GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 The Trustees have pleasure in presents'ng their annual port and financial statements for the year ended 31 May 2024. Introduction About Us The Girls, Brigade Nl Ltd is a Christian, intemational and interdenominational organisation. There are 269 GB companies in Northern Ireland with a total of 18.473 members. made up of 15.161 gids. 2.123 Officers. 387 SUofficers and 802 Associate Leaders. GBNI employs 14 staff based al GB Headquarters IGBHQ) in Antrim. Work carried out at GBHQ includes.. Design and implementation of the leadership training Pfogfamme; Production of programme SourCeS for leaders,. Annual Scripture Course.. Implementation and maintenance of 1cleS= Safeguarding, Health and safety- Marketing and communication Maintenance of the GBNI websrle; Produdion of GB leadets, newsletter5.' and PR and marketing Servi$. OurAim The Aim of Girls, Brigade, being a Christian organisation. international and interdenorninational. shall be= To help gids lo become followers of the Lord Jesus Chrisl. and through self-control, VerenCe and a sense of sponsibility, to find true enrichment of lrfe. Ourwision Girfs, Brigade Northem Ireland will be recognised as a (tynamic. relevant. Christ-cerrtred organisation effectively reaching out to all gids to value, nurture and equip them for lrfe. Our Motto 'Seek, Serve and Follow Christ,. The Tnjstees have the pleasure of pSentIng their annual rerM)rt and financial statements for the year ended 31 May 2024. Introduction GBNI is a Christian. intemational. interdenominational. unrfomled organisation. The Vision for Gids, Brigade Northem Ireland is that it will be recognised as a dynamic, relevant. Christ-centred organisalion, effectively reaching out to all girts to value, nurture and equip them for lrfe. Legal Status GBNI is registered as a company limited by guarantee in Northem Ireland Nvmbef N1058531, registered with the Charity Commission for Northem Ireland NIC100405 and as a charity for tsx purposes by HMRC Reference No. N100689 and VAT Registration No 254684143.
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 Members of the Board of Trustees Members of the Board, who are D1ClorS for the purpose of company law and Trustees for the purpose of charity law, who served during the year and up to the date of this report are set out on page 19. In accordan with company law, as the charity's directors, we certify that: As far as we a aware, there is no relevant audit infomialion on whith the charity's audtlors are unaware of., and We have taken all the steps, that we OLJght lo have taken. in order to make ourselves aware of any relevant audit infomiation and to establish that the charity's auditors are aware of that infomats'on. Trustoes, Rosponsibilities Company law requires the Trustees to prepare finanaal statements for each finanaal year, which provides a true and fair view of the sla18 of affairs of the charity at the 8nd of the year and of the incoming and outgoing resources for the year, Ihen ended. In preparing those financial statements. the Trustees are required to select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently, making judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. The Trustees must also prepare the financial statements on a going concem basis unless rt is inappropriate to presume thal the charity will continue in business. The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records. which disclose with reasonable accuracy. at any lime, the financial position of the charity and to enable it lo ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial stslements and comply with the charivs artides of association. the Companies Act 2006 and 'Accounling and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities pparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting StarKlard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021" (effective 1 January 2019). Aims and Objectives of GBNI Purpose and Aim Our charity's Purpose, as sel t1 in the GB Regulations. is to help girfs to become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. and through self-control. reveren and a sense of respjnsibility, to find trve enrichment of life. The Objects wntained in the charity's Memorandum of Association are to promote, extend and maintain Christian belief and behaviour primarily in girls. This is done through the fomiation and development of local groups for the purposes of training and encouraging such members to follow the stsndard set by the Lord Jesus Christ for the whole of life and io provide positive Christian teaching regarding the s¢xial issues facing them in their growing and adult lives. Our Aim fully reflects the purpose that the charity was set up to further. Ensuring our Work Delivers our Aim and Objectives We review our Airn, Objectives and activities every three years. This strategic review looks at what we achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous three years. The review looks at the success of each key activity and the benefits they have brought to those groups of girfs and vrnen we are set up to help. The review also helps US ensure our Aim, Objectives and activities remained focused on our stated purpose. We refer to the guidance contained in The Charity Commission for Northem Iland'S guidan on public benefit when reviewing oUrM and Objectives and in planning future activrties. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute lo the Aim and Objectives they have seL
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 The Focus of our Work Our main slrategic priorities for the year were.. To deliver effecttve, indusive youth work. engaging with young people across Nl in our companies each week to raise standards for all. To train leaders to deliver high quality programmes and develop the young people. This indudes delivering training for volunleers, encouraging girls into leadership and a programme of safeguarding training for leaders. To increase the number of gids we work with and to devew our youth4ed decision-making participation scheme, 'GBNI Youth Forum,. To increase access and equty. To resource and support leaders and seek out funding. This includes the provision of programme malerials and support for leaders. To improve the self-esteem of girls and make them become better citizens. To encourage personal, physical and spiiiiual development in the girts we engage with. How our Activltles Dellver Public Benefit The direct benefits which flow from the puTse of GBNI are the spiritual. personal and social development of girfs who participate in GB activities. events and programmes. This indudes enhanced self-confidence. self-esteem and leadership skills and the adoption of a moral framework. which encourages our girls lo be good citizens. The wider benefit to the 'community at large,. is enhanced social education and spOnSIble citizenship that flows from the purpose. These benefit5 are demonstrated through the feedback provided by the girls and the voluntary 18aders in GB companies, through feedback from local thurches and stalulory youth services. regular assessment by the Education and Training Inspectorate and independent evaluations of Iraining, programmes and events.
GIRLS, BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 Who Used and Bonefitted from our Services The charity's beneficiaries are girfs. There is no vate benefit flo.ng from the purpose of the charity. GBNI offers a programme of fun activities for girfs, designed to educate, challenge and inspire along with Christian teaching that is levant and meaningful to gifls today. The GB companies a njn in local churcheslmissions. Companies meet once a week, from Seplember to Aprivmay each year. Girls are grouped into sections according to age.. Explorers: Juniors: Seniors: Brigaders: 3-7 yrs {Pr&school - P41 &10 yrs IP5- P7) 11-13yrs (Yr8-Yr10) 14-18 yrs (Yr 11+) GB is a safe, caring. nurturing place where gids can.. Be creative. find sporting tslents. and enter competitions., Have fun in a safe and caring environment- Make lrfebong friends., Build confidence and self*steem; Discover G(>J and the relevance of the Bible today" Develop pracb'cal life skills.. Escape from the pressures of school., Find a place where gids can be girls: Find a sense of belonging- and Gain access lo the Duke of Edinburgh Award {DofE} and others.
GIRLS, BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 PRESIDENT'S REPORT As I look forward to my summer hdidays and take some time to reflect on our 2023124 session of Girfs. Brigade in Northern Ireland, l anticipate a summer with significant swrting events - Wimbledon in July is always a favourite in our house, the Euros in Gemany and the 2024 Olympics in Franc£ during August. The athletes participating in all these events have worked hard, trained and are at the lop of their sports, all competing. giving their best, hoping to win the prize, but knowing that not everyone who takes part wins, bul pushing themselves to their lifflils to participale. Perhaps the GBNI year. in our companies, could loosely be (x)mpared to an Olympic Games - many facets requiring different levels of strength, endurance, fitness and skill. No athlete would ever be able lo compete in every event in an Olympic Games, similady in our GB companies. we choose the events and activities which best fit our skills and talents as leaders, as well as the Inte$ts of the young ladies in our companies to enable them to leam, have fun and be encouraged lo 'Seek, Serve and Follow Christ.. In each of our companies we serve God where we are, not all participating in every event, some companies not participating in any, yet all very much engaged in the Christian race, working. using the resources and grfts thal we have to serne God where He has placed us. 11 is not an easy race, but we are all participants, but thankfvlly not in our own strength and always mindful that we serve one who loves us and gives so much for us. .let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. ftxing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set beforn him he endured the cross, scorning its shame. and Sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposltion from sinners, so that you wlll not grow weary and lose hèart." Hebrews 12.1-3. Parents, Evening and Displays are one of the highlights of the GB calendar. As GBNI President, it has been a al privilege to have the honour of attending some displays in ihe spring and seeing so much of what has been accomplished in our GB companies over the past year. In September 2023, as we embarked once again on a year's work. it was with the familiar routine that is well- established. PE demonstrations were once again well attended and appreciated by our members. Teams once again adopted a blended approach lo Team business which enabled a very encouraging regional attendance at meetings. These We a mixture of online and in-person, but always had the option of joining virtually if il was more convenient. The contribution of Oisln'ct Representatives to Team Meetings is so welcome. as this input, and the shared decisions of our Teams, help to shape the programme, training and events organised with our amazing stsff. Training webinars are now also Ihe nomi and once again this year encouraged good attendance. Our Ouke of Edinburgh's Award Presentstson took place in Thomas Street Methodist Church. Portadown last November. It was a Very special evening where the guest speaker, Lisa Keys from Boys. Brigade Nl, shared a message comparing the Christian joumey to an expedition. which was very appropriale. It is so encouraging lo see the DofE scheme grow from strength lo strength with so many girls achieving Bronze. Silver and Gold Awards. At a presentation in Hillsborough to mark the King's 75th Birthday. the many years of seNice of three of our members, Mrs Gillian Trouton, Mrs Patriua Bradshaw and Mr5 Shelley Martin, was acknowledged with the presentation of Long Service Award5. Our Vic&President. Heathef Lindsay, also attended this year's Gold Award Presentation in London in May 2024. Also. during the 2023124 session, our sports competits'ons were Badminton for Brigaders while the Seniors took part in Futsal cornpetitions. The Activities Team welcoffled the support and sponsorship of the IFA with the Fulsal prograrnme. The Nl Finals a an opportunity for our companies. from across the province, lo come logether for what is hoped will be a fun. competitive but enjoyable night. While getbng a venue for our Senior Futsal Nl Final was quite a challenge, and required a change of date. these competitions went well. and it was encouraging to see an increased number of companies participating in session. The Explorer and Junior Team Games Nl Finals in Wellingion Presbyterian. Ballymena were great fun and with the teams not knowing the games Ljntil they arrived, they were enjoyed by everyone. induding Ihe Team Vrt organised and stewarded the event.
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 This year, Girls. Brigade Nl welcomed a new o)mpany into our ranks 377th Nl Ballydown Presbyterian GB company. I had the pleasure, along with the National Secretary, of attending their Affiliation Service back in October. We ceiVed a very warm welcome from Mrs Sharon Moffett. the new Captain, along wilh the Chaplain. Officers and girls at their special sep4ice. We wish this company continued blessings for the future as they establish and grow in Banbndge. In October. with our National Secretary and Iwo of our Board Youth Reps. Lauren. Melissa and l attended an in- person European Fellowship weekend at Glasgow 'rpOrt. For many of us, induding myself, this was our first experien of EF. Our European VictrPresidenl. Amelia Heaford. coordinated the weekend. We had fellowship togelher as well as looking at EF funding and how we can realistically work together. and il was also an opportunity to learn how GB England and Wales and GB Scoland operate. In December, the GBNI Youth Forum Carol servi at Moira Presbyterian Church once again set us all up for Christmas festivities. Everyone, who attended, very much enjoyed the night and we thank the Youth Forum for their work coordinating and leading this event. I had the pleasure, with Heather and Tracey of chairing the Nl PE Finals in February in a new venue. Pathhall Integrated College, Antrim. This was a great venue. on again, we We amazed at the standard of the performances of teams and soloists alike. The Associate competttion in Lisbum the following week was also exceptional. The professional standard of their perfornianS was superb. The gids and offirS all did an amazing jobl The passion and commitrnent of the Work Setters and PE Team must also be acknowledged as they work so far in advance, planning for every eventuality. Congratulations to everyone involved! The Queen's Award, our highest G8 Award, aims to encourage girls and young wom8n to a personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Chnst while respects.ng other faiths., inspirtng them to gater endeavour in service within Ihe general community and lo contribute to the worfthde concept of the Girls, Brigade. Appreciating the work involved, it was lovely to Iravel to West Church Presbyterian. Ballymena to this year's Queen's Award Presentation in May. This was a very special evening for the CIpIentS, their families. companies and the wider Girfs, Brigade family with our special guest for the evening, Deaconess Rachel Cubitt. whose encouraging message was well received. We thank everyone In West Church for their wam welcome. Endurance Awards a a very speoal opportunity for companies to acknowledge the bravery and courage of their members who have experienced and come through challenges. This year. On agreed by the Trustee Board, it was a pleasure to present four Awards in three companies to young ladies who have faced their own, different challenges and continued to attend and ntribUte to their GB companies. Awards were presented lo Anna Stevenson & Sophie Leinster, 62nd Nl Hamilton Road Presbyterian, Darcie Smyth, 142nd Nl Kilmakee Presbyierian and Sophie Mcclenaghan. 155th Nl GreenIand Melhodist. Wisiting these companies, the pastoral support, Christian concem and impact these companies have made is equally noteworthy. Congratulations to everyone involved. The year ended wilh two arteMn lea events Whe the work of our volunteers was acknowledged at the Dunadry and Killyhevlin Hotels. These events were possible thanks to Development Funding from the Education Aulhority. It was lovely lo meet leaders and helpers from across the province for a very relaxed aftemoon of fellowship and food. A treat which was enjoyed by everyone who attended. Team Members, District Representatives and Board Members were also treated to some fun and a bart)ecue at GB Headquarters from thes8 funding streams tt)O. After another full and busy year in Gids, Brigade. l am thankful for Gj,$ faithftjlness. and His provision both in terms of grace and protection, personnel and resources. l am so gratefijl for all that ha5 been achieved and the seeds that have been sown this year. As we rejoi. let us also pray that in His time, this seed will bear much fruit for God's glory and the extension of His kingdom amongst our members. 1 Corinthians 3.6-9 "I planted, Apollos watergd. but God was Causing the growth. So Ihen neithor the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. Now he who plants and he who wators are one: but each will receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we aro G¢xl's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building." Isobel McKane GBNI President
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT I cannot quite believe that this report brings an end to my first temi as Chairperson of GBNII Thank you for trusting me to continue as Chair for another tem. I hope l am going forward into my second lem. wiser and more prepared than I was for the first! If l am. It is very much thanks to the talent and support of both the Trustee Board and Staff Team who do so much lo look after our amazing organisation. The last three years have been filled with both challenges and encouryagement. We cannol Igno the fact that some companies are struggling, the number of leaders and girts is reducing, and costs continue to rise. The Trustee Board has had to make some dtfficult deusions, particulady around the issue of costs and fees. slriving lo keep a delicate balance which will not place too onerous a burden on companies but still allows G8NI to function at a level we have grown to expect. All of this makes running GB both at company and nats'onal level more difficult. but al the heart of it all as 1 fimolhy 4.10 says, Yhat is why we labour and strlve, because we have put our hope in th8 living God, who is the Saviour of all people, and espeoally of those who believe". Some staff have mved on from GB to go onto new adVentuS and new stsff have joined us and the work of GB continues. Two staff members, Ann and Leeanne. celebrated 20 year5 of service in GB this year. We might not always say it bul thank you. As members of GB. we allY do appreoate the hard work and dedication of the Staff Team. I would also like to say thank you to the Trustee Board Members, Brigade Council and Team Representatives, bolh those who are finishing their term of Offi and those just starb'ng their5. the work that you all do is unrecognised but vital, if GB is not only lo suNive but thrive. Some highlights of the year for me induded= Northem Ireland Finals for sports competib'ons. team games and PE- as always. the talent on display was amazing and in all the activities. congratulations should be shared wilh all the worthy winners. Both the DOE PsentatIon Evening in Thomas Street Methodist and the Queen's Award Presentation Evening in Wesl Church Ballymena were an absolute joy wlth girls and young women On again showing that the fijture of GB is in safe hands. Attending one of four Amy Distnct Days during Aprivmay 2024 which saw 335 gids in total taking part in moming of fun and fellowship as they completed several skilled challenges in collaborats'on with the Amy. We have up to 40 gids. aged 14-18, attending the Amiy Summer Camp in August and we look forward to hearing the sU$S of this event in due course. Throughout the year I VMS delighted lo te invited to celebrate wilh companies at their anniversary services and displays and attend the Lisbum City Council's D-Day Anniversary celebration. Thanks to the receipt of some EA development fvnding. G8NI was also aide to ebrate our volunteers with hvo Aftemoon Tea events held at the Dunadry Hotel and the KillYhe1n Hotel and a BBQ for Teaffl Members at GBNI Headquarters. Looking forward to the year ahead, l once again want to say thank you to everyone who works tirelessly to promote and run our companies and encourage gids to. -seek. Serve and Follow Christ.. We are a unique group of individuals, all working with a common purpose and through good times and bad. tske heart with the promise found in 1 Peter 1.'6-7, "In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith of greater worth than gold. which perishes even though refined by fire may result in praise. glory and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed" Tracey Davies GBNI Chairperson
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 Chaplain's Report As we come to the end of our GB year and the summer stretches out befo us, l am sure you have heafd the phrase, Where has the year gone?. It Is fascinabng, leading and serving children and teenagers for whom a year seems a terribly long time and yet for us adults a year seems to whizz by. Peter in 2 Peter 3..8 builds on Moses, Psalm 90 and reminds us that for the Lord. a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as a day. Undoubt8dly, there will have been things that you wanted to do last year bul weren't able to, time just slips away but how wonderful lo know that isn't the case with the Lord. God keeps all His promises in His own perfect lime. There is nowhe that this is better proven than in the Saviour of sinners, the Lord Jesus. You and I know that in the person of Christ. the Lord's love is froffl everlasting to evertasting and we are richly blessed to have time to share that Gospel challenge and invitstion with our girts. It is deeply comforting to know that our times are in His hands. We have known Ihat truth at GBNI Board and Brigade Council as we received reports and sought to prayerfully deliberate over matters. Our GBNI Spiritual Team has been blessed by the arrival of Rev Aaron Ditty. our new Spiritual Officer on the Staff Team al GBHQ. Aaron. alorrfJ the supwrt of his skilful volunteers, began and brought together the new Scripture Course for 2024125. Our prayer is that through the engaging material. gids will encounter the Lord who reveals Himself, vtho made the wortd, who sent Jesus, who can forgive us through Jesus, and who blesses us with lrfe to the full as His followers. Personally, it has also been a privilege to serve on the new websrte projecL l am really excited to see its launch soon and know it will be a great blessing for GB at all levels. Once again, thank you for the time you faithfully give in your GB companies lo serve Christ and work with the girls. I pray you know rest and refreshment before a new tenn starts. Psalm 125'.1 tells us, "Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion. which cannot be moved. but abides fOVer.. Yours in Christ, Rev Ben Preston GBNI Chaplain
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 REVIEW OF ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Some 15,161 girls were engaged in weekly programmes supported by 3.312 leaders in 269 GB companies. All the girls took part in age-appropriate programmes designed to challenge, educate and Inspi them. The break(Jown of members by age is as fdl¢)ws: Under 5s13- 4 yrs).. 2.578 EWorers15- 7 yrs).. 4,579 Juniors {8 - 10 yrs)= 3.756 Seniors (11 13 yrs)-' 2,342 Brigaders114- 18 yrs)- 1,816 Associales (18 yrs+).' Associate Leaders: Su&Officers: Officers.. 802 387 2.123 GB leaders were resourced with materials and ideas to create programmes that m8t the ne8ds and interests of their girls. The programme is progressive and rewards gids for participation. To encourage girfs to consider their attitudes and perceptions of people from other communities. we continued lo work with five other unifomied organisations on community relations programmes to develop greater understanding and respect for different cultures and traditsons in Northem Ireland. To resource leaders to deliver high-quality programmes we delivered training for volunteers. encouraging girls into leadership and a programme of safeguarding training for leaders. Numbers Trained.. Officers sUOfficers Queens Award The Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Gold The Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Silver The Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Bronze 29 177 25 103
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 Activities Team The 2023124 session was a very exciting year. 11 was fantsstic to be out and about catching up with leaders and seeing Ihe gids enjoying competitions. In December. the Brigaders travelled to Lisbum Racquets Club for their Badminton Doubles Finals. This was a fantastic event. and many thanks must go to William, Alec, and their team from Ulster Badminton for facilitating the Nl Finals. It was greatly supported by leaders helping from District 6. At the start of 2024. il was the S8niors tum lo travel to the Valley Leisure Centre in Newtownabbey for their Senior Futsal Nl Final. It was great lo be collaborating with the Irish Football Association. Our thanks must go to Lauren Moore and her team from the Irish Ft)otball Association for all of their hard work throughout the entire session, for supplying a venue. scheduling match play and providing feree support for the Nl Final. As part of their prizes. all teams who qualified for the Nl Final were invited to go and walch the Northem Ireland Women'5 UEFA Play-off between Northem Ireland and Montenegro al Windsor Park in February. Those who attended the match were invited to take part in the half-time walk around the pitch, which was a fantastic opportunity for the girts and their leaders. We look forward to continuing this partnership th the IFA in the future. Finally, in March, Explorers and Juniors took part in their respective Team Games Nl Finals. The girfs had a brilliant day at the Final which was held in Wellington Presbyterian Churth. Throughout the day. there were lots of smiling faces and laughler to be seen and heard. It was great to be in partnership again Habitst for Humanty Ireland for our art competitions for Seniors and Brigader5. The theme was thinking about how we take responsibility for looking after our worfd. The girls were asked to capture photos of their favourite wonders of creab.on and to tell us how and why they think we should be doing our part to protect our World. It was incredie to see hundreds of entn.es coming through the door. Thanks to Peter and the team froffl Habitat, who spent the day at G8HQ picking the winners. As always, art entry money is a great way lo do fundraising for this very worthwhile organisation as half of all entry fees went directly to help support the work of Habitat. The Activities Team would like to thank everyone who helped out with slewarding. refereeing, and organising all levels of competitions this year, from company and district level to Nl Finals. Thank you also, to the Officers and leaders in each company for training and coaching their girts, to enable them to take part in this year's competitions. We really couldn't have done it without you all. DofE Team The DofE Scheme continues to grow within GBNI. This year we had 103 Bronze Awards, 88 Silver Awards and 29 Gold Awards completed successfully. Gold Award participants from GBNI attended Celebration events both at Buckingham Palace and Hillsborough Caslle, and our own Bronze and Silver Celebration Evening was held in Thomas Street Methodist Church. Lisa Keys IBBNI Chief Officer) spoke inspirationally to the participants and recognised all the cornmitment and work thal our GBNI participants. leaders and parents put into each and every Award. We would like to lake this OPPK)rtunity to thank all the GBNI leaders who Yrk so passionately lo make the DofE Scheme a continuing success in our organisalion. 10-
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 PE Team It was wonderful to see PE competrtions bath again in the 2023124 session in a lovely new vènue. It was arnazing to see so many girls taking part to such a high standard and having fun. Many thanks to the PE Team and Work Setters vtho wor*ed so hard to provide such exciting sets that challenged the girls, bul that were also enjoyable lo leam and perform. PE is very much a massive team effort, and the passion and dedication of our volunteers is very muth appreciated. Together they work so hard and with such enthusiasm and commitment. to ensure that PE is a huge success. The Nl Finals gives everyone the opportunity to celebrate the tslents and skills. not only of the gids perfomiing bul of everyone involved in creating, teachin9 and developing each set. It was very encouraging lo see so rnany companies entering the compelitTrons and we look forward to seeing more companies coming back lo PE competitions over the next year as we continue lo develop and grow PE in GB. Many thanks must also go to the team at Parkhall Integrated College and Trinity Methcrtlist Lisbum, for hosting the Nl Finals. and to the members of Belfast City Mission, Rathcoole, Ballydare Presbytenan, and Tnnity Methodist Church. Lisbum. for organising and providing Ihe charity tea and coffee at the events to raise funds for their chosen causes. Thank you also lo everyone who volunleered to help out at PE Competitions, both at districl and Nl level, and to the Officers and leaders in each company for training and coaching their girls", so Ihat they were equipped and prepared to take part in the PE Competitions. Al your hard work and dedication is really appreciated. We are indebted to you all for your hard work and commitment throughout the year. Thank you all again and we look forward to seeing you next year. 11
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 Programmo Team The 2023124 GB session Saw the GBNI Programme Team complete the third and final sel of programme updates in associalion with Habitat for Humanity Ireland as part of Ihe three-year charity partnership. Habitat updates were developed for leaders across all sections (Under 5s. Explorers, Juniors, Seniors. and Brigaders) focusing on advocacy and using our voices to help others and effect thange. A new relationship was developed with Ulster Wildlrfe. and we were excited to be able to pri)duce a Leader Programme Pack as well as fun, interacts've thbooks for Explorers and Juniors. Three editions of the Resources4U publicalion were published, packed fijll of craft, games and activity ideas for leaders for every sedion. The Prograrnme Team also developed a series of short video resour$, available from August 2024. for G8NI leaders covering topics such as: . An introduction to GB for potential leaders: Guide to GB unifom., Basic PE steps and movements.. and Leading from the front. Thank you to the GBNI Programme Team for their commitrnent and enthusiasm all year and we look forwarcl lo everything the 2024125 session bringsl Queen's Award Team The Queen's Award Team were delighted to award The Queen's Award badge and certificate to 25 young women upon successful completion of their Award programme this session. Between them. the Award recipients completed over 1200 hours of service within their local community. This is in addition to Servi within their GB company and 8lso in the wider life of their church. This year girfs, once again. completed project assignments to an extremely high standard. We were delighted to see some new project choices. such as planning. recording and editing a podcast series and the design and distribution of hundreds of Discapleship stones. As a GB family. we congratulate all the girls on their athievement and thank them all for their commitment to GB. GBNI is very proud of our Queen's Award girls and the level of dedication they have shown in completing the Award programme. West Church Ballymena wamly welcomed the Queen's Award recipients and guests to their church for this year's Award Presentation ceMonY on Friday 10th May 2024. Our guest speaker was Deaconess Rachel Cubitt. We were also delighted to be joined by Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna. Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, as well as Group Commarsder Archie McKay, Northem Ireland Fire and Rescue SeNice who was Presented wth trauma teddies completed by the girls as part of their inits"ative test. A special thanks lo everyone al West Church Ballymena including the catering learn and the praise baF)d for their kindness and hospitality. During the evening, experiences and lessons leamed during their Queen's Award joumey were also shared by Hannah Charnbers1111th Nl Newtownabbey MethcKlist Mission), Olivia Smyth {221 sl Nl Magherafelt Presbyterianl, Amy McGr8gor {252nd Nl Balteagh Presbytenan) and Mollie GuthriorUMMI320th Nl Kilfennan Presbyterian). In this upcoming session, we continue to offer a Queen's Award prografflme that wll cKJntinue to inspire. stretch, challenge, and equip girls by developing skills, offering experiences, and supporting each girl on her joumey of faith. We ask you to remember in prayer all Queen's Award girts as they complete the programme and their leaders who continue lo support and encourage girls at each stage of the Award. Thank you to the Queen's Award Team for their support. enthusiasm and dedication to GB and the Queen's Award programme. The time and effort the Team commit to marking initiats've tests, assessing projects. conducting final interviews etc. is considerable and we commend them for their willingness to seNe completely and wholèheartedly. 12-
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MAY 2024 Queon's Award rncipients 2023124 District 1 18th Nl Oundonald Presbyterian Rachel Mcveigh District 4 197th Nl Ballyblack Presbyterian Rebecca Mccormick District 6 92nd Nl Hillsborough Presbyterian Zoe Taylor District 7 138th Nl Moy Presbyterian 138th Nl Moy Presbyterian Katie Stinson Grace Wylie District 8 111th Nl Newtownabbey Methodist Mission 111th Nl Newtownabbey Methodist Mission Hannah Chambers Leah Mccallan District 9 20th Nl Joymount Presbyterian 367th Nl Ballyclare Presbyterian 367th Nl Ballydare Presbyterian Eden Cully Megan Alen Ellie Andrew District 10 221 st Nl Magherafell Presbyterian 221 st Nl Magherafell Presbyterian 258th Nl Culnady Presbyterian Ellen Bleaks Olivia Smyth Abbie Caskey District 11 248th Nl Second Limavady Presbyierian 252nd Nl Balteagh Presbyterian 254th Nl First Limavady Presbylerian 254th Nl First Limavady Presbyterian 312th Nl Bovevagh Parish 320th Nl Kilfennan Presbyterian 320th Nl Kilfennan Presbylerian 320th Nl Kilfennan Presbyterian Charlee Hamilion Amy McGregor Rebecca Hutton Millie Thompson Anna Bumett Mollie Guthrie-DnJmm Hollie Parke Keira Thompson District 12 208th Nl INinestovm Presbyterian 208th Nl Irvinestown Presbylerian Jasmine Giles Rebecca Thompson District 13 236th Nl Armoy Presbyterian 273rd Nl Ballymoney Refom7ed Presbyterian Amy Mccurdy Rebekah Blair Spiritual Team The 2023124 session of GB has provided many reasons and opportunitres to give thanks to God for His provision and guidance. We are a Team that cannot do our work without the work of the Holy Spirit in our live5 and are thankful that. in our deliberations and work, God's hand has been evident time and ts'me again. Our GBNI Chaplain. Rev Ben Preston. has led the Team with passion and wisdom. We are thankful for his enthusiasm for the Scriptures. This year V have seen a significant thange in the Spiritual Team and department. Namely. we welcomed our new Spiritual Officer, Aaron Ditty. in August 2023. Much of his work has been concentrated on our new Scripture Course for the 2024125 session. It is lrtled. Yrfe Believe" and consists of ten lessons outlining the core. fundamental beliets of the Girls. Brigade. 13-
GIRLS, BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 The Spiritual Team believes that in this current cultural dimate. the a many opposing voices vying for our girls. attention. Stating clearly who and what we believe in, as an organisabon. will enable us to be stronger and more confident as we move forward. Additional support for GB companies has not been as plentiful as it has been in previous years. Much of this is due to the Spiritual Officer learning the role and taking lime to assess the best way to assist companies in their delivery of the Scriptures. It is hoped that throughout the coming year there will b8 a Leaders, Worship Event. a GB Prayer Week and the option for online leaming and fellowship. Work will begin earfy in the Autumn session lo prepare for next year's Scripture Course. The Spiritual Team would appreciate the prayers of our membership for wisdom. passion and guidance from God. May, all that we do, help girls to "Seek, Serve and Follow Christ". Training Toam This year saw a significant increase in trainees for both the Offir and sutOffiCer training courses, with 177 coming forward for Officer training and 188 for Su10Cer training. The new fomiat for the SutFOfficer training. introduced last year, was continued in 2023124 and we are very grateful for the conts'nued support of each district in running workshops for their trainees. It is fantastic to see so many come foThvard to take up leadership roles in our l¢xal GB companies, allowing GBNI to conlinue its great work wilh our girfs and young women. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the leaders who work so hard to make the training so successful each year- Captains. GB leaders. Training Team Reps and District Reps all come together to provide the leadership training that helps keep our GB companies well supplied with leaders for the future. Youth Forum Over the course of the 2023124 session, the GBNI Youth Forum experienced b.mes of great blessing and joy but also some moments that gave us pause for thought as we considered the futu. Chief among those considerations is the desire to have a Forurn that works for the benefft of our most iMpan1 members. the girfs we serve. We continued to practically support members through the delivery of our"Roadshows'. These saw a member of the GBNI Youth Forum Team visit individual GB Gompanies, from north to south and east to west. Each Roadshow included a presentation about the work of the Forum and an invitabon lo get involved in fLrture events. Membership and representsts'on at district level and in GB Teams. were highlighted as a positive for all involved. We held our annual Carol Service on 2 December in Mcmra Presbyterian Church. Our speaker for the evening was Ruth Dalzell who encouraged us lo think about the women of Jesus. family tree. Upwards of 90 members joined together for what proved to be an UFAifbng and God-glorifying evening. Another popular aspect of the GBNI Youth Forum's work is our resources. One resrce that is given out on request is our"Nexl Chapterf boxes. This tmendouS source indudes a book and other gits that can aid those girls in our companies who are moving on to university or college. There are encouragernents and lips for life after GB and spiritual guidance for those times when following Jesus is tough. OveT 100 of these have been distribuled and we give thanks for the provision and continued interest there has been. Another resource we were delighted to provide was our"GB Prayer Book" This book has 40 specially written prayers that cover a wde range of topics that the gids can use as part of their devotional lrfe. or as a means of help when they struggle to find the words in prayer. 500 of these have been distributed to date at our Carol SeNice and Roadshows. The year ahead will see inevitable change for the Forum. We would apprecAate the prayers of the meMbehIP as we discem God's leading for the future. A special word of thanks lo all who have been involved and given so much of their time to the GBNI Youth Forum. Namely. we thank Melissa Meldrum who is stepping back this year from the Team after many years of faithfvl and passionate service. 14-
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 GBNI Shop Due to unrfom) and leisu wear sales, September and October are the busiest months of the year. Overall, these categories account for 690/y of yearfy sales. Shop Staff processed 2203 orders in Septernber - 1285 were customers in-store and 918 by posl. The Shop opens on Saturday momings during September and tsvo in October- these days conts'nue lo be extremely busy with up to 75 customers dealt with each moming. See the table below with sales figures (including retums) listed by category for 2022123 and 2023124 (sales rigures do not include VATI. 2022123 2023124 Difference Uniforni 212,277 171.494 40.783 Leisure Wear 39,479 37.501 -1,978 Awards 25.692 28.289 2.597 Trophies 5.181 8.097 2,916 Gifts 20,981 23.258 2,277 Coronatlon Coln 15,786 -15.786 Resources 5.996 4,983 -1.013 Scrlpture 32,411 22,105 -10.306 DofE 7,781 1.237 Totals 364.347 303.508 40,839 . Overall sales have decreased by £60,839. Unrfom sales have decreased by £40.783 due to the extremely busy previou5 year as companies reopened fully after COVID-19. Uniform sales accounted for 57 /[* of all sales. We had £15,786 in sales of the Coronation Coin the previous year. contributing to the overall loss for 2023124. . Scripture sales for 2022123 induded sales from 2021122 therefore this year is showing a decrease of £10,306. . Awards, Trophies, and Gifts have all increased by over £2,000. Stock value for the end of the year is £111,828.87 and has decreased by £9.578.41 from the previous year. 15-
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 Financlal r•vl•w The Trustees a K1n9 a surplus for the year lo 31st May 2024 of £45,212 (2023.. deficit of £9,297}. Assessment fees were £260.282 12023: £266.398) and shop sales were £303.508 12023: £364,347). Shop expenditure reduced to £314,90512023: £325.8091 as a result of deaSed activty. The year ended th an operational deficit of £49.917 (2023: surplus of £7,879). Our investments continued to perforni well. providing £27,588 (2023.. £28,386) of income in the year. Surplus on sales amounted lo £11.195 12023.. £61.652). which, affected the overall value of our portfolio at 31 May 2024 and increased it by £95,129 12023.. decreased by £17,176). The Trustees regard this as a satisfactory outcome in another drfficult year and consider the financial position to be sound, with reserves, which are adequate to meet the future needs of the charity- Reserves Policy 11 is the policy of the charity that UnStrICted funds which have not been deswnated for a specific use or are not invested in tangible fixed assets should be maintained at a level equivalent to betsveen six and nine month's charitable expenditu. The Trustees consider that reserves at this level will ensu that, in the evenl of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the charity's current activities while consideration is given lo ways in which additional funds may be raised. On 31 st May 2024. the free reserves of £2,136,838 would have covered 27 months of the charity's expenditure. These reserves indude buildings of £888.538. Principal Funding Sources Our principal funding sources are annual assessments on individual Girls. Brigade companies and shop sales. The Trustees are grateful for the continuing sUprt of the Education Authority by way of a grant. Investment Poli The Trustees, with the assistan of their registered inveslment advisors, regularly monitor the investment portfolio to ensure maximurn income and growth from the investments whilst continuing to pursue an ethical. medium risk policy which is not contrary lo the charity's principles and values. Risk Policy The Trustees have considered the cOnsequenS of the continually rising cost of living and other major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied that systems and protocols are in place to mits'gate exposure to those risks. The current and future impact does not create a matenal uncertainty that casts doubt on the ability to continue as a going conrn. Plans for future periods Given the strength of reseryes and the continuing support of our funder5 for the foreseeable future. the principal plan is to build and strengthen the organisation through monitoring and reviews of the Strategic document and the feedback from our membets. 16
GIRLS. BRIGADE NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MA Y 2024 Structure, govornan¢e and management The charity is a company limile(I by guarantee as defined by the Companies Act 2006. The Trustees, who are also the d1ClOrS for the purFose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the dale of Signatu of the financial statements were: l McKane H Lindsay T Davies L Murtagh 10 M Meldrum L Cull l Bryans J Budd A Bingham T Erskine B Preston Korr (Appointed 13 September 2023) Recrultment and Appointment of New Trustees When new or additional twstees a required then the members are invited to submit nominations and subject to their compliance with the Memorandum and Artides of Association they are considered by the membership for election al the Annual General Meeting. Twslees may be COaOPted at other times by the Board and their election as trustees is ratified or otherwse by the membership at the next AGM. Trustees. Interests None of the Trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. Audltor In accordance with the company's artides. a resolution proposing that CorrKJan CA Limited be reappoinled as auditor of the company will be put al a General Meeting. The Trustees, report was approved by the Board of Trustees. T Davies Truste• 21 August 2024 17-