2023-04-30-accounts - The Gathering Place

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Trustees' Annual Report for the period Period start date Period end date 1 5 2022 30 4 2023 From To

Section A Reference and administration details

Charity name The Gathering Place Other names charity is known by The Gathering Place UK

Registered charity number (if any) 1189467

Charity's principal address 18 Queen Street Neath Wales Postcode SA11 1DL

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

Trustee name	Office (if any)	Dates acted if not for whole year
Kenneth Arrington	Director / Chair
Susan Rees
Martyn Greenway

















Names of the trustees for the charity, if any, (for example, any custodian trustees)
Name		Dates acted if not for whole year

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Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

Type of adviser	Name Address	Name Address




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

Section B Structure, governance and management

Description of the charity’s trusts

Constitution enacted 1 January 2020 Type of governing document (eg. trust deed, constitution) CIO Constitution How the charity is constituted (eg. trust, association, company) Trustees are appointed for 2 year terms at end of year returns meeting / Trustee selection methods review (eg. appointed by, elected by)

Additional governance issues (Optional information)

Volunteers and volunteer counsellors are vetted based on experience, You may choose to include education, and agreement with principles set out in all related charity additional information, where documents, including Wales safeguarding procedures, and additional relevant, about: documentation and statements of belief.

policies and procedures adopted for the induction and The director oversees day to day aspects and duties of running the training of trustees; charity, including the power to do anything which is calculated to further its objects or is conducive or incidental to doing so. The director moves and
the charity’s organisational works under the auspices of voting trustees and also seeks guidance and
structure and any wider views of volunteers in deciding activities to be undertaken and run for the
network with which the charity public benefit.
works;
relationship with any related Safeguarding policies are in place and checks are taken out on those parties; dealing directly 1:1 with the public at large.
trustees’ consideration of The Gathering Place partners with local associations, churches, help
major risks and the system houses, councils, homes for the elderly, mental health wards, and
and procedures to manage hospitals in order to provide tangible products, care packages, and
them. resources for the betterment of public health.

All trustees and volunteers give their time voluntarily and received no renumeration or other preferential benefits

Section C Objectives and activities

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Summary of the objects of the charity set out in its governing document 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 prevention, relief and support of those trapped in poverty cycles and those in need throughout Neath / South Wales by providing items, resources, and counselling services. We encourage and train volunteers and local leaders and network with regional organisations to directly impact the local community.
	In planning our activities for the year, The Gathering Place, its director, trustees, and volunteers kept in mind the Charity Commissions guidance on public benefit at our meetings and within our communications. The planned activities upon listing as a registered charity were as follows: - Prevention, relief, and support of those trapped in poverty cycles and those in need by offering free clothing, toiletries, food, drink, and dry goods procured via donations and purchase - Vehicular delivery of needed goods such as clothing and food to those in need, the hospitalised, isolated, elderly, the disabled, the impoverished, and the general public; as well as to other charities or voluntary bodies - Offering a safe and warm space for sanctuary at our 18 Queen Street, Neath, SA11 1DL location, free teas/coffees/refreshment, warm hub, recharging of devices, as needed counselling services, and care package pickup – including sleeping bags, tents, shoes, coats, and gear - Free general counselling / weekly meetings across multiple spectrums provided by approved volunteer counsellors – women’s outreach, homeless outreach, general outreach, and personal fulfilment - To provide free hosted dinners and luncheons for our women’s outreach and homeless outreach, stirring interest through signposting, social media, and word of mouth. These meetings provide counselling and volunteer opportunities to gauge the needs of the public and provide essential immediate services to those in need - A bi-weekly programme of adult oriented events, trainings, and activities designed to inspire creativity, music, and art; and provide a safe space and equipment free of charge to do so. We believe it is through discovering one’s creative nature that one can aspire to changing their lives and reality and that anyone that is in need can find hope and companionship through listening ears and willing hearts. These activities benefit those in need within our community by providing them with essential goods, services, counselling, and training to better their lives, induce self-confidence, and most importantly provide help in times of dire need. These activities also provide opportunities for volunteer and leadership growth, helping volunteers to become leaders, and those receiving services to become volunteers. We serve all people who may need our services regardless of age, gender, religion, or personal circumstances.

The prevention, relief and support of those trapped in poverty cycles and those in need throughout Neath / South Wales by providing items, resources, and counselling services. We encourage and train volunteers and local leaders and network with regional organisations to directly impact the local community.

Additional details of objectives and activities (Optional information)

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We are grateful for the hours that our volunteers have contributed to listening, offering ideas, and taking the weight of the charity upon their shoulders to see objectives through. Without the valuable contribution of our volunteers’ time, creative thinking, energy, and focus we would not have been able to re-adjust and achieve so much in so short a period.

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

policy on grantmaking;
policy programme related investment;
contribution made by volunteers.

Section D Achievements and performance

Summary of the main achievements of the charity during the year

1[st] Quarter (May – July 2022)

The first quarter of our 3rd year charity started with a flourish. Relocating our offices to 18 Queen Street Neath Town Centre SA11 1DL, and due to our continued growing relationship with our funders, we immediately set to work. Throughout April and May we continued to work with local charities and other organisations to meet the needs of our community while preparing to move into our new facility. Due to the amount of forecasted work and outreach to be done on the new charity office, we made a number of temporary fiduciary policy shifts for the year. Prior to this year, any expenditure over £500 was required to have a signed receipt from the director to be submitted for approval. For 2023, this number was shifted to £5,000 due to the amount of building materials needed to remodel the new facility. This temporary adjustment was a unanimous decision, with the decision made that at the completion of the year and of moving into the new facility, the policy would shift back to the £500 approval policy. Additionally, after meeting with the new property’s solicitors, we entered into agreement to pay a lump sum payment at the beginning of the year for the main floor rental of £11,500, removing the pressure of paying monthly payments. As we took possession of the building in late May, we agreed to pay the remainder of 2022’s rent payment at £6991.89. It was forecast that the remodel of the building would take approximately 2 months, through the majority of 2nd quarter 2022, with the majority of work undertaken by the director, volunteers, and occasional day labour when fitting. Additionally, as the charity offices underwent extensive remodelling, we would still fulfil our mission by delivering items to those in need and by working with other local charities.

2[nd] Quarter (August – October 2022)

2nd quarter brought the opening of our new Gathering Place facility in Neath Town Centre. With the remodel moving at an accelerated pace, we

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Section D Achievements and performance

opened our doors in early August to host a kids’ camp for children ages 5 to 15, offering children from all backgrounds and financial statuses access to the Gathering Place, providing kids’ activities, games, social opportunities, and more. This was an opportunity to introduce Neath to our “Project:Heal Backpack Programme,” primarily focusing on pre-teen and early teens school needs, offering backpacks filled with pens, pencils, rubbers, hi-liters, pencil bags, notepads, activity books, glue sticks, rulers, protractors, and activewear, and made available free of charge at our community hubs in Swansea before the start of term (and afterward by request via individuals, schools, councils, or other charitable organisations with whom we work). We would also resupply each "Backpack of Hope" throughout the year. The turnout for this programme was an undoubtable success, bringing awareness to Neath of our soon official opening. In October, we officially opened the Gathering Place outwardly to the public. The front facing shop where “everything is free” provides resources to the community free of charge - clothing, toiletries, and other items. The primary demographic of these facitlities were impovershed women, young mothers, and children. Additionally, we brought in coffee mornings on Wednesday, inviting others into our facility to deepen the sense of community. These measures brought a great deal of success and interest to the Gathering Place, with numerous news agencies contacting the Gathering Place for interviews. While the shopfront got people in the door, it was our counsellors and volunteers who were the shining stars. Opening up a variety of projects to the public including free movement and exercise clinics, abuse counselling, young mother assistance, mindfulness groups, homeless assistance, and much much more, the Gathering Place quickly became known as a holistic community centre, whose excellent services were provided absolutely free of charge to those in need. 3[rd] Quarter (November – January 2023) The 3rd quarter of our 3rd year provided a new opportunity for the Gathering Place, that of becoming Neath’s first officially registered Warm Hub with both the Welsh and Neath Port Talbot county government. With this recognition, the Gathering Place began serving more than 100 visitors per week and distributing more than £750 in personal heating items per week to homes in need in the form of “Warm Packs” in addition to providing the public coats, gloves, scarves, clothing, and more (valued at over £1,000 p/wk). With rising fuel costs placing a bind on impoverished homes, we began distributing packs designed to reduce energy consumption in the homes of those we serve. These packs included flat fan heaters, draught protectors, window insulation, foam insulation, hand warmers, flannel blankets, and much more. Additionally, we handed out on average more than 300 clothing, toiletry, and food items per week to those in need in our community through our shopfront. Again, our 3rd Q focus was on women and children in need, providing necessary items for home and school, additionally expanding our homeless outreach. Additionally, we began to explore options to open up our facility to be used by smaller micro-organizations for the public benefit, offering therapeutic art classes, writing courses, training, and the like. During this period, The Gathering Place made the national news (Wales Online), bringing increased attention to our programmes and bringing a dramatic increase in grants and awards and expansion of programmes.

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Section D Achievements and performance Donations in the form of clothing and toiletries increased exponentially, and soon we began to provide surrounding charities and churches with clothing, food, and toiletries Negatively, at the end of Q3, the facility above the Gathering Place’s location (due to a tip from volunteers from the Gathering Place) was raided as an illegal cannabis factory. While we assisted the police department in its investigation, our power was shut off due to finding the illegal growers were siphoning off of our power supply. Our electric supplier and National Grid quickly reattached our power supply, however we would enter into a long dispute with EDF over payment of the siphoned electricity. While siding in our favour, EDF stated they would start a new account for the Gathering Place (which they did), and delete the old account. However, instead of deleting the old account, it was somehow sent to a debt collector. We are still in process in having this old account that EDF stated we were not responsible for deleted. Even with the commotion of the take down of the illegal grow lab above us, the Gathering Place was still able to expand its mission focus outwards to the community, opening our computer lab to the public and beginning a Home Education and After School youth programme, providing community children from all walks of life access to tutors and teacher volunteers. 4[th] Quarter (February – April 2023) Quarter 4 was undoubtably our most successful quarter as a charity up to that date! With the expansion of programmes we brought on two new official Programme Directors - Rachel Edwards and Clare Bell. As the weight of work began to outweigh a single director (Ken Arrington), programme specific work began to be handed off to Rachel and Clare, with Rachel focusing on health and wellness directives and Clare handling all community relations. Clare, being a Neath native, quickly fell into a groove and began to shift to becoming the front face of the charity within the community. During this time, we additionally began to put an expansion in focus in place, beginning assessments to potentially bring on new trustees in 2023/2024 and new directorship as well, as Ken Arrington announced he would be relocating late 2023 to open a new charity opportunity. Additionally, we were approached by Neath Council to begin working in coordination with them to meet the needs of the community. Due to our immediate and increased success in meeting the needs of the community, meetings were held to allow Neath Port Talbot council use of our facilities free of charge, expanding service programmes to various groups such as adoptive mothers, mothers who have lost their children, trafficking and addiction recovery, providing school uniforms free of charge to children in need, and much more. This provides an even greater opportunity and holistic approach, addressing individuals' underlying needs by creating a supportive network that boosts their confidence, self-esteem, and sense of purpose within often overlooked communities. We empower them to break free from cycles of poverty, enhancing their access to vital services and opportunities, thereby enabling them to realize their full potential.

Section E Financial review

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Brief statement of the charity’s policy on reserves

At close of the day 30/4/2023, cash on hand at the bank was £3,597.71 in unrestricted funds. Due to relocation and massive outreach needs, we agreed to temporarily shift our reserves policy from 2 months/£6,000 reserves policy in 2022 to 1 month/£3,000 in 2023, with a return to a 2 month/£6,000 reserves policy in 2024.

Details of any funds materially in deficit

Not applicable

Further financial review details (Optional information)

In 2023 our primary sources of funding have been grants and donations You may choose to include (98.5%). We use the majority of our general funds towards our outreach additional information, where programmes. As 2023 was a time of exponential growth for the Gathering relevant about: Place, this was also time of massive expansion of our programme  the charity’s principal offerings, including all of our Project:HEAL programmes, Home School sources of funds (including and After School offerings, health and wellness, lending library, official any fundraising); Warm Hub status, mindfulness programmes, and much more. The  how expenditure has remainder of our general outreach funds go to upfitting our “in-needs” supported the key objectives area which is designed to supply new coats, clothing, hats, scarves, of the charity; shoes, and other related resources to any who may need assistance. We also provide teas/coffees/refreshment to anyone who wishes to stop by  investment policy and and come off the streets, as well as counselling and a listening ear. objectives including any ethical investment policy Our primary funder continues to provide an annual £20,000 grant on adopted.

Our primary funder continues to provide an annual £20,000 grant on January 5th and has agreed in principle to renew annual funding indefinitely as long as we can demonstrate we are committed to the established aims of our charity. These funds go to the operational costs of the charity (17.1% of our expenditures during this year in question) and training and resources (2.7%), with the remainder going towards outreach programmes and general support (75.6%).

The remainder of other funds raised (such as through the Lottery foundation) go to further funding of pilot programmes to meet the public benefit and reinforce programmes currently underway.

This year we received grants from the following foundations and grant making agencies: Community Fund Wales Arnold Clarke Morrisons The National Lottery Foundation The Moondance Foundation Leathersellers Foyle Foundation NPTCBC LocalGiving Community Matters

As we do not have any paid volunteers, staff, or trustees, funds received are maximised for public benefit.

Section F Other optional information

Future Plans and Developments for The Gathering Place

Introduction The year 2023 has been transformative for The Gathering Place, marked by significant achievements and challenges that have shaped our future plans and strategies. As we look ahead, we are focused on building upon our successes, addressing ongoing needs, and expanding our impact in

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the community. This report outlines our key initiatives and goals for the upcoming period based on the experiences and outcomes of 2023.

Facility Expansion and Community Outreach Our move to the new facility at 18 Queen Street, Neath Town Centre has provided us with an expanded platform to deliver essential services and support to our community. Building on the success of our initial programs, we will continue to offer a wide range of initiatives, including our programmes for homeless outreach, at-risk youth, young mothers, and support for abused women.

Warm Hub Initiative and Free Resources Shop One of our major focuses will be continuing to establish The Gathering Place as a "Warm Hub" during the winter months. This initiative aims to address rising energy costs and provide essential heating resources to low-income households. Additionally, our free resources shop will expand its offerings, providing clothing, toiletries, and other necessities to those in need.

Youth and Education Programs We are committed to supporting youth development and education. We will continue to supply educational resources to disadvantaged youths, ensuring they have the tools they need for academic success. Additionally, we will launch new initiatives, such as after-school programs and tutoring services, to enhance learning opportunities. Men's Group and Addiction Recovery Recognizing the specific needs of at-risk men in our community, we will establish a dedicated men's group focused on providing support, counseling, and resources for addiction recovery. This initiative aims to address the unique challenges faced by men in seeking help and creating a safe space for healing and growth.

Health and Wellness Services Expanding our health and wellness services will be a priority in the coming year. We will introduce new clinics and counseling programs to address mental health, abuse recovery, and overall well-being. These services will be provided free of charge, promoting holistic healing within our community.

Partnerships and Collaboration Collaboration with local organizations and government bodies will remain crucial to our success. We will strengthen existing partnerships and seek new collaborations to maximize our impact and reach more individuals in need. This includes working closely with Neath Port Talbot Council on joint initiatives and utilizing our facilities for community benefit.

Leadership and Governance As part of our growth strategy, we will review our governance structure and consider adding new trustees and directors. This will ensure effective leadership and management as we continue to expand our programs and services.

Financial Sustainability and Grants Securing financial sustainability is vital for our long-term success. We will actively pursue grants, donations, and support funding from various sources to sustain and grow our operations. This includes leveraging our increased profile and successful programs to attract funding opportunities.

Conclusion The Gathering Place is poised for a dynamic year ahead, with a clear vision and strategic plan to make a positive impact on our community. By focusing on key initiatives, partnerships, and financial sustainability, we are confident in our ability to continue serving those in need and fostering a supportive, resilient community.

Section G Declaration

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

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

Signature(s) Full name(s) Kenneth Arrington Position (eg Secretary, Chair, Chair etc) Date 14-01-2024

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Charity Name The Gathering Place

No (if any) 1189467

Receipts and payments accounts

Period start date Period end date To 5/1/2022 4/30/2023

For the period from

CC16a

Section A Receipts and payments

to the nearest £ - 5,000 - - - - - 5,000 - - - 5,000 5,000 - - - - - - - - 5,000 - - - 5,000 - - - - Restricted funds	to the nearest £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Endowment funds	Total funds to the nearest £ 71,084 1,156 5,000 - - - - - 77,240 - - - 77,240 63,088 2,237 967 14,261 1,599 1,315 - - - 83,468 - - - 83,468 - 6,228 - 9,825 3,597	Last year to the nearest £
			33,978
			1,260
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			35,238


			-
			-

			35,238

			22,759
			1,927
			1,151
			5,519
			89
			-
			-
			-
			-
			31,444



			-

			31,444

-	-	- 6,228	3,794
-	-	-	-
-	-	9,825	-
-	-	3,597	9,825

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 B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees	Details Cash at Bank Details none Details none Details Car Computer & Media Equipment Office Furniture - Décor Library and Resources Details none Signature *Total cash funds* (agree balances with receipts and payments account(s)) Clothing - Shelters - Trailer - Toiletries for distribution ~1,000 clothing items inc shoes, boots, coats, womens, mens, kids	to nearest £ to nearest £ 3,597 - - - - - 3,597 - OK OK to nearest £ to nearest £ - - - - - - - - - - - - Cost (optional) - - - - - Cost (optional) Unrestricted - Unrestricted - Unrestricted - Unrestricted - Unrestricted - Unrestricted - - - - - - - - - Print Name Kenneth RayArrington Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Fund to which asset belongs Fund to which asset belongs Fund to which liability relates Amount due (optional)	to nearest £ Endowment funds
			-
			-
			-
			-
			OK
			to nearest £ Endowment funds
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			Current value (optional)
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			Current value (optional)
			1,770
			9,245

			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			-
			When due (optional)






			Date of approval
		Kenneth RayArrington	1/3/2024

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/ THE GATHERING PLACE members of On accounts for the year 30 April 2023 Charity no 1189467 ended (if any) Set out on page 1-2

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the period ended 30 April 2023.

Responsibilities and As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation basis of report of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records

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

Signed: Date: 02 April 2024 Name: Chaweevan Williams FCCA Relevant professional Chartered Certified Accountants qualification(s) or body : Address: Verdant Accountants Limited 20-22 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU