OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

2025-03-31-accounts

Trustees' Annual Report for the period

Period start date Period start date Period end date Period end date
From 1st April 2024 To 31st March 2025

Section A Reference and administration details

Other names charity is known by

N/A

Registered charity number (if any) 1178577

Charity's principal address
Project 229,
Project 229,
227-229 Bedford Road
Kempston, Bedford
Postcode MK42 8DA

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

1
2
3
4
5

 Trustee name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
year		 Name of person (or
body) entitled to
appoint trustee (if
any)
Lionel Stewart* Chair of Trustees
Helen Sismey-Durrant* Deputy Chair
Sharon Griffiths* Safeguarding Official ending November 24
Bipinchandra Shah* General
Frank McMahon Finance
*Founding Trustee

Names of the trustees for the charity, if any, (for example, any custodian trustees)

Name Dates acted if not for whole year

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

Type of adviser Name Address

Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)

Rebecca Campbell-Grieve: Project 229 Manager

March 2025

TAR

1

Section B Structure, governance, and management

Description of the charity’s trusts

Type of governing document

Constitution

Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) How the charity is constituted

Trustee selection methods

Appointed by Project 229 / confirmed by trustees

Additional governance issues (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where relevant, about:

Project 229’s building is owned by The Bedfordshire Charitable Trust (formerly The Ibbett Trust) whose founder ‘Clifton Ibbett’ had a vision to develop high quality, accessible facilities for the local community.

Project 229 was officially launched in February 2005 after a 2-3-year period of development, building extension and renovation. Project 229 was originally part of a national charity (Spurgeons) until 31[st] March 2014 and became care-of The Ibbett Trust from April 2014.

Project 229 worked towards independent charitable status with support from The Bedfordshire Charitable Trust and The CVS Bedford. The Project was founded as an independent Charitable Incorporated Organisation on 31[st] May 2018 .

Project 229 hosts organisations running activities and services for the benefit of the local community. The Project also runs activities and services and is part of several partnership groups itself across the Borough.

Project 229 works with support from the Council for Voluntary Services (CVS) Bedford. It is also part of Bedfordshire Advice Forum (BAF). Project 229 is represented at other meetings and forums with specialist areas of work across the Borough.

Project 229 (CIO) had 5 Trustees (4 of whom were founding Trustees). One of the trustees ended their tenure during this year (November 2024). The board sustained 4 Trustees for the remainder of the year.

In November 24, some of the Project 229 Policies and Procedures were revised and/or reviewed by the Trustees.

www.project229.org

March 2025

TAR

2

Section C Objectives and activities

Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document

1. To benefit the residents of Kempston and surrounding areas , by working with local authorities, voluntary and other organisations, and local people to advance education and to provide facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation and leisure with the objective of improving the conditions of life for the residents .

2. To promote social inclusion for the public benefit by preventing people from becoming socially excluded (for one or more reasons), supporting people who are socially excluded and assisting them to integrate into society .

  1. Such charitable purposes for the public benefit as are exclusively charitable according to the laws of England and Wales as the trustees may from time to time determine.

Summary of the main activities undertaken for the public benefit in relation to these objects (include within this section the statutory declaration that trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit)

The Project 229 Charity trustees 'have regard' to the Charity Commission's public benefit guidance when carrying out activities to which it's relevant.

Project 229: Pro-Active Community Centre:

Project 229 is open as a pro-active community centre from Monday to Saturday for activities and services run for the benefit of the local community.

The statistics below and overleaf include the services that have reported back to us. They do not include some of the informal / incidental / additional support services provided during this time including those who held annual public events. A negligible number of groups did not provide data in time for this report and were based on accurate guestimates from previously provided data.

Face-to-face Provision at 229
(not including café stats orpublic annual events)		 24/25
No.
No. Different Organisations 44
No. of ActivityTypes 92
No. of subsidised sessions(part cost funded / a cost reduction) 6
No. of fullyfunded sessions 469
Total No. of face-to-face sessions at 229 1460
Attendances(based on actual and estimated) 13,912

Post COVID-19, some services continue to keep an element of online provision running. This has continued to expand the reach of the project and provide opportunities for those who would otherwise find it difficult to attend, to engage in activities that help to improve their wellbeing.

March 2025

TAR

3

Off-Site / Alternative Provision(Online etc.) 24/25
No.
No. Different Organisations 4
No. of ActivityTypes 9
No. of subsidised sessions(part cost funded / a cost reduction) 0
No. of fullyfunded sessions 202
Total No. of Other Alternative Sessions(e.g., alternative venue / online) 202
Attendances(based on actual and estimated) 982
Total no. of sessions(face-to-face and alternative) 1662
Total attendances(activities and services only) 14,894

Economically and financially, it has been a very challenging year. Some groups have decreased the number of sessions they run in a year; others have changed the way that data is collected which will have an impact on the overall figures we have been able to collect. In 2023, Project 229 had started recording the interventions through the café (having received a grant to support the development of the space from Bedford Borough / Compass Wellbeing funding).

We are now able to report on a full financial year. Café stats are always a ‘minimum’ number as it can be easy to miss people when it gets busy. We are looking to try and find new and more effective ways to collect useful data as the project develops.

Community Café at Project 229 Feb-Mar 23 2023/2024 2024/2025
No. Sessions(Open Days) 42 227 216
Hub Club Café Attendances
SoupService Attendances		 1431 9229 10822
1503 1767
Total Hub Club Café Attendances 10732 12,589

The development and incorporation of the space as part of our charitable provision has continued to exceed our expectations on every level.

Interventions / Attendances 23/24 24/25
Attendances at Project 229(Face to Face) 15085 13912
Attendances at Alternative Venues / Online 1152 982
Attendances at Café 9229 10822
SoupService Attendances 1503 1767
Total 26969 27,483

“It’s nice volunteering because you get to meet new people and feel like you are helping the community. It’s good experience and helps you develop new skills if looking for a job.

It’s good for your mental and social health. It gives you a sense of being useful. You can have a chat and a laugh. If you are feeling low here is always someone to chat to.”

‘You & the other volunteers are such a support to me - I love coming here because it keeps my brain active’

Volunteer

Hub Club Café Volunteer

March 2025

TAR

4

Support for New Projects and Groups

Project 229 continues to support the start-up of New Groups and activities with advice on safe set-up, sustainability and provides knowledge of the local area. The Project also provides advertising / design support for new activities that have a responsibility to publicly advertise their community services. (There are some groups who may not advertise due to the sensitive nature of the group). Support may also extend to working in partnership and applying for joint funding bids or providing support to those fundraising for their start-up costs.

Spotlight on services directly supported / managed by Project 229:

The Art Well (Open Arts for Positive Mental Health)

The Art Well (Launched in September 2019): An Arts for Health group for adults with mental health or social isolation needs is run by Art Psychotherapist Marion Major. The service was developed in response to the need for more Mental Health provision as services had either ceased to exist operating or had lengthy waiting lists. The Art Well provides an accessible service improving mental health through creativity. www.project229.org/artwell

The Art Well runs a referral group, peer support group and an online group, thanks to the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund .

The Art Well provides three groups across the course of a week, for 39 weeks of the year, plus additional pilot Eco Art Therapy groups in 2023/24.

Art Well Data Type 21/22 22/23 23/24 24/25 It has been so encouraging to see
the growth of this project over
several years.
Changes from the previous year:
There was a30% increase in
referralsover the year.
Face to Face Art Well Sessions 110 100 104 117
Face to Face Attendances 541 645 959 1114
Online / Alternative Art Well Sessions 42 40 40 39
Online / Alternative Attendances 336 220 152 312
Total Sessions 152 140 14 156
Total Attendances 877 865 1111 1426

Art Well Groups

Tuesday - An online group (for new referrals and continuing support): facilitated by the lead art therapist, a trainee art therapist, and a volunteer.

NEW Tuesday Café Group – a relaxed small group session in Hub Club Café, providing support for those eligible for the 12-week group but unable to start, as well as those who would struggle to access the group setting.

Wednesday - A 12-week face to face group for new referrals: This group has been accepting up to 12 attendees during each cycle. The lead art therapist and two volunteers facilitate it.

Thursday - A face to face managed peer support group which is offered based on the needs and circumstances of those who have completed the initial 12-week group and have benefited from engaging with the arts in the initial referral group. Members support each other and bring creative ideas. This group is managed by the lead art therapist, assisted by two volunteers.

March 2025

TAR

5

There were 118 referrals: 62 to the 12- week group 32 to the Eco Art group 11 to the online group 13 to the cafe group

The service moved to a 39week academic year rather than a 40 week.

Eco Art sessions increased from 6 sessions to 8 sessions , four times a year ( 32 sessions in the year)

The Art Well trialled new fortnightly café sessions from Jan - July to manage the increased referral rates. A new sessional staff member was recruited to support new developments and ongoing programme.

The following data is taken from the Art Well funder report Sept 24 to Aug 25.

The Art Well uses a nationally recognised health and wellbeing outcome measure (WEMWBS) as well as feedback forms and 1:1 assessments. Where possible, they complete WEMWBS (Warwick and Edinburgh Wellbeing Scale) outcome measure data and qualitative feedback from the online group.

The WEMWBS data from the 12-week group:

The data shows that 74.2% attendees (compared to 67% of attendees in 23/24) recorded show a meaningful positive change in wellbeing.

March 2025

TAR

6

Managed Peer Support Group: Peer Group supports those who would benefit from a longer-term intervention after the 12-week group.

Eco Art Therapy sessions (previously piloted in 23/24 in The Green Man Community Garden) are now a regular part of the Art Well Programme.

Sessions continue to run in the local park space at The Green Man Community Garden and offer a different type of therapeutic intervention outdoors. Sessions use natural and traditional art materials reflect on nature and the cycle of the seasons as inspiration.

March 2025

TAR

7

This year we were proud to be able to invite people to come and look at some of the amazing work produced by the Art Well Groups at a special exhibition , hosted and run by participants and staff.

The Art Well continues to be a very important and effective provision supporting the development of positive mental health .

It is a well-respected service locally, with good referral pathways . The service is integrated well within Project 229 and provides effective support for those wanting to experience other parts of the Project 229 offer.

March 2025

TAR

8

The SPACE Project

Project 229 has continued to manage the SPACE Project , to support young people aged 9-18 (school year 5 and up) in Bedford Borough who have been impacted by Domestic Abuse . www.project229.org/space

In 24/25 SPACE’s main funder was The National Lottery Community Fund . Additional grant funding support included the Bedfordshire and Luton Community Foundation .

Planets: Planets are mini youth clubs that run fortnightly during term time, the members of each planet make decisions collaboratively about what they will do during their sessions.

One to One Support:

Individual support offered to young people and provided by the play therapists, counsellors and staff.

Youth Advisory Board:

Every year, each small group (planet) collectively agree on a method for nominating a representative to join the advisory board. This group of young people help to shape the service, keeping in mind the views and opinions of their own groups. They help to plan activities and events , decide on how best to spend locally fundraised income and feed back to management. We aim for this group to meet once a month but sometimes they are also involved in recruitment campaigns including interviews for new staff and volunteers.

Activity Providers and Tutors

We work with many different local tutors, activity providers, creatives and artists who help to provide amazing opportunities for the young people at SPACE. Each term, the planets have access to updated choices booklets which provide them with ideas and suggestions (based on their interests as well as challenging them to try new things) to collectively agree on their term’s activities. These included a local potter, illustrators and artists, musician, poet and book enthusiast, sports leaders, science tutor, DJ, outdoor activities specialist, exotic animal enthusiast and much more!

Play Therapists

We work with Play and Clay Therapists and some talking therapy providers to offer opportunities for some of our young people who need additional support with managing their emotions . We have also been able to work with therapists who have requested work placement opportunities. Some of these have been managed because of the link with The Art Well (arts for positive mental health service) at Project 229. The Art Well are often contacted for placement opportunities and those who are looking for opportunities to work with young people have been referred to SPACE.

Transport:

March 2025

TAR

9

Staff:

The consultation period with staff evidenced that we needed a different approach and so we didn’t rush to recruit for the same staff role that had ended in 23/24. We were thankful for the conversations with funders and particularly the encouragement to be creative and flexible in our approach. We started to recruit for sessional staff who could boost the ongoing sessions and provide the potential to expand and unlock our waiting list. Our youth advisory board were a big part of our recruitment, and we were delighted to gain some new staff and volunteers .

CAFADA: ( Children and Families Affected by Domestic Abuse Project )

SPACE has been working with the CAFADA (Stirling University Partnership) research team since 2020. The team have been carrying out qualitative research with young people who attend SPACE. The project aimed to ascertain from the results the ways in which SPACE is effective in meeting the needs of young people who have experienced domestic abuse and identify any areas for improvement .

A Podcast project was launched to capture the views and opinions of some of the young people with support from CAFADA , The School of Social and Political Science (The University of Edinburgh) and an Audio Producer .

We are awaiting the full report from the ‘Children And Families Affected by Domestic Abuse’ research team. Podcast clips of some young people talking about their experience of SPACE are available to listen to at: www.tinyurl.com/cafadaspace

Parent Support:

SPACE worked with a local PT organisation (Transition Coaching) who have piloted a new programme called HerMove for females who have experienced domestic abuse – Focusing on taking back control, building self-worth, reducing anxiety, improving sleep, creating a sense of positivity and empowerment.

Parent / Carers from SPACE were offered access to the new programme starting in January 2025. Four parents from SPACE attended as part of a wider referral group. The programme finished in April/May with a special follow up session in July.

March 2025

TAR

10

The Nest: A new Therapy Space

We have been developing a new room at Project 229 for one-to-one support services . This includes Art, Play, Clay and Talking Therapies including Solution Focussed Therapy.

The Project Manager undertook a sponsored silence for 24 hrs a day for 5 days.

Developing links with new and existing providers at Project 229 and across Bedford will

strengthen our holistic project offer and enable us to better support the young people and some of their parents / carers.

The Nest was piloted by a few different therapists and launched in Spring-Summer 2025

March 2025

TAR

11

The following info is taken from the SPACE 6-month funder report:

March 2025

TAR

12

Solution Focussed Therapy One-To-One Sessions

As part of the services provided through Project 229, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief intervention enabling clients to identify their preferred pathway and ‘best hopes’ for the future . It looks towards problem solving rather than past difficulties.

The qualified practitioner is a volunteer, so the only costs are for clinical supervision and room hire. Working in a collaborative project ensures that where SFT is not the most appropriate support, clients can be referred on to counselling or other appropriate services. For clients who are wanting to find a way forward, but who are feeling ‘stuck’, it is an effective and helpful way to create sustainable change .

These sessions have been invaluable to Project 229 clients, many of whom are referred to SFT through other service providers .

In 2024/2025, 39 individuals have been supported (compared to 22 in the previous year). On average an individual was seen three times – an average total of 117 interventions .

Some clients were referred to other services and programmes including:

The following (anonymised) case study is from 2024/2025:

‘Milly’ self-referred to SFT from searching online. She was trying to come to terms with career disappointments, a relationship breakdown and a big decision regarding staying in the UK or returning home to Europe after many years here. The practitioner met with her five times, and she was able to work towards her preferred future and make the decisions that empowered her to move on. The practitioner was able to do a follow up zoom session after three months and life was much improved. The client was enjoying renewed childhood friendships, a new job and a new home.

‘Milly’ wrote:

I've started working 1:1 at Project 229 at a very difficult time of my life. I was fighting depression whilst faced with tough life circumstances, each of them alone having the potential to bring anyone down. The Solution Focussed sessions provided a safe container for me to be heard and seen. The Practitioner was empathetic, kind and highly professional. Also, truly skilled in asking the right questions and picking the right cues, she listened without judgement. I cannot thank you enough for this service. I am in such a different place one year on.

The Solution Focused services is highly valued and an integral part of the work of Project 229 in enabling people to move forwards and not stay ‘stuck’. It has effective referral pathways that also help support other projects and services within the wider hub and local community.

March 2025

TAR

13

Project 229 Interventions and Attendances:

Overall attendances have increased by 2% percent from 25,466 in 2023/2024 to 27483 in 2024/2025.

Despite small decreases in activity numbers due to the economic and financial challenges faced by many groups and organisations from the voluntary sector, it is encouraging to see overall growth.

The café space has increased referrals and is an integral part of the function of the charity and its services.

Other Project 229 Activities / Services

Project 229 continues to offer a bursary scheme encouraging groups to provide free of charge places for individuals who would otherwise struggle to access their services. This is on a professional referral basis only via Project 229.

Project 229 works with a network of partners to improve referral pathways and understands that many people who require support have multiple and complex needs. When organisations and projects are willing to work together, people are more likely to gain improved support and access to services.

Project 229 has continued working with services to develop online referral forms for groups that could be used for self / professional referrals. See ‘Projects’ menu at www.project229.org

Project 229 continues to produce newsletters, advertising, social media content and press releases to promote the services and activities that run at or are supported by the centre.

www.project229.org/whatsonnow

March 2025

TAR

14

Hub Club Café: A ‘not for profit’ warm space

Since being piloted as a community hub , meeting place and co-working space, Hub Club Café has developed into a not-for-profit café, providing opportunities for triage work leading to faster referrals and better connectivity with the local community. It is an integral part of the work of Project 229 in connecting people with services and support. It’s hard to imagine the project without it.

The café has far exceeded expectations in terms of reach, impact and growth . This was challenging to manage with such a small team, but the project has grown its volunteer workforce by providing volunteering opportunities ranging from short-term to long-term placements.

Staff and volunteers continue to signpost and support people towards accessing the help that they need .

Project 229’s services are supporting clients with complex, longterm and life limiting conditions. Adults with learning disabilities continue to regularly access the café as a safe place to socialise with/ without staff from support agencies.

Project 229 has continued working with Marmite Fine Dining Catering Ltd to provide nutritious, low allergen soups for FREE (or for a donation). This runs at the same time as the foodbank distribution centre while stocks last. Chef Ian has faithfully continued to support the venture throughout 24/25.

During 2024 / 2025 , the average was approximately 44 portions per service (compared to 37 in 23/24). We aim to continue the service and will apply for continuation funding if needed.

Ian Marvell: Marmite Fine Dining Catering Ltd

It’s the most rewarding thing I do – even though I do all the fine dining and private chef work. For a small effort, it makes a vast amount of difference to people!’

March 2025

TAR

15

There has been a 17.6% increase in take-up for Soup in 2024/2025:

The Kempston Advice Hub is well established with organisations committing to come in to provide free dropin support and advice to those who need support each week.

Hub Club continues to:

The chart (below) shows some of the recorded reasons for visiting Hub Club Café .

It is positive to see that beyond coming for drinks and snacks, the highest numbers included:

March 2025

TAR

16

Use of the café in 24/25 has increased by 17% compared to 23/24.

The chart (below) shows the breakdown of Hub Club Café users by type (where known).

Hub Club

The café continues to be an effective referral pathway for services at Project 229 and the wider community.

The type of referral is not always captured but the graphic (left) shows the variety of services that people have been signposted to in 2024/2025.

March 2025

TAR

17

Being mindful of the needs of people who come through the door continues to be a big part of the café function. Staff and volunteers take the time to chat to people, share information about up-and-coming workshops and undertake referrals to services. Training opportunities are available for volunteers including soft skills courses as well as food hygiene training and workplace specific courses.

The benefit of the café being low cost / not for profit enables people to feel comfortable to stay if they want to with no pressure to ‘leave a table’ or buy more drinks. Mindful colouring, books and games are always available.

The little library and swap station developed with support from Bedford’s ‘Men In Sheds’ continues to be very well used and supports the project’s environmental policy. It also provides a connection with the community at times when the café is closed.

Bedford Repair Café are now using Project 229 as their base to

run events, enabling

people to repair items rather than throw them away. These events are always well attended with significant percentages of items being saved from landfill .

Quotes from service users: 24/25

In the darkest This place is just so lovely – my skies, the stars husband and I were talking about shine the the Coronation Street Café where brightest - that’s everyone talks to each other – he how I see the said, “You don’t get that in real staff at 229.’ life” – I said - You do at Project Customer 229!’ Foodbank Volunteer

‘ I suffered from agoraphobia – this café has helped me – I’ve done more in the last two weeks – coming to the café helps me to get out.’ Customer

‘First time here, given a

‘what’s On’ and asked about working and ‘Just in case you don’t vacancies – was told hear how rewarding it is, about careers advice – I what you do – it really is! didn’t know it was a It helps so many people!’ community run café.’ Customer New Customer

‘I chose to meet here (for a difficult meeting) because this is my safe space and I am known here.’ Service User

‘You do wonderful things – great place here’ Professional

‘It’s really cosy in here’ Foodbank Client

March 2025

TAR

18

----- Start of picture text -----
Thank you all for what you do – when ‘Thank you for what you do here
I come here, I can relax – this place ‘This is a lovely at 229 – it means so much to
has saved my life.’ Service User place – we are me and makes such a difference
lucky to have it! to me and others. We don’t
We don’t have always say it, but we should!
‘Coming here lifts my mood – places like this Volunteer
the staff are lovely – I admire now’ Customer
you all!’ Service User
‘It’s the atmosphere –
people are so invested in
‘I’ve walked past here loads of times but never came in.
this place – it’s why I love
Picked up the what’s on and saw you did soup – it was
coming here – people are
lovely!' New Customer
so kind’ Customer
‘This place is so relaxing
‘This place is wonderful – it sounds
– staff and people are ‘It’s very calm
weird – but I’d live here if I could –
friendly and I love the here – it feels
it’s a place for me – it’s relaxing music.’ Customer / calm even
and inspiring.’ Service User Carer when it’s busy!’
Customer
‘It’s an oasis of calm here – fantastic
Tea and amazing sponge!’ Customer ‘ This place is LOVELY! It has
such a lovely feel to it!’ Repair
Café Customer
‘Please always keep ‘ It’s so lovely –
this place open – there are people ‘Thank you, you know when I come
there aren’t enough I can talk to – It’s here and I'm not quite right - after I've
places in the world just Joy!' been here, I always go home feeling
like this’ Customer Customer calmer.’ Customer
----- End of picture text -----

Additional details of objectives and activities (Optional information)

You may choose to include further statements, where relevant, about:

Volunteers are the beating heart of our organisation. So many of the activities and services at Project 229 would not be able to run without the dedicated support of volunteers from the community. Volunteers support Project 229 with administrative work associated with running the project including general administration, invoicing, and other finance support as well as practical support with handy-work and gardening. Hub Club is now well established and has a regular team of faithful volunteers helping to run the not-for-profit café each day. Volunteering placements are available for some people who have come through one or more Project 229 service(s) - building confidence, training and gaining new skills in customer service.

March 2025

TAR

19

Work experience placements for students at local schools and colleges run on a rolling programme. Placements range from short to long-term opportunities. We are proud to support young people who are part of our specialist youth provision (SPACE) as well as those from local schools and education providers supporting young people and young adults with SEND. Some services (such as the Art Well) provide opportunities for those training as therapists to gain experience and the client hours required to meet their learning objectives.

Some volunteers have continued working remotely to support Project 229’s admin function. This includes finance support and invoice creation . We are also thankful for the support of volunteers who help specific services such as The Art Well and many of our other support services. Another volunteer (trained by BRIEF) provides Project 229’s Solution Focussed Therapy service which continues to unlock pathways of support and hope for the future for many clients.

We want to also thank supporters from some of our donor / fundraising groups who not only raise funds but provide practical support at our community centre, including sweeping up the leaves outside and continuing to keep on top of our seasonal planting!

Project 229 is also indebted to groups, organisations and individuals who have raised funds to support the work of the project throughout 2024 / 2025.

Project 229 is a tiny organisation compared to many others – and it is testament to the fact that small things can still have a huge impact . We celebrate the tiny each and every day and as a team, try to help each other remember that something as small as a smile, a hello, an acknowledgement that people matter can make the biggest difference to someone.

The road ahead looks tough! It continues to become harder to source long-term funding to cover the less glamourous aspects of charity function including core-costs . The project will continue to be affected by changes made by groups and organisations, reduction in services and the economic and financial climate. We cannot always expect to ‘grow’ but we can be proud of the incredible number of interventions achieved with such a small team, made stronger by our lived experience, diversity and empathy.

Section D Achievements and performance

Summary of the
main
achievements of
the charity
during the year		 Statement from Trustees. Lionel Stewart Chairman
I have been involved in Project 229 since the idea was first floated many years ago. The
idea then was that Kempston needed a community project that served the residents from
birth to their twilight years. This report proves that not only was it needed but I am pleased
to say that we have the people and dedication to fulfil a mountain of individual projects
that together make Project 229 a flagship for the community.
The commitment and professionalism of our project manager Beccy, supported by equally
committed staff and volunteers, speaks volumes for the whole of Kempston.
The Hub (cafe) has developed into one of the friendliest safe places in Kempston and
Bedford. Visitors are welcome and supported according to their needs and the number that
are then referred to other agencies has increased.
The atmosphere is welcoming and warm especially for many that are struggling to
overcome anxiety issues. A hot drink and a chat is a good way of opening up a
conversation. Many of our volunteers have enjoyed the experience and some have moved
on to employment roles.

March 2025

TAR

20

Section D Achievements and erformance p

There is much to do in the coming years. The challenges, especially in respect of funding, are met head on and we work closely with local CVS to address the issue. I am grateful to all those who put time and effort into the running of Project 229 and know that their dedication will take us further in years to come.

Section E Financial review

Brief statement The Trustees had set aside some money gifted to Project 229 to put into reserves. Some of of the charity’s these funds will have to be used over the next financial year if additional funds cannot be policy on secured to support the core costs of the organisation. The Trustees continue to consider reserves additional funds to include in the charity’s reserves. This will be made separate from the charity’s general reserves.

Details of any funds materially Some restricted funding streams run in arrears. This is not a material deficit. in deficit

Further financial review details (Optional information)

You may choose to include additional information, where relevant about:

investment policy and objectives including any ethical investment policy adopted.

Local Fundraising and Donations including:

Grants including:

The chart (overleaf) shows the different income types recorded in 24/25 and does not include brought forward income from 23/24. This is broken down into RESTRICTED and UNRESTRICTED income:

There was a 44% increase in income overall in 24/25

March 2025

TAR

21

There was a percentage increase in non-grant funded income but overall, restricted income made up 68% of the project’s overall income. 97% of the restricted income came from Grants. Restricted income is for specific projects or agreed and funded purchases.

Cost increases have meant that although the project’s income has increased this year, as so much of the income is restricted and a limited amount is able to contribute to the running costs of the Project.

All areas of expenditure increased in 24/25. The greatest percentage increase in unrestricted costs in 24/25 included:

March 2025

TAR

22

The greatest percentage increase in restricted costs in 24/25 was for Salary / Staff Costs.

Overall expenditure percentages were very similar to last year. 59% of Project 229 expenditure was restricted compared to 61% in 23/24.

Unrestricted expenditure rose from 39% in 23/24 to 41% in 24/25.

In 24/25 some expenditure costs increased.

Rates such as utilities costs continue to be high.

Project 229 continued to pay a building lease fee. These costs are on an increasing annual rate over a long period. This forms part of a lease set up with the Bedfordshire Charitable Trust for the ongoing long-term use of Project 229 for providing community services.

Staffing and Project Activity costs continue to be Project 229’s greatest expenditure. Project 229 has recruited a part-time admin role to support the increase in demand and complexity and to support the Project Manager. This role is currently two days a week.

Section F Other o tional information p

Section G Declaration

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signature(s)

Bipinchandra Shah Full name(s) Lionel Stewart Chair of Trustees Trustee

Position (e.g., Secretary, Chair, etc)

Date 30/01/2026

March 2025

TAR

23

Project 229 Project 229 Project 229 Project 229 Project 229 No (if any)
1178577		 No (if any)
1178577		 No (if any)
1178577		 CC16a
Receipts and payments accounts
For the period from 01 April 2024 To 31-Mar-25
Section A Receipts and payments
A1 Receipts Unrestricted funds
to the nearest £		 Restricted
funds
nearest £		 Total funds
nearest £		 Last year
nearest £
DONATIONS / LOCAL FUNDRAISING 5,363 - 3614 8,976 1,857
LOCAL INCOME (HUB CLUB) 18,540 0 18,540 11,659
GROUP ROOM HIRE 26,833 - 0 26,833 20,224
LEASE HIRE / UTILITY INCOME 14,126 - 0 14,126 11,309
OTHER- SPECIFIC PROJECT INCOME - - 0 - -
ADVERTISING INCOME 1,140 - 0 1,140 806
GRANT INCOME SPACE PROJECT - - 90157 90,157 112,633
GRANT INCOME ART WELL PROJECT 45290 45,290 17,228
GRANT INCOME ART WELL ECO ART 0 - 4,114
GRANT INCOME OTHER COMMUNITY 0 - 7,652
LOCAL FUNDRAISING DONATIONS 0 - 497
Sub total(Gross income for AR) 66,001 - 139061 205,062 187,980
A2 Asset and investment sales,(see table).
- -
Sub total - -
Total receipts
A3 Payments
205,062 187,980
49,555
38,712
29,229
1,500
3,223
10,857
9,125
624
5,979
1,421
3,517
503
12,479
44,951
10,199
499
-
4,618
226,990
SALARY PROJECT 229 45,456 49,555 34,432
SALARY SPACE PROJECT - 38,712 25,923
SALARY ART WELL PROJECT - 29,229 10,479
SALARY ECO ART PROJECT - 1,500 1,500
VOL / STAFF TRAINING / EXPENSES 3,223 3,223 961
BUILDING / OFFICE EXPENSES 10,857 10,857 5,876
CONTRACT CLEANING /SUPPLIERS 9,125 9,125 8,004
RATES COUNCIL 624 624 640
RATES ELECTRICITY 5,979 5,979 3,742
RATES WATER 1,421 1,421 919
RATES SECURITY /FIRE SERVICES 3,517 3,517 2,119
RATES INSURANCE 503 503 822
PROJECT ACTIVITY (HUB CLUB/OTHER) 12,479 12,479 11,822
PROJECT SPACE 44,951 32,500
PROJECT ART WELL 10,199 4,075
PROJECT ECO ART 499 541
PROJECT ART PSYCHOTHERAPY - 2,295
PROJECT 229 OTHER PROJECTS 4,618 13,251
**Sub total ** 93,184 226,990 159,900

CCXX R1 accounts (SS)

30/01/2026

1

A4 Asset and investment purchases, -
-
93,184
- 27,182		 -
-
93,184
- 27,182		 -
-
-
-		 -
-
-
-		 0
0
133807
5254		 0
0
133807
5254		 -
-
226,990
-21928		 -
-
226,990
-21928
-
Sub total
Total payments
Net of receipts/(payments)
A5 Transfers between funds
A6 Cash funds last year end
Cash funds this year end		 - -
159,900
- 27,182 - 5254 -21928 28,080
-
-
0 - -
- - 0 156,023 127,943
- 27,182 - 5254 134,095 156,023
Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period
Categories
B1 Cash funds
B2 Other monetary assets
B3 Investment assets
B5 Liabilities
Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of
all the trustees
Details
Details
Total cash funds
B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own
use
Details
Details
Details
(agree balances with receipts and payments account(s))
Signature		 Unrestricted
funds
to nearest £		 Restricted
funds
to nearest £		 Endowment
funds
to nearest £
0 - -
0
g		 - -
g
Error
Endowment
funds
to nearest £
-
Current
value
(optional)
-
Current
value
(optional)
- -
- -
Details Fund to
which
liability
relates		 Amount due
(optional)		 When due
(optional)
-
Signature Print Name
Lionel Stewart
Bipinchandra Shah
Date of
approval
Lionel Stewart 30/01/2026
Bipinchandra Shah 30/01/2026

CCXX R2 accounts (SS)

30/01/2026

2

Reporttothetrustees Reporttothetrustees PScsecrzLq
Onaccountsforthe year
ended		 3( 32cLl
Charityno
(ifany) Ir?tltt
Setout onpages tA"lOL
Irepo(to thetrusteeson myexaminationoftheaccounts oftheabove
charity("the Trust") for theyearended
Responsibilities and Asthecharity's trustees,you areresponsible forthepreparation of the
basisofreport accountsinaccordance withtherequirements oftheCharitiesAct2011
("the Act").
Ireportin respect of my examinationoftheTrust'saccounts carried out
undersection145of the2011Act andincarrying outmyexamination,I
havefollowedallthe applicableDirectionsgivenbytheCharity Commission
under section145(5Xb) of the Act.
lndependent
examiner's statement		 [Thecharity's grossincome exceededf250,000andIam qualified to
undertakethe examinationby being aqualified member of[insert name of
applicable listed bodyll. Deletellif not applicable.
Ihavecompletedmyexamination.Iconfirmthat nomaterial matters have
cometomyattentioninconnection withthe examination(other than that
disclosedbelow")whichgivesme causetobelievethatin,anymaterial
respect:
.theaccounting recordswerenot kept in accordancewith section130
oftheCharities Act; or
.theaccountsdidnot accord withthe accountingrecords; or
.theaccountsdidnot comply withthe applicablerequirements
concerning theformand content ofaccounts set outintheCharities
(AccountsandReports) Regulations2008other thananyrequirement
thattheaccounts givea'trueandfair'viewwhichis not a matter
consideredas part of an independent examination.
Ihave no concerns and havecome acrossnoothermattersinconnection
withtheexaminationtowhichattentionshouldbedrawninthisreportin
ordertoenableaproper understanding oftheaccountstobe reached.
*Pleasedeletethe words in the bracketsifthey do notapply.
Signed: ( Lu x.,.S,n-4tu^
Date:
3u/or/Zo'tb
Name: €Pr,{e,rlSir't(5,4
Relevantprofessional
qualification(s)orbody		 €ccA
fr^+ tn,lO