2025-05-31-accounts

PATCHWORK PROJECT

A company limited by guarantee

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 31 May 2025

Charity number 1157186 Company number 08510835

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

The Trustees are pleased to present their Annual Directors’ report together with financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 May 2025, which are also prepared to meet the requirements for a Directors’ report and Accounts for the Companies Act purposes.

The financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2022, the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and Articles of Association and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable to the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

1. Objectives and activities

Patchwork Project is a grassroots organisation set up in 2001 by local people already active in their communities running activities voluntary; football, scouts, art-class, toddlers, childrens trips, residents committee. They were also social activists standing up for their communities, challenging council house clearances and demanding accountability.

Originally called ‘Benwell young peoples Development Group’. Committee members wanted to collaborate rather than compete with each other to get the best deal for their neighbourhood. They raised money to employ youth workers to work in patches across their local areas; ‘Patchwork’ was born.

Eventually Patchwork became the largest entity and focus of the group. In 2013 the committee incorporated the charity and in 2014 changed the organisations name to that which it was already known on the street; ‘Patchwork’.

Purpose and aims

Whilst the charitable purpose are unchanged since 2001, in that Patchwork, aims to improve the life-chances of local young people.

The charitable objects were amended (2014) to reflect the challenging work already being undertaken in the local area (underlined):

Articles:

To help and educate young people between the ages of 5 and 25 years resident in the West End of Newcastle Upon Tyne and the surrounding area, including those who are involved in the Criminal Justice System or at risk of becoming involved in the Criminal Justice System, without distinction of sex, sexual orientation, race or political, religious or other opinion, through their leisure time activities so to develop their physical, mental and spiritual capacities that they might grow to full maturity as Individuals and members of society and so that their conditions of life may be improved.

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PATCHWORK PROJECT

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

The Trustees also came up with 3 governing principles to apply to the work to ensure public benefit;

Accountability – to be open and transparent in all aspects of the organisation, for the funding/spending and the work being carried out. To be able to be held to account. Visibility - For the work to be seen, young peoples achievements recognised and shared. For workers to be active in the community, approachable on the street and local people aware of what is being done by Patchwork in the neighbourhood. Investment – To seek to invest in the neighbourhood. Young people themselves, workers to ensure that they are up to the job, and for money brought into the project to directly benefit children and young people.

– for the whole neighbourhood to benefit.

Turning charitable objectives into actions: Chairs report:

The team and community at Patchwork never cease to humble and amaze me. Patchwork has overcome changes and challenges alike without sacrificing what makes it special. Set against a background of a tough financial climate affecting everyone in the Third Sector, Patchwork has continued to deliver for young people in the West End and beyond.

Ashleigh and Karl — Benwell locals and involved in Patchwork as young people themselves — graduated their Degrees in Community and Youth Studies with flying colours and are now working to further improve the lives and prospects of young people. I am immensely proud of them.

The visit to Chamonix stands out to both staff and young people as a high point of the year and for good reason. It might not be obvious to people on the outside but without Patchwork; travel to such places would simply be unthinkable for young people in Benwell. This trip took a lot of planning and work to pull off, but the grinning faces of young people in photos speak for themselves.

It's telling that even in this financial climate; people at the highest levels can recognise Patchwork's dedication and skill. I was delighted to hear that the National Lottery Community Fund has given Patchwork a grant to deliver a wide range of activities and support for young people. If anyone from the NLCF is reading this; thank you. You have no idea what this means to me and how it will help young people in Benwell.

Finally, I must acknowledge the legacy of John Pattison. John resigned as Chair of Patchwork in December 2024 after serving for nearly a quarter of a century. There

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would be no Patchwork without John. I was a little dumbstruck when I became Chair, but John is still around and always generous with wise counsel. I look forward to continuing in his footsteps.

Dr Matt Marshall-Dent

The focus of the work

Youth work

We work with young people aged 8-25 but 13+ is our focus. The age when they’re growing, making their own opinions, life is less vague, and they want to talk about their own views of the world. Patchwork has always been a safe space for young people to express themselves, create new friendships, try new things and create their own groups within the project which leads to friendship groups outside.

Our staff being from the local area understand the pressures of money, belonging, drugs, crime and the difficulties of school. With this we try our best to connect with young people and show them that they aren’t alone. We also understand the importance of having strong relationships and being able to offer them support where it is needed.

Our workers are always available and get themselves and the young people involved in any activity that is going on. While doing this we share fears, learning and understanding with young people.

We recognize negative stereotypes and challenge them to help young people understand and have their own opinions on stereotypes and not follow based on what is being said on social media, in the community or in their own homes.

“The staff are what make this project, they’re class and understand people” – Lad 15 being interviewed by a funder

“We didn’t know much about the project but it’s amazing to see our son involved in something so positive” – parent

“Love patchy me it’s the one day of the week I look forward too when its our group” – Lad 13

“Love speaking to yous about my difficulties cos I know even if yous don’t have the answer you will go away and look it up and get back to me with some advice” – Lad 20

“Andi, you are my daughter” parent talking (about the length of time Patchwork has worked with her family)

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“I always forget that I have school tomorrow… everytime” Millie Snowangels, talking about how much fun she has and how relaxed Patchwork makes her feel

“It’s the best job in the world, every day is so different and the relationships you make with people are just unreal” – Karl

“I’ve been to youth projects before but no wheres like this, the staff are actually sound and respectful and stuff” – Delaney

Staff: “you are part of Patchy now… you stepped through the door”

Yp: “Whos in Charge?” Staff: “You are, it’s your project, your minibus, it’s your local community that’s in charge”(Explaining the structure of Patchwork)

Comings and goings

This year has been one of change. We have had 2 workers who have ‘grown up through the project’ move onto other work. Ashleigh after 5 years and Owen more than 8. A big adjustment for staff as well as children and young people.

A ‘sad, but happy for them’ mixture of emotions. Incredibly proud moments for the trustees to once again see well trained and experienced staff go out into the world and create change. The ripples of influence going further and more children and young people benefit both directly and in awe of these role models to their own communities.

Goings:

Ashleigh

Joined Patchwork a month prior to the Covid lockdown of 2020, she worked through all the difficult times including the death of Michael Bell, holding true to their shared belief in curiosity and self-education. She carried out some excellent small projects work, young womens work and everything in between. She left us in Jan2025 to continue to work with children and young people, in the NHS. Following a personal interest in harm reduction and drugs and alcohol at Plumber Court in Newcastle.

We wish her every success in her new role and know that she takes the values of youthwork she practised at Patchwork into her new job. More recently Ashleigh has made a move into employment with Newcastle City Council on the Over 18’s leaving care team. Again, we can see that she will be perfect at this… bringing lots of skills together for the benefit of those she works with.

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For the year ended 31 May 2025

She continues to be an amazing role model for local women in the area, and there are whispers about her joining the trustees of Patchwork once she has settled into her new job.

“Can’t believe your leaving, its gunna be so different without you” – Ben with a tear in his eye

“Who am I going to share a kebab with now?” – Owen

“All the way through Uni together, I’m gutted you’re leaving but change is good” – Karl “where’s Ash?” – many people still to this day

Owen:

After an incredible 8+years working for Patchwork Owen decided it was time to try something new. This is a man who has grown up, lived and breathed patchwork alongside Michael Bell all his life. Camping, cycling, groupwork – great expertise in building and maintaining relationships with children and young people. One of the most naturally gifted workers at supporting learning and development with individuals and groups and also lots of fun.

In April 2025 he took the plunge to leave for work with children and young people in another role; ‘Social services residential support worker’. Something we knew he would excel at given his personality and skills. We wish him every success in the future and are so happy when he pops back in with Lou Bransby for a catch up, or volunteers at community events. He is a fantastic role model for the local community. He continues to develop himself, having recently regained his life guard qualification and picks up hours at Elswick swimming pool.

Owen sometimes still attends some sessions when his busy schedule allows it.

“A can’t believe Owen has gone, we grew up in our group with him as our youth worker”. – Slovak lads

“The place is so quiet without his madness” – Sarah

“WE MISS OWEN” – star pizzas

With ‘goings’ comes opportunities for ‘comings’. It is exciting for other young people in the community to realise the opportunities that are open for them.

“It warms my heart that 20odd years on we are still giving young people from the area these fantastic opportunities, I’m so proud” – John P

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For the year ended 31 May 2025

Comings:

Savannah

Joined the team in July 2024 following 6 months volunteering. She began a traineeship that saw her working 4 days per week and studying a Level 3 in youth work alongside.

Having grown through the project we already knew that Savannah had all the traits of being a great youthworker; committed, thoughtful, challenging, non-stereotypical and especially up for new experiences, learning and developing herself.

Josh and Thomas

Joined the team in April as part-time trainees, on a 6month work trial. Helping us to cover the immediate face-to-face work following the gaps in our team and give the project space to think. Josh had been volunteering for the past 2 years alongside sports science in Gateshead College. Thomas had been volunteering for 6 months whilst also working full-time.

Both are from the local area, both have had an excellent introduction to the work already and we knew they could be trusted to work with groups, understood the values of the project as well as the context of the community and the barriers people face.

Since then, both of them enrolled onto the L3 youthwork course in May 2025. In such short time have been a part of some great youth work, they have done residentials to outdoor centres, DofE camping which meant realising and learning a whole new side to DofE, a whole summer programme, over nights at the upside down house. They have built amazing relationships with the young people in the area through excellent group work and detached.

2. Achievements and performance

Another year comes with many different accomplishments. Our motto at patchwork is ensuring our staff are fully qualified for the role they’re in and this year especially has been a very busy one. Firstly, we had two of our full-time staff finish their degrees. Ashleigh, who originally missed her GCSE exams on a trip to France with patchwork over 10 years ago now completed her degree in community and youth studies at the University of Sunderland ending with a 2.1. The whole cohort at the university constantly sings her praises of how amazing her presence on the course was. Karl, who never attended school as a child and didn’t have any qualifications also finished a degree in community and youth studies with a 2.1 at Sunderland. His dedication earned him the Teresa Driver memorial award for outstanding commitment to his studies, his support in the classroom and personality throughout the three years.

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For the year ended 31 May 2025

Ashleigh Aylward, Karl Gilbert, Elisha Sanchez (from projects4change) receiving their Degrees from Sunderland University.

In very recent time we have had Savannah complete her Level 3 youth work, she had volunteered for over a year before being brought on part time alongside her study. Now she has completed her course she has progressed into a full-time role, plans have begun to get her onto her degree.

“Never even knew uni existed one time in my life now I have a degree” – Karl What a tough three years its been, all worth it now – Ashleigh

My grandad wasn’t going to come to graduation because it was in the stadium of light, he had to bite the bullet and come. – Ashleigh

Finally finished my level 3, took so many weekends of my life but feel like its just the start - Savannah

Women of the year – International womens day

To celebrate International Women’s Day in March 2025, Newcastle Council invited organizations to shine a light on local women who are an inspiration to others. All the women whose names were put forward were invited to a celebration event at the Civic Centre. We nominated Lynne who has been Patchwork’s administrator since 2016,

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Lynne has worked in the west end for over 25 years, including at The Pink Palace in Scotswood, the Key fund and West End Women and Girls. Lynne works away in the background and makes sure that Patchwork runs smoothly. She always has time for the young people we work with, past users of Patchy and their families. She is a positive role model to us all and helps others to succeed by encouraging both staff and young people.

Kate Percival, Maureen Forrest and Lynne Percival at City Hall, International Womens Day.

Bikes

Always on the calendar of activities for every group, every year are our bike rides. Near or far, long or short. We are proud to continue to get out on bikes, especially with young women who can too easily be put off with negative stereotyping.

Getting muddy, getting punctures, pic-nics, photos, it’s always an adventure.

This year we’ve had bike rides to the coast, to local countryside and always with a hill at the end… sometime we curse hodgy bank!

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With riding bikes, of course comes fixing bikes. Most of the staff at patchwork have good experience of fixing bikes and have built up quite the reputation in the area as the place to go when you’re having mechanical issues. It fits into our community profile that we’re always on hand to give your bike a look at. Although we’re sure some people intentionally break their bike for us to fix, AGAIN.

“lets have a wheelie competition!!!” – lads 14yrs

“only been peddling 10mins and feels like we’re in the countryside” – lass 15

“trusted em on the bikes and they were dead good, listened to everything we said, no messing about on roads, helmets on.. even talking about doing the coast to coast” Karl talking about new lads group

“Andi you got a front wheel for is 27?” (for a bike with 24” wheels)

Patchy bike rides are serious, always loads of hills and a proper mission away… can we go on one? – Lad 18

“Good thing patchy had all the right stuff, managed to get me flatty sorted straight away” – Lad 19

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“I done a bike fixing course with patchy, I know how to change a chain now and redo brake cables” – Lad 18

SINGLE FILE! ON THE LEFT! NO WHEELIEING HERE! …Echos down the line on a bike ride

Individual work or 121

Patchwork has always run a 1-2-1 during our drop in and other hours. We do this because we care. Our 1-2-1 work can range from mild to extreme. A young person could come in looking for a job and Patchwork will do everything we can to support them into finding employment. We will have a look at their CV, support them with applications and even drive them to interviews if they have to. Our staff take pride in seeing people from the area succeed in whatever they want.

We can also have some people come in who just aren’t having the best time, who maybe need some support in many different areas of their life. Patchwork is always the place to sit with a cup of tea and sort your life out. People get mental health support, employment support, drug support, alcohol support, support staying out of crime, sexual health.

Patchwork staff do a lot of group work but even during group work they take their opportunities to develop their 1-2-1 relationships, recognising if any young people looks like they could do with a chat.

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“I wouldn’t have the job I have now if it wasn’t for Karl” – Ben

“Is Andi and Sarah in the back I need to speak to them privately?” – Anonymous

“Can I do my C-card?” – Anonymous

“Can you help me apply for college?” – many people

“Can you help me practice for my theory?” ‘GET THE APP AND DO 10 QUESTIONS ANY CHANCE YOU CAN’ – everyone learning to drive

“How old do I have to be till I can get my provisional?” – lad 16

“Can you help me sort my car insurance I’ve got nee idea how to do it?” – lad 18

“Can I eat my dinner in here?” – lad 21

“Aye I’ve already got ID, its me bail pass from the police..” – Lad 17

“I’m so glad I come in, I was having a really bad day, and I knew yous would cheer me up” lass 16

“Is Karl in? I need to speak to someone, man to man” Lad 19

Chamonix / Travel

2025 is marked the year we have returned this goal to the project and the aims and ambitions of young people in the local area. We used to have an aim of at least 1 trip abroad per year. Over the last few years due to Covid and bereavement this hasn’t been possible.

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In April we took a group of 7 young people to the French alps. It was the first time flying for most of the group. Our journey began with a drive from Newcastle to Manchester; the young people’s first experience of an airport went without any hiccups as we boarding our flight from Manchester to Geneva. Once there we took transport to Chamonix, a small climber’s village at the foot of Mont Blanc (the biggest mountain in the alps).

Whilst there we did some amazing activities, Tobogganing, train to a glacier, going up the biggest cable car in the world Aiguille Du Midi, exploring ice caves, hiking the hills and surrounding towns, rock climbing, local train rides.

The trip was an amazing experience; we used funding from the High Sheriff’s Award and Edwards Trust. This meant 7 young people from Benwell got to travel the world. Doing things, they had never imagined or even thought possible.

At the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car - Chamonix

“OMG look at the snow at the top of the mountains” – Lass 16

“I wanna save up and go back one day, I look back now and omg it was so good” lass 17

“So you can’t take any pop through an airport?” – Lad 16

“I thought id be scared of flying but that was actually sound” – Lad 17

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“Since going up that cable car I wasn’t scared of flying. I’ve never flown sober cos of my fear but that flight back was so different” – Sarah

“We all got altitude sickness going up that cable car” – Karl

“So they just run off the mountain and parachute all the way down?” – Lad 16

Community behind bars

It’s a place where we hope young people never end up, but inevitably some do. These past few years it seems that the deaths of those who have been behind bars, poorer life chances following that, and the challenges of drugs and a crime-free life have been too much. We have all been to far too many funerals. Seen the havoc wreaked on families and children left behind.

So, we remain committed to do all we can to channel young people along the right paths in life, or at least the least dangerous to themselves and others. Talking to young men about their hopes and dreams, being there to listen and guide. Sometimes it can feel like a loosing battle, but the consequences are too dear. We continue on as best we can.

Detached

Detached is going out and about on the streets and catching up with young people and families. Workers will support each other to build stronger relationships and bonds with parent’s, carers, young people and the whole community. Often, we will meet new people, develop relationships and invite them along to patchwork to check it out.

Because a lot of our staff come from the local area detached work can happen at all times, you could be getting your dinner and all you hear is “patchy, patchy”. This is a difficult scenario for developing youth workers to manage which is why supervision is extremely important in the project.

Detached is one of our methods of working with young people, this method means we’re in young people’s space, the power is completely with them whether they interact with us or not. This is an important dynamic in youth work as young people’s interaction is voluntary. Hence why our staff are constantly keeping up with relevant training, constantly using their natural ability to build and maintain relationships.

We also take this opportunity to tell young people and parents about upcoming events and group sessions.

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In a local park with Thomas Popplewell

“Cant believe yous were out last night in the freezing cold” – Lad 17 the day after seeing us on detached in winter

“Detached is one of my favourite parts of the job” – Thomas

“When can we do a day out?” – group developed through street interactions

“Why do yous do this every week?” – young volunteer (learning youth work)

“Ill catch them on detached” – staff

“Do yous want to join in our football match?” – young lads met on detached

Duke of Edinburgh Award

The DofE is a huge part of Patchwork. It gives us the opportunity to expose young people to the outdoors. Patchwork runs the DofE slightly different to many different organisations. Instead of taking large groups of individuals we like to focus on small friendship groups. This makes the groups’ experience a little more personal, it means they can make amazing memories with their friends. It also gives patchwork flexibility to add the youth work into the expedition. With smaller groups we can create

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opportunities for conversation, some of the best conversations can come when young people are exposed to something they’ve never experienced.

There are three stages of the DofE, Bronze, Silver, Gold. Completing the DofE gives young people a prestigious award to go on their CV. It gives them opportunities to develop a new skill outside of education, the chance to take up some volunteering, and to stay fit in any physical activity. They work extremely hard towards the different areas of the award, and the benefits are worth the energy, as it not only benefits their CV but more importantly, their thinking and lived experience.

It has become the norm within patchwork that, when school has ended and young people have put in their hard work in their sections. They pick up their map, compass and walking boots and ‘head for the hills’.

“why is my hot chocolate spicy” – Brano After using the same pan, he made noodles with for hot chocolate

• “Ive just had sheep running all around is and now I’m covered in S***!” – Alicia “how does this exist in the UK” Ayan whilst driving into Keswick

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“Swear them midges are a different level, I got home, all the spots healed and emptied then just came back. I was itchy for a week straight” – Kai

“Got so many memories from my DofE me, I loved it when I was younger” – Lad 25 “My favourite part was swimming in that lake, it was raining and we didn’t want to go in, but once Karl did we just followed and then didn’t want to get out” – Lad 15

“Cant believe the window got smashed by an accident, I thought we were gunna have to call it off but we covered it with a black bag and still got to do the expedition” – Thomas

“Cant believe we’re having bacon and egg sarnies in the middle of no where” – lad 15 “we saw the Elon Musk Starlink – it was mad” – group of lads 15

Drop in

Our drop in is held on the main road in our building on Adelaide terrace. Starting at 12 and finishing at 4:30pm we use this time to help young people with CV’s, provisional license, birth certificates, euss or even just for a catchup.

The drop in is a great resource to build and maintain relationships. Being on the main road ensures we are seen for people to come in and ask for help or have a chat. It’s where everyone can mix and no one has more of a right to be there. We create an open welcome with smiling workers, poster photos of our activities, tea and of course our favorite biscuits.

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“I’ve come to sit here and wait for bobby’s barbers” Lad 23

“Just came to eat me scran and have a catch up” Lass 17

‘Can we chill in the front room for abit?’ lads group

“You have radge conversations in ya, I was sat the other day with the youth workers and some random lads talking about the origins of our names, Mad” – Lad 18 Worker: Yous are 2 hours early for your group.. “yeah, so..” (a safe place for 2 lasses to spend time)

Holiday Programme

The holidays are always busy times, and we try to get as many young people out and about and we can. It works well and builds relationships and broadens horizons. Sometimes people drop out at the last minute, so we have to ask others to come and fill the places. This is Patchy’s way -encouraging young people to get out of bed and come with us on an adventure!

We receive some money from Streetgames to run activities over the school holidays with under 16’s. This funds many of the outings and activities that we run with different groups each Easter and Summer. Activities we did this last year included: Gutterball,

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Go Ape, Trampolining, Surfing, Quaser Lazer , Golf, Alnwick Gardens Visit , Air Trail on Teesside, Fun Days and activities in Patchy 2.

We take out two groups, sometimes three, out each day and regularly put on a community swimming events at Elswick Pool, this is for young people and their families. Food is a huge part of our work. Eating together whether that’s a sit down in a café, sitting outside eating meal deals and picnics or eating chips at the coast. Fruit goes down well with everyone too. Everyone likes their food and the conversations we can have over food is what we look forward to with groups. We also use food as a thank you to volunteers for their support with younger groups over the holidays.

“We love the summer cos we get a full day of activities” – Lass 12

“Can we get in the pool and use the hose for a water fight” – Lad 9

“I’m petrified of heights and I done the big swing at go ape” – Lass 15

“When is patchy fun day? We want the bouncy castle” – lass 8

“We went on the bell boats and seen a seal, then jumped off the jetty. It was unreal” – Lad 16

“So we get to go swimming and see the beach, all in one day” – Lad 13

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Partnership Work

Linking with Streetgames has meant that we have been offered opportunities to go to events. We took a group to London to watch the Rugby League challenge cup final 2024 at Wembley. Most of the group had not been to London before so enjoyed seeing the sights, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Paalce, The London Eye, Big Ben and the houses of parliament.

We also got chance to take a group to Brathay in the Lake District on a residential with other youth organisations from the UK who work with Streetgames. This made a big impact on those involved because of meeting lots of different people from different places.

We have a great relationship with Solen and Blue Spirit Sailing, linking with Projects 4 Change at Cowgate. We couldn’t do the sail training experiences without sponsorship from Blue Spirit. A group of girls from Patchwork did a joint sailing trip with a group from Projects 4 Change.

Dean Curry now manages the youth project at Ocean Road Community Centre in South Shields. With our shared values and methods this is great chance to do joint work together, bringing young people together from different areas.

Lads work

During their teens lads go through the biggest changes they will ever go through in their lives, their hormones and testosterone levels have risen more than ten times than their childhood. During this stage their thoughts and views are being shaped. It’s very important for lads to have good role models, hence why the project has employed young men, from the area, who have developed themselves into a position to offer their experiences and values.

It is no secret that social media is currently having a great impact on our young men, the different influencers and voices telling them how to think and act is so overwhelming for lads and extremely oppressive.

That is why it’s vital for them to have good relationships in their life. Patchwork gives young men a place to go and spend time together, somewhere to be themselves and develop ideas for themselves. The staff are always willing to have a conversation and question different views and opinions. They are also always willing to learn, we accept that young people and lads in particular have something to offer, they aren’t just in a ‘developmental stage of life’.

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Lads’ groups meet weekly where they get to plan, participate and evaluate their sessions. Their attendance is completely voluntary, and they decide the activities they do, things like swimming, go karting, football, pancakes in the woods, spooky walks, pool, darts, escape rooms, bike rides, camping, ice skating, sailing. Most important of all is time with other lads and role models!

“hya let wu gan for a kickabout man” Lad 15

“buzzing we’ve got a regular group now, it’s the only time we spend together now” lad

16

“Karl can I speak to you about boy stuff in private?” – Lad 19

“Lads chill out in here man, its class coming here we don’t want to mess about” – Lad 16

“Can we have a group with just the lads?” Lad 14

“Can we do a keyfund to go Go-Karting” – Lads group – 15

“I’d never get my bairns name tattooed on me… Can’t imagine I’d be allowed in their life” Lad 16 (talking about imagined future fatherhood)

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Lasses work

It’s not all about groups…… but sometimes it is. We do tons of work with lasses… groups is the way Patchy lasses like to spend quality time together and to do activities together.

Savannah from the old MMs group is working with us fulltime after volunteering loads with Patchwork. MM’s successfully completed their £1000 keyfund which helped us take lots of young people ice skating in as part of our Christmas 2024 celebrations. PPG’s has now changed into Classy Lassys and they applied for money from Hatricks NE Girls project to do 8 weeks of horse riding lessons at Stepney Bank stables. The lasses really enjoyed this and have done two pony treks since at Sinderhope.

SnowAngels group is mainly years 8 and 9 from Sacred Heart school, most are from Benwell/ Elswick and the wider area. They have weekly sessions planned in 12-week blocks and love to cook and go out and about with their group.

Seedguls continue to do things with us mainly in holiday times and we helped them with college places.

As lasses get older, they tend to call in for support and help when they need it particularly around looking for work, CV writing or for advice and support. It’s great to see the lasses grow up into confident young women with their lives ahead of them. Ashleigh was a big part of working with the Patchy lasses (they miss her!) and since she has left Savannah has taken on that role of building relationships and developing the work with these groups.

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

“This group is for us Mams not for the bairns, only time we really get together” – Lass 22

“Can we go Go-Karting, the lads always go but we’d like to do it aswell yina” – Lasses group

“I was sceptical of coming at first but once I spoke to savannah for abit I loved it” – Lass 16

“The sailing was soooo good, it made it easier to only have girls on the boat” – Lass 17

“How can you get carrots in a tin?” Kenzie amazed at tinned carrots

“I’m finally up to trot but my a*** is killing and legs feel like jelly” – Lass 16 after horse riding

“What did you wear shorts for when you knew we were going 12,000 feet up?” – Karl to the lasses in Chamonix

“Andi I’m not doing that” – Lass 16 being pushed out of her comfort zone

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Minibus & Exploring

Patchwork’s minibus’ are some of our main assets, it allows us to explore the wider range of the Northeast. Giving us the ability to explore a different range of activities and history around us. Having two minibuses gives us opportunities to take advantage of larger groups or even two different groups to different areas. We’ve been able to expand further to places such as the Lakes, Scotland, Teeside, Hartlepool and many more amazing places.

They are also great tools for youthwork…a worker could have strategically positioned themselves on the seat next to you and you’re just building a relationship out of nowhere.

Our minibus is part of our identity, everyone in Benwell has fond memories of driving along, whether it’s the old CD player or the new Bluetooth the tunes are the same; BOUNCING!

“Take us on a mission in the bus “– Lad 19

“2h drive is long… can I connect?” Lass 16

“Can I sit in the front seat!!! – EVERYONE

“I can clean the bus for yous if yas want” – Dean, Ben, DK “It’s fun because Karl’s the best Driver” – Gary Pipey Lads “Gives us more freedom to explore” – Chilled Charvas

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Social Media:

Patchwork mainly operates via Facebook with 3 different pages linked to the project. It allows us to showcase to the community, photos of the activities we do with groups or any local community updates. We mainly use messenger to get in touch or chat to people. This could be from chatting to groups, 1-2-1 support or even a friendly video chat catching up with staff and live updates.

We’re also on tiktok “michealpatchybell” where we post videos and merge into one amazing video to showcase what we’re doing within the community and showcasing activities. It’s fantastic as we’ve seen a increase of young people using tiktok, we therefor can use the page to connect with young people whilst also showing different safety aspects to social media.

“That was a mint day thanks for taking us” Blake Donaldson (Tiktok Comment) “Being able to look back at the memories and amazing day’s out we’ve had and now showing my kids” – Anonymous

“Can we be on patchys TikTok” – Lasses 12

“Seen the photos you put on the other day, they were sick” – Lad 16

“My portrait has been using for someone’s website” – Thomas

“I seen your status of the swimming for the kids this week, we’ll be coming along” – Mam of yp

Under 12’s at Patchy 2

We run a weekly sessions on a Thursday at our second building for 8–12-year-olds. During these sessions we do a whole range of activities such as cooking where the young people can learn new cooking skills, arts and crafts being able to unlock their creativity and create things such as paintings, cards or seasonal activities.

We also do sporting activities for the young people who are interested in sport or just want to play some football, basketball, table tennis. And we also do bike fixing, if a young person brings in a broken bike of theirs then we can try and help them fix it during the session.

Also during the session, we try to speak to the young people and try to see what is happening in their life and see what is going on but also trying to teach them how to behave and respect each other.

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

“Can we get the table tennis out?” – Lass 11

“Can we make some TikToks?” – Lass 10

“We love to help cooking, last week we made chicken burgers from scratch” – Lad 11

“Look at this card I’ve made for my Mam for Mother’s Day” – Lad 9

“I love when its someone’s birthday at patchy cos we get cake” – Lass 9

“Can we make sllliiimmmeeee” – Everyone

Patchy bairns

As the project has been around for years, we have watched families grow and worked with multiple generations. Some of the biggest families in our area grew up in our project and brought their siblings and then eventually their own children. Through connection and trust families now want their children involved with the project to learn, ask for help if needed and mostly have fun. This shows how much patchwork is valued in our local area.

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Muvass Group –

A small group of the mams and their children have been meeting each week at Patchwork. This is mainly a group of friends who were mainly in the old Hoyed Together Group were losing touch with each other since having children or getting pregnant. They and their bumps, babies and toddlers like to meet up at Patchwork on a Thursday afternoon and catch up with each other socially. This gets them out of the house and reduces isolation. The group also includes It also offers a chance to go out in the patchy bus as a group. Trips out have included Morpeth Carlisle Park, Whitehouse farm and Mr Twister Soft Play and sensory rooms. Most of the young women came to Patchy when they were younger and love to talk about their memories of what they did at Patchy in the past

“Thank your mam for the blanket for my baby Andi” -young mam

“Me bairns a patchy younging” young mam

PATCHWORK PROJECT (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

“I’ve started breastfeeding on me own, I didn’t plan it, it just felt so natural to do and was really bonding with my baby” My midwife is so proud of me and I am myself. (young mam)

Volunteering

Volunteers are essential for patchwork, by helping with groups, this could be by helping plan the patchy 2 session, turning up to sessions for an extra pair of hands for the staff. They also can help during our drop in sessions during the day, when we have busy days our volunteers help people in ways they can, by keeping them entertained or making them feel welcomed whilst other members of staff are busy.

Patchwork put a lot of work into making sure we allow the right people to volunteer and make sure they are qualified by helping them achieve their safeguarding qualification, or if any training comes up that we think would benefit them. Patchwork runs a youth panel where some of our volunteers take part in this and try to make the project and community a better place for everyone, they do this by planning different social action projects.

PATCHWORK PROJECT (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Volunteers and staff relaxing at the end of the summer fun day

“I enjoy volunteering as it allows me to help people when necessary and gets me out the house.” – Lad 17

“volunteering helps me learn new skills I can take and use in other jobs I may get and goes good on my CV” – lass 17

“I enjoy volunteering because it gives the patchy staff an extra pair of hands especially on a Thursday at patchy 2 when it gets hectic” lass 16 “I volunteer cos I like to be around the project, I can meet people but also spend time with the staff” – Lad 16

“It gets me out my comfort zone, which is hard but I like it” – Lass 16 “We’ve been on this panel the longest now and we’ve done so much, Pamper hampers, ice skating, summer fundays, backlane art project” – Abbie, Laura

Events:

Community swimming trip

Following on from our success last year we booked Elwick pool again for 4 pool sessions this year. Some back to back with different age groups catered for (older have the inflatable!!). This pool has a slope and dive area so it caters for all. Great to see more dads and babies, mums and aunties and babies to teenagers all coming together to make it a huge success. Great to hear more families have been booking to go themselves and enjoy the assets on our doorstep and the joy of low-cost fun in local community owned swimming pool.

==> picture [81 x 15] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Sa Sy
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PATCHWORK PROJECT (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Christmas

Our now traditional Xmas treat looked forward to all year….A winter ice-skating trip. Now a pretty expensive annual event as we work with so many more children and young people, but its such fun, brings people together and has memories that last a lifetime. We take approx 10 groups ice-skating each year.

3. Public benefit

We review our aims, objectives and activities each year. This review looks at what we achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous 12 months. The review looks at the success of each key activity and the benefits they have brought to those groups of people we are set up to help. It also will look at whether as young people grow and develop, we are continuing to meet their needs, listening to their ideas and if we need to change structures, timetables or groups to continue to progress educational development.

The review also helps us ensure our aim, objectives and activities remained focused on our charitable objects/articles.

The trustees refer to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aim and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, the trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives they have set.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

4. Financial review

Patchwork project are funded by a variety of income. Mainly grant income from charitable trusts and foundations. Also some local authority funding. Occasional government contracts when they match our aims and objectives.

The total income for the year was £263,104 (2024: £214,105)

This income is allocated across respective funds on the Statement of Financial Activities in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice.

The Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 May 2025, shows a net surplus across all funds of £5,303 (2024: deficit £55,498).

The Balance Sheet at 1 June 2025 shows total funds carried forward of £289,737 of which £70,798 are restricted funds.

Free Reserves breakdown:

Free reserves total £218,939

£129,000 is allocated as project reserves. In accordance with our reserves policy (2025 – see excerpts below **)

£58,704 is designated for future woodland project*

£2,738 is designated for future minibus repairs

£10,000 is designated for future unknown but expected costs to heating system

£24,902 Unrestricted fund (within the objectives of the charity)

*Designated funds:

£58,704 has been allocated for an upcoming project which will link children and young people more closely to a piece of woodland. This land will be transferred to Patchwork in 2025. It will enable children and young people to undertake environmental activities, including camping, bushcraft and forest activities. The money will include spend on capital costs as well as specialist labour, support and skills. The project spend from this pot will cover a 3-5year period. After which the ongoing costs of the project will come from core costs.

**Taken from the reserves policy (2025):

3.2 Reason for holding reserves

3.2.1 Patchwork Trustees have identified the main reasons to hold adequate levels of reserves:

Part or fully fund project activities

Due to pressures on contract income being experienced the Trustees feels that reserves should be utilised for the benefit of those who the organisation exists to support. The application of reserves to fund such activities will be presented to and approved by the Trustees.

Supplement the operational costs of delivering the core activities

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Patchwork has a sizeable running costs budget. The organisation is heavily reliant on external funders to meet such running costs. Monitoring and control of operational budgets is in place but should the organisation find that an emergency arises, or that in the year external funds are not sufficient to meet costs arising, or should the organisation find that alternative sources of funds are not available to them the reserves will be used to supplement the running costs of the organisation.

To fund the organisation in an emergency or the need to close the charity The trustees feel that it would be prudent to hold in reserves ideally 6 months’ worth of running costs to provide for such an eventuality. If the charity entered into a period of less than 3 months running costs our exit strategy would be triggered.

Currently:

Annual budget is in the region of £258,000. With salary costs £168,000 and £90,000 running costs. 6 months reserves is therefore £130,000. If funds reach £64,500 this will trigger our exit strategy.

3.3 Level of reserves held

3.3.1 The Trustees have considered the financial circumstances and other relevant factors and agree that as a minimum there is one factor that should be accommodated in reserves to support the operational requirements of the charity. Funds should be held in reserves;

To fund the organisation in an emergency

3.3.2 The reserves should not fall below the minimum reserves level in order to support good governance and a managed exit period. This will cover known liabilities and an emergency situation for up to three month.

3.3.3 The level of reserves will fluctuate each year depending on the surpluses/deficits made by Patchwork. Any surpluses would increase the level of reserves. These additional funds may be used to fund projects or to support core operation costs. This will be decided by the Trustees. Should deficits occur in the year the Trustees would review the impact on the reserves and the required levels of reserves as set out in the policy above.

Unrestricted Reserves - Designated

The unrestricted reserves that are designated will be utilised for specific purposes. These reserves are known liabilities, commitments (e.g. approved amounts to fully or part fund projects) for Patchwork or have a donor with an influence on how the reserves are utilised. Patchwork would hold the amount necessary to cover such known liabilities and commitments.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

3.5 Unrestricted reserves - General

The unrestricted reserves that are general reserves will have no donor influence. Utilisation of such reserves would require a business case to be presented for consideration by the Trustees. The business case will be approved by the Trustees in the Board meeting if it is deemed to be good use of funds and meets the aims and objectives of the organisation.

5. Plans for future periods

Fundraising strategy:

Of course funding is a challenge. We are looking to bring our fundraising strategy to have a more sustainable base with longer-term, multiple year grants in order to create greater stability going forward.

This will also enable us to spot gaps in funding and be able to fundraise ahead of time so that projects can continue more fluidly. At the same time creating greater job security for those we employ.

Marketing:

We have developed a new website with little to none ongoing costs due to help from out trustees. This is aimed particularly aimed at funders and potential funders (we already do very well in communicating with those we work with) to help our fundraising strategy.

We also have a presence on TikTok very much aimed at, and for the benefit of children and young people. It records and recognises individual and group achievement. Very much owned and ran by staff and young people themselves, it is aimed at providing a lasting ‘memory’ for those who have taken part, and ‘capturing the joy’.

Investing in staff:

Ensure that we continue to fulfil the trustees directive of investment in the community via training and education.

Our senior worker has completed their Sunderland University BAhons in Informal Education and youth work

We have 1 worker about to complete their L3 youth work training. We have 2 workers entering their L3 youth work training.

Aside from this we also put staff and volunteers through training relevant to their role(s).

Sexual health and C’Card Food hygiene and allergy training Safeguarding children, Knife crime awareness, Gambling awareness, Play training 1[st] aid training including outdoors 1[st] aid and mental health 1[st] aid.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Volunteer development:

We will develop a more structured pathway for our peer volunteers to ensure that they receive the best support and development opportunities. Whilst giving their time to help others in the local community.

Continue to link volunteers in specific training which will develop skills and understanding.

Groups and activities

That we continue to develop and expand the groups and activities we work with. This includes group completion and celebration of achievements. New groups beginning. Continuing to be youth led with regards planning of activities, residentials etc. To continue to champion our work with Duke of Edinburgh Award as a ‘connector’ across friendship groups throughout Patchwork.

Bell Haven Woods

In accordance with our plans last year to introduce environmental projects/ bushcraft, camping and forestry activities, this piece of land in Rowlands Gill has now come into ownership of Patchwork Project. Named by the trustees in memory of our project manager Michael Bell.

Land stewardship requires woodland and tree surveys etc. Unfortunately, there has been a delay in bringing plans for education and use of the land forward due to the need to remove dangerous trees and make the land a safe place to take children and young people to. We hope to bring this project more into focus in the coming year(s).

PATCHWORK PROJECT (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

6. Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisors

Charity Name Patchwork Project Registered 1157186 Charity Number Registered 08510835 Company Number Trustees Mary Shearer John Pattison Resigned 08.12.2025 Carole Pattison Resigned 08.12.2025 Carol Hunter Dr Matthew Paul Marshall-Dent Chair Donna Partington Danielle Conroy Chelsea Dixon Dean Curry Paul Tighe Petra Ondrova Resigned 28.03.2025 Ashleigh Aylward Appointed 08.12.2025 Registered 83 Adelaide Terrace Office Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 8BB Independent MW Accounting, Bookkeeping Examiner and Training Woodgate House Wood Street Gateshead NE11 9NP Bankers Barclays Bank Plc Northumberland Street Newcastle NE1

PATCHWORK PROJECT (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

7. Structure, governance and management

Governing documents

The organisation is a Charitable Company Limited by Guarantee. Patchwork Project is registered charity with the Uk Charity commission (1157186) and is registered at companies house under company number 08510835.

The Company was established under a Memorandum of Association, which established the objects and powers of the Charitable Company and is governed under its Articles of Association, May 2014, adapted from its charitable objectives as an unincorporated charity known as Benwell young peoples development group in 2001.

In the event of a winding up any member (who is a director) undertakes to contribute to the payment of liabilities, such amount as may be required not exceeding the total of £1.

Recruitment and Appointment of the Board

The Directors of the Company are also Trustees for the purposes of charity law and under the company's Articles are also its members. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, at the Annual General Meeting one-third of the Directors, who are subject to retirement by rotation, shall retire.

Retiring Directors can be re-appointed at the Annual General Meeting. Trustees are selected on the basis of specialist skills and commitment to the objectives and aims of the organisation.

Appointment of Trustees

Trustees are appointed and can serve more than one term. Anyone interested in becoming a new trustee is encouraged to attend trustee meetings before applying for any vacant positions. Trustees are elected by members of the organisation at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and are eligible to stand for re-election each year. There is a minimum of three and maximum of 12 trustees at any given time.

Those wishing to become trustees are encouraged to attend some trustee meetings as attendees prior to offering any commitment.

Board Induction and Training

New Board Members are introduced to the work of the organisation and informed of their legal roles and responsibilities at an induction meeting. The induction and training programme for new Board Members includes: A briefing by the Chair and/ or Manager

An explanation of roles and responsibilities as a Board Member

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Copies of the main company documents including the Memorandum and Articles of Association and the Financial Statements

Copy of the business plan and most recent evaluation report

Copies of recent board papers including budgets and management accounts A copy of the Charity Commission publication "How to be an Effective Trustee" A copy of the governance structure.

Should additional trustee training be required, this is arranged and once a year a development day is held for all trustees and staff.

Trustees will be required to agree to a DBS check as part of our safeguarding procedures, and also to supply references if they are not previously known to the organisation.

Organisation

The Trustees meet a minimum of every 6 weeks and deal with the administration of the charity encompassing the strategic vision, project delivery, safeguarding, financial accountability, staff supervision, staff training and risk mitigation.

Further sub-groups of the trustees may organise from time to time to do more in depth research and then feed back to the wider group for consideration at trustee meetings.

The operational management of the organisation is undertaken by the paid staff team led by the project manager.

Risk management

The Trustees conduct an annual review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and systems have been established to mitigate those risks including:

• Dual authorisation procedures for authorisation of all transactions

• Supervision of workers and projects to ensure the consistent quality of the work

• Support of staff via appropriate training to their roles, as well as reflective supervision in/external, mentoring and mental health support as needed.

• IT systems management, back up and security etc

• The trustees are aware that the major risk to the organisation is lack of funding. Each quarter the risk is assessed when budgets are compared to actual spend and reserves are reviewed on a yearly basis to ensure that there are sufficient funds available to cover five months running costs and any possible redundancy costs.

• These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they still meet the needs of the charity.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

8. Trustees responsibilities in relation to the financial statement

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The trustees are required to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charity for the year.

In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to:

• select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.

• observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (Statements of recommended financial practice);

• make judgements that are reasonable and prudent;

• state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

• prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity.

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Approved by the trustees on ………………………and signed on their behalf by:

Mathew Marshall Chairperson

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES

For the year ended 31 May 2025

I report on the financial statements of Patchwork Project for the year ended 31 May 2025, which are set out on pages 39 to 51.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees (who are also directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2022 ("the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:

• h examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,

• h to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act), and

• h to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner's statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

• h accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; or

• h the accounts do not accord with such records; or

• h the accounts do not comply with relevant accounting requirements under section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

• h the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102).

I have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Michelle Wright (Feb 18, 2026 19:26:57 GMT)

Michelle Wright Woodgate House 5c Wood Street Gateshead Tyne and Wear NE11 9NP Date: 18/02/2026

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

(INCLUDING SUMMARY INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) For the year ended 31 May 2025

==> picture [523 x 426] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total
Funds Funds 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Income from:
Donations and legacies 6 13,214 3,953 17,167 9,747
Charitable activities
Grants and contracts 7 220 224,359 224,579 196,586
Investments 8 2,303 - 2,303 1,769
Other income 9 19,056 - 19,056 6,002
Total income 34,793 228,311 263,104 214,104
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
Operation of the charity 10 76,153 181,648 257,801 269,602
Total expenditure 76,153 181,648 257,801 269,602
Net income/(expenditure) ( 41,360 ) 46,663 5,303 ( 55,498 )
Transfers between funds - - - -
Net income/(expenditure) and net
( 41,360 ) 46,663 5,303 ( 55,498 )
movement of funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward 260,299 24,135 284,434 339,932
Total funds carried forward 218,939 70,798 289,737 284,434
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities

The notes on pages 41 to 51 form an integral part of these accounts.

Charity Number 1157186 Company Number 08510835

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

BALANCE SHEET

As at 31 May 2025

Fixed assets Tangible assets 17 Total fixed assets Current assets Debtors 18 Cash at bank and in hand 19 Total current assets Creditors:amounts falling due within one year 20 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Total net assets or liabilities Funds of the charity Unrestricted income funds Designated income funds Restricted income funds Total funds Notes	£ 16,864 281,046 297,911 ( 8,174 )	Total 2025 £ - - 289,737 289,737 289,737 18,497 200,442 70,798 289,737	£ 13,505 269,143 282,648 ( 8,672 )	Total 2024 £ 10,459 10,459 273,975 284,434 284,434 37,299 223,000 24,135 284,434

The company was entitled to an exemption from audit under s477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

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

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to small companies subject to the small companies regime and in accordance with FRS102 SORP.

The notes on pages 41 to 51 form an integral part of these accounts.

These financial statements were approved by the Board on:

and are signed on its behalf by: Matthew Marshall-Dent

17/02/2026

Matthew Marshall-Dent Matthew Marshall-Dent (Feb 17, 2026 08:19:14 GMT)

Chair of Board of Trustees

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

1 Accounting Policies

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:

2 Basis of accounting

2.1 Basis of preparation

These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) – Charities SORP (FRS 102), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.

Patchwork Project meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102.

2.2 Preparation of the accounts on a going concern basis

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. In making their assessment the trustees have reviewed and considered relevant information, including their annual budget and future cash flows. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the trustees have revised their forecasts to take into account measures that they can take with the current resources available to mitigate the impact of the current adverse conditions. The trustees are of the view that the immediate future of the charity for the next 12 months is secure and that on this basis the charity is a going concern.

3 Income

3.1 Recognition of income

Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the resources, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is more likely than not that the resources will be received and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability

3.2 Offsetting

There has been no offsetting of assets and liabilities, or income and expenses, unless required or permitted by FRS102 SORP or FRS102.

3.3 Grants and donations

Income from government and other grants, whether ‘capital’ grants or ‘revenue’ grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.

Income received in advance of the provision of a specified service is deferred until the criteria of income recognition are met.

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

3.4 Donated goods and services

Donated goods are measured at fair value (the amount for which the asset could be exchanged) unless impractical to do so.

Donated services and facilities are included in the SoFA when received at the value of the gift to the charity provided that the value of the gift can be measured reliably. Donated services and facilities that are consumed immediately are recognised as income with the equivalent amount recognised as an expense under the appropriate heading in the SoFA.

3.5 Volunteer help

The value of volunteer help received is not included in the accounts but is described in the trustees' annual report.

3.6 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank.

3.7 Income from membership subscriptions

Membership subscriptions received in the nature of a gift are recognised in donations and legacies.

Membership subscriptions which gives a member the right to buy services or other benefits are recognised as income earned from the provision of goods and services as income from charitable activities.

3.8 Investment gains and losses

This includes any realised or unrealised gains or losses on the sale of investments and any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year.

3.9 Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available to spend on activities that further any of the purposes of the charity. Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the trustees have decided at their discretion to set aside to use for a specific purpose. Restricted funds are donations which the donor has specified are to be solely used for particular areas of the charity's work or for specific projects being undertaken by the

4 Expenditure and liabilities

4.1 Liability recognition

Liabilities are recognised when it is more likely than not that there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to pay out resources and the amount of the obligation can be measured with reasonable certainty.

4.2 Charitable activities

Expenditure on charitable activities includes the costs of working with youth groups in the local area and other activities undertaken to further the purposes of the charity and their associated support costs.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

4.3 Governance and support costs

Support costs have been allocated between governance cost and other support. Governance costs comprise all costs involving public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice.

Support costs are those functions that assist the work of the charity but do not directly undertake charitable activities. Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

4.4 Irrecoverable VAT

Irrecoverable VAT is charged as a cost against the activity for which the expenditure was incurred.

4.5 Creditors

The charity has creditors which are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts.

4.6 Provisions for liabilities

A liability is measured on recognition at its historical cost and then subsequently measured at the best estimate of the amount required to settle the obligation at the reporting date.

5 Assets

5.1 Tangible fixed assets for use by the charity

Individual fixed assets costing £1,000 or more are capitalised at cost and are depreciated over their estimated useful economic lives on a straight line basis, a full years depreciation charge is applied in the year of acquisition and no charge is made in the year of disposal:

Fixtures & fittings IT and office equipment Motor Vehicles

Straight line over five years Straight line over three years Straight line over four years

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Analysis of income 6 Donations and legacies 7 Charitable activities Milburn Briel Fund Edward Family Trust Hattrick NCS Awards for All North East Combined Authority Other grants 8 Income from investments 9 Other income Newcastle City Council Ward Fund Donations and Gift Aid Income from grants and contracts Lottery Newcastle City Council Bank interest Other income Newcastle City Council Youth Key Fund Ballinger Charitable Trust Garfield Western Foundation Streetgames Community Foundation LGA Foundation Children in Need	Unrestricted Funds £ 13,214 13,214 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 220 220 Unrestricted Funds £ 2,303 2,303 19,056 19,056	Restricted Funds £ 3,953 3,953 20,000 20,000 - 53,310 20,000 5,000 8,500 - 15,000 - 231 19,023 1,765 17,100 17,800 20,000 6,047 582 224,359 Restricted Funds £ - - - -	Total 2025 £ 17,167 17,167 20,000 20,000 - 53,310 20,000 5,000 8,500 - 15,000 - 231 19,023 1,765 17,100 17,800 20,000 6,047 802 224,579 Total 2025 £ 2,303 2,303 19,056 19,056	Total 2024 £ 9,747 9,747 20,000 20,000 1,000 - - - 6,000 28,125 - 20,000 4,803 12,431 - 17,800 12,276 - - 54,151 196,586 Total 2024 £ 1,769 1,769 6,002 6,002

Income was £263,104 (2024: £214,105) of which £34,793 was unrestricted or designated (2024: £163,795) and £228,311 was restricted (2024: £50,310)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities

10	Charitable activities Direct costs Activities and events Support costs Governance costs Training costs Travel costs Staff costs Project staff costs Equipment purchases Office stationery and postage Insurance Independent examiner's fees for reporting on the accounts Bank charges Depreciation Repairs and maintenance Subscriptions & publications Legal and professional fees Office rent Utilities Telephone and internet Minibus expenses	Unrestricted Funds £ 31,002 55 - 851 22 5,178 11,312 - 6,706 1,730 730 4,325 1,072 1,618 500 490 10,459 103 76,153	Restricted Funds £ 135,958 1,037 720 2,507 - 4,442 14,667 5,400 10,484 151 538 378 1,069 4,159 - 138 - - 181,648	Total 2025 £ 166,959 1,092 720 3,358 22 9,620 25,980 5,400 17,189 1,882 1,268 4,703 2,141 5,777 500 628 10,459 103 257,801	Total 2024 £ 163,875 7,385 1,585 1,127 2,654 6,698 26,287 5,400 18,143 2,486 823 3,189 5,581 5,369 575 5,788 12,405 231 269,602

Expenditure on charitable activities was £257,801 (2024: £269,603) of which £76,153 was unrestricted or designated (2024: £58,986) and £181,648 was restricted (2024: £210,617)

11 Fees for examination of the accounts

Independent examiner's fees for reporting on the accounts	2025 £ 500 500	2024 £ 500 500

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

12 Analysis of staff costs and the cost of key management personnel

Pension costs (defined contribution pension plan) Salaries and wages Social security costs	2025 £ 146,913 11,010 9,037 166,959	2024 £ 146,518 11,503 5,851 163,872

No employee received remuneration above £60,000 (2024: nil)

The key management personnel of the charity, comprise the Trustees, and the Project Manager. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £34,657. (2024: £34,657)

13 Staff numbers

The average monthly head count was 7 staff (2024: 8 staff) and the average monthly number of full-time equivalent employees during the year were as follows:

The parts of the charity in which the employee's work Charitable activities	2025 Number 6.0 6.0	2024 Number 6.0 6.0

Sessional staff are hired on a project by project basis and are included within charitable activities as direct project costs as they typically relate to specific production or projects.

14 Transactions with trustees

None of the trustees have been paid any remuneration or received any other benefits from an employment with their charity or a related entity.

Transaction(s) with related parties

There have been no related party transactions in the reporting period.

15 Defined contribution pension scheme

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

The employer's pension costs represent contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amount to £9,037 (2024: £9,339). There was £776 outstanding as at 31 May 2025 (2024: £1,084)

16 Corporation Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objectives.

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

17 Tangible fixed assets Cost Balance brought forward Additions Disposals Balance carried forward Depreciation Basis Rate Balance brought forward Depreciation charge for year Disposals Balance carried forward Net book value Brought forward Carried forward 18 Debtors and prepayments (receivable within 1 year) 19 Cash at bank and in hand 20 Cash at bank and in hand Prepayments & accrued income Other accruals Taxation and social security Trade creditors Creditors and accruals (payable within 1 year) Trade debtors Accruals Independent examination of accounts Other debtors Pension	Fixtures & fittings £ - - - - SL 20% - - - - - - 2025 £ 2,540 2,403 11,921 16,864 2025 £ 281,046 281,046 2025 £ 1,957 4,941 776 500 - 8,174	Motor Vehicles £ 49,621 - - 49,621 SL 25% 39,162 10,459 - 49,621 10,459 - 2024 £ - 3,205 10,300 13,505 2024 £ 269,143 269,143 2024 £ 1,957 4,522 1,084 500 610 8,672	Total £ 49,621 - - 49,621 39,162 10,459 - 49,621 10,459 -

(A company limited by guarantee)

PATCHWORK PROJECT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

21 Events after the end of the reporting period

No events (not requiring adjustment to the accounts) have occurred after the end of the reporting period but before the accounts are authorised which relate to conditions that arose after the end of the reporting period.

22 Analysis of charitable funds Analysis of movements in unrestricted funds

For the year ending 31 May 2025

Unrestricted funds General unrestricted fund Designated funds Future projects Project reserves Minibus repairs Heating system Totals	Fund balances brought forward £ 37,299 60,000 143,000 10,000 10,000 260,299	Incoming resources £ 34,793 - - - - 34,793	Resources expended £ ( 76,153 ) - - - - ( 76,153 )	Transfers £ 22,558 ( 1,296 ) ( 14,000 ) ( 7,262 ) - -	Fund balances carried forward £ 18,497 58,704 129,000 2,738 10,000 218,939

For the year ending 31 May 2024

Unrestricted funds General unrestricted fund Designated funds Future projects Project reserves Minibus repairs Heating system Totals	Fund balances brought forward £ 90,877 60,000 - - - 150,877	Incoming resources £ 163,795 - - - - 163,795	Resources expended £ ( 58,986 ) - - - - ( 58,986 )	Transfers £ ( 158,387 ) - 143,000 10,000 10,000 4,613	Fund balances carried forward £ 37,299 - 60,000 143,000 10,000 10,000 260,299

Purpose of unrestricted funds

General unrestricted fund Designated funds Future projects Project reserves Minibus repairs Heating system

The 'free reserves' after allowing for designated funds

Fund set aside for the woodland project In accordance with the reserves policy Funds designated for future minibus repairs Funds designated for expected repairs to the heating system

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

22 Analysis of charitable funds continued

Analysis of movement in restricted funds For the year ending 31 May 2025

Restricted funds Community Foundation Ballinger Charitable Trust Duke of Edinburgh Milburn Briel Foundation Edward Family Trust Streetgames Lottery Children in Need Key Fund North East Combined Authority Hattrick Awards for All LGA Foundation NCS Other grants Totals Tynexe Newcastle City Council Youth	Fund balances brought forward £ - - 150 - - 24,215 - - - - ( 230 ) - - - - - - 24,135	Incoming resources £ 20,400 20,000 270 1,677 20,000 19,023 8,500 17,800 53,310 15,000 543 6,047 1,765 20,000 5,000 17,100 1,875 228,311	Resources expended £ ( 5,910 ) ( 11,667 ) ( 69 ) ( 1,677 ) ( 1,667 ) ( 43,238 ) ( 8,500 ) ( 17,800 ) ( 47,101 ) ( 3,197 ) ( 313 ) ( 6,047 ) ( 1,660 ) ( 11,287 ) ( 2,540 ) ( 17,100 ) ( 1,875 ) ( 181,649 )	Transfers £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - -	Fund balances carried forward £ 14,490 8,333 351 - 18,333 - - - 6,209 11,803 - - 105 8,713 2,460 - - 70,797

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

22 Analysis of charitable funds continued

Analysis of movement in restricted funds For the year ending 31 May 2024

Restricted funds Community Foundation Wellesley Duke of Edinburgh NHS Newcastle City Council Youth Virgin Money Foundation NCS Streetgames Key Fund Newcastle City Council Rise NE Newcastle City Council Health Bernicia Foundation Newcastle Building Society Newcastle City Council Ward Fund Newastle City Council Outreach Other grants Totals Ballinger Charitable Trust	Fund balances balances brought forward £ 7,470 10,000 4,613 260 9,075 28,199 23,342 - 9,900 - 8,000 4,612 5,915 7,083 3,000 - 9,518 58,066 189,053	Incoming resources £ - - - 500 - 12,431 - 17,800 12,276 4,803 - - - - - 1,000 - 1,500 50,310	Resources expended £ ( 7,470 ) ( 10,000 ) - ( 610 ) ( 9,075 ) ( 16,415 ) ( 23,342 ) ( 17,800 ) ( 22,176 ) ( 5,033 ) ( 8,000 ) ( 4,612 ) ( 5,915 ) ( 7,083 ) ( 3,000 ) ( 1,000 ) ( 9,518 ) ( 59,566 ) ( 210,615 )	Transfers £ - - ( 4,613 ) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ( 4,613 )	Fund balances carried forward £ - - - 150 - 24,215 - - - ( 230 ) - - - - - - - - 24,135

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the year ended 31 May 2025

22 Analysis of charitable funds continued Purpose of restricted funds

Purpose of restricted funds

Restricted funds represent income resources used for a specific purpose within the charity as identified by the donor.

Community Foundation To fund various projects including salaries Ballinger Charitable Trust To fund the youth project Duke of Edinburgh To deliver Duke of Edinburgh Award activities Milburn Briel Foundation To fund youth projects Newcastle City Council Youth To fund the delivery of the youth project Edward Family Trust To fund the Youth panel and youth work Streetgames To support holiday activities Children in Need Capital fund Key Fund To fund ideas presented to the panel North East Combined Authority To fund the youth project Rise NE To fund training of staff and volunteers Hattrick To fund activities for groups Awards for All To fund volunteer support LGA Foundation To fund a trainee/apprentice post Wellsley To fund the salaries of the full time staff Newcastle City Council Outreach To fund outreach/detached work

To fund various projects including salaries To fund the youth project To deliver Duke of Edinburgh Award activities To fund youth projects

23 Capital commitments

As at 31 May 2025, the charity had no capital commitments (2024 -£nil)

24 Analysis of net assets between funds

Other net current assets/(liabilities) Cash at bank and in hand Tangible fixed assets	Unrestricted Funds £ - 210,248 8,691 218,939	Restricted Funds £ - 70,798 - 70,798	Total 2025 £ - 281,046 8,691 289,737	Total 2024 £ 10,459 269,143 4,832 284,434

PATCHWORK PROJECT

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT

For the year ended 31 May 2025

8. Trustees responsibilities in relation to the financial statement

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

The trustees are required to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure of the charity for the year.

In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to:

• select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.

• observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (Statements of recommended financial practice);

• make judgements that are reasonable and prudent;

• state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

• prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation.

The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity.

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

17/02/2026

Approved by the trustees on ………………………and signed on their behalf by:

- Matthew Marshall Dent

Matthew Marshall-Dent (Feb 17, 2026 08:20:01 GMT)

Matthew Marshall-Dent Chairperson

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