## Annual Review 2022 -2023
Redbourn Community Group Connecting and supporting the village
We believe _passionately_ that everyone in Redbourn matters and our volunteers strive constantly to support our community in as many practical ways as possible
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## Depending on Volunteers
**Charities like ours depend on volunteers; we rely on those who complete day-to-day tasks, manage the delivery of our services and take on additional responsibilities. One of our key challenges this year was ensuring we had a new Treasurer, see page 14 and two other trustees, Sue and Edward, see more on pages 8 & 9.**
I would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to **Peta and Dennis** , who have been exceptional trustees. Working alongside them has been a great privilege; they have both been involved in shaping the charity over the last eight years, dedicating and committing hours and hours of work to ensuring the charity is compliant and has robust, compliant governance. We owe Peta a huge debt of gratitude – even small local charities these days have to comply with legislation; her knowledge of the Equality Act, the Human Rights Act, her professional HR experience and skills have been invaluable – she has written policies, role profiles, risk assessments, she is the Safeguarding Lead, she has supported recruitment, provided training and induction as well as volunteering as a car driver and leading a team of litter pickers.
Dennis is an exceptional treasurer; his wisdom, pragmatism, humour and commitment are some of the things we will miss. I will never forget those lockdown months when the charity had to step up so rapidly, reorganising systems involving financial income and expenditure to ensure volunteers and clients were efficiently reimbursed – Dennis was magnificent – he is one of those people who enables things to happen, he moans a bit sometimes and we can’t blame him especially when dealing with the banks and other bureaucratic organisations. It can be very frustrating, but he gets on with it and makes it all work. The charity’s finances are very healthy and we have Dennis to thank for that.
Throughout 2023, other key team leaders have enabled us to provide our broad range of services. These include **Mike Pryor** , who has worked tirelessly as Mobility Equipment Co-ordinator; he has also painted the garage floor and removed debris from the rear of the garage, all beyond the call of duty. Our dedicated team of minibus managers, **Alan Gibson, Dave Paynter, Brian Gunson** and **John Convery** , are always on hand to resolve issues; they never complain, even when challenged and frustrated by seemingly straightforward matters which prove impossible, such as the handle on the minibus door. Our Street Coordinators, **John** and **Pauline Ridgwell** , work quietly in the background, ensuring a Welcome Pack for new residents to Redbourn. We are also fortunate to have an excellent team of very competent administrators who volunteer alongside ClaireLouise. Drivers, Couriers, Friendly Talkers and Walkers, Litter Pickers, Shoppers and Event Volunteers all contribute. I thank them all on behalf of everyone in the community who benefits from the generosity of their time and care.
I hope this Review succeeds in showcasing some of the fantastic work of so many of our volunteers. Their shared experiences will hopefully help others feel inspired and engage in volunteering. Thank you to those who completed the Volunteer Survey in June; we were pleased to see that 85% feel the work is meaningful and has a positive impact. My main message to all of you is one of thanks and appreciation for your contribution to the community; I can assure you that it makes a difference. Best wishes to you all.
**Sally Bartlett** _Chair_
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Board of Trustees…
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Dennis Poole Edward Wheen Simone Deans
Treasurer
Ben Miller
Catharine Pusey James Regan Peta Gunson Sue Hill
Vice Chair & Safeguarding Lead
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## Transport to Medical Appointments
**Our volunteers made 632 journeys to medical and wellbeing appointments as local as Redbourn Health Centre and as far away as London, Stevenage and Cambridge.**
**We allocated £6,000 of funding from Harlow Health Centres Trust for transport services, when volunteers were not available to take residents to their medical appointments.**
## Total medical & wellbeing appointments
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72
61 60 59 58 62
50 50
45
43
36 36
Sept 22 Oct 22Nov 22 Dec 22Jan 23 Feb 23Mar 23 Apr 23May 23 Jun 23 Jul 23 Aug 23
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_**to the community! I have had numerous medical appointments that the volunteers have taken me to. I would not have been able to get there without their help as I don’t have a car and cannot rely on public transport. They wait for me and take me home without any complaints even if I have been longer than expected. I am eternally grateful for all their help and patience. Thank you so much.”**_ **Chris**
_**“The Community Group’s service of drivers to Dr and Hospital appointments has been incredibly helpful. I am 74 and have no family nearby. I could not get to appointments without Redbourn Community Group’s assistance. And could not pay for taxi trips at all. Many thanks indeed!”**_ **Clare**
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“Redbourn community group has helped
me over the past few years get to my
appointments on time every time, with very
friendly volunteers always there to help. If
there was never a Redbourn Community
Group, I would definitely struggle to get to my
appointments and so would other patients in
the community.” Tonie
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_Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_ **03**
## Meet some of our amazing volunteers ...
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Mark
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**I moved to Redbourn at the end of last summer. Being new to this active village, enjoying its common and running & walking in the surrounding countryside, I wanted to do my bit, however small. So, when Sally dropped RCG’s welcome information through my door (before I’d unpacked!), I didn’t have to search far for volunteering possibilities.**
I volunteered as a driver. Once I had been accepted, following an understandably rigorous checking process, including an ‘interrogation’ by Peta over Zoom, I began receiving a simple list of car journey requests.
All requests are pretty local; my first was to St Albans hospital, the farthest so far being to L&D hospital. Whether alone or occasionally with friends or relatives accompanying, the conversation is often quite entertaining! Generally, I will help one of RCG’s clients about once a fortnight and the trips have taken between an hour and two & a half. The longest has been a four-hour barge trip along the Grand Union Canal, having picked up three clients and accompanying the group. Having a few hours to spare each month, I appreciate the appreciation shown by those when dropped back home.
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Paul
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**I had previously volunteered on a few ad-hoc events but after a message from a neighbour decided to volunteer as a medical appointment’s driver for RCG.** I work mostly from home, across several time zones on project work. Sometimes I’m super busy, sometimes not, sometimes I work UK hours, sometimes not. I thought this would be a good opportunity to help out once or twice a month around my work schedules, force myself out of the house and give a little back.
The team welcomed me with a robust onboarding process safeguarding, police checks, insurance, training and licence checks. By some good fortune they were all good and I was ready to start. You can choose the best mode of communication, mine being e-mail as that’s very quick and easy, RCG post emails about twice a week
and if there is a journey that fits it with my schedule I sign up. I’m targeting about two per month and so far, all good, some local trips to the Redbourn surgery and a couple to the L&D. I’m going to branch out as far as Barnet next week! I’m all electric so it is interesting to see the client reaction to these new-fangled electric cars – just an old sped up milk float really! The clients are super nice and appreciative.
**I came to Redbourn about a year ago to start a Home Care agency but was still working as a social worker. I have wanted to be a volunteer as I am aware that many people have no contact of family or friends.** The lockdown made me appreciate the importance of helping one another and human contact. I was lucky to find a small office on the High Street and while browsing at the Christmas market last year, I came across the RCG volunteers and wanted to be part of it. When Sally explained the different volunteer roles, the driver role, which involves taking residents to medical appointments, resonated with me. The good thing about being a volunteer at RCG is the flexibility. You can give back depending on your availability. I can juggle work, a new business, a caring role and still find some time to take someone to an appointment. I find it fulfilling when doing my volunteer role, as it is more blessed to give than to receive. Sally and other volunteers I have met at RCG are friendly, helpful, and understanding. I encourage anyone thinking about giving back to the community to apply.
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Tegwen
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**I moved to Redbourn almost a year ago now with my husband and daughter. We knew that there was a strong sense of community here and a range of groups and societies which bring people together.** This really appealed to us and was one of our reasons for moving – although the pretty village with its beautiful common, countryside and proximity to St Albans and Harpenden figured in this too!
I have been involved with a number of charities over the years and have always found volunteering to be very rewarding. So, hearing about the Redbourn Community Group, I contacted Sally to find out how I could help. I had an initial discussion with the office, then an induction with Peta who described the various roles for volunteers.
Helping with car journeys for local people who need help to get to medical appointments seemed a good way to start to get involved and I have been able to fit it in with other things. I liked the flexibility of being able to help when I can – like many people our life can be busy with family and other commitments and we also go abroad from time to time.
Being part of a wider group of volunteers means that we can all help out when we have spare time but there’s no problem at all if life gets busy. I also helped with litter picking after the Redbourn Festival in the Summer and found it surprisingly good fun! I can recommend the group to anyone who’d be interested in getting involved, no matter how much or how little time they have to spare. It’s a good feeling to be an active part of the community here – and as a newcomer to the village, I can appreciate that this is one of the things that makes Redbourn special.
**04** _Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_
## Outings
- **Thanks to grants from St Albans City & District Council’s Community Fund, the Co-op Local Causes Fund and Community Development Action, we subsidised outings and events to the tune of £4,342 so that any of our registered clients who wished could participate.**
- **Our volunteer drivers chauffeured residents in the minibus to a variety of places at least once a week for 50 weeks of the year.**
- **We had a total of 500 passengers on our minibus outings.**
- **We took a coach with 38 passengers to Southend providing a change of scene and some fun, thanks to the generous grant from St Albans City & District Council’s Community Fund.**
## Southend
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“We can only describe the visit as perfect in every
way. From leaving home to returning we were
looked after by such kind volunteers, including of
course your good self for which we send our most
sincere thanks. It was a most comfortable coach
journey & everything that was arranged made it a
day we shall remember for a long time.”
Janice & Derek
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**Roy and Gloria**
_Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_ **05**
_**“We had a lovely coach trip there and back in a comfy coach with a very friendly coach driver, we had a lovely day in Southend, the weather could not have been better, we enjoyed a lovely lunch in boat House cafe, we loved the funfair, and later two giant ice-creams, we paddled in sea and sat on the beach, we also took the lift up to the shopping centre, and later walked along the tree lined shaded walk bellow the shopping.”**_
_**“We had a wonderful day! The weather was beautiful and we had a nice walk along the pier, had fish and chips, ice cream and even a paddle in the sea......Bliss!”**_
## **Lauren & Sharon**
## **Chris & Maureen**
_**“Thank you to all the volunteers for a good day out. I know Southend well and it was good to just wander, paddle, enjoy the train, meet up with friends and enjoy Jellied Eels! (Not everyone’s taste I know).”**_
**Janice**
## Grand Union Canal Trip
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“I was most fortunate to be in the party which paid
an interesting visit to the Grand Union Canal…….
Travelling on the water is a very different
experience from usual; slower, usually quieter….
Sheldrake3 operates throughout the year, is
comfortable, roomy, with toilets. There is access for
wheelchairs. A meal of fish and chips etc was also
bookable and eaten on board. For the adventurous
there is the opportunity to assist in operating the
locks. The Geographer in me found this a fascinating
and stimulating half day experience.”
Mavis
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_**“Waterways Experiences gave our group such a wonderful day out. The knowledgeable crew answered questions, helped organise our delicious, and enormous, fish and chip lunch, and even provided wonderful, knitted blankets for those chilly moments. A wonderful way to while away the day surrounded by nature.”**_
_**Rosie**_
**06** _Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_
_**“We had such a lovely time on the canal trip. The crew were very welcoming and helpful. Fish and chips were ordered for our lunch and delivered to the boat; it was very nice. We had soft drinks served to us throughout and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves and chatting away. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants a nice relaxing day on the canal.”**_
_**“I had a very relaxing trip on the canal trip on Tuesday, lots of beautiful houses and gardens to view along the way, as well as wildlife. Thank you to all volunteers for making it a very enjoyable experience.”**_
## **Maureen**
**Chris**
_**Pat - “The canal boat trip was most enjoyable.”**_
_**Davina - “A truly wonderful day out so appreciate how we were looked after.”**_
## Other days out ...
_**Daphne - “Thanks for a lovely day out.”**_
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Bletchley Park
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Christmas Lunch
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Garden Centre
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Pub Lunch!
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Herrings Green Farm
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It’s been a busy year!
_Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_ **07**
## Litter Picking
**The RCG team of litter-picking volunteers provides a valuable service to the village whilst generating a sense of camaraderie and pride in results. Group picks take place 6-8 times per month on various days and times. You choose!**
_**“A word of encouragement for anyone new to the village and on their own....do join the Litter Picking group - you can join in whenever it suits (Peta sends dates and times for each month) - it’s the perfect way to have a walk (when perhaps you would stay indoors) - you discover roads and areas of Redbourn which you did not know existed.... and you help keep Redbourn tidy - it’s so good!! ”**_
**Hilary**
_**“My wife and I moved to Redbourn, from Harpenden, in 2020. I am an employment solicitor who, as retirement approached, volunteered as an RCG driver and I have since become a trustee and an occasional litter-picker. These pleasurable and rewarding activities do not take up more than a few hours per month and do not interfere with my other commitments and hobbies, which include golf, cycling and watching cricket.**_
_**I have been particularly impressed with the enthusiasm of all the volunteers, in the various services offered by RCG, and in the professionalism with which this excellent charity is run. Redbourn is greatly enriched by its many community activities, of which all those at RCG play an important part. ”**_
**Edward**
## Mobility Equipment
**We spent £2,500 on maintenance of electric scooters, wheelchairs and other walking aids which are almost constantly out on loan to assist with the mobility of Redbourn residents.**
## Welcome Packs
**We delivered 56 Welcome Packs to new Redbourn residents to make them aware of all the activities and services available to them.**
**08** _Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_
## Walking and Talking
**Our volunteers went out walking with residents 71 times, covering many miles and supporting people who might not have confidence to walk alone.**
**Our volunteers made over 1,000 friendly phone calls to residents who are alone or socially isolated.**
_**“I have been a volunteer with the Redbourn Community Group for several years and recently have become a trustee. I felt daunted at the prospect of attending the monthly meetings where others have specialist skills of which I know very little. However, I am pleased to be part of the group working for the community and helping to make Redbourn such a special village.**_
_**Covid made us all realize how lonely life could become without the contact of family and friends. During this time one of the trustees initiated our friendly calls service where a volunteer would make regular calls to Redbourn residents to chat about almost anything. Post-Covid we recognised a continued need for friendly calls and more recently friendly walks. The walks offer an opportunity to get out for a short walk which invariably involves a cuppa at the Village Hall, Christchurch, the Cricket Pavilion or The Hub.**_
_**My role as coordinator is to pair volunteers with clients and assist the smooth running of friendly talks and walks. The positive feedback we receive shows us that talking and walking are fun and benefit both clients and volunteers.”**_
## **Sue**
_**“I have only been in Redbourn for 3 years and have been amazed and delighted at the community spirit that exists here. I was first introduced to volunteering with Redbourn Community Group by joining the Litter Picking group which does a great job of keeping the village tidy, either litter picking with the group or individually as their personal commitments allow.**_
_**Recently I have joined the Friendly Walk Group who help to give residents the confidence to walk for a cup of tea or coffee, and sometimes cake, to one of the several places around the village. Here they receive a warm welcome and people to chat with. I thoroughly enjoy my roles and they also give me, as a newcomer, a certain confidence to meet new people and find my way around the village.”**_
## **Vicky**
_Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_ **09**
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https://www.healthwatchhertford-
shire.co.uk/news/2023-07-17/9-10-
herts-residents-told-us-they-have-
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## **Key Findings:**
The survey showed that specific groups have been more afected than others – including single parents, people under the age of 54, those from Asian or Black ethnic background, disabled people and carers.
**have just enough, or not enough money for necessities.**
**have reduced the amount of food they eat and/or bought cheaper types of food.**
**have used less heating or made other choices to reduce their energy bills.**
**said their access to healthcare has been affected by rising costs. Many have not visited the dentist or opticians, could not travel to medical appointments, purchase prescriptions or medication, or buy mobility aids and equipment to help with their health.**
**said their physical health has been affected by rising costs.**
**have accessed said their mental health Only support for their has been affected by 12% physical and /or rising costs. mental health.**
There are no simple solutions to the cost-of-living crisis and getting people the support they need requires long and short-term actions. It is essential not to dismiss the continuing, long lasting and damaging consequences of this crisis on the lives of people in our community. The survey indicated that the awareness of local provisions and support was relatively good, but the actual use of these services was low.
## So what assistance is available for residents in Redbourn who are finding things more difficult?
## The Redbourn Community Food Club
## **Redbourn Community Food Club**
is open every Thursday from 3.30 pm - 6 pm at St. Luke’s School, Crouch Hall Lane, Redbourn AL3 7ET, providing food and support for those in need in Redbourn. There are no eligibility criteria, no judgment, no stigma. For a £10 annual membership fee and a £5 (or £10) weekly contribution, £25 (or £50) worth of food can be obtained from the club.
## **St Albans and District Foodbank**
helps local people in crisis. The foodbank in Redbourn opens every Monday from 2-3.30pm at the Methodist Church, North Common, AL3 7BU. You can request a voucher from your child’s school, Citizens Advice, your surgery or Redbourn Community Group.
**Tel: 01727 613019**
**https://stalbansdistrict. foodbank.org.uk/**
## **Mind in Mid Herts**
If you’re finding things hard, you’re not alone. Mind give information and support. If you need non-urgent information about mental health support and services, there are a few things you can do. Call the Infoline
## **Tel: 0300 123 3393**
Email **info@mind.org.uk**
Read the information online **https://www.herts mindnetwork.org/**
**Tel: 07771 786819**
**http://www.theredbourncharities. org/community-food-club.html**
**Hertfordshire County Council** gives help to manage the cost of living **https://www.hertfordshire. gov.uk/about-the-council/news/ cost-of-living/help-to-managethe-cost-of-living.aspx** .
Help is available by calling the Council
**Tel: 0300 123 4042**
**St Albans District Council** also has a webpage with support for the cost of living **https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/ cost-living-support**
**Tel: 01727 866100**
## **Redbourn Parish Council**
has created a webpage called **Helping Households Hub** which has a number of useful organisations and charities who can help. **- https://www.redbourn pc.gov.uk/ helping-households-hub**
**Tel: 01582 794832**
**Communities** ~~**1**~~ **[st]** has a particularly useful website with links to all relevant resources, schemes and local organisations which can be of help. **https://www.communities1st.org.uk/ CostOfLiving**
**Tel: 01727 649900**
**NHS Healthy Start**
if you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help buy healthy food and milk.
**https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/**
**Tel: 0300 330 7010**
## ‘Worried about Money?’
**Worried about Money:** Financial advice and support is available if you’re struggling to make ends meet. Find out where to get help in St Albans and District.
**worried-about-money-st-albansleafet.pdf (redbourn-pc.gov.uk)**
**Citizens Advice** drop-in service
at Redbourn Parish Centre runs every Monday from 12.00pm - 2.00pm. They provide advice over the phone, online and by email. Whether you’re struggling to pay bills, needing information on benefits, worrying about work or housing, dealing with a relationship breakdown or another issue, talk to CA. They can also help you fill in forms to apply for benefits, grants or a Blue Badge and can find benefits you may be able to claim.
**Tel: 01727 811 118**
Monday to Thursday 10am to 4pm, Friday 10am to 1pm.
Or call Hertfordshire Adviceline (free)
## **Tel: 0800 144 8848**
Visit the website: **www.castad.org.uk**
**James Marshall Foundation** provides support for young people (under 25 years) in education and following new career opportunities. It offers funding for items such as uniform, laptops, school/college residential outings, equipment for apprenticeships and much more. **https://www. jamesmarshallfoundation.co.uk/**
**Tel: 01582 760735**
**Walking in Hertfordshire**
Walking is one of the easiest ways most of us can become a little more active, whether that’s aiming to increase your daily steps gradually, walking to school or work or exploring the countryside.
There are local opportunities in Redbourn - see the programmes on these websites **Hertfordshire Health Walks – - Walking in Hertfordshire Herts Sports Partnership (sportinherts.org.uk)**
**St Albans Old People’s Trust**
can give grants for a wide range of items and services for people over 60 who would struggle without this help.
**Tel: 07541 659442**
email **grants.admin@staopt.org**
**Active in Redbourn** is a group of local enthusiastic volunteers who encourage everyone to be ‘fitter, happier and healthier’ by promoting participation in ‘running, riding and roaming.’ Their website has 10 top tips for looking after your mental health as well as booklets with how to keep physically and mentally well and a **guide to healthy living** with yoga, nutrition, heritage walks and much more. **https://www.activeinredbourn.co.uk/ coronavirus/**
- Helps with transport to medical appointments for people who have no other means of transport
- Loans mobility equipment such as wheelchairs, rollators, zimmer frames, electric scooters
- Matches residents who want social contact with a volunteer who will regularly call by phone
- Finds volunteers who will walk out with a resident on weekly or fortnightly arrangement
- Issues foodbank vouchers to people who need them
- Provides a programme of minibus outings for people who struggle to get out by themselves.
- Provides a door-to-door minibus transport service to support a programme of shopping
**If you would like more information on any of these services, call 01582 794550 or email info@redbourncg.org**
## Shopping and Socialising
- **We took the minibus to Sainsburys, with and without passengers for shopping 98 times, taking 14 residents to do their own shopping once a fortnight.**
- **Our volunteers shopped 72 times for 6 individual households.**
- **Operating and garaging the minibus costs almost £5,000.**
- **We collected and drove residents to and from the Wednesday Club at St Mary’s Church Transept for 41 weeks of the year so that they had an opportunity to socialise.**
- **We took residents to Coffee Off the Common at the Village Hall for 49 weeks of the year helping to alleviate loneliness.**
## Volunteers
- **We enrolled 21 new volunteers to provide continuity of our services and to find personal enjoyment too.**
- **We spent over £3,000 on volunteer training: first aid, safeguarding, dementia awareness and managing risk to make sure that our volunteers are well supported.**
## Support
- **We have made contact with Redbourn Primary School to make them aware of support we could offer.**
- **We are in contact with St Luke’s, Active in Redbourn and other village organisations so that we become aware of support needs and can consider the help we might provide.**
## Food & Energy Grants
- **We distributed over £15,000 from funds supplied by Hertfordshire Community Foundation to households in need of energy and food.**
- **We enabled the purchase of fridges, washing machines and curtains for households lacking these basic items of equipment.**
- **Working in collaboration with St Albans & District Foodbank, we paid £1,650 for the room hire at the Methodist Church for the weekly Foodbank Distribution Service ensuring that there was a local source of food help.**
- **We issued 281 vouchers to residents for use at the Foodbank (providing food for 409 adults and 282 children).**
## The Harebell Club
The Harebell Club is a social forum for former volunteers and other supporters of Redbourn Community Group to socialise and support its work.
_**“It was wonderful, thank you and the team for all they did to make a great afternoon, again thank you.”**_ **Dennis** _**“Thanks to Janet Burdock for making such a magnificent cake.”**_ **Rosemary**
_**“It was a wonderful afternoon. Georgina recognised a lot of people in the film that the museum put on, she said it was truly special.”**_ **Charlotte**
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“It was a super event; you are all to be heartily
congratulated.” Barry
“Congratulations on yet another thoroughly well
organised event.” John
“Helen and I really enjoyed the Tea Party – many
thanks indeed for inviting us. We now feel that the
Coronation is truly over.” Stephen
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## Staying Safe in Your Own Home
**Staying Safe in Your Own Home** organised primarily by Neighbourhood Watch was a well-attended event. Presentations from: Hertfordshire police homed in on personal fraud, Trading Standards focused on scams by cold callers, Fire Officers focused on issues that caused the most common fires and how to give yourself and your home the best protection. To receive latest information on current scams and other police alerts you can register with Neighbourhood Watch by contacting:
**Malcolm Wickens: 07779 390929. malcolm.wickens01@gmail.com Ian White: 07847 923588. ian.c.white79@gmail.com**
## In Memory of Peter ‘Podge’ Fox MBE 1939-2022
A Betula Birch tree was planted on the common in memory of Peter Fox. In a private ceremony of just immediate family, together with myself and Barry Welch (representing the many years he worked alongside Podge in their roles at what was The Care Group). Podge loved his common, trees and birds and would be very pleased with this beautiful way to remember a very special community soul. Pictured his wife June and daughter Tish who would like to thank the Community Group and Parish Council for making this happen.
**Annie Manning**
_Redbourn Community Group Annual Review 2023_ **13**
## Finance Report
## **FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 AUGUST 2023**
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Expenditure:
£58,042.59
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## **Overview**
**The financial state of the charity is very healthy as of 31st August 2023, the end of our financial year.**
## **Income**
We received donations during the year of almost £35,000, which included bequests, gifts in memory of relatives and friends, the Classics Motor Show, collecting boxes, plus many individual donations from clients and supporters.
A remarkable total of £26,233 in grants was made by a number of organisations including Redbourn Parish Council, which demonstrated its continuing support with another grant of £5,000 this year for our minibus. These grants have enabled RCG to maintain a range of activities which increased during and since the pandemic, and which are providing much-needed help within our community.
Overall, our income for the year was very heartening and we ended the period with a surplus of almost £15,000 over our outgoings. I should note that £3,000 of this was donated back to us from our sister charity, the Care Trust, which is in the process of closing. The Trust has now returned the whole of its cash holdings to RCG except for a residual balance of about £350.
## **Expenditure**
The Expenditure Statement demonstrates the rising costs associated with our growing range of community activities, coupled with the inevitable impact of the current high levels of inflation. Many of our costs are covered by the grants we have received, including taxis (to cover medical appointments where volunteers are unavailable), events and outings, and grants to support residents with various needs.
Whilst costs are rising steadily the Trustees remain focused on, and committed to, ensuring our funds are directed towards benefiting our community and minimising overheads and eliminating waste.
**Dennis Poole** Treasurer
## _**A very warm welcome to our new Treasurer - Alan Mason**_
Alan Mason moved to Redbourn from Shenley in 2021. Now retired, he is a qualified actuary and spent his whole career in the insurance industry in a variety of leadership roles, including as a Chief Risk Officer. He has also been a management consultant and has worked for the financial services regulator. He currently volunteers at a charity shop in St Albans and for the Harpenden Trust. He loves sport, particularly cricket, and enjoys theatre, eating out and trying to keep himself fit.
## Income and Ex enditure Statement p
## **INCOME**
## **EXPENDITURE**
## **NET FINANCIAL BALANCE**
||**2022-2023**|
|---|---|
|Donations|32,143.34|
|Bequests / in memoriam|2,742.50|
|Herts CC mileage|405.90|
|Gift Aid tax refunds|3,646.20|
|Bank Interest|4,646.36|
|Grants received|26,233.00|
|From RCT|3,000.00|
||**£72,817.30**|
|Minibus costs|3,790.70|
|Offce expenses|5,699.88|
|Subscriptions, Fees, & DBS|2,029.40|
|Public Liability Insurance
Offce Manager Fees|939.59
16,574.22|
|Miscellaneous costs|2,323.05|
|Scooter costs|2,572.10|
|Training expenses|1,141.80|
|Marketing expenses|1,365.88|
|IT expenses|1,090.19|
|Volunteer expenses|1,178.00|
|Grants made|13,563.55|
|Events & outings|2,271.90|
|Taxis|3,440.00|
|Provision from 2021-22 Debit 284|62.33|
||**£58,042.59**|
||**£14,774.71**|
_Subject to final approval by the Independent Examiner at the time of preparation of this Review._
## **SAFEGUARDING REPORT**
_Presented by_ _**Peta Gunson** – Vice Chair and Safeguarding Lead_
This financial year Redbourn Community Group has not referred any safeguarding concerns to Hertfordshire Adult Social Services. We have had potential concerns raised with us throughout the year, and we continue to monitor some of these and seek support when required.
We were fortunate to receive a training grant from Hertfordshire Community Foundation for Safeguarding training. Twelve volunteers attended the in-person training at the Parish Centre in November 2022 and a further eight completed online by zoom in February and September 2023. We thank everyone for their active participation. Our Adult Safeguarding Policy was updated in August 2023 which includes information about the types of abuse and guidelines for reporting. Click here for the updated policy.
Please continue to be vigilant about safeguarding issues and if you have any concerns, Please contact the Office at: **offce@redbourncg.org** .
The Safeguarding Policy and its application have been discussed and shared with all new volunteers during their induction, whether that was in person or virtually. All Office staff and those who support our remote working and call lines have been kept up to date with policy changes and other information as required.
We’ve applied and been successful at obtaining another training grant and have already planned two sessions for the coming financial year.
## Donations and Supporters
**We are extremely thankful to every single person who has donated this year, your support is critical ensuring the charity’s finances remain healthy.** Thanks also to those who contributed to the collection boxes at **The Cricketers** and **Hollybush Pubs, Crown Pharmacy, NISA, Redbourn Co-op** and **The Hub** . We are grateful to relatives, friends and families who donated collections from the funerals of **Connie Crawley, Brian Brasier, Brian Davies, Peter Fox, Rodney Hill, Brian Underwood** and **Michael Williamson.**
We are indebted to those groups and organisations who presented us with generous donations:
**Charities Trust, Costa Coffee, Friends of the High Street, Mothers Union, NFU Mutual, Peter Brown, Redbourn Emporium, Redbourn in Stitches, Redbourn U3A** and **St Albans Tour Guides.**
Massive thanks to the hardworking team who organise the **Redbourn Classics Motor Show** and **Village Fete** and to the many volunteers across the village who were involved in helping the event activities to run smoothly on the day. We are delighted to receive the donation from the event, the largest annual supporter of RCG. Thank you. We would like to convey an incredibly special thanks to **Redbourn Autos** for their invaluable Minibus Support Package.
We thank most sincerely those organisations who gave us grants to assist with provision of services and extra support: **Community Development Action Herts, Harlow Health Centres Trust, Hertfordshire Community Foundation, Hertfordshire County Council, Redbourn Co-op, Redbourn Parish Council and St Albans City & District Council.**
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Managing Health and Wellbeing
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_Thanks to Redbourn based_ _**Whiteing Design Partnership** for keeping prices to a minimum. The costs of both the design and printing of this 2023 Annual Review have been met by a donation given to cover this particular expenditure._
Redbourn Community Group
**Redbourn Community Group** Village Hall, High Street, Redbourn. AL3 7LW
**01582 794550 www.redbourncg.org info@redbourncg.org**
**Charity Number: 297955**
Redbourn Community Group
Registered Charity No. 297955
Income & Expenditure summary for the year ended 31 August 2023
Income
Donation5
Collettion boxe5
Bequests/ In Merr>orium
Hert5 County Council Mileage
GÉft Aid tax refunds
8ank Inteyest received
Redbourn PCC Grant
Other Grants
Minibu5 Operations Income
Donated by Rcr
31.528.81
614.53
405.90
3,646.20
4.646.36
E 000.00
21.233_GO
Totsl Income
72,817.30
Expenditure
Mlnibu5
Service/Repairs
Fuel
273.60
1.231.62
785.44
693.36
806.68
490.20
Insurance
Garage
Other
Telephone
General Office
Manager
Marketing expeftse5
Subscriptions & Fee5
Public Liability Insurance
Miscellaneous expense5
Scooter Purchase & Servicin8
Trainin8 expenses
IT Expenses
Personal expenses
Redbourn Village Hall- Capital Cost Contribution
Event5 & Outines
Taxis
Grants
Bank charges
3.1.70 .
Office
5.209.68
16.574.22
1.365.88.
1,941.40
22.274.10
? 385.28
1.141.80
1.094).19
1.107.S5
2,271.90
3,440 00 .
13.563.53
31.907.34
Total Expenditure
57,972.14
Net Surplus for year
14,845.16
Redbourn Community Group
Regsstered Charity No. 297955
Balance Sheet as at 31 August 2023
2022
Fixed Assets
Cost
De
Book ¥i>lue
0.00
O Garage
0.00 Elertric scooters141
0.00 Wheel chair$171
0.00 Walking Aids
0.00 Office fumrture & Equip_
0.00
350(
2(X).00
350.00
200.00
o.oa
0.00
0.00
i.(KX).00 I,0(j.00
Note I
0.00
Current Assets
87,639.98 HSBC 711293 Current alc
9,656.23 Santander 57b98300 Minibus alc
0.00 Santander ..............Emergency alc
138,773.40 COIF Dep051t alc
236.069.61
4.I,382.1 6
o_oo
209,5&2.vl
250,91n.77
Creditors
Coronavirus Grants Remaining Ava¥l3ble
236,069.61 Total Assets
?SO.914.77
Represented by=
Capital account
11 3,875.12 Balance blfwd I September 2022
122.194.49 Surplus of years
230,f69.61
14.845.16
236.069.61 Balano 31 August 2023
2iO.914.77
Note I
In accordance with CLfrrent accotjnting practice st ha5 been decided to
include Fixed Assets on the Balan Sheet either at cost where kr>ovJn
or at nominal value, with these a55WL5 be'.ng depreciated overtheir estimaie
sefvl life.
Accountant's reporL
We have reviewed the accompanying Balance Sheet of The Redbotjrn Community Group at 31st August 20-'
.3, and the
Income & ExpenditLsre Account for the year ended on tha4 date. These fi*ancial statements are the i espoDorium
Hert5 County Council Mileage
GÉft Aid tax refunds
8ank Inteyest received
Redbourn PCC Grant
Other Grants
Minibu5 Operations Income
Donated by Rcr
31.528.81
614.53
405.90
3,646.20
4.646.36
E 000.00
21.233_GO
Totsl Income
72,817.30
Expenditure
Mlnibu5
Service/Repairs
Fuel
273.60
1.231.62
785.44
693.36
806.68
490.20
Insurance
Garage
Other
Telephone
General Office
Manager
Marketing expeftse5
Subscriptions & Fee5
Public Liability Insurance
Miscellaneous expense5
Scooter Purchase & Servicin8
Trainin8 expenses
IT Expenses
Personal expenses
Redbourn Village Hall- Capital Cost Contribution
Event5 & Outines
Taxis
Grants
Bank charges
3.1.70 .
Office
5.209.68
16.574.22
1.365.88.
1,941.40
22.274.10
? 385.28
1.141.80
1.094).19
1.107.S5
2,271.90
3,440 00 .
13.563.53
31.907.34
Total Expenditure
57,972.14
Net Surplus for year
14,845.16
Redbourn Community Group
Regsstered Charity No. 297955
Balance Sheet as at 31 August 2023
2022
Fixed Assets
Cost
De
Book ¥i>lue
0.00
O Garage
0.00 Elertric scooters141
0.00 Wheel chair$171
0.00 Walking Aids
0.00 Office furniture & Equip_
0.00
350(
2(X).00
350.00
200.00
o.oa
0.00
0.00
i.(KX).00 i,O(M).00
Note I
0.00
Current Assets
87,639.98 HSBC 711293 Current alc
9,656.23 Santander 57b98300 Minibus alc
0.00 Santander ..............Emergency alc
138,773.40 COIF Dep051t alc
236.069.61
4.I,382.1 6
o_oo
209,5&2.vl
250,91n.77
Creditors
Coronavirus Grants Remaining Ava¥l3ble
236,069.61 Total Assets
?SO.914.77
Representecl by=
Capital account
11 3,875.12 Balance blfwd I September 2022
122.194.49 Surplus of years
230,f69.61
14.845.16
236.069.61 Balano 31 August 2023
2iO.914.77
Note I
In accordance with CLfrrent accotjnting practice st ha5 been decided to
include Fixed Assets on the Balan Sheet either at cost where kr>ovJn
or at nominal value, with these a55WL5 be'.ng depreciated overtheir estimaie
115efvl life.
Accountant's reporL
We have reviewed the accompanying Balance Sheet of The Redbotjrn Community Group at 31st August 20-'
.3, and the
Income & ExpenditLsre Account for the year ended on tha4 date. These fi*ancial statements are the i espoD