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2024-03-31-accounts

York Travellers Trust

(A Charitable Incorporated Organisation)

(Charity number: 1189827)

Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2024

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

CONTENTS page
Trustees' Annual Report 1 - 25
Independent Examiner's Report 26
Statement of Financial Activities 27
Balance Sheet 28
Notes to the Accounts 29 - 37

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Introduction

York Travellers Trust (YTT) is the longest running registered charity within the United Kingdom that works primarily with Gypsy and Traveller Communities (GTC). Based in York and surrounding areas, we're here to support members of the GTC with various topics such as finance, education, health, and experiences of discrimination. Our aim is to improve their physical and mental well- being and dispel mis-truths about the GTC within the local community, improving the lives of GTC and those they interact with.

This report presents key information in relation to the delivery and impact of our services in the 2023-24 financial year. Services and support that would not be possible without our funders including the National Lottery Community Fund ‘Safe Space Project’ (now entering its fifth and final year), Lankelly Chase, Moving for Change, Joseph Rowntree Foundation, and Two Ridings Community Foundation among others.

If you would like more information about the content of this report, or the work we do, please feel free to contact us at:

York Travellers Trust, 20 Falsgrave Crescent, York, YO30 7AZ

T. 01904 630 526

E. info@ytt.org.uk

W. https://www.ytt.org.uk/

Acknowledgements

As we reflect on another impactful year at YTT, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our success.

Firstly, our clients. Your loyalty, trust, and feedback are the foundation of our efforts. You inspire us to continuously improve and remain dedicated to supporting the Gypsy and Traveller Communities in York.

We extend our sincere thanks to our hardworking employees, volunteers, and Trustees. Your dedication and effort have been vital to our achievements. Your passion and perseverance drive our progress and success.

We are also very grateful to our funders and partners. Your support and flexibility are essential in helping us achieve our goals. Your contributions allow us to expand our reach and impact.

A special thanks goes to our families, friends, and everyone in our wider communities. Your encouragement and support have been invaluable, providing us with strength and inspiration.

Looking back on the past year, it is clear that our collective efforts have made all the difference. We are excited for the future and the new heights we can reach together. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your continued support!

Violet Cannon, Director

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Board of Trustees

We are sorry to report that Martin Williams resigned from the Board in September 2023. Martin was a very active member of the Board acting as Treasury and Secretary at different times. However, hope we have not lost him for his after role as Santa at the family Christmas Party! Our thanks go out to him.

Despite the loss of Martin, we can report a good to our efforts appoint new Trustees have borne fruit. In our November 2023 meeting Patrick O’Kelly and Tom Beer were appointed. Both Patrick and Tom have law degrees, but Patrick has moved into charity funding and Tom into planning advice (as well as being a musician). Tom took on the role Secretary in February 2024. Also in the February meeting, Kia Jackson and Michael Turnpenny were appointed. Kia’s expertise in the education as a former school head and lead inspector. Michael joins us from a background in museums, currently working at York Museum Trust.

While the new Trustees provide us with excellent skills and experience, we also recognise the current underrepresentation of the GTC on the Board. This is why the successful application to the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation (awarded in March 2024) is so important to the Board. As we move in to 2024-25, we hope that the learning from that will create new governance structures that will be truly sociocratic and build capacity and confidence in influencing change among our communities.

As the accounts demonstrate the financial position of the Trust is sound. At the beginning of the year, we budgeted for a deficit budget, but the outcome much better than expected. This is testament to the hard work of all our staff, but particularly Violet and Abigail in bringing income to the Trust.

Caroline Hunter, Chair

Treasurer Statement

This has been another positive year for YTT. We started the year with a deficit budget and ended it with a modest surplus. Credit for this goes to the staff team for the quality of their work, and their ability to demonstrate this to the broad range of funders who offer us financial support.

During the year our success in fundraising has enabled us to grow the staff team and double our expenditure on project and advice work. We continue to improve our Centre in Falsgrave Crescent, but the pressures on the building industry have resulted in us having to defer once again some of the improvements that we need, and for which we have resources set aside.

Our core activities continue to be underpinned by the important financial support offered by the National Lottery Community Fund. We are grateful for this core support, as we are for the project support offered by the Lankelly Chase Foundation, Moving for Change, Two Ridings Community Foundation, City of York Council, University of York, York CVS and the Barrow Cadbury Trust.

We move forward into the new financial year with confidence, anticipating that our strong staff team will have success in raising funds to meet the budgeted deficit, but in the knowledge that our modest reserves are there to cover any unexpected difficulties.

I am grateful to all our staff team who work on raising the finances for YTT, and in particular to Tony Clarke our Centre and Finance Manager, who manages the finances so admirably on a day-to-day basis.

Stephen Pittam, Treasurer

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The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) for the year ended 31 March 2024. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with statutory requirements, the CIO’s governing document and the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP FRS 102).

Reference and Administration Details

Charity Name York Travellers Trust Other Name(s) charity is known by YTT Registered Charity number 1189827 Company registration number CE022094 Charity’s principal address 20 Falsgrave Crescent Clifton, York, YO30 7AZ

Names of the charity trustees, who also manage the charity:

----- Start of picture text -----
Trustee Name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole period
----- End of picture text -----

Names of the charity trustees, who also manage the charity: Names of the charity trustees, who also manage the charity: Names of the charity trustees, who also manage the charity:
Trustee Name
Office(if any)
Dates acted if not for wholeperiod
Caroline Hunter
Stephen Pittam
Martin Williams
Claire Wilton
Abbie North
Joy-Kirsten Jackson
Michael Turnpenny
Tom Beer
Patrick O’Kelly		 Chair
Treasurer
Secretary		 (resigned 14 September 2023)
(resigned 17 May 2024)
(appointed 8 February 2024)
(appointed 8 February 2024)
(appointed 16 November 2023)
(appointed 16 November 2023)

Name of the Chief Executive or names of senior staff members:

Violet Cannon, Director

Structure, Governance, and Management

Description of the charity’s trust:

Governing Document Constitution How the charity is constituted Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered on 8[th] June 2020 Trustee selection methods Nomination and Co-option

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Objectives and Activities

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

To relieve the needs of the Gypsy/Traveller community in York and the surrounding areas by:

Our activities can be divided into 4 areas:

The trustees consider that they have complied with their duties to have due regard to the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.

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Achievements and Performance

Organisation

2023-24 was the fourth year of our Safe Space Project. During the year we have really seen the impact of the growth experienced by the Trust in the previous year. Our growth has had ripple effects across the Trust as our increased capacity has allowed us to thrive – being more strategic, less reactive and offering a flexible, accessible and client-led service that meet the evolving needs of the community.

ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

During the year the newly expanded team established themselves with each element of the service experiencing positive change that enhances other areas: the wellbeing work has brought integration and a client-led approach, and the research has increased confidence, ambition and focus of our strategic direction. Our collaborations are working to secure the sustainability of the organisation through the strengthening of existing relationships and growth of new relationships along with the continued recognition of the contribution we make in many areas – from clients, partners and other services locally and nationally.

Through this period of organisational development, we have seen a significant shift in the range and take up of support offered in the Living Room and Centre as a whole “It is literally a safer space”. The team has managed to ensure provision is underpinned by the principles of flexibility, consistency and that clients consistently feel listened to, heard and valued.

“We’ve assembled a team that has made a huge difference in terms of what we can offer, and it feels like we're able to meet needs better.”

“A lot of people have been let down by [other] services and it’s so important to them, and us, that we follow through. And we do.”

The organisational development has led to major advances in our client-led focus through an iterative process where we are constantly reflecting and learning. This approach has shown that clients feel invested in which, in turn, has led to them investing in the service by helping inform key aspects of service delivery. For example, offering wellbeing provision in alternative settings to the Centre at Falsgrave Crescent to address barriers to taking up the service.

“With the wellbeing service, we're constantly rethinking the offer, looking at it and going okay, well, this hasn't worked but that has, so we need to think differently. The wellbeing circle's been amazing in terms of that – informing how we shape services going forward.”

“The people we work with are feeling invested in and some are then investing in what we’re doing.”

We have grown in our ability to hold boundaries but remain flexible and focused.

“I’m proud of how we hold boundaries, how we remain flexible, but also remain focused at the same time. There's been a lot of that with Nicole's role. We've done a lot of talking about that.”

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The organisational growth has also brought challenges around and how to formalise aspects around policies and processes, for example:

“We’ve had conversations around race and different challenging conversations, and I guess we need to acknowledge that that's a challenge here. We've been doing this work looking at how we open up conversations, call people in, rather than calling people out and how we hold them. And I think that's been really big. I don't think we've solved it yet.”

Another area of organisational growth has been in the development of trauma informed services. This area has shaped the service we offer and contributed to us looking at becoming a trauma informed organisation[1] .

“A lot of services discharge clients if they miss consecutive appointments or behave a certain way. But we decided to scrap these rules and consequences for behaviour as often this can be a punitive experience for people if they have mental health issues. I recognise that all behaviour is communication, and my approach is, “come as you are, and I’ll meet you there”. Being person centred, I have got to be prepared to meet each person where they are at. Generally, human beings seek connection and safety, so if a person can’t address those needs, and are not showing up, we have to be curious about what are the barriers or conflict to that. Whilst we acknowledge that process and structure are part of any ethically supportive environment, we have removed the issue of morality and judgement. I’m able to still be here so people can come back when they feel safe and ready. A sense of autonomy and self-agency goes a long way to build trust. Not just trust between me and ‘client’ but trust within the client, to trust themselves. Which is an issue for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) or traumatic histories. Which impacts self-esteem and confidence. This knowledge [of the trauma people have experienced and how that can lead to certain behaviours] has shaped the service we offer and contributed to us looking at becoming a trauma informed organisation.”

COLLABORATIONS

During this period there have been highly successful collaborations that have had a significant impact on the visibility and recognition of the organisation – the University of York, York Museum's Trust, U3A as well as within different departments of City of York Council (CYC) – the Education Department, Safety Enforcement and Public Health. The involvement in CYC’s strategy group has played an important role in progressing these relationships.

“We’ve built up strong relationships with schools in the city. We’re recognised by schools and CAMHS. Other services recognise what we offer and the contribution we can make. People know we’re here – clients, other services, local community.”

“The output from the education research collaboration with the University of York has produced really usable research and it feels like we've got the right people kind of listening to us and interested in it so. It's been really good because it's kind of happened in conjunction with having a little bit of money from a local authority to spend on work with schools.”

1 . https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-definition-of-trauma-informed-practice/working-definition-oftrauma-informed-practice.

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DATA

The introduction of a case management system (Lamplight) into our workflow at YTT proved to be a turning point for us as an organisation. It has enabled us to collect and access data in a way we couldn't before. It helps us track our work, its reach, and the impact we're having through our in-house performance management framework. While we've made great strides in gathering this important data, our work is far from done. The next step is to fully utilise this wealth of information, to explore what it's telling us, and to let it guide us on our mission. We're excited about what we'll learn and how we'll grow as a result, and we're committed to using these insights to drive our strategy moving forward.

We will also continue to deepen our evaluation processes, ensuring that we capture and analyse impact data comprehensively. This will involve ongoing assessment and refinement of our data collection and analysis methods. For example, t o further support our understanding of impact, we developed a case study template. These case studies, some of which are contained throughout this report, provide detailed insights into individual experiences and outcomes, highlighting the tangible differences our services make.

We are proud to share some key figures, which demonstrate the breadth and impact of our work, both below and throughout this report:

WORKFORCE

2023-24 has seen the expanded YTT team – Centre Manager, Caseworker, Youth Worker, and Integrative Wellbeing Support Worker – working coherently to offer a more accessible and client led service. The team’s breadth of skills and expertise have bolstered capacity and priorities which has had a significant impact on the progression and development of the Trust.

The varied skillset and dynamics of the team and consolidation of resources has resulted in successes in many areas of provision – most notably flexible and responsive case management, client-led delivery, research and strategic development to effect systemic change in local authority (through the work with education and planning department).

The increase in capacity has meant the service can have more of an impact on the local non-Gypsy and Traveller community – building bridges between communities and raising awareness of YTT. This is evident in The Living Room which has become more established, attracting a regular audience comprising a wide variety of people. The further development of the Living Room is a priority for this next year but along with Catch Up Club has made huge progress in terms of its positive impact on clients and the development of the Trust.

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Having recognised last year that trust, communication and clearly defined goals are key to ensure the team is working coherently together – trust and mutual respect amongst the team is strong, with members recognising different strengths and areas of expertise. This is undoubtedly helped by the continual prioritisation of making spaces for open conversation.

Feedback has confirmed that the team are a major draw for clients and a key factor in people choosing to engage with the Trust and access the provision.

“We’ve had feedback from clients saying they choose to come because of the staff.”

VOLUNTEERING

This year we’ve had two regular volunteers supporting our food stall and several clients who act as microvolunteers at specific trips, activities and events. This works for many of our clients as the regular commitment of traditional volunteering requires a certain level of privilege, both in terms of time and finances. Over the next year we hope to develop volunteering opportunities that are focused on building specific, relevant skills and experiences for interested individuals which work alongside their personal experiences.

“Initially, I began volunteering at YTT’s food bank because I was in the early stages of recovering from mental health issues and felt that I wasn't ready for employment. Additionally, I contributed to the Olio food app and had leftover food, so I decided to bring it to YTT. This is how my involvement with YTT began. I have dedicated over 3 years to volunteering at YTT, which has allowed me to rebuild my confidence and collaborate with others by volunteering once a week. Due to my anxiety and poor health, I used to be quite isolated and rarely went out. However, the team at YTT immediately made me feel like a valued member. As my confidence grew, I started engaging with clients at the food bank, making them feel welcome by having conversations and offering them a cup of tea in YTT’s public living room. I also began assisting other staff and volunteers in distributing food and ensuring fair sharing. Currently, I am employed by another charity and running my own written courses, but I continue to volunteer at YTT’s food bank once a week. I find this experience enjoyable, and it helps me establish connections within my local community.” (Harrie – Volunteer, They / He).

CLIENT SURVEY

This year, YTT conducted its first-ever end-of-year client survey, aiming to gather comprehensive feedback from those we serve. The survey was promoted to all our clients, resulting in 24 responses.

The feedback from clients of YTT has been overwhelmingly positive. The majority of clients found it easy to communicate with the staff and felt that their views and worries were taken seriously. There is a high level of satisfaction with the knowledge and capability of the staff to address their problems. Clients appreciated having an active role in shaping the support they received, and they were able to access support at convenient times and locations. The facilities were considered comfortable, and the vast majority would recommend YTT to friends and family.

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Overall, the help provided by YTT was rated highly, with no significant areas for improvement identified in the qualitative feedback. Clients expressed gratitude for the support and emphasised the unique understanding and non-judgmental approach of YTT. These findings highlight the positive impact of YTT's services and underscore the importance of continuing to provide tailored, empathetic support to the Gypsy and Traveller communities.

Building on this, we plan to repeat the survey next year and aim to increase the number of responses. By expanding our reach, we hope to gain even more detailed insights that will further enhance our services and impact.

Strategic Work

Strategic work is an important part of the work that YTT undertakes. It is vital to ensure that changes are longlasting and far-reaching as part of a wider system response to the challenges faced by GTC. Some of the strategic work that we have delivered this year are included below.

GYPSY TRAVELLER WORKING GROUP

The actual work within the Gypsy and Traveller Working Group has been slow this year, mainly due to the new labour administration in York not fully understanding its purpose and wanting to assert ownership of the group. That said the ripple effects have been quite simply amazing, the education work carried out at YTT, work to get an accessible leaflet to accompany the licence agreement and residents on all three sites to finally have safe and secure post boxes at the entrance of the sites.

MOVING FOR CHANGE

YTT continues to be a key member of ‘Moving for Change’, a network of GTC organisations across the UK. This membership gives us great access to a wonderful and unique network of people and organisations facing similar experiences. It also gives us vital knowledge to respond to some of City of York Council’s actions and comments. Our ‘Moving for Change’ contacts also give us the opportunity to shape their application process for GT-specific cost of living and energy crisis support. Moving for Change continues to be part of our strategic plans moving forward, and we have secured funding for YTT time and resource in the coming year to explore encampment and Police, Crime, Sentencing and Court (PCSC) Act responses within York. We also secured funding for our Mentee and for Cost-of-Living Grants for families who had received no support from Central Governments initiatives.

CITY OF YORK – NEW LOCAL PLAN

As see reported last year, City of York Council is developing a new Local Plan that sets out their vision for housing, business construction and infrastructure development. Following our presentations about matter of accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers in the Plan, the Inspectors agreed that a further hearing was necessary. This took place in early March 2024. Given the importance of the hearing YTT instructed Marc Willers K.C. to represent YTT at the hearing. In their decision the Inspectors said: “We have significant misgivings about the proposed expansion of the site at Outgang Lane, Osbaldwick” and the Council are consulting on further changes to the Plan. YTT will submitting to that consultation in 2024-25.

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YORK TOGETHER

York Together is a constituted but unincorporated group of individuals from across York coming together to challenge social injustice by connecting people and projects in meaningful ways and supporting change makers across the city. This will be done by distributing funding, challenging current thinking and creating the space for people to act and learn together to change the status quo. Our Community Development Lead is a part of York Together as it provides the opportunity to make connections across the city and build allies to work towards a more just city for everyone, including Gypsies and Travellers.

JOSEPH ROWNTREE FOUNDATION (JRF) – NEW CONSTELLATIONS

This year we embarked on an exciting journey funded by Joseph Rowntree Foundation. A New Constellations journey is an incomparable experience. It’s fun, thought provoking, challenging, intense, and notoriously difficult to describe.

The way in which these journeys have been designed completely challenges the norm, creating moments that ignite optimism and possibility. A collective journey of relationship building, imagination, and creative exploration, which challenges our ideas of reality and space. curate a group with a mix of world-views, racial and faith backgrounds, lived experience, class, age, and sexual orientations and identities. The chosen group features a rich tapestry of residents, including front-line workers, leaders in cultural and heritage organisations, local politicians, small business owners, community organisers, artists and makers, and people with lived experience of navigating oppressive systems. This work brings together a group of people who hold each other accountable, it also provides YTT with the opportunity of being in much bigger conversations in York.

FRIENDS, FAMILIES AND TRAVELLERS – CRIMINAL JUSTICE

We are excited to be working have been asked to be involved in the wider work of Friends Families and Travellers, who are looking at the Criminal Justice System on a National Level. They invited us to be involved within the work, we are excited to see the outcome of this work where our clients will have a much-needed voice.

HULL MUSEUM

YTT were approached by Hull Museum during Lock Down to work on a panel looking at Jack Cunnigham VC (https://www.proudgypsytraveller.co.uk/2016/10/07/1182/), sadly we didn’t have the capacity at the time so had to decline. Thankfully the wonderful team at the Hull Museum Trust came back to us to look at a permanent Exhibition within their Street Life Museum. We were at first hesitant, but upon hearing that the exhibition was to be permanent we changed our position. We worked with GTC families in and around Hull to ensure they felt they were truly represented within the exhibit. Feedback from visitors has been wonderful and we were proud to be nominated and win a Team Hull Respect Award for the work. We feel this is an excellent opportunity for York Museum Trust to see what we can achieve and to inspire them to offer us a permanent exhibit within their museums.

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Research

While the GTC have been the subject of numerous studies, these communities are often understudied compared to others, in part due to the challenges associated with gaining access and building trust. However, interest in researching these communities has increased over the years, driven by a desire to understand their unique culture, as well as to address issues of social justice, human rights, and inequality. This impacts greatly on provision of services and funding, both nationally and locally. We believe that the best research is conducted by, and with, communities and have worked with partners over the past year to research the topics that are important to Gypsies and Travellers so that they can take on lead roles in the research and be paid for their time.

This year we have taken time to pause and consider what and how we want to research, resulting in less research conducted than in recent years. We are often approached by outside organisations and academics who want to conduct research with GTC, driven by a desire to understand their unique culture and to address issues of social justice, human rights, and inequality. This can impact greatly on provision of services and funding, both nationally and locally, yet because we believe that the best research is conducted by, and with, communities, it also requires a lot of resource from YTT. This means that for each research request we must consider alignment with our specific aims, what reach the results will have and what funding is available to support the work. We have therefore created a new research enquiry form available on our website to support us in fielding requests. Research projects currently being developed for next year focus on mental health provision, suicide prevention and the impact of intergenerational trauma on GTC.

Link to research enquiry form on YTT website – https://www.ytt.org.uk/research-and-resources

EDUCATION

As our work with young people has developed, we have become increasingly aware of the challenges faced by young Gypsies and Travellers in education. Whilst it is nationally acknowledged that Gypsies and Travellers have the worst educational outcomes of any ethnic group in the UK (Women and Equalities Report, 2019) very few recommendations have been implemented to improve this reality and there was no data to support a strategic approach to GT education locally. With funding from University of York and support from the local authority, we were able to dedicate staff time and contract an education consultant to carry out in depth interviews with young people and parents, analyse statistical data from the local authority and write a report with suggested ways forward that will be launched next year.

“[The school thinks] none of them go to secondary school. They’re not going to make anything of their lives. They don’t want a career … [but] there are some Travelling kids what do want to go and do things,” (Parent)

“And then I’m telling them [about racist bullying] multiple times. Like I keep telling them it’s happening again. It’s happening again. So, I go and tell them. But when I tell them I say it in the wrong tone of voice, then I get excluded.” (Young person)

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Training

Our Safe Space Training is core to our mission of improving outcomes for Gypsies and Travellers in York and surrounding areas as it creates opportunities for professionals and residents to learn about the communities from community members themselves. With a focus on creating safety so that participants can ask their honest questions without fear of judgement, we debunk myths and provide alternative narratives to those displayed in the media. By working predominantly with groups of peers from within one workplace, we provide practical, context specific advice on how to engage with GTC, recognise unconscious bias within policies and procedures and ensure that services are accessible to all. On top of this, training is also important to sustainability as an organisation s it is an opportunity to generate earned income. This financial year we have delivered training to:

Qualitative feedback:

“I really liked the anonymous questions and discussion. I found it genuinely interesting and thought provoking. I also found Violets personal experiences to be really engaging and educational, so thank you for sharing those with us as a group.”

“I have a better understanding of York's varied communities. I will advocate for the GRT community, and will incorporate what I learnt about GRT history and culture into my work.”

“I feel like my whole perspective has changed in regard to my unconscious bias and I'm really thankful for the training as I now feel confident to engage and support the Traveller community in my role.”

Quantitative feedback:

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Case Work

Case work, which involves providing support on an individual or family basis, is a significant part of our offer. Due to the unique challenges and needs of the GTC, case work can be particularly beneficial and make a significant positive impact on people’s lives.

This year we have seen a very large increase in the amount of case work delivered with our clients due to the appointment of a dedicated case worker who comes to YTT with a wealth of experience in the advice and guidance sector (476 sessions compared to last year’s 201). The most common issues people are seeking support for are benefits, housing and adult social care as well as support with grant and goods applications, challenging discrimination and other financial support.

Case work often acts as a first point of contact for new clients as people feel more confident asking for help with paperwork than they do talking about their mental health, financial difficulties, or isolation. Where people may not trust mainstream services due to experiences of discriminations, clients are confident that our team will not only understand their culture but support them to challenge racism when it arises in their interactions with other professionals / services. Importantly, our Case Worker works closely with our Integrative Wellbeing Worker to ensure that clients receive holistic support, addressing the structural external issues that impact upon a person’s mental health whilst receiving mental health support.

As trust has developed in our case work, we are seeing increasing demand for the service and are therefore hoping to increase our case work hours over the next year.

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SUPPORTING CLIENTS WITH PRIVACY CONCERNS

During the last year we have supported over 40 clients who don’t want to be recorded in our case management system (Lamplight) or be seen by non-GTC staff members. They vary drastically in their reasoning. Support can vary from issues around benefits, safety and domestic violence. Some of the individuals are from families whose personal view is that claiming benefits is a weakness that could bring great shame on themselves and the wider family. A great deal of work is carried out to unpick these perceptions and support people to claim benefits if they are entitled. Others choose to not use the full YTT support package due to similar feelings of judgement. We recently supported a young family, the mother who had recently gone through a period of selfdiscovery and acceptance as part of the LGBT community. This caused huge backlash from her children’s father, and we supported in getting her rehoused and supported within Yorkshire. Providing support that is sensitive to stigmas and work to unpick and challenge these perceptions is vital. It allows our community to access the help they need without feeling shame or bringing perceived dishonour to their families.

Case Work Case Study

A GTC couple needed help with housing. With severe respiratory problems their accommodation was making health conditions worse. As existing Council tenants, they had already applied to the City of York Council Housing Registrations teams for a transfer to another property. The repairs that could be carried out had been completed but there continued to be significant issues with mould.

The client signed a form of authority so that I [their YTT Case Worker] could contact the Council on their behalf. The Housing Registrations team emailed the latest Allocations Policy to me (the one available online had been superseded). Referring to the policy I was able to check the criteria for the banding for housing applications. I confirmed that the client was only in Silver band. I supported the client in getting medical evidence about the health and wellbeing gain that the clients would experience following a change of accommodation. The Registrations team made the decision to place them in Gold band with a maximum backdate to when the respiratory problems were first reported. The banding and the date of banding can all impact on the likelihood of a having a successful bid on a property. The clients also needed help with reading and writing so I continued to support them to access the online Housing Portal to view properties, locate them on google maps and have discussions about the properties on offer.

The couple have moved into a new property, and they have reported an improvement in their health since. The new property is also closer to family members who provide them with support. I shared the updated Allocations Policy with our link adviser from Citizens Advice. They circulated this within York Citizens Advice benefiting more individuals. Up-to-date information is critical to advice work.

This was my first housing case. I developed a form of authority for clients to sign so that the Council could share information with me. I now use this for all cases, and I believe it has significantly improved the speed of applications and verification of information. The Registrations team have responded positively to collaborative working with the aim of processing cases correctly and as quickly as possible. Ideally, I would like the City of York Council to make their current policy available on their website.

“You got me further up the list, near the top so it was a good thing, it’s nice where I am now. I don’t go wheezy as much as I used to.” (Client)

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TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Wellbeing

Gypsies and Travellers are three times more likely to experience anxiety and twice as likely to experience depression than the general population (Friends, Families and Travellers, 2023[2] ). Irish Travellers are six to seven times more likely to complete suicide than the general population (Department of Health, 2020[3] ) and although there is a huge gap in data, we know anecdotally that this persists across other GTC.

Within this context and thanks to funding from the NHS Community Mental Health Transformation Grant, we have developed our mental health and wellbeing offer this year by employing a dedicated Integrative Wellbeing Worker who is a qualified counsellor with two decades experience in the mental health sector. Whilst all our work aims to support wellbeing, this service is committed to developing mental health support that is culturally appropriate, relevant and accessible. It is co-produced with members of York’s GTC and is responsive to arising needs. At present it consists of:

1-2-1 WELLBEING SESSIONS

We delivered 1-2-1 wellbeing support to 31 individuals throughout the year, ranging from one-off microinterventions to longer term support spanning 10+ sessions. We provided a safe and confidential space to be able to explore emotional wellbeing, using a mindful listening approach, where we listen, without interruption, judgment or need to fix. We also offered practical support such as booking GP appointments, accessing medication and internal referrals to case work support to address external factors impacting on mental health. Much of this work happens alongside other activities and events as the Integrative Wellbeing Worker becomes a familiar and trusted face within the organisation.

WELLBEING CIRCLE

The Wellbeing Circle, or ‘Barmy Army’ as members have named it, is a vital part of our wellbeing offer and acts as part peer support group and part decision making group to develop the service. It consists of five individuals and meets weekly with people receiving renumeration in vouchers for their time. Everyone involved in the circle has received wellbeing support at YTT and is passionate about supporting their communities to improve mental health. They make decisions about how to ensure the support is accessible, how to let people know about the support and how to reduce stigma around mental health and asking for help.

2 Friends, Families and Travellers (2023) Research Summary: Experiences of Suicide in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. Available online: https://www.gypsy-traveller.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/09/Research_summary_experiences_of_suicide_in_Gypsy_Roma_and_Traveller_communities.pdf. Accessed 24 June 2024.

3 Department of Health (Last updated on 26 October 2020) All Ireland Traveller Health Study: Our Geels - Summary of Findings. Available online: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b9c48a-all-ireland-traveller-health-study/. Accessed 24 June 2024.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

WHAT’S NEXT?

From the first Wellbeing Circle session it has been clear that many Gypsies and Travellers are concerned about the mental health and wellbeing of their young people. Concerns about how children are coping were also common issues arising in 1-2-1s and it has become increasingly clear to us that we can’t support the mental health of Gypsies and Travellers without supporting full families. It can also be easier for an adult to reach out for support for their children than for themselves, so wellbeing support for young people could be the hook that brings in adults who are less likely to seek mental health support. Therefore, our focus for the next year is to develop a larger wellbeing service that is able to work with families and carry out work with young people as well as adults.

Wellbeing Case Study

I offered 1-2-1 person-centred counselling and talking therapy. I also offered support and encouragement for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) application process to relieve their financial and health burden. Lastly, I offered encouragement and support to process barriers and for taking prescribed medication.

After therapy ended, the client started to help within the public living room to build their confidence and reduce social isolation. They also helped with our community garden, became a member of the peer-lead group wellbeing circle, and are now taking prescribed medication to manage their symptoms much better.

The client is now in receipt of PIP benefit, which relieves stress of finances and gives autonomy over their work. They no longer experience thoughts to end their life and have a greater sense of meaning and worth in their own life. The client has become a strong advocate for talking about mental health and depression. Especially, in men.

The continuity within the service for support, as well as using their own skills to volunteer, increased their feelings of worth, value and meaning. It also provided much needed structure and routine. The consistency of staff and environment offered a safe space that was accessible and welcoming. The fact that the 1-2-1 support was open ended and not restricted to several weeks gave a more organic process without limits, and the transition from counselling to being a member of the service that is valued helped validate their progress and added more self-agency.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The client struggles with some learning difficulties. On reflection, I will give more time and space to ensuring clients comprehension of the spoken word and more simple terms will be communicated.

“It is helping me feel better about myself. And when I help, it makes me feel good to help others. It’s hard but I did it, and it feels positive … Coming in and talking things and being open about what I can’t do helps. The first time I did it, I didn’t want to talk but now it feels good … It helps that it’s my choice to come. I’m not forced and if I can’t make it one week, its fine … We are just learning as we go … Thank you for getting me here.” (Client)

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Events

Our events are a big part of YTT. We run events which are open to all our GT communities and the local community, and some that are just for GT. They bring together old and new clients together to create positive memories of YTT and remind them of the varied services they have on offer. Family is key for many Gypsies and Travellers so events that bring whole families together always have a good turnout, allow staff to build positive relationships and tackle isolation within the communities.

GYPSY ROMA TRAVELLER HISTORY MONTH EVENT (LAUNCH EVENT AT MUSEUM).

This year we celebrated Gypsy, Roma, Traveller history month at York Castle Museum with the launch of our co-produced exhibition. We had live music and peg-making demonstrations from community members and speeches from YTT Director Violet and the new CEO of York Museums Trust. There was over 30 people in attendance.

SUMMER PARTY

Our summer party was held out the back of YTT with a BBQ, music, games and a very popular raffle! We saw 40 people attend with representation from all three GTC sites in York, the housed GTC and our local, non-GT, neighbours.

WILDLIFE PARK

15 people attended a trip to the Askham Bryan Wildlife Park during the summer holidays.

HULL MUSEUM TRIP

Four clients went to the Hull Street Life Museum with one of our Support Workers to view the new permanent exhibition about Gypsy and Traveller history. It was a nice day out with food and people got ideas for future history projects.

HALLOWEEN PARTY

The Halloween party is one of our biggest events every year, having 64 people this year. This is mainly young people who are too young for our education projects who come to YTT for parties to build up positive memories which will hopefully see them return for other support if needed in the future.

QUAKER EVENT

As we’ve had lots of ongoing conversations about our building this year, we hosted an event for Quakers, our landlord, who are members of York Area Meeting. Through storytelling and films, we shared the history of YTT, the longstanding relationship between Quakers, Gypsies and Travellers in York and the vital work that happens in their building today.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH

Our Christmas dinner event is all GTC members that come together at Christmas, each individual cooks something different and brings it along to share. We all sit down together and celebrate with Christmas music, lunch and a cracker.

EASTER PARTY

We usually run our Easter party outside, if the weather is nice. It’s a great way to involve the locals, which have gone on to use our other services. This year we had 32 people at our Easter party decorating cakes, making baskets and playing musical bunnies!

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Education

WORK WITH SCHOOLS.

Thanks to support from the Local Authority Education Department, we have been able to dedicate some time this year to supporting young people who are facing challenges at school. Working with advice from an education consultant we have been able to spend time with young people to understand the challenges they’re facing, support parents at meetings to advocate for their children’s needs and advise schools on specific support needed. We have supported seven young people and seven parents with this work, all of whom remain in school.

“It's huge, we keep on having people coming in and asking for help with kids at school and I think that's a national picture as well I don't think it's just Gypsy and Traveller kids, but I think it's where things are bad, they're worse for those kids they've had lots of kids are struggling and disproportionately I think Gypsy and childhood kids are struggling.” (Abigail)

During the last quarter of this year, we have started to develop an alternative provision offer for schools because of some of the challenges we were seeing in the above work. This enables schools to fund us to provide 1-2-1 education and wellbeing support to young people as part of their weekly timetable. Currently two young people have benefitted from this offer, and we hope to develop and expand the alternative provision over the next year.

ELECTIVE HOME EDUCATION (EHE)

Functional Skills

Six young people aged 11-15 were enrolled on our Functional Skills programme in September 2023. Delivered by two qualified teachers, they attend YTT for 3 hours a week develop their English and Maths skills and work towards Functional Skills qualifications. This was developed out of direct feedback from parents about what they wanted their children to focus on and attendance has been good.

“On a Thursday we are working with six young people who come in and work on their functional skills. We have seen rewarding outcomes, as they have grown in confidence. Not just within their functional skills, but also with talking to people and each other as well. They were invited to a primary school where they gave a talk to young people who are in mainstream education of some of the things they faced when they were in that environment and how it made them feel. This went down very well, and they went on to been invited to another school, this has built their self-confidence no end. The young people also ran a stall at an event we held in which they had a small amount of money to buy resources with and then sell their product to people. Any money they made went towards a trip of their choosing. I am so proud that we are part of helping them to become confident adults within their own community. We hope to refine and develop our offer for EHE young people over the next year to create clear pathways and holistic support which includes wellbeing support and vocational skills development.” (Paula)

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1-2-1s

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

For those young people who didn’t get a place on our Functional Skills programme or need something different, our Youth Worker offers 1-2-1 education sessions. With an initial period of six weeks which can be extended if appropriate, the sessions are planned around the specific interests of the young person and bring in elements of the functional skills English and maths curriculums. Examples include young people developing business plans, engaging in TikTok terms and conditions and writing short stories.

Education Case Study

S is 15 years old and came to YTT in March 2023, due to their family looking for educational support. She is Elective Home Education with the family providing a home education, however wanted support from YTT to offer more educational possibilities as she had a secure knowledge of all the educational support that the family could offer without outside help. S doesn’t have many opportunities to socialise with others her age and lacks confidence speaking to young people and professionals alike. She had negative experiences at school, which had impacted on her confidence in educational settings. However, since coming to YTT, it has been evident that S is a bright young lady, with lots of interests and skills that can be developed further. Her family were keen for her to develop her confidence, both in terms of education and socialising.

S participated in an entry to Functional Skills course, presenting a short story she had written and illustrated, demonstrating the English and Maths skills she’d learnt to a small audience. The client then began 1-2-1 sessions from September 2023, focusing on tailoring English and Maths to her interests. To support S’s desire to apply for college and become more comfortable in groups, they were invited to participate in group sessions that focused on developing leadership skills through developing a piece of artwork about GTC history and heritage alongside some peers, which will be shared with the public.

S has been able to explore in detail how their interests are related to Maths and English skills, increasing their confidence in these areas. She feels more settled in an educational setting, describing how 1-2-1 sessions gives her a space to learn, compared to her experience in school where she felt ignored and disengaged. Through the group sessions, S has begun to establish friendships with others, sharing phone numbers so that they can continue chatting and working on the group project outside of YTT.

This piece of work demonstrates that by providing 1-2-1 support for young people over a long duration of time, confidence and belonging in educational contexts can be restored. The client has shown considerable progress on an educational and social level, which has been enabled by tailoring support around the individual client and challenging the client’s previous experience of feeling invisible in an educational environment.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“I am very happy. I can see a difference and the help that’s here has been a lifeline as we’ve tried so many places for support and we were referred to YTT by a friend. We were told we could help her, and you have, it fills that gap where there hasn’t been support and we can see that.” (Client’s Parent)

Food Stall

Our food stall has continued to bring new clients into YTT over the last year, with a total of 1,062 attendances. Whilst we regularly provide food for our GT clients, the vast majority of those using our food stall are non-GT, including both local residents and a number of Asylum Seekers. Many of those using the food stall stay to have a coffee in our public living room but people can also choose to just come for the food if they prefer. Our donations and funding for this project fluctuate throughout the year which causes challenges in providing a consistent service and standard offer of food. Fresh fruit and vegetables are available every week as we have committed to supplying that from our own funds, but dry goods can come and go.

Next year we will be resourcing a member of staff for one day a week to focus on developing the food stall and living room to grow donations and ensure our offer meets the wants and needs of those who use it.

Safe Space

PUBLIC LIVING ROOM

Our Public Living Room was launched in July 2022 and is open Monday – Wednesday from 10am to 2pm. Linked to the Camerados movement this is a welcoming space that Gypsy and Traveller people, and the wider York community, can use as they wish with no pressure to spend money or engage in services. Some people come to chat with our staff or volunteers, some enjoy meeting friends and neighbours there, others come just to sit quietly in a warm space with a good cup of coffee. If there is further support that someone is needing, then it’s also a gateway into our other services.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“The most rewarding part of working in the Public Living Room is seeing bridges being formed between the GTC and other communities in real-time. Watching how over the space of 6 months, the shift in members of different communities standing in opposite sides of the room to offering each other cups of tea shows how by letting others be themselves, the natural desire to show kindness to each other will eventually come out. There is still progress to be made, especially in allowing the GTC of York to take true ownership of the space and become more involved in creating a space that celebrates their culture. However, the impact of the Public Living Room, particularly in the past 12 months has been clear.” (Chris)

“Great to see the Living Room develop into a space where people, particularly GT community members, will drop by for a hot drink and a chat. Clients often arrive before appointments or activities and stay on after them to socialise. There’s more potential through increasing capacity and adjusting how the space is organised to attract others and add atmosphere.” (Tony)

“I think the public living room is working well for the day I am there, it’s good for non-GT and it makes YTT a place for all.” (Paula)

“I find the time spent in the public living room so rewarding, whilst I get very little real work done. The chance to chat and engage with people and to experience their warmth and gratitude first hand is wonderful, to find individuals so open and giving. So willing to share their lives with a relative stranger is amazing and I feel privileged to have that as part of my working week.” (Violet)

CATCH UP CLUB

As our longest running group, Catch Up Club meets every week and brings together women from across York’s GTC to cook, craft and most importantly catch up. As other aspects of our work open up, this group remains solely for Gypsy and Traveller women, is led by Gypsy and Traveller staff, and provides a space to offer informal yet essential peer support and friendship. There have been advances made in supporting people to show vulnerability:

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“I think Catch Up Club is a safe space, for the women to come in for whatever they are feeling that day, from a chat with the other women, to unwind if they are feeling stressed and overwhelmed with home life, to cooking and making crafts. They feel listened to and that their voice matters in an environment where there’s no judgement in any way. We have found that many of the women from Catch Up Club, have gone on to use our other services (such as mental health, financial support and education). I hope for the future that we can continue to grow and support the women in their needs.” (Eleanor)

Catch up club has grown massively; over the last 6 months we have doubled in size, averaging 15 women a week. This year has also seen huge advances in the foundations and structure of the group, with the team feeling that the Club feels more democratic and client-led.

“We’ve got members coming to Catch Up Club from other sites that didn’t come before. It’s led by the people that come along. They feel valued and recognised and that shows in how the group feels.” (Eleanor)

Plans for future periods

As mentioned above the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation (awarded in March 2024) is very important to the Board. As we move into 2024-25, we hope that the learning from that will create new governance structures that will be truly sociocratic and build capacity and confidence in influencing change among our communities. In addition, to support our growth and change we have started a review of our strategy and have planned an organisational review in 2024-25. The results of these will be reported in next year's Annual Report.

Financial Review

Income increased significantly during the year as the work programme develops (£283,786 from £239,909 in 2023). Rising expenditure matched the increase in income, especially in relation to salaries for our expanding staff team (£143,430 from £114,844 in 2023). It was gratifying that a small surplus of £2,924 was achieved over the year (£28,123 in 2023), and that Net Current Assets rose to £128,245 (£100,399), with the result that we move into the new financial year in a sound financial position.

Reserves Policy

The Trustees have agreed that the target level of reserves should be limited to three months running costs. In the current period these costs would be in the order of £70,000. Free reserves, being unrestricted funds not committed to fixed assets, amounted to £75,145 (2023 - £75,301).

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Funds materially in deficit

None

Declaration

Approved by the Board of Trustees on 12 September and signed on its behalf by:

Caroline Hunter Stephen Pittam Chair Treasurer

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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of York Travellers Trust for the year ended 31 March 2024.

This report is made solely to the Charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Section 154 of the Charities Act 2011. My independent examination work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Charity's Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity's Trustees as a body, for my independent examination work, for this report, or for the opinions I have formed.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation 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 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 examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true 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.

Adrian Rodaway BA, BFP, FCA, DChA HPH, Chartered Accountants 54 Bootham YORK YO30 7XZ

12 September 2024

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
3
Investments
Total Income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
Total Expenditure
5
Net (Expenditure) / Income
4
Transfers between funds
Net movement in funds
Total funds brought forward at 1 April
2023
Total funds carried forward at 31
March 2024		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
56,270
8,449
1,026
65,745
90,064
90,064
(24,319)
(759)
(25,078)
138,313
£ 113,235		 Restricted
Funds
£
216,805
1,236
-
218,041
190,798
190,798
27,243
759
28,002
25,098
£ 53,100		 Total
2024
£
273,075
9,685
1,026
283,786
280,862
280,862
2,924
-
2,924
163,411
£ 166,335		 Total
2023
£
215,226
24,334
349
239,909
211,786
211,786
28,123
-
28,123
135,288
£ 163,411

The notes on pages 29 to 37 form part of these accounts.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Charity number: 1189827

Notes
Fixed assets:
Tangible assets
8
Current assets:
Cash at bank and in hand
Debtors
9
Liabilities:
10
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Total Net Assets
The funds of the charity:
Unrestricted funds
12
Restricted funds
13
Total Charity Funds
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year		 Total
2024
£
38,090
142,262
44,690
186,952
(58,707)
128,245
166,335
£ 166,335
113,235
53,100
£ 166,335		 Total
2023
£
63,012
104,220
3,900
108,120
(7,721)
100,399
163,411
£ 163,411
138,313
25,098
£ 163,411

Approved by the Trustees on 12 September 2024 and signed on their behalf by:

Caroline Hunter

Chair

The notes on pages 29 to 37 form part of these accounts.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) Basis of preparation

The Accounts have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic or Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charites SORP (FRS 102)).

York Travellers Trust meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).

The principal address of the Charity is: 20 Falsgrave Crescent, York, YO30 7AZ

b) Preparation of accounts on a going concern basis

c) Funds structure

d) Income

Income is recognised when the Charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be reliably measured.

e) Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified under the following activity headings:

Expenditure on charitable activities relates to activities undertaken to further the purposes of the charity and includes their associated support costs.

f) Taxation

g) Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

h) Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the Charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in a transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

i) Fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets

Individual fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year and cost at least £200. They are valued at cost or, if gifted, at the value on receipt.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated at a rate to write off the cost of tangible fixed assets on a straight line basis over their estimated useful lives. The rates applied are as follows:

Fixtures and fittings Between 1.67% and 2% per month straight line - being the remaining term of the property lease

Office and other equipment 20% per annum straight line

j) Pension scheme

The charity pays defined contributions into personal pension plans for its employees. Pension costs are charged to the SOFA and represent the contributions payable by the charity in the year.

2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES

----- Start of picture text -----
|||||| |---|---|---|---|---| |Unrestricted|Restricted|Total|Total| |Funds|Funds|2024|2023| |£|£|£|£| |Grants|54,209|216,805|271,014|213,215| |Other donations|2,061|-|2,061|2,011| |£ 56,270|£ 216,805|£ 273,075|£ 215,226|

----- End of picture text -----

In 2023, income from donations and legacies amounting to £130,480 related to restricted funds.

3 CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

----- Start of picture text -----
|||||| |---|---|---|---|---| |Unrestricted|Restricted|Total|Total| |Funds|Funds|2024|2023| |£|£|£|£| |Consultancy and other income|£ 8,449|£ 1,236|£ 9,685|£ 24,334|

----- End of picture text -----

In 2023, other income of £146 related to restricted funds.

4. NET INCOME/EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR

----- Start of picture text -----
|||| |---|---|---| |The surplus for the year is stated after charging:|2024|2023| |£|£| |Depreciation|27,383|26,890| |Independent Examiner's remuneration|1,500|1,425| |Other fees paid to Examiner|2,447|2,843|

----- End of picture text -----

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

5. TOTAL EXPENDITURE

Charitable activities
Wages and salaries
Staff and volunteer expenses
Sessional work
Activities and outings
Governance costs:
Independent examiner's fees
Support costs:
Consultancy and advice
Rent and rates
Insurance
Heating and lighting
Office costs
Subscriptions
Repairs and maintenance
Professional fees
Sundry expenses
IT support and training
Training and development
Planning work
Depreciation
Total support costs
Total expenditure on charitable activities		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
15,124
2,508
1,428
1,535
20,595
1,500
-
13,704
1,579
4,868
3,736
85
6,550
2,447
1,534
385
698
5,000
27,383
67,969
£ 90,064		 Restricted
Funds
£
128,306
2,014
8,751
23,418
162,489
-
5,800
-
-
-
9,635
396
33
-
-
-
4,015
8,430
-
28,309
£ 190,798		 Total
2024
£
143,430
4,522
10,179
24,953
183,084
1,500
5,800
13,704
1,579
4,868
13,371
481
6,583
2,447
1,534
385
4,713
13,430
27,383
96,278
£ 280,862		 Total
2023
£
114,844
4,686
4,593
11,021
135,144
1,425
1,800
9,304
1,402
5,180
10,930
435
6,830
2,843
2,211
1,210
3,129
3,053
26,890
75,217
£ 211,786

In 2023, expenditure on charitable activities amounting to £104,798 related to restricted funds.

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YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

6. STAFF COSTS AND TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION

Gross salaries and wages
Employer's NIC
Employer's pension contributions		 2024
£
133,065
4,201
6,164
£ 143,430		 2023
£
106,499
3,629
4,716
£ 114,844

The average number of employees in the year was 7 (2023 - 5) . There were no employees with emoluments above £60,000 in the year (2023 - none).

No remuneration, benefits or expenses were received by any of the Trustees who held posts during the year in respect of their services to the charity.

The key management personnel of the charity comprise the Directors/Trustees, the Director (CEO), Community Development Lead and Centre Manager. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel were £101,989 (2023 - £60,483).

7. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

There were no related party transactions in the period.

8. FIXED ASSETS

Cost:
At 1 April 2023
Additions
At 31 March 2024
Depreciation:
At 1 April 2023
Charge for the year
At 31 March 2024
Net book values
31 March 2024
31 March 2023		 Office
and other
equipment
£
6,774
2,461
9,235
3,120
1,891
5,011
£ 4,224
£ 3,654		 Fixtures
& fittings
(Building
improvements)
£
104,565
-
104,565
45,207
25,492
70,699
£ 33,866
£ 59,358		 Total
£
111,339
2,461
113,800
48,327
27,383
75,710
£ 38,090
£ 63,012

All fixed assets relate to unrestricted funds.

32

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9.
DEBTORS
Trade debtors
All debtors relate to unrestricted funds.
10. CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year
Trade creditors
Taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income
Creditors totalling £nil (2023 - £961) relate to restricted funds.
11.
DEFERRED INCOME
Grants received in advance
Balance at 1 April
Released to statement of financial activities
Deferred in the period
Balance at 31 March
12. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS
Current year
Balance b/f
Incoming
Resources
01/04/2023
Resources
Expended
General
£ 138,313
£ 65,745
£ ( 90,064)
Comparative year
Balance b/f
Incoming
Resources
01/04/2022
Resources
Expended
General
£ 127,029
£ 109,283
£ ( 102,058)		 Total
2024
£
£ 44,690
Total
2024
£
3,824
2,179
1,215
51,489
£ 58,707
Total
2024
£
-
-
49,458
£ 49,458
Transfers
£ ( 759)
Transfers
£ 4,059		 Total
2023
£
£ 3,900
Total
2023
£
3,148
1,819
898
1,856
£ 7,721
Total
2023
£
5,000
(5,000)
-
-
£ -
Balance c/f
31/03/2024
£ 113,235
Balance c/f
31/03/2023
£ 138,313

33

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS

Current year
Barrow Cadbury
City of York Council
- Education
- Good Warm Space
- HAF Easter
- HAF Summer
- Ward Funding
Inspiring Choices
Joseph Rowntree
Foundation
Moving for Change
- Goverance
- Cost of living
- Local plan project
- Mentee
National Lottery
Community Fund
Reaching Out
Roadside Futures Project
Together with Young
People
Trailblazers
Two Ridings Foundation
- Betty's Family Fund
- Cost of Living
- MBSR Therapy
University of York
- Education Research
- Youth Work/Skills
York CVS
York Mind		 Balance b/f
01/04/2023
£
-
-
-
2,339
-
1,123
-
2,164
-
-
-
(3,215)
16,625
-
-
-
-
2,889
-
1,190
-
-
-
1,983
25,098
£		 Incoming
Resources
£
2,000
600
1,890
649
4,175
-
636
-
-
10,233
10,085
26,983
88,199
9,990
16,189
2,100
3,000
-
9,635
-
6,000
11,597
14,080
-
218,041
£		 Resources
Expended
£
(253)
(1,405)
(1,524)
(898)
(1,411)
(1,278)
(638)
(2,164)
(602)
(11,877)
(10,085)
(19,490)
(90,563)
(5,480)
(6,602)
(2,100)
(149)
-
(5,810)
(667)
(4,329)
(12,095)
(11,018)
(360)
(190,798)
£		 Transfers
£
-
-
-
-
-
155
2
-
602
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
£ 759		 Balance c/f
31/03/2024
£
1,747
(805)
366
2,090
2,764
-
-
-
-
(1,644)
-
4,278
14,261
4,510
9,587
-
2,851
2,889
3,825
523
1,671
(498)
3,062
1,623
53,100
£

34

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS (CONTINUED)

Comparative year
City of York Council
- HAF Christmas
- HAF Easter
- Ward Funding
Joseph Rowntree
Foundation
Moving for change -
Mentee
National Lottery
Community Fund
Together with Young
People
Tudor Trust
Two Ridings Foundation
- Betty's Family Fund
- MBSR Therapy
York St John University -
Prince's Trust
York Mind		 Balance b/f
01/04/2022
£
-
-
-
-
-
3,194
-
1,200
3,398
-
-
467
£ 8,259		 Incoming
Resources
£
1,490
2,596
4,000
7,515
20,000
83,900
3,600
-
-
4,980
849
1,696
£ 130,626		 Resources
Expended
£
(1,490)
(257)
(2,877)
(3,806)
(20,621)
(70,469)
(3,605)
(1,200)
(509)
(3,054)
(1,660)
(180)
£ ( 109,728)		 Transfers
£
-
-
-
(1,545)
(2,594)
-
5
-
-
(736)
811
-
£ ( 4,059)		 Balance c/f
31/03/2023
£
-
2,339
1,123
2,164
(3,215)
16,625
-
-
2,889
1,190
-
1,983
£ 25,098

Barrow Cadbury

Funding towards gathering data to better understand the impact of the justice system on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller young adults and their families.

City of York Council

Education – Funding towards supporting young Gypsies and Travellers in school through developing educational opportunities for young people from York’s Gypsy and Traveller communities. Good Warm Space – Funding towards maintaining the Public Living Room as a Warm Space during winter and providing food and toiletries to alleviate cost-of-living pressures.

HAF Easter/Summer/Christmas - Funding towards Holiday Activities and Food for families Ward Funding - Funding towards the Food Stall

Inspiring Choices

Funding towards food and travel to support work with young people.

Joseph Rowntree Foundation

Funding towards creating a Public Living Room including providing equipment and staff time.

35

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13. RESTRICTED FUNDS (CONTINUED)

Moving for change

Governance [restricted] – Funding towards administrative support including staffing costs for the Moving for Change organisation.

Cost of Living – Funding towards delivering direct financial support to individuals and families living roadside or in insecure accommodation.

Local Plan Project – Funding towards covering costs in the final stages of YTT’s engagement with the York Local Plan process.

Mentee - Funding towards a Professional Mentorship to recruit and develop a mentee Support Worker.

National Lottery Community Fund

Funding towards staffing costs, staff training, activity costs and IT costs.

Reaching Out

Funding to undertake a research project to evaluate mental wellbeing support YTT provides to Gypsy and Traveller communities.

Roadside Futures Project

Funding towards engaging with City of York Council to develop policy and adoption of Negotiated Stopping and with North Yorkshire Police on the implementation of the PCSC Act provisions on unauthorised encampments.

Together with Young People

Funding towards the Community Development Lead’s time participating in the ‘Holding the Space’ activity.

Trailblazers

Funding towards celebrating the history and heritage of York’s Gypsy and Traveller communities.

Two Ridings Foundation

Betty Family Fund - Funding towards the running of the youth club. Cost of Living – Funding towards financially supporting families during a cost-of-living crisis. MBST Therapy - Funding towards a Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction programme.

Tudor Trust

Funding towards improving the financial systems.

University of York

Educational Research – Funding to undertake a research project to identify and analyse the experiences of education for York’s Gypsies and Travellers.

Youth Work/Skills – Funding towards providing functional skills support to young people from York’s Gypsy and Traveller communities.

York CVS

Funding towards supporting adults with mental health needs including employment of an Integrated Wellbeing Support Worker.

York Mind

Funding towards the women's wellbeing project.

York St John University - Prince's Trust

Funding towards learning support for young people who have struggled in mainstream education.

36

YORK TRAVELLERS TRUST NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS - CONTINUED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

14. ANALYSIS OF THE CHARITY'S NET ASSETS BY FUND

Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Comparative year
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 Fixed
assets
£
38,090
-
38,090
£
Fixed
assets
£
63,012
-
63,012
£		 Net current
assets
£
75,145
53,100
128,245
£
Net current
assets
£
75,301
25,098
100,399
£		 2024
Total
£
113,235
53,100
166,335
£
2023
Total
£
138,313
25,098
163,411
£

37