Empowerment
Charity
Annual
Impact
ort
2024-25
ii:
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## Contents
## Welcome
01
## A year of growth
05
Blackpool Advocacy Hub We are proud that... Charlie’s story
08
Healthwatch Blackpool Listening & Learning Kelly’s story
14
> Spotlight: Priority Wards 19 At a glance Robbie’s story
> Health Inequalities Engagements 22 Celebrating Togetherness
The DEN Making a difference Byron’s story
26
Spotlight: Tell Nicole At a glance Jonah’s story
31
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Contents
## Solace
34
Connection & Conversation Sonia’s story
Elliot’s Place Finding Hope & Friendship Pete’s story
## I am Dylan
From board games to belonging Alex’s story Lived Experience Hope, action & compassion Naomi’s story
## The Power of Community
38
42
46
50
Why we are different Voices of our commuinty Big wins and little victories So... What’s next?
## Final sign off from our CEO
## To our Funders
## Finances
64 65 66
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Welcome
## **Each year I look forward to Empowerment’s Annual Report**
where all the services are showcased in one document. I enjoy the narrative and visual consolidation that demonstrates all of the hard work and impact that Empowerment has had over the last year, and this report is no exception. It illustrates the continued development of the charity, professionalism and commitment to serving communities across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.
Over the last few years our income has continued to grow, despite the charity facing significant financial headwinds that have tested our economic resilience and adaptability. In meeting these challenges, we have taken and are planning further steps to mitigate against much of the economic impact.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our funding partners, donors and commissioners who, through their continued support, have demonstrated their belief in our work, enabling vital help for people to be there when they need it.
In addition to this, we have taken strategic and organisational decisions to strengthen our Senior Leadership Team and focus on the delivery of services to our diverse communities underpinned by our core principles..
Our services are supporting people, families and communities with the everyday issues that they face, and our strategic strength is in bringing about lasting change. We achieve this by highlighting pertinent local issues through co-production, community involvement and lived experience.
Empowerment is very fortunate to have a committed, knowledgeable and experienced Board of Trustees. Our committed trustees bring a breadth of expertise and play a key part in helping Empowerment to navigate ongoing financial, policy and strategic changes.
**My sincere thanks to the Board for their ongoing contributions.**
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
**Mike Crowther** was We were delighted when our CEO awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honors, for his contribution to social justice and community support in Blackpool.
> AM iorRe rts aPats Rotieg b> soakeaesn) be Psa eee Sn INa[AIR] IM RaeaSoace aR Mig, 7 EREa aph LELne b>enShyeetSa:eaeAhvie eRe eeeAM ESNswtNy) gates ieSe 3Bey Er BTSBY he tsROOM“2. gS1 FPimeaR UeAEN s : Congratulations to Mike A much-deserved recognition and award! **02**
***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
## **oices of our** V **com**
_“The last 2 months have been the worst time of my life but without Solace, I probably would have gone off the cliff. Truly grateful.”_
_“You have been a godsend for me which has allowed me to gain confidence.”_
_“Loving it Mate! Total life turnaround!”_
_“Groups are great, they give me good routine and it feels weird if I haven’t been.”_
_“I was in a dark place. Solace have been amazing. The team are so understanding and thoughtful, always there with a brew and kind words that help me make it through the day.”_
_"The people here are just so lovely and we never feel judged. The staff are so lovely and will always help in any which way they can. I am so grateful."_
_“100% better... I was at really low ebb, and they came at the right time. Picked me up and got me the support.”_
_“The most important thing is that the children had fun and enjoyed themselves. Thanks again to everyone who helped make this event happen!”_
_“I can now see light at the end of the tunnel and feel enriched by their company and the activities that Solace organise.”_
_"The personal experience of the guys at Elliot’s Place, and their understanding and support, has helped me on multiple occasions and I know it will continue going forward. I have realised this can play a big and positive part in people’s lives because it has in mine.”_
A YEAR OF GROWTH
FOR EMPOWERMENT
## 2024-25
## What a year!
## **A YEAR IN REVIEW**
2024–25 has marked a period of growth, innovation and deepened impact for Empowerment across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. This was a year not just of expansion, but of transformation, reaffirming our mission to stand beside people, listen to their voices, and drive change within communities.
**For us, this work is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to transforming lives and communities. — Empowerment Team** L ———m ~~n~~ } i VE, Our work spans prevention, advocacy and community **LOOKING** transformation. We continue to amplify the voices of those **AHEAD** most at risk, building partnerships and shaping local strategies to keep people safe and feel like they belong.
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## We've reached out to more people than ever before...
To ensure that our support is accessible, inclusive and responsive. Our teams have worked tirelessly to meet people where they are, whether that’s in their homes, schools or community spaces. Everyone we work alongside has to feel seen and heard.
This year saw the development of several new projects detailed in this report, each designed to fill gaps in local support and respond to emerging and evolving needs. From creative wellbeing for people bereaved by suicide, to targeted campaigns in priority areas of our communities, our innovation has been driven by listening to the voices of those we serve.
We’ve also seen a rise in collaboration across services, opening new doors and building a stronger, more unified approach to Empowerment. Our wonderful staff and volunteers are leading with passion, providing compassionate and creative support, delivering standout events and conferences, securing new funding, and celebrating change and transformation every day.
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
## Growth for us means more than numbers
**It’s about stories of change and the sense of possibility and hope that we help to create.**
**With others, we are writing a new story about Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, a story of resilience and change, showing that when good people come together to help others...**
Blackpool
Advocacy Hub
li
Iliackpool
Advocacy Hub
## B **lackpool Advocacy Hub**
## Who are we?
**Blackpool Advocacy Hub provides independent, statutory advocacy to ensure that people of all ages can have their voices heard in decisions about their care, treatment and safeguarding.**
**We deliver specialist support for people navigating mental health services, health and social care processes, social care and health complaints, with dedicated provision for both adults and children.**
We have built strong relationships with partner organisations across Blackpool, increasing awareness of advocacy and telling stories of the powerful impact that advocacy can have.
We love to share best practice and influence conversations across the country within the **National Leaders in Advocacy Network** , spreading impact and taking the voices of our people with us.
> To promote the benefits of **22 networking events** advocacy, we have focussed on being present at key events: **over this year!**
These include the **Blackpool Safeguarding Conference** and a variety of awareness workshops including **domestic abuse** , **hoarding** and **self-** . **neglect**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
Our advocates amplify the voices of those we support through strategic meetings, including the Mental Health Partnership Board, Dementia Action Alliance and the Blackpool Safeguarding Adults Board.
This reinforces our place as a trusted voice in the care system, through influence and collaboration.
This year, our **Children and Young People Advocates** have continued to be a compassionate presence alongside young people who are navigating the complexities of care, safeguarding and support services.
The voices of young people need to be heard when decisions are being made that affect their lives, and our advocates are there to ensure that this happens for every child that we are with.
We are proud that our team have been instrumental in promoting the **Preparing for Adulthood** strand of Care Act Advocacy, ensuring that transitions from children’s to adult services are handled with care, attention, and driven by the voices of young people.
From family homes to care homes, from hospital wards to schools and children’s homes, our advocates have walked alongside people at all stages of life during some of their most vulnerable moments, making sure that their hopes and wishes are given the platform that they deserve.
We work with passion to challenge injustice, uphold rights, and promote dignity, ensuring that every voice is heard when it matters most.
At the heart of everything we do are the people we advocate for.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
We are proud that... Anyone receiving care under a mental health section in the **Harbour Mental Health Hospital** , has access to an advocate **within 7 days** . **590 individuals** within the Harbour have been supported by **Independent Mental Health Advocates** , ensuring empathy during a difficult and desperate time. 203 people have been supported by **Independent Mental Capacity Advocates** to be part of decisions about **fundemental changes** happening in their lives inclucing: Where they live. Their medical care. When their freedom is restricted under a Deprivation of Liberty safeguard. ~~_~~ _& **427 people** whose liberty is restricted have had trusted support, ensuring their rights are protected and they are not unlawfully deprived of freedom. Just as importntly, theys **Just as importantly,** they have had someone who visits regularly, building a connection of care and confidence. BAOXN 53 people were supported to 184BANODN people have been confidently make a complaint guided through Care Act reviews about the health care they and safeguarding processes, received. Being heard and ensuring they are fully involved in reflecting on their experiences decisions about their care and has influenced improvements for wellbeing during what is often a future patients. very vulnerable time in their lives. Ll 158 **children and young people** have bravely spoken up and taken part in meetings where decisions are made about their lives, thanks to encouragement and guidance from our **Children** . **and Young People Advocates**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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## C harlie’s story
When we met Charlie, it was clear that he was finding life challenging. With limited income, he often went hungry and didn’t have basic essentials such as warm clothing or household items. It took time for Charlie to trust us after being referred for Advocacy support under the Care Act, following previous difficult experiences with services. As Charlie opened up to us, we discovered that both his health and his financial situations were unstable. Listening to Charlie, we knew that he wanted to find hope and improve his situation, he just wasn’t sure how to do this on his own. Having an advocate by his side helped to guide Charlie to look at his health concerns, through speaking with his GP and, once tests and diagnosis were underway, he accessed hospital treatment. Unsure on how he would manage at home once well enough to return, we helped Charlie to look at options for care. Charlie was happy to be living independently once home from hospital, with a little help from a support worker as and when he needed it.
Following his return home, Charlie was finding it difficult to manage financially and, following his benefits review being declined, his situation worsened once again. Supporting him to access food banks and other local support was helpful, but not enough to ensure a long term solution. Due to the financial stress and a quick decline in Charlie’s physical and mental health, we raised a safeguarding concern with the Local Authority. Working alongside Charlie and other agencies, a decision was made for him to have a short inpatient stay in a rehabilitation unit to stabilise his health. Charlie talked to us about his worries whilst in hospital, concerned that he would be unable to manage again once he got home. We supported him to access grants for essential clothing and household items in preparation for going home, and worked with him to look at his benefit situation now that his health and needs had changed.
**Charlie is now receiving the support he needs to rebuild his life with the right people around him, and he is budgeting well now that his income is more manageable.**
_**“At the heart of everything we do is one simple truth: every person matters.”**_ - **— Blackpool Advocacy Hub**
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
## _“_ "a _**I didn’t think anyone was on**_ a _**my side.**_
> _My advocate_ My € > One _helped me speak up and now_ upeé t _things are changing.”_ – Mia, aged 12.
healthwètch
Blackpool
ealthwatch
Blackpool
## **ealthwatch** H **Blackpool**
## Who are we?
**Healthwatch Blackpool are the independent voice for health and social care. Our team exists to ensure that we hear from people who are rarely listened to.**
**We work closely with NHS leaders and decision-makers to ensure that feedback is responded to and acted upon, with the aim of improving care. Our team are also a source of reliable and trustworthy information and advice, helping people to find appropriate and timely support.**
Through heartfelt conversations, community events and coproduced projects, we’ve heard directly from people across Blackpool. Time and time again, they’ve told us what matters most to them and we’ve acted on it. We’ve seen and felt the difference that real involvement makes, not only in shaping better services, but in restoring confidence to people finding their way around health and care systems.
People have shared how their communication with health and care providers has improved and how they’ve become more aware of the services available to support them and their loved ones following guidance, reassurance and the right advice.
We have prioritised building strong local relationships this year on a foundation of a collective drive for change. Partners, including the NHS Population Health Team and Public Health Blackpool, have worked alongside our team to influence positive changes to local services, rooted in the needs of our residents.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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Listening & learning
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We listened to 3,077 local residents, using their stories to shape health care that truly reflects the needs and experiences of our community.
This has included monthly visits to **Blackpool Victoria Hospital** to engage with patients and improve care, maintaining a strong relationship with **PALS** to ensure patient voices are heard. We have worked with **Maternity Ward D** to implement feedback, such as adding reclining chairs so partners can stay overnight comfortably.
peoplec 694 people came forward to tell their stories around **menopause and perimenopause** , including **healthcare professionals** , **employers** , **loved ones** . and crucially, those **experiencing menopause**
of people felt that their work was impacted by their menopause symptoms.
of employers are facing challenges when trying to support employees experiencing menopause.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Let’s talk menopause Menopause experiences are unique to individuals ©
## Let’s talk menopause
Opening up these conversations has led to us working with large employers in Blackpool, using our **best practice guidance** , informed by lived experiences, to review menopause policies and practices and make a real change to people’s experiences for the better. Bringing people together to share menopause experiences has inspired the creation of multiple menopause **peer support groups** within our local community, providing regular support and a trusted network of friendship.
25125c4G1 people have received advice regarding local healthcare, including signposting and referrals to services to support and improve wellbeing.
**young people** have been involved in improving **LGBTQ+ education in schools** , highlighting curriculum gaps, lived experience inclusion, staff training needs and promoting supportive school environments.
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This feedback has been used to inform **Blackpool’s Sexual Health Strategy** , influencing change on a large scale for future children and young people.
In response to community concerns, we co-produced **vaping resources** and delivered a **social media campaign** across Blackpool. The campaign reached **102,000 young people** with accessible, myth-busting content to help them make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.
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For vaping
resources
click here!
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
## elly’s Story K
## **The infected blood scandal:** Finding answers and seeking justice
Kelly has now received answers regarding her late daughter, and the use of contaminated blood products.
Kelly’s daughter, Maria, passed away in the 1990’s. Maria’s passing left questions for Kelly and her family, leaving them with uncertainty around whether her death was due to the use of contaminated blood products, as Maria had suffered from Haemophilia.
Despite years without confirmation, we worked with Kelly to gain access to historic medical records. It was later confirmed, on the balance of probability, that Maria had contracted Hepatitis C from infected blood.
This brought Kelly and her family long awaited answers, as well as a sense of justice for Maria and a feeling of closure. Kelly told us that the guidance that helped her to navigate such a complex and emotional journey had always felt genuine, reassuring and compassionate, bringing comfort through what continued to be a long grieving process.
Kelly has now registered her claim with the Infected Blood team, bravely sharing the deep impact this tragedy has had on her life. In doing so, she takes an important step towards receiving the compensation and recognition she deserves. Throughout it all, we remain a steady, compassionate place she knows she can return to whenever she needs to be heard.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Priority wards
Our Priority Wards Project supports residents in specific areas of Blackpool where there are high levels of poverty and high numbers of people being admitted to hospital. Our Healthwatch Blackpool Community Engagement Team are part of the multi-agency team delivering support in the Claremont ward, working alongside clinical NHS professionals.
Nurses deliver health care support on a dedicated health bus situated in the heart of the Claremont community. A Community Matron, Occupational Therapist and Social Prescriber also deliver outreach care via telephone and face to face home visits. Our Engagement Team work in partnership with clinical staff, promoting support services and encouraging take up of the range of health promotion and wellbeing provision available locally.
The Priority Wards Project is delivered in a community-led partnership approach, building trusted relationships on the doorsteps of Claremont residents, listening to their concerns, taking action and showing genuine care and compassion. We have advocated for people and families in multi-disciplinary team meetings to ensure that they receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
## At a glance
## **Claremont Community Engagement**
Our team knocked on **576 doors** in **3 months** . 576 **174 people** answered and had conversations with our team… our team do love to talk! **55 people** benefitted from long-term support to improve their health and wellbeing 55 following those first conversations.
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The team discovered **55 residents with unmet needs** , who previously had not been receiving the appropriate support in order to live a healthy and happy life.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## obbie’s Story R When Robbie first opened his door...
When Robbie first opened his door to us he was in distress, overwhelmed by debt and deteriorating health. Robbie had faced many years being unemployed, facing multiple challenges, including unmanaged Type 1 diabetes, mental ill health and financial instability. He felt unable to properly address his health issues; fearing the worst, it seemed much easier to ignore what was going on. Financially Robbie was in a difficult place. He was in arrears with his rent and had debt piling up. He was unsure where to go to work out whether he was receiving the right benefits and lost in the process of application forms and complicated rules, he’d just given up.
We explored how life was for Robbie, listening to his worries and quickly recognising the urgency of his needs. Connecting him with the community health bus, he soon had a nurse by his side who escalated his care to hospital for diabetes care and monitoring to keep him on track.
Robbie was guided to the Citizen’s Advice Bureau for immediate support to manage his debt and rent arrears, taking the anxiety out of the situation by creating a manageable financial plan. Robbie also received advice around his benefits and is now receiving the right benefits for his current situation to make sure that he can manage life well.
Robbie is now enjoying a new volunteer role at Claremont Community Centre, tending to the gardens and enjoying being outdoors in nature. His volunteer experiences have sparked a desire to return to work once his health is stronger.
We keep in touch with Robbie, checking in and encouraging him to join activities and events that keep him motivated and positive. He enjoys being with others and having a good routine. He feels better knowing where to go for help now should life become challenging again.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
<*
fl
ealth
inequalities
engagement
## H **ealth inequalities engagement**
## Who are we?
**Our Health Inequalities projects bring together a range of initiatives designed to amplify community voices, challenge injustice and promote equality across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.**
**Working together with partners, including Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, Blackpool Council and Lancashire County Council, Empowerment ensures that lived experience sits at the heart of research, planning and service improvement.**
**Our people are not just participants, they are co-researchers, co-designers and local changemakers, shaping better systems for everyone.**
Continuing to champion the voices of resettlers and migrants locally is helping to reduce isolation, encourage inclusion and promote access to healthcare.
Many people from our community joined the ‘Picnic in the Park: Community is our Superpower’ event that we co-hosted with local partner organisations. This event unites resettled refugees, asylum seekers and the wider Blackpool community through shared food, music, games and storytelling from different cultures, encouraging feelings of belonging and togetherness.
As a valued partner within Blackpool HDRC, we have established local residents as Community Co-researchers, informing Blackpool’s research and policy decisions with lived experience.
Together we are shaping work around early years, housing, mental health, education and employment, addressing the root causes of health inequalities locally. Our community has supported multiple studies, including themes around parental mental health, creativity, exercise, and heating improvements.
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
##
The APB and LDPB have evolved to actively welcome the voices of people with lived experience and their families to input into strategy and service provision planning. Seeing people with learning disabilities and/or autism as experts by their own experience has brought inclusion to the forefront, encouraging stories to be told and creating strong foundations for working together, learning together and making systems improvements together.
Our team has led work focused on mapping services, strengthening collaboration, and amplifying lived experience across the Fylde Coast.
Through events like “You Are Not Alone” and networking forums, we have connected voluntary sector partners, clinical professionals and social prescribers to reinforce connections and communication across different service sectors, helping to make access to mental health and wellbeing support swift and targeted for our local residents.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Celebrating Togetherness
## **Picnic in the Park: Community is our Superpower**
The event brought together: 52 **local residents** _**“Seeing families share stories,**_ au ‘ _**make new connections and learn**_ 32 _**about each other was uplifting,**_ **refugees** _**creating an atmosphere of warmth and friendship. ”**_ 20 **non-refugees** Co ~~—9~~
**Thank you to Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service & Active Blackpool:**
Together we delivered fun and educational activities that promoted health, movement and community connection.
**Our Community Co-researchers have listened to 120 young people across Blackpool colleges, hearing directly about what matters most to them. What we learnt from these conversations has formed a report that will actively shape local research, championing the needs and aspirations of Blackpool’s young people.**
## **Healthy Minds Network**
77 professionals have joined our Healthy Minds networking events across the Fylde Coast. These events have brought together clinical and support organisations to develop new working relationships and improve knowledge across different teams.
- _**“The Healthy Minds Network Events have been hugely beneficial to myself. Having started in a new role within the NHS, my knowledge of community and third sector partners was very limited. The variety of partners who have attended the events has supported me to build a more comprehensive knowledge of the community and pathways for which people accessing NHS services can benefit.”**_
- *Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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The DEN
## **he DEN** T
## Who are we?
**The Den provides specialist, trauma-informed support to children and young people aged 3 years and above affected by domestic abuse. Working within schools and community settings, our dedicated team of Children’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (Children’s IDVAs) ensure that children’s voices are heard, their experiences are validated, and they are supported to feel safe, rebuild confidence and understand healthy relationships.**
**With over 16 years of experience, The Den works closely with partners, including the Police and Crime Commissioner, local education settings and social care, to break the cycle of abuse, giving children space to heal and thrive.**
## A year of growth & celebration
This year has been one of growth and celebration. We have continued to deliver our core work which is delivered over 7 sessions to children and young people, whilst also offering new opportunities for children to connect and develop through creative projects, activity days and residential trips.
## Building Resilience
Eight of our children have completed a new Recovery Toolkit programme, welcoming them to weekly sessions over a 2 month period to encourage resilience and self-esteem. It has been remarkable and exciting to see the difference in our children in such a short space of time!
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***Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.**
A **highlight** of our year was a residential trip to **The Anderton Centre** in Chorley, where **9 of our young women** explored what safety means to them through physical activity and workshops, sharing this feedback directly with local MPs and Blackpool Council.
Their bravery has sparked important conversations about public safety for girls and young women in our town, with the vision of creating more platforms for their collective voices to be listened to and influence decision-making. Although an incredibly important and often emotional topic, it was equally as important for us all to enjoy laughter and marshmallows around the campfire.
**Although just a few miles from home, it felt like a new world surrounded by nature, friendship and new experiences… not to forget the lack of sleep too!**
Our commitment has never wavered; to ensure that **every child** who experiences domestic abuse has access to the specialist, compassionate support that they deserve, when they need it, and in ways that are meaningful to them.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Making a difference 58355436586 referrals were received into The Den this year 218 children assessed as **high risk**
By coming forward and sharing their experiences, these children have helped reduce potential risks, and appropriate actions have been taken to safeguard their well-being. Hearing the experiences of our children and young people has also meant that we can advocate for them in multiagency meetings that influence what happens next for them. Often, decisions that are made within meetings can affect children for the rest of their lives, and so we never underestimate the importance of getting it right.
Each safety plan represents a child who now has the tools and confidence to stay safe if abuse happens again. These plans are 435 personalised safety not just paperwork, they are lifeplans have been created saving conversations that help with our children and children to understand who they young people. can trust and what to do if they ever feel unsafe.
23 positive activity days 2 residential trips
These days have given children who have ‘es experienced domestic abuse the chance to Children & young make new memories and to just be a child… to people enjoyed laugh, play, and build friendships; the basic activities foundations of childhood.
**68 professionals** have benefitted from training in domestic abuse awareness and the impact on children. The main focus of training has been to embed the mindset that the first contact with a child is crucial, and that first contact could be with any person that a child or young person trusts; a teacher, a youth worker, any one of us. Every person trained means that more adults across Blackpool can spot the signs of abuse earlier, respond more compassionately, and help children to access support sooner, strengthening our whole community’s response to domestic abuse.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Byron’s Story He was 6 when he came to us.
A little boy who was struggling with aggression and harmful behaviours at home. He would usually direct his anger towards his mum, biting her, calling her names and physically lashing out at her each day.
Mum, Sara, was overwhelmed trying to manage Byron’s behaviour and, at times, felt unable to cope. Through gentle conversations, Sara told us that Byron had been witness to domestic abuse in his early years. Byron’s father had been physically and verbally aggressive towards Sara when Byron was very young. Despite being just a toddler when his parents’ relationship broke down, Byron had internalised behaviours that he had been exposed to and learned that this was a way of expressing anger or distress.
Early sessions with Byron revealed that he easily became dysregulated and found it difficult to talk about his feelings. Byron’s ability to manage big emotions was limited. Being only 6 years of age and having already been through so much, he was finding daily life really hard to manage.
We focussed Byron on understanding different emotions and what to do when they arrived, even the big and difficult ones! Through positive reinforcement, age appropriate activities and practical solutions, we helped Byron to create his own toolkit for getting through the day, whatever the emotional weather.
Guiding Byron through different scenarios about the impact of emotions and how our behaviours affect others, we began to see progress in the way that he managed his response to challenging feelings. Sara also worked hard with Byron to find the right words to explore and express feelings at home, guided by the work that we were covering within sessions. When Byron’s sessions finished, Sara contacted us to say how much home life had improved, and that, even though they would continue to deal with the legacy of what had happened to them both, she felt more hopeful for the future now that they had learnt ways to manage the more demanding days.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Tell Nicole
The Tell Nicole campaign was an opportunity for children and young people to have a direct voice in shaping domestic abuse policy and practice. Through creative activities and discussions, the experiences of children and young people affected by domestic abuse were heard at the highest level nationally. We supported our group to create powerful artwork that expressed their vision of being truly heard; calling for kindness, respect and for trusted adults who specialise in delivering domestic abuse support to be around them.
This project has given a meaningful stage for young people to talk with decision-makers, understand their rights and see that their stories can influence real change. It combines creativity and empowerment, supporting our young people to build confidence, leadership and practical skills which they will take with them through life.
Two girls aged 11 and 12, and two boys aged 11 and 13, alongside their Children’s Independent Domestic Violence Advisors, presented their stories and their work in Parliament. They spoke publicly to the Domestic Abuse Commissioner’s Office and other senior parliamentary representatives, amplifying over 100 children’s voices. Our young people met Dame Nicole Jacobs, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, to share their feedback on the support they need as victims in their own right to enable them to move forwards positively in life.
##
_**“I feel like I’m helping other kids and helping adults be better at their jobs.”**_ ‘— **– Jess, Aged 11**
## At a glance
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days in London presenting to Parliament, with **4** young people speaking publicly for the first time, created powerful impact on the futures of many children and young people nationally. This visibility has positively influenced local perceptions, showing that children in Blackpool are actively shaping safer responses to domestic abuse.
## To see more click here!
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## onah’s Story J
Jonah was 11 when we met him. He felt that he had limited opportunities in life and lacked confidence, feeling too self conscious to join in with group activities or speak in front of others. In time, Jonah began building rapport with trusted staff at The Den and started to test the water by joining in with small group activities, encouraged by tailored support and gentle guidance.
With the boost of confidence that came from trying small group activities, Jonah tested out a few creative sessions for the Tell Nicole project. The group gave him a platform to start to share his lived experiences, feeling in safe hands with staff and his peers. When the opportunity came to visit London, it was a chance that he just had to take!
This trip marked many firsts for Jonah; his first time in the capital and his first time trying Chinese food, all of which he described as exciting and memorable! It was also Jonah’s first time that he had shared publicly his own experiences, something that would feel daunting for even the most seasoned public speakers.
Throughout the journey, Jonah bonded with others in the group, laughing, sharing stories and forming friendships, helping him to feel a sense of belonging.
A guided tour of Parliament was another ‘first’ experience, one filled with wonder at the scale of it all! Whilst in the Houses of Parliament, the group delivered speeches to a room full of influential decision makers, including MPs, Lords, and charity leaders who were amazed by the resilience, hope and confidence of young people who had already seen so much of life before even reaching adulthood. Though initially nervous, Jonah stood tall and spoke clearly, giving a powerful account of his life so far, and the impact of having the right support around him. This was a remarkable achievement for someone who only months before had found it overwhelming to speak amongst his peers.
Jonah described his London trip with the group as feeling part of something special and proud that he had delivered his speech so well. We are also proud; proud of the group for finding their voices, proud that they took the chance to experience the world beyond their home town, and proud to watch as they begin to shape their own and others futures.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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## **olace** S
## Who are we?
**Solace supports people and families who have been bereaved by suicide. At its core, Solace is built on lived experience, compassion, collaboration, and community.**
**Solace was created as a single point of access, ensuring that anyone in need only has to reach out once to be connected with the right support. Solace exists to remove the barriers and complexity that too often stand between people and the help they deserve.**
## Working together
Our team works in partnership with local services, organisations and businesses to create ripples of hope and ensure that the issue of suicide is given high priority across our community, workplaces, support services, and in strategic policy and planning.
**Solace is here to listen, guide and be alongside people when they need it the most. We provide individual and compassionate support for anyone affected by suicide. Solace ensures that no one faces the devastating and complex impact of suicide alone. By encouraging open conversations and tackling the entrenched stigma that suicide can carry, we create spaces where people feel safe to seek help.**
## Connection & Conversation
We hosted **‘Let’s Talk About Suicide’** conversations at our Annual Conference, spreading hope through action and sharing the powerful experiences of people affected by suicide loss.
The event brought together over **250** people, both local and national, to directly address the critical issue of suicide prevention. We also held many community events this year, including the Unite for Hope campaign for suicide prevention, a candlelight vigil and day trips with our families and their children.
10dd84 104 community groups and drop ins were held, creating meaningful connections through shared experience.
During our families darkest times, we ensured rapid access for **8** individuals to therapeutic counselling, providing time and space for them to explore what had happened and how to start to move forwards.
**A major staple of our groups and individual support conversations is the simple power of tea and biscuits, often going through two to three packets per group! That adds up to around 2,496 biscuits a year!**
## **Never underestimate the power and comfort of a brew and a biscuit in times of need.**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## ? Sonia’s story Sonia lost her daughter, Emma, to suicide in August 2024.
When Sonia’s daughter Emma died by suicide at just 29 years young while living in Scotland, Sonia wasn’t informed for 36 hours. The delay in communication and lack of accessible information left her feeling helpless and isolated at a time of unimaginable grief. With added pressures at home, Sonia was navigating profound loss with little support.
Six weeks later, Sonia reached out to Solace. She was met with compassion, practical resources through the **‘Bag for Strife** ’ scheme, and swift one to one support. This gave her a safe space to begin speaking about Emma and the trauma of suicide loss. Support was also there for Sonia through painful bereavement milestones, such as Emma’s birthday and conversations about Emma’s ashes.
Sonia joined our weekly bereavement and wellbeing groups, finding comfort in routine and connection. With flexible, trauma-informed support including fast-tracked counselling, Sonia began to rebuild. She found strength in shared experiences and began to feel less alone. After a particularly difficult day spent in hospital without support, she went to the sea, struggling deeply with her emotions, and cut her hair as a way of coping. The next morning, Sonia chose to attend a Solace family well-being day, later sharing that being there helped her find a reason to keep going.
Today, Sonia has gone back to regular volunteering and continues to be an active part of her community with others who understand. Her journey reminds us that while systems may fall short, the right support at the right time can be life-saving.
_**“You’ve saved my life. I never thought I’d get through the first few weeks, but**_ ‘— _**knowing you were there kept me going.”**_ **– Sonia**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
l Elllot's .1
Place
8iiiot's Place
## **lliot’s Place** E
## The beginning of Elliot’s Place
**From the tragic loss of Elliot Taylor to suicide, we have worked alongside his family and friends to develop Elliot’s Place, a place of hope and safety.**
Elliot’s Place provides peer support for men across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, focusing on positive mental wellbeing and tackling the shame and stigma often faced by men when talking about what’s going on for them. We use our lived experiences to help people find their own way, being alongside them to hear their experiences and challenges, reminding them that they are not alone in what can often feel like an isolating time.
We work hard to address, challenge and reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental health conversations, particularly in male-dominated environments. We are loud in our message for men to reach out and speak honestly about how life is for them.
We are proud to work in partnership with a number of local businesses, including Tyson Construction, Blackpool Skip Hire and Vinci Construction. As suicide rates are the highest in the construction industry, this work is really important to us in changing the narrative and supporting local organisations to lead the way.
Through listening to our community, we are mindful of the challenges that different times of the year can bring. Our group shared that they particularly struggle during the Christmas period. In response, our men took great joy in planning festive events that offered connection, support, and a sense of belonging during what can often be a difficult season. Simple activities, that many of us may take for granted, such as an afternoon of bowling and a Christmas meal at a local cafe, really helped to nurture early friendship and make life feel more hopeful.
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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## Finding hope & Friendship
448s399 449 men across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast have started to find hope and friendship through our peersupport approach.
##
Attendances at our community activities, including football, boxing, judo, walking, pool and snooker. Our men are keen to find connection, stay active and get involved in something new. Activities are planned by our groups, putting men in the lead for guiding their own support, creating a meaningful community to them and helping them to have happier and healthier lives.
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**Over 15,000 balls potted over the year at Elliot’s Place pool and snooker sessions… now that’s some serious play!**
Over 450 goals scored at our football sessions, building a powerful team spirit and a shared sense of excitement.
**Leaving life’s stresses and worries on the sidelines, our team comes together to be in the present, appreciating the here and now.**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## P
## ete’s Story Pete decided to take a leap of faith
Pete spotted a social media post about Elliot’s Place Pool and Snooker sessions and decided to take a leap of faith, a brave first move towards support. After finding his feet in the group, Pete took on individual peer support sessions, sharing his ongoing struggles following a devastating time in his life with his relationship breaking down and becoming homeless.
Provided with the right support and information from Elliot’s Place, Pete accessed emergency accommodation, giving him a place to call home whilst he recovered from the trauma of losing so much. This important step towards his new life gave Pete hope that he could once again find meaning and purpose. He started to develop his confidence through coming along to regular activities and peer support, finding friendship and understanding. Pete is now moving forwards at pace! He has returned to full-time work, is spending time with his children every week and creating a happy home.
What’s remarkable is that all of Pete’s progress began with something as simple as a game of pool with Elliot’s Place, a decision that he will always remember as a turning point, one that led to a better future for him and his children.
_**“Elliot’s Place really helped me when I was struggling with my mental health last year. The staff are amazing and I always felt better after meeting up with the guys. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to start living again.”**_
**- Pete**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
am Dylan
## I **am Dylan** The Inspiration Behind I Am Dylan
**Dylan Holroyd tragically lost his life to suicide at 19 years old. Dylan did not have an autism diagnosis, but his family felt he was neurodiverse and that this created a barrier preventing him from reaching out for support. We worked alongside Dylan’s family to create a peer-led support service that is inclusive for people in our community like Dylan.**
I Am Dylan is a mental wellbeing group for neurodiverse people, providing a safe, inclusive space to socialise, find friendship and peer support.
Our space and activities are welcoming and accessible, creating backdrops where people who are neurodiverse can come and be themselves, however that looks or feels; we’re ready for it! We provide drop-in sessions, walking groups and social activities, including board game sessions. These activities provide important support in a world that many neurodiverse people can find challenging to navigate.
Alongside direct support with people, I am Dylan seeks to inform and equip those who may want to pursue a diagnosis. Providing information and guidance about assessment and diagnosis pathways has helped many people make informed decisions about their next steps.
**A core aspect of the I am Dylan work is to increase awareness in other services around accessibility for people who are neurodiverse. Supporting partner agencies to adjust their approach and create more accessible services, this means that many people in our community are being met with more responsive experiences.**
Through I Am Dylan, we have continued to share our learning with professionals and just as importantly, to learn from them. These exchanges have strengthened trust and deepened our partnerships. For two individuals involved in the project, this connection has been life-changing. After building confidence through their engagement with us and knowing their needs would be understood and respected, they felt ready to take the next step. Both have now accessed counselling support and their journeys reflect the power of feeling seen, heard, and safe.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## From board games to belonging
**Over 70 people**
have benefitted from peer support at our new drop in sessions, following consultation about what would really help them to thrive. Listening to our community and providing what they ask for, means that people are finding new connections, sharing interests and finally enjoying a place that feels right for them.
board games played with smiles, laughs and moments of friendly rivalry! These sessions have become a highlight for many.
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role play sessions have been enjoyed. These sessions have given people confidence, helped them to find common ground with others, and understand the world a little bit more. This newfound confidence has also led to many meet ups outside of the support of the project, creating a wider impact of real friendship and peer support.
One person has been supported into their first employment! We feel so proud that they chose to find work within the charity sector following on from their positive experience with us... and because the charity sector is the most rewarding and supportive sector to work in, not that we are biased!
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## lex’s Story A
When Alex first attended our peer support group, they were visibly overwhelmed. As a neurodivergent person trying to cope with anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and long-term unemployment, joining a new group felt daunting. They often sat quietly, avoiding eye contact and remaining on the sidelines of conversation or activities.
## But every week they kept coming.
With perseverance, Alex began to build trust, not just with the facilitators, but with the group itself. The peer-led nature of the sessions meant that others often shared their own feelings and experiences, creating a space that felt safe, warm, and relatable. Slowly, Alex started contributing to discussions, joining in with games and even helping to set up the room.
One of our (excellent!) volunteers noticed Alex’s talent for organising and gently encouraged them to take on small responsibilities. With responsibilities came a sense of purpose and confidence which lit a fire in Alex to have self belief and know that others had faith and trust in them too. With support from the group, Alex began exploring employment options and was signposted to a local inclusive employer.
Six months after the first visit, Alex was thrilled to be in their first paid role, a job that values their strengths and accommodates their needs. They continue to attend the group — now as a confident peer supporter — offering encouragement to others who are just beginning to tell their stories.
Alex’s experience is testament to the power of peer-led spaces, where trust, consistency, and lived experience can release potential that traditional services often miss.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
ived
Experience
## L **ived Experience**
Who we are?
**Our Lived Experience Team works across Blackpool supporting people who are finding life particularly challenging due to multiple disadvantages. Our people may be facing homelessness, substance misuse, gambling issues, offending, mental health issues or domestic abuse. The complexities of trying to manage life, with such huge challenges in the mix, is often lonely and overwhelming.**
Armed with their own lived experience of difficult periods of life, our team are absolutely the best champions in being alongside others who are unable to see hope in their own situations. Bringing insight, authenticity and realism to the table, our team are skilled at building trusting and meaningful relationships with people, getting to the heart of issues quickly and guiding them through often painful journeys to find a new way in life.
This year, we proudly celebrated the launch of the new Blackpool Recovery Hub, alongside local recovery services. The Recovery Hub is a space built on hope, connection and belief that recovery is possible for everyone. Offering support for people at every stage of their recovery story, we help them to rediscover purpose, join in with activities and start to see that life is still there to be lived, and that it’s possible to live well.
The stories of **lived experience** and **recovery** , that we are privileged to have on our team, are constant sources of light and hope for the people we work alongside.
Their stories are also full of learning, with powerful and often difficult to hear chapters that serve to give professionals and organisations new ways of looking at their approaches to support.
Delivering training and workshops for professionals, including police, healthcare and social care, has brought inspiring conversations around how we can be more responsive to people in our community who are finding life unmanageable.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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Hope, action & compassion
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## **Over 100 Naloxone kits were distributed**
Naloxone (a medication that helps to combat heroin overdose) kits were distributed this year as a harm reduction tool, helping to save lives and keep our community safer.
connections and conversations with **rough sleepers** , offering **food** , **clothing** , and **referrals into support** has created a big impact for people who have no regular bed for the night.
Small acts of kindness help to rebuild trust and open new doors to support, providing hope that life can get better.
16316747473 people have accepted peer support, encouragement, meaningful activities and a reminder that change is always possible, whatever they are dealing with.
Our groups enjoyed **37 opportunities to get creative** (and a little messy!) in our art sessions. The group love to have space to express themselves together and have fun through colour and creativity.
We got our hands dirty in our gardening group, **planting 54 flowers** and shrubs that brought colour to our shared space, providing opportunities for new conversations and connections to grow.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Naomi’s Story
When we first met Naomi she was in high-risk domestic abuse relationships with multiple abusive men. Life felt chaotic, Naomi was offending, drinking heavily, using drugs, and her mental health was suffering. What life looked like every day for Naomi was unmanageable, and the risk to her life was very real.
Naomi’s peer navigator was persistent in working alongside her to find out what she was dealing with and how we could help her to stay safe in the short term, before building up trust to start working on the bigger picture.
Getting specialist domestic abuse support from Fylde Coast Women’s Aid meant that safety planning could be carried out, whilst we worked with Naomi to access drug and alcohol assessments and focus on housing. Naomi was admitted to hospital and went through a medically managed detox programme with our team beside her for support. Once discharged from hospital, we kept support around Naomi to help her to remain sober and drug free, creating a positive routine of activities to start the long road of rehabilitation. Naomi embraced support and was ready to see life through a different lens; she was committed to living life well.
After a challenging time breaking free from all that had been holding her back, Naomi felt encouraged that perpetrators of her abuse were arrested and charged, signalling a new phase for her. She also felt stronger following support from Women’s Aid and our team around future relationships. Naomi is now back in education, has made a new home, and started part time employment. She is in the early stages of building back her relationships with her son and mother, hopeful that she has brighter times ahead with them both now that she is sober, drug free and can see a better future.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
The Power of
Community
## **Why we are** different
If you want to know the definition of culture, it’s often known as 'the way that we do things around here' Walk into any organisation and you can soon pick up the vibe, get a feel for the personality of the place and sense the unwritten rules… and **Empowerment is no different.**
## **The way that we do things around here;**
We’re **open to change** , we **welcome ideas** and **new ways of doing things** . We’re not the kind of place where you will hear ‘well that’s the way we’ve always done it’, as we love to look at everything from different angles, through different lenses and with a curious mind. It’s often the case that the ‘how’ we do things is more impactful than the ‘what’ we do, leaving people with a legacy of hope, kindness and genuine care, long after our work is done.
## Kindness
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Hope
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Care
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
**Being with people in our communities, we are met every day with new stories, new takes on life and new challenges.**
## Armed with a shield of strong values
**We stand alongside people, encouraging them to lead the support that they need and be the narrators in their own lives.**
We like to do things differently, to be **‘with’** people rather than **‘do to’** them – we don’t push from behind or pull from the front, we’re right by their side instead. We often can’t take away the pain that people are feeling in the moment, but what we can do is pull up a chair and sit with them in whatever they are dealing with - these are the kind of actions that speak far more loudly than words.
**Working in this way means that we truly hear what is happening in our communities broadly, and to people directly. This gives us a privileged vantage point to see where there are gaps in provision, the issues that are emerging, and how the needs of the people we serve are evolving. It is with this unique position that we are able to collaborate with other organisations and decision makers to highlight what is on the horizon and seek to meet needs early with a responsive approach.**
## **We also love a good question…** We also love a g osd question…dsgddff we enjoy
asking the **‘so what?’** about everything that we do. We need to see, hear and understand the impact that is felt when our community take the time to share their story with us and ask for our support.
## In summary...
The way that we do things around here is, well, **changeable** ! We don’t get too comfortable… we flex, we bend, we work with what we’ve got and what we’re presented with, using our values as our guide.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## **oices of our** V **com**
_“I am in a much better place now. I am now in a position to get back into work. I am feeling much better.”_
_I'm blessed and grateful to be in a good place week by week and Elliot’s Place has a big part to play in that."_
_“The group sessions offer so much comfort, as everyone is going through the same emotions and stages. We can cry, laugh, and share thoughts with no judgement. It's my safe place.”_
_"Elliot's Place to me has been amazing! I've been coming to sports and drop in sessions. I’ve also had one to one sessions. Having these sessions each week keeps me busy, I get loads of exercise and fill my time with positive experiences which has been ideal for me… to keep me motivated, to stay positive and keep moving forward. Big thank you to all you do guys, it’s really very appreciated."_
_“If this organisation didn't exist, I don't know where I would be. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”_
_“The pain I feel has never been diminished, I have never been told that time will heal the pain and for that I am truly grateful.”_
_“Attending the first suicide bereavement group was daunting but helpful. To see that survival is possible, although painful, was a beacon of hope for myself. Just knowing I'm not alone in all this is probably the most helpful thing.”_
_“Thank you so much for such a wonderful day! My daughter was so absolutely happy, her eyes were glowing the whole time!” “My journey with you and Solace has only just begun, but from day 1, which was 8 weeks ago, I have felt heard and understood.”_
## **Big wins & little** victories Reclaim The Night
To mark the **16 days of Activism** , we took to the streets for the third year running, alongside partner organisations, to make a stand against Violence Against Women and Girls.
In November 2024, we gathered over **100 peaceful protestors** , chanting loudly and proudly through the wind and rain about how important it is for our streets to be safer, campaigning for the rights of women and girls to feel safe in **our town** .
With backing from Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw, these events raise awareness, prevent violence, and strengthen local partnerships to protect and empower women and girls. Every girl and woman deserves to feel safe walking home, free from harassment, abuse, and intimidation. As a collective, we can change this and continue to promote positive messages through the work of our Den Project.
## Christmas
Christmas can be a challenging time for so many families in our community. Thanks to the kindness of people who donated to Cash for Kids, 407 of our children were gifted presents for Christmas. Primark also provided Christmas Eve boxes for 25 families and the Salvation Army provided gifts for 26 of our children and young people. In total, with the help of individual donors and local businesses, **over 800 presents were given to** . **children and young people locally**
Helping our children and families to make positive memories of Christmas has been possible thanks to the generosity of people and businesses who really care.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## We are leaders in safeguarding
Taking part in the Leaders in Safeguarding Award process gave us the opportunity to **reflect on** and **strengthen our practice** , to ensure that we are working to the highest standards. Providing a **safe environment** for those who we support really matters. Feeling safe often provides the right environment for someone to tell their story for the first time, a privilege that we never take for granted when someone chooses to put their story in our hands.
The award process has brought a spotlight to **our safeguarding culture** , giving us the opportunity to see things differently. It has also ensured that we are fully compliant with the latest standards and legislation, **improving the confidence** of our staff and leaders when raising concerns.
The process of working towards the Leaders in Safeguarding Award has been a fantastic opportunity to **learn** , **improve** and **be supported** in developing our safeguarding culture and practice. Being at the top of our game in safeguarding practice means that we can keep our community safe, be curious about what life looks like for them, and respond in the right way to concerns and risks. So many people in our community are experiencing and trying to deal with unmanageable situations that they carry with them every day. Walking through the doors of Empowerment means that good conversations can be had to keep them safe from harm.
**This award is not about the shiny plaque on the door, or the logo on our website, it’s about what happens in real life, every day, for our staff and the in our people community.**
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## The ripple effect
We are proud of the counselling support provided to both our workforce and members of our community who are accessing our support services. Counselling support is available to our community, volunteers and staff with low to no waiting time, with a pool of private counsellors ready to get to work!
**57 hours of bereavement counselling** has been provided to people in our community this year. Timely support around bereavement is essential in creating the best impact for people, and this service has prevented long waits for the right support.
Team wellbeing is really important to us… if our staff aren’t feeling fabulous then we’re not in a good place to deliver the exceptional service that we’re known for! That is why our counselling service is available for our team, and we’re pleased to know that **this year over 30% of our workforce benefitted from 214 hours of counselling support** . We’ve done the maths, and this works out at around 36 staff attending 6 sessions of support, helping us to continue our vital work in the community and reducing staff absence.
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
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The First:
Lancashire Suicide Prevention Conference
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Suicide is a word that you hope will never touch your family and friends. Sadly, for many of us, it’s more than just a word, it’s a bomb that went off in life. The work of Solace is rooted in lived experiences of the aftermath of suicide and all that comes along with it. So, who better to co-host Lancashire’s first Suicide Prevention Conference than our team and the voices of those who have been supported by Solace. With over 250 attendees, and so many more who will have been touched by stories taken from the room that day, we can say that out of something so devastating can come some positives of learning and hope.
Alongside the impact of the conference also came the opportunity to directly influence the Blackpool Suicide Prevention Strategy, which sets out to;
- Improve mental health awareness and reduce stigma.
- Ensure collaboration across the partnership and Blackpool communities. Support anyone affected by suicide.
- Build suicide safer communities.
Being able to actively shape decisions and actions that will impact our community for the better has brought comfort for families finding their way through their own experiences of suicide.
## Self Advocacy
We launched our Health Complaints clinic, promoting self-advocacy through regular drop in sessions open to anyone needing guidance around making an NHS health complaint. Sessions have helped to empower local people to take ownership over their own lives and share their experiences with local services confidently.
One of our advocates has taken the lead in growing our Speak Out group, a self-advocacy forum for adults in Blackpool with a learning disability. We have joined with local services to influence the design of support leaflets and provide feedback on annual health checks. Whilst using our group’s voices to advocate for positive change, our Speak Out group also enjoy building friendships, playing quiz games and eating biscuits, of course!
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*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## The Ultimate Researchers
We have been excited to co-create a Youth Advisory Board of young people with lived experience, along with the University of Lancashire. The group are the youngest Youth Advisory board in the country and they’re fired up and ready to change the world! We are loving their confidence and enthusiasm, but mainly we are loving the name that they have chosen for themselves… The Smarties! We’re sure that they’ll make a splash, make their voices heard, bring fresh perspectives and become the changemakers that our children and young people need. Using their own experiences of domestic abuse will be really powerful in influencing the design, delivery and implementation of new services for children and young people.
## Healthwatch
We have been fundamental in co-designing the CQC (Care Quality Commission) Self-Assessment and Improvement Framework. This resource has been created to support the NHS in reducing health inequalities by improving the way they engage and communicate with communities.
We were visited by Professor David Croisdale-Appleby, the National Chair of Healthwatch England and Non-executive Director of the CQC. We had the most incredible day, showcasing all of the amazing work that our team do, day in, day out!
## **We wanted to share with you a few comments from David:**
_**“Your vaping work has been so influential, I have heard more from ministers and members of parliament about your vaping research than any other and it’s seen as one of the most reliable pieces of evidence we have in this country.”**_
_**“Let’s do things the Healthwatch Blackpool way! I can feel the energy and passion from you all!”**_
**59**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Footballing fun!
We were delighted to be chosen as the charity partner of the Fenlon Football Fun day. We worked with Blackpool Counsellor, Mel Fenlon, to deliver this annual family tournament in tribute to her son, George Fenlon, who sadly passed away in November 2023. We welcomed a huge crowd of supporters who enjoyed cheering on the football teams, taking part in family activities and fundraising for Empowerment. A total of £££? was raised to support our work with families affected by bereavement.
## Influencing Social Care practice
We are proud to be part of the Local Authority Learning Circle training programme. Through the programme, we regularly support newly qualified Social Workers in the first 12 months of their practice to understand the role of advocacy and the importance of genuinely listening to the people they support. Being able to influence new Social Workers early in their careers is a unique opportunity to embed the mindset of powerful conversations, and bring an awareness of the role of advocacy services to professionals who meet people that will benefit from our support every day.
## What about the dads?!
As part of our Advocacy support, Dad’s Place has provided a welcoming space for dads of all ages to share the ups and downs of parenthood and find support around stress and mental health. This inclusive group has helped dads to feel seen, celebrated and empowered as they share both the challenges and the joys of being a parent.
**60**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## So... What’s next?
**Because it** _**Matters**_ h
## **Empowerment cannot stand still, there is always** more to do.
While it’s important to reflect on our collective achievements, we must not sit back. The needs of our community are evolving, and our commitment to listening and responding must remain unwavering.
Every day, we hear stories from people in our local community who are struggling to live their lives well and without the support they deserve. Their voices guide our mission, shape our priorities and fuel us to keep building the right services alongside people.
## **In the coming year,**
Empowerment will build on its existing services with a renewed focus on supporting the **Armed Forces** community, people living with **dementia** , and expanding our successful **priority community areas** ‘door-knocking’ approach, where we meet people where they are.
We are also very excited to be hosting the first leg in Blackpool of the nationwide **Baton of Hope Tour 2025** for suicide prevention and awareness. Suicide is a huge issue for our local community, and we will be championing our ‘reaching in’ approach, changing the narrative and challenging the stigma surrounding suicide.
Our work continues: meeting people where they are, on their terms. Our society has too often abandoned its most vulnerable... those who feel forgotten. At Empowerment, our residents are our priority. **Their voices, their needs, and their potential will remain at the heart of everything we do.**
We know that there is still so much to be done. The challenges are real, but so is our resolve and hope. Together, with kindness and determination, we will continue to push boundaries, challenge injustice, and create spaces where everyone has the opportunity to live life well.
**63**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## **Final sign off from our** CEO
To every member of our incredible staff and each dedicated volunteer - Thank you!
Your passion, resilience, and unwavering belief that change is possible have brought hope to thousands across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. You’ve shown, time and again, that this is more than just a job, it’s a calling. It’s a commitment to stand beside those who need us most, to listen without judgment, and to act with compassion and courage.
This year, we’ve seen more lives transformed. We’ve witnessed individuals rediscover their voice, people kept safe and well, and those who had been written off by everyone else, discover their dignity and unique potential. None of this would have been possible without the collective heartbeat of Empowerment - you.
In a world that can often feel uncertain, you have been a constant source of light and hope. You’ve reminded us all that change is possible, that dignity matters, and that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.
As we look ahead, let’s carry this momentum forward. Let’s continue to challenge injustice, amplify unheard voices, and build a future where everyone has the opportunity not just to survive - but to thrive.
With deepest gratitude and pride,
## Mike Crowther
**64**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
To: Our Funders Lives wouldn’t change without … **you** Thank you! q From: Empowerment Team **BBC Children in Need Beaverbrooks Charitable Trust Blackpool and Central PCN Blackpool Better Start Partnership Blackpool Coastal Housing Blackpool Council Blackpool North PCN BoingBoing Foundation Department for Health and Social Care Domestic Abuse Commissioner FCMS Fylde Council Bereavement Services Garfield Weston Healthwatch Blackburn with Darwen HM Prison & Probation Service National Voices NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire Porticus Renaissance UK Skipton Charitable Foundation Spring North Swire Charitable Foundation The Masonic Charitable Foundation The National Lottery Community Fund The Rank Foundation The Streetlife Trust Tudor Trust University of Lancashire University of Liverpool**
**65**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
## Finances
**At the time of publication, the statutory accounts for Empowerment Charity Lancashire have been produced.**
## **Funding summary**
## **Income**
£2,469,126
**Expenditure** £2,451,465
We are entirely dependent upon the amazing generosity of our funders. Without them, not one life would be changed...
## **Total Reserves** £466,528
**Unrestricted general funds** £424,587
**Restricted funds** £25,876
**Designated funds** £16,065
**66**
*Names in stories have been changed to preserve privacy of the people we work alongside, but the content, voices and impact are very real and important in understanding the value of the right support at the right time.
The Empowerment Base, 333 Bispham Road, Bispham, Blackpool, FY2 0HH
## Email:
admin@empowermentcharity.org.uk
## Website:
www.empowermentcharity.org.uk
Telephone: 0300 32 32 100
**Registered Charity Number: 1155897**
REGISTERLD CHARITY NUMBCI R: 1155897
REPORT OF THE TRUSI'EES AND
AUDITED FIIYANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31STMARCH 2Q25
FOR
EMPOWCRMENT CHARITY LANCASHtRE CI
Cliampion A¢¢owitants LLP
7-9 Siaiion Road
H&skeil) Bank
Preston
Lanushire
PR4 6SN
EMPOWERMENT CJIARITY LANCASHIRF. CIO
CONTf,NTS OF THE filNATr4CIAL STA TLJMENTS
roR I'HE YEAR LNDED 31ST IIqARCH 2025
Page
Repoi't of tlle Trustees
Audit
5 to 6
Statement of FirtgnciAI Actlvitles
Balance Sheet
Cash Flow Statenlcnt
oles to the Cash Floiv Sta¢ement
10
Notes to the Fljiaiicial StAtements
Det8iled Stalement of financial Aetivlties
F.MPOIVERMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
REPORT or THE TRUSTEES
FOR THF, I'EAR EP4DED 31ST MARCTrI 2025
Tlic trustees present their report witli Ilie financial slatemei)Is of llie ehaii(y for ihc year ended 3 Isl Mairli 2025. Tl)e
ti'ustees have adopted Il)e provisions ot Accounting and ReIting by Charities.. Statcment of Recominended Pi'aciice
applicable to cliat'Élie5 piri)aring tlicir aecowits accordance with Ilie Financial Reporting Siandard applicable in the UK
and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (cffeclive l January 2019).
OIIJLCTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objecilves Aiid ainis
Tlie objcclives of Ilic charity are to'.-
Proinole, support Éuid provide advocacy seNices or i'epresentstion SeIc&S as a ineans by ivhicli people disadvantaged by
disability, illness, age or social exclusion can t))akc known their needs and wishes in oyder to obtain appropi'iate 8ervi¢es,
and so in¢i'ease Iheii. quality of life. and
To ediitate he&lili and social care servicc provideis and the cominunity in geiieral as lo tl)e difficulties for disadvaiitsged
pcaple to exprcss tliemselves,. and
To I'elieve the distress and suff¢rit]g experienced by any individual or family wlio 'e or havc been vlclims of domestic
abLlSe.
Publi¢ benLfit
Tlie TIusl¢cs nf the cl)ai'ily COI)fimi that Ih¢y have ex¢rcised their powers of duty to e115ure that tlie objects of Ilic charity
al'e i)erfoi'ined for the benefit of Ilie public and conii)ly willi the Chgrity Comimission guidance on publi¢ benefit.
ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE
ChArltRbl¢ actlvltles
Tlie maiii SOULCCS of in¢oine during tl)e year were Blackpool Couiicil. Blackpool Public Health, National Lotleiy
Coiiiinuiiity Fund, BBC Childrcn in Nced. Tudor Tiust. Masoiiic Cliarilablc Trusi. Lancashii'e and Souili Cuinbria ICB
aiid (lie Police and Crinle Cortin)issioner. Tlie liiistees would like to thank ilicin and all o(hei' fund¢rs foi. their 511pporL
over Ilie year.
Tl)e obj¢ctives of thc Charity conlinue be achieved Ihmugh Ihc provision of servi¢¢s. A delailed report of the Cl)arity's
aclivilies ill&y be obioined by writing lo the Cliarity ol tlie principal address.
buiidJ'Ri3lnE aCtIlIeS
DLlI'ing Ihe yeai. fundraising Activities were held for specific purposes. These arc aceounted for separately on Il)e
SOFA.
tINANCIALREVIKW
FlnAiiclal posltlon
Tlie nel Siiipliis during the y¢g1' ended 31 Marcli 2025, after accounting foi. all recogniscd gAins and losses, was £17.661
{2024 - £73,640).
Dui'iiig tlie year du¢ to a combinalioii of plantted etTicicncy savings and a signifieaiit iiicreuse in income, meant tl)at Ilie
orgnnis&lioii was ablc to delivcr a siirplus foi. the organisalion.
liivestrnent pollcy and objectlves
Tli¢ Ti'uslees conli'ol and approvc all iniporlant fmancial transaclions.
Thc Charity docs nol hold any inv¢stments aiid keeps its funds in UK bank accounts.
Pagc I
F.MPOWERMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
REPORT OF I'HE TRIJ.STEES
FOR THE YEAR ENDF.D 31ST MARCH 2025
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Resei'ves pollcy
Under Ilie i'equiremcnls of Charity Law. tlie Trustees arc tibliged to defitte ihe Cliarity's policy for l)oldii)ky rescnies.
Tl)e intention in establishing tl)is i'eseives policy is lo cnsiii'e the continuaiion of ilie Charity's activities. Tlic i)olicy will
enablc Ili¢ Cliarity to Inccl ils legal objects, pi'uvide corbfidcnee lo suppoitcrs and donors seeking lo give financial supporL
to a piiideiitly conli'olled cliai'ily and to cn.qui'e that the reserves are 81 & level sufficient to discharge all of Ilie Clia]'ity'8
obligations in Ilie evcnt Iliai li sliould ceasc its operdtioiis.
li is estimated tliat these Costs ivill be ai leasl 3 monihs. Tlie policy is tlierefore lo hold al least 3 and no inore Ilian 6
Iiiontlis, unrestricted direct cliai'ilable expenditui'e in reseive. Unr£8tricted generp&l funds at Ilie ye81'_¢nd ai)iounied to
£424,587 (2024.. £401,420) wl)ich Approximates lo 2.5 months ¢osts for Empowei'ment continuiiig the sainc rang¢ of
a¢Livitics. Tlie ti'ustces believe Il)at tliis Icvel of rescivcs is sufficient to ensurc Ili¢ cliarity can continue effectively and
d¢velop fu11her pmjects lo improve thc Advocacy and othei. seivices provided.
To maintain 8ppwoprialc levels of reyrves, the Truslees have del¢rmincd tliat:
all donations, wliicli liAve no rcslriclion placed upon ilicn) by ihe Icrms oftlie donalion. are considered lo b¢
gcnei'al i'eserves.
capital con)niilmeiil$ &rtd expenditure plans al'e revieived periodically and Il)e ndS required lo finbn¢e such bc
i'emoved fi'oiii genernl i'eserves as necessaiy foi. the altsinmenl of ils bmad objects.
Fui)ds may, froni lime to lime, be designated for specific puw. Designated fun¢ts are those unrestriclcd funds which
liav¢ b¢en sel aside by Truslecs for an esscnlial sp¢nd or fulurt purpose. Ful]er inforinalion can be found in nol¢ 14 10 Ilic
accouiits.
ri UTURE PLAN.S
Tlie future plans foi. the Charity are as follows..
To sc¢iii'e fiinding for existing proje¢ls.
To source funding for additio11 crealive and innovative projects.
To cnliaiice and dcvelop Quality Assiirance.
I"0 ei)sui'e that local pcople shape aiid devclop all service delivery.
To place lived experience and co-prodiiclion al tlie heart ofall or8antsalioiial developnient.
To addiyss deeply and entreiiched h¢alth inequalities in our I] comniwlilies.
STRUCTURE, GOVF.RNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing docuiiiciit
The Cliai'ily is controlled by its goveining docunienl, a deed of tnist. and constitutes a ¢l)2ritable incorpni'ated
organisalion.
Tlie Executive Committ¢¢ of the Cliai'ity are its Truslees for the purpose of cl)arity law. Under tlic constitution the
Execiilive al'e electcd xt the Aniiu81 g¢n¢ral ii)eelin8. At ilie AGM, on¢ third of tlic Bogrd or. if11)eii' nurnber is not tliitc
oi. a niultiijle of three, tlie nearest number to one thii'd Ihusi reiirc froin office. If there is only one Board Inember he or
shc Inust retii'e. Tlie Board to itlire by rolalion sliall be thosc who have b¢en longest in otyice since their last appointmenl.
Tlie policies al'e d¢terniiiied by the tn]stecs. Regular lrnstee meetings are held to inonitor and siipervise th¢ day lo day
operalions of the Charity.
Pagc 2
EMPOWERMENT CHARITY LANCASHtRE CIO
REI PORT OF THCI TRUSTF.ES
IOR THE YF.AR ENDED 31ST fvIARCII 2Q2S
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Ti'ustees, Appi-eciatloii
Eacli yeai. Einpowerment benefits fi-om tlie generosity of those people and organisations who supporl the Charity and
Éliosc who niakc individual donations. The Isle¢S wisli to cxiend fheir gi'atilude lo Ihe individuol donors and volunteer5
for their siipport foi. Ihe chai'ity.
Recrultrnent Mnd Appointineiit of neiv Trv$tees
In the event of a vae8ftey, Ihc existing men)bers may co-opt new Imslecs irt accordance to the Charities Governing
docuiment being sii¢h persons as tliey think fit as 6eing in sympailiy witl) tlie objectives of the organisation. A peison
Jnusl be nominated by one of the Irust¢es and a bgllot iaken by Ille whole mcnibcrship - adinission is deTemiincd by tliis
vole.
Trnslecs are s¢le¢led fioni individuals iviih approi)ri&ie expericijcc and knowledge. The induclion and training of trustees
is ui)dei'laken by Ilie other members of tlie Executive Coinmittee.
Oi%aiilsotloiisl Structure
T]ic Executive Coiiiinillee, (the Board of TIu51ees) shall consist of not less than 3 meitibetsbul not moi'¢ ilian12 nieii)bcis,
wlio ineet not less Ilian evel'y quartci. bui usually once every 2 monilis io adniini$ier ihe cl)arity. A el)ief execulive is
ppointed by the (nist¢¢s with de5c¥aled responsibility foi. Ihe Inanagn¢nl of tli¢ organisalion.
Risk Assessment
i'lie rrnslees l)aipe aduly lo identify and review the risks to which Ilie cliarity is exposed and to ensure
ppiopriate controls al'e in place lo provide reasonabl¢ assiirnnee against fraud and error.
Tlie tjiistees l)ave inli'oduced 8 fonnal risk n)anageiiient proce&8 io assetss ihe risk to which cl1.111¢$ 81.¢ exposed to gnd
risk mani1geineiit sti'ftlegies. This involves idenlifyii)8 typcs of risk the charity faces. pi'ioi'ilising 11)eiii in tei'in& of potei)lial
iinpAct aiid tlie Ilkeliliood uf oecurrence ai)d identifying ineans of iniligaling tl)¢ risks. The I"isk policy eoi)linues to b¢
I'eiJi¢wed al least every 12 nionths. Iiilernal risks are i)iiniiiiised by Ili¢ finai)¢ial contsDls in)poscd in i'especl of ¢l)e
io¢¢dui'es fot. the autliori5alion of all (ransactions and projects.
'ri)e (rustccs maiiilain a elose control on tlie day-1041oy opei'ation of the charity in iespecl of its activilies. The
Clidl'ity lias ali appi'oved Hcalili and Safety policy.
RF,FF.RINCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAJiS
Registei'ed Cliartsty numbei.
1155897
Pi'liiclpal addl'es
333 Bisphain Road
Bi5pliatii
Blackpool
FY2 OHH
Trustees
Ms S Turner
Ms S Bilsboirow Chair
Mr A Flelcl)er
M8 R Fasil)am Vice Chair
Mr G HoldcJk
Mi. C Kl)ajiiria
Ms L Owen
Miss E Hattison (Resigned 2310512024)
Ms B Sinitli (Appointed 24A)612024)
Page 3
EMPOWERMENT CHAIUTY LANCASHIRE CIO
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEFS
FOR TEIF. YEAR EIYDED 31ST hlARCH 202S
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Auditor
Peiei. Biick
FCA DChA
Chaillpion Accoiintants LLP
7-9 .Slation Road
Heskeili Bank
Pi'eston
Lancasliiit
PR4 6SN
Bankei's
CAF Bank LTinited
25 Kings Hill Avcnue
Kings Hill
Wesl Malling
Kciit
FY2 OHH
riag51one
1$1 Flaoi., Clartville Hou3¢
26-27 Oxendon Sireel
London
SWIY4EL
l(LI Y MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
Durii)g tli¢ year Il)e Tiiisle&s delegated responsibility for the day-t041ay managcmeiit of the charity to the following
seniur employee8'.
Mike Crowiher, Louise Goldstone, Nicola Plufftib, Kevin GI0p, Kei'ric Fawceti, Beih Martin. Saiii Hai'i'ison, Amy
Builei. and Abi Lee.
AppiDved by ol'der of the board of trustees on.....
. and signed on its bclialf by..
S Bilsborrow- Cliair
Page 4
AUDIT RF.PORT TO THE TRUSTf.ES OF
EMPOWERMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
Oplnlon
We have alidited the financial slalei))ents of Empowetinent Charity Lancashire CJO (Ilie charity,) and its subsidiaries
(the '8ioup') for the year ended 31 sl Mai'cli 2025 which compi'ise the Siatcillent of Finllncial Activilic5, tlie Balance
Sheet, Ihe Cash Flow Statcment and notes Ilie finai)cial slalemenls, incliLdiiig a summaiy of significant accouiitino
poli¢ics. Tlie fiiiancial iepoitiug framework t])at has bec¥k applied in their prcparation is applicable law and Uniled
Kin0doi Accounting Standards (United Kingdoiii Generally Accepled Aecounliiig Practice).
In our opinion Ilie financial slxteinents:
give a li'iie aiid fail. view of Ihc blate of th¢ charity's affairs as al 31 st March 20?5 and of its iiiconiii)g resources and
application of i'esoui'ces, inclllding its incon)e and expcndilure, foi. ilie yeai. then ct)ded-
Ilove beeii i)I'operly pi'eparcd in accordance willi United Kingdoni Gen¢rdlly Accepted Aecounting Pi'acttce- and
)ave bcen pi'epared in COrdancC with th¢ requiren)ents of the Lomphnies Act 2(6.
Basls for oplnloD
We conducted oiii. aiidit in accoi'dance will) Inlemational Siandards oli Auditiiig (UK) (ISAS (UK)) and pplicable
law. Oui. Ksponsibiliti¢s under Ihos¢ standards are further described in tl)e Auditois. i'esponsibilities for the audit of
Il)e financial slatciiients s¢clion of our rcporl. We are indcp¢ndenL of Ihc u'oup in accordance witli Ilie ctliical
r¢quiitinenls tha¢ are i'elevanl to our audit of the financial slaten)eiits in ihc UK. in¢lLiding the FRC'S Eiliical Siandai'd,
and w¢ have fulfillcd oui. oilier etl)ical re5ponsibililies in accordailcc wilh ihese requii'einenls. We believe that Ili¢
audit evidencc l)ave obtained is sufficient and appropi'iate to provide a basis for oui. Lipinion.
Conclusions I'elAling to 2olng ¢oiicern
We liave nothi118 to i¢port in respcct of the following mllttt iii relotion to whicli th¢ ISAS (UK) require us to report
lo you ivlicre,,
the Iiuslccs, use of the goin8 concei basis of accouiilin8 in the pi'eparalion of the financial 81ateniei)18 is not
approi)i'iale' or
Ilie trustees havc not disclosed in the fiiiancial slaieii)¢nls any idet](ified material uiicei'tainties il)al May ¢08t
Significant daiibl 8boLiI Ilie cl)arity's 8biliiy lo cunliniic lo adopt (he goii)bF concern hasis of a¢¢ounling for a period of
al least Iwelve iiionihs from tli¢ dale when ihe financi21 slaLe)ncn15 auihorisd for issuc.
Otlier ijifoymatloii
The trustees arc rCl)Ut)$1blc for the oil)er infornialiort. Tl)e othcr infomialioi) cuiy)pi'iscs the infunmaiioii includcd in
Ilie Anniial Report. other than Ihe financial statements and our Reit of the IndcpendenL Auditors Ihereon.
Oiii. opinion ()n the financial siateni¢nls does nol cover tlie oihei. inforn)aiion and, excepl to Ilie exlenl oilienvise
explicitly slated ift our repoil, we do not express any fonn of 885uraii¢e coii¢lusion tliu¢on.
111 connection with oui. audit of the financial stotem¢nls, our rcspoiisibility Is lo read (he other infoimatlOi1 aiid, iii
doin8 so. considei. wlieilier the otlier infornjalion is imalcrially in¢oiisislenl with tlie financial staleincnls oi. oui.
kiiowledge obiaiiied iii Ilic aiidil or othenvis¢ hppeai's lo be Inaleiially missiated. If we identify siich Thalei'ial
inconsisteneies oi. appArent material niissialeinenls. we are requiiEd to dct¢rniine wlicilier there is A inalei'ial
Ini.qstatement in Ilie finaneial stal¢menls or a material niissiatemenl or the oiher infoiinatioi). If, based on Ilie work
we liave perfoimed. we conclude Illat iliere is u malerial misstatenient of t]iis othei. infoiination, wc al'e i'equii'ed to
I'eport Ilial fact. We Iiave noiliirtg lo report in Il)is regard.
Opliilons on otlier mAtters pi'eseribed by tlie Companies Act 2006
In our opinion, based on Ihc work Lindei'lAken in tlie couisc of the audit:
tl)e infornixlion given in thc Report of the Trustccs for the financial year for which the financial staleiiients al'e
prei)ared is con.%isteilt with the finaiicial Sthleinents. and
tlie Repoi't of the TIsleeS lia5 bcen prcpai'ed in accordance with applicable Icg81 wuii'enicnts.
Page 5
Matteys Ivhleh Ive arc required to repo&* by exccption
In the light of the knowledge and ui)derststKlii)g of the charity and its environmentobtained in the course of tlic aiidil, we
Iiave nol identified nuterial inisstatemenls in Ihe Report of the Trusiees.
We l)ave i)otliing to i'epoit iii respeci of ilie following mattcrs whei'e the Companies Act 2[16 requires us to report to yoii
if, 1]) our opinion..
- adequate aecounling I'ecoi'ds have not been kept by thc charity. or rctuins adequate for oui. uudit have
not been I'eceived froni braiiches not visited by us. or
Ilie financial siaiemenls are not in agrccinent with die a¢coifflling records aiid returns,.
cei't8in disclosures ot Irusiees, reniuneralion specified by laiv arc not niade. or
we have not received all the infoiThalion and explanations we requii'e for our audit.
Respthnslbllltles of ti'ustees
As explaincd mol'e fully in Il)¢ Siaiemenl of Trustees, Responsibilities, Ihe Iivstees arc responsible for Ilie p2'eparatioi) of
tlie financial statcmenls and for being satisfied that they give ll tDJe and fair view. and for sucl) inteinal c4)nlrol as tlie
li'uslees deteriniiie is nece.4s21'y to eiiable Ilie preparation of financi81 slaleniciils tl)at al'e fl'ee froiii nialerial tlllSStalen)eiil,
wliether duc lo traud or eii'or.
In piep8riiig ilie financial stalem¢n15. the INslecs are responsible foi. ass¢ing the churity's ability lo continii¢ as a going
coii¢ern. disclosing, as ai)plicable, matters relal¢d lo going ¢oncem and using the going coijcern basib of accounliiig
iinless Ilie Inislees eillicr intend 10 liquidate Ilie charity or lo cease operniions, or have no realistic aliei'naiive but io do so.
Our I'e$ponslbllltles far the audlt of tlie nnai)¢lwl stfvlements
Oui. objectiV¢S 81'e to obtain reasonable Bssurdncc about wl)eiher thc financial staleinents as a whole aiE free fron) matei'ial
Inisslalen)enl, wlietlici. dLlC lo fi?Iid or error, and lo issue a Report of ilic Indcpcnden¢ Auditors tlillt includes oiii. opinioii.
Reasonable assurancc is a liigh level of assurnI)ce' biit is not a guai'anlec that an audit conduclcd iii accordance willi ISAS
(UK) Ivill always delect a Inaterial missla(cinenl wlien it exisls. Misslateiiienls can arise fiom fraud or ein)r and are
considered Iiiaterial if, ii)dividvally or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be ¢xpeeled lo influence [11¢ econoii)ic
de¢i8ions ofusei'5 taken on the basis of these f8¢181 statenienls.
A fiirihcr de.su'iplion of oiir I'esponstbilitics fnr the audit of the financi81 sta¢¢ni¢iil8 is located oli Ilie Fiii&neial Repoiting
Council'.s website at www.frc.01.8.uklaudiiorsresponsibililies. This desci'iption forn)s par( of our Rep)i'¢ of Ilie
Indcpend¢nl Auditors.
Use of oui. report
This Irpoil is made solely lo th¢ cliarity's members, as a body. in accoi'dance witl) Clpte1. J of Part 16 of the Companies
Acl 2006. Our audil ivork lias been uiidertakcn so Ilial w¢ Iniglit stale lo 1C cliarithble mernbers Iliose Inaltei's we al'e
I'¢quit'¢d 10 51at¢ to Ilieit) li) an auditors. report aiid foi. no otl)ei' piirpose. To the fullest ¢xleiil pennilled by law, Ive do not
accepl oi. assuine responsibilily lo anyone othei Ibnn the Cliarily and Ibe Charity's meinbers as a body, foi. our uudit work,
for Iliis i'eport. or for the opinions we have forn)cd.
P Buck FCA.DChA (Senioi. Siatutory Aiidilor)
foi. and on behalf of Champion Accounlailts LLP
Cli81'tered Accouiilant5
& Statutoiy Auditors
7-9 Station Road
Heskeih Baith
Pi'eston
Lancashire
PR4 6SN
?7
Page 6
EmPOWER]ENT CIIARITY LANCASHIRE CTO
SI'ATEMENT ofi Fl.NANCIAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THL I'EAR ENDF.D 3ASThlARCH 2025
2025
Total
2024
Total
Unrestricted
funds
Re51ricted
i)d
Notes
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and legacics
1,125.928
346,153
1.472,081
1,432,662
Chai'ltable actlrftles
Dii'ecl Cliariiable Activities
973,977
973,977
943,947
Inv¢slnient income
068
2.122,973
346,153
2.469,126
2,383,618
XPLI NDITURE ON
Raising fiindb,
78,652
16,112
94.764
134,635
CIIAI'ItAble actlvltlos
Diitct Cl)at'i¢able Activities
2.025,170
331.531
2,356,701
2,175,343
I'olal
2.103,822
347,643
2,451,465
2.309,978
NET INCOMEJ(EXPENDITURE)
19,151
(1.490)
17,661
73,640
TrAiisfer$ beliveeii funds
14
Net Inoveinciit Sn fuiids
19,151
(1,490)
17,661
73,640
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
l otal fund5 brouglit fonvayd
421,501
27J66
448,867
375,447
'roTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
52
86
Thc notes foriii pail of these firbaiicial atements
Page 7
EMPOWERl¥fENT CHARITV LANCASHtRE CIO
BALANCE SHLET
IIST MARCH 2025
2025
Total
fund8
2024
Total
fUlS
Unrestricted
fid5
Rcstricted
Notes
rilXED ASSEI IS
Tangible assets
27,611
27,611
35,476
CURREI Nl. ASSETS
Debioi's
Ca.%li at bank ttnd iii haiid
12
110,496
488413
110,496
514289
106,990
598.909
25,876
624.785
718,294
CREDII'ORS
Aniounts falling du¢ witliin one year
13
1185,868)
(185,868)
(304,903)
NET CURRLNT ASSETS
438 917
TO'fAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
440,652
25,876
466,528
448.867
NET ASSETS
14
Uniesli'icled fiind8;
General fiind
r)esignaled fui)d - Fixed Assels
424,587
JAL65
401,420
20
440,652
421.501
Resli icted fiind8'.
Restiicled fiind
TOTAL FUNDS
The fina
cial slalemeiits were approved by the Board of TnJsle¢s auihoiised for issue on
i_ i i- Lo-ic..and were signed on itsbehalf by:
S BilsboLYOW- Chaii.
The notes fomi part of tliese financial statenients
Page 8
KMPOWFRMEf4T CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
CASH FLOW STATEMENT
FOR TEIF. AR ENDED 31ST hL4RCH 2025
2025
2024
Cash floivs fi'oin opei-ating activities
Casli generated froni opei'ations
120083
1.12 027
N¢t eash used in operatino tiVitieS
120083
132027
Cash flows froin Investiiig acilvltles
Purcliase of tan¥ible lixed a&4els
Interest i'eceived
(1.573)
Net used in iiivesting activilies
CIIRnge In casli ftnd ¢Ash equivjlents In
tlie t-epoi'liiig pei'lod
CAsli And cash cqulvaletS at tlie
beginning of tlie rLporling pei'iod
{97.015)
137,463
473 841
Casli and e*sli eqiiivaleiits al tht end of
Ilie i'eporling perlod
The notss forni part of tliese financial stalements
Page 9
EMPOWERMF.NT CHARITY LANCASHtRE CIO
NOTES TO THE CASH FLOW STATF.MENT
FOR I"HE YEAR F.YDED 31STMARCH 2025
RECONCILIATION OF NET EXPENDITURfi TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING
ACTIVITIES
2025
2024
Net inconielexpenditure foi. tlie reporting period (as per the Stalemcnt
of Fingiiclal Aetlvlties)
Adjustnients for:
Depreciation cliai'ges
Interest I'eceived
(Inct'easc)Idecrease in debtors
Increasd(decr¢4lsel in ercditors
17.661
73,640
7,865
(23,068)
(3,506)
119035
9,824
(7,009)
(19,097)
Net cRsh used In operatlons
Af4ALYSlS ofi CHANGES IN NET FUNDS
At 1.4.24
Cash flow
At 31.3.25
Net CAsh
Casli al bank and in hand
015
514289
Tli¢ notes form part of these financial slaten)ents
Page 10
EMPOWERMENT CHARITYLANCASHtRE CIO
OTES TO THE FINANCIALSTA1'F.MENTS
FOR llir. VEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of prepai'iiig tbe finaiicial staleinents
The financial blateinents OF the chArily, wl)ich is a public bcnefil entity under FRS 102. h8v¢ been pi'epared in
accoi'dance with Il)e Charities SORP {FRS 102) 'Accounling and Reportii)g by Chai'ities.. Statemeiit of
Recainm¢nded Practice applicable lo cliarilles preparing Ilicir accounts in accordance with llie Financial Rcporling
Standard apijlicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effeclivc l Janiiary 2019),. Financial Repoi'liiig
Siandai'd 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard ai)plicable in Ihc UK and Republic of Ireland, and tlie Cl)ai'iti¢s
Act 2011. The financial slalements have been preparcd under Ihe liistorical eosl convention.
Income
AIS incoine is recognised in the Slalemenl of Financial Aeiivities once the charity has enlitleinei)I to the hnds. 1¢
is probable Ilial the incoinc will be received and (be ainount Lan be measured reliably.
Eipenditure
Liabiliiies arc recogniscd as expenditurc a5 soon as thcwc is a legal or constructive obligation coniinilling tl)e
charity to tliat expenditui'e, il is piY)bable thal a transfer of cconoii)i¢ bencfits will be reqiiired iii settlement and
Ilie ainount of Ihe obligation can be nicasured reliably. Exi)enditure is accounted foi. on an acci'uals basis and has
been classified under lieadin88 that aggregate all Cost I'claled lo tl)e calcgory. Wl)ere cosls Cannot be directly
atlribuled lo particular headings Ilicy liave been allocaled lo aclivilies on a basis consislenl willi the use of
resolirees.
Allocatlon and 8pportlonmcnl of Costs
Suppoj'l costs
Thei'e is only one cliai'ilablc uclivity h¢ading* and a very small proportion of c11.11able aclivilie8 are atli'ibuted lo
fund raising, Ilierefoi'e lo reallocate support costs to Ihis hcadiiig would be meaningless and Ilie figures involvcd
iinmald'ial.
Oiily costs foinierly included it) goveiiiance are shown 4% support costs ond allocated to charitAble acliviticy.
Sinle Ilici'¢ is only one c1181'itable aelivity headin& all costs air included tliere,
Taiiglble flxed assets
DepreciNlion is pruvided al Ilie following annual ratss in ord¢i' to write off e&cli gssei ovei. its esbniated use1
lifc.
Improvements to prop¢rty
Fixtures 11 nd fitEings
straight line over period of lease
25/0 on ¢05
T#xatloii
The cliarity is exeinpt from tax on ils charilable activiti&%.
Fund accountiiig
Uiiiesli'icled funds cdii be used in accordance with the charitable objeetives at th¢ discrelion of Il)c liSItes.
R¢stri¢ted funds can only be used for particular restriclcd purposes within Il)e objects of (he charity.
Reslriclions ai'i5e whcn.gpecified by Ilie donor or wlien funds are i'aised for parliculai. re.stricled purpose8.
Designalcd fiinds arc ¢annarked forJn&lly by tlic trustees for a paiticular pUrse and can be forinally
iiiidesignated and go back isito ihe general fund.
Fui%lier explanation of Ihe nature and purpose of each fund is included in the noies to th¢ financial s¢alei)ieiits.
Hire purchH5e and leasing cojnmitments
Rentals paid undcr operating leases oie charged to the Ststement of Financial Activilies on a sts'aighi line basis
ov¢r the period of Il)e lease.
Pettslon co81s aiid other post-rettrement benellts
Thc cl)aiity op¢i'ates a defined conli'ibulion pension scheme. Conli'ibutions payable lo the chai-ity's
pension schejne arc cli.ged to tl)e slalement of Financial Aclivities in the period lo ivliicli they i'elate.
Pagell
conlkiiued...
EMPOWERMF.NT CFIARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEIMF,NTS- continued
FOR I'HE YEAR F.NDED 31ST MARCH 2025
DONA TIOPIS AND LEGACJES
2025
2024
Donations
Donations in kind
Fundraising
G¢'ants
Oil)ei' income
StLident placennts
38,146
1.890
4.120
L,289.357
135.778
41,224
11,370
312
1266,532
105,074
Grai)ts received, included in the above, are as follows:
2025
2024
H¢adsl8lt
Tlie National Lotleiy Coinmunity Fuiid- CIDV A & BF&W
Coinmunity Engagement
Hoin¢ Siippoit Fund- Pi'iority W&Tds Communily Engagenlent
NE.IS Pi'iorily Wai'ds- Communiiy EngaB¢n)enl
Masoiiic Charitable Foiindlllion
Tudoi. Trust-Tlie Den
Blackpool Coiiiicil- Single Gender Residenlial
Blackpool Coiin¢il- Suicide Bei'eavcnient Furtd
Skipton Biiilding Socicty Cliariiabl¢ Fouiidaiion- The r)en
Healiliwalcli Bla¢kpool- IIDRC Health Equily Research
l-lealtliwal¢li Bla¢kpvol- Cost of Living
HealthwRl¢li Blackpool Conimissioned
Healtliwalcli Bla¢kpool - Hoines foi. Uthin¢
Healiliwalcli Blockpool - Co-Pi'odii¢tion Rcscarcli
Healthwalcli Blaekpool-CMHT VCFSE
PLibli¢ Healih - Lived I":xperienc¢ Teaiii
The Raiik Foundation
I'he Rank Fouiidalion- T2S
The Rat]k Fouiidalion- Aspir¢
The Rank Foundalioil - Poverty Truth
Tlie Elliott Taylor Memoi'ial Fund
DHSC Suicide Preveniion Fwid
Lancasliire and South Cunibria NIIS - CMT TIBnsforniation
Lftncesliire and Soutli Ciiiiibi'ia NHS- CMT Transformation (Elliol's Place)
Blackpool Coiincil- Genci'al Funds Tlie Drn
Tlie Rard( Found41ion- T2S
PCC VAWG- Safer Streets
OPCC- Youth Chang¢ Makers
BBC Children inNced
The Police & Criine Commissionei'_ Ministry of Justice
Tlie Police & Crime Commissioncr- Doinestic & Sexual Violen
Poi'liciis
Public Health- Lived Experience T¢am
Pi'obalion - Prison Leavcr Co-OrdinaloT
121.008
115,246
8,0
10,o(x)
5,052
15.(xl)
29.700
500
5,(KJO
4,186
36,900
15,0(X)
70.0(K)
83,763
6.000
87 J40
15,IXK)
45,833
9,250
25,0(X)
5,943
15,783
12,5(Xl
30,000
20,(X)3
22,582
10,417
5,809
59,997
67,039
47,500
4,167
66,5(K)
19,342
34,000
21.655
9,599
8,744
34,000
34.616
30,000
569,280
34,615
14,330
600,000
89
Page12
confiiiued...
EMPOWERMFNT CHARITY LANCASHtRE CIO
NOTES I'O THE FINANCIAL STATEMF.NTS- tontlnued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
INVESJ'MENT INCOME
2025
2024
Deposit aLcounl interest
Page 13
conliiiued...
EMPOWERMfi NT CHARtTY I.ANCASHIRE CIO
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMF,NTS- eonilnued
FOII THE YEAR FNDED 31ST MARCII 2025
INCOME FROM CHARITABLE AcrtvrrIFS
2025
2024
Activity
Direct Charitable Activities
Conlracts
Conlracts reeeived, included in tl)c abovq arc &8 follows:
2025
2024
Blackpoal Coiincil - Blackpool Advocacy Hiib
Blackpool Coiin¢il- Blackpool Fjeller Siart Dad's Peer Support
Blackpool Council- Suicide Pi'evenlion Service
504.285
75,000
75,000
504.285
75.(KD
Public Health- MH Homeless Rough Sleepers
Blackpool Council - Pccr Support Rough Sleep¢
Blaekpool Coiincil - Healihwatch Blackpool
Blackpool Coun¢il - Healihwhtcli Blackpool Ukrainian Work
Blackpool Council - Healihwalcli Blackpool Co-Pro of Healili Enquiries
Bla¢kpool Council - Healthwatch Bldckpool l.IDRC Co-research¢rs
Blackpoul Coiincil - Healthwaicl) Blacki)ool LDPBIAPB
Livery)ool Univei'gity- National PaitneiEliip to iackle h¢alth inequality in
eoaslal conimunilies
28,278
42,000
61,550
3,5(10
29,018
129,196
20.000
33277
42,0(XJ
61,550
16,150
24,IXKI
I27,21
10,664
973,977
943,947
RAISING FUNDS
RAisiTig don4¢ion$ legacie$
2025
2024
Dii'ecl project cosL8
Fund12ising cosls
11,576
105,761
CHA'TABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS
Siippoit
costs {e
note 7)
Direct
Costs
Tolals
Direct Chatitable A¢livities
SUPPORT COSTS
Govei'n8nce
Costs
Direct c1)arib1e A¢livities=
Legal and P¢rJfe&8ional Fces
Audit Fees
Accountancy Fees
16,073
9.600
3,798
Pagc 14
conlii)ued...
F.MPOWERiWENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
NOTES TO THF. FINANCIAI..STATF.MENTS- continued
FOR THE YF.All kNs'DED 31ST MARCII 2025
TRUSTEES, EXPF.NSES
There wer¢ liNstees' expcn5¢s for the year ended 314Marcl) 2025 of £5.50 aiid £0 for the year ended
3 Ill Marcl) 2024.
Pagc 15
continued...
ri MPOWFRMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
NOTES TOTHE fiNANCIAI,STATfMENTS-eontiDued
FOR THE YF./lR ENDED 315f fviARCH 2025
STAFfi COSTS
The average headcounL including paTI time staff. employed by the charily duiing the year was 78.6 (2024.. 64).
Wagc Costs:
2025
2024
Gross
Wa
es
Employer's
NIC
Employer's
Pciisiotj
Gl'oss
Employei s
NIC
Elnployer's
Pension
1,748.351
145.829
35,887
1587,161
129270
The key manmgemenl personnel of Ilie Cliarily during Il)e year Are as noted in tlie Tivslecs Report. Tlie lolal
eniployee bencfits of tlie key managemenl personnel of the Charity w¢re E384.309 (2024.. £322.724).
COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTiifITIES
Unrestricled
funds
io.
Restricted
nd
Tol#]
nds
INCOMEAND ENDOWMENTS FROM
Donations and Icga¢i¢s
,034.778
397.884
1.432,662
Cliarltable ¥¢tlvitles
Dii'ecl Cliarilable Activities
868,947
75,(MXI
943,947
Investm¢nl income
Tot81
1,910,734
472,884
2,383,618
EXPCNDI'fuRC ON
R4isir)g funds
100,807
33.828
134,635
Cli#rltable activities
Dii'ecl Charitable Activities
1,724,360
450,983
2.175,343
TolAI
1,825,167
484,811
2,309,978
NET INCOMEI(EXPEI NDITURE)
85,567
(11.927)
73,640
Ti'aiisfer$ between funds
Net movevnent In funds
85567
(11,927)
73,640
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought foIryvI
335.934
39,293
375,227
TOTAL TrUNDS CARRIED FORWARD
Pa8c 16
continued...
EMPOWERMENT CHARITY LANCASHtRE CIO
f40TES TO THf FINANCIAL STATEMENTS_ continued
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST JMARCH 2025
ii.
TANGIBLE FIXEI D ASSKTS
Improvemeiits
FiXtuS
property
fillings
TotAIs
COST
At l Api'il 2024
Additions
59,127
53,032
112,159
Al 31" March 2025
DKPRECIATION
At I. April 2024
Cliarge foi. year
39,046
37,637
76.683
At 31" Marcl) 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 3151 Mclrcli 2025
Ai 31" Marcl) 2024
12.
DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHI]Y ONE YEAR
2025
2024
Trade d¢btors
Accrued income
Prep1c yments
86.185
14,913
63,692
38,201
13.
CREDITORS.. AMOUNTS FALLING DULWITHIN ONE YEAR
2025
2024
Trade crediloi's
Social sccurity and other taxes
Acciuals and dcfci'ird income
Acciued expenses
49,916
8,329
113,155
35,737
7,568
213.155
Page 17
conlillued...
EMPOWERMENT CHARJTY LANCASHIRECIO
NOTES TO THE FIYL ANCLIL STATEMENTS- contlnued
roR THE VEAR ENDED 31sf MARCH 2025
14.
MOVEMEIYT IN FUNDS
Net
nioven)ent
in fvnds
Trnnsfers
between
fun%
At
31.3.25
Al 1.4.24
Uiii'es11'icted funds
Oenei'al fuiid
Designated fund- Fixed Assets
401.420
23.167
424,587
421,501
19,151
440.652
Restrlcted funds
Restricted Fund
27,366
(1.490)
25,876
TOTAL fi UNDS
44
86
Ne¢ mov¢ment in nds. included in Ilie above are as follows-
Incoiliing
rcsources
Resoiir¢es
exp¢nd¢d
Movenieni
in fiinds
Unrestrlc¢ed funds
General fvnd
Dcsignalcd fund- Fixed Assets
2,122.973
(2.099,806)
23,167
2,122,973
(2,103,822)
19,151
Re$trl¢t¢d funds
Restricted Fund
346,153
(347,643)
(1,490)
TOTAL FUNDS
(2.)
Tlie balances or] designaled fuiids as al 31 March 2025 are the Nel Book Value ol. fixed a&8ets relating to Elliot's Place.
Tliib ainounl repi'csents funds invested ii) fixcd ass¢1$. Tl)e b81ance on il)is fund al Ili¢ yearend was £16,065
Pag¢ 18
conti]iued...
EMPOWERMEwf CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMEIYTS- ¢onilnued
FOR THE YF.AR F.NDED 31ST MARCH 2025
15.
RELATEI D PARTV DISCLOSURES
During Ilie ycar ended 314 Marcb 2025, the charity paid Louise Owen. a Tn]stee, a total SUIT] of £500.75 for
bookkeepiiig support, which is a favoui'able rdle ihall sourcing these oli the open ii)ai'ket. It was felt that this was
a good use of funds.
16.
RESTRILTCt D FUNDS
The balancey on rGstiicted funds as al JI MJrch 2025 arr as follows'.-
The Elliot Taylor Memoi'ial Fund £5,000
Lotteiy Coiiiniunity Fund - CIDVA & BF&W 10,000
CIDVA Donations FLind £1,474
CIDV A Hardship Flind £171
Skiplon 53Liildii)g Society-The Den £4.186
BBC Cliildr¢n in Need £4,932
Masonic Lodgc £113
Page 19
EMPOWERMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRF.CIO
ETAILED STATEMENT OF FtNANCIAL AIVITI8
ST
riOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCTrI 2025
2025
2024
INCOMEAND LI NDOWMEN'rs
DunAtlons and legacles
Dotiations
Donaiions in kind
Gi'ants
FuDd12ising
Otliei. inLoine
Student placei)ients
38,146
1,890
1,289,3S7
4,120
135.778
41,224
11,370
1,266,532
312
105,074
,472.081
1.432.662
Inveslttient incoine
Deposit account interest
23,068
7,009
ChgJ4t4ble actlvltle8
Contiicts
Tot*1 liieonilng i'esources
2,469,126
2,383,618
EXPENDITURE
R8lsliig doiiatlons and Icgacles
Dii'ecl pi'ojeci costs
undi'aising ¢osts
83,188
105,761
94,764
134,635
CharitRblc A¢tiviti¢s
Wages
Consultancy aiid se¢ondmen15
Social seciirity
Pensions
Reiil, rates and water
Insurance
Telephone
Poblage and slatioriery
Staff and volllntcer exp¢
Coiiiputer siipport
Repaii's And equipment liire
Sub5¢riplions. trnining and qulllity
Bank- ch1( rges
Reci'uitjnenl and HR
R¢fi'eshiii¢nls and ¢leaning
Expenses in kind
Injpi'ovcments lo propcty
Carried forward
,729.637
28,101
145.830
35,887
46,453
13.571
20,539
15,214
39,413
122,817
27,648
72,001
3.342
1,642
15,380
1,890
4.016
2,323,381
1,587,161
39.722
129,270
32,370
40,450
9.OC)O
39.457
11,190
43.456
66.583
11,434
70.054
4.028
6,013
17,924
11,370
5,020
2,124,562
Thi5 page does not forni part of the statOry fmancial staten)ents
Page 20
EMPOWF.RMENT CHARITY LANCASHIRE CIO
DE* TAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCJAL ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR EJI DED 31ST MARCFI 2025
2025
2024
Charlt&ble aetivities
Brouglil lorwai'd
Fixtui'es and fittings
Coiy)putei' equiptnent
2,323,381
2.693
2.142,562
3,591
2,327,230
2.129.366
Support Costs
A¢coiinlaney fees
Legal and ptYJfes8ional f¢es
l.lJ98
11,088
Total I'esources expemded
451465
Net surplus
This page does not forni part of the statOlY fU1]cIal sthtenients
Page 21