2023
PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
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2023 AT A GLANCE
24 Young Adults Supported through RAMP
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7 RAMP graduates
2 New RAMP members
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
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UK TEAM Renewed vision and mission statements
Team expanded
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1 RAMP review process completed
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
A MESSAGE FROM OUR TRUSTEES
Welcome to the Pursuit Annual report for 2023.
After a personally difficult few years for our UK team, one could characterise 2023 as the Spring after a quiet Winter - looking back, evaluating and celebrating where Pursuit has been and making changes and plans for an even better future.
Over the course of the year, much time was spent reviewing our vision, mission and values, as well as the progress of RAMP. Our founders, Jane and Naomi, alongside our dedicated mentors, have been instrumental in shaping the RAMP programme, ensuring that it remains responsive to the evolving needs of our youth. Their efforts, coupled with the enthusiasm of our young people to give back to their communities, have been heartening to witness.
This year has held an important review by our partners in India, of the work that they do with children and families. They are recognising the need to pivot towards a more community-centered approach and we support this wholeheartedly. There is further information about the outcomes and impact of this review later in the report.
Perhaps the most significant highlight of 2023 was finalising our new vision and mission. Looking ahead, as a leadership team we are energized by the fresh perspective that 2024 promises to bring. While our journey continues to unfold, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering young people and strengthening communities.
Thank you for taking the time to read this report. We are so grateful to everyone who engages with and supports our work.
Andy Hickford
Chair of Trustees
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDERS
It is our privilege to share with you Pursuit’ annual report. We’re sure you’ll agree there is a great deal to be encouraged by as we refect on 2023.
Amongst our personal Pursuit highlights, April held a very special trip to Kolkata. We had the honour of meeting with RAMP candidates, both past and present, to review the programme. Such incredible wisdom and insight was gleaned from these amazing “ young people and their mentors, to help enrich and inform the ongoing development of the programme.
We also had the joy of being there to see seven of our young people graduate. As has become customary, there were games, speeches, cake… even a confetti cannon! As we stood next to each of them and took pictures in their hat and gown, we felt humbled and inspired afresh by the resilience, dedication and determination each has shown to reach that milestone.
But what absolutely delighted our hearts was summed up by a quote from one of our young people:
“ No one fears what will happen to them after they leave the homes anymore ”
To know that these young adults, facing the overwhelming challenge of leaving residential care, trust that RAMP will be there to support them, is a wonderful indication that we have been able to do what we set out to.
Other highlights include a very exciting new recruitment of an operations manager, and some brilliant team days to focus on our vision and mission.
As ever, we remain enormously grateful to each of our supporters who enable us to continue on in our Pursuit.
Until next year,
Janealam and Naomi Sheikh Co-Founders
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
OUR PURSUIT
OUR OFFICIAL CHARITY OBJECTIVE
The objectives of Pursuit International are the prevention or relief of poverty or financial hardship anywhere in the world by providing or assisting in providing Education, Training, Healthcare and all necessary support designed to enable individuals to generate a sustainable income and be self-sufficient.
OUR VISION
Personal relationships transforming an unjust world.
OUR MISSION
To build a relational community where all are changed in the pursuit of a world where circumstance does not limit opportunity.
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
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OUR VALUES:
We are relational
Community and personal relationships underpin all that we do. We put the needs of others before ourselves and are stronger when we work together.
We are dignifying & respectful
Our words and actions have power. We treat everyone with dignity and respect, recognising that we all add value with equal worth.
We are innovative
We will be creative in our approach, not letting the fear of making mistakes stop us from trying.
We have integrity
We tell the truth and are open about our motivations. We will be good stewards of what we have, strive to act ethically and take our social responsibility seriously.
We are loving
We will show grace and perseverance in all that we do. We believe in countless second chances, and dedicate ourselves to a love that goes the extra mile.
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
WHAT OUR PURSUIT LOOKED LIKE IN 2023
“
In 2023 I had incredible experiences working with young people with diferent and challenging backgrounds. It was a gift to listen to them, love them and support them with understanding and words of encouragement. I fnd a great pleasure serving and guiding them to become independent for themselves and for their families in the community.
”
[ Dennis, RAMP boys mentor since 2017]
Throughout 2023, our commitment to empowering young people raised in residential care remained steadfast, as we continued to witness their growth and development through RAMP. This year our young people continued to broaden their horizons, with many of them leaving their Kolkata comfort zone to gain new skills and experiences elsewhere..
One notable example of this expansion was the journey of one of our RAMP members, who dedicated eight months to honing skills in a coffee shop in Pune,
Maharashtra. Similarly, another member found themselves immersed in the art of baking in Siliguri for two months before returning to pursue further studies in the city.
In Chandigarh, a young individual undertook a seven-month internship, while another ventured out to Bangalore to work for an electronics company after completing vocational training, reporting back to us that he’s doing “exceedingly well”.
Our founders Jane’ and Naomi headed out to Kolkata in April, and spent time
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
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with present and former members of RAMP, and their mentors, reviewing the programme and making adaptations for the future. One thing that did our hearts good was that all of the young people noted the community outreach work they have engaged in at RAMP as some of their richest experiences in the programme. All of the young people were keen to explore more ways that they can meet the needs of people in their communities, and to find out how they themselves can financially support RAMP to “help the brothers and sisters coming up through the programme”.
April 3rd marked a significant milestone as seven RAMP members graduated, having successfully completed their courses, a testament to their dedication and resilience. There is nothing like a RAMP graduation ceremony, and it was wonderful to see friends, family,
mentors, young people and even a few members of the UK team there to support and celebrate our wonderful graduates in April.
The highlight was, of course, getting a chance to hear from our graduates themselves. Each were invited to share with those attending a little bit about their journey from leaving residential care, to finding their feet in the adult world. Their testimonies were inspiring. Each one has shown incredible resilience, and has grown enormously during their time in the programme. Each and every story was entirely unique, with each person facing different challenges. And yet we celebrated together that all are empowered and equipped to step into this next season. We know that they will continue to make an impact in their families and their communities. We couldn’t be more proud.
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
“
It’s was a great year with lots of experiences, meeting girls and also visiting to their homes and meeting some of their parents. It was a great experience with challenges, such as helping a young person move home and also just spending time together over tea. One highlight is that the girls’ health is also better than before, with most of them visiting the doctor to get help.
”
[ Nisha, our girls mentor]
Outside of RAMP, in reflection of our journey, Pursuit took stock of our vision, mission, and values, engaging in meaningful discussions between the team, trustees, and consulting with a social worker and a former RAMP member. While we reaffirmed that our values are as true now as they ever were, we recognised the need for a shift in how we put those values into practice, adjusting the focus of our vision and mission towards wrapping around families and communities. We spent a large part of 2023 honing our new vision and mission for the future, aligning us even more closely with the changing needs of the communities we serve - and not a moment too soon.
Our partners in india have recently undertaken a review of the work that they do with children and families to assess the sustainability of their projects longer term. This led them to make the decision to no longer offer care in residential homes for children. Instead, they are looking at wider opportunities to offer holistic programmes which will support entire families.
While this comes with a sense of loss for all those who have been involved with the residential projects over the years, there has been a global movement away from large scale residential homes, based on research around best practice for looked after children.
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
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We feel as an organisation that this was a positive and necessary step.
communities even more effectively than we have to date.
As a result of this change, several of the children had to return to their old communities, but we were pleased to be able to welcome two of the older young people into RAMP slightly earlier than anticipated in order to ensure they continued to receive the support they need. We are taking this opportunity to re-group and explore new programs. And as we look to the future, our hope is that our new vision and mission will enable us to support children in these
We’re so energised by this fresh perspective for the years ahead. We’ve been moving in this direction for a while, but it was wonderful to finish the year with it written down, in black and white, who we are and what we’re going to achieve in this new season. But as we’re talking about 2023 right now, you’ll have to wait until next year’s annual report to see our shiny new vision and mission in action...
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
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STORIES OF HOPE AND JOY
As well as our RAMP graduation, there was plenty of hope and joy in winter 2023. Our young people had a great time in the community, meeting with unhoused people and those facing a tough time in winter and giving out blankets to those in need. Many of our young people talked about experiencing the joy of giving and touching the hearts of their community.
RAMP also got out into the community the week before Christmas, singing Christmas carols. Dennis shares, “We had amazing time sharing Christmas Carols together and reaching out in the community with love and care. We had a lovely time singing in the community and handing out chocolates to the children and families in different places in Kolkata.”
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ANNUAL REPORT 2023
What our young people have shared about 2023:
“
2023 was a year full of lessons. I have learned a lot and am still learning new things every single day. I have gone through many life challenging hurdles this 2023 and I have happily faced the challenge and I have a new hope everyday. Thank you everyone who prayed for me. It was really a blessing to me. I am always grateful to everyone who has supported me.
”
[A member of RAMP]
“
2023 was a good start for me as I got an opportunity to come down and work in the southern part of India. I am currently working at an Artisanal Chocolate Factory / Cofee Bar here in Karnataka, Mysore. I have been learning the Art of making craft chocolate and Cofee. Learning new things and being adventurous is what I am pursuing at the moment. Thank you Ramp for your support, I am really grateful to Pursuit for helping me with the adventure.
”
[A member of RAMP]
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
GIVING AT A GLANCE
TOTAL INCOME £20,418
REGULAR DONORS 47 at the end of 2024
TOTAL EXPENDITURE £21,228
in 2023
- Promotion
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-
Communication
-
Fundraising
was undertaken free of charge by volunteers
£6,228
- Administration
£15,000
- Spent directly on our projects and those we support
We have a reserves policy that states our reserves must not fall below our running costs for six months.
Primary Bankers:
Barclays Bank PLC, Chapel House, 1 Chapel Road, Worthing BN11 1EX
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ANNUAL REPORT 20223
OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Trustees recognise their obligation to ensure that the funds of the charity are used for public benefit.
In 2023 the following served as trustees:
Andrew Hickford Sue Jenkins Steve Tucker
Pursuit International is a CIO - Foundation (registered 26th October 2016) with a Governing Document. The minimum number of trustees is three. Trustees are appointed by resolution at a properly convened trustees meeting. In selecting trustees, the charity trustees must have regard to the skills, knowledge and experience needed by Pursuit International.
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PURSUIT INTERNATIONAL
OUR TEAM
In 2023, the following served on the team:
As well as a Board of Trustees, Pursuit International has an Executive Management Team who looks after communications, finance and other day-to-day activities that make the organisation run.
Jane’alam Sheikh Naomi Sheikh Ruth Brown James Cobbett Rebecca Little Phil Papps Piero Regnante Chloe Satchell-Cobbett
The team comprises both volunteer and paid members.
JOIN THE PURSUIT
FOLLOW
GIVE
If you’re down with the kids you can check us out on Facebook and Instagram. But the real magic happens when you sign up to our mailing list: contact@pursuitinternational.org
FUNDRAISE
If you want to get involved and spread the word, that sounds flipping brilliant to us. Head to our website to download our fundraising pack.
On average, an entire month of RAMP costs just £100 for one young person. You don’t have to give us £100 (although if you would like to that would be lovely) but a little goes a long way in Kolkata. £12 provides a month’s rent in safe accommodation, and £30 could give a month of life-skills training and mentoring. But whatever you can afford would be brilliant.
pursuitinternational.org/donate
pursuitinternational.org/fundraise
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Registered Charity number: 1167084 (England & Wales) Registered Address: Pursuit International, 79 Upton Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN13 1BY
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Pursuit International Charity Number 1167084 Receipts and Payments Account Including Independent Examiner’s Report Year to 31[st] December 2023
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| RECEIPTS Donations Donations for Projects TOTAL RECEIPTS PAYMENTS Charitable Activities Promotion & Fundraising Administration TOTAL PAYMENTS NET RECEIPTS/(PAYMENTS) CASH FUNDS AT 1.1.22 CASH FUNDS AT 31.12.23 BANK ACCOUNT Barclays Bank PLC Account Number 70610968 At 31.12.23 |
2023 2023 2023 General Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds e £ 14,096 £ 14,096 £ 6,322 £ 6,322 £ 14,096 £ 6,322 £ 20,418 £ 6,533 £ 8,467 £ 15,000 £ - £ - £ - £ 6,228 £ - £ 6,228 |
|
|---|---|---|
| £ 12,761 £ 8,467 £ 21,228 |
||
| £ 1,335 - £2,145 -£ 810 £ 72,291 £ 3,067 £ 75,358 £ 73,626 £ 922 £ 74,548 £ 73,626 £ 922 £ 74,548 |
||
Signed on Behalf of the Trustees
Signed: Sue Jenkins Print Name: Susan Jenkins Date: 23.5.2024
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Pursuit International Charity Number 1167084 Receipts and Payments Account Including Independent Examiner’s Report Year to 31[st] December 2023
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Independent Examiner’s Report
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Pursuit International (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31st December 2023.
Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner
As the charity trustees of Pursuit International, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and that an Independent Examination is needed.
Responsibilities and Basis of Report
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145 (5) (b) of the Act.
Independent Examiner’s Statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
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the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Signed: D. Doherty Print Name: David Doherty
Date: 23rd May 2024 Address : 32, BN14 7ER
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