2024-10-31-accounts - Centrepeace

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CentrePeace Report 2023 -

24

Page 2. Foreword

Page 3. The story of our project this year Page 3. The power of dedicated leadership and support Page 3. Community Flourishing and Sustainable Growth Page 4. Enhancing Skills and Environmental Awareness Page 5. Nurturing Holistic Well-being Page 5. Providing Essential Community Support Page 5. CentrePeace Counselling Service: Impact Update Page 6. Fostering Community Spirit and Celebration Page 6. Valuing Our Volunteers
Page 6. Comprehensive Support and Community Outreach Page 7. Fostering Development and Partnerships
Page 8. How we actively engage with the community beyond our physical premises
Page 8. Deepening Community Engagement and Responsive Services Page 9. Empowering Through Participation and Feedback

Page 9. Acknowledging Our Pillars of Support Page 9. The Transformative Impact of CentrePeace Page 10. Addressing Deep-Seated Deprivation and Vulnerability Page 10. Key Learnings: A Community-Led Approach to Impact Page 11. Adapting and Evolving: Our Future Vision

Page 12. Upcoming Initiatives: Expanding Our Reach and Learning Opportunities

Page 13. Reflections on Our Project's Core Sustainability

Evidence and Appendices

Appendix A How the Asset is used in the local community Appendix B Case Studies

Forward

This past year saw a significant yet smooth transition within our counselling team. When our dedicated Counselling Coordinator, Rachael, departed in October 2024, her commitment ensured a seamless handover. We were incredibly fortunate to welcome Rebecca Ilk, whose competence and deep alignment with CentrePeace's values have been transformative. Under Rebecca’s guidance, our counselling service has flourished and exceeded our expectations, now operating six days a week and supporting an average of 51 clients weekly through our team of 14 counsellors. We remain a highly regarded training hub, known for our safe and robust practices, continuing to work alongside the local Counselling colleges, the three main ones still being Devon Counselling College, Heartwood, and Iron Mill.

The joy of Sarah's return as Kitchen Coordinator in August 2023 highlighted her integral role in CentrePeace's past and future. Alongside her, Dee, our unwavering Centre Manager, continues to be the driving force behind our daily operations and invaluable support for our diverse service users. Our team was further strengthened in November 2022 by Lucy, our Volunteer Coordinator, who expertly manages and empowers our volunteers, drawing on her teaching background to foster their development and well-being.

Since Sept 2015, we had supported 198 volunteers gifting 28,000

hours. We now have on record, 261 volunteers gifting over 83,331 hours; so, we are well on target for drawing volunteers and delivering support hours in the community.

The financial stability and confidence instilled by the Big Lottery for the three core wages back in July have been pivotal. They've allowed CentrePeace to not only sustain but to significantly expand its outreach and services. We are more deeply embedded in the fabric of our local community, actively assisting individuals as they navigate the lingering effects of the pandemic and the ongoing economic pressures. It enables us to continually foster the tangible growth and support we can offer our local community.

The Story of Our Project This Year – November 23 – October 24

The Big Lottery's sustained salary funding has been foundational to CentrePeace's capacity to deliver essential services and achieve significant community impact. These vital positions are the backbone of our ability to operate with excellence and responsiveness.

The Power of Dedicated Leadership and Support

The Centre Manager holds an indispensable role, ensuring the charity's smooth and effective operation. This position guarantees CentrePeace is open six days a week, providing consistent access for the community. Crucially, the Centre Manager is responsible for implementing robust policies and procedures, upholding the highest operational standards, acting as the lead for safeguarding, and overseeing the myriad daily functions that keep our services running seamlessly.

Our Counselling Coordinator is paramount to maintaining a professional and highly effective counselling service. Recognising the acute need for mental health support in the Torbay area, CentrePeace uniquely offers free counselling , filling a critical gap and alleviating pressure on overstretched local resources. This service not only provides invaluable support to clients but also offers essential practical experience for counselling students to complete their 100 hours accreditation, nurturing future professionals within the field.

The Volunteer Coordinator plays a vital part in cultivating our dedicated volunteer force. This role is focused on empowering and supporting our volunteers, helping them to develop their skills, further their education, or gain valuable work experience. By collaborating closely with each volunteer, offering guidance, and most importantly, active listening and emotional support, the coordinator ensures our volunteers remain engaged, happy, and truly integrated into the CentrePeace family.

The Kitchen Coordinator is vital for the charity's smooth operation. This role involves managing the kitchen, ensuring it is a welcoming space for everyone. The coordinator is responsible for maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene . This includes overseeing the preparation of meals, managing stock, and coordinating the volunteer kitchen staff. Their work not only provides nourishing meals but also creates a sense of community and support for those who use the charity's services.

Community Flourishing and Sustainable Growth

CentrePeace is demonstrating remarkable growth, creating a powerful sense of friendship and connection for an increasing number of individuals within our "family." While we recently made a necessary, modest adjustment to our café prices, we consciously kept them as affordable as possible. Our regular patrons have expressed understanding, confirming that these adjustments remain within their means, allowing them to continue accessing nutritious, reasonably priced meals and crucial social connections during challenging economic times.

Building on this success, CentrePeace continues to offer a diverse range of free-of-charge events and groups to the local community. By strategically utilising our earned income, we are able to cover tutor and material costs for the vast majority of these workshops, ensuring that invaluable learning and social opportunities remain accessible to everyone, without financial barriers.

CentrePeace continues to be a vibrant hub for community engagement and support, offering a diverse array of activities that foster well-being, connection, and practical assistance. Our extensive program is a testament to the growth of CentrePeace, directly impacting the lives of countless individuals within the local community.

Enhancing Skills and Environmental Awareness:

Our Textile Tuesdays , ongoing since November 2021, provide a creative outlet with both morning and afternoon sessions. A highlight this year was a collaborative project that saw several groups contribute to a UNESCO Geopark-inspired collage. This was part of our broader "Climate and the Community" series, which successfully engaged local residents and organisations in understanding their role in sustainable living. This series, encompassing textile, art, photography, music, and poetry workshops, directly empowered participants to consider their environmental impact. Other initiatives included a community beach litter pick, a recycled Bee house project, and film-making workshops, further expanding our environmental focus.

Nurturing Holistic Well-being:

We are dedicated to supporting mental health and overall well-being through a range of holistic approaches. Our Holistic Energy Healing sessions offer an alternative pathway for those seeking complementary therapies. We also provide a regular Tai Chi class on Wednesday afternoons, promoting physical and mental balance. Our monthly Indigenous Storytelling Group fosters cultural understanding and connection by sharing diverse narratives, including those from an American Indian reservation. Additionally, our Thursday afternoon Music Group offers a welcoming space for individuals to learn instruments or simply enjoy singing together, enhancing social connection and creative expression. The Friday afternoon Holistic Art Group provides a calming and creative outlet, with all materials provided and varied activities each week.

Providing Essential Community Support:

CentrePeace plays a critical role in offering practical support during challenging times. We have hosted regular Energy Advice Drop-Ins , providing crucial guidance to the local community grappling with rising energy costs. Furthermore, our fortnightly service with the Torbay Advice Network offers invaluable assistance with benefits enquiries and complex form filling, addressing a significant need in our area

CentrePeace Counselling Service

Service Overview and Our Commitment

CentrePeace offers accessible, affordable counselling to adults in Paignton and the surrounding area. Our core mission is to provide vital support to individuals navigating mental health challenges, relationship difficulties, trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, and a range of other personal struggles. Our dedicated team comprises both fully qualified counsellors and those in the crucial final stages of their training, allowing us to deliver a diverse range of therapeutic approaches precisely tailored to each client's unique needs.

CentrePeace has not only grown but has firmly established itself as a vital mental health resource within the Paignton community. We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support, which directly translates into improved lives and stronger communities. We remain fully

committed to sustaining and building upon this impactful work in the years ahead, ensuring even more individuals receive the support they need.

Fostering Community Spirit and Celebration:

Beyond our regular programming, CentrePeace actively cultivates a strong sense of community through engaging events and initiatives. Our successful summer charity shop sale , offering 5 items for £1.00, provided affordable access to goods for local families. In August, we hosted a lively Summer Fair , featuring craft stalls, tombola’s, raffles, and live music, bringing joy and connection to the community. In September, our "Feast for Peace" celebration for World Peace Day saw us serve free Dhal Curry, creating a powerful opportunity for people to gather, meet new individuals, and foster unity. The festive season was celebrated with a vibrant Christmas Fair , offering unique stalls, Christmas-themed crepes, and festive karaoke. We proudly served low-priced vegetarian Christmas Dinners over two days, ensuring everyone could enjoy a festive meal, and hosted a free festive buffet for volunteers and the community, complete with our grand raffle and more karaoke.

Valuing Our Volunteers:

Our dedicated volunteers are the heart of CentrePeace, and we are committed to recognising their invaluable contributions. This past year, we showed our gratitude through several appreciation events, including a meal at a local carvery, a Chinese buffet to celebrate Chinese New Year. We are went on a sunset boat trip around the bay with a picnic back in in August, continuing our tradition of acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

Comprehensive Support and Community Outreach

Beyond our diverse group activities and community events, CentrePeace provides a crucial layer of individualised support, often "behind the scenes," to both our visitors and dedicated volunteers. These essential services address immediate needs, empower individuals, and foster greater community well-being.

We offer direct assistance with a range of complex administrative tasks and critical support services, including help with:

Benefit applications: Navigating forms for Blue Badges, Attendance Allowance, PIP forms, and Discretionary Housing Payments , alongside general benefit enquiries .
Essential services advocacy: Addressing housing queries and resolving gas and electric problems .
Basic needs provision: Supplying and signposting individuals to food parcels , ensuring those in crisis have access to essential provisions.

A significant highlight of our direct community support was our Christmas 2023 Christmas Hamper project . We provided 92 Christmas hampers to families identified by local schools as being in particular need. Each hamper was thoughtfully curated with enough food for a festive meal, essential basic foodstuffs, and an age-appropriate gift for every family member, bringing much-needed joy and relief during the holiday season.

Fostering Development and Partnerships

CentrePeace is also committed to nurturing the next generation and strengthening community partnerships. We proudly provide work experience placements for young college students with additional needs , offering valuable real-world experience in a supportive environment. Currently, we have a Duke of Edinburgh Award participant who contributes weekly to our kitchen, gaining practical skills and fulfilling their volunteering requirements.

Furthermore, we actively collaborate with local mental health charities and organisations, such as Click Sergeant and Eat That Frog , ensuring a joined-up approach to supporting the well-being of our community. These partnerships amplify our reach and enhance the comprehensive care available to those we serve.

How we actively engage with the community beyond our physical premises

CentrePeace engages with the community beyond its physical premises through a number of key strategies:

Collaborating with other organisations: CentrePeace partners with other local charities and groups, such as AGE UK and Imagine This Torbay, to offer groups, volunteering, and events for individuals they are working with. This collaborative approach extends our reach and provides a more comprehensive support network.
Signposting: While we provide many services in-house, we also act as a hub for information, directing people to other relevant services that can help them. This ensures people get the support they need, even if CentrePeace can't provide it directly.
Targeted support programs: CentrePeace has a focus on identifying and managing barriers that prevent people from successfully re-entering the community. This shows that we work directly with specific groups outside of the building to offer support and aid in their reintegration.
Digital and online presence: As a modern organisation, we utilise a variety of digital platforms, such as its website and social media (like Facebook), to share news, promote events, and connect with a wider audience who may not be able to visit in person.

In essence, CentrePeace's engagement extends beyond its physical doors through a combination of partnerships, information sharing, and targeted outreach to those who may not be able to come to them.

Deepening Community Engagement and Responsive Services

At CentrePeace, we believe that truly effective support is rooted in a profound understanding of local needs. For the past 12 years, we've actively cultivated a model where the local community directly informs and shapes our services, ensuring our strategies remain adaptable and relevant. We consistently listen to residents' concerns, implementing new support and services or providing crucial signposting whenever possible.

Recognising that not everyone can walk through our doors, we actively engage with the community beyond our physical premises. This outreach not only provides invaluable one-toone feedback but also raises awareness of CentrePeace's offerings among those who might not otherwise know about us. This direct connection ensures that local people are deeply involved in how our services are run, how our building is managed, and how they can actively support our delivery through volunteering.

Strategic partnerships with other local organisations are also vital to our approach. These collaborations enable us to highlight and provide essential services that might otherwise be overlooked or missing within the community, extending our collective reach and impact. CentrePeace has continuously evolved by developing ideas directly from participants since day one, a testament to our profound community embeddedness. Our ultimate aim is to secure our ongoing presence and further increase our reach.

Empowering Through Participation and Feedback

Connecting with the community is key to identifying future leaders, fundraisers, volunteers, beneficiaries, and project members. We keep our community informed and engaged through flyers and posters, detailing past and upcoming events, and by leveraging social media platforms to advertise our work.

Our volunteers have an immense impact on the daily running of CentrePeace, and we are incredibly fortunate to offer such meaningful involvement opportunities. Monthly volunteer meetings are crucial forums for developing new project ideas and discussing the centre’s operations, including the delivery of new activities. A powerful example of a volunteerdriven initiative is the introduction of a volunteer food bank, providing essential support in response to rising food prices and cost-of-living challenges.

We actively solicit feedback through various channels. This valuable feedback is systematically collated using tools like Excel, depending on the data type. A fantastic community-driven idea that has been implemented is the 'Pay It Forward' board in our café, allowing individuals to pre-pay for a meal or drink for someone in need, ensuring those struggling financially can still access nutritious food and utilise our facilities.

We actively participate in public meetings and engage in "knowledge and skills exchanges" with other organisations to continuously learn and adapt. Our vision for the future prioritises adaptability, with ongoing consideration for new approaches, services, and expanded facilities as suggested by the community, always striving to implement feasible ideas. We continuously review available information, including the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, to ensure our services align with the most pressing community demands. We also regularly ask locals and volunteers what activities and events they would like to see at CentrePeace, actively encouraging their involvement in the organisation and promotion to foster a strong sense of ownership and belonging.

Acknowledging Our Pillars of Support

As always, we extend our immense gratitude to everyone who contributes to CentrePeace and the well-being of our community. Our volunteers are truly exceptional, and we are incredibly fortunate to now have a balanced, stable, and strong staff group. Together with our trustees, they bring a vast array of invaluable skill sets, and we feel incredibly lucky to have them all onboard.

The Transformative Impact of CentrePeace

The tangible differences CentrePeace makes in the community are best illustrated by the voices of those we serve. Case studies from our dedicated volunteers provided in the Appendices, offering compelling personal insights into the impact of our work. Further evidence of our collaborative success is found in the letters from local service users, highlighting how our support strengthens their efforts and fills critical gaps in community provision.

We are committed to widespread accessibility, actively promoting CentrePeace through our website ( www.centrepeace.org.uk ), social media ( www.facebook.com/centrepeacepaignton ), promotional events, and word of mouth.

We are also enhancing our digital reach with a new website. Crucially, CentrePeace has no strict entry criteria (beyond common courtesy), ensuring we welcome everyone from the community who seeks our support.

Addressing Deep-Seated Deprivation and Vulnerability

CentrePeace is strategically located within a Lower Layer Super Output Area (LSOA) of Paignton that was ranked among the most deprived 10% of LSOAs in England (Index of Multiple Deprivation 2019). This extreme deprivation brings with it a host of interconnected challenges, most notably widespread loneliness, and isolation among vulnerable and marginalised individuals.

A significant proportion of our users contend with ill mental health, finding vital support through our counselling services, community workshops, and groups, or simply by accessing the café as a safe and welcoming space. We also serve a large percentage of elderly and/or vulnerable individuals who primarily utilise our café and charity shop, benefiting from our affordable pricing that enables them to visit multiple times a week.

Our reach extends far beyond our immediate vicinity, demonstrating the critical need for our services. While 74% of our supported visitors come from Paignton, 17% travel from Torquay, and the remaining 9% from elsewhere across the bay. These figures, which do not include casual drop-in visitors to the café, shop, or craft groups, highlight CentrePeace as a regional beacon of support. Over half of our visitors come through personal recommendation from family or friends, with the remainder being effectively signposted by local GP surgeries, social prescribers, mental health agencies, social services, and other community organisations. The broader context of Torbay itself is marked by significant pockets of poverty and deprivation, ranking as the most deprived upper-tier local authority in the Southwest. With 27.5% of Torbay residents living in the 10% most deprived areas in England, and alarming rates of looked-after children and domestic violence (the highest in the Southwest), the need for CentrePeace's comprehensive and accessible services is profound and ever-increasing.

We are continually expanding our range of workshops and services, proactively responding to the ever-changing community needs. This dynamic approach ensures that we provide relevant support to our current users while actively attracting new individuals who can benefit from the growing array of opportunities CentrePeace offers.

Appendices B Case Studies

Key Learnings: A Community-Led Approach to Impact

At CentrePeace, our 12 years of growth have taught us that true community impact stems from a deep, two-way relationship with those we serve. We've established robust structures to ensure local people are actively involved in the running of our organisation and the shaping of our services. Our regular Trustee meetings and dedicated in-house volunteer meetings provide direct avenues for community insight. We also extend an open invitation to the wider community to join us after the formal business of our Annual General Meetings (AGMs), enabling them to stay informed about CentrePeace's latest news and future plans. This commitment to continuous dialogue ensures a rich flow of insights, learning, and opinions.

We foster a visible local presence, openness, and transparency through strategic use of social media, our website, leaflet, and in-house advertising. We actively encourage community feedback and opinions via comments, messages, phone calls, emails, and in-person conversations, ensuring we are always listening to the pulse of our local community.

Forming strategic partnerships with local organisations is fundamental to aligning our work with shared missions, values, and aims. This collaborative approach not only facilitates mutual learning but also enables us to share vital information that enhances the overall wellbeing of the entire community.

We've observed that small, informal groups driven by common interests are critical to community mobilisation. We consistently provide feedback forms to groups and participants, actively incorporating their insights to refine existing services and implement new support where needed.

By working closely with individuals and organisations across the local community, we can effectively tailor our services to meet specific needs and preferences, ensuring they are designed and delivered with maximum impact. This community-led approach guarantees that our opening times, services, and information are truly suitable for the people we serve. Their direct involvement helps us prioritise resources for the greatest effect and make informed decisions about adapting our offerings. Information gathered from our groups and activities, combined with financial insights, allows us to deliver services in a way that truly works for our beneficiaries and is precisely tailored to the needs of our local community.

Consistency in communication and responsiveness to community input is foundational to fostering community cohesion. We never underestimate the importance of continuous liaison with our beneficiaries and the wider local community; their involvement has been indispensable to CentrePeace's evolution. Our continued growth and strength will only come from our unwavering commitment to listening and acting on the needs of our community, recognising that every voice – from advocates to beneficiaries – is important and contributes to a united community. We also believe that individuals who may appear to be part of a problem can often be integral to finding a solution.

Adapting and Evolving: Our Future Vision

For the foreseeable future, CentrePeace aims to maintain and enhance the vital support we provide to our local community. We are committed to continuously improving our existing services by actively listening to the evolving needs of the community, especially amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. Our core strategy involves securing funding for key staff salaries, which enables us to reinvest all earned income from our café, shop, and donations directly back into community services and resources.

Without the salary funding, we would regrettably have had to scale down services, which would have significantly impacted the level of support we can offer. While our dedicated volunteers are the lifeblood of CentrePeace, keeping our doors open and the centre running, the salaried staff are indispensable. Their specific skill sets are vital to delivering the professional and consistent services our community relies on.

Upcoming Initiatives: Expanding Our Reach and Learning Opportunities

We are actively planning for CentrePeace's future, with numerous exciting activities and taster sessions on the horizon to encourage wider participation and exploration.

Some new ideas for training courses, workshops, and community collaboration projects for CentrePeace are:

New Training Courses and Workshops

Expanding on the existing skills-based offerings, we are looking to introduce new courses that are in high demand and directly benefit the community.

Digital Skills for Job Searching: A course focused on creating professional resumes online, using job search websites, and preparing for virtual interviews. This could be a natural progression from the existing computer skills classes.
Basic Financial Literacy: A workshop to help people manage personal budgets, understand banking, and navigate debt. This could be particularly valuable for those re-entering the workforce or managing new financial situations.
Food and Nutrition Education: Building on the Kitchen Coordinator's role, workshops could be developed to teach low-cost, healthy meal planning.
Volunteer Management Skills: For volunteers who want to take on more responsibility, a short course on leadership, team building, and communication could be offered.

More Community Collaboration Projects

To engage with the community beyond the physical premises, CentrePeace is looking to initiate projects that benefit both the charity and its neighbours.

Community Garden: Partnering with a local school or council to create and maintain a community garden. The produce could be used in the CentrePeace kitchen, and the garden would provide a relaxing, outdoor space for volunteers and community members to work together.
"Skill Swap" Program: Create a program where people in the community can "swap" skills. For example, someone who is good at sewing could teach a mending class in exchange for someone teaching them a new skill like basic car maintenance. This would empower the community to share their own expertise.
Pop-Up Events: Host "pop-up" versions of popular CentrePeace activities, like the art workshops or a simple coffee morning, at local libraries or community halls in other areas of Torbay. This would help the charity reach new people who may not know about its services.
Donation Drives: Organise drives for specific needs, such as a school supply drive before the academic year starts or a winter coat drive. This is a low-effort way for the wider community to contribute and support CentrePeace's clients.

CentrePeace is a truly vital part of the local community, serving as a safe and warm space for many. It's a volunteer-based, people-centred initiative, providing essential space and resources for local residents to connect and support each other in a welcoming, safe, and nondiscriminatory environment. For those navigating long-term mental health conditions or in recovery from addictions, we offer crucial stability, consistency, and availability – a place and space that profoundly matters. This helps reduce isolation, empowers individuals to manage their mental health, fosters new friendships, and enables independent living. We are

steadfast in our plan to remain an integral part of the lives within our local community for the foreseeable future.

Reflections on Our Project's Core Sustainability

Our experience over the years at CentrePeace has unequivocally demonstrated that securing salary funding for our three main staffing positions is paramount. It is the essential foundation that allows us to continue delivering vital support and giving back to the local community in the comprehensive ways we do. The income generated from our café, shop, and donations effectively covers all our other operational costs, directly enabling us to provide a wide array of services and resources to the community.

Evidence and Appendices

Appendix A How the Asset is used in the local community Appendix B Case Studies

Appendix A How the Asset is used in the local community

CentrePeace is used by a wide range of people within the local community, serving as a neutral ground where people of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses can meet, interact, and engage with each other. Some of which include:

Those lonely and isolated of all ages
People with disorganised mental health
People with learning difficulties
The elderly
Single parents
Those in recovery from substance misuse
Vulnerable families with children on Child Protection Plans
People facing poverty, experiencing homelessness or rough sleeping
The long term unemployed

How CentrePeace is used by those in the community

CentrePeace is used by a wide range of people within the local community, serving as a neutral ground where people of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses can meet, interact, and engage with each other. Some of which include:  Those lonely and isolated of all ages  People with disorganised mental health  People with learning difculties  The elderly  Single parents  Those in recovery from substance misuse  Vulnerable families with children on Child Protection Plans  People facing poverty, experiencing homelessness or rough sleeping  The long term unemployed	CentrePeace is used by a wide range of people within the local community, serving as a neutral ground where people of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses can meet, interact, and engage with each other. Some of which include:  Those lonely and isolated of all ages  People with disorganised mental health  People with learning difculties  The elderly  Single parents  Those in recovery from substance misuse  Vulnerable families with children on Child Protection Plans  People facing poverty, experiencing homelessness or rough sleeping  The long term unemployed
How CentrePeace is used by those in the community Group supported Service Provided Those lonely and isolated of all ages People with disorganised mental health People with learning difculties The elderly Single parents Those in recovery from substance misuse Vulnerable families with children on Child Protection Plans People facing poverty and homelessness The long term unemployed Daily drop in and a safe place to be Café with great, fair-trade cofee and freshly cooked vegetarian food – open 6 days a week Charity shop with real charity shop prices Companions to chat to at the centre Free use of IT suite (support available) Job search Support Help with form-flling, phone calls, paperwork A variety of groups held weekly – anyone can join in. All are free with the exception of those marked * for which there is a £3 charge:  Art for Relaxation – Thurs  Textile group - Tues  Tai Chi - Weds  Colouring for relaxation – Sat  Music – Thursday  Natural Healing – Weds Volunteering opportunities – café, shop, admin, cleaning, allotment, fundraising, event management, group facilitation
Group supported	Service Provided
Those lonely and isolated of all ages People with disorganised mental health People with learning difculties The elderly Single parents Those in recovery from substance misuse Vulnerable families with children on Child Protection Plans People facing poverty and homelessness The long term unemployed	Daily drop in and a safe place to be Café with great, fair-trade cofee and freshly cooked vegetarian food – open 6 days a week Charity shop with real charity shop prices Companions to chat to at the centre Free use of IT suite (support available) Job search Support Help with form-flling, phone calls, paperwork A variety of groups held weekly – anyone can join in. All are free with the exception of those marked * for which there is a £3 charge:  Art for Relaxation – Thurs  Textile group - Tues  Tai Chi - Weds  Colouring for relaxation – Sat  Music – Thursday  Natural Healing – Weds Volunteering opportunities – café, shop, admin, cleaning, allotment, fundraising, event management, group facilitation

	Free counselling service Social welfare programme implementation Advocacy Local Outreach project CAB Weekly drop-in Christmas Hampers for local people Summer Fayre Crisis Support:  Food Parcels (backup for Paignton Community Larder)  laundry facilities  Free meals Regular, free, workshops, including:  Basic cooking on a budget  Employability  First Aid  Customer Service  Budget Management  Confict Resolution  Food Hygiene
Those in recovery from substance misuse	Weekly Support Groups To meet and share experiences and plan trips for themselves and others at the centre to ofer a new direction, make new friendships and promote inclusion
Those currently not venturing out of their homes	Outreachproject. Phone calls to people in their homes
Rough sleepers and those facing homelessness	Food, clothing, bedding and use of shower and laundry facilities for rough sleepers

Appendix B Case Studies

People’s Stories

Beneficiaries are at the very centre of our work; our aim is to enable people to be the best they can and learn to live productive lives, whatever their circumstances or life stories.

Early intervention remains a critical part of our work and offering a friendly place of welcome is key to helping those most marginalised to feel comfortable and able to trust that help is at hand.

Bringing people together to build strong relationships both personally and across communities is what leads to growth and helps us flourish, both personally and as a commuity.

Having a place within our neighbourhood to facilitate relationships and offer meaningful community engagement is the vehicle for change, the place to germinate ideas and new possibilities. The place, our people and its projects are a vital resource for early support when people are uncertain which way to turn.

Some of the stories below highlight individual journeys from referral into the project to personal progression and, hopefully, show how we work with individuals to support their recovery – whatever that might look like.

Some people chose to remain anonymous; others are happy to be identified.

Case Studies

Ethan Lovett-Stroud

Before my time at CentrePeace, I struggled with anything social and had lots of fears on the world such as leaving the house and I didn’t enjoy the company of others.

I have grown a lot since those days. I excel at conversing with people nowadays, I still find social situations hard, but CentrePeace really brought me out of my shell through my own learning and their support. I learned things about myself that I wouldn’t have known if it wasn’t thanks to the amazing people at CentrePeace.

They welcome in anyone no matter what age or point in life they are at, and they really helped me when I started out here. During my time at CentrePeace I’ve really learned a great deal of life skills and that learning ultimately led me to get a paid job and it’s helped many others reach the same factor.

I implore anyone who is struggling in life or just feeling a little down or need a fresh start this is the place to be. Even if it’s for a few hours, you can learn so much and meet many amazing people here.

I owe a lot to CentrePeace for helping me and guiding me to a better place in my life and I truly thank them.

Ethan Lovett-Stroud

Case Study 2

Evelyne Haydon

‘When I think back on my life, I realise I’m in a good place now. I could write a book about what our family has been through over the years: business ownership in this country and abroad, franchise development, bankruptcy, owning nothing other than our clothes, a car and its contents; homelessness, being placed in temporary accommodation with our 13 year old daughter in onebedroom alongside drug addicts and alcoholics; reinventing our lives in different parts of the country to make ends meet, always following the work; taking jobs with accommodation, always earning; saving, saving, saving to get our foot on the property ladder again in later life, building up our lives once again.

It’s been a roller coaster ride; I’ve written it all down! I’m sure you can see what I mean when I say someone less strong might not have come through this. I was very alone when my husband died but now, I feel secure and comfortable. It might sound corny, but I got the feeling that CentrePeace saved me. I needed the warmth, the family atmosphere. I wouldn’t have got that anywhere else.’

Case study 3

Luke Foreman

Luke first came to CentrePeace in 2015 during his time in hospital. He was brought here for a coffee, and immediately thought it was a ‘lovely place’.

At that time, he was living in Torquay, but he moved to Paignton in 2022 and started coming regularly to CentrePeace. He made some lovely friends and soon asked about becoming a volunteer. He started in the shop, as his previous experience had been at the British Heat Foundation, but so moved to the café where he found the work to be more varied and interesting.

Luke says that what he most likes about CentrePeace is the friendship and continuity; knowing that there is always a place where he can go and find people when he needs them. He has made some really good friendships, and this has allowed him to have a social life outside CentrePeace too. He says that before he came here he felt he was ‘mute’ and couldn’t talk easily to people, but CentrePeace has given him the confidence and helped to develop his communication and social skills. He has joined in with all the social activities organised for the volunteers, including the Christmas dinner and Chinese buffet.

Luke has also taken advantage of the free Tai Chi lessons, singing sessions and Computer skills support provided by CentrePeace. He finds Tai Chi very important for his mental well-being and the Computer Skills support has helped him to manage his emails more effectively.

Luke thinks CentrePeace is the ‘perfect’ place for him.

Case study 4

Richard Ames

Richard lives down the road from CentrePeace and started coming to the café around 5 or 6 years ago as. He immediately found it a very friendly and welcoming place where he could relax and be sure of finding somebody to talk to. He said he had been finding things hard and CentrePeace has been a godsend and has helped him to regain his trust in people. Sometimes on his visits he has had informal chats with Rachael the counsellor, who has given him advice and support. Richard became a volunteer and for a while gave math tuition. He has now just started volunteering in the café and is finding the work enjoyable. It has been another step in helping him to gain confidence in himself.

Richard says it would be a disaster for him if CentrePeace was to close.

Case Study 5

Shelley Smith

When I started as a volunteer at Centrepeace in 2021 I lacked self-confidence, and I was managing anxiety. I had recently walked away from a 30-year career, and I felt lost.

I was quickly made to feel welcome and a part of the Centrepeace family including regular customers, fellow volunteers and managers.

Opportunities were flexible to suit me, and it was lovely to be able to choose my hours and days. I initially worked in both the cafe and the shop and after a while, I found that I was more comfortable when working in the shop which I continue to do.

I have also attended weekly workshops provided by the Centre such as Holistic Art Therapy and Textiles. I have enjoyed these. I have loved developing my creativity and learning many new skills. I continue to attend these sessions.

I now run a wellbeing group at another community centre using creative activities and I support adults at Centrepeace in developing their computer skills. I am also supporting a colleague with a project to run a Kindness Club for young children at a variety of venues.

I will always be grateful for the kindness, support and encouragement that Centrepeace has given me to develop my personal growth. It is lovely to feel accepted without judgment and provided with the freedom to choose what I felt comfortable with at the time. I am now more confident with who I am and optimistic about what I can achieve.

Centrepeace

Income & Expenditure Account & Balance Sheet For the Year Ended 31 October 2024

Supported by the Lloyds Bank Foundation for England & Wales Charity Number 1150049

Centrepeace

Contents

Reference and Administrative Details	1
Accountants' Report	2
Statement of financial activities	3
Balance Sheet	4
Notes to the financial statements	5 to 8
Statement of financial activities per fund	9

Centrepeace

Reference and Administrative Details

Charity name Centre Peace Company number 08215824 Charity number 1150049 Officers Teresa Emberson Lisa Barsley Pamela Harvey Linda Gillespie (Resigned 30th April 2024) Tracey White (Resigned 1st August 2024) Darren Mulhall (Resigned 16th January 2024) Tina Hooks (Appointed 12th September 2024) Fiona Bailey (Appointed 24th October 2024)

Accountants Vincent & Co Accountants 37 Shiphay Lane Torquay Devon TQ2 7DU

Page 1

Accountants' Report to the Trustees on the Unaudited Accounts of

Centrepeace

In accordance with the engagement letter, and in order to assist you to fulfil your duties under the Companies Act 2006, we have compiled the financial statements of the charity which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities,and the related notes from the accounting records and information and explanations you have given to us.

This report is made to the Charity's Board of Trustees, as a body, in accordance with the terms of our engagement. Our work has been undertaken so that we might compile the financial statements that we have been engaged to compile, report to the Charity's Board of Trustees that we have done so, and state those matters that we have agreed to state to them in this 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 Charity and the Charity's Board of Trustees, as a body, for our work or for this report.

You have acknowledged on the balance sheet as at 31 October 2024 your duty to ensure that the charity has kept proper accounting records and to prepare financial statements that give a true and fair view under the Charities Act 2011. You consider that the charity is exempt from the statutory requirement for an audit for the year.

We have not been instructed to carry out an audit of the financial statements. For this reason, we have not verified the accuracy or completeness of the accounting records or information and explanations you have given to us and we do not, therefore, express any opinion on the financial statements.

………………………………….

Vincent & Co Accountants 37 Shiphay Lane Torquay Devon TQ2 7DU

Page 2

Centrepeace

Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

Note Incoming resources Incoming resources from generated funds Donations and legacies 2 Income from other trading activities 3 Income from investments 4 Charitable activities 5 Total incoming resources Resources expended Costs of generating funds Expenditure on raising funds 6 Total resources expended Net movements in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds 2024 £ £ £ 10,121 1,215 11,335 84,388 1,225 85,613 208 - 208 10,206 36,828 47,034 104,922 39,268 144,190 117,608 46,964 164,572 117,608 46,964 164,572 (12,686) (7,697) (20,382) 35,589 56,203 91,792 22,903 48,507 71,409	Total Funds 2023 £ 11,579 79,762 1,101 66,158 158,600 162,141 162,141 (3,541) 95,333 91,792

Page 3

Centrepeace

Balance Sheet as at 31 October 2024

Note Fixed Assets Tangible assets 7 Current Assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 9 Net current assets Net assets The funds of the charity: Restricted funds Unrestricted funds Reserves	£ £ 20,379 - 54,247 54,247 (3,217) 51,030 71,409 48,507 22,903 71,409 2024	£ £ 13,436 - 90,046 90,046 (11,691) 78,355 91,791 56,203 35,589 91,792 2023

For the financial year in question the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

No members have required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibility for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and for the preparation of accounts.

Approved by the Board on 1st July 2024 and signed on its behalf by:

………………………………….

Teresa Emberson

………………………………….

Pamela Harvey

Page 4

1 Accounting policies

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (Charities SORP FRSSE) (effective 1 January 2015) and applicable accounting standards.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the charity is responsible in law.

Fund accounting policy

Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees' discretion in furtherance of the objectives of the charity. Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area

Further details of each fund are disclosed in note 12.

Incoming resources

Donations are recognised where there is entitlement, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Incoming resources from tax reclaims are included in the statement of financial activities at the same time as the gift to which they relate.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the charity. Expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Fixed assets

Individual fixed assets costing £0 or more are initially recorded at cost.

Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less d d l l h d f l l f f ll

Plant and machinery 20% reducing balance

Page 5

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

Operating leases

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged in the statement of financial activities on a straight line basis over the lease term.

2 Donations and legacies

Donations income 3 Shop income Room rental Events income Club/workshop income Sundry income 4 5 Big Lottery Community Fund Grants Tudor Trust Total Income Deposit interest Charitable activities Income from other trading activities Café income Income from investments	Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 10,121 1,215 11,335 10,121 1,215 11,335 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 20,790 20,790 62,879 - 62,879 398 398 75 1,225 1,300 - - 246 246 84,388 1,225 85,613 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 208 - 208 208 - 208 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ - 36,828 36,828 10,206 - 10,206 - - - 10,206 36,828 47,034 104,922 39,268 144,190	Total Funds 2023 £ 11,579 11,579 Total Funds 2023 £ 18,413 58,440 120 1,854 - 935 79,762 Total Funds 2023 £ 1,101 1,101 Total Funds 2023 £ 65,658 500 - 66,158 158,600

Page 6

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

6 Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
Funds
2024
Payroll costs
35,647
41,995
77,642
Staffing & Recruitment Costs
1,450
-
1,450
Catering supplies
17,868
-
17,868
Community Wellbeing
360
-
360
Expensed equipment
-
-
-
Computer maintenance & software
2,194
-
2,194
Repairs, maintenance & renovation wor
1,489
-
1,489
Rent
13,500
-
13,500
Rates
194
-
194
Insurance
2,879
-
2,879
Accountancy fees
951
-
951
Legal & professional fees
1,444
-
1,444
Utilities - gas, electric & water
8,819
-
8,819
Training & education
479
-
479
Counsellings costs
2,102
-
2,102
Shop sundries & fittings
219
-
219
Telephone & broadband
848
-
848
Office supplies
375
-
375
Café costs (not for resale)
259
-
259
Club/workshop expenses
9,277
4,390
13,667
Travel expenses
181
-
181
Art and Craft materials
89
-
89
Printing, postage & stationery
109
-
109
Waste collection
1,837
-
1,837
Licences & subscriptions
884
-
884
Health & safety and security
1,097
-
1,097
Caretaking & cleaning
2,473
-
2,473
Community care
1,034
-
1,034
Volunteer expenses
3,062
369
3,431
Operational development BL Fund
-
-
-
Miscellaneous costs
85
-
85
Promotional/Website costs
142
210
352
Peoperty project costs
1,170
-
1,170
Selling costs
-
-
-
5,095
-
5,095
117,608
46,964
164,572
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets

Total
Funds
2023
77,547
508
18,876
-
313
2,144
2,516
12,999
328
2,475
859
1,470
7,816
54
2,306
690
977
742
1,211
8,927
-
-
159
1,701
427
922
2,461
1,977
3,192
1,034
138
559
3,310
145
3,359
162,140

Page 7

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

Tangible fixed assets

VAT Control P Harvey property loan Workplace pension Cost Brought forward Additions Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Payroll liabilities As at 31 October 2024 As at 1 November 2023 Debtors Accounts receivable As at 31 October 2024 Depreciation Brought forwards Charge for the year As at 31 October 2022 Net book value	Furniture & Equipment 38,975 12,037 51,012 20% RBB 25,539 5,095 30,634 20,379 13,436 2024 £ - - 2024 £ (3,217) - - - (3,217)	Total 38,975 12,037 51,012 25,539 5,095 30,634 20,379 13,436 2023 £ - - 2023 £ (2,278) - (10,000) 588 (11,689)

Page 8

Centrepeace

Statement of financial activities for the Period Ended 31 October 2024

Incoming resources
Incoming resources from generated funds
Donations and legacies
Income from other trading activities
Income from investments
Charitable activities
Torbay Council Grant: Covid-19
Total incoming resources
Resources expended
Costs of generating funds
Expenditure on raising funds
Total resources expended
Net movements in funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward

Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
Funds
2024
£
£
£
10,121
1,215
11,335
84,388
1,225
85,613
208
-
208
10,206
36,828
47,034
-
-
-
104,922
39,268
144,190
117,608
46,964
164,572
117,608
46,964
164,572
(12,687)
(7,696)
(20,382)
35,589
56,203
91,792
22,902
48,507
71,409

Page 9

Centrepeace

Income & Expenditure Account & Balance Sheet For the Year Ended 31 October 2024

Supported by the Lloyds Bank Foundation for England & Wales Charity Number 1150049

Centrepeace

Contents

Reference and Administrative Details	1
Accountants' Report	2
Statement of financial activities	3
Balance Sheet	4
Notes to the financial statements	5 to 8
Statement of financial activities per fund	9

Centrepeace

Reference and Administrative Details

Accountants Vincent & Co Accountants 37 Shiphay Lane Torquay Devon TQ2 7DU

Page 1

Accountants' Report to the Trustees on the Unaudited Accounts of

Centrepeace

………………………………….

Vincent & Co Accountants 37 Shiphay Lane Torquay Devon TQ2 7DU

Page 2

Centrepeace

Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

Note Incoming resources Incoming resources from generated funds Donations and legacies 2 Income from other trading activities 3 Income from investments 4 Charitable activities 5 Total incoming resources Resources expended Costs of generating funds Expenditure on raising funds 6 Total resources expended Net movements in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds 2024 £ £ £ 10,121 1,215 11,335 84,388 1,225 85,613 208 - 208 10,206 36,828 47,034 104,922 39,268 144,190 117,608 46,964 164,572 117,608 46,964 164,572 (12,686) (7,697) (20,382) 35,589 56,203 91,792 22,903 48,507 71,409	Total Funds 2023 £ 11,579 79,762 1,101 66,158 158,600 162,141 162,141 (3,541) 95,333 91,792

Page 3

Centrepeace

Balance Sheet as at 31 October 2024

Note Fixed Assets Tangible assets 7 Current Assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 9 Net current assets Net assets The funds of the charity: Restricted funds Unrestricted funds Reserves	£ £ 20,379 - 54,247 54,247 (3,217) 51,030 71,409 48,507 22,903 71,409 2024	£ £ 13,436 - 90,046 90,046 (11,691) 78,355 91,791 56,203 35,589 91,792 2023

For the financial year in question the company was entitled to exemption under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

No members have required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibility for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and for the preparation of accounts.

Approved by the Board on 1st July 2024 and signed on its behalf by:

………………………………….

Teresa Emberson

………………………………….

Pamela Harvey

Page 4

1 Accounting policies

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

Fund accounting policy

Further details of each fund are disclosed in note 12.

Incoming resources

Donations are recognised where there is entitlement, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Incoming resources from tax reclaims are included in the statement of financial activities at the same time as the gift to which they relate.

Resources expended

Fixed assets

Individual fixed assets costing £0 or more are initially recorded at cost.

Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less d d l l h d f l l f f ll

Plant and machinery 20% reducing balance

Page 5

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

Operating leases

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged in the statement of financial activities on a straight line basis over the lease term.

2 Donations and legacies

Donations income 3 Shop income Room rental Events income Club/workshop income Sundry income 4 5 Big Lottery Community Fund Grants Tudor Trust Total Income Deposit interest Charitable activities Income from other trading activities Café income Income from investments	Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 10,121 1,215 11,335 10,121 1,215 11,335 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 20,790 20,790 62,879 - 62,879 398 398 75 1,225 1,300 - - 246 246 84,388 1,225 85,613 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ 208 - 208 208 - 208 Unrestricted Funds £ Restricted Funds £ Total Funds 2024 £ - 36,828 36,828 10,206 - 10,206 - - - 10,206 36,828 47,034 104,922 39,268 144,190	Total Funds 2023 £ 11,579 11,579 Total Funds 2023 £ 18,413 58,440 120 1,854 - 935 79,762 Total Funds 2023 £ 1,101 1,101 Total Funds 2023 £ 65,658 500 - 66,158 158,600

Page 6

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

6 Expenditure on raising funds

Page 7

Centrepeace

Notes to Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 October 2024

……….continued

Tangible fixed assets

VAT Control P Harvey property loan Workplace pension Cost Brought forward Additions Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Payroll liabilities As at 31 October 2024 As at 1 November 2023 Debtors Accounts receivable As at 31 October 2024 Depreciation Brought forwards Charge for the year As at 31 October 2022 Net book value	Furniture & Equipment 38,975 12,037 51,012 20% RBB 25,539 5,095 30,634 20,379 13,436 2024 £ - - 2024 £ (3,217) - - - (3,217)	Total 38,975 12,037 51,012 25,539 5,095 30,634 20,379 13,436 2023 £ - - 2023 £ (2,278) - (10,000) 588 (11,689)

Page 8

Centrepeace

Statement of financial activities for the Period Ended 31 October 2024

Page 9