## **Youth Shedz** 

**Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) Registered charity  No: 1184146 www.youthshedz.org.uk Facebook   Youth Shedz Cymru** 

## **TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT** 

## **1 October 2023  to  30 September 2024** 

## **Youth Shedz Cymru Mission** 

Youth Shedz Cymru is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive community where young minds are inspired, skills are honed, and potential is unleashed.  Through collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, we aim to provide a supportive space where young people can grow, learn, and thrive as they embark on their unique journeys toward personal and collective success. 

## **Youth Shedz Cymru Core Values** 

These values define who we are and guide us in our mission to empower the youth through Youth Shedz Cymru. 

**Empowerment.** We believe in empowering young individuals to discover their strengths, passions, and potential, fostering a sense of agency and confidence in their abilities. 

**Inclusivity** .  We embrace diversity and ensure that all young people, regardless of background, gender, or abilities, feel welcomed, respected, and valued within our community. 

**Collaboration** .  We promote teamwork, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, creating an environment where young minds can learn from one another and collectively achieve greater outcomes. 

**Creativity** .  We encourage creative thinking and innovation, providing a space where young people can explore new ideas, experiment, and express themselves freely. 

**Respect** .  We cultivate a culture of respect for oneself, others, and the environment, nurturing empathy and positive relationships among our youth participants. 

**Learning** .  We are committed to continuous learning and skill development, offering opportunities for hands-on experiences and practical knowledge that prepares young people for a successful future. 

**Community** .  We foster a strong sense of community, where meaningful connections are formed, and young people are encouraged to contribute positively to society. 

**Safety** .  We prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants, maintaining a secure and supportive environment where everyone can explore, learn, and grow without fear. 

1 of 23 



## **Youth Shedz** 

Youth Shedz aims to reach the most disconnected young people by providing a safe space for young people aged 11 to 18 and 17 to 25 to explore their identity and develop pro-social relationships, alongside positive role models.  We also mentor young people aged 20 to 30 who have moved on from care or assisted accommodation and the associated support. 

A key principle of the project is that there are no criteria to participation.  This is underpinned by an asset based community development approach, leveraging the internal strengths within the community. 

Each Youth Shed is co-produced by the participants who are supported and facilitated to test out a range of ideas and concepts which in turn help them to build healthier, fulfilling and more stable lives.  Youth Shedz supports young people to develop resilience, improve confidence and selfesteem, reduce social isolation, and promote positive mental health and physical well-being. 

Youth Shedz provides a nurturing, safe environment where young people can learn and test a range of both life and employability skills.  These range from team working, planning, decision making, digital inclusion, entrepreneurship as well as a range of practical skills such as bike restoration and woodworking etc. 

## **Who we work with and what are their needs** 

Youth Shedz is about helping individual disconnected young people in group social settings as well as in individual social settings.  It is about helping individuals and groups of individuals to reconnect with society. 

Youth Shedz is not a youth club; we work with vulnerable and disconnected young people who would often, initially, be excluded from a youth club.  We provide one to one attention as well as group attention.  Our Youth Shed models include operating in partnership with a Youth Club, a High School or with another youth based organisation. 

The optimum size of a Youth Shed is 4 growing to 10 Shedders of either 13 to 18 year olds or 17 to 25 year olds.  A full time Youth Shed Coordinator / manager can only realistically be involved with up to 4 sheds and 24 shedders.  Above this number, they would be spread too thinly. 

A lot of behaviour can be attributed to Adverse Childhood Experiences, so “bad behaviour” can be a trauma response to unprocessed grief, loss, dealing with family issues related to substance misuse, crime or poverty.  We regard issues with an individual shedder or groups of shedders as opportunities for learning and training rather than a threat or a reason for exclusion.  We look to help rather than to punish. 

All trustees, staff and volunteers go through in-depth vetting and safeguarding to ensure that they are suitable to work with vulnerable young people. 

2 of 23 



## **Objectives and Outcomes** 

Youth Shedz does not have a formal set of objectives which we can measure, as most of our outcomes are either soft or result in something not happening, eg lack of anti-social behaviour or a young person not being excluded from the local school.  We try to record the many pro-social activities that the shedders carry out. 

The Community Police, the High Schools and the local community will be the formal judges of the success, value and impact of the Youth Sheds and we work closely with them and other local partners to ensure that each Youth Shed is making a significant difference to the local young people. 

The informal judges will be the shedders (young people) themselves as they continue to participate in the activities of their local Youth Shed and come to accept the Youth Shed Foundation Principles as their values in life. 

## **Positive Partnerships** 

A lot of the young people we help are referred to us by the local high schools, Community Police, church groups, other youth services (such as Youth Justice, Young Offenders, or Young Carers Groups), or local Housing Associations.  We work with these other agencies to make contact with the young people, and offer input and support around ideas of how to make a difference for them and the community. 

Schools, homeless prevention units, police, parents, and carers consistently report that, over time, behavioural changes are positive, and that the young person is able to function in school or society more successfully following a time at Youth Shedz.  We aim to develop excellent relationships and a good reputation across North Wales with these agencies and groups. 

## **Staff** 

Scott Jenkinson - Founder/CEO Alison Hill - Charity Manager, part time Sian Jenkinson - Admin Support/Volunteers, part time Sonia Nicholson - Assistant Coordinator, part time Cara Mortimer-Jones - Coordinator West, full time Nathan Sarea - Coordinator East, full time 

## **Awards** 

Virtual Revolutionary Award 2024 Street Games North Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Award 2023 Street Games North Wales Doorstop Sports Project of the Year Award 2023 

Street Games Wales   Best Youth Lead Mental Health Award, National Inspire Awards 2022 High Sheriff Crime Beat ‘Project of the Year’ 2020 

Your Community Your Choice awards in 2021 and 2022 Police and Crime Commission Rehabilitation Award 2019 Runner-up, Steve Morgan Foundation award for Changing Young Lives UK Housing Award 2019 for Homeless Project of the Year Clwyd High Sherriff Award 2019 

3 of 23 



**Youth Shedz  Foundation Principles** 

## **Our Space, Our Place, Our Future!** 

- 1 We beg, we borrow, but we DO NOT steal 

- 2 Everybody matters – everybody is valued 

- 3 There has to be give and take, it’s not a one way street 

- 4 We live for the moment, but we plan for tomorrow 

- 5 We accept and we are accepted 

- 6 We create a safe and secure space where people can turn to 

- 7 We leave a legacy for other young people to be a part of 

- 8 We serve our community not just ourselves 

- 9 We might not have skills – but we will learn the skills we need 

- 10 We eat together, we BE together 

- 11 We enjoy the journey together, the highs and the lows 

- 12 No pressure doesn’t mean no commitment 


4 of 23 



## **Review of activities undertaken for the Public Benefit, 2023 / 2024** 

Over the past year, Youth Shedz Cymru has continued to deliver meaningful, impactful activities designed to benefit young people and the wider community.  At its core, the organisation has worked to create safe and supportive environments where young individuals, often facing personal and social challenges, can access opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. 

## **Skill Development and Training** 

Youth Shedz Cymru has provided a range of workshops and training sessions aimed at equipping young people with practical skills.  These have included woodworking, furniture upcycling, creative arts, and digital media projects.  Participants have not only developed hands-on abilities but have also gained transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and project management. 

Several members have leveraged these skills to secure employment or further education opportunities, highlighting the real-world value of these initiatives.  This year we have expanded our creative opportunities to include 3D printing and laser etching. 

## **Mental Health and Wellbeing Support** 

Recognising the importance of mental health, Youth Shedz Cymru has prioritised emotional wellbeing through its activities.  Regular discussions, peer support groups, and partnerships with mental health organisations have created an environment where young people feel comfortable sharing their struggles.  The Shedz have integrated mindfulness and self-care practices into their programmes, fostering resilience and confidence in participants.  We have employed a sessional Counsellor who works with young people on a 1 to 1 basis. 

## **Community Engagement** 

Community focused initiatives have remained a cornerstone of Youth Shedz Cymru’s mission.  Shed members have participated in local projects, such as refurbishing public spaces, creating furniture for community use, and volunteering at local events.  These activities not only instil a sense of purpose and pride in participants but also enhance the quality of life for the wider community. 

Examples include Hoodies With Hope, County Lines 4 Good, Homelessness Sleep Out, and making Fidget Spinners for schools. 

## **Inclusive and Safe Spaces** 

Youth Shedz Cymru has continued to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for young people from all walks of life.  By fostering a culture of respect and understanding, the organisation has enabled participants to build meaningful connections, reducing isolation and promoting a sense of belonging.  We continue with projects in Denbigh, Holyhead, Llysfaen, Kinmel Bay, Buckley and Blaenau Ffestiniog.  We have also started new projects in Mochdre (HQ) and Shotton. 

5 of 23 



**Tackling Barriers** 

We have worked tirelessly to address barriers faced by young people, including unemployment, disengagement from education, and social exclusion.  Through personalised support, mentorship, and advocacy, Youth Shedz Cymru has empowered its members to overcome challenges and pursue positive pathways.  Our most effective work in this area this year has been with neurodiverse young people and with our school engagement projects. 

## **Sample references** 

**Testimony from local Police PCSO Bev Owen** Hi Scott 

Thanks for the meeting yesterday Tuesday 6th April, it was great to be able to work together to solve the ongoing issues in both Colwyn Bay/Rhos on Sea area and Llandudno where we are having major issues with youths causing ASB, Criminal Damage and Public Order. 

It takes partnerships/multi-agency working to help with these ongoing issues.  Youth Shedz have brought so much to the area being able to provide the youths with something to do, not only has it reduced crime and benefited the local community it has also given the youths something to do and it is clear that they have great respect for you and your team.  It was also great to hear that Schools are now requesting help from you to intervene when their measures have not worked so that says a lot for the work that you do. 

We will always support and help in any way we can to work with Youth Shedz, as it is very clear that the need for your services is vital to our Communities. 

Keep up the good work, a great team effort from you all!! 

## **Parent of a Shedder attending 'Wellbeing in the Woods' sessions.** 

She’s a very busy, active child and we walk our dog in the woods, which she enjoys. She loved everything though to be honest. The woods, walking, cooking, games. She also knows Ellen from primary school and this did make it easier for her to take part. 

She struggles joining into other community events because she is younger in mind than other children her age and sometimes vulnerable but this event and your staff were amazing with her and we cancelled other summer holiday plans (although nothing big) as she really wanted to attend this the two times it was on every week. 

So thank you again. 

## **Individual Youth Shedz** 

**Denbigh Youth Shed,** based in the Grwp Cynefin (Housing Association) assisted living building.  Up to 6 residential, 8 non-residential 18 to 25 year old shedders.  Part funded by Grwp Cynefin.  Lots of activities going on (and lots of issues with the shedders).  We will look at the Social Prescribing Model for future activities.  The Denbigh Shed is now under the direction of Nathan who has continued to develop a good relationship with local schools, Police and Grwp Cynefin. 

6 of 23 



**Kinmel Bay Youth Shed** .  Based in two sheds at Kinmel Bay Church (KBC).  Now under the direction of Cara, the Shed have had a bit of a tidy up.  Thanks to funding from KFC, they now have electricity; meaning that this year the sheds will be more useable and continue to serve the needs of a group of 8 looked after children. 

**Blaenau Ffestiniog Youth Shed** .  The old containers have now been relocated (to Buckley and Connah’s Quay) and the Youth Shed group have moved their weekly meetings to GISDA in the town. The group of Shedderz continue to meet and organise community projects. 

**Llandudno Junction Youth Shed** .  During the summer this Youth Shed was based around outdoor activities, using our van, Betsi Mobile.  We have been working with the community police helping 15 of the more vulnerable young people (aged 11 to 16) with 7 core shedders. 

**Betsi Mobile Youth Shed** is being well used and is a major asset to us as it enables initial engagement and ongoing outreach activities with other voluntary organisations, mainly using VR.  We are also doing joint activities with Youth Justice, Housing Associations and North Wales Police. 

**Buckley Youth Shed.** Nathan has taken over coordinating Buckley.  We continue to work with the original cohort referred by the Police.  One of the containers from Blaenau has gone to Buckley and is currently being transformed by the young Shedderz. 

**Holyhead Youth Shed** now has a home.  Cara has secured a part of a community centre in the town which has been kitted out with 3D printer, Cricut machine, laser cutting machine, VR headsets - everything the kids wanted.  This Shed has close ties with the high school and the local Police. 

**Mochdre Youth Shed.** Our new HQ in Mochdre is now up and running and fully equipped, thanks to a grant from the Levelling Up Fund.  The Youth Shed has a tech area, a chilling area and a small 1 to 1 quiet room.  Mochdre is used every day of the week for small group work, a local Mochdre Youth Shedz, 1 to 1 sessions and as a base for our administration. 

## **School work** 

**Excluded High School pupils** .  Over the past year, we have helped small numbers of pupils from Holyhead High School and Eirias High School who are in danger of exclusion from the school.  We have had success with increased school attendance and significant reduction in disruptive behaviour. 

This year has seen us further develop our provision with Denbigh High School and the impact can be seen with his statement from the assistant head: 

_“I wanted to email you about MJ and the positive change in behaviour and attitude to learning since he has been working with Nathan at Youth Shedz._ 

_He is really enjoying the sessions and we have certainly seen an improvement in his maturity and attitude to work, but perhaps more importantly in his overall emotional health and wellbeing._ 

_It is really working well for him so thank you. We look forward to arranging more group and individual sessions to support our pupils if they become available.”_ 

_Stuart Howson, Assistant Headteacher, Denbigh High School._ 

7 of 23 



## **Toolkit and Website development and launch** 

A significant piece of work this year has been the development of our franchise toolkit for licenced Youth Shedz.  Thanks to funding from the Lloyds Bank Foundation, Youth Shedz has been able to develop a franchise package to realise its vision of "A Shed in Every Town, for Young People, by Young People." 

This comprehensive toolkit can be shared with anyone interested in starting a Youth Shed, adhering to the ethos and principles created by the young people who initiated the movement in Denbigh in 2017. 

This expansion strategy ensures that the impactful work of Youth Shedz can reach even more communities, fostering resilience and empowerment on a broader scale. 

## **Licenced Youth Shedz** 

**Rhyl.** Brighter Futures continue to deliver Rhyl Youth Shed using our model. 

**Llandudno Kings Road.** Friends of Mostyn Street - in initial development stage. 

**Colwyn Bay.** Continues to meet weekly, delivered by Hannah and Kene under Next Gen Youth. 

**Ysgol Tan y Gaer** - residential school near Wrexham.  See feedback from the headteacher: 

_Our journey with Youth Shedz has been great. From the moment we got involved, the project has been a shining example of building positive relationships and fostering real community spirit._ 

_We started by reaching out to our local community to help stock our shed with practical tools and materials. We have had some amazing donations that has sparked interest and curiosity in our young people._ 

_Through regular visits, we’ve built fantastic relationships with Scott and his team of Shedders. Their guidance, expertise, and passion have been invaluable, not only in terms of practical skills but also in inspiring our young people to dream big and work hard._ 

_One of the standout experiences, so far, has been developing business skills through a 3D printing project. This hands-on approach has been instrumental in teaching young people about creativity, problemsolving, and entrepreneurship. The use of VR headsets has also opened up a world of opportunities, offering immersive experiences that spark imagination and innovation._ 

_Being part of the Youth Shedz community has shown us the power of connection, collaboration, and shared purpose. We’re proud to be part of this journey and excited about what the future holds. Thank you, Youth Shedz, for helping us grow, learn, and thrive together._ 

_Gavin Cass, Head of Education, Ysgol Tan Y Gaer_ 

## **VR & Technology** 

**The Virtual Reality** (VR) projects are going well and are very popular with the shedders (and the trustees and volunteers).  Youth Shedz is creating our own VR experience and has built an interactive VR meeting and activities suite as well as developing a strong Safeguarding policy and principles for use in the VR environment.  Our VR projects aim to remove barriers to engagement of young people who may not be able to visit the traditional Youth Shed due to disability and other factors. 

8 of 23 



This year we have expanded our creative opportunities, particularly in the area of 3D design and printing.  Mochdre Youth Shed has three advanced 3d printers that are used every day - often for participation in community projects. 

**JAMZ** - Podcasting project.  Nathan and a small group of young people have set up a podcasting project with funding from FCVS and South Wales Police.  Two volunteers have attended a 10 week podcasting and production course and we have bought mobile recording equipment. 

**Remote Control Cars & Drifters.** Nathan  has brought his passion for RC cars into Youth Shedz and these have been very successful especially with our neurodiverse young people.  The young people enjoy building them from scratch and learning how to repair as well as ‘drift’.  Each Youth Shed has a car so to encourage inter shed working and competition.  Testimony from School: 

_We are hopeful that the recent remote control car project will be a truly transformative experience for our young people.  It has all started with an exciting experience session where they got the chance to race the cars, ask questions, and build relationships with the Youth Shedz team. During this session, it was clear this was something that was going to be great._ 

_We saw children, who often struggle in a traditional classroom setting, engage for longer than they typically can. The joy and curiosity sparked by the cars was amazing. It wasn’t just about fun – it was about igniting a passion for learning, creativity, and teamwork._ 

_This initial spark has inspired us to develop this into a sustained project where our young people can design, build, and create their own remote control cars. It’s an opportunity for them to explore engineering, problem-solving, and hands-on learning in a way that truly captures their imagination._ 

_This project perfectly complements our curriculum and reinforces that not all learning takes place in a classroom. It’s about providing unique, meaningful experiences that inspire our young people to think differently, try new things, and discover their potential._ 

_Thank you, Youth Shedz, for helping us create moments that matter and opening the door to endless possibilities._ 

_Gavin Cass, Head of Education, Ysgol Tan Y Gaer_ 

## **Outreach** 

We have continued our outreach bus ‘Betsi’.  This year we have focused on Llandudno Junction and have partnered with North Wales Housing to outreach into ASB hotspots on their estates.  Activities carried out on the Bus include Arts and Craft, VR, Drone Flying, Football and other Sports. 

## **Community** 

The ethos of helping our local communities continues and we have supported Youth Shedderz in their projects to reach the community. Community projects have included but not been limited to: 

**‘Bags of Kindness’** Mochdre Shedders designed and printed little gifts and placed them in a bag with a message of hope and planted in the community for people to find. 

9 of 23 



**‘Winter Warm Packs’** Blaenau Shedderz raised money to create 20 packs that included items to keep warm (hat, gloves, Oodie etc) which were given to people in need in the community. 

**‘Hoodies with Hope’** Blaenau Shedderz designed and printed hoodies with messages of hope on. 

**‘Homeless Care Packs’** Joint Shed venture.  Shedderz did a sponsored sleep out and made money to make care packs.  These were given to a shelter in Rhyl. 

## **Youth Shedz Unplugged - therapeutic outdoor activities including Fit & Fed** 

We have carried out a range of outdoor activities with the specific aim of getting young people outside away from the Xbox. 

Denbigh Youth Shed piloted a fantastic ‘Wellbeing in the Woods’ project as part of Fit and Fed funding provision over the school holidays.  Every Tuesday and Friday during school breaks saw the team deliver Forrest School activities at Cai Dai wilderness park. The sessions were fully populated every week with 20 young people taking part. 

Other outdoor activities throughout the year included Coarse Fishing, Sea Fishing, Wreck Fishing, Golf Driving Range, Walks, Camping and Abseiling with Eagle House. 

## **Partnership Work** 

Over the past year we have partnered with: 

Dangerpoint – Knife crime VR Pemaenrhos Pupil Referral Unit Conwy Youth Service Anglesey Fishing and Sightseeing Tours PigTown CIC Conwy/Denbighshire Youth Justice FoodShare North Wales Holyhead High School Prestatyn High School Denbigh High School North Wales Housing Red Squirrel Trust 

## **1 to 1 Provision** 

Our 1-to-1 provision offers tailored support for young people unable to attend mainstream school or participate in larger group settings.  Designed to meet the needs of neurodiverse individuals and those with offending and/or challenging behaviours, this programme creates a safe and nurturing environment where each young person can develop trust, confidence, and essential skills at their own pace. 

Each coordinator works closely with participants attached to their own Youth Shed, aiming to guide them towards transitioning from 1-to-1 sessions into group activities within the wider Youth Shedz community.  By fostering personal growth and resilience, we help these young people build brighter futures and meaningful connections. 

10 of 23 



## **Youth Shedz Business Development/Internal Systems and IT/VIEWS** 

With thanks to funding from the Lloyds Bank Foundation and Denbighshire Key Fund we have been able to develop an internal IT system with IT support for the next 2 years.  The system is based on Office 365 which has SharePoint;  we are now able to streamline our communications among the expanding team with all resources accessible to all. 

We have also invested in the VIEWS monitoring and evaluation system; a high quality system used by the Ministry of Justice for recording all of our data, including: sessions, personal details, session notes and attendances. 

## **Our Year in Numbers from VIEWS monitoring system** 

|Number of session/events over the 12 month period|699|
|---|---|
|Number of events with partner organisations|69|
|Aggregated contacts over the 12 month period|2909|
|Unique attendances at sessions|243|
|Total percentage of attendance vs non-attendance|97.1 %|
|Total number of young people registered with Youth Shedz this year|286|




## **Volunteering at Youth Shedz** 

In the past 12 months the number of active volunteers has doubled from 6 to 12.  Of these, 3 have completed their Level 2 Food Hygiene, 3 have completed Fire Safety Training and all have a basic DBS.  We have a further 6 volunteers who are our Trustees. 

The volunteers range from Fishing Buddies to  "Veteran" Shedders ie young people who have been in Youth Shedz themselves, to general supporters for shed sessions.  Two of the volunteers act as Shed Champions for Colwyn Bay and have undertaken their Level 2 Youth Work Course in partnership with Youth Shedz and Youth Services Conwy. 

11 of 23 



## **Feedback** 

We have had wonderful feedback and testimony from our shedders (and their parents) on how important Youth Shedz has been for them this year.  The local community police have commented that the level of anti-social behaviour has significantly decreased.  Various pupils are now attending High School full or part time, rather than being excluded. 

Please see our new website www.youthshedz.org.uk and our Facebook page  @youthshedzcymru for pictures and more details. 

## **Sample references** 

My name is Dr Claire Owen, a psychologist with a PhD in child development and a post-graduate certificate in family therapy. I work with young people and their families, addressing the complexities and underlying causes of challenging child behaviour in a compassionate, collaborative approach aimed at fostering positive change and improving long-term outcomes. 

In my experience, pathologising young people based solely on their behavioural presentations may not create lasting change. One young person I worked with, who had undergone years of medical intervention such as medication, psychiatry, and psychological input - found far greater benefit from attending Youth Sheds. This initiative provided a space for him to grow towards his own preferred reality, offering a sense of belonging and empowerment that medical settings couldn't replicate. 

The team at Youth Shedz, including Scott, Nathan, and Cara, have been instrumental in this transformative process. They helped this young person externalize his difficulties, moving away from a negative, internalized sense of self that kept him stuck in a cycle of psychopathology. As a result, he has been discharged from mental health services and no longer requires medication to manage his symptoms. Not only is he growing, but he is also now actively supporting other young people facing similar challenges. 

This kind of community work is essential. Rather than continuing to medicalize young people's experiences, initiatives like Youth Sheds highlight the power of connection and empowerment in fostering growth and resilience. I strongly advocate for additional funding to support this invaluable initiative, as it offers a more holistic and effective alternative to traditional treatment approaches. 

Dr Claire Owen Ph.D. in Applied Psychology Assistant Psychologist Systemic Practitioner Tîm Integredig Teuluoedd Lleol/Local Integrated Family Team (LIFT) Ymyrraeth, Ataliaeth, Iechyd a Lles / Intervention, Prevention, Health and Wellbeing Bwrdd Iechyd Prifysgol/Betsi Cadwalader University Health Board 

I recently contacted Scott at Youth Shedz regarding some boys who were disengaged in school and a couple of the boys were getting into trouble in the community, Scott invited the boys to attend sessions every Friday. 

The courses aim is to reduce/educate on ASB/knife crime awareness and county lines, this opportunity has been very beneficial to the boys and they look forward to attending sessions every week. During the sessions they have attended so far, they have built up a really good rapport with Scott and I can see a definite improvement in all pupils. 

One of the pupils wrote 

“Going to Youth Shedz has helped me game confidence through speaking to Scott, I enjoy going there because he’s not afraid to tell us the truth and he has real life experience.” 

Stuart Howson,  Pennaeth Cynorthwyol / Assistant Headteacher, Ysgol Uwchradd Dinbych, Ffordd Rhuthun 

12 of 23 



## **Sources of funds** 

We have raised over £209,000 in grant funding, contracts, and awards.  We have received various awards.  On the 30 September 2024 we had £102,000 in the bank account with a budgeted annual expenditure of £218,000. 

Youth Shedz principal sources of funds at present are donations, grants, and contracts with Housing Associations and High Schools.  We are looking in the future for at least 20% of funding to come from contracts and commercial activities. 

## **Principal risks** 

The principal risks facing Youth Shedz are based around safeguarding which we discuss at each trustees meeting.  We train all trustees, staff, and volunteers on the need to ensure good safeguarding at all times. 

## **Trustees and meetings** 

The charity trustees are appointed by the existing trustees in accordance with the Youth Shedz constitution.  The Board of Trustees meet regularly throughout the year to carry out their responsibilities. 

## **Statement of Responsibility** 

The trustees will continue to ensure good governance of the charity and will make the necessary arrangements for the proper control and administration of its financial affairs and to ensure that the resources for the administration of those affairs are available. 

## **Responsible People** 

|Martin Harrison|Trustee and Chairman, Youth Shedz Board of Trustees|
|---|---|
|Peter Caldwell|Trustee|
|Anthony Jeremy|Trustee|
|Alex Webster|Trustee|
|Jo Mathews|Trustee|
|Sue Colman|Trustee|
|Scott Jenkinson|Director and CEO|
|Task Accounting|Independent Financial Examiner|




## **Signature of the Chair of Board of Trustees** 

Date:  28 January 2025 

13 of 23 




## **Youth Shedz Cymru** 

## **Three Year Strategic Plan** 

## **1 October 2024** 

This strategic plan sets out the overall vision for the development of Youth Shedz Cymru over the next 3 years.  Details about our values, activities and individual sheds are given in the Trustees Annual Report. 

Youth Shedz aims to reach the most disconnected young people by providing a safe space for young people aged 11 to 18 and 17 to 25 to explore their identity and develop pro-social relationships, alongside positive role models.  We also mentor young people aged 20 to 30 who have moved on from care or assisted accommodation and the associated support. 

## **Overall strategic plan** 

There is a massively increased need across the UK for Youth Shedz and the services we offer.  Our main role is to concentrate on the mental health needs of the individual young person in a social setting rather than the needs of the many. 

The overall concept for the future growth of Youth Shedz is the licenced Youth Shedz model, with 6 to 8 local Youth Shedz managed by the centre and at least an additional 5 licenced Youth Shedz per year across the UK managed by other charities and youth based organisations.  No two Youth Shedz are the same as they develop based on the needs of the young people or ‘Shedders’. 

In addition to the 6 local Youth Shedz managed by the centre, we might manage up to 2 local Youth Shedz prior to them becoming licenced Youth Shedz or if existing licenced Youth Shedz get into difficulties.  We presently have 6 licenced Youth Shedz fully operational, 3 about to start in 2025, and advanced enquiries from a further 12 youth based organisations to set up Youth Shedz in their location.  These are across Wales and the North of England. 

We have started to set up 3 organisational Youth Shedz Hubs across North Wales: West (Holyhead), Central (Colwyn Bay/Mochdre) and East (Denbigh).  The purpose of the hubs is to locate Youth Shedz coordinators in these areas (normally at existing Youth Shedz), so that they have a full understanding of the needs of the local area and can assist with the development of local licenced Youth Shedz. 

In 2024 we set up the Community Youth Shed in Mochdre / Colwyn Bay in a leased main street shop unit (1,000 sq ft).  This shed is now fully operational and is being used 5 days per week by us and by other local youth based organisations.  Our administrative office, equipment store and electrical workshop are located here which gives us an extensive facility for all the local Youth Shedz to use. 

The natural life of a Youth Shed is about 3 years before the shedders start to move on and the needs of the next generation take over.  We understand and manage this churn.  Sometimes the generations mix and there is a continual churn. 

14 of 23 



## **Income, expenditure and budget** 

|**Budget  3 year**|**Youth Shedz CIO**|**Youth Shedz CIO**|**Year end 30 September**|**Year end 30 September**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||
||Actual|Budget|Budget|Budget|
||**2024**|**2025**|**2026**|**2027**|
|**Income**|||||
|Grants and donations(new)|£207,419|£170,000|£215,000|£236,500|
|Donations|£2,000|£2,100|£2,205|£2,315|
|Franchise income|£0|£2,550|£4,250|£5,950|
|Membershipincome|£0|£1,260|£3,360|£6,300|
|**Total new income**|**£209,419**|**£175,910**|**£224,815**|**£251,065**|
||||||
|Income carried forward|£68,018|£102,008|£72,168|£75,199|
|**Total income**|**£277,437**|**£277,918**|**£296,983**|**£326,264**|
||||||
|**Expenditure**|||||
|CEO / Scott|£36,177|£38,304|£40,219|£42,230|
|CharityManager|£7,200|£11,880|£12,474|£13,098|
|Administrator & finance|£7,970|£9,579|£13,000|£13,650|
|Youth Shedz Coordinator|£31,360|£32,928|£34,574|£36,303|
|Youth Shedz Coordinator(p/t)|£10,868|£21,736|£17,287|£36,303|
|Assistant Coordinator|£11,017|£15,606|£16,386|£17,206|
|Assistant Coordinator||£4,092|£16,386|£17,206|
|**Subtotal staff costs**|**£104,592**|**£134,125**|**£150,327**|**£175,995**|
||||||
|HQ expenses|£14,567|£16,000|£16,800|£17,640|
|Premises costs(Mochdre + Cybi)|£10,000|£12,000|£12,600|£13,230|
|ICT, VR & equipment|£19,008|£15,000|£12,000|£12,600|
|Shed expenses|£27,262|£28,625|£30,056|£31,559|
|**Total expenditure**|**£175,429**|**£205,750**|**£221,784**|**£251,025**|
||||||
|**Net income for theyear**|**£33,990**|**-£29,840**|**£3,031**|**£41**|
|Net income carried forward|£102,008|£72,168|£75,199|£75,240|
||||||
|Bank balance 30 September|£102,008|£72,168|£75,199|£75,240|
|Fixed assets|£16,100|£16,100|£16,100|£16,100|
||||||
|Percentage increase||5%|5%|5%|
|Staff numbers full time equivalent|4|4.2|4.2|4.2|
|No of shedz|6|6|6|6|
|Av expensesper shed|£4,544|£4,771|£5,009|£5,260|
|No of licenced shedz|0|3|8|15|



15 of 23 



Our expenditure to September 2024 was £175,429 with 3 full time and 3 part time staff.  We expect to grow to £250,000 by 2027 with 3 full time and 4 part time staff and then stay at around this level (plus inflation).  This equates to at least 22 person days per week for paid manager / coordinators / assistants / administrator supported by 12 person days per week of volunteers’ time. 

We expect the funding to be split £176,000 in grants, £60,000 in contracts (schools and housing associations etc), £3,000 in awards and donations and £12,000 in licenced Youth Shedz income.  We will apply for larger grants spread over two years or more, as well as some smaller grants. 

## **Trustees and Organisational Chart** 

The Youth Shedz organisational chart and responsibilities include: 

Chairman, volunteer, strategy, income and grants, finance, TAR. 

- Trustee Treasurer, volunteer, finance, approval of major expenditures, accounts, bank signature. Trustee Safeguarding, volunteer, Jo. 

Operations Director, Scott.  General management, activities, and licenced Youth Shedz. 

Charity Manager (finance), 1 days per week.  General administration, grants, financial. 

- Administrator, 3 days per week.  Safeguarding, people HR, volunteers, accounts, office, H&S. 

- Youth Shedz Coordinator, full time.  Coordinate the existing and new shedz, East Hub. 

Youth Shedz Coordinator, full time.  Coordinate the existing and new shedz, West Hub. 

Youth Shedz Assistant, 3 days per week.  Youth Shedz projects and office activities. 

Youth Shedz Assistant, 1 day per week.  Youth Shedz projects and sheds. 

The Youth Shedz governance is controlled by the Board of Trustees.  We presently have 5 trustees. We will appoint two additional trustees.  We expect all trustees to be local and actively involved in Youth Shedz activities.  The trustees will continue to ensure good governance of the charity and will make the necessary arrangements for the proper control and administration of its financial affairs and to ensure that the resources for the administration of those affairs are available. 

The Board of Trustees will: 

- Elect a new Chairperson as Martin is resigning and moving to Cardiff (grandchildren). 

- - Appoint a Treasurer who should be a Trustee.  The Treasurer’s role is financial oversite, eg review and approve the accounts, bank statements, expenses, grants, expenditure, and financial processes once a quarter. 

We will build up an active group of volunteers and include them as part of our team.  We will fully support our volunteers with training, involvement, recognition, and tee shirts with our logo etc 

We hold staff management meetings once a week, strategy meetings once a month and Board meetings once a quarter.  We will arrange an annual Shedfest for all present and past shedders. 

## **Services** 

We expect our services to be split: 45% with the 11 to 18 aged shedders, 50% with the older 17 to 25 aged shedders and 5% with the older 20 to 30 aged ex-shedders.  We have started to recognise an increase in need for those who have moved on from temporary accommodation and/or care, and the support that comes with it.  We hope to offer more wrap around care and targeted access to volunteering and employability.  The age range is 20 to 30 year olds. 

16 of 23 



We will continue to develop the following services: 

- Youth Shedz at more housing association supported accommodation units and in prisons 

- Engagement programs and employability skills training with Career Wales 

- Helping High Schools with pupils in danger of exclusion 

We have been gifted, by Grwp Cynefin, a large Vauxhall Movano van which has been fully fitted out as a mobile meeting room with a diesel heater.  This is our Betzi Mobile Youth Shedz which is very useful when setting up new Youth Shedz.  We use Betzi about 3 times per week. 

We will continue to develop the Community Youth Shed in Mochdre / Colwyn Bay as a resource for our Youth Shedz, the local licenced Youth Shedz and other local youth based organisations. 

We have a significant amount of equipment which has been grant funded.  We will ensure that this equipment is fully itemised, utilised and maintained.  We have set up a workshop in our new Community Youth Shed in Mochdre and in our Cybi Youth Shedz in Holyhead.  We will set up the equivalent resource in our east Hub when it is established. 

We will develop close working relationships with other organisations, including Youth Services.  We will develop the partnership model and aim to have an active partner at each Youth Shed.  We will set up and help fund joint venture projects and activities with other youth organisations. 

Our activities with the shedders are roughly be split into 7 areas. 

- Outdoor activities including golf, fishing, cycling, camping, DoE, etc. 

- Creative activities including writing, art, music, drama etc. 

- Digital and VR activities.  Drone and camera equipment. 

- Community activities. 

- Workshop activities including tee shirts, 3d printing, bikes etc. 

- One to one support. 

- Food, cooking, eating, health and wellbeing, budgeting. 

We will continue to develop the Youth Shedz Online activities including Facebook and zoom meetings etc.  We expect that about 10% of Youth Shedz activities will take place online rather than physically meeting.  We have issued the Youth Shedz Online Policy. 

We will continue to develop the VR experience as this is a very popular way of interacting with the young people.  We will start to charge for the VR activities, when the receiving organisation can afford it, eg schools. 

We have been carrying out mobile outreach to the community and providing 1 to 1 support for those shedders that need it.  This 1 to 1 support is vitally needed and is now a significant part of our activities. 

17 of 23 



**Licenced Youth Shedz** 

We have a significant responsibility as the licensor to support the licensed Youth Shedz including: 

- Issuing and updating the Youth Shedz Franchise Toolkit, Model Policies and Procedures, Risk Assessments and Method Statements, and Safeguarding processes. 

- Ensuring that the Youth Shedz Principles are embedded and conducting a yearly audit of them. 

- Helping with and moderating as appropriate with Social Media. 

- Running the annual Shedfest for all of the sheds. 

- Being available to mentor the licenced Youth Shedz and to take a more active role if need be. 

## **General** 

Youth Shedz does not have a formal set of objectives which we can measure, as most of our outcomes are either soft or result in something not happening, eg lack of anti-social behaviour or a young person not being excluded from the local school.  The Community Police, the local community and the shedders themselves and their parents and guardians will be the formal judges of the success, value, and impact of the Youth Sheds. and we work closely with them and other local partners to ensure that each Youth Shed is making a significant difference to the local young people. 

The principal risks facing Youth Shedz are based around safeguarding which we discuss at each trustees and management meeting.  We will continue to develop and follow all of our policy documents and to engage with 31:8. 

We train all trustees, staff, and volunteers on the need to ensure the following at all times: 

- Good safeguarding 

- Appropriate and relevant risk assessments and method statements 

- Good health and safety and hygiene attitudes and practices 

- Transparent financial controls 

We aim to get at least two awards each year.  We aim to get very positive feedback from the local communities, police, and schools etc on the progress our shedders have made. 

18 of 23 



## **YOUTH SHEDZ** 

**Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) Registered charity  No: 1184146** 

**www.youthshedz.org.uk** 

## **FINANCIAL STATEMENT** 

**1 October 2023  to  30 September 2024** 

19 of 23 



**YOUTH SHEDZ CIO** 

## **ADMINSTRATION INFORMATION** 

## **History** 

Youth Shedz was started in 2017 by 4:28 Training (sole trader) / Scott Jenkinson as a training project and in October 2018 we set up the Youth Shedz Board of Trustees and Youth Shedz Ltd (company limited by guarantee).  In June 2019 we became a registered charity and started operating as Youth Shedz CIO on the 3 September 2020.  Youth Shedz Ltd is now a dormant company. 

Our expenditure to September 2024 was £175,429 with 3 full time and 3 part time staff, up from £101,681 in 2023.  We expect to grow to £206,000 in 2025 with 3 full time and 3 part time staff. 

## **Status** 

Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered with the Charity Commission on 28 June 2019, number 1184146 

## **Principal address** 

37 Bryn Marl Road, Mochdre, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL28 5EA 

## **Charity Objects** 

To advance in life and help young people in the UK through the provision of facilities in which they can meet to undertake, jointly or individually, creative, physical, or recreational activities and learn to pass on skills and knowledge so as to develop their skills, capacities, and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as independent, mature, and responsible individuals. 

## **Charity Trustees** 

Martin Harrison  (Chairman) Peter Caldwell Anthony Jeremy Alex Webster Jo Mathews Sue Colman 

## **Bankers** 

HSBC UK, Llandudno 

20 of 23 



Independent Exvdminer's Report OD the a¢¢ouDts to the Trnstees of Youth Shedz
I report to the tA￿tee$ on my examination of the accounts for Youth Shedz CIO (Charity No 1184146)
for the 12 months to 30 September 2024.
Responsibilities and basi$ of report
As the charity's trustees, you are r￿pOnSIble for the preparation of the accounts in accordan￿ with the
r¢quirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('th¢ Act,).
l report in respect of my examination of the Charity's accounts canied out under section 145 of the
2011 Act and in carying out my examination, I hav¢ followed all the applicable Directions given by
the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
I have completed my ¢xamination. I confirni that no material matters have come to my attention in
connection with the examination and that:
the accounting r¢¢ords ww¢ kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act"
the accounts did accord with the accounting records.
the accounls did comply with the applicable requirem¢nts conceming the form and content of
accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 oth¢r than any
requiremenl that the accounts give a 'tTue and fair, view which is not a matter considered as part
of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and 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.
Signature
Name
Jami¢ Northwtt
Date
28. July 2025
Qualifications FFA FIPA
Address
Task Accounting Limited, Commodore House, 51 Conway Road, Colwyn Bay,
Conwyy LL29 7AW.
21 of 23

## **Youth Shedz CIO Income & Expenditure** 

## **Financial Statements** 

## **1 October 2023 to 30 September 2024** 

|**Notes**|**Notes**|**Unrestrict**<br>**ed Funds**|**Designated**<br>**Funds**|**Restricted**<br>**Funds**|**Total**<br>**funds to 30**<br>**Sept 24**|Total funds<br>to 30 Sept<br>23|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**Income carried forward**|||||||
|Awards & donations||£11,521|£20,000|£12,825|£44,347||
|Moondance||||£23,671|£23,671||
|**Income carried forward**|1|**£11,521**|**£20,000**|**£36,496**|**£68,018**|£38,628|
|**New income during period**|||||||
|Awards, donations & small grants||£1,078||£6,884|£7,962||
|Conwy Council UKSPS||||£18,388|£18,388||
|Streetgames||||£4,000|£4,000||
|Neumark Foundation||||£32,087|£32,087||
|South Wales Police Aces||||£3,750|£3,750||
|North Wales Police Commissioner||||£12,186|£12,186||
|Cloceaenog windfarm||||£10,000|£10,000||
|Neumark Foundation, Danger point||||£7,037|£7,037||
|GYM||||£25,000|£25,000||
|Rhyl Flats windfarm||||£10,000|£10,000||
|DVSC  IT Levelling up fund||||£20,000|£20,000||
|PACT / YCYC||||£2,500|£2,500||
|Lloyds Bank Foundation||£15,000|£10,000||£25,000||
|Postcode Community Trust|||£25,000||£25,000||
|NFU|||£6,509||£6,509||
|**Sub total new income**||**£16,078**|**£41,509**|**£151,832**|**£209,419**|£131,071|
|**Expenditure during period**|||||||
|HQ expenses||£14,567|£0|£0|£14,567|£24,236|
|Salaries and contractors|||£8,419|£4,100|£92,073|£104,592|
|ICT, VR & equipment||£1,745|£408|£16,855|£19,008|£5,983|
|Shed expenses||£0|£12,058|£25,203|£37,261|£15,214|
|**Total expenditure during period**||**£24,732**|**£16,566**|**£134,130**|**£175,429**|£101,681|
|**Net income for the year**||-£8,654|£24,943|£17,702|£33,990|£29,390|
|**Net income carried forward**|1|**£2,867**|**£44,943**|**£54,198**|**£102,008**|£68,018|
|**Balance Sheet as at 30 September**|**2022**||||||



||**Notes**|**Unrestrict**<br>**ed Funds**|**Designated**<br>**Funds**|**Restricted**<br>**Funds**|**Total**<br>**funds to 30**<br>**Sept 24**|Total funds<br>to 30 Sept<br>23|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Net income carried forward|1, 2|£2,867|£44,943|£54,198|£102,008|£68,018|
|Cash in bank||£2,867|£44,943|£54,198|£102,008|£68,018|
|Fixed assets|4|||£16,100|£16,100|£13,800|



Youth Shedz has no other realisable assets, creditors or debtors. 

The Designated Funds are Unrestricted Funds used for working capital and for shed activities between grants 

22 of 23 



## **The attached notes form part of these financial statements** 

- 1 The Financial Statements include all income and expenditure for the 12 months to 30 September 2024. 

- 2 These accounts have been prepared in accordance with SORP FRS 102 regulations using the accrual basis which in our accounts is the same as the income and expenditure basis, see notes 3 and 4 below. 

- 3 We have split our unrestricted funds into unrestricted funds and designated funds.  This reflects the level of unrestricted funds that we have been given which have been allocated for specific projects and activities. 

- 4 Youth Shedz has been given, either directly or via grant funding various fixed assets with an estimated realisable value of £16,100.  A separate Fixed Asset Register has been issued and independently examined.  These assets cannot be sold without written permission from the donor and any proceeds have to be used for charitable purposes. 

- 5 Any other assets owned by Youth Shedz are of no significant realisable value.  Youth Shedz has no significant debtors or creditors at the end of each month and all financial transactions go through the main bank account. 

- 6 Youth Shedz policy for holding reserves is to ensure that the cash reserves after all liabilities do not drop below 3 months expenditure or £40,000 and that Youth Shedz does not take on any long term liabilities, loan, debts, or overdrafts. 

- 7 Scott Jenkinson is the CEO of Youth Shedz and operates as a sole trader under the name 4:28 Training.  During the year, the charity paid £71,375 to 4:28 Training for contracted services and expenses which are related party transactions.  This arrangement was approved by the unconflicted trustees in accordance with the charity's conflict of interest policy.  The services were provided on normal market terms.  Scott was not involved in the decision-making or approval process relating to these payments. 

- 8 Youth Shedz holds the restricted funds on behalf of the donors and ensures that these funds are only used for their intended and stated purpose.  A separate Restricted Funding Report has been issued and independently examined. 

- 9 These accounts will be independently examined and then approved by the Board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by Martin Harrison, Chairman. 


## **Signature of the Chair of Board of Trustees** 

Date:  24 July 2025 

23 of 23