MCCARTHY-DIXON A CHARITY FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY Annual Review & Accounts 2024 For the Financial Year: 1st April 2023 to 31st March 2024 The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation - Registered Charity Number:1190255
Contents General Information........... ................................... Charity Inf ormation, Governance, Trustees and Management About Our Organisation....................................... Background, Aims, Objectives and Who We Support Annual Review: Our Services 3-17 Food Bank......................................... Schools Partnership Program...................................................................... Weekly Social Clubs................... ....................................... ............................. Doorstep Buddies...................................................................................................10 Gardening Service....................................................................................................11 Home Improvements.............................................................................................12 1-1 Guidance, Advice and Support............................... .13 Cookery Classes.......................................................................................................14 Digital Inclusion..........................................................................................................15 Community Outreach............................................................................................16 Our Volunteers..........................................................................................................17 Financial Review............................................18- 20 Review, Accounts and Independent Examiner's Report MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
General Information Annual REW& Account$2024 Charity Information Full ChRrity Name The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation Address 67 Grove Road, Northampton. NNI 3LJ Contact Informatlon Website.. mccarthydixon.org.uk Bank Lloyds Bank 2 George Row, Northampton. NNI IDJ Email- hello@mccarthydixon.org.uk Phone.. 01604 211551 Governance The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation is a registered charity. governed by a constitution, operating as a CIO. The charity was registered on 6th July 2020, under Charity Number1190255, and prepared its firstset of account5 to 31st March 2021 on 26th January 2022. The charity started operating with effect from 30th March 2020. Trustees Steve Summers (Chair) Marie Lally (Secretary) Jackie O'connell (Treasurer) Mabule Sekanaisha Ca5wel Tema Pam Law Vince Doherty Mick Donnelly Graham Trotter MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 Pag•ld20
About our Organisation Annual REW& Account$2024 Background The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation was established in March of 2020, in direct response to the first COVID-19 lockdown. Due to the pandemic, many households across the Northamptonshire community were facing unprecedented challenges, f inancial hardship and crisis. Our organisation initially began work as an emergency food banK providing essential suppliesto households in need. While running this service, our organisation became acutely aware that there were innumerable further challenges afflicting local people, significantly impacting their emotional and physical wellbeing. Since then, the charity has continued to grow, adapting to meetthe evolving needs of our community. Our Aims, Objectives and Who we Support Poverty and Material Disadvantage.. We strive to combat poverty and disadvantage through our food bank and direct provision of essential items and material goods. as well as long term interventions and sustainable solutions through our wider services. We support people experiencing unexpected crises, and prolonged poverty or difficulty. Factors impacting these groups include butare not limited to.. suddenjob termination, temporary lack of access or total loss of state financial support (universal credit or benef its), sudden additional financial burdens, long-temi difficulty due to.. ill-health, disability, mental health iesues, childcaring burdensor the Cost-of-Living Crisis. This is not comprehensive, and we aim to aid any in household need. Soiia1 IsolAtion arid Itnotliin¢il Vvellbeing. We strive to support people experiencing social isolation and mental health issues. This rangesfrom individuals suffering bereavement or poor access to social spaces and networks, to people experiencing long-term mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression. We offer welcoming spaces for these people to build social support networks and friendships, as we51 as more direct l-15UPPOrt for those unable to leave their homes. Comrnuiiity Vuelfare arid Uti eacli We strive to deliver a comprehensive system of community welfare services, that meet the diverse needs of people across Northamptonshire and enhance their daily lives. We aim to improve living spaces, increase access to social gatherings and local spaces. build and develop skills, and support local peoplethrough challenging circumstances and disadvantage. Our broad range of integrated community welfare services strive towards a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. addressing various aspects of daily life, dnd eiirichiiirJ oui" coiiirnuiiity. COMM UNITY 4 j'i• i MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 P4w2o120
Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv Annual Review: Our Services Big Hearts, Big Impact We rely on the big hearts and amazing community spirit of Northampton volunteers, fundraisers and donors. From the bottom of our hearts. thank you for your support. Find out how you can get involved with our amazing charity and let's put care into action. Overview We run a broad range of services, supporting Northamptonshire people on a daily basis and meeting their needs across varying aspects of their lives. A detailed report on each service is provided further in this report. However to summarise, between the Ist of April 2023, and the 31st of March 2024 we ran the following: Food Bank Schools Partnership Program o Breakfast Boxes o Tech4Kids o School Shoes o Seasonal Provision o Household Essential Vouchers Weekly Social Clubs o The Monday Club o Cheers for Tuesdays 0 Stay Well Wednesdays Doorstep Buddies Service Gardening Service Home Improvements l-l Guidance, Advice and Support Cookery Classes Digital Inclusion Services Wider Community Otjtreach MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 P4q•3o120
Our Food Bank Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do We provide regular and emergency food parcels for households facing sudden financial hardship or crisis. Our Food Parcels contain a variety of food items weighing between13-15 kilos total for an average family of four. This includes foods such as pasta, rice, sauces, tinned goods, cereal and other long-life goods and snacks. We also provide personal hygiene items such a5toothbrushes. toothpaste. shower gel. shampoo and conditioner and baby wipes in our food parcels. These packs are then distributed to our network of local organisations, and given to households identified as in critical need of this support. Our food parcels look like an ordinary bag of food shopping and can be given to households at a time most suitable to them. We aim to provide a discreet service, that alleviates any possible anxiety or shame people may feel is associated with receiving food bank support Who We Work With w**t Ilorthampknlhlro ¥nal Nc4th 113 PIOATHAIAPTON5FIIRE Primary. Secondary and Alternate Provislon Councfi Chlldren's Tntst i. NHS GihiERAL PRACTICE ALLIA1cl Iniegr3ted C.!re Northamptonshlrn SCHOOLS We work in collaboration with a broad network of local organisations, services and groups, to distribute our food supplies to people most In need. These organisations are the experts of thelr clients, and direct identify households that will benefit from our support. During this financial period, we worked alongside the above organisations to combat hunger across Northamptonshire. Activity This Year Throughout this period, we continued to seean immense rise in the demand lor this service, with the Cost-Of-Living Crisis being a major contilbuting factor to this increase. MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 Pa9• 40120
Schools Partnership Program Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do Our Schools Partnership Program seeks to build a supportive, collaborative relationship with Northamptonshire schools. offering essential resources to help students and families facing financial hardship. By working closely with schools, we aim to address both immediate and ongoing needs pf their families. Through our services, we hope to alleviate daily challenge5 for families. ensuring that every child ha5 access to food, technology. basic necessities. and a positive learning experience. Food Parcels We provide regular and emergency parcels forfamiliesfacing sudden financial hardship or crisis. These parcels are a vital part of many families. daily lives, and ensure every child and their family is able to eat a fi11ing, healthy meal. Our Food Parcels contain a variety of food items weighing in at between13-15 kilos total. This includes foods such as pasta, rice, sauces, tinned goods, cereal and other snacks. We provide food parcels on a regular basis to ensure children who receive free school meals are able to continue to eat over the school holidays. We also provide emergency parcels for families suddenly facing financial hardship and crisis. We aim to provide a discreet service, that alleviates possible anxiety or shame families may feel is associated with receiving food bank support. Our food parcels look like an ordinary bag of food shopping and can be given to familiesat a time and place they are most comfortable with. Breakfast Boxes We strongly believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life and the support to fulfil their potential. Eating a healthy breakfast before the start of a school day is linked to increased energy throughout the morning, improved concentration and better test scores. a healthier body weight and higher intake of essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The Breakfast Box Project provides schools with monthly supplies of nutritious breakfast item5 such as dried fruit. snack bars, fruitjulcl. These item5 are small enough to be kept in the classroom and discreetly given out by the teachers to those children who missed breakfast at home. Tech 4 Kids Many children may be required to learn from home. due to physical or mental health issues, behavioural concerns or exclusions. There are also many children unable to access online homeworking activities on a regular basis, due to limited technology at home. We distribute laptops. tablets and othertech items to children and familieswho are unable to access home learning technology. MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Schools Partnership Program Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv School Shoe& Stepping Out of Poverty Often. in times of hardship. families cannot afford even the most basic essentials. This means when the new school year rolls around, the pressure to purchase new uniforms for children can be immense forthese families. Our organisation believes every child deserves the dignity and comfort of learning in surf(able footwear, in order to fulfil their full educatiorkal potential. We distribute vouchers through our school partners, for famili* in need to purchase comfortable, high quality and school appropriate school shoes for their children. Our vouchersystem ensures families have both the dignity and choice of purchasing shoes most suited to their child's preferences and needs. Additional Seasonal Prov15ion During festive periods, such as Christmas and Easter, we distribute additional goods to families in difficulty. We provide donations of children'stoys, games, Christmas Turkeys. Easter Eggs. festive sweets and chocolates. At Christmas. we also provide vouchers for toy stores, which parents can use to purchase specif ic items on their child's Christmas Wishlist. These items can make an enomious difference for families facing poverty. Being unable to properly enjoy and engage in cultural events like Christmas or Easter can be detrimental to people's mental wellbeing, creating immense isolation, shame and sadness. For many families facing poverty, during Christmas particularly, it can mean taking out exploitative high-interest holiday loans just to ensure their children can still enjoy the 'Magic' of Father Christmas. This project ensures every family we support can still enjoy the festive seasons, while avoiding further financial difficulty. Holisehold Fsspntials XIoLichers We provide vouchers for supermarkets and other retailers, for families in need to purchase wider home essentials. There are often times when families may experience unexpected or sudden crisis, such as being placed into emergency accommodation with little to no belongings. In other cases, an essential home appliance like an oven may break down, butfamilies may not be financially able to replace it. These vouchers are available for families to access a broad range of essentials, including home appliances, furniture, bedding, clothing, personal hygiene items and food. These allow families, no matter the specific circumstance, to access the exact resources they need, preventing further challenges. Support Through OLir School. Liaison Off icer This program isoverseen by a dedicated member of our team, who works directly with our school partners to ensure the most effective provision of service. Our Schools Liaison Off icer also provides educational sessions to our school partners. to educate children on issues our charitytackles. They also work with staff and students, supporting fundraising activities and empowering them to make positive change in their communities. MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 P49•fjd20
Schools Partnership Program Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv Impact In the last financial year, we have significantly expanded our schools network. As of the 31st of March 2024. we supported 87 Northamptonshire Primary. Secondary and Alternate Provision Schools. Through these schools. we were able to distribute.. 24, 743 294 73 97 Food Parcels Breakfast Boxes to Pairs of Shoes ets 542 $$55 655 703 Children's Toys Christmas Turkeys Easter Eggs What Our School Partners Say 46 "In timesof great need, TMDF have provided help and assistance toour most vulnerable f amilies This help is provided without judgement. Help can be in the form of food, clothing orjust practical advice. The entire team at TMDF work in unison to make a difference and our school's gratitude is huge." Graham Trotter Stirnpson Avenue Academy Deputy Headteacher 66 "We would like to extend our heartFelt thanks to all those involved with the Mccarthy Dixon Foijndation, for their continued help in providing food parcels for families in need at our school. Their kindness and support have made a significant difference on the liv of our children and their families for a number of years. Without their support we would not be in a position to reach as many families in need & we have.. Karen Cumberpatch All SaintsCEVA Primaryschool Deputy Head & Iridus*on Leader 66 "For our famllles who recelve the parcels thls takes away some of the anxlety of how they might cope over the holidays. It also shows compassion from the community, which they are truly grateful for.. Natalie James Whitehills Primary School Headteacher & Designated Safeguarding Lead MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 Ptyo7o120
Weekly Social Clubs Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do We run three weekly social clubs, which aim to reduce social isolation and enhance wellbeing across Northamptonshire by providing safe. welcoming spaces for connection and support. Our clubs offer an inclusive environment where members can form friendships, share experiences, and access services that support both their mental and physical health. Many of our members face challenges such as social isolation and loneliness. physical or mental health conditions, disabilities. or financial hardship - our clubs provide an opportunity for valuable social interaction, wellbeing activities, and practical support. A Club for The vvn,Jle Commun (iub Our Monday Club runs every Monday from12..00 to 4..00 PM atThe Swan and Helmet Pub in Northampton, offering a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect and build friendships. Our members enjoy unlimited hot drinks, a full lunch, dessert, live entertainmentand music, a bingo, a raffle and fun seasonal actwities. The Monday Club is an accessible, light-hearted space for local people to socialise and build networks of friendship. For our members, it provides a vital opportunity to combat social isolation and stay connected with others, ensuring they remain an active part of their community. , Illi,, IIEIR A Club Open to All Local Men Workingwtt GENERAL PRACTICE ALLIANCE ChèersforTuesdays isour men's social club. developed in partnership with Northamptonshire Social Subscribers, who identified the need for a dedicated social space for men in the area. Meeting every Tuesday from 2..00 to 4..00 PM at The Swan and Helmet, this club is a welcoming opportunity for local men to build friendship5 and enjoy activities like cards, darts. and pool, in relaxed and supportive setting. The club aims to create a positive environment for men to connect share experiences, and form supportive networks that are cruclal for mental and emotional wellbeing. Many of our members in this club do face additional challenges, such as long-term physical or mental health conditions, physical or learning disabilities and financial disadvantage. As these men are often more vulnerable, Cheers for Tuesdays is particularly vital to support their wellbeing and continued engagementwith their community and support networks. . r MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Weekly Social Clubs Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv STAY WIL Open to All, With a Focus on Wellbeing Stay Well Wednesdays is our wellbeing-focused club, held every Wednesday from10.'OO AM to I'.00 PM. The club runs accessible keep-fit sessions, including chair versions of every activity. with the goal of helping members get moving in a lighthearted, pressure- free environment. These sessions are particularly benef icial for our older clients. For a £5 entry fee, members also enjoy a hot lunch. unlimited hot drinks, and nourishing activities. We offer fun wellbeing games and activities designed to encourage a positive attitude toward both emotional and physical wellbeinq, with a welcoming space for open conversations about mental health. Additionally, for an extra £6, clients can access affordable professional haircuts and toenail care services. ensuring dignity and access to essential self-care. Impact and Client Testimonials In the last financial year, our three social clubs have welcomed were regular attendees, whojoined L*S at leastonce a month. individuals through our doors. Of these, 66 MONDA ike many of us older ones, many live on our own, and come and make friends here and have a chat and music and sometimes try and dance, and it makes a good day of it When you get older, there's not so many activities we can go to, so I love the clubs every week." (Ivb -Maiy B, The Monday Club Regular Attendees 66 'The Tuesday group has opened up a new world for me and new friends. I do get a lot out of it. You know, you just go along and you can chat. Just to be able to come out. and socialise witri a bunch of guys, it'sjust really, really good.. IIEEB -colin G, Cheers for Tuesdays 66 56 "Without coming to this Tuesday group, I'd be isolating myself at home doing nothing at all. So it's been an absolute God send, ivs helped my mentsl health absolutely no end.. Regular Attendees -colin H. Cheers for Tuesdays 66 STAY14IL "I look forward to these days all week. Before, I felt very isolated. Sadly I lost my wife some years ago and I haven't many friends in town after I retired either. so it can be so lonely. The clubs have given me something to look forward to again, they get you movlng and seeing people, iys great.. - John D, Stay Well Wedne5day5 62 Regular Attendees MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 P49••o120
Doorstep Buddies Service Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do Our Doorstep Buddies program provides regular home visits to socially isolated individuals. Whether a client is home bound due to physical health issues such as injury or chronic illness. or mental health struggle55uch as depression or agoraphobia, orjust going through a challenging time with following bèreavemenL our doorstep buddies are essential. Our volunteers provide a listening ear and companionship. and can support clients with everyday tasks when necessary. Visits can take place inside client's homes, on their doorstep, or out in public- we aim to work around their needs and provsde a service curated to them. Thi8 service functions as a wtal gateway back into the community that our clients may otherwse not access. They are often at extreme risk of total social isolation. often having limited or no family, or friendship networks, and may go a whole week withoutseeing another person otherwise. Our Doorstep Buddies offer essential support for our clients, emotional wellbeing. and ensure no member of the community is leftto struggle alone. Impact and Client Testimonials 66 I had a fall several weeks ago and badly injured my leg and I have been stuck at home since recovering while it heals. It's so frustrating to be inside all day on your own. When Tish comes. it's good to see a different face and just tslk with someone about how I'm getting on. - Kathleen, Northampton Town Centre 66 Because of my health condition51 am not able to leave the house to come to [The Monday Club] anymore, which I was very down about at first. With the visits, I can still get the interaction and conversation, and it's always such a friendly and open chat. I feel if I was evèr worried about anythiniJ I could tell tTish] and she'd comfort me or let me know who to talk to. Tish Cumiskey One of oui I il¢iii L)oorstep Ejuddy Volunteers - Andrew. Kingsley MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 p•rj20
Gardening Service Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do We offer free home and garden renovations to those who wtll benefit most from them, and may not be able to do so themselv*. Whether there are financial barriers, or health issues that may prevent someone from renovating, we will support them in whatever way we can. No matter their circumstance, everyone deserves a comfortable, safe and accessible home and living space. Before and After Before Before Before li After After After Impact and Client Testimonials In the last financial year, we supported 87 households with our gardening service. 66 -1 came to you because I'm suffer wth a long term condition called fibromyalgia. I cannot do the heawy work needed to get my garden clear or looking tidy and I struggle to upkeep the fror)t garden on my own due to any strenuous work I do, I will be in pain for daysafter. Your volunteer came and wasso kind and easy totalk to. He cut down my tree blocking my garden on his first visit to assess the garden. I so impressedl He has since helped me sort my front garden and cleared all the tree debris. I can't thank your charity and your volunteer enough for all you've done for me.- -Harriet, from Kingsthorpe 66 he service was excellent, thank you. Ithas made my garden a nice, safe private placefor my family and we are finally able to use it after so many years with no outside space for the children to play especially. I don't have ajob atthe minute as my time is needed forchildcare as a single mum so we wouldn't afford a service like this usually. It means the world to the kids to play outside for the summer holidays again.. -cheryl, from WellSngborough MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 Pag•lld20
Home Improvements Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do Our Home Renovation Service is available to Northamptonshire residents who have experienced significant life challenges, such as bereavement or ill-health. We also support families who have fled domestic violence and are transitioning from temporary or emergency accommodation into permanent homes. These people often have little or no f urniture, bedding. or personal items. We provide cosmetic improvements like fresh paint, new curtains or simple decorations, as well as furniture and beddirig. We mainly provide this service for living rooms and bedrooms of our clients. This service is designed to ensure those facing signif icant challenges in life have a comfortable, functional space which supportsthem as they move forward. iu Impact for Our Clients In the last financial year, we provided home improvements for149 clients. This ranged from small improvements like providing new bedding or soft furnishings. to larger. complex work like providing furniture for a whole room, or replacing carpets. Case Study: Julie's Bedroom and Living Area Julie lost her late husband in 2022. While dealing with the immense emotional toll and grief, she was also trying to keep on top of her home, which was already in need of some repair before her husband's passing. Julie's income only covered very basc living costs, so on top of significant mental health challenges, there was no opportunity for her to improve her liwng space. This was having severe affects on her mental health,. she told us-. I felt really trapped, crJoped up in so mucli Iness everyday. It was so uncomfortable. I couldn't sleep properly on my bed frame, it was so broken, and the chairs In my15ving room were so tattered. The whole thing just made me miserable but I couldn't do anything. To support her, our organisation redecorated Julie's main bedroom and Iwing area. We provided new furniture in her bedroom, replacing her old bed frame and chest of drawers which were beyond repair. We painted her bedroom and living space, and provided new carpet in her downstairs. We aLso provided her with new curtains and bedding. After receiviiig this service, Julie Said. "It % l-l-lcidt.": chang6r. I wa5 50 bogged down. I feel like I can t)e happy at home now., LJ¥t'l-I d life MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
1-1 Guidance, Advice and Support Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do We provide l-l sessions with our clients. to support them in accessing essential services and support they need. During these sessions, we listen to clients, concerns and assess any additional support they may need, offering a trusted space where they feel understood and valued. Often, they are not aware of the serwces available to them, or have struggled to access them on their own. We refer clients to external services. such as GPS, mental health organisations, or Citizen'5 Advice, to ensure they receive comprehensive care beyond our immediate support. We also help many dients navigate applicatiors for essential services like benefits, council tsx exemptions, and disability aids. These individuals often face low confidence and/or limited digitsl skills. which can become a major barrier for them accessing the resources they need. We work closely wfch clients to identrfy the support they need. assisting them with completing applications, gathering necessary information, and making referrals to relevant services. Impact for Our Clients In the last financial year, we provided1-1 Support Sessions for 88 clients. We supported Graham with a blue badge application. He had applied Unsuccessful twice, as he struggles using the computer ar)d with writing. With our aid, his application was successful and he 15 now able to use acce55ible parking, giving him far more comfort and freedom every day.. 66 hankyou so mLtch forthe help. I have tried lce in fiveyears and never been successful which wasvery frii%trating fnr mg hgcaiiq@ my C)£tg.nArthrttig mgang I c_an't walk Inng di£t3ncgq frnm my c_ar tn plac9.< I r6bly on my car to get me where I need to go for shop ing. appointments and socialising and yJch. Having been tumed down I would not have considered going or it again so I'm very grateful for all your help." - Graham, Northampton Town Centre Wesupported Christinewith ap lications to receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). hristine suffered from a stroke in January 2023, that left her with severe complications and a permanent physical disability. She had to take an indefinite leave from work. However, she was unfamiliar with the Universal Credit system and was really struggling to put in the applications on her own.. 66 -1 had no idea where to start. When I had my stroke, work dd recommend I look into benefits of course, but I'd never done that before, and no one I know closely had either. On top of everything going on with my health, it was such a r)ightmare trying to figure out all the online forms. trMDF] were so helpful, they took me through it all. explained IL helped me write up the applications. and now I have what I need.. Chrlstine. Splnney Hlll MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Cookery Classes Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do Our cookery classes provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds (and cooksng abilities) to develop an understanding of essential cooking skills. empowering them to lead more independent. fulfilling and Sustainable lives. Our classes are open to the whole community, but we prioritise those with little or no cooking ability, who might lack confidence in the kitchen. Many of these individuals have learning disabilities, or have faced ongoing mental health challenges. Often, they come to us through referrals from local social care and welfare organisations, and other timesthey are clients underour own services. Through these free weekly sessions, we focus on building foundational cooking knowledge that participants can expand over time. Starting with basic skills, we introduce essential techniques like knife skills and food hygiene and safety practices. We also cover practical topics like cooking on a budget, sustainability, and making healthy and nutritious Choic within financial constraints. Our sessions highlight simple. adaptable techniques that can elevate any meal, aiming to develop transferable skills that can be applied beyond our lessons. We aim to support our clients to build long-term resilience, helping them in leading healthier, more sustainable and independent lives. They also provide people with immense confidence, giving them the tools to manage their own wellbeing and enjoy the process of cooking. Impact for Our Clients 66 "Before I came here, l just had frozen food or takeaways a lot of the time. l only really knew how to turn tr oven or microwave on or off, and put stuff in it. I'd never really had a chance to learn and it's quite a lot to figure out on your own. I didn't know where to start. These lessons were really helpful. It was easy, and fun and made me realise how easy it is. You just have to get the hang of things- Paul 66 -Growing up I didn't learn stuff like that, and then I fe a bit embarrassed as an adult, admitting you can't cook properly for yourself. But everyone is on the same level here, you're 311 at the same starting point. We just have a good laugh and work things out together, it's a bit like being at school again. But I didn't feel embarrassed saying I didn't understand. because I knew lots of people felt the same.. - Wendy 66 'My diet before was prety unhealthy, lots of snacks or ready meals from the shops. Even just to peel veg. I'd never used a peeler before the clas*s. Now I know the basics and I have lots of ideas. I cook for myself most nights and it's good to feel like I can properly do it, eating healthily. l always thought eating proper dinners like that was more expensive, but actually it was the ready mealsl" Chrlstopher MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 PawHd20
Digital Inclusion Sessions Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv What We Do Our Digital Inclusion Sessions are designed to empower people, many of whom are older adults with limited digital literacy, to confidently and safely navigate technology and the internet. Our priority is to build people's confidence, supporting them to feel more comfortable using technology, and better equipped to handle everyday tasks online without risk. Held alongside our social clubs, these sessions provide hands-on guidance to build essential digital skills, from Setting up and managing social media profiles or sending emails, to online shopping. Participants learn to use platfom)s like Livvi and NHS Online Services. which offer more convenient and practical ways to acce55 thelr healthcare services. We also cover online banking. internet security and common scams that people should always look out for. A lack of digital skills can leave many people vulnerable to scams, data breaches, or unintentionallycompromising their security. These sessions focus on building both practical skills, and awareness on safe online practices. The classes also open up new ways for our clients to connect with friends and family and experience the benefits of social media. which many of them are unaware of prior to the sessions. This has immense benefits in reducing social isolation, something which many of these clients face. Impact for Our Clients 66 °Before the sessions, I had no idea I could do all that Stuff online. l used to depend on my daughter to book my appointments and remind me about prescriptions, which made me feel a bit of a burden. But now, I can log into the NHS app. book my own appointments. and check when my prescriptions are ready. It's nice to finally have some control over something so important in my life, and it's taken a huge weight off my shoulders.. -Bei"iiadette L 66 .1 always heard about Facebook and What5App from my children, but I never wanted to use them myself. I was intimidated, to be honest. Now, after a lessons from [the volunteers], I'm a whizz messaging my family and sharing pictures and seeing what they're up to, even though some of us are miles apart. I've reconnected with a few old friends and evenjoined a group for people from [home town]. Using these apps really helped lift me out of a bit loneliness I was feeling.. A few years ago. something came into my emails. Itsaid it wasfrom my bank and I thought it wasfine, but l ended up losing a lot of money. Luckilythe bank helped me, but I felt embarrassed and vowed tojust never touch my email again. Then mDF'S Team] told me these 5e55ions were on, so I gave it a try and it was great. They teach you what to look out for and now I feel a lot more confident that it won't happen again. I've started using the email again and chat with my family now.. -Tr11ary D. MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Wider Community Outreach Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv Trips and Days Out Alongside our three weekly Social Clubs, we provide several affordable, accessible trips each year, for people to enjoy local and national attractions. These trips ale open to our social clubs members. but also the wider communtty. Whether it'5 a nearby retail outlet like Market Harborough or Rushden Lakes, or a tourist attraction SLtch as national trust sites or museums- many in our community cannot access transport to visit places like this. These trips off er an affordable and specialised opportunity for many people to enjoy their local and wider area, despite challenges they may be facing financially. mentally or physically. MOWPA (Iub STAY WIL ILIR TLJ14pII¥ Community Allotment Our Commuriity Allotment is an ongoing project which we began developing this year. The long-term goal of this space is to provide a welcoming, accessible area for our clients to engagewith their environment, and learn about growing their own produce. We hope to run weekly visits to the allotment for our clients. and will eventually used the produce grown to support our cookery classes. MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Our Volunteers Annual Review | (Jjrsèrv About our Volunteers The work of The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation isonly possible thanks to the dedication and hard work of our incredible volunteers. From corporate volunteer groups to our local, regular. and core volunteer team. each individual plays a vital role in delivering our mission and making a meaningful difference within the Northamptonshirp community. volunte.prs are thp bar.kbone of oiir charity. contrihuting their time. %kill% and compassion across all our services. Our volunteers engage in a wide range of activities. from stocking shelves and packing food parcels to maintaining community gardens, helping others build essential life skills, and supporting our social clubs. We strive to offer volunteer roles that align with each person's skills and experience. creating diverse opportunities for meaningful involvement in our work. Throughout the year, The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation provides essential training to equip and support our voILintgprf, giving gvpryonp the. r.hance to tjrnw and devplop, regardleqq nf their role. Training haq inc.ludpd Safeguarding, Food Hygiene, Manual Handling. and Mental Health First Aid. among others. This training not only strengthens our team but also empowers our volunteers with valuable ski115 and knowledge they can apply throughout their lives. We are committed to nurturing the potential of each volunteer, ensuring that everyone can contribute in ways that are both fulfilling and aligned with their personal goals. We also encourage many of our clients to take on volunteer roles, as this can have profoundly positive impactsfor building their confidence and ties to the local community. Thanks to the outstanding dedication of our volunteers, The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation was honoured to receive the King's Award for Voluntary Service thig year. This prestigious award recognisos the extraordinary impact our volunteers have made within the community and highlights their invaluable contributions in supporting those in need. Our heartfelt thanks go to each and everyvolunteer who supports our charity. Their compassion, commttment, and generosity are at the heart of our charity's success. Without them. the essential work we do across Northamptonshire would not be possible. 4W The IUng'sAward lorvoluntary Servlce MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Financial Review Financlal Review Income Summary During the financial year from1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation was privileged to receive signif icant financial support f rom diverse sources, including one-off donations and ongoing contributions from local businesses and individuals, and grants from both local and national bodies. The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation secured several major grants throughout the year. A significant source of funding was awarded by The National Lottery Community Foundation. specifically from its"Reaching Communities. and 'AII Awards for England" programs. We also received valuable support from West Northamptonshire Council through their Discretionary Community FLtnd and the Warm Welcoming Spaces fund. Further grants were provided by the Northamptonshire Community Foundation, including the Constance Travis Grant and additional support for our Household Support Fund (Tranche 4) Project. Additionally, the Post Code Lottery People's Trust contributed an unrestricted grant through the Millionaire Street Funding Program, and North Northamptonshire Council provided essential funding from their Household Support Fund. The Foundation benefited from other vital contributions. including support from the Food Aid Alliance for West Northamptonshire, local councillors. businesse5, communitygroup5. and indwidual donors. We are especially grateful for the continued monthly contributions from OCM Wealth Management. which ha5 been a steady partner in supporting our mission. Further income was generated through our community awareness and fundraising stalls, as well as our social clubs. Our charity's work is only made possible bythe generous contributions of our supporters. We extend our heartFelt appreciation to everyone who has enabled us to sustain and expand these vital services, allowing us to enhance the lives of those in need, across the Northamptonshire community. Staff & Trustees No employees had employee benefits in excess of £60,000. There is currently a pension scheme in place for Charity employees. None of the trustees received any fees for their services as Trustees. Approval of Accounts The accounts were approved on behalf of the Trustees by the Chair of Trustees on.. Date.'14/11/2024 Signed.. Name.. Stephen Summers 11,* • MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number.1190255 Page18 of 20
The McCarthy- Dixon Foundation Accounts as at 31.03.2024 Financial RevSew knlvlrl•d Funds As •t 31.03.24 Vnr•strf¢lqd Tot•1 Funth Funds As•1 31.QJ.ZQ24 As at Jl.QJ.24 Y•rt•31.0I2023 A• w 31.9>2Q23 Gr•1. R•4thin4 Cornrnunitl• R••thiw Comfftuhit Awardi forAII Ehlknd WIIC. $¢r+I1•rycNbUft1ty Fu•dth¢ WNC. W•rn) W•komin¢ Sp4c•s NCF. Support S•r¥ic• to¢ontmu• thd&t4 HSF4 PKF- Conrtln¢• T¢ws Million•w• StrMI Fundini Pfop•mm• M14C. Ilouh0Id >Jpport Fund oth•r'. FAAWN rion•tKDS Spons¢xshlp IvKoffl•lrrdrn St•lls OCM Ch4rst1•5Tvusl SorSil aub5 Sg,814.26 7.980.74 19,7X.tXJ 11.250. A.499.39 59.114.26 7.980.74 19.750AYI 11.250.(X) L499.19 4,285.72 4.285.72 É 2L967.03 25,th1.IXI 20,Cts). 20.CW.W £ ia,073. 18,277.11 23.750.91 IZ33.L 6,389.62 Al,463.36 23.458.61 .co £ 17,777.11 f 23.750.91 É 1.233.LKJ £ 2,500.CO £ 146.30 7,546.) 1646.90 7,546.00 8.JgOX¢ Total Incam• knpwlad ia9.367.39 f 91,7a9.04 231,106.43 104.509.15 fxFnthtur• 3•l•ri•sA•bouf oitic•IidmIi•n•r1I SoEi•I Clubi Sponsor•d •¥•fits C¢mmunitySupport Food b•DtL V•hi¢l• fxws G•n•r•l •xp•ns•1 P•Dk Chw¥•v 45.373.50 5.?64. £ 6.331.74 £ 45.J73.50 9.049.72 ,515.74 iU.$39.( 3.598. 96,710J7 18.431.64 9.l47.13 9.654.31 6.S95.61 2.958.88 67.043.ty) 1.9Q4.56 6.225.85 33902 5,285.72 E 2,184.W £ 10.539.C¢ t 3.598.CQ 41.027.37 701.cbj £ 98&0) £ 227 Od 55.6BJAI £ 986. 227 Od Totil Exp•ndltyJr• th p•rfod 111.152.24 £ 64.955.13 f 175.Y07.a7 122,300.03 18J15.15 £ 27.183.91 £ 55.399.06 -£17.1.78 •l•n¢• Sht 4t ILQJ.1024 FiM•d Asmtsi •ft•rY•p'nl C¥rr•ntAss•t5-C•sh •lb4nk' kn•bJrti•s. NMAC SA.50 64,456.28 268.Ct) 69.968.78 7.734.(Q 6mS.72 14.589.71 FiMnc•d *. Op•nin8 bol•n SU141$/D•fitrt hr y••r 14,589.72 55.399.C 69,988.78 42,480 50 17.8KI.78 14.589.71 34,IS9.15 MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255
Independent Examiner's Report Financièl Revlew I report on the accounts of Th8 McCarthy-Dixon Foundatlon fortheyear endlng31 M8rch 2024, as set outon page 5. R95P6Qtlve r88ponslbllltles of Tru8t888 and Examlnèr8.' Tho Foundatlon Commtttee are responsible lor the prep8ratlon ofthe account8. The Foundation Commtttèe conslderth818n wJdlt18 not requlred forthls ye8r 8nd that an Independent examiT)8tion 18 ne8(Jed. tt 18 my r8sponslbllltyto: Examln8 the accounts Follow the proc8dures reqIred byihe constltutlon StBte whether partl¢ulgr mAtter8 have com& to my 8ttentlon Bos15 of Independont Examlner8 gtatemgnt My 8x8minatlon was ¢arrlèd out In accordanca wlth the requlrement8 of the constltutlon. An ex8mln8tlon Includes a review of the accounting records kept by the group and a comparison of the accounts presented wlth those records. It also include$ consideration of any unusual items or dlsclosures In the accounts. and seeklnA &xplan8tions from the Committee concernlng such matter8. The procedures undevtsken do not provklo all th8 evidgnce thatwould bé required In an au(Jlt, and con88querrtly, no opinlon is given as to whetherthe accounts presenta true and lairvlew, and tho report Is Ilmlted to those m8tters set out In the st8tement below. Independent Examlner's statement In the course of my ex8mination, no matter has com810 my atterrtlon whl¢h gtves ma r&8son8ble c8u$e to belleve that. in any material respèct: Proper accounting records are not k8pt in a¢cordanc8 wlih the constltutlon, &nd b. The Financial Stetemorrts propar¢d do not agree with the ac¢ounting record8 c. The Flnanclal Statemonts do not comply wlth the 8ccoulliing requlrements ol the constitution. In completing my examinatlon, I have come across no matters that cause concern 8nd no other matters In connectlon with the examlnatlon to whlch attentlon should be drawn In order to E>nabie a propar understanding of the accounts to be reached, Karen N M Chartered Dete ccou tant MCCARTHY-DIXON Registered Charity Number'.1190255 P•9¢2020