## **Young Minders** The BAME Home Education Hub Annual Report and Summary of Accounts 31st October 2025 Registered Company Number: **CE034648** Registered Charity Number: **1206233** **Contents** - 3 Foreword - 4 About us - 5 Our Vision, Mission and Goals - 6 Young Minders in Action - 7 Public Benefit - 8 Key Achievements and Activities 2024/2025 11 Charitable Activities - 13 Structure, Governance and Management - 14 Key Risks and Mitigation - 16 Financial Summary 2024 - 2025 - 18 Income Analysis - 19 Expenditure Analysis - 20 Closing Financial Summary - 21 Independent Examiner’s Report - 23 Annual Accounts - 24 Balance Sheet - 25 Young Minders in Action - 26 Future Plan - 28 Letter to Supporters and Stakeholders ## **FOREWORD** The Trustees present this report for the year ended 2024/25 and confirm that they have complied with their duties under Section 162 of the Charities Act 2011 in preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report. 2024/25 was a year of growth and consolidation for Young Minders – The Home Education Hub. The charity continued to advance its charitable objectives by supporting home-educated children, young people, and families through inclusive educational, physical activity, and wellbeing programmes that respond to identified community needs. During the year, Young Minders expanded its programme offer through established STEAM and CREST-aligned learning activities, an enhanced rugby programme, and the launch of the new Roots to Growth sessions. Together, these initiatives provided opportunities for learning, physical wellbeing, personal development, and social connection. Rugby continued to play an important role in building confidence, resilience, teamwork, and emotional wellbeing, while Roots to Growth successfully combined practical learning with wellbeing-focused activities in a structured and engaging environment. The Trustees recognised increasing demand for holistic provision that supports both education and wellbeing. In response, the charity delivered a growing number of accessible community-based sessions and events, with particular attention to supporting families from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds. Growth was managed carefully, with appropriate focus on safeguarding, health and safety, and organisational capacity. During the year, the Trustees approved and began implementing a five-year strategic plan to guide the charity’s future development. Alongside programme delivery, investment was made in governance, fundraising capability, and partnership development, strengthening the organisation's foundations and supporting long-term sustainability. Early progress was also made in developing corporate partnerships and aligning activities with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. The Trustees are grateful for the dedication and professionalism of the charity’s volunteers, whose contribution remains essential to its success. Throughout the year, Young Minders remained responsive to the evolving needs of families while maintaining a strong focus on quality, public benefit, and impact. The Trustees believe that the progress made during 2024/25 provides a strong platform for the charity’s next phase of development. With a clear strategic direction, strengthened governance, and growing evidence of impact across education, wellbeing, and physical activity, Young Minders is well placed to continue helping children and families thrive. On behalf of the Trustees, we thank all those who have supported Young Minders during the year. ***Education Has No Boundaries*** Elizabeth Njenga Lydia Wanini **Chair of Trustees Chief Executive** 3 ## **ABOUT US** Young Minders – The Home Education Hub is a community-led charity supporting home-educated children, young people, and their families. The charity aims to reduce barriers to education, wellbeing, and enrichment opportunities, particularly for families from underrepresented and lowincome backgrounds. Through a range of inclusive programmes, Young Minders combines STEAM learning, physical activity, and wellbeing support. Activities include CREST-aligned science sessions, community events, and rugby provision that promotes confidence, resilience, teamwork, and positive physical and mental wellbeing. Young Minders Crest Awards Session Taking a holistic, family-centred approach, the charity provides safe and supportive environments where children and young people can learn, develop life skills, and build positive relationships beyond formal education settings. Working closely with families, volunteers, and local partners, Young Minders ensures its services remain accessible, responsive, and rooted in community need. Young Minders Try Rugby Sport Session 4 **OUR VISION, MISSION AND GOALS** ## **Vision** A future where home-educated children and young people are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally through inclusive opportunities that promote wellbeing, confidence, lifelong learning, and positive community engagement. ## **Mission** Young Minders – The Home Education Hub supports home-educated children, young people, and their families through accessible, community-led programmes that combine education, physical activity, and wellbeing. Guided by a five-year strategic plan, we deliver STEAM learning, rugby and physical activity programmes, and holistic family support that respond to local need and reduce barriers for underrepresented and low-income families. Our work is underpinned by strong Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring we operate responsibly, inclusively, and sustainably. We are committed to building trusted partnerships, strengthening governance, and measuring our impact to ensure Young Minders continues to grow in a way that is ethical, accountable, and centred on the needs of children, young people, and families. ## **Goals** **Educational Achievement and Mental Wellbeing** - Equip homeeducated children and young people, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with the knowledge, skills, confidence, and emotional resilience needed to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. **Community Building** - Foster meaningful connections between young people, families, volunteers, and local organisations to reduce isolation and create strong, supportive communities. **Inclusion and Accessibility** - Ensure all programmes are welcoming, accessible, and responsive to diverse needs and abilities, with a particular focus on removing barriers faced by children and young people with SEND and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. **Family Support** - Provide resources, guidance, and practical support to families, particularly those caring for children and young people with SEND, helping them navigate the challenges of home education and access appropriate opportunities. **Nature-Based Learning** - Use outdoor and nature-based learning experiences to enhance education, support mental wellbeing, encourage personal growth, and develop environmental awareness. Mind and Mocktails outdoor workshop funded by The Asda Foundation 5 YOUNG MINDERS IN ACTION t1￿,. I &p IirtL 4¢1..,, l ffesef tli •S. %Ci¢rfiCe' YJ. '￿￿mir￿er5 EdLuitsIIi ## **PUBLIC BENEFIT** The charity's programmes are designed to address barriers faced by vulnerable and underrepresented groups, including low-income families and those with additional needs. The Trustees have had due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit when planning and delivering the charity's activities. In line with its charitable objectives, Young Minders supports homeeducated children and young people, particularly those with autism and other Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), through a range of educational, recreational, and wellbeing-focused programmes. By providing accessible opportunities for education, personal development, and community participation, Young Minders advances public benefit through improved wellbeing, increased social connection, and enhanced learning outcomes for the children, young people, and families it serves. Activities include STEAM learning, sports and physical activity, creative workshops, mentoring, and community-based events designed to promote learning, confidence, resilience, social inclusion, and positive mental and physical wellbeing. _Fostering Mental well-being_ **----- Start of picture text -----**
Responsibility
Quality of Life
**----- End of picture text -----**
_Youth Empowerment_ **----- Start of picture text -----**
Inclusion
**----- End of picture text -----**
_Education Advancement_ 7 ## **KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES 2024/2025** ## **Education and Learning** Young Minders continued to deliver CREST-aligned STEAM activities, providing children and young people with practical opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through hands-on learning. Sessions focused on developing curiosity, problem-solving skills, confidence, and creativity while remaining accessible to families from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds. Donated laptops enabled participants undertaking CREST awards to access digital learning tools and complete activities electronically, improving accessibility and engagement. Young people also participated in a group visit to Science Live, where they engaged with leading scientists and interactive demonstrations that deepened their interest in STEM subjects. ## **Physical Activity, Wellbeing and Personal Development** The charity expanded its rugby provision, supporting physical wellbeing, social development, and emotional resilience. Sessions encouraged teamwork, confidence, discipline, routine, and positive participation in structured activities. Young Minders also delivered Mind & Mocktails, a wellbeing-focused initiative that provided a safe and supportive environment for young people to discuss mental health, build social connections, and develop emotional resilience. , 8 ## **KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES 2024/2025** During the year, the charity launched the Roots to Growth programme, combining practical skills, experiential learning, and personal development opportunities. The programme successfully engaged participants and supported increased confidence, resilience, and social connection. Families also took part in sustainability-focused activities that promoted environmental awareness and practical learning. These initiatives supported the charity's wider commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. ## **SEND and Inclusive Provision** The charity continued to develop inclusive provision for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Through partnership working and tailored activities, families were able to connect, share experiences celebrate achievements, and access opportunities designed to meet a wide range of needs and abilities. ## **Community Engagement and Family Support** Young Minders strengthened relationships with families, volunteers, local organisations, and community partners throughout the year. Educational visits, cultural experiences, and community events provided opportunities for shared learning, relationship-building, and increased participation. The organisation continued to engage with civic leaders, local networks, and sector forums to raise awareness of home education and advocate for the value of child-led and experiential learning approaches. ## **Youth Voice and Participation** Young Minders strengthened the involvement of young people in shaping its future direction. Recruitment commenced for a Youth Advisory Team, and a youth voice group was established to provide feedback on activities and contribute ideas for future programme development. These initiatives supported leadership skills, confidence, and meaningful participation in decision-making. 9 ## **KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES 2024/2025** ## **Partnerships and Organisational Development** During the year, Trustees approved and began implementing a five-year strategic plan that provides a framework for sustainable growth, partnership development, impact measurement, and effective governance. The strategy is underpinned by Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and informs the charity's operational and strategic decision-making. The charity further strengthened its governance by welcoming parents from the home-educating community onto the Board of Trustees, bringing valuable lived experience and insight to organisational leadership. Young Minders also continued to develop strategic partnerships, including engagement with the Croydon Mayor and organisations with shared objectives, helping to expand opportunities and resources available to children, young people, and families. Comic Relief funding supported the delivery of inclusive, high-impact programmes throughout the year, contributing to the charity's resilience and long-term sustainability. ## **Staff and Volunteers** The charity continued to benefit from a dedicated team of staff and volunteers whose expertise spans youth work, counselling, education, and community development. Ongoing training and supervision ensured the delivery of safe, highquality services. Sixteen regular volunteers supported programme delivery during the year. All volunteers working with children and vulnerable groups completed appropriate DBS checks and safeguarding training, ensuring that activities were delivered in accordance with the charity's safeguarding responsibilities and commitment to best practice. 10 **CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES** ## **Participation Growth** Since its inception in 2019, Young Minders – The Home Education Hub has built a strong reputation among families, partners, and young people for providing inclusive educational and wellbeing opportunities for homeeducated children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). In 2023, Young Minders supported 820 children, young people, and families through its programmes and community activities. During the 2024/25 reporting period, participation increased to 945 participants, representing a 15% increase compared with the previous year. This growth reflects the increasing demand for accessible, communityled provision for home-educated families. and environmental learning linked to the organisation’s sustainability and ESG commitments. Young Minders’ programmes are designed to support children and young people who may face barriers to participation, particularly those with autism and additional needs. Through hands-on learning, social activities, and community engagement, our work helps to build confidence, reduce social isolation, and support educational and personal development. As Young Minders participation continues to grow, Young Minders remains committed to delivering inclusive, supportive, and high-quality programmes that foster confidence, wellbeing, and meaningful connections for children, young people, and their families. During the year, Young Minders continued to expand its programme offer, including STEAM learning opportunities, wellbeing initiatives such as Mind & Mocktails, community visits to STEM events, 11 ## **CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES** ## **Impact Metrics** Building on the progress made in 2023/24, Young Minders’ evaluation for 2024/25 demonstrates continued and growing impact across the communities we serve. - **95%** of families reported improvements in their children’s confidence, social skills, and engagement, reflecting the positive impact of our expanding programme offer, including STEAM learning, rugby sessions, and initiatives such as Roots to Growth. - **92%** of parents observed reduced social isolation and increased opportunities for their children to connect with peers in safe and inclusive environments. - **97%** of young people reported - experiencing meaningful educational and personal growth through participation in Young Minders activities, including STEAM learning opportunities, group experiences such as Science Live, and wellbeing initiatives such as Mind & Mocktails. - **90%** of stakeholders and partners recognised Young Minders’ contribution to supporting education, mental health, and recreational opportunities for homeeducated young people and their families. These outcomes demonstrate that as participation increased from 820 young people and families in 2023 to 945 beneficiaries in 2024/25, the quality and impact of our programmes have remained strong. Our approach continues to ensure that organisational growth translates into tangible benefits for children, young people, and families, supporting learning, wellbeing, and social connection within the communities we serve. This stacked chart demonstrates how STEAM, Rugby, Roots to Growth and Mind & Mocktails have contributed to overall growth over the years. 12 **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT** ## **Governing Document** Young Minders is governed by its memorandum and articles of association, originally incorporated on 15th December 2023. The charity is a limited company by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006. The strategic direction of the charity is overseen by the Board of Trustees. ## **Recruitment and appointment of new Trustees** Anyone willing to serve as a trustee, and who does not meet the disqualification criteria under Article 27 of the Articles of Association, may be appointed by a decision of the existing trustees. At the annual meeting where the accounts are adopted after three years of the charity’s incorporation, one-third of the trustees, generally those who have served the longest, must retire from office. Retiring trustees may be reappointed, but a trustee who has served three consecutive terms must take a break from office. Trustees maintain up-to-date knowledge through ongoing professional development, reading, training, and discussions during trustee meetings. It is the policy of Young Minders to conduct DBS checks for all trustees The trustees meet at least five times per year, with one meeting being an Away Day, where former trustees, staff, and the Leadership Group of young people come together to discuss strategy and values. The Director reports on the operational plan at each meeting, and the Board regularly reviews the Register of Risk, fundraising goals, finances, and safeguarding policies. A Finance Sub-Committee meets monthly with the Director to monitor the charity’s financial health. The Board has delegated clear authority to the Director, with the Chair and Director holding separate regular meetings for additional oversight. The board of trustees brings diverse expertise, including backgrounds in finance, governance, fundraising, law, policy, and youth development. 13 ## **KEY RISKS AND MITIGATION** ## **Harm to Young People** There is a risk of physical, emotional, or psychological harm to children and young people participating in our activities. This is mitigated by: - Prioritising safeguarding through an annually reviewed Safeguarding Policy aligned with current legislation and best practice. - comprehensive training for all staff and volunteers (including areas such as suicide prevention, radicalisation, online safety, and responsible social media use). - Application of detailed risk assessments for all sessions and offsite activities to ensure safe participation. ## **Volunteer and Staff Capacity** There is a risk that increasing participation and programme expansion may lead to insufficient staff or volunteer capacity, which could impact delivery quality or participant safety. This is mitigated through: This is mitigated through: - Ongoing programme monitoring. - Regular feedback from participants and families. - Use of evaluation data to inform improvements, staff and volunteer development aligned to programme needs. - Trustee oversight of quality assurance processes. ## **Health and Safety (including Offsite Activities)** There is a risk of accidents or injury during physical activities, experiments, or trips. This is mitigated through: - Comprehensive risk assessments. - Trained staff (including first aid and emergency procedures). - Regular review of safety policies - Appropriate insurance cover to ensure safe and compliant delivery of all activities. ## **Financial Sustainability** - Structured recruitment, induction, and ongoing support aligned with growth. - Regular supervision and training. - Clear role descriptions. - Contingency planning to ensure continuity of delivery. ## **Programme Quality and Consistency** There is a risk that rapid growth may impact the consistency and quality of sessions, including STEAM, rugby, Roots to Growth, and wellbeing initiatives. There is a risk that funding shortfalls or delays could impact the charity’s ability to deliver its programmes. This is mitigated through: - Robust financial planning and budgeting, regular financial reporting to Trustees. - A diversified fundraising approach to reduce reliance on any single income source. 14 ## **KEY RISKS AND MITIGATION** ## **Data Protection and Online Safety** There is a risk that mismanagement of personal data or online interactions could compromise participant confidentiality or safety. This is mitigated through: - GDPR compliance. - Clear data protection policies. - Staff training. - Secure systems with controlled access to sensitive information. - Monitored online activity in line with policies covering social media, photography, and virtual sessions. ## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS** ## **REGISTERED OFFICE** Granville Close, Croydon, London, CR0 5PX Approved by order of the board of trustees on 31st October 2025 and signed on its behalf by: **REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER** CE034648. (England and Wales ) **REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER** 1206233 ## **TRUSTEES** E Njenga S May M N Awudzah ...............………………………............................................... M N Awudzah **Trustee** 15 ## **FINANCIAL SUMMARY Nov 2024 – Oct 2025** ## **Overview** The financial performance of Young Minders – The Home Education Hub for the year ended 31 October 2025 shows steady income generation and prudent cost management, resulting in a modest but positive surplus for the period. During the year, the organisation generated total income of £20,997.00, primarily from grant funding (£17,155.00) and educational training activities (£3,842.00). This indicates that the organisation continues to rely largely on grant support while gradually supplementing this with programme-based training income. **Key Financial Highlights (Year Ending 31 October 2025)** Total Turnover: **£20,997.00** - Income from Grants Funding: £17,155 (82% of total income) - Income from Educational Training: £3,842 (18% of total income) Cost of Sales: **£13,369.16** - Direct Expenses: £6,660.28 - Direct Wages: £5,956.30 • Project Material Costs: £1,352.58 Gross Profit: **£7,027.14** Administrative Costs: **£5,593.25** - Largest administrative expenses included Consulting (£2,771.20) - Operating Profit: £8,556.93 16 **FINANCIAL SUMMARY Nov 2024 – Oct 2025** ## **Quarterly Performance** Nov 2024 - Jan 2025 - Total Turnover: **£2,344** - Operating Loss: £(2,060) - High direct expenses and lower grant income led to a deficit this quarter Feb 2025 - Apr 2025 - Total Turnover: £15,624 - Operating Profit: £6,461 - Strong grant funding and controlled costs contributed to this surplus May 2025 - July 2025 - Total Turnover: £1,663 - Operating Loss: £(2,840) - Minimal income paired with substantial costs drove a significant loss reliance on grants while developing programme-based income. Direct programme delivery costs amounted to £13,969.16, resulting in a gross surplus of £7,027.14, which contributed towards covering operational expenses. Operating expenses totalled £5,593.25, including consultancy, workshops, rent, software, printing, travel, and volunteer costs. After all expenses, the organisation recorded a net surplus of £1,534, reflecting careful cost control and stable operations while providing a small surplus to support future activities. Aug 2025 - Oct 2025 - Total Turnover: £1,366 - Operating Profit: £(28) - The charity did not secure any grant funding during this reporting period. ## **Key Highlights** The financial performance of Young Minders – The Home Education Hub for the year ended 31 October 2025 reflects stable income generation and prudent financial management, resulting in a modest surplus for the period. During the year, the organisation generated total income of £20,997.00, mainly from grant funding (£17,154.50) and educational training activities (£3,841.80), demonstrating continued 17 ## **INCOME ANALYSIS** - **Primary Income Sources** - Grant Funding: £17,155 (82% of total income) - Reliance on grant funding is high, which poses a risk if grants are reduced in the future - Educational Training Income: £3,842 (18% of total income) ## **Quarterly Income Trends** - Highest turnover occurred in Feb 2025–April 2025: £14,916 due to significant grant funding (£10,416) - Lowest turnover was in Aug–Sep 2025: £1,366, as grant funding dropped significantly to £0, highlighting income volatility - A supplementary source, but limited in contribution 18 ## **EXPENDITURE ANALYSIS** **Programme delivery costs: £13,969 (67% of turnover)** Key components include: ## **Quarterly Analysis** - Highest costs occurred in Feb–Apr 2024: £4,117.46 (Cost of Sales) and £3,369.55 (Administrative Costs) - Direct Wages: £5,956 - Project Material Costs: £1,353 - Direct Expenses: £6,660 ## **Administrative Costs: £5,493 (26% of turnover)** - Lowest costs were seen in Nov 2023–Jan 2024, reflecting efficient cost management during highincome quarters Major categories: - Consulting: £2,771 - Rent: £515.6 19 ## **CLOSING FINANCIAL SUMMARY** The financial performance of Young Minders for the year ending 31 October 2025, demonstrates continued prudent financial management and commitment to sustaining its charitable mission. Despite variations in activity levels during the year, the organisation achieved an annual surplus of £1,533.89, reflecting stable operations and careful cost control. ## **Overall** The financial outcome demonstrates stable financial stewardship and operational discipline. The surplus achieved, although modest, supports the organisation’s ability to maintain its services, strengthen operational capacity, and continue delivering support to home-educating families while pursuing long-term sustainability. ## **Key Highlights** - Income generation was primarily driven by grant funding (£17,154.50), supplemented by educational training income (£3,841.80). While grant funding remains the organisation’s main source of income, the contribution from training activities highlights ongoing efforts to broaden programmebased revenue streams. - Expenditure was aligned with the delivery of charitable activities, with key costs including direct wages, project materials, and programme delivery expenses, alongside administrative costs such as consultancy, workshops, rent, software, and volunteer-related expenses. - The balance between programme delivery costs (£13,969.16) and administrative expenses (£5,493.25) reflects responsible allocation of resources towards the organisation’s core activities. 20 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examlner's report on the accounts Section A Independent Examiner's Reporl Report lo the trust YOUNG MINDERS THE BAME HOME EDUCATION HUB On •cc(wnts for th? year ended 31_10_2025 Charity no lif any) 1206233 Set out on pages I rewrt lo the trustees on my examinal]on of the accounts of the above chanty {Ihe Trust") for the year ended 31110 12025. Responsibilities and basis of report As the charity's trustees. you are resPon￿bI? for the preparation of the accounts in acc¢xdance vrith the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (Ihe Act"). I ￿[K)rt in respect of my examnation of the Trusl's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carying out my examinat￿. I have folbwed all the applicable Diredirms given by the Charity Commissi under section 145{5Xb) of the Act. Independent I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters havo examiners statement come to my attenth)n ￿ connection with the examination lotheT than that disclosed below ') which gives rne cause to believe that in. any material respect: the aCC￿ntsng records were not kept in aCCord￿ce wrth section 130 of the Chanties Act: or the ac¢tyJrts not accord wth the accounting records" or the accounts dKI not ccffipty with the applicab￿ requirements conceming the fom) and ccx)lent of acu>unts set (yjt in the Chafities (Accounts and Reports) Regulat￿$ 2008 other Ihan any requirement that the accounts gNe a 'true and fairf v*w which is nol a matter consKlered as part of an independent examination. I have no concems and have come acr055 no other Matte￿ in connection 7Mth the examinatTron to which attentK)n shoukl be drawn in thts report order lo enable a woper undetsIand￿9 of the acc(wnts to be reached. 12.03.2026 Signed: Name: MUTIU AOEBUKOLA ADEJUMOBI Relevant professional qualificationls) ow body lif any): Institute of Chartered Accountants n England and Wales {ICAEW) ACA141412371) Address: 39 Chatsworth Road IER Oct 2018 21 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT Croydon CRO 1HF Section B Disclosure Only complete rf the examiner needs to highlwJht materhql matters of concem (see CC32, Independent eXaMinat￿n of charty accounts.. directs'ons and gU￿ance for examinefs). Glve here brlef detalls of any items that the examiTref wishes to disclose. IER Oct 2018 22 ANNUAL ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD Chanty Narr Annual accounts for the To eriod 01.11.'2024 d3te 3111012025 Section A Statement of financial activities {including summary R•StrI￿•d Unr•sffia•d In¢om Endobvm•m funds •Jnds Prior ￿ar funds R•eoMm•nd•d eat•q•rf•s by adv Total funds Ineom• INtst• 31 F01 F02 F03 F04 F05 Incorne endol￿nents fri￿. 3.842 3.842 Total Expendlture INotes 61 32 729 expttdilltrè on.. S10 (A￿[ Toral S12 463 N•t in¢om?Ilexp?nditurel b•foT• S13 S14 N•t incomellexpenditurel after tax s15 515 2.651 3.207 1.534 Net Incomellexpendlturel Extraordinary Transfers between lund$ Other recogni¥•d gain¥lllo$$•81.' S17 818 S19 S21 $22 Net movement In funds Réeonclliatk*n of runds.. S23 3207 Total fund8 ￿￿10￿ ft>nvard 23 **BALANCE SHEET** - - - - - - |M N Awudzah|12/03/2026| |---|---| ||12/03/2026| 24 YOUNG MINDERS IN ACTION In wr Home Jounl•V h Confldence 25 ## **FUTURE PLAN** During the past year, Young Minders – The Home Education Hub made significant progress against the priorities set for 2024/25, including expanding programme delivery, strengthening partnerships, and increasing participation across our activities. Building on these achievements, the charity will continue to focus on sustainability, responsible growth, and deepening our impact within the homeeducating community. ## **Sustaining and Expanding Programme Delivery** Young Minders will continue to deliver a range of inclusive programmes that support the educational, physical, and emotional wellbeing of children and young people. This includes STEAM learning sessions, physical activity through partnerships such as Croydon Rugby CRFC, wellbeing initiatives such as Mind & Mocktails, and community engagement events. We aim to further develop these activities to ensure they remain accessible, engaging, and responsive to the needs of the families we serve. ## **Strengthening Financial Sustainability** A key priority for the coming year is to secure sustainable funding that enables the charity to maintain and grow its services. Trustees will continue to diversify income streams through grant applications, partnerships, fundraising initiatives, and community engagement. The charity will also continue building its financial reserves, ensuring greater resilience and the ability to sustain essential services during periods of income fluctuation. ## **Supporting Staff and Volunteer Capacity** To ensure effective delivery of programmes, Young Minders will continue investing in its staff and volunteer team. This includes securing funding to sustain key staff roles, strengthening volunteer recruitment and training, and ensuring the organisation has the operational capacity needed to support its growing community. 26 ## **FUTURE PLAN** ## **Strategic Direction and Sustainability** During the following period, Young Minders initiated the development of a five-year strategic plan (2025–2030) to guide the organisation’s long-term growth and sustainability. This strategy will focus on strengthening governance, diversifying income streams, expanding community programmes, and embedding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into the charity’s work. The strategy reflects Young Minders’ commitment to operating responsibly while continuing to provide meaningful educational, wellbeing, and community opportunities for home-educating children and families. In particular, the charity aims to promote environmental awareness, build stronger partnerships, and ensure programmes are delivered in a financially and operationally sustainable way. ## **Partnerships and Community Collaboration** Young Minders will continue to strengthen relationships with organisations that share our **ethos,** including educational, sporting, and community partners. These collaborations help broaden opportunities for **young people** and ensure that programmes remain relevant and impactful. Monitoring Impact and Community Voice The charity will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of its programmes through feedback from families, young people, and partners. The involvement of parents on the Board of Trustees and the development of a youth voice group will remain central to ensuring that decision-making reflects the needs and aspirations of the community. ## **Looking Ahead** By continuing to prioritise sustainable funding, strong partnerships, and responsive programme delivery, Young Minders aims to remain a trusted and valuable resource for home-educating families. These efforts will ensure the charity continues to grow responsibly while supporting children, young people, and families to learn, connect, and thrive. Parent volunteers supporting during the Hamilton Teens Group Trip 27 ## **LETTER TO SUPPORTERS AND STAKEHOLDERS** Dear Supporters and Stakeholders, As Chair of Young Minders – The Home Education Hub, it is a privilege to reflect on a year of growth, learning, and community impact. Thanks to the dedication of our staff, committed volunteers, supportive families, and partners, the charity has continued to make a meaningful difference for home-educated children and young people. This year, participation in our programmes grew to 945 children, young people, and families, reflecting the rising demand for inclusive learning and wellbeing opportunities. Our activities provide safe, engaging spaces where young people build confidence, develop new skills, and form meaningful social connections. We delivered a range of impactful initiatives, including our Mind & Mocktails wellbeing event, a group visit to Science Live, and our Sustainability Day, which encouraged families to explore environmental awareness and responsible community action. Alongside STEAM sessions and rugby partnerships, these programmes support both educational and emotional wellbeing. We also strengthened governance and community voice, welcoming several parents to our Board of Trustees and engaging young people in providing feedback to shape the charity’s future direction. Partnerships with local organisations and leaders, including discussions with the Mayor of Croydon, have opened new opportunities to support home-educating families. Looking ahead, we remain focused on long-term sustainability, strengthening funding, growing reserves, and implementing our five-year strategic plan. On behalf of the Board, I extend sincere thanks to all staff, volunteers, families, and supporters whose commitment enables Young Minders to empower young people and strengthen our community. Together, we remain dedicated to creating a supportive environment where every child can learn, connect, and thrive. **Elizabeth Njenga Chairman of Young Minders, The BAME Home Education Hub** 28 I can't express how grateful I am for the support we've received. Each session we attend leaves us feeling inspired and better equipped to handle the challenges of home education Loved the general vibe and the friendly volunteers—made the event so welcoming! Thank you so much for today, what a fantastic initiative it exceeded all of our expectations! So glad the rain predicted held off for most of the day too. A wonderful experience overall. My child enjoyed the slime and aeroplane activities, and I appreciated the variety of hands-on projects. I’d love to know more about similar future events The event was well-organised, and we felt very welcomed. My children really enjoyed the hands-on activities, especially the slime-making. Thank you for such a wonderful experience Thank you, Young Minders, for allowing us to have such an amazing experience! My family and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Being part of Young Minders opened doors to opportunities like attending NHS networking events and learning about healthcare innovations—it’s been an inspiring and transformative experience. The activities were excellent and kept my child’s attention all day. The setup was very family-friendly, and it was exciting to see my child so curious and interested in science and engineering. 29 Email: contact@youngminders.org Website: www.youngminders.org Facebook: @youngminders LinkedIn: Young Minders Young Minders is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales. Registered Company number: CE034648 Registered Charity number: 1206233 V1.5