CIRCULARITY.ORG ANNUAL REPORT'22
CIRCULARITY.ORG ANNUAL REPORT
1197109
2023
GOVERNANCE & MANAGEMENT
REFERENCE & ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION
Charity Name : - circularity.org
Charity Registration Number: - 1197109
Principal Office: - CircularityHUB, DE11 7JB
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Rob Gillespie (Chair)
Chris Baldwin (Secretary)
Hannah Gillespie (Treasurer)
Keri Lawrence
Katy Lawrence
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2023
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Circularity.org is a charity organisation that aims to foster a culture of collaboration and sharing among people and communities. The trustees of circularity.org are the main decision-makers who set the vision, mission, and values of the organisation. They meet quarterly to discuss the running of the organisation and its four main projects: a community hub, a community managed library, a commercial food vehicle, and an allotment complex.
The trustees are also responsible for ensuring the legal, ethical, and financial aspects of the organisation. The four projects of circularity.org are run by communities of volunteers who believe in the power of collective action and mutual support. These volunteers are organised into different groups based on their roles, responsibilities, and interests. They work on various tasks such as planning, organising, delivering, and evaluating the projects. Some of the projects are steered by one or more trustees who provide leadership, guidance, and feedback to the volunteers.
The trustees also help to connect the volunteers with relevant networks, organisations, and resources. By working together, the trustees and the volunteers of circularity.org aim to change people’s mindsets from ‘Me’ to ‘We’ and create a more sustainable and inclusive society.
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RECRUITMENT & APPOINTMENT OF TRUSTEES
The trustees of circularity.org are responsible for the recruitment and selection of new trustees, as they are the ones who have the authority and accountability for the organisation. They seek to find trustees who are willing to volunteer and help in the overall running of the charity, as well as the governance aspects. The trustees look for candidates who have the following qualities:
A passion for community and sustainability
A commitment to the vision, mission, and values of circularity.org
A willingness to contribute their time, skills, and expertise to the organisation and its projects
A readiness to learn from others and work as part of a team
A respect for diversity and inclusion
A high standard of integrity and professionalism
The trustees use various methods to recruit and select new trustees, such as:
Advertising on their website, social media, and other platforms
Asking for recommendations from existing trustees, volunteers, partners, and stakeholders
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Inviting applications from interested individuals or groups
Conducting interviews and assessments to evaluate the suitability and fit of the candidates
Providing induction and training to the new trustees
The trustees aim to have a balanced and diverse board that reflects the communities they serve and the sectors they work in. They also review their board composition regularly and identify any gaps or needs that they may have. By recruiting and selecting new trustees, the trustees of circularity.org hope to strengthen their organisation and enhance their impact.
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1197109
2023
RISK MANAGEMENT
The trustees of a circularity.org manage risk through the use of a risk register, which is a document that lists the potential risks that the charity faces, their likelihood and impact, and the actions that are taken or planned to mitigate them. The risk register helps the trustees to:
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Identify the major risks that affect the charity’s objectives, activities, assets, reputation, and beneficiaries
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Assess the level of risk and prioritise the most significant ones
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Decide on the appropriate response to each risk, such as avoiding, reducing, transferring, or accepting it
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Assign roles and responsibilities for managing and monitoring each risk
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Review and update the risk register regularly to reflect any changes in the internal or external environment
The Risk Register provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the risks that the charity faces and how they are being addressed using the following elements:
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A description of each risk and its source
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A rating of the likelihood and impact of each risk before any action is taken (gross risk)
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A description of the action that is taken or planned to reduce or eliminate each risk
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A rating of the likelihood and impact of each risk after the action is taken (net risk)
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The name of the person or group who is responsible for managing and monitoring each risk
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The date of the last review and update of each risk
The trustees also consult with their staff, volunteers, partners, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders when identifying and assessing risks, as they may have valuable insights and perspectives. The trustees ensure that the risk register is accessible and communicated to all relevant parties, and that it is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect any changes in the risks or their responses. By using a risk register, the trustees can manage risk effectively and efficiently, and enhance circularity.org's performance and resilience.
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2023
AIMS & OBJECTIVES
GOVERNING DOCUMENT
CIO - FOUNDATION (1197109) Registered 14 Dec 2021
CHARITABLE OBJECTS
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(1) TO ADVANCE THE EDUCATION OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC IN THE AREA DEFINED BY THE NATIONAL FOREST IN PARTICULAR BUT NOT EXCLUSIVELY BY SUPPORTING THE PROVISION OF A LENDING LIBRARY;
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(2) TO FURTHER BENEFIT THE RESIDENTS OF THE NATIONAL FOREST AND NEIGHBOURHOOD, WITHOUT DISTINCTION OF SEX, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, RACE OR OF POLITICAL, RELIGIOUS OR OTHER OPINIONS BY ASSOCIATING TOGETHER THE SAID RESIDENTS AND THE LOCAL AUTHORITIES, VOLUNTARY AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS IN A COMMON EFFORT TO ADVANCE EDUCATION AND TO PROVIDE FACILITIES IN THE INTERESTS OF SOCIAL WELFARE FOR RECREATION LEISURE TIME OCCUPATION WITH THE OBJECTIVE OF IMPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF LIFE FOR THE RESIDENTS.
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VISION
The Circularity.org Vision is about connection to each other, nature and the world around us. It is about creating a world where we are not just consumers, but also contributors. It is about living in harmony with our environment and each other.
MISSION
The mission of Circularity.org is to create a more sustainable and inclusive society by fostering a culture of collaboration and sharing among people and communities. Changing mindsets from ‘Me’ to ‘We’. Circularity is a fulcrum of power, an equitable way of providing power from systems with excess to systems with too little.
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STRATEGY
We provide spaces and places for people to have connecting experiences and for charities and non-profits to provide their services.
• DISCOVER (Discovering Opportunities and Needs)
a. Community Engagement : Conduct community outreach programs to understand the specific needs and challenges of the community.
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b. Volunteer Surveys : Gather insights from volunteers regarding their skills, interests, and areas where they can contribute effectively.
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c. Collaboration : Partner with local organisations, schools, and businesses to identify potential areas for collaboration and resource sharing.
d. Research and Innovation : Encourage volunteers to research innovative solutions to address the identified community needs and challenges.
• CREATE (Implementing Innovative Solutions)
a. Project Teams : Form specialised teams comprising enthusiastic volunteers who are passionate about specific issues or projects.
b. Skill Development : Provide training and workshops to enhance the skills of volunteers in project management, communication, and community engagement.
- c. Prototyping : Encourage volunteers to create prototypes of their proposed solutions and gather feedback from the community for iterative improvements.
d. Sustainable Models : Ensure that projects are designed with long-term sustainability in mind, integrating models that can be replicated or scaled up in the future.
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e. Flexibility : Emphasise the importance of flexibility in project implementation, allowing volunteers to adapt and refine their approaches based on real-time feedback.
• SHARE (Promoting and Scaling Impact)
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a. Storytelling : Encourage volunteers to share success stories, challenges, and impact through various mediums, including social media, newsletters, and local events.
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b. Networking : Facilitate networking events and forums where volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals, organisations, and potential supporters.
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c. Knowledge Sharing : Organise workshops, webinars, and knowledge-sharing sessions to spread successful project methodologies and best practices.
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d. Scaling Opportunities : Explore opportunities to scale successful projects to nearby communities or collaborate with larger organisations to amplify the impact.
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e. Recognition : Recognise and celebrate the contributions of volunteers, partners, and community members to foster a sense of belonging and commitment.
By integrating the 'DiSCOVER', 'CREATE', and 'SHARE' concepts into the charity's growth strategy, it becomes possible to create a sustainable ecosystem that fosters community-driven development and meaningful impact.
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CURRENT PROJECTS & ACTIVITIES
THE HUB
The CircularityHUB is a community managed venue that is run and maintained by volunteers who are passionate about creating a positive social and environmental impact in Woodville and the surrounding areas. The CircularityHUB is a multifunctional space that houses various projects and services that aim to promote circular economy, community wellbeing, and lifelong learning. Some of the projects and services that are based at the CircularityHUB are:
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The Woodville Community Managed Library: A volunteer-run library service that provides access to books, information, and digital resources for the residents of Woodville and the surrounding areas.
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The Wellbeing Wagon: A mobile service that promotes social connection, mental health, and community resilience in Woodville and the surrounding areas.
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The Repair Café: A monthly event where people can bring their broken items and learn how to fix them with the help of volunteers. The Repair Café aims to reduce waste, save money, and share skills. The Repair Café also offers advice on how to reuse, recycle, or upcycle items that cannot be repaired.
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WOODVILLE COMMUNITY MANAGED LIBRARY
Woodville Community Managed Library is a volunteer-run library service that provides access to books, information, and digital resources for the residents of Woodville and the surrounding areas. The library is part of the Derbyshire library network and is supported by Derbyshire County Council. The library is located at The CircularityHUB, 1 Hartshorne Road, DE11 7JB.
The library plays an important role in the small community setting of Woodville, as it offers a welcoming and inclusive space where people can read, learn, socialise, and participate in various activities.
The regular volunteers are empowered to contribute towards the running of the library by being involved in various aspects of the service, such as book selection, shelving, cataloguing, issuing, customer service, activity organisation, promotion, and fundraising. The volunteers receive training and support from Circularity.org and Derbyshire County Council, and have the opportunity to develop their skills, confidence, and employability. The volunteers also have a say in the decision-making process of the library and can share their ideas and feedback with the management team.
The library is open on Mondays (except Bank Holidays), Fridays, and Saturdays. The opening hours are:
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Mondays: 2pm - 7pm
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Fridays: 2pm - 7pm
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Saturdays: 10am - 1pm
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GROW
GROW is a volunteer powered project that aims to promote food security, sustainability, and community wellbeing in Wishnill and the surrounding areas. The project is based at Winshill Allotments where volunteers can grow their own fruit and vegetables, learn new skills, and meet new people.
The food grown by the project is donated to local food banks and other initiatives that help those who are struggling with the cost of living crisis. The project aims to reduce food waste, carbon footprint, and food poverty, while increasing health, happiness, and resilience.
The project welcomes anyone who wants to get involved, whether they have gardening experience or not. The volunteers receive training and support from circularity.org and other partners, and have the opportunity to shape the direction and development of the project. The volunteers also benefit from the therapeutic effects of being outdoors, connecting with nature, and being part of a friendly and supportive community.
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2023
THE WELLBEING WAGON
The Wellbeing Wagon is a mobile service that promotes social connection, mental health, and community resilience in Woodville and the surrounding areas.
The Wellbeing Wagon offers a friendly and welcoming space where people can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a chat, as well as access information, advice, and support on various topics such as wellbeing, employment, education, and volunteering. The Wellbeing Wagon also hosts social eating workshops, activities, and events that aim to inspire creativity, compassion, and collaboration among the community members. The Wellbeing Wagon helps to reduce loneliness, isolation, and stigma, while increasing confidence, happiness, and empowerment.
The Wellbeing Wagon is equipped with catering facilities, a sound system, a projector, a screen, and a generator.
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VOLUNTEERS
The volunteers are a key aspect of success for Circularity.org, as they are the driving force behind its various projects and services that aim to change mindsets from Me to We. The volunteers are involved in every stage of the project cycle, from planning, organising, leading, promoting, to evaluating. The volunteers also contribute their skills, time, energy, and passion to the projects and services, making them more effective, efficient, and engaging.
The volunteers not only benefit the projects and services they are involved in, but also themselves and the community. The volunteers receive training and support from Circularity.org and other partners, and have the opportunity to develop their skills, confidence, and employability. The volunteers also have a say in the decision-making process of the projects and services they are involved in and can share their ideas and feedback with the management team. The volunteers benefit from the social interaction, fun, and satisfaction that come from volunteering. They inspire others to join or support the projects and services they are involved in or create their own initiatives.
The volunteers are therefore a key aspect of success for Circularity.org, as they are the heart and soul of its vision to create a circular economy and community wellbeing hub in Woodville. Without the volunteers, Circularity.org would not be able to achieve its goals or make a positive impact on the environment and society.
Circularity.org is grateful for the volunteers’ dedication and contribution and celebrates their achievements and stories.
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ACCOUNTS
| 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | October | November | December | Total | |||
| September | ||||||||||||||
| Income | 911 | 1775 | 0 | 200 | 1300 | 2564.27 | 0 | 1300 | 2147.31 | 634.52 | 1869.52 | 8751.09 | 21452.71 | |
| Outgoings | 95 | 176.95 | 1039.38 | 1023.24 | 856.98 | 781.49 | 2341.66 | 227.69 | 1967.3 | 894.41 | 1572.98 | 2853.43 | 13830.51 | |
| Balance | 5252.39 | 6850.44 | 5811.06 | 4987.82 | 5430.84 | 7213.62 | 4871.96 | 5944.27 | 6124.28 | 5864.39 | 6160.93 | 12058.59 | ||
| 2021 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | 2022 | ||
| December | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | October | November | December | Total | ||
| September | ||||||||||||||
| Income | 0 | 911 | 1775 | 0 | 200 | 1300 | 2564.27 | 0 | 1300 | 2147.31 | 634.52 | 1869.52 | 8751.09 | 21452.71 |
| Outgoings | 457.81 | 95 | 176.95 | 1039.38 | 1023.24 | 856.98 | 781.49 | 2341.66 | 227.69 | 1967.3 | 894.41 | 1572.98 | 2853.43 | 14288.32 |
| Balance | 4436.39 | 5252.39 | 6850.44 | 5811.06 | 4987.82 | 5430.84 | 7213.62 | 4871.96 | 5944.27 | 6124.28 | 5864.39 | 6160.93 | 12058.59 |
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