CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Trustees, Annual Report for the period From: To: Period start date 01.05 2023 Period end date 31.03.2024 Charity name: Sapphire Partnership Charity registration number: 1198889 Objectives and Activities SORP reference Summary ofthe purposes of the Gharity as set out in its goveming document Para 1.17 To promote social inclusion for the public benefit among pèople with additional needs I'see definition below) between the age of 18 to 40 who are socially excluded from society or parts of society as a result of their additional needs by.. Encouraging independence and building social skills and self- developmenl Facilitating a saf8 fonjm for family members of young adults with additional needs to use their personal experiences to share and offer opportunities to leam and develop. Promoting a holistic approach to support young adults with additional needs and their families "Definition: "Additional Needs. relates to any young adult with developmental, physical, learning, behavioural or sensory challenges who can have their needs easily met as they work towards their independen￿. Surnmary of the main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. Para 1.17 and 1.19 The Servi￿ on offer at Sapphire Partnership provides sUPPOrt to young adults aged 1840 with neuro diverse needs and disabilities within the Greater Manchester area, giving priority to those living in the Bolton borough. Sapphire provides an 'adult' environment for oun eo le who reall want to develop or increase their confidence and ability to live independently. We enable them to take responsibility for their own lives. recognise Ihe choices they can make, support the decisions they choose, build resilience, incorporate healthy lifestyle choices, and increase their emotional intelligence by introducing mindfulness strategies. By providing an environment where they feel a sense of belonging and by Grealing an atmosphere where they Gan talk and feel they are listened to reduces some of the anxiety and isolation they feel. By applying a consistent approach, we provide routine and clear structure to the day. Attending Sapphire provides them with routine, familiarity, security, and friendships. We provide the following activities to facilitate a range of interventions'.- Taster sessions in various life skills activities e.g., cooking, cleaning, washing and the importance of personal hygiene. We also include basic budgeting skills when accessing Community based activities such as a shopping to buy food, clothes, paying bills. accessing local dentist, doctors, social and leisure facilities. Creative and experiential a￿1VItY sessions provide a platform to develop teamwork, problem solving, decision making, onfidence and communication skills. Discreet time to ensure the individuals using the Servi￿ can reflect on their personal progress or identify future needs and support them to be more reflective on their personal journey. Participating in events that support their understanding of fundraising, enabling them to plan, make decisions and develop organisational skills. Taking part in community-based activities including volunteering, to foster their independence and value the contribution they can make lo local communities and the wider society. Taking part in a range of visits to experien￿ various environments. cultures and meet new people, thereby increase the development of their life skills, personal initiative, and confidence. Opportunity to take part in residential experien￿$ that create a sense of belonging and develop personal and social skills in unique and unfamiliar settings that promote citizenship We also promote the opportunity for parents to come together to support each other Statemenl confimiing whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit Para 1.18 The trustees have regard to the Charity Commission guidance and are clear that Sapphire Partnership is beneficial to a suffiGiently wide section of the public and is not run for any particular personal benefft or gain. The trustees confimi they refer to the direction contained in the general guidance on Public Benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives. They are mindful of the core purposes of the Gharity, which is reflected in all of the decision- making processes, policies, practices, and procedures undertaken by Sapphire Partnership. These pro￿SSeS are reviewed annuall Additional infomiation (optional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about: SORP referenr Not applicable Para 1.38 Poli¢y on grant making Sapphire Partnership does not make any grants Not applicable Para 1.38 Policy on social investment including program related investment Sapphire Partnership does not make any social investments Sapphire Partnership recognises that volunteers can play a vital role within our organisation and that their contribution supports the delivery of the Servi￿$. They are encouraged to share their views and they have the opportunity to Vol￿ their opinions on their experience of volunteering with us. We recognise and value their feedback and ensure that their contributions are fed into the continued development of the organisation. We have ensured that there are good working relationships be￿een paid staff and all volunteers, and that the volunteers are well supported. They receive a full induction and undertake minimum essential core training as part of the job role .More specific development training opportunities are identified through supervision and as part ofthe performance management framework All volunteers are bound by the same requirements for Data privacy and onfidentiality as the paid staff at Sapphire Partnershi Para 1.38 ContribLrtion made by volunteers Volunteers have a named supervisor as a point of contact who provides the on-Ihe- job training and support. We have provided clear pathway for volunteers to move into paid employment when they feel ready to make that ro ression. Not applicable Other Achievements and Performance SORP reference During second year of operaling as a as a CIO we have a number of successes.. Summary ofthe main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity's work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. Para 1.20 - We have recorded evidence through robust governance arrangements and a strong board of Trustees that we have made significant progress. continLted to build up the nurnber of young adults who benefit from attending the serviGe. Developed a programme of varied experiences that encourages and enables the young adults to express themselves in a positive way by testing out their life skills and learn from that experience. Utilised the impact measuring tool that was introduced during our initial year as a CIO, as evidence of impad when reporting back to funders and supporting future development. Developed strong partnerships with range of professionals and agencies that we utilise to influence change and ensure we are making progress to promote the voices of young adults with neuro diverse needs and disabilities.. Delivered a successful campaign week in June 23, called 'Don't Dis my Ability, that supported a positive change in narrative that is not usually associated with this vulnerable group. Raised the profile of Sapphire to achieve our purpose. Brought in additional funds via the charity to provide enrichment opportunities. Increased the team of dedicated staff and volunteers. Additional infonnation (optionall You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about: The main achievements for this year are= Achievements against objectives set Para 1.41 In November 2023 we gained the Bolton Mark certificate in recognition of the compliance we demonstrated against a robust set of standards. We were also awarded a Bolton Volunteer Charter certfficate for achieving our volunteer development set against a set of principles. We also have the Living Wagè Foundation Recognised Servlcè Provider mark. We have established strong relationships with and Seddons Construction who are partnering up with us under their Social Value pledge to local Charitable organisalions 27 young adults took part in the programme through the year which equates to 55 paid places a week. 4 are due to start 3 staff have part time permanent contracts with Sapphire Partnership 1 volunteer has joined the team 12 young adults have made progress on improving their communication 11 have shown significant movement towards their independence 2 have visibly demonstrated more confiden￿. 1 young person has made significant progress moving towards the possibility of supported living and has just recently started a volunteering opportunty. 6 young adults are involved in volunteertng. We continually seek to secure additional funds via bidding for extemal grants, and we have increased the extemal income for Ihe charity. We have met with a representative from the National Lottery and discussed the potential for a Reaching Communities bid, which looks favourable when we are at the right stage for expansion. Other suc￿SseS have seen us raise funds through Bolton's Fund, CVS, GP Fed, Asda. We have also received donations from local charities and businesses. We remain focused on the involvement of the young adults to identify fundraising ideas so they can contribute to the overall effectiveness of the charity and develop a range of skills associated with these activsties. Perfornian￿ offundraising activities against objectives set Para 1.41 Sapphire Partnership does not make any inveslments. Investment perfoman against objectives Para 1.41 other Not applicable Financial Review Review of the charity's financial position at the end of the period Para 1.21 The trustees are presented with the financial position at every meeting and the hair of trustees has overall oversight of the budget. They meet regularly with the CEO lo provide strategic direction, scrutiny, and quality assurance for the budget and spend against budget. Sapphire Partnership is continuing to show growth and has remained affordable for the young adults to be able to attend a provision that is continuing lo develop the independent life skills needed to make the transition into adulthood. Slatement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held Para 1.22 We have a healthy reseNe pot of funding which is slowly building up. There is enough reserve funds to cover a month core expenditure cost. Our target is to increase this to be in position to mitigate a 2-month potential financial risk period. We have a reserves policy in place. Amount of reserves held Para 1.22 Total reserves in bank account stands at £20,945.00 N.B. This figure includes the donations from eas fundraisin and Just ivin Not Applicable Reasons for holding zero reserves Details of fund materially in deficit Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity Continuing as a going concern Para 1.22 Para 1.24 Not Applicable Para 1.23 Not Applicable Additional information (optional) You ma choose lo include further statements where relevant about.. Income from daily costs to the individual whiGh is usually funded through their Personal Budget or Direct payment agreed throu h a social care assessment. Para 1.47 The charity's principal sources of funds {including any fundraising} Donations and Fundraising Grants awarded Investment policy and objeGtives including any social investment policy adopted Not Applicable Paro 1.46 The charity has developed a robust risk register of potential challenges that could negatively impact on the charity. It addresses whal we have already in pla to mitigate the risks and identifies opportunities to control the risks. There are clear roles of responsibility, and the register is discussed and monitored by the board of trustees at every board meeting. A description of the principal risks facing the charity Para 1.46 Other Not applicable Structure, Governance and Management Description of charity's trusts.. Type of governing document Para 1.25 CIO Constitution How is the charity onstituted? Para 1.25 cio Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees Para 1.25 We have used our social media plafforms to promote the opportunity to be part ofthe Sapphire Partnership Board of Trustees and invited individuals who associate with our vision to apply. individuals are invited in to visit and to meet the young adulls and staff before they make a fomal application Applications are presented to the board for onsideration and agreed or rejected based on the suitability of their contribution to the aims and objectives of the charity. An enhanced DBS check is carried OLrt. Additional infomiation loptional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about.. We use the infomiation provided by the Charities Commission in the welcome pack for trustees as the basis of an induction pack that explains the Terms of Reference for the role. Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and trainin of trustees Para 1.51 All trustees are required to have read the Sapphire Partnership Policies and procedures. These are reviewed annually and ratified at quarterly trustee meetings. We are members ofthe local VCSE organisation who provide relevant training opportunities and regular bulletin updates from the Charities Commission To strengthen the accountability and responsibility within the organisation the Board of Trustees recommended that the structure become more streamlined by realing the CEO post. The CEO has been delegated the day-tOThday responsibility for the leadership and management ofthe charity. The main responsibilities of this post are to work closely with the Board of Trustees and the leadership team to develop and strengthen the strategic development oflh8 charty as outlined in the business plan. It also requires the individual to establish and maintain appropriate partnerships with other relevant agencies within the statutory, voluntary, and business sectors, to ensure a co- ordinated holistic approach to the delivery of se¢vices delivered at Sapphire Partnership. Th8 charity's organisational structure and any wider network with which the harity works Par# 1.51 The 2 posts reporting to the CEO are the Admin and Finance Officer and the Prograrnme Manager. Support Mentors, specialists, and Volunteers report to the Programm8 Manager. All posts are aligned to a Performance Management framework. The benchmark for salaries was agreed and is aligned with similar sized organisations. Future pay awards will be linked to targets set at annual Performance Management reviews. As a CIO, this process is open to scrutiny and accountability by the effective oversight of the Board of Trustees through regular meetings and onsite visits. Not applicable Relationship with any related parties Par8 1.51 Not applicable Other Reference and Administrative details Charit name Other name the Charit uses istered charit number Charity's principal address hire Partnershi 1198889 St George's House, 2, St George's Road Bolton BL12DD Names of thè charity trustees who manage the charity Dates acted if not forwhol• èar Trustee name Office Ilf any} Name of person lor body) an￿lled toa oint tru¥tse If•n Paul Hodgkinson Lynda Williams Charlolte Woodcock Gareth Oliver Lynsay Gemmell Chair Vice Chair Whole year Whole year Part Year. Finished her role on the 20102124 Whole Year Whole Year 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Cor orate trusl88s - names of the directors at the date the re Director name Sapphir6 partnership does not have an Directors ortwasa roved Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity Tru¥tse name Sapphire Partnership does not have an ro Datss acted If not for whole fr8r Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others Description of the assets Not applicable held in this capacity Name and objects ofthe charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity's objects Not applicable Details of arrangements for safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity's own assets Not applicable Additional infomiation {optional} Names and addresses of advisers (Optional inforniation) Type of Name Address adviser Not applicable Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional infomiation) Exemptions from disclosure Reason for non-disclosurè of ke rsonnel details Not applicable Other o tional information This financial year covers the Period start date of 01.05 2023 to Period end date 31.03.2024 as agreed with the Charity Commission. The nexl financial year will then align with the traditional dates of 01.04.24 to 31.03.25 Declarations The trustaes declare that thay have approvèd tho trustees, report above. Signed on behalf of the charlty's trustees Signatur815) Full namèls) Position (eg Se¢retary, Chair, etc) Paul Hodgkin50n Chair Date 4th September 2024 CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND ANO WALES Sapphire Partnership 1198889 Receipts and payments accounts 01.05.23 CC16a Forthe period frt>m 31.03.2024 Section A Receipts ancl payments Unrestricted fvnd$ to the nearest Restrfcted fund8 Endowment fund5 Last year 101.05.22. 30.04.23) to the nearest Total funds to thè near8St £ to the neartst £ to the nea￿t£ A1 Recei Servi￿ ¢har Donations Grants Una lied Cash Pa ment Invoir Uncate orised Income 141 100 400 117 14 975 14 ross incom8 $58 an see tsblè . nla Investmen e$. £<££ A3Pa ments Rent Service Cha Ac¢oJntan Fees Staff Costs Activi ecialist F88'S Communi Activities Enrichment Activiti Insurance Kitchen Su Markeiin Tele hofte Mobile & Internet Resources Stsff Trainin Statione Sofiware Printin Posts Sund en5es Travel & Subs Volunteer Ex ns88 Re airs & Maintenan iene & Personal Care ment Ex n58d 8 & Utilitk?5 17,728 19,604 724 1.098 104.686 6,764 119 4A8S 722 65 100.490 449 20 1.000 722 65 351 919 877 832 176 4,196 6.315 99 5.555 224 728 265 704 929 Ivd5 1.216 919 1,063 906 176 1,637 571 187 74 724 248 571 635 23 299 742 536 2.314 83 53 83 53 213 15 1,493 1,423 1,709 3.132 Sub total A4 Assetand Invesbngnt nla Sub totsl Not of receip￿pa￿entsJ AS TTansf8rs betr￿en funfl8 A6 Cash funds last year end Cash funds thi5 yearend Section B Ststement ol assets and liabilities at the end ol the period CCXX R1 aeLounls ISSI 0610812024 Unrostrlcted funds Rostrlctsd funds Endowment funds Categoiies Details 81 Cash fundB Bank AcGount 1 IRe5erv85 & Fundrak%in Bank Account 2 20,946 21,706 29,307 Petty Cash Total cash funds 18gr88 D8ianc85 WITll r8ceipTs ana payments account(811 42,809 29,307 Unmtrlcl fund8 to nearnst£ R¢8trlctsd fund8 to ngarost £ Endowment fund8 to nearest £ Dotails nla B2 Other mon•tsry omots Fund to which 2888t belong• Co8t loptlonall Curront valu• loptlonall Details nla Fund to whl¢h asset belongs Curr•ntvalu• loptionall Details Co8t lopWonall B4 Assets r•talned for th• ¢h•rity'8 own u•• L8Ptop x 5 Dining Room Table & Chairs Fridge x2 Freezer 2,499 2,167 200 2,374 1,947 130 124 Oven 258 233 Microwav6 x2 160 162 Storage Cupboard T81evi5ion 130 300 271 Game Con601e 299 284 Washin9 Machine Dryer Wheelchair 165 149 187 169 332 315 Sol 1,969 1,969 Fund tg whlch Amount du• Wh¢n du• Oetatls HMRC B6 Liabilitt8* 1,566 181 Nest P8nsions Independent Examination Fee 725 Skjned by ono Dr two trustsas on b9haif of all the Irusleas D8t8 01 Signature Print Name 4.9.t CCXX R2 accounts Issi 0610812024 ## **Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Sapphire Partnership (‘the Charity’)** I report to the Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2024. ## **Responsibilities and basis of report** As the charity trustees of the Charity 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 Charity’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 Charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or 2. The accounts do not accord with those records. 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. ## **Teresa Fennell, ACMA** **It Doesn’t Have to Cost the Earth Ltd** 47 St Dunstans Close, Worcester, WR5 2AJ Date: 11th September 2024