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2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2025

Published in June 2026

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Contents

Introduction 3
Chairman’s Report 4-5
Safeguarding Report 6
Fund Raisers Report 7
Operations Team Manager Report 8-9
Area Coordinators Reports – Warwick, Leamington and Kenilworth 10-14
Area Coordinators Reports – Stratford District 15-17
Area Coordinators Reports –Rugby, North Warwickshire, Nuneaton and Bedworth 18-21
Financial Statements & Audited Accounts 22-41

INTRODUCTION

This report reflects our achievements during 2025 and our plans for 2026, which is a very exciting year as it is our 40[th] anniversary of becoming a charity.

Our thanks go to the many volunteers, employees, funders, and supporters for helping children over the last 12 months, enabling them to have some much-needed fun, aiding their personal development, confidence, and improving their self-esteem, and in particular coping with their new challenges.

Additionally, I would like to thank the contributors to this report which helps give an insight into the work undertaken by members of our Operations team, fellow trustees, plus importantly some case studies to help show the impact and difference that we and more importantly our volunteers are making.

The overall purpose of the Friendship Project is to improve the social and emotional well-being of children, aged 6-16, disadvantaged by virtue of their own or family circumstances. An Older Friend provides experiences lacking in the child's life, builds a trusting relationship and raises the self-esteem of their Younger Friend. Volunteers, over the age of 18, are drawn from Warwickshire communities and come from all walks of life. They are carefully vetted as to their suitability, including enhanced DBS checks.

Volunteers meet with their Younger Friends weekly for between 2-3 hours to be involved in mutually enjoyable and jointly planned activities and visits. Examples include playing in the park, building dens, craft activities, cooking, fishing, bird watching, climbing, golf, sewing, library, swimming, cinema, growing vegetables etc., which their school contemporaries frequently take for granted.

Volunteers maintain that the 1:1 attention, with the capacity for the child to talk to a listening adult, is the most valuable aspect of the activity. Such activities are at the heart of what the Project does.

The average length of a friendship is 3 years and over time the Younger Friend gradually becomes more open and confident in discussing worries and concerns about family, school, friends and themselves. Older Friends offer support and, increasingly, guidance on more sensitive and personal issues. This has helped Younger Friends gain a better understanding of their problems; develop better relationships with family members; and cope more positively with challenging situations at school.

Positive feedback and encouragement, invariably missing in the child's life, is a constant feature of the weekly activities and of major importance in raising self-esteem. This usually results in the young people developing new enjoyable interests and acquiring a wider range of skills, in a safe environment.

Volunteers enjoy the company of their Younger Friends and going to places they would not otherwise go to. They enjoy providing new experiences and knowing they are a trusted confidante but, above all, they gain satisfaction from seeing their Younger Friend develop socially and personally.

One-to-one befriending carries a potential risk in relation to child protection. Safeguarding procedures, in relation to recruitment, vetting, briefing, training and supervision of volunteers are given the highest priority and kept under constant review with Children's Services. The Friendship Project is an Associate Member of the Warwickshire Safeguarding Children's Board and an Assistant Head of Children’s Service acts as an Advisor to our Trustees, and regular meetings are held with our safeguarding team.

There is quality research available advising that the importance of early intervention in childhood has been seen to help both mental and physical health outcomes in later life, making our contribution in this area extremely valuable. Plus, our early intervention helps prevent the younger person from being drawn into inadvisable activities, or potentially criminal county lines, or indeed could be led into and encouraged to participate in anti-social behaviors to fit in with peers. Our work helps avoid these problems.

We hope that you find this report of interest, and for further information please visit our website: www.friendshipproject.co.uk Please also follow us on: – @friendshipproj on Instagram or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheFriendshipProjectForChildren

CHAIRMANS REPORT

Welcome to our Annual Report prepared in our 40[th] anniversary year, which is a tremendous achievement, and a tribute to the dedication of our volunteers, operations team, and trustees since May 1986. This would not have been possible without the support of our funders, and those that have raised money for us over the years. I hope you enjoy reading some brilliant case studies providing an active illustration of the valuable work the Friendship Project for Children delivers to communities across Warwickshire. We are celebrating this momentous anniversary on 20[th] June courtesy of the Charlecote Pheasant Hotel, with assistance from Shakespeare Soroptimists, from 3pm until 5pm, with BBQ, and fun activities taking place, and we would be delighted if as many of both our current volunteers, and supporters are able to join us on the day. Please contact karen.hoy@friendshipproject.co.uk to confirm your attendance, and we would be delighted if you brought friends and family with you.

The financial climate continues to be tough across the sector, and we are not immune to this needing to use some of our reserves for operational costs. The economic landscape looks to continue to be challenging with the war in Ukraine, and now unsettled situation in the middle east too. Post COVID, with home working still prevailing, there continues to have been a slower involvement of corporate entities in the sector, which has contributed to more charities making grant applications. Our success rate was circa 50% for grant applications, now the industry average is between 1 in 6 and 1 in 8, and our efforts mirror this in percentage of successful applications. This is at a time when we are seeing an increase in the numbers of referrals and need for our service, and costs. To counter this, we have increased our social media presence, and networking, and are widening our fund-raising approach, as well as engaging at grass root level in the community too, with other organisations too.

Volunteer recruitment continues to be a challenge, and if you know of anyone who might be interested then we would be delighted to talk to them, or indeed organisations who would like a speaker, or to link up with us as their charity of the year.

We have successfully recruited some great new trustees to the board in the last 12 months, with a new Honorary Secretary, Rachel Hodge, and Cheryl Jackson, as Hon Treasurer Designate, who will be confirmed as Hon Treasurer at our AGM, plus James Cheetham has been co-opted, and will be joining the board as Trustee with lead for marketing. Pat Miller has stood down as our Older Friends Volunteer representative and Mary Keane, a long-standing Older Friend volunteer, has recently been appointed to the trustee board to replace her. Our grateful thanks to Pat Miller for her assistance, also to Ken Smith who is our retiring honorary treasurer, for his 7 years’ service, and contribution to maintaining control and input in relation to our finances, so as to support the valuable work we do. We are still actively seeking a lead trustee for QA and Compliance, and if you know of anyone who may be interested, then please let me know. The board meet quarterly split between face to face and online meetings, plus the AGM.

Our financial statement gives details of the highlights of what we have achieved in the last 12 months. Going forward we hope to be able to reduce our waiting lists, recruitment of additional volunteers, supported by funding to meet the known need.

On a personal level I am extremely honoured after over 40 years with Friendship Project, having been involved with the initial pilot project before the charity was formed, to see our continued success, and the brilliant testimonials we have received over the years of the fantastic difference we have been able to make to vulnerable young people’s lives. I am extremely honoured that in March 2027 I will take up the post of High Sheriff of Warwickshire. It is a considerable time commitment with estimated around 300 plus engagements, to promote both people who dedicate their lives in the services and volunteering in the community. I am pleased to announce that Nishi Mehta has agreed to be Vice-Chairman of the Friendship Project from both a succession perspective and to spread the workload in what I know will be a very busy year.

Please do take the opportunity to read our annual newsletter, published in May 2026. It contains some brilliant case studies, plus gives a fantastic overview of the past year’s activities. We can arrange to let you have a hardcopy or view it online at www.friendshippproject.co.uk in the news section.

I would just like to end by sincerely thanking all our supporters, funders, volunteers, Operations team, and trustees without your valuable collective contribution we would not be able to help the children referred to us.

Cheryll Rawbone, FRSA, Chairman Email cheryll.rawbone@friendshipproject.co.uk

Safeguarding Report 2025/26 Esther Jones - Safeguarding Trustee esther.jones@friendshipproject.co.uk

Fundraising Report 2025/26 Richard Barrett – Fundraising Trustee Richard.barrett@friendshipproject.co.uk

It has been pleasing to see our total income grow in 2025/26 due to an exceptional year for fundraising, culminating in the collections at the Peter Pan Pantomime at the Royal Spa Centre in Leamington raising in excess of £13,000. We are most grateful to have been the chosen charity for the pantomime and for all who supported us with their donations and helped with bucket collections after the performances.

We are also extremely grateful to all our grant funders, corporate and individual donors and those who supported us in 2025 through grants and a range of large and small donations. We would also like to thank our cash and QR code donors where the details of the donor are not always known.

 Mr & Mrs D E Owen

Like all charities, The Friendship Project relies on donations from the general public for a significant amount of its income. If you can spare even just a pound or two, or perhaps help to organise a fundraising event to help towards our valuable contribution to society, then please do feel free to contact me.

There are several methods by which you can donate to us, listed below, with further details on our website.

Other methods to donate are:

Operations Report 2025/26 Ruth Blunt – Operations Team Leader ruth.blunt@friendshipproject.co.uk

General

On 12th May 2026, we celebrated the official 40th Anniversary of The Friendship Project for Children. We will be celebrating this important milestone with a Fun Day at The Charlecote Pheasant on 20th June 2026. There will be a BBQ, stalls, games and activities. Everyone involved in The Friendship Project, both past and present, is invited to join in the celebrations.

In December 2025 and January 2026, The Friendship Project was the chosen charity for the panto, Peter Pan, at the Royal Spa Centre in Leamington. We had approximately 80 volunteers covering 39 shows over a period of 4 weeks and we raised an incredible £13,741.41. Thank you to everyone who took the time to collect money after the shows but special thanks to Area Coordinator, Fiona Roche, for organising and coordinating everything and making sure it all ran smoothly. We are so grateful to the Royal Spa Centre for choosing us as their chosen charity and we are hopeful that they will choose us again in the future.

The Charity Fun Day organised by Area Coordinator, Kate Meek, and two of her volunteers took place on 20th September and was a great success. Despite the event having to be rescheduled because of a heatwave in July and then rain on the day, we still raised an amazing £2407.07. Thank you to everyone in the Operations Team, trustees Pat Miller, Esther Jones and Cheryll Rawbone and all the family and friends who turned up on the day to help.

We are currently down on volunteer numbers, especially in North Warwickshire. This is for a number of reasons including Younger Friends turning 17, Older Friends relocating, Older Friend health issues and Younger Friends reporting that they feel they no longer need an Older Friend. In order to try and boost volunteer numbers, we have attended recruitment and networking events; visited local businesses with posters and leaflets, shared regular posts on social media and used volunteer sites such as the Royal Voluntary Service and Reach Volunteering.

We have an ever-growing waiting list of children and young people needing our support but we don’t currently have enough volunteers to meet the demand. The majority of our friendships are wellestablished and continue to run smoothly. Our volunteers do an amazing job and they are very well supported by the Group Supporters and the Area Coordinators. The feedback we continue to receive is that giving the young person some quality time away from sometimes difficult home situations, really does improve their confidence and self-esteem. It is also hugely rewarding for our volunteers, knowing that they are having a positive influence and making a difference to a child’s life. We always need more volunteers and so we would be grateful for any support from individuals or organisations in helping to promote the Friendship Project and the work that we do.

As a number of our Younger Friends have been diagnosed with autism, all members of the Operations Team have completed an online Autism Awareness course. We are happy to share the course details with any Older Friends who are interested in learning more about autism.

I would like to thank the Trustees for their ongoing help and support for the Operations Team - on a day-to-day basis and beyond. We also extend our thanks to our Chairman, Cheryll Rawbone, who is always on hand to answer any questions and give us her unwavering support.

I would like to thank everyone in the Operations Team for their continued hard work and dedication. Finally, I would like to thank our wonderful volunteers and Group Supporters as without them, we couldn’t do the amazing work that we do.

Current Friendships

Warwick and District – 29 Stratford and District – 17 Rugby, Nuneaton, Bedworth, North Warwickshire - 20 We also have several volunteers currently going through the interview / matching process

Events

12/7/25 – Alpaca Walking 20/9/25 - Charity Fun Day (rescheduled from July) 27/9/25 – Craft Event 27/11/25 – Christmas Light Trail at Warwick Castle 5/3/26 – Dinner and music with saxophonist Julian Smith (Soroptimists) 21/3/26 – Tennis event at Leamington Law Tennis Club 16-17/4 – Fashion Show (Bodies and Co) 13/6/26 – Hatton Country World event 20/6/26 – 40th Anniversary Fun Day – Charlecote Pheasant

Marketing and Social Media

We continue to have regular updates on our Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram pages. We are also looking into joining TikTok. Everyone can support us by following, liking and sharing our posts so that we continue to reach a wider audience online.

AGM Report 2025/26 Fiona Roche – Area Coordinator for Warwick District Fiona.roche@friendshipproject.co.uk

Older Friends: 29 Younger Friends: 30 Pipeline: 7

In General

The first half of the year was relatively quiet, but the second half became incredibly busy. I have been interviewing and matching new volunteers with Younger Friends as quickly as possible.

Since the last AGM, I have matched 15 Older Friends, although 10 friendships have also ended during that time. Encouragingly, many wonderful new friendships have been formed and are progressing extremely well.

I have also been delighted to welcome seven new male Older Friends, meaning around one third of my volunteers are now male.

Events attended

Loss of Older Friend John Holroyde

We received the very sad news in October that John had died suddenly. John had been an exceptional volunteer and a wonderful friend to C for more than five and a half years.

He was a gentle, kind and highly respected member of The Friendship Project who quietly dedicated himself to supporting C. John always attended events with a smile and provided exactly the calm, nonjudgemental support that C needed.

C always looked forward to seeing John. They enjoyed football, cricket, tennis, golf and cycling together — including one memorable occasion when John fell into the canal!

C described John as a “good guy” who helped him feel calm, especially on difficult days. His mum shared how much John meant to the family, describing him as being “like a grandfather” to C and a constant positive presence in his life.

Only last summer, John spoke about how enduring and meaningful his friendship with C had become. Donations from John’s funeral were kindly given to The Friendship Project. In addition, The Warwickshire Golf Club, where the wake was held, has chosen us as their Charity of the Year and will be fundraising in his memory.

Chosen charity for Peter Pan Panto

I was contacted by the Royal Spa Centre in Leamington to ask whether The Friendship Project would like to become the chosen charity for the Peter Pan pantomime.

This involved providing four collection volunteers for each of the 39 performances. After discussing the opportunity as a team, we agreed it would be an excellent way to raise both awareness and funds for the charity.

We took part in photo shoots, press releases and promotional activity throughout the pantomime season, which greatly increased our visibility during December. Approximately 80 volunteers supported the collections, and together we raised an incredible £13,741.41. For a charity of our size, this was an outstanding achievement.

We are hugely grateful to every volunteer, supporter and member of staff who contributed, as well as to the Royal Spa Centre for selecting us.

As an added bonus, one audience member has since become an Older Friend, and the owner of Dark Warwick has offered free guided walks for our groups.

2nd Cream Teas at The Old Bakehouse

I organised my second charity Cream Teas event during the first weekend of July. Although the weather on the second day was extremely wet, we still welcomed around 90 visitors and raised £518. Rodda’s Cream generously sponsored the event by donating all the jam and clotted cream. Thank you to everyone who helped and supported the weekend.

Influx of volunteers

The number of volunteer applications over the past six months has been remarkable. Fourteen new Older Friends have either been interviewed or are currently going through the process. Many applicants have found us through Google searches while looking for volunteering opportunities, which has been very encouraging.

Summary

Overall, it has been an extremely positive year. The highlight was undoubtedly our involvement with the Peter Pan Panto at Christmas.

I feel very honoured to still be part of the charity as we celebrate its 40th year, while I approach the completion of my own 13th year with The Friendship Project.

Case study 1

I first heard about The Friendship Project more than ten years ago. It sounded like a wonderful organisation, but I did not have enough free time to commit until a couple of years ago, when I was finally matched with F — a little whirlwind of energy and curiosity.

We met at her school just before her sixth birthday and immediately bonded over our shared love of cheese, dogs and swimming.

Our first outing was a walk around Warwick, a visit to the museum and lunch at a café. Although F was initially shy, she was excited to see me again the following week, which felt like a very positive start. One memorable summer day at St Nicholas Park, F unexpectedly decided to fully immerse herself in the paddling pool — clothes and all — pretending to swim for twenty minutes. With no towel available, an old picnic blanket and the car heater came to the rescue. Thankfully, her mum Amy saw the funny side, and we arranged a proper swimming trip the following week.

Over the last 18 months, we have enjoyed visits to Hatton Farm Park, den building at Ryton Pools, swimming trips, parks, galleries and games cafés.

F is full of energy, curiosity and humour. She has grown enormously in confidence, social skills and willingness to try new experiences, from Clip ‘n Climb to AirHop.

We have also attended Friendship Project events together, including craft sessions, Warwick Castle Christmas lights and the recent tennis event.

F occasionally visits my home to spend time with the dogs, play in the garden, bake or do crafts. She was initially shy around my family but is now full of confidence and laughter with all of us. Being part of F’s life has been a true privilege, and we are both looking forward to many more adventures together.

Case Study 2

Our friendship began in December 2018 when A was just 9 years old.

Incredibly, this year he turns 17 - motorists watch out! And, as The Friendship Project works with children aged 6–16, our formal friendship within The Project must soon end.

Somewhere along the way, the A I first knew as a child has gradually grown into a very personable young man. He’s now taller than me – height marks drawn on the wall over the years have tracked his progress and now remain as infallible evidence. But what a privilege to have shared in these incredibly important years of his life.

I wonder how many times we’ve met over these seven and a half years. Some days were exciting, others more ordinary - but that’s how friendships are built: showing up, spending time together, having fun and – well, just being present. Along the way we’ve collected plenty of memories, stories and photographs from our shared adventures.

Football is A’s world – his absolute passion. If that were the measure of what he needed, then having me as his Older Friend was probably a big mistake – I’m pretty clueless on that front. But thankfully, that never seems to have mattered.

Friendships must be mutual, and some naturally come to an end before a child turns 17 – and that’s fine and often as it should be. Our friendship seems to have strengthened over time, and these days A feels more like extended family. He’ll always be welcome in our home. Perhaps we’ll remain friends for years to come – I’d really value that.

Recently, after a game of pool and a McDonald’s, I asked A a few questions about our friendship. Here’s how it went:

Do you think being in The Friendship Project has helped you?

A : “Yes, but it’s difficult to explain exactly how. It’s been a long friendship - I was much younger at the start, but it’s given me space and something to look forward to.”

Best bits, worst bits?

A : “Beating you at badminton.”

( Tim : I take it that’s a best bit for you - definitely a worst bit for me!)

A : “Our day trip to the Isle of Wight.”

( Tim : Absolutely. A one-off to mark your 16th birthday.)

A : “Accidentally attracting every dog in St Nicks Park when we cooked bacon on your camping stove – that was funny.”

( Tim : Who knew dogs could smell so far - that was a bit tricky!)

A : “Today might be a worst bit – losing 5–0 to you at pool.”

( Tim : I’m counting that as one of my best bits.)

A : “And the very first time we met, when I bounced a basketball into my own face and made my lip bleed.”

( Tim : I remember - not the best start!)

What have you most enjoyed?

A : “Getting out, bowling, arcade games, cooking brownies…”

( Tim : the kitchen took a while to recover from the brownies.)

A : “Playing badminton, the height chart… and really just each time we meet.”

Any advice for a new Younger Friend joining The Friendship Project?

A : “Do it! At least try, and give it time…”

( Tim : I’d say the same to anyone thinking about becoming an Older Friend.)

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AGM Report 2025/26 Harriet Crawford – Area Coordinator for Stratford, Alcester and Shipston

Harriet.crawford@friendshipproject.co.uk

Older Friends: 17 Younger Friends: 17

In General

I have been an Area Coordinator for three years and continue to really enjoy my role in recruiting, matching and supporting friendships across the Stratford area.

Recruitment has been quieter this year. Although I received several applications, some applicants were unfortunately unsuitable, while others withdrew after initially expressing interest.

I feel very fortunate to work within such a supportive team. I am especially grateful for the support I received over the summer when my daughter Florence underwent her third open-heart surgery. The team’s kindness and support allowed me to focus fully on being with her during that difficult time, and I am incredibly thankful to everyone.

Events attended

Friendships

All friendships have progressed positively this year. Our volunteers continue to provide Younger Friends with a wide variety of activities, experiences and support.

I particularly enjoy reading the feedback from home safeguarding visits and hearing the lovely comments families make about their child’s Older Friend. It really highlights the difference these friendships and outings make to children’s lives.

There have been some safeguarding issues during the year, all of which were dealt with promptly and appropriately. Written reports were completed, and the correct procedures were followed with support from the team and trustee Esther.

Friendships Ended

Summary

Overall, the last 12 months have been very positive. The support from the team, alongside the dedication and care shown by our Older Friends, has been outstanding.

Over the next year I hope to recruit more volunteers within the Stratford region so we can support even more children. I have built strong relationships with both primary and secondary schools across Stratford and hope to continue developing these partnerships collaboratively.

Case study 1

Life felt a little quieter once my children left home and I stopped volunteering at a local primary school. When I saw an advert for The Friendship Project, I thought it sounded like a wonderful opportunity to bring some fun into my life while giving a child new experiences.

I met A a year ago and we immediately began enjoying all sorts of activities together. We started with park visits, dog walks and puddle jumping — something A enjoys much more than I do! We also feed the hens, spend time outdoors and particularly enjoy visiting the deer at Charlecote Park, usually followed by cake or ice cream.

A now often asks for “the longest way back to the car” so we can spend more time together. We have baked cakes and biscuits, attempted crafts with plenty of laughter, knitted together and even made a scarf for one of her teddies. On rainy days we enjoy Saturday morning cinema trips. She has become very confident using the bread maker, and I’m told our cheese and bacon flatbreads are “almost as good as McDonald’s” — which I consider very high praise!

We have also loved attending Friendship Project events together. The tennis event stretched my own skills, and we both enjoyed the Alpaca Farm visit, especially our particularly stubborn alpaca. A New Year trip to see The BFG at the RSC was another real highlight.

Recently, we completed a scrapbook documenting our first year together. It was lovely to look back on all the memories and outings we have shared.

We are both looking forward to many more adventures together in the years ahead.

Case Study 2

Since retiring, I have enjoyed taking part in a variety of volunteer activities as a way of giving something back after many years in a fulfilling career.

During our first outings together, we focused mainly on activities J already enjoyed, such as bowling, climbing, cinema trips and ice skating. Over time, we began introducing more educational and varied experiences, including visits to the library, the MAD Museum, the AVRO Vulcan bomber, the British Motor Museum and Friendship Project events.

We have shared many memorable experiences together, although I suspect J will remember Go Ape and Alton Towers more than anything else! He had been progressing really well with ice skating until one painful fall temporarily put him off.

As our first anniversary approached, I reflected on our friendship and whether I was making a meaningful difference. The support from The Friendship Project staff throughout that first year was invaluable, through organised events, advice and ongoing encouragement.

As we entered our second year together, I contacted around 20 businesses to explain my role as an Older Friend and to raise awareness of the charity. While most did not respond, three organisations were very supportive and offered assistance.

Over time I have developed a better understanding of J’s family circumstances and have built a positive relationship with his mum through regular conversations when collecting and dropping him off. We spend time encouraging healthy habits, exercise, baking, cycling and resilience. J particularly enjoys drama and has performed in both school productions and the Scouts Gang Show in Leamington. After one of his performances, I took him to Alton Towers to celebrate his achievements. During that trip, I realised just how much our friendship had grown over the previous 14 months.

When I first joined The Friendship Project, I hoped I might make even a small positive difference to a child’s life. I truly feel that is happening, and I look forward to many more experiences together in the future.

Photos 17-

AGM Report 2025/26 Kate Meek – Area Coordinator for Rugby, The North, Nuneaton and Bedworth Kate.meek@friendshipproject.co.uk

Older Friends: 20 Younger Friends: 22 Pipeline: 3

In General

I have thoroughly enjoyed the past year working within The Friendship Project. One of my Group Supporters, Judy, continues to do an amazing job supporting me by attending events and helping to distribute posters to shops, offices, libraries and businesses on industrial estates.

I continue to coordinate both North Warwickshire and Rugby, a role that has now effectively merged into one. This arrangement is working very well, and I have developed strong relationships with the Rugby friendships. I am also supported by two other Group Supporters, Kelly and Kay, who both do an excellent job supporting their Older Friends.

Over the past year, several friendships in the North have unfortunately come to an end, resulting in a reduction in volunteer numbers. This has primarily been due to volunteers relocating or changes in personal and family circumstances affecting their ability to continue. Recruitment efforts are ongoing through a variety of approaches, although wider socioeconomic challenges in the area continue to make this difficult.

Following a course I attended last year, Warwickshire Young Carers and I have started supporting one another by signposting suitable volunteers between our organisations. They also kindly printed several hundred free A5 leaflets featuring The Friendship Project on one side and Young Carers on the other, which I am currently distributing to local shops and healthcare providers.

Last year I organised a very successful outing with Hargreaves Narrowboat Trust, and as a result I am arranging two more trips this year, both of which are already fully booked.

I also organised a free tour of the Coventry Building Society Arena, including Coventry City Football Club. This was another great success, and our Younger Friends are still talking about it, especially following the club’s promotion success.

Events attended

Marketing

I continue to work hard to recruit more volunteers, particularly in the North. I have attended as many events as possible and regularly visit shops, banks, offices and community venues to promote The

Friendship Project and distribute leaflets. I also advertise volunteer opportunities on my social media channels and share our official posts across local community groups.

For the Autumn, I have a couple of opportunities in development with Atherstone and Nuneaton Football Club following contacts made at a WCAVA (Warwickshire & Solihull Community and Voluntary Action) event. In addition, a local singing group has approached me about choosing The Friendship Project as their charity for a concert later this year, which would provide both fundraising and publicity opportunities.

I also have contact with Five Star Theatre Group, who run several productions throughout the year. They have kindly offered free tickets to some of our Older and Younger Friends and are considering featuring our poster in one of their programmes at a reduced fee.

Training

This year I completed several courses. In June, I attended an online Canva course. In December, I attended an in-person course to learn more about Warwickshire Young Carers and was delighted to have my photograph featured on the front of their training pack.

I also completed the Autism course recommended by Ruth Blunt. Drawing on both the course and my previous experience, I have drafted some guidance that may be useful to share with Older Friends who would benefit from a greater understanding of autism.

Fundraising

The first half of last year focused heavily on organising the Farm Event, originally planned for July. Due to extreme heat, it had to be postponed until 20th September, when unfortunately the weather was very wet and windy. Despite this, we successfully raised £2,539.

Most of the funds came from a raffle, for which I obtained a licence allowing tickets to be sold in advance, as well as from the dog show. There were also a variety of craft, cake and food stalls that contributed to the total.

A friend who works for Idverde asked to borrow our tombola for a Christmas event. Although they ultimately did not use it, the company generously donated £250 to us.

I also received donations from the two WI presentations I delivered, and our Group Supporter Kay raised an additional £100 through Bulkington WI.

Friendships

I have developed strong relationships with my Older Friends. While I speak with some more frequently than others, I have now met almost all of them. The only exceptions are a couple who have been with us for some time and are supported by another Group Supporter, although I still speak with them occasionally.

We have some wonderful friendships, and I would like to share two case studies.

Case study 1

Juliette is a lovely lady with a busy life that includes family, work and church commitments. Despite this, she wanted to become involved with The Friendship Project to help a child experience more fun and enjoyment in life.

The match has been incredibly positive. Mum regularly shares how excited F becomes for their outings together, and the pair clearly enjoy each other’s company.

Juliette shared the following about her experience:

“I started meeting up with F about 18 months ago. She appeared outwardly confident but inwardly was quite different. Keeping friends was a challenge for her, and school were considering an autism assessment.

We clicked straight away. I’m naturally quite introverted, but with F around there’s no chance of that! She’s a real chatterbox and often starts sentences with, ‘Juliette, can I tell you something?’ We’ve been on all sorts of outings and there’s usually a ‘Come on, let’s run!’ from F, which I somehow always end up doing!

F says she enjoys our time together because it feels calm. Her home life is busy, with siblings and lots of pets, so if I can provide a little calmness for her then I feel I’ve done my job.

She has also become more confident socially. I’ve encouraged her to attend Friendship Project events and to order her own food and drinks when we’re out, and she’s becoming much braver. I’m so pleased I decided to become an Older Friend and to be matched with F.”

Case Study 2

Mary has developed a wonderful friendship with A. When A’s brother, M, needed a new Older Friend due to a change in circumstances, Mary kindly offered to support him as well. After discussions with the family and A, it was agreed that this would work well for everyone involved.

Mary now enjoys spending time with both children, sometimes together and sometimes individually depending on the activity.

Mary has also joined the Trustee team as an Older Friend Representative, beginning her role in May. I believe she will be an excellent addition.

Mary shared the following about her experience:

“I have been volunteering with The Friendship Project since 2022 after learning about the charity through social media. My background includes work in nurseries, schools and community support. After completing the training and checks, I met A at her school. She was a quiet girl with a lovely smile. Our first outing was to a horse stable where she tried a mechanical horse and left wanting a horse of her own!

Since then we’ve enjoyed many outings together, including Cadbury World and church visits. A’s confidence has grown enormously, and I’m proud to have supported that growth.

Five months ago, I also became an Older Friend to A’s brother, M. At first it felt unfamiliar planning activities for a boy after years of ‘girly’ outings with A, but we’ve found lots of things he enjoys.

We visited Coventry Transport Museum and Drayton Manor, where M loved the thrill rides much more than I did!

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the past four years and look forward to seeing both children continue to thrive in the future.”

Photos

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The Friendship Project

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 517684

Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Contents

Trustees’ annual report

Independent examiner’s report

Statement of financial activities

Balance sheet

Notes to the accounts

The Friendship Project

Trustees’ Annual Report

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Full Name: The Friendship Project Other names: The Friendship Project for Children Registered charity number: 517684 Principal address: Myton Park, Myton Lane, Warwick, CV34 6PX Trustees: Cheryll Rawbone, Chairperson Ken Smith, Honorary Treasurer Rachel Hodge, Honorary Secretary, appointed 11.02.2026 Jon Gibbons, Honorary Secretary, resigned 19.05.2025 Chris Buck Richard Barrett Esther Jones Patricia Miller Ashima Rani Chander Nishi Mehta Cheryl Jackson, appointed 11.02.2026 Honorary Treasurer: Ken Smith Honorary Secretary: Position vacant as of 31st December 2025, new Hon secretary appointed 11the February 2026

Bankers:

Lloyds TSB, Stratford upon Avon

Independent examiner: Paula Wilson, 56 Hickman Road,

Galley Common, Nuneaton, CV10 9NQ

Governance & management

The charity is operated under the rules of its constitution adopted 12th May 1986 as amended 7th September 1993, 6th March 1995 and 11th May 2005.

Overall management of the charity is the responsibility of the trustees who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the constitution. Day to day management is carried out by paid staff and/or volunteers.

The Friendship Project

Trustees’ annual report (continued)

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Aims and objectives

To provide facilities for the social and physical training of children particularly disadvantaged children between the ages of 6 and 16 years who by reason of their social circumstances are in need of developing social skills by such means as the project thinks fit including the organisation of contacts between such children and reliable older persons able to help them develop such skills.

Summary of the main activities undertaken for the public benefit

With developing confidence and enhanced self-esteem, gained from the friendships, the young people are more prepared to develop new interests and achieve a wider range of skills. They grow personally and socially enabling them to forge better relationships with peers and family members. Generally, they are more settled at school but, above all, they develop a greater sense of self-worth. This is priceless and will have a positive impact on every aspect of their lives.

Summary of the main achievements during the period

£23,814 in 2024 to £22,109 in 2025. There was a reduction of volunteers matched of 32 during the year, and only 18 new volunteers.

The Friendship Project

Trustees’ annual report (continued)

for the year ended 31 December 2025

Financial Review

The charity made an overall surplus of £17,615 in the year, whilst this is welcome, it should be taken with the backdrop of grants which came in early 2025, instead of being paid end of 2024, plus we had the one off donations from Leamington Panto collection, which amounted to over £13,000. This helped our reserves increase to £49,682 end 2025 from £32,067 in 2024. Though with some grants not due until later in 2026, this cushion will be used in the early part of the new year. The funding climate remains tight, and significant work is undertaken to meet the need.

We are still keeping our funding support under review. Given the challenges in the sector with bids typically being successful in 1 in 6 to 1 in 8 ratios. This makes it much more difficult to obtain funding, and our net has had to be widened, whilst at the same time keeping our costs under review.

The Trustees have reviewed the financial position of the charity in light of the current economic environment and the forecast costs of its operations and fund raising. They believe that with the funding commitments made and plans for 2026, the charity has the necessary funding to continue providing its services for at least the next 12 months. The trustees review this at each of their quarterly meetings.

The charity’s policy on reserves

In line with the guidance provided by the Charities Commission, the Friendship Project has reviewed and revised its policy on the holding of financial reserves.

Most of our monthly expenditure relates to the salaries and expenses of our staff and the expenses of our Older Friends.

As our income varies considerably month by month it is important that in order to provide continuity of support for our Younger Friends that we have sufficient financial resources in place for the timely and regular payment of salaries and expenses.

In order to ensure our ability to achieve this, the trustees believe that it is essential to hold financial reserves, including restricted funds, of a minimum of three/four months forecast expenditure. A proportion of these funds are held in an interest earning deposit account.

This policy will be monitored and reviewed annually.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees:

Signed Date 27[th] May 2026

Cheryll Rawbone, Chairman

Independent Examiners Report to the Trustees of

The Friendship Project

Year Ended 31 December 2025

I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2025, as set out on pages 32-41.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

  1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect, the requirements:

  2. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; and

  3. 30 -

  4. to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act

have not been met; or

  1. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed:

Date: 27 May 2026

Paula Wilson, MAAT

The Friendship Project

Statement of Financial Activities

For the year ended 31 December 2025

Expenditure is allocated between Unrestricted and Restricted funds on the basis of actual expenditure incurred along with an element of judgement on indirect items of expenditure.

The Friendship Project

Balance Sheet

For the year ended 31 December 2025

The trustees declare that they have approved the accounts above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees:

Signed:

Date: 27[th] May 2026

Cheryll Rawbone, Chairperson

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2025

1. Accounting policies

These financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these accounts and with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 and with the Charities Act 2011.

Incoming Resources

All material incoming resources have been included on a receivable basis – i.e. they are included if the date receivable falls within the period covered by these accounts.

Resources expended

These have been analysed using a natural classification.

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2025

2. Grants

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

3. Donations

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

4. Fundraising Events

5. Debtors

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

6. Creditors

7. Movements in Funds

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

8. Staff costs and numbers

No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000.

The average weekly number of part time employees during the year was 6 (2024: 8)

9. Other expenditure

10. Trustees’ remuneration, benefits and expenses

During the accounting period, the charity obtained insurance cover including Public Liability, Employer’s Liability, All Risks for Assets, Personal Accident for volunteers and younger friends and Trustee Indemnity Insurance for a total of £4,224

The management committee and other trustees did not receive any remuneration during the year (2024: nil).

11. Independent examination and accountancy services

During the period, the cost of the examination and accountancy services was £350.

The Friendship Project

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2025

12. Controlling parties

The charity is under the control of the management committee.

13. Glossary of terms

Restricted funds: These are funds given to the charity, subject to specific restrictions set by the donor, but still within the general objects of the charity. Debtors: These are amounts owed to the charity, but not paid during the accounting period. Creditors: These are amounts owed by the charity, but not paid during the accounting period.