressure on my family and made it tough for me to focus on anything positive. When I first joined the “From Outcast to Star of Cast” project, I was unsure and withdrawn, not knowing how drama therapy could help me.
“But everything changed during the weekly drama therapy sessions. The safe and supportive space allowed me to explore my feelings and express myself in new ways. Through activities like roleplaying and improvisation, I began to build confidence and resilience. The turning point for me was performing in the Talent Express show, where I took on a lead role. Standing on stage in front of an audience, supported by my peers, was a truly lifechanging experience.
“Drama Expressions didn’t just help me on stage. The extra support, like food parcels and skills workshops, helped stabilize my family’s situation and gave me tools for a better future. Today, I’m more confident, involved in my community, and planning to pursue a career in performing arts. This program really transformed my life, helping me find my voice and reach my potential.”
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Plans for 2025
Expanding ‘| I, enhancing | 1, New initiatives i! , Our Reach programs x 1} o . y ‘ Partner with other local Improve therapy sessions with Introduce a mobile food bank organizations to support 40 new techniques and support and the “Artful Journeys” additional young women and for our therapists to help program, blending creative provide access to life-changing participants heal and grow. expression with life skills A, Wf 1, ff programs. workshops.
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community | 1, funding
engagement / '
. 1y ‘3
Host family nights, a community Diversify funding through
performance event, and funding partnerships, and
community art projects exhibition introduce local funding
to build a supportive network for campaign to ensure long-term
our participants. support for our programs.
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REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
Recruitment and appointment of new trustees
It is not currently the intention of the trustees of the charity to appoint new trustees. Should this situation change in the future, the trustees will apply suitable recruitment and training procedures.
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024. The trustees have adopted the provisions of 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 2019).
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
The main objectives of the charity is that of:
(a)The provision of facilities for recreation and leisure time occupation for chidren and young people who are in need of such provision becauseof their age, infirmity, poverty, or social and economic circumstances and with the object of improving their condition and quality of life.
(b)The promotion of any other exclusively charitable objects and purposes such as the trustees see fit, provided that they are regarded as charitable by the law of England and Wales.
Significant activities
The financial results of the Company’s activities for the period ended 31 December 2024 are fully reflected in the attached financial statements together with the notes thereon. The trustees are satisfied with the results and activities of the company for the period and do not anticipate any significant changes in the forthcoming year.
Public benefit
The trustees have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the aims and objectives and in planning the charity’s future activities. The aims of the charity for the public benefit are detailed in the Objectives and Activities section of the report.
ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE
Charitable activities
The charity received donations that amounted to £ 276,129 and spent £ 271,040 on charitable activities. Restricted funds were spent on specific projects including Confidence Code, BEAT Club, Talent Express, and RunAbout.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Reserves policy
The trustees have agreed that the charity will maintain reserves equivalent to at least 3 months of core running costs. This level of reserves is intended to provide financial stability, ensuring that the charity can continue its essential operations in the event of unexpected funding shortfalls or unforeseen expenses. The reserves policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains appropriate for the charity’s needs and circumstances.
FUTURE PLANS
The charity plans to continue its activities subject to satisfactory incoming resources.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
The charity is controlled by its governing document, its memorandum and articles of association, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S UNQUALIFIED REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF DRAMA EXPRESSIONS FOR CHILDREN
Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees of Drama Expressions For Children
I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2024,
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner
The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under the Charities Act 2023 (the 2023 Act)) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to
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examine the accounts (under the 2022 Act);
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to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under the
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2022 Act); and
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to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner’s report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts.
Independent examiner’s statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
- (1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of preparation of financial statements
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified to include the revaluation of land and building with the exception of investments which are included at market value. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP),“Accounting and Reporting by Charities” published in Jan 2021.
Charity status
The charity is an unincorporated association. The members of the charity are the trustees named on page 2.
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 charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.
Incoming resources
All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is legally entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy.
Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deed of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Resources expended
All expenditure is accounted for on a cash basis and has been included under expense categories that aggregate all costs for allocation to activities. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular activities they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of the resoruces.
Management and administration costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the charity and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.
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to keep accounting records in accordance with the 2022 Act; and
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accounting or to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the
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requirements of the 2022 Act have not been met;
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Going Concern
The accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees consider the charity will continue to operate for a period of at least twelve months from the date of the approval of these accounts.
NET INCOMING RESOURCES
During the year no trustees received any remuneration, benefits in kind or reimbursement of expenses.
De Claron Ltd 3a The Vale London NW11 8SB 25 April 2025
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STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| INCOMING RESOURCES Grants Fundraising Campaign Camp Fees Gift Aid reclaimed TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES Charitable Programs Summer Escape SummitQuest Talent Express Talent Show Tempo Threads & Seams Activity Materials Admission Fees Awards Scored Catering Staf Cleaning Cost Confidence Code Equipment Hire Grocery & Bills Staff Training Transport & Trips Volunteer Costs Wages |
£ Restricted Funds 74,149.00 |
y/e 31.12.2024 £ £ Unrestricted Funds Total Funds 154,131.72 228,280.72 18,748.41 18,748.41 29,100.00 29,100.00 - - 201,980.13 276,129.13 276,129.13 - - 94,927.23 145,739.88 14,193.23 14,193.23 - - 13,422.86 5,299.98 7,908.03 7,908.03 - - 4,343.50 4,343.50 8,580.00 8,580.00 4,065.00 4,065.00 11,270.78 11,270.78 - - 27,847.91 27,847.91 149.00 149.00 19,368.92 19,368.92 4,115.39 4,115.39 3,120.07 3,620.07 |
£ Restricted Funds 34,120.00 |
y/e 31.12.2023 £ £ Unrestricted Funds Total Funds 207,850.75 241,970.75 49,806.79 49,806.79 13,125.00 13,125.00 32.50 32.50 270,815.04 304,935.04 304,935.04 124,188.50 142,188.50 5,352.30 10,352.30 6,825.80 6,825.80 6,980.03 6,980.03 9,883.30 9,883.30 7,993.62 7,993.62 3,415.00 3,415.00 7,846.00 7,846.00 1,145.00 1,145.00 61,655.71 61,655.71 2,500.00 2,500.00 26,105.46 26,105.46 1,099.50 1,099.50 - 17,579.60 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74,149.00 - 50,812.65 - 13,422.86 5,299.98 500.00 |
34,120.00 18,000.00 5,000.00 17,579.60 |
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| y/e 31.12.2024 | y/e 31.12.2023 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Restricted Funds | Unrestricted Funds | Total Funds | Restricted Funds | Unrestricted Funds | Total Funds | |
| Resources expended on administrating | ||||||
| Administration & Account | 819.84 | 819.84 | 5,183.20 | 5,183.20 | ||
| Advertising & Printing | - | 115.00 | 115.00 | - | 315.00 | 315.00 |
| Bank Charges & Interest | 106.00 | 106.00 | 152.20 | 152.20 | ||
| Insurance | - | - | 1,000.00 | 1,000.00 | ||
| Telephone | 74.64 | 74.64 | 70.43 | 70.43 | ||
| 70,035.49 | 201,004.54 | 271,040.03 | 40,579.60 | 271,711.05 | 312,290.65 | |
| TOTAL OUTGOING | 271,040.03 | 312,290.65 | ||||
| NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS FOR THE YEAR | 5,089.10 | (7,355.61) | ||||
| FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 11,351.25 | 18,706.86 | ||||
| TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 16,440.35 | 11,351.25 | ||||
| BALANCE SHEET | y/e 31.12.2024 | y/e 31.12.2023 | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||||||
| TRADE DEBTORS | - | |||||
| CASH IN HAND & BANK | 16,440.35 | 11,351.25 | ||||
| 4,811.25 | ||||||
| 6,540.00 | ||||||
| CURRENT LIABILITIES | 16,440.35 | 11,351.25 | ||||
| TRADE CREDITORS | - | - | ||||
| NET ASSETS | 16,440.35 | 11,351.25 | ||||
| FUND ACCOUNT | 16,440.35 | 11,351.25 |
(9111 DRAMA EXPRESSIONS