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 SU￿￿officers 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 p￿SentIng 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 D1￿ClorS 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 p￿paring 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 t￿1 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 v￿rnen 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 I￿land'S guidan￿ on public benefit when reviewing oUr￿M 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 puT￿se 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 perfornian￿S was superb. The gids and offi￿rS 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 g￿ater 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 GreenI￿and 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 arteM￿n 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 G￿j,$ 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 adVentu￿S 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 P￿sentatIon 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 KillYhe￿1n 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 fO￿Ver..
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
sU￿Officers
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 incredi￿e 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 Y￿rk 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 ce￿MonY 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 Guthri￿orUMMI320th 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 Offi￿r and sut￿OffiCer training courses, with 177
coming forward for Officer training and 188 for Su1￿0￿Cer 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 iMp￿an1 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 res￿rce that is given out on request
is our"Nexl Chapterf boxes. This t￿mendouS ￿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 meMbe￿hIP 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￿ ￿K￿1n9 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 de￿aSed 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 Un￿StrICted 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 sUp￿rt 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 cOnsequen￿S 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 con￿rn.
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 d1￿ClOrS 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-