CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Trustees, Annual Report for the period From 1 St April 2025 Period start date To 31 sl March 2025 Period and date Charity name: The Together Centre Charity registration number: 1173335 Objectives and Activities SORP referon¢tr Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document Para 1.17 The Together Centre has a vision to make the centre a place of possibiLity. We wantthe Centre to be a place where people can come together, feel safe, well and happy, learn, grow and feel a sense of pride and ownership. The centre aims to support and provide forvuLnerable individualslfamilies struggLing through the financial economic crisis. We also envisage the Centre to be a hub of creativity and achievement, with 8ccess to beautiful and accessible green spaces. To provide community resources and facilities for all to use, but with a specif ic focus on vulnerabLe families. To provide a range of inclusive 8Ctivities for the above to participate in. Low-cost food provisions. Low-cost second-hand clothing, household items and furniture. To provide an introductory space for mental he81th services and to offer healthy eating advice and promote exercise in-house. To help people, particularly vuLnerabLe families, to access services and facilities to improve their wellbeing. To develop a community presence as an inclusive, creative, and 'green' hub. Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. Para 1.17 and 1.19 To further or benefit the residents of Tameside and the neighbourhood, without distinction of sex, sexual orientstion, race or political, religious or other opin ions by associatingtogether the said residents and the local authorities, voluntary and other
organisations in a cotnmon effort to advance education and to provide facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation and leisure time occupation with the objective of improvingthe conditions of Life for the residents. In furtherance of these objects but not otherwise, the trustees shall have power: To establish or secure the estabLishment of a community centre and to maintain or manage or cooperate with any statutory authority in the maintenance and management of such a centre for activities promoted by the charity in furtherance of the above object, Nothing in this constitution shall authorise an application of the property of the CIO for the purposes which are not charit8bLe in accordance with [section 7 of the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotlandl Act 20051 and Isection 2 of the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 20081. Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit Para 1.18 The trustees confirm that they hav8 had due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in exercising their powers and duties. In line with this guidance, the trustees ensure that the charity's activities are carried out to further its charitsbLe purposes for the public benefit. The Together Centre operates to benefit the residents of Tameside and the surrounding areas without discrimination. Our services and activities are designed to provide inclusive support, promote wellbeing, and improve quality of life for vuLnerabLe individuals, families, and the wider community. The trustees regularly review the charity's work and policies to ensure that our resources are used effectively and that our activities continue to deliver clear and measurable public benefit. Additional information (optlonal You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about: SORP reference Policy on Grant Making This section is currently under development. The trustees recognise the importance of having a clear grant making policy and intend to complete and include itinthe next annu8L Para 1.38 Policy on grant making
report. Policy on Social Investment This section is currently under development. The trustees recognise the importance of having a clear policy on social investment, including program-related investments, to guide how the charitvs resources may be used to further its charitable objectives. Work is ongoingto develop and formalise this poIiGy, ensuringthat any social investments are made prudently and align with the charity's mission and regulatory requirements. The trustees intend to include a comprehensive social investment policy in the neKt annual report. Para 1.38 Policy on soci21 investment including program related investment Volunteers continue to play a vital role in supportingthe work of The Together Centre. Their commitment and diverse skills help to deLiv8r many of our seNices, including running the charity shop, assisting with the food pantry, leading activity sessions, and supporting our community garden and allotment projects. Currently, we have 37 active voLunteers who collectively contribute around 110 hours per week, which equates to over 5,700 hours annually. Valued at the national minimum wage for illustrative purposes, this represents a contribution worth approximately £65.000 per year. Our volunteers not only extend our capacity but also enrich the community spirit of the centre. We are committed to supporting and valuing our volunteers through regular training, recognition, and providiNg a welcoming environtnent where they can develop new skills and social connections. Para 1.38 Contribution made by volunteers Other
Achievements and Performance SORP reference Summary of the Main Achievements Over the past year, The Together Centre has made significant strides in improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and families in our community. Through our inclusive range of services 8nd activities, we have provided essential support that addresses both immediate needs and longer-term weLlbeing. Our charity shop continues to offer affordable clothing and household goods, helping families stretch their budgets while reducing waste. The food pantry has supported an average of 43 people weekly, rescuing thousands of kilograms of food thatwould otherwise have been wasted and providing nutritious meals for those in need. This not only aLLeviates food insecurity but also contributes positivelyto environmental sustainability. We have expended our social enterprise activities, including gardening support for older adults and a handyman service that enhances ttome safety for survivors and victims of domestic violence. These initiatives have empowered individuals, improved quality of Life, and strengthened community resilience. Our dedicated voLunteers havo been instrumental in delivering these services, contributing thousands of hours and fostering a welcoming, supportive environment. Beyond direct support, The Together Centre has helped foster social incLusion and community cohesion, creating safe spaces where people can connect, learn, and grow. Our specialized groups for children, people with autism, and those with stoma bags have provided tailored support and a sense of beLonging. Collectively, these achievements demonstrate our commitmentto malcing 2 meaningful, positive difference in the lives of our beneficiaries and the wider societywe serve. Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity's work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. Para 1.20
Additional Information (optional) You ma Ghoose to include further statements where levant about: The trustees intend to develop this section In the coming year to provide a detailed summary of progress against the charity's strategic objectives. Achievements against objectives set Para 1.41 Perfomiance of fundraising activities against objectives set Para 1,41 Investment performance against objectives Para 1.41 Other
Financial Review Review of the charity's financial pasition at the end of the period Para 1.21 The trustees have maintained close oversight of The Together Centre's finances throughout the year. Following 8 period of scrutiny and significant reductions in staffing last year, the charity is now in a much stronger financial position. We have successfully produced and implemented our first financial reseNes policy, marking an important step towards long-term sustainability. Grants and donations have increased significantly, rising from £27,950 to £79,859, providing vital unrestricted income to support ourwork. Together Services, our social enterprise, has expanded its reach by introducing gardening supportfor people over 55 who need help maintaining their outdoor 8paces. This initiative has been popular and increased income by 27¥D-from £44,070 atthe end of 2024 to £55,932 at the end of 2025. Additionally, Together Seniices began a handyman contract with Jigsaw Homes, domestic violence project, Sanctuary, which helps secure the homes of vulnerable women with security measures such as cameras, window locks, chains, and lighting. Having a trusted charity attend to these sensitive needs has been invaluable in supporting these women's safety and welLbeing. The trustees remain committed to managing resources prudently while ccntinuingto develop service8 that meet the evolving needs of our community. Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held Para 1.22 The trustees have established a resetves policy to ensure The Together Centre maintains suff icient unrestricted funds to manage financial risks and safeguard ongoing charitable activities. Reserves are held to provide a financial buffer against unforeseen shortfalls in income, unexpected expenditure, and periods of operational change or uncertainty. This enables the charity to continue delivering services and meeting commitments without disruption. The target level of reserves is set at three to six months of core operating costs, currently estimated at between £23,000 and £46,000.
This range is reviewed annually to reflect changes in income, expenditure, and ris1<. Amount of reserves held Par8 1.22 At the year-end, The Together Centre held unrestricted reserves of approximately £75,000, which exceeds the target range set in the reserves policy. Reasons for holding zero reserves Para 1.22 Not applicable. The charity currently holds unrestricted reserves as detailed above. Details of fund materially in deficit Para 1.24 There are no funds materielly in deficit. Explanation of any unGertainties about the Gharity continuing as a going concern Para 1.23 The truste8s have 8ssessed the charivs financial position and are satisfied that there are no material uncertsinties about the charity's abilityto continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future. Additional inforniation (optlonal) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about.. The Together Centre'8 principal sources of funds include grants and donations from local and national funders, income generated through our charity shop, and revenue from our social enterprise activities such as gardening support and handym8n servic8S. Fundraising activities include community events and appeals, which complement our core income streams. These diverse sources help sustain our services and community projects, The charity's prinGipal sources of funds (including any fundraising) Para 1.47 Currently, the charity does not hold significant investments beyond cash resenjes. The trustees are developing a formal social investment policy to guide potential future program-reLated investments and ensure any investments align with the charity's mission and risk appetite. Until this policy is f inalised, reserves are held prim8riLy in liquid. Low-risl< accou nts to maintain accessibility and financial stability. Investmenl policy and objectives including any social investment policy adopted Para 1.46 The trustees have identified several principal risks that could affect the charity's operations and sustainability, including: FIuGtuations in funding and grant availability, which could impact income Levels. Dependency on key staff and A description of the principal risks facing the charity Para 1.46
volunteers, with potential challenges in recruitment 2nd retention. Operational risks related to service delivery, including heaLth and safety and safeguarding. External economic factors that may increase demand for seNices while constraining resources. These risks are regularly reviewed, and the trustees implement appropriate mitigation strategies such as diversifying income, maintaining reseNes, and ensuring robust governance and operational policies. other
Structure, Governance and Management Description of charity's trusts.. Type of governing document i ii"us1 d¢¢d. ii)ydl Liiaiiei) Para 1.25 The Together Centre is governed by its Constitution dated 20th January 2017. The constitution sets out the charity's objects, powers, and rules governing its administration. How is the charity constituted? "porated association. CIO) Para 1.25 The charity is constituted as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation ICIOI, registered with the Charity Commission. This legal structure provides the charity with a corporate personality and limited liability for its trustees. Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees Para 1.25 Trustees are selected through a voluntary application process followed by election by the membership. This democratic process ensures that trustees are appointed based on their commitment and suitability to govern the charity effectively. The constitution does not provide for any external or automatic appointments. The trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity and meet regularly to oversee its operations and compliance with legaL and regulatory requirements. Additional information (optional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about.. New trustees receive an induction pack that includes the charity's governing document, recent financial reports, poLicies, and relevant guidance on trustee duties. They are offered an introductory meetingwith the Chair and other trustees to familiarise themselves with the charity's operations and strategic priorities. The charity SUPPOrts ongoing trustee developmentthrough access to training opportunities, workshops, and externaL resources relevant to their roles. Trustees are encouraged to keep up to date with best practice and regulatory requirements to ensure effective governance. Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees Para 1.51 The Together Centre operates with a board of trustees responsibLe for governance and The charit 'sor anisational
structure and any wider neOrk with which the charity works Para 1.51 strategic oversight. Day-to-day managernent, is led by the Centre Manager, supported by staff and volunteers delivering services. The charity actively coLLaborates with local authorities, voluntary organisations, and community groups to enhance service provision and community impact. These partnerships help ext8nd our reach and ensure coordinated support for beneficiaries. The charity maintains transparent and professional relationships with all related parties, including trustees, staff, volunteers, partner organisations, and funders, Any potential conflicts of interest are declared and managed according to the charity's confliGt of interest policy to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of the charity. Relationship with any related parties Para 1.51 Other Reference and Administrative details Charit name Other name the chari uses istered charit number Charity's principal address The To ether Centre The To ether Centre 1173335 Loxley House 287 Birch Lano Dukinfield, Tameside Greater Manchester SK16 SAU Loxle House
Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity Trustee name Dates acted if not for wholé ear Office lif any) Name of person (or body) entitled oint trugtee ifan Mémbership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Dawson Lane Mark Collier Ann Murphy Susan Quinn Jackie Lane Christine Salah Paul Rippon Lyndsey Bertenshaw Margaret Sidebottom Chair Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Treasurer/Trustee Trustee Membership 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Cor orate trustees - names of the directors at the date the re Director name ort was ap roved Narne of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole oar
Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others Description of Ihe assets held in this capacity Name and objects of the charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the Gustodian charity's objects Details of arrangements for safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity's own assets Additlonal information (optional) Names and addresses of advisers (Optional infomiation) Type of Name Address adviser Name of chief executlve or names of senior staff members (Optional information) Exemptions from disclosure Reason for non-disclosure of ke ersonnel details Other o tional information
Declarations The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees, report above. Signed on behalf of the ity's trustees Signature{s) Full name(s) Position (eg Secretary, Chair, etc) Dawson Lane argaret Sidebottom Chair Trustee Date 2410112025
THE TOGETHER CENTRE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315T hRCH 2025
THE TOGETHER CENTRE INDE THE FINANC TATE NTS FOR THE YEAR END D 31ST MARCH 2025 Page General Information Accountants, Report Trading and Profit and Loss Account Balance Sheet
THE TOGETHER CENTRE NERAL I FOR TION R THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2025 CHARITY: The Togèther Centre IRegislerÈd Charity no.11733351 AODftESS: 287 Birch Lan• Birch Lane Dukinfield SK16 SAU ACCOUNTANT: MB Service5 MCR Ltd 131 Brendon Drive Audenshaw Manche5ler M34 5RW Page 1
FINANCIAL STATEMENT5 FOR THE YEAR ENDEO 31ST MARCH 2025 AccouNTAr,5 REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE TOGrrHER CENTRE In accordance with in5trucllons given to ffle I have prepared without carrylng out an audll the artnexed financlal statemen15 f roffl the accounting records of The To£ether Centre and from informatlon and explanation5 supplied to rne, MS Servlces MCR Ltd 1316rendon Drive Auden5haw Manchester M34 5RW Page 2
Tho To thpr Proflt And Loss Account Por the entre nded 31 hlarch 025 2025 2024 IncornÈ Charity shop Fund rtlsln8 Grants and donatlons 7327 5,942 79,859 12,514 55,932 10,669 27,950 9,790 44,070 Ruom hire 5ervlces Workshops 176,955 112,060 Colt of sales Fund raising expenses Meal provision Rèsources Volunteer costs and expenses 2,101 12,423 4,155 141 7,268 6,910 38,216 Grogs Proflt 134,7(X) 73.844 Administratlon cost5 Accountancy Computer and sofware cust5 Depreciatlon svrance 530 618 335 445 2,016 2,807 3,275 266 2.556 1,768 6,470 423 Motor expenses ProfesslDnal fees stationery and printi118 Sundry expenses Telephone and internet Wages costs 4,022 2,843 265 3,530 3,471 78,374 94,058 Establlshment costs Property rèpairs Repalrs and rnaintenaThce 3,555 7,456 2.098 3,574 11.,011 5,6Y2 Net profltl-loss 45,315 -25,886 Page 3
The To ether alance S entre As at 31 March 2Q25 2025 FA. ul ment fixt Cost . blfwd Cost . addition5 Depn - blfwd Depn . charg res & fittin 5,167 2611 2556 784 166Q 672 876 2,835 3,507 FA . motor vehlcle Cost . blfwd Cost - addition5 Deph . blfwd Depn - charge 10,500 1050Q 3780 1344 2100 1680 5,376 6,720 8ank Curfent account 75,997 1817 77.814 30609 Petly cash 30609 Cr•dltors Accruals 530 1137 Net wage5 PAYE and Nl 227Z 694 3496 2485 3622 74,318 26987 1214 Net as3•ts Fundèd ay Profit and loss account Brought forwar'd Net profil 37,214 63100 .2588 82,529 37214 TotJl lunds 529 37214 Pa8e 4
CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Sectioii A Iiidepeijdeiit Exaiiiiiier's Report Report to the trujtèesl members of The Together Centre on accounts for tho yr ended 318t Marth 2025 Charlty no (rf any) 1173335 Set out on pages I report to the tnte£S on my examination of Ihg accounts of the above chlty (Yhe Trt) for the year ended 3110312025 Responslbllltles and As the charty trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the prepa10n basis of rftp of th& eJxounts in wth8nr* wilh the requirgments of the Cligtilifjs Acl 2011 nhe Acf ). I repgrt in respect of my exarninat'on of the TNSt'8 &counts carried out under section 145 of tho 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Direclions given by the Chaiity Comissii untsr 145(5Xb} rf Ihg Ad. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have CO to my attention in connectlon with the examination which gives me cause to believe thal in, any material res[&.. accounting records were not kept in a¢GOrdan with secti¢)n 130 of IheArt QT the accounts do not accord with the accountlng records Independent examinerfs statement I have no conM$ and have come across no other rnatters in connectton with the examinallon lo whi¢h attention should be drawn In order to enable a prop8r understar7ding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: Dats: 2210112026 Name: J V Fidler Relevant professlonal quallficatlon(s) or body lif any): F.C.C.A, Address: 80 Joel Lane Gee Cro8s, Hyde Cheshlre, SK14 5LF Soction B Disclosur Only compleie 17 thè &xaminer n&eds to nighlight matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners>. IER October 2018
Give here brief dètai15 of any itgms that tho examiner wlshas to disclosé. IER October 2018