2024-09-30-accounts

West Yorkshire Canoe Club CIO Charity number 1198634 Annual Report and Financial Statements for the period 1st October 2023 to 30th September 2024 WCST YORKSHIR CANOC CLUB

Annual Report

It is my privilege to present the Chair's Annual Report for the West Yorkshire Canoe Club, covering the period 1[st] October 2023 to 30[th] September 2024. This report provides an overview of the Club's activities, achievements, and financial standing, reflecting our commitment to promoting and facilitating paddle sports within the West Yorkshire community.

70[th] Anniversary of West Yorkshire Canoe Club

For seventy years, West Yorkshire Canoe Club has been a cornerstone of the local paddling community. From humble beginnings to the vibrant club we see today, we've fostered generations of paddlers, shared countless adventures on our rivers, and built lasting friendships. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our founding members, the tireless efforts of our volunteers, and the enduring passion of our members past and present. As we celebrate this remarkable anniversary, we look forward to continuing the legacy of West Yorkshire Canoe Club, ensuring its continued success for many more years to come.

Objectves and Actvites:

The West Yorkshire Canoe Club operates in accordance with its core charitable objectives:

• To promote and provide facilities for the sport and recreation of paddle sports.

• To ensure inclusivity and equitable access for all, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

In pursuit of these objectives, the Club has undertaken the following key activities:

River Sessions : We have maintained regular river sessions on the River Calder, providing consistent opportunities for members to engage in paddling activities.

River trips: For those members competent in a moving water environment, the club has organised some excellent sessions, notably on the River Wharf, River Tees and River Lune.

Of-Site Excursions : Expanding our reach, we have successfully organised trips to Ladybower Reservoir and Slenningford Watermill, offering diverse paddling experiences in varied environments.

Skills Development and Training : Recognising the importance of continuous improvement, we have facilitated training sessions at Sowerby Bridge and Tees Barrage, focusing on white water kayaking skills. These sessions aim to enhance member proficiency and encourage participation in this specialised discipline.

Inclusivity and Equality : The Club remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. All activities and programmes are conducted in adherence to our equality policy, ensuring that every individual feels welcome and valued.

Achievements and Performance

Despite encountering a period of uncertainty in the previous year, the Club has achieved a significant milestone in establishing a stable foundation for its future. This stability has enabled us to:

Secure Short-Term Stability : This crucial achievement provides a platform for the Club to strategically regroup, rebuild, and strengthen its operational framework.

Maintain Membership Revenue : We are pleased to report that membership revenue has been successfully maintained, demonstrating the continued value and relevance of the Club to its members.

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Governance

The Club operates under a robust governance structure, with the trustees ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and best practices. We remain committed to maintaining transparency and accountability in all our governance activities.

Future Strategic Development

Building upon the solid foundation established this year, West Yorkshire Canoe Club is committed to a program of strategic development and expansion. Our future plans are designed to enhance accessibility, broaden our reach, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Club.

Some key objectives we seek next year:

Reinstatng Indoor Pool Training Sessions:

We recognise the vital role indoor pool sessions play in developing fundamental paddling skills, particularly during the winter months. We are actively exploring options to reinstate these sessions, focusing on securing suitable facilities and developing structured training programs that cater to all skill levels. This initiative will provide a safe and controlled environment for beginners to learn essential techniques and for experienced paddlers to refine their skills.

Expanding Craf Inclusivity:

To broaden our appeal and cater to a wider range of interests, we will actively promote craft inclusivity within our activities. This will involve:

• Increasing the frequency and variety of stand-up paddleboard (SUP) trips, offering scenic and accessible experiences on local waterways.

• Organising more flatwater trips on reservoirs and canals, providing relaxed and enjoyable paddling opportunities for all ages and abilities.

• Maintaining our commitment to white water kayaking while ensuring a balanced program that caters to diverse paddling preferences.

Investng in Coach Development:

Our coaches are the cornerstone of our Club. We will invest significantly in their ongoing training and development, ensuring they possess the latest skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality coaching. This will include:

• Providing access to advanced coaching courses and workshops.

• Implementing a mentorship program to support newer coaches in their development.

• Actively encouraging experienced members to undertake coaching qualifications and supporting them through the process.

• Ensuring our coaches are up to date with safeguarding and first aid requirements.

- Securing a Permanent Locaton and Developing a Long Term Strategic Plan:

A key strategic priority is to secure a permanent location for the Club, addressing the need for a suitable replacement for our previous location. This will provide a stable base for our activities, enabling us to:

• Develop dedicated training facilities and equipment storage.

• Create a welcoming and accessible hub for members.

• Facilitate long-term planning and investment in the Club's future.

Alongside this, we will develop a comprehensive long-term strategic plan, outlining our vision, goals, and strategies for sustainable growth and development. This plan will address key areas such as membership growth, financial sustainability, and community engagement.

Expanding Training Programs:

We will expand our training programs to cater to a wider range of skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced paddlers. This will involve:

• Developing structured training pathways for different disciplines and skill levels.

• Offering specialised training courses in areas such as river safety, navigation, and rescue techniques.

• Creating programs for youth development, encouraging the next generation of paddlers, through outreach to Scout groups and youth organisations.

Increasing Community Outreach:

We are committed to increasing our community outreach, promoting paddle sports to a broader audience and fostering a love of paddling within the local community. This will involve:

• Organising taster sessions and introductory courses for schools and community groups.

• Participating in local events and festivals to raise awareness of the Club.

• Developing partnerships with other community organisations to promote paddle sports as a healthy and accessible activity.

• Better utilisation of social media and our website to promote our activities and engage with the wider community.

By pursuing these strategic initiatives, the West Yorkshire Canoe Club aims to enhance its impact, broaden its reach, and ensure its long-term sustainability as a vibrant and inclusive community organisation.

Financial Review:

A detailed financial report, including the Statement of Financial Activities and Balance Sheet, is provided separately. Overall, the Club's financial position remains sound, allowing us to continue fulfilling our charitable objectives.

See Appendix 1

Conclusion

In conclusion, this year has presented both challenges and successes for West Yorkshire Canoe Club. We've navigated the impact of relocating venues twice, while celebrating increased participation with members through sessions and events. The dedication of our paddlers, the enthusiasm of our members, and the supportive spirit within the club have been instrumental in our progress. Looking forward, we remain committed to expanding the club offering, key goal for the future, e.g., expanding our junior program, enhancing safety protocols, fostering community engagement]. With continued collaborative effort, West Yorkshire Canoe Club will continue to thrive and provide a vibrant paddling community for all.

With Thanks on behalf of the Trustees and Committee

Ben Abrams Chair, West Yorkshire Canoe Club

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Appendix I Receipts & Payments List by Cost Code W￿1 Cano• Ckl> 014>CT-2023- 3￿sE￿2024 An￿lln1 Anx)unt AnKiunt 4(KKI REVENUFS 1265.50 41K12 River Cakler s￿S1ons {Horbury) 4￿3 River SessM)ns (Mi8c) 41K14 Mi%¢ Pwldling SusM)ns 42(KI INVESTMENT INCOME 953.50 212.IXI 3.57 4203 Rebate from Cwd TranwtM)rL4 3.57 5(KKI MEMBERSHIP PAYMENTS .124.85 51XII Individual 592.lxi 5(KTr2 Membersknp 532.85 2A9332 71XM) COST OF SALES -538.44 71￿4 Ev￿t ￿P￿se5 711J) EQUtPMENT PURCHASE & REPAIR 7101 Purch&se New -538.44 48.60 721M) OVERHFADS 4.475.87 7205 Repair & Maintaiance 7208 Audrt Fees -3292.99 .51M.IM) 7213 Telephone Costs 7215 Website Hosltng 7217 Aca)Untinp￿lllb Treasurer Software 7218 Briliih Canoein8 AffdiatM)n 7223 Payment ProvKler Fi*S 49.88 -72.lxi 455.20 41.80 4￿62.91 .1668.99

Statement of Assets & Liabilities Report West Yorkshlre Canoe Club Perkxl Endlw 304EP-2024 Pff￿r Yr P￿r Yr SloiotnA4-LOUOt 27.971.35.: Bank A<L"ouni 24222_1fj': Sknpe 263S5i JthL P#yP 27.371.35:. UPAUmE8 IkneThl Fund 24.702_10': Lo￿.Te￿I U•aUIIES