STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
( A COfvIPANY LIIWIITED BY GUARANTEE AND NOT HAVING A SHARE CAPITAL)
COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER N1031411
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER NIC 100727
O'HARA SHEARER
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS AND STATUTORY AUDITORS
547 FALLS ROAD
BELFAST
BTII 9AB

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
CONTENTS
Page
Membei's and Pi'ofessional Advisors
TrLlStees Anniial Report
(inclLiding the Statement of Directors Responsibilities
in respect of financial statements)
2-30
Repoit of tlie Independent Aiiditors to tlie Members,
31-33
Accounting Policies
34-36
Statement of Financial Activities (incoi'porating the income and expenditure account)
37
Balance Sheet
38
Stateinent of Cash Flows
39
Notes to the Financial Statements
40-46

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
OFFICERS AND OTHER INFORMATION
Directors
Micliael Scott (Chair)
Micliael Di'ayne
Cormac O'Donnell
Lisa Beers
Sarah Jolinston
Sliirley Smylie
Secretary
Paula Jenniiigs
Registered Office
Steppiiig Stones NI
39 Seyinour Sti-eet
Lisburn
County Antrim
BT27 4SY
Auditors
O'Hai'a Shearer
Chaitered Accoiintants
& Statutory Auditoi's
547 Falls Road
Belfast
BTII 9AB
Solicitors
Donaldsoii Mcconiiell & Co
Solicitors
8-10 Graliam Gardens
Lisburn
County Antrim
BT28 IYS
Banker5
Dansk¢ Bank
62-66 Bow Street
Lisbui'n
BT28 IYS
Company Registration Number
N1031411
Charity Commission for Northern Ireland Registration Number
NIC 100727
Page I

Section 1: The organlsation
Section 2: Who we are
Section 3 Our Purpose, mission and values
Section 4: Strategy for delivery
Section 5: Performance and achievements
Section 6: Financials
SECTION 1- The Organisation
Reference and Administrative Details
Registered Company number N1031411 (Northern Ireland)
Registered Charity Number
100727
VAT Number
701428570
Date of Incorporation
October 1996
Registered Office
39 Seymour St
Lisburn
Co Antrim
BT27 4SY
Trustees
Michael Drayne
Michael Scott Chair
Cormac O DonneLI ( resigned JULY 2024)
Sarah Johnston (resigned June 20251
ShirLeyAnn Smylie
Lisa Beers
Jenna Gardiner (joined September 2024)
Company Secretary and Chief Officer
Paula Jennings

Independent Auditors
Laurance Shearer: O'Hara Shearer
547 Falls Road, Belfast BT119AB
Solicitor
Donaldson Mc Connell & Co
8-10 Graham Gardens
Lisburn Co Antrim BT28 1XE
Bankers
Danske Ban1<
62-66 Bow St
Lisburn BT28 1YS
Website
htt s:11
ni.com/

SECTION 2-Who we are
Stepping Stones Nl is an award-winning charitable organisation and company Limited by
guarantee that has provided training and employment services for people with learning
disabilities, learning difficulties and Autism who often are furthest away from the labour
market, for over 27 years. We do this in conjunction with social enterprise activity. The
companywas first established in 1996 to fiLI the gap in service provision for people with
Learning disabilities who had no access to training to advance their skills towards
employment, education and volunteering. Stepping Stones Nl opened its doors in
January 1998 providing training and supported opportunities for peopLe with severe
Learning disabilities.
In the reporting period from 1StApril 2024- 31" March 2025 we continued to deLiver our
range of services providing opportunities for people with disabilities to advance their
personal and employabiLity skills and overall health and wellbeing, towards a life more
f u If illed.
The services and social enterprises at Stepping Stones Nl during the reporting period
included:
Youth Service: engaging with young people aged 16-24 who were not in any form
of training or employment through a range of employability and personaL
development activities.
Training: offering training and outreach training to people in various courses
leading to the attainment of accredited qualifications including customer
service, health and safety, work appropriate behaviour, catering, financial
literacy. and mental heaLth etc.
Employment Service and Academies: providing employment supportto people
with learning difficulties and learning disabilities. This included help with writing
CVS, application form preparation, interviews preparation and support in the
workplace with employers.
The Courtyard Cafe: Social enterprise Cafe in Lisburn delivering quaLitytraining
for people with learning disabilities in hospitality, customer service and food
preparation.
Pink Elephant Cards: Social enterprise specialising in bespoke wedding
stationery and greeting cards made by people with learning disabilities.
2ndAvenue Cafe: social enterprise providing volunteering opportunities to adults
with learning disability as welL as an outside catering service.
Stepping Stones Nl Picture Framing: Social Enterprise offering training in
picture framing and customer service to people with learning disabilities.
Recognised bythe Fine ArtTrade Guild as quality provider of framing services
and staff trained to Guild Commended Framer standard.

The Gatelodge Café: Social enterprise Café in Newtownards delivering quality
training for people with Learning disabilities in hospitality, customer service and
food preparation.
Navigation House: programme foryoung people to advance their skills in
horticuLture and to engage health and wellbeing activities
Delivering social impact at Lisburn Island Centre delivering contracted
catering provision for Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.
Stepping Stones Nl ensures that people with a learning disability, autism, and barriers
to Learning have the support and opportunity to develop their skills, realise theirtalents,
try new things, attain accredited qualifications, and live as active citizens in their
community.
We develop quality training and empLoyment services for people with a variety of
learning abiLities who require the support they need to advance their training and gain
the supportto gain employment. The work duringthe delivery period was supported by
UK Shared Prosperity Fund, contracts including Health Trust Contracts and Department
for Communities fundingto deliver locaL labour market partnerships. as well as income
generated through our social enterprises which is reinvested back into the organisation
to creating social impact.
Stepping Stones Nl continued work successfullythrough PROSPER funded by UK
Shared Prosperity Fund in collaboration with Triangle Housing Association Limited, AEL
Ltd, CAN Ltd and ApplebyTrust. The PROSPER programme commenced delivery on 1,
April 2023 for a period of two years. (an extension of one yearwas granted from 1st April
2025 to 31st March 2026)

SECTION 3- Our Vision, Values and Objectives
Stepping Stones Nl is a Limited Company with charitable status that has been
deLivering seNices since January 1998. It provides quality training and employment
services for people with a range of disabilities who often are furthest removed from the
Labour market, helping those people to find a job if it is their ambition.
Ourvision
AsocialLyenriched world where every individual can take proud steps towards a Life
fulf iLled
Our Purpose
To nurture the potential ofpeoplewithadisabilityto thrive in a socially inclusive society.
Ourvalues
Respect:We respect everyone's rightto a life more fulfilled and respect each other in the
process
Inspire: We inspire employers and the widercommunityto see disability differently
Empowering: We empower each other to make a positive impact on the worLd and in
the organisation, we work
OurVaLues drive our behaviours and govern our actions. They are at the heart of our
culture and define who we are, and howwe present ourselves every day.
Our Behaviours
Driven: We are driven, seizing every opportunity to create better lives
Honest: We are honest and always do the right thing
Positivelycharged: We are positiveLycharged and passionate about makingthings
possible.
Nurturing: We Nurture aLI our People to be their best
QuaLityfocused: We are qualityfocused, to always ensure the highest standard.

Our Culture
People and Purpose are at the centre of everything that we do. Through our culture our
values will be instiLLed throughout the organisation, mal<ing a positive difference to
people's lives
Ourteam WILL work with purpose and passion to go the extra mile for our people.
Our Objectives
To develop sen/ices and social enterprises which will provide appropriate training
opportunities leadingto employment for adults with learning difficulties.
To equip individuals participating in projects and services with knowledge, skilLs,
attitudes and qualifications to enable progression to supported employment.
To increase disability awareness amongst society.
To promote independence, wellbeing and sociaL inclusion amongst adults with
learning difficulties participating in projects.
To provide a quality service to stal<eholders accessing Stepping Stones Nl services
and social enterprises.
To promote cooperation and develop Linl<s with other reLevant agencies to maximise
opportunities for people with learning difficulties.
For the purposes of this report the expression 'learning difficulty shaLI include any
Learning disability, difficulties, and associated problem or those who appear on the
autistic spectrum, a developmental disability of the mind, sensory impairment,
acquired brain injury or mental health probLem. Neurodiverse refers to is a term that
has gained traction if recent years to describe people with disabilityldifficulties as
having a brain that worl<s differentlyfrom the average or'neurotypical" person.

SECTION 4- Strategy for Delivery
Our strategic focus for the next 4 years12024-20281 is to channel a more holistic
approach to the delivery of our services and to seize every opportunityfor our
participants and trainees. We passionately believe that people with disabilities should
have access to every opportunity that leads to a life more fulfilled. We will sustainably
grow our services and social enterprises for purpose for people with a learning disability
and barriers to learning
Our Values
Qu¥ 8eh8viours
Our Services
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sup
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Geography
)RTrI£Rt4 IRELAJ+O
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Our Strategic Priorities
1. Quality: Strivingfor excellence and the highest standard in alLthat we do
2. Team: Attracting and developing a team of well sl<illed, confident, and professional
people
3. Social Enterprise: BuiLding on and expanding social enterprises to grow our income
always with a balance on our people and mindful of our Stepping Stones Nl purpose.
4. Employment, Training and Youth Services and wellbeing: Developing and
delivering employment and training services to find jobs for people to prosper and live
well.
5. Technology: Embracing technology to drive quality, performance and innovation.

6. Sustainability: Developing a more sustainable and responsible business model and
financial sustainabilitywith purpose at this core.
Stepping Stones Nl was incorporated in 1996 and is established under Articles of
Association which sets out the objects and powers of the company, and the company is
governed under its Articles of Association. These articles were revised and updated
during the reporting period bythe board of Trustees and passed to the Charities
Commission of Northern Ireland for review.
Our Public Benefit
In shapingthe strategy and objectives of Stepping Stones Nl the Trustees have
considered the Charity Commission Nl guidance on pubLic benefit including the
commissions Public Benefit Reporting Document and confirm that they have complied
with the requirements of section 4 of the Charities Act (Northern IreLandl 2008.
The direct benefits which flowfrom our purposes to advance education, relieve
unemployment and develop the capacity and skills of individuals aged 16 and overwith
learning disabilities and learning difficulties, are:
to provide or assist in the provision of, programmes of education, including
accredited and vocational training designed to assist the beneficiaries to lead to
employment and volunteering opportunities and to enhance their personal
development.
to provide support and guidance to the beneficiaries in the transition towards
employment.
to establish and manage community-owned-business projects promoted by the
companyto create training and employment opportunities forthe beneficiaries
in benefit.
to advance any other exclusively charitable purpose as the directors may, from
time to time, decide in accordance with the law of charity.

Our Benefits
The organisation is committed to delivering services to peopLe with learning disabiLities
and learning difficulties that assist in their development and personal progression
Leadingto employment we do this through:
The provision of a range of services and social enterprises that provide the
opportunity for people with learning disabilities and Learning difficulties to gain
qualifications leadingto employment.
The increased personal development and wellbeing of people with learning
disabilities and learning difficulties.
Attainment of qualifications and skills development of people with learning
disabilities and learning difficulties.
Youth service, training and empLoyment service provide job support and delivery
employer lead academies for people to gain voLunteering and empLoyment in the
community.
SociaL enterprises that provide a reaListic working environment in which people
can develop their work skills, gain qualifications and engage with customers
thus increasingtheir seLf-esteem, confidence and independence.
The development of programmes and services that will support people with
learning disabiLities and Learning difficulties fulfil theirfulL potential in society.
io

SECTION 5- Achievements and Performance 202412025
Our Services
During 202412025 Stepping Stones Nl our services continued to thrive with continued
support from new funders, employers and stakeholders. We continued to deLiver and
build on our quality services that support people with Learning disabilities, learning
difficulties and Autism to develop their employability skiLls and achieve qualifications
leading to employment. We did this across Lisburn & CastLereagh City Council, Ards
and North Down Borough Council, Newry Mourne and Down District Council and in
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and BeLfast City Council areas.
We continued to deliver the provision of catering services at Lisburn Civic Centre,
for Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, putting social enterprise at the heart of a
community and civic space whilst generating income forthe organisation.
Employment Service
The Employment Service supports participants to gain empLoyment/jobs andlor
voluntary placements of their choice.
The employment service provided people with opportunities to avail of:
Innovative pre-empLoyment"BE IN WORK" academy training courses with
industry specific companies that led to a paid job for participants. We
embedded our newly branded"BE IN WORK" Academies into the Stepping
Stones to Employment delivery modelwithin the new PROSPER consortium, to
address local Labour market skills shortages, as well as meeting individuaL
empLoyertraining requirements.
st
Since LA
24t
1st March 2025 there were:
531 referrals from participants who were economically inactivel with long term
complex health needs Idisability
201 jobs secured for people accessing our services.
79 people with a learning disability engagingwith Stepping Stones Nl
19 referrals to ouryouth Service
307 accredited qualifications
32 industry led employment academies, in partnership with a number of
employers including:
ocs
EE
li

Peacocks
Decora
HaLdane Fisher
Hendersons RetaiL Group
Premier Inn
Popeyes
McDonalds
Foot Antsey McKees
HCL
Poundstretcher
The academies were aimed at labour marl<et employment gaps where we
worked with premier employees in the following industries: construction,
manufacturing, retail, hospitaLity and catering, IT and customer service.
Access to a range of training courses to help people prepare for work, including
CV buiLding, job search, customer services skills, effective communication sl<ilLs
and essential skills
Tailored career guidance to help people find a newjob and career.
A broadened curriculum to embed wider societal incLusion topics such as,
LGBTQIA+, Mental Health First Aid to promote equaLity and provide a safe space
for participants.
The Employment Service delivered its services across council areas noted below under
the UK Shared Prosperity funded, PROSPER programme.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council
Ards and North Down Borough CounciL
Newry Mourne and Down District Council
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council
Belfast City Council
Stepping Stones Nl is deLighted and proud to report that on our second year under UK
Shared Prosperity Fund- PROSPER Programme we delivered:
154 people gained paid employment
393 economically inactive people with a disability or health condition
participated in employment support: exceeded target by 105%.
192 accredited qualifications were gained by 176 participants
Steppingstones Nl employment team continued to work together to achieve the best
possible outcomes of people with disabilities in our communities. The team were
instrumental in assisting employers and business to support our people to achieve
employment and volunteering dreams.
12

Stepping Stones NI'BE IN WORK" Academies
I MEMBER
51
HIRING
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I Vlliiouitolqsartd
shlftsov?Ilab1•
HIRINGI
cus
cus
SERVIC
DVIS
HCLTech'
• Prosper
,*4 Prosper
Our Employer partnerships are very extremely important to us, and we are grateful to
our employers for the opportunityto be a recruitment partner to ensure increased
inclusion and diversity in the workpLace. Our employer academies provide accredited
training in a group setting to a maximum of 10 people leading to a supported interview,
Leading to empLoyment for ringfenced jobs.
What our employer partners said (515 satisfaction rating)
'Kellywas amazing. She was organised and great at communicatingwith us. This
academywas by far the most successful and l am puttingthat down to l<elLy. It was
great being abLe to go in and chat with the candidates priorto their interview. l also
thinl< that Kelly's presence in the store was beneficialfor the candidates. We will most
definitely be doing more Academy's soon!"
"Bethany was excellent, Made the process very easy, was always on hand for support
and was always positive with any queries I had.
Great approach to understanding requirements of roles within Finnebrogue and
understandingthe opportunity offered"
"Working in partnership with Stepping Stones supported us delivering a successful
warehouse operative recruitment campaign. The candidates were very engaged with
the programme and took a Lot awayfrom it. We loo[< forward to our next academy Later
in 2025.
13

When asked would they recommend us to other employers
'1 have already"
"Yes- professional approach throughout aLI stages of the academy from pre-
planning and preparation, during and after.
"Yes, as this was a different approach to recruitment within the local community.
Seeing candidates complete the 3-day program showed a level of commitment
which can transfer to the workpLace.
"Yes- have recommended to another McDonald's in the group"
"Yes, I would"
What our participants said (Overall 9.5110 satisfaction rating)
' training team was incredibly supportive, and I learned so much about effective
communication, handling different customer needs, and maintaining a positive
attitude in every interaction. They really made the Learning experience engaging
and gave me the information to confidently handLe various situations.
'1 enjoyed the training as it improved my communication, problem-soLving, and
customer handling sl<iLls. The interactive sessions and real-life scenarios
boosted my confidence, while learning about company policies and service
tools helped me assist customers more efficiently"
'1 reaLly appreciated how Andrew (our instructor) focused on training us for a
customer-centric role. His approach made it clear how to understand and
address customer needs effectively, which will be valuable in real-worLd
scenarios"
'On learning--- Yes, before now I believed verbal communication was the most
important in communication but yesterday, I learned non-verbal communication
is more essential in communication"
"Yes, I've learned a lot from the training. It has helped me develop a deeper
understanding of customer-centric approaches, etfective communication sl<ills,
and problem-solving techniques. l also gained practical insights into handling
customer interactions more efficiently"
14

'1 learned a lot of things from the training the Iiey takeaways are usualLyfocused
on communication, empathy, problem-solving, and maintaining
professionalism.
Youth Service
The Youth Service delivered the followingthroughout the year:
5 people achieved paid employment
13 people progressed to education and training
19 referrals to the service
12 Accredited Qualifications
Duringthe yearthe Youth Service had:
Educationallcareers talks f rom: Belfast Metropolitan College and SERC {local
further education colleges), Connected Minds, Resurgam Trust, Tesco, Northern
Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, PSNI, Lisburn Library, Coca Cola HBC, the
young people also attended Belfast and Lisburn Job Fairs
WorkTasters: work experience from Little Wing Pizza, Sonas, Tesco, EE, MB
Chicken
Advice and Guidance: Talks from Citizens Advice Bureau (Benefits and
EntitLements), Links CounseLling (Mental Health), HYPE (RelationshipslPersonaL
Safety/LGBTQ+l, Relate Nl (Relationship and Sexuality Education}, Caroline
McGrath-Southeastern Trust ITal<e 5 Mental Health, Chi-me) Invisible Traffik
(Awareness of Human Trafficking and Exploitation)
EducationlTraining Providers for progression: Belfast Met, SERC, YMCA
Participation with an LGBTQ+ support group. Cara Friend
Personal Development- Mind Out Programme- Promotingthe Social and
Emotionalwellbeing of Young People, Money Matters Programme, Bells Lane
Horticultural Programme with LCCC, Compost Workshop LCCC, Belfast City
HalL (Local history tour), Archaeological Dig with Queens University Belfast
Accredited Training including Mental Health FirstAid
15

Activities/Trips-The Youth Service took part in the annual Lord Mayors Parade
in Lisburn, attended the annual Balmoral Show, visited The Ulster and Ulster
Transport Museums. The Youth Service also took part in an outreach programme
with R-space Gallery, in partnership with the Halifax Foundation Nl. As part of
this initiative, a local artist delivered a series of art workshops, giving ouryoung
peopLe the opportunity to create their own pieces of artwork-which were later
exhibited at R-space Gallery. This was a fantastic experience that allowed
participants to express their creativity9 develop new sl<ilLs, and showcase their
individual artistic talents.
We held a coffee morning to welcome the Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Kurtis
Dickson, to introduce our Youth Service and outline the range of programmes
and initiatives we deliver. The meeting offered a valuable opportunity to discuss
our ongoing worl< in supporting and empoweringyoung people within the
community. Following our coffee morning, we were delighted to be invited to the
Mayor's Office at the Civic Centre for Lunch with the mayor and a tour of the
impressive facilities. Itwas a wonderful opportunityto continue our discussions
and strengthen our connection with the mayor's office.
The Youth Service worked with Atlas Counselling Service, MACS- Supporting children
and Young People, Linlcs Counselling Service, YMCA Lisburn, Resurgam Trust. Emerge
Counselling Services and Lisburn City Council to provide opportunities for
employability, horticulture experience and counselling support.
16

Training
The training services at Stepping Stones Nl offers a comprehensive range of courses
designed to support individuals with Learning disabiLities and Learning difficulties in
achieving paid employment or meaningful placements. Tailored training is designed
and delivered to address specific needs of the cLient and business partners. we equip
participants with the sl<ills and confidence necessary to succeed in the workplace.
Our courses cover a variety of essential topics, includingfood safety & allergens, health
and safety, world host principles of customer service. These accredited qualifications
not only enhance empLoyability but also provide participants with valuable knowledge
and practical skills, build confidence and social skills. Additionally, we activeLy engage
with community groups to deliver our training services, communitygroups thrive from
the accredited and soft skills we deliver on both personal and professional basis.
We delivered to 176 participants workingwith business partners though bespol<e
academies and community groups throughout Northern Ireland, delivering 192
qualifications in total through Prosper.
Accredited qualifications delivered included:
Mental Health first aid Level 1
Emergency First aid Level 3
Paediatric First aid Level 3
Food Safety level 1
Food allergens level 2
Health and safety level 1
Fire safety level 1
Manual handling level 2
World Host Principles of customer care L2
Our soft skills focused on confidence building, communication and interview skills &
money matters.
Ourtraining team supported the achievement of 104 qualifications through Labour
Marl<et Partnerships.
Living Life Loving Life and ASDAN
A programme of both soft and accredited is delivered on a weekly basis to our Learning
disability participants through our Living Life Loving Life programme. Our outcomes for
all sessions are directly linked to improving social skills, communication, employability
and confidence through fun relevant activities and outings, as well as embedding
practice of functional skills, literacy, math and ICT. The introduction of ASDAN
quaLifications give participants the opportunity to gain accredited qualifications in
everyday life topics such as, independent travel and basic money management.
17

Our Stepping Stones Nl FootballTeam
Football is an extracurricular activitythat we offerwith a muLtitude of benefits forthe
ten footbaLI enthusiasts. Beyond the physical aspects of the sport, it fosters essential
life sl<ills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Engaging in football has
significantly improved participant's mental health by providing a positive outlet for
stress, boosting self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. The team has participated in
locaLfootbaLI competitions George Best Cup in Northern Ireland and in doing so
participants connected with peers, fostered friendships, learntvaLuable social skills
and creating lasting memories.
¥0
18

Labour Market Partnerships
Local Labour Marl<et Partnerships {LMPs} were established in each of the 11 Local
Government Districts ILGDS) in Northern Ireland INI) to deveLop a range of new
employability provisions that address the specific labour market needs and challenges
of the local areas. The Department for Communities funds Local Labour Market
Partnership ILMPI in each council area. Labour Market Partnerships develop
programmes to help people find empLoyment and training opportunities in their local
area. In the period between 15tApriL 2023 and 31, March 2024 we were successful in
tendering for LMP'S in both Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council and Armagh,
Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council LMP.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council
Stepping Stones Nl was awarded the contract by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council
to deLiver its LMPS:
MultlPLy SPARI<S programme that supporting 45 peopLe with disabilities to gain
outcomes in relation to advancement of Learning of numeracythrough bootcamps
Pathways to Employment for individuals with a Disability Programme Thrive 2 to
support and connect 40 peopLe with disabilities / long-term health conditions with
accredited qualifications, work placements and employment opportunities.
SPARKS: How did we do?
Outputs
Target
Actual Achieved
Referrals
40
45
Completers
36
40
Gaining accredited OCN entry level numeracy
10
Satisfaction Rate- soft slcills, numeracy*
employability and confidence
100¥0
Average 9.9 out of 10 satisfaction rating
Thrive 2: How did we do?
Outputs
Target
Achieved
No of participants in paid employment
Completers
29
Benefit 25 Participants
No of participants Recruited
Satisfaction Rate Evaluations
25
40
1000/0
100 % 10110 satisfaction
Gained qualifications
17
37
19

Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council LMP Outcomes
Stepping Stones Nl was awarded the contract to deliver its Disability Employment
Programme to support local people with a disability and heaLth outcomes into
employment. Through the programme and we successfully made difference in
employability and skills outcomes through its training provision and employment
support, worl<ingwith a range of employers.
Stepping Stones Nl supported 56 people with disabilities into employment in sectors
including retail, hospitality, catering, construction, warehousing, education, domestic
services, despatch and facilities working in partnership with local employers.
Outputs
Target
Actual
No of participants in paid employment
Completers
23140
26
40
40
Benefit 54 Participants
No of participants Recruited
Satisfaction Rate
50
56
100%
100% 10110
satisfaction
Evaluations
Gained qualifications
35
55
This is what our participants said about the LMP programmes.
"Stepping Stones Nl helped me to get my CV ready and I was able to apply forjobs. l am
really pleased to have got a job nowwith the trust doingwhat I do best. l am very
grateful forthe Labour Market programme and support from Steppingstones Nl.
'1 have never had a CV before so havingthat for the first time has really benefited me in
being able to see for myself what all I have achieved. l am also very grateful forthe
accredited training and support I have received. l am so happy to be in employment.
20

Social Enterprise
At the year-end 79 people with a learning disabilitywere engaging and participating in
trainingthrough Social Enterprise activity in:
Pink Elephant Cards
The Courtyard Cafe Lisburn
2nd Avenue Cafe Lisburn
Stepping Stones Picture Framing Lisburn
The Gatelodge Café Newtownards
Navigation House
Oursocial Enterprises provide the working environment for people with learning
disabilities to learn and develop employability skills in a realistic commercial
environment potentially Leading to a paid job or experiencingthe world of worlc in the
future. All income generated from our social enterprises is reinvested back into the
organisation to support service deliveryfor people who access our services.
Our Day Opportunities Contract with South- Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
supports the activities for people with a learning disability across all our social
enterprises to promote training and employment.
Pink Elephant Cards
This social enterprise produces a bespol<e range of handcrafted wedding stationery and
greeting cards and craft projects for people with a learning disability.
Picture Framing
As a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild our team provided a high-quaLityframing
service offering a wide range of frames and mounts.
Our cafes and catering: The Courtyard Café, 2nd Avenue Café and The Gatelodge
continued to trade and provide hospitality skills training for people with a learning
disability.
Lisburn Civic Centre: Duringthe year our cateringteam continued to provide catering
provision at Lisburn Civic Centre at Lisburn City Council offices in Lisburn, whilst at the
same time providingtraining and skills development for people with disabilities through
employment.
21

Navigation House
At Navigation House we introduced programmes and activities that enriched the lives of
people who are Neurodiverse and those with a learning disability.
Key activities during the year were as follows:
We developed a horticultural social enterprise activity focusing on the growing of
organic and pesticide free produce herbs, edible flowers, fruit and vegetables involving
people with a range of disabilities from the Lisburn and Castlereagh area. With the
addition of a Garden Shop selling baskets and containers of seasonal flowers and
plants, grown by the trainees
Two"Grow your own Roses" workshops
GROW YOUR OWN ROSE5
24 External event bookings and 4Workshops included overworkshops and external
hire events across several public, council and charity organisations.
Christmas 2024 events
Quality StandardsDuringthe year we successfully achieved revision of the BSI ISO:
9001.2015 in July 2024
22

SECTION 6: Structure, Governance and Management
Structure
Stepping Stones Nl is a company Limited by guarantee with charitable status,
incorporated in 1996 and commenced delivering services for people with learning
disabilities in Jan 1998.
Stepping Stones Nl has capacity for a Board of 10 Trustees as per Articles of
Association who meet 6 times a year and are responsible for settingthe strategic
direction and the policies in which the organisation is governed. There organisation has
two sub committees of the board a Finance Audit and Ris1< Committee (FAR} and a
Human Resource Governance and Nominations Committee IHRGN).
The Trustees serving from 1" April 2024- 31 March 2025 were as follows:
1. Michael Drayne {HRGN Committee}
2. Michael Scott ( Chair )
3. Cormac O Donnell
4. Sarah Johnston
5. ShirLeyAnn SmyLie
6. Lisa Beers
7. Jenna Gardiner
Company Secretary
A scheme of matters reserved forthe Board is in place and the day-to-day responsibility
for the implementation of the strategy and the provision of services is that of the Chief
Officer Paula Jennings. The Chief Officerworks alongside the Senior Team which has
operational, service delivery, marketing and finance responsibilities.
The Trustees manage the business of the company unless they are subject to any
restrictions imposed by the Companies Act, the articles or any special resolution.
Trustees of the Board should include at Least one memberwho is a parent or carer of a
person with a learning disability or a learning difficulty.
Stepping Stones Nl Chief Officer is Paula Jennings who has the sole responsibility of
leading and implementingthe strategies set by the board of Trustees.
23

Recruitment of Trustees
Board Recruitment and Appointment
The recruitment of new board members helps to strengthen the corporate governance
of the organisation. Stepping Stones Nl conducts a sl<ilLs and experience analysis of the
existing board prior to advertising or liaising in networks i.e. Institute of Directors IOD,
Engage Executive Recruitment, business community, to ensure the desired skills and
experience are required with a viewto attract suitable candidates to applywho meet
the requirements of the board and ultimately govern the charity.
Following an initiaL expression of interest submission and interviewthe suitability of
candidates is assessed on how the candidate meets the criteria, what skills and
influence they bring to the board and how their experience and attributes fit with the
organisational culture and vision and what they hope to achieve in the role. Following
meetingwith the Chair and Chief Officer a recommendation forthe appointment of new
Trustees is placed at HRGN Committee. This Committee WILI malle the
recommendation to the full board for approval and appointment as a Trustee of
Stepping Stones Nl.
The Office Bearers of the Company are appointed at the first meeting of the Board of
Trustees after the annuaL general meeting. All new members are elected to the board at
the AGM. A Trustee is on the Board fora period of3 yearswere upon such members must
retire but may be eligible for re-election. Trustees shalL be eLected at the annual general
meeting AGM by the members present.
Trustee Induction and Training
New Trustees undergo an induction to brief them on their role as a Trustee of the
company. New Trustees are provided with information to brief them on their Legal
obligations undercharityand company law i.e. the content of the Articles of Association,
the strategy and recent set of end of year accounts. All New Trustees are formalLy
inducted to the organisation with the Chief Officer with visits to all sites of the
organisation
Decision makingwithin Stepping Stones Nl
The Board of Trustees comprises a- Chairperson and Trusteeswho bringa range of skills
and experience appropriate to the requirements of the Board. They provide support to
the Chief Officer and their purpose is to contribute to the effective governance of
Stepping Stones Nl promoting the vision, mission, aims and objectives of the
24

organisation. The full board of Trustees meets bi monthly with sub group meetings and
full board meetings.
The Chief Officer provides a report to the Board of Trustees at each board meeting, with
updates on key performance indicators of the organisation presented on a BaLanced
Score Card format. This ensures that the Board of Trustees are fully informed of
activities, performance, and achievements of the organisation.
The chair of each subcommittee i.e FAR and HRGN reports to the board at each board
meeting.
AIL members of the Board of Trustees give up their time voluntarily and receive no
financial or other benefits from the organisation.
Risk Management
The Finance Audit and Risk (FARI sub group review corporate risk and financial
information with reporting back to the Board of Directors. The corporate risk register
details low, medium and high risk in the following areas
People, Operations and
Financialwhich is continuously reviewed. Where appropriate mitigation steps are put in
place to protect the organisation against risk.
The organisation has implemented the ISO quality standard 9001.2015 during the
reporting period and was awarded reaccreditation following audit inspection.
25

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
FINANCIAL REVIEW 202412025
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS
2025
2024
7.9 % 2,253,774 2,074,894
46.6Yo
96,910
51,703
10,3 % 944,657
847,747
11.61 472,927
417,985
7.91Yo 1,617,836 1,490,317
io%
20%
3%
Income increased by:
Surplus increased significantly by:
Reserves have strengthened by:
Trading income rose by:
Wages & salaries increased by:
Spending on charitable activities up;
Staff increased by:
Cash reserves increased by:
As always, we strive to obtain value for money in aLI our purchases while tryingto
remain socially responsible. Consistentlywe are lookingfor savings, income generation
and the tendering our services into the supply chain.
We would Like to than1< who invested in us duringthe year: Councils (LMP and catering
provision), Westminster IUKSPF), South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust
ISETRUST), companies, employers and individuals who generously supported us during
this reporting period providing the financial support we need to deliver our seNices and
programmes.
Thanl<you also to our staff team and volunteers who continuously go the extra mile and
our customers who buy from our social business.
Objectives and policies
Stepping Stones Nl activities expose it to severaLfinancial risks including credit risk,
cash flow risk and liquidity risk. The use of financial derivatives is governed by the
charity's poLicies approved by the board of Trustees, which provide written principles
on the use of financial derivatives to manage these risl<s. The charity does not use
derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.
Reserves Policy
An extensive reserves base is essential forstepping Stones Nl to continue to manage
risk and deliver its services and social enterprises. The Trustees of Stepping Stones Nl
wish to continue to build a general level of reserves (excLuding tangible fixed assets)
that has a target of six months of unrestricted expenditure.
26

Stepping Stones Nl needs to maintain this level of reserve forthe folLowing:
Cash flow to ensure amounts due to creditors and fuLfilment of contracts and
leases.
Gaps and loss in funding provision
OrganisationaLwind up and redundancy pay
New development plans for service delivery in the future.
Stepping Stones Nl reserves can be understood under the following areas..
Protected Funds: to sustains and support at least 6 months organisationaL
costs.
Designated Funds: to prepare for potential redundancy costs at the end of a
funding cycle.
Infrastructure Funds: to support the refurbishment and renewals of Stepping
Stones Nl social enterprises and assets.
Opportunity Funds: to expLore future opportunities and projects that benefit
people with disabilities.
Cashflow
Core funding activities are secured untiL March 2026 through Shared Prosperity Fund.
Stepping Stones Nl must ensure that adequate reserves are available to bridge any
potential shortfall in funds and to alLow enough time for replacement or additional
funds to be found. Legally, Stepping Stones Nl must be able to meet its debts as they
fall due. Since restricted funds can only be used for the purpose forwhich they are
given, Stepping Stones Nl must always ensure that it can support at any given time
(from its reserves cash or otherwise) viable and contracted programmes shouLd it ever
encounter difficulties. The cash reserves protected funds enables the organisation to
meet its obLigations for six months if no funding becomes available. Steppingstones Nl
must also ensure that it is able to respond to any cashflow problems as a result in
delays from eitherfunders or debtors.
Plans for future periods
The implementation of the organisation's strategywiLI support the growth and
development of the charity and as such enhance the lives of and create a better future
for people with learning disabilities and learning difficulties.
Steppingstones Nl wilLworkto ensure that we continuously have opportunities to
ensure continuation of service provision and opportunities for people with disabilities
and through with barriers to learning into the future.
27

Cash flow risk
Stepping Stones Nl activities expose it primarilyto regular payments from funders. This
is carefully managed and monitored bythe FAR committee.
Credit risk
Stepping Stones Nl principal financiaL assets are ban1< balances and cash, trade and
other receivables, and investments. Stepping Stones Nl credit risk is primarily
attributable to its trade receivables.
Stepping Stones Nl has no significant concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread
over many counterparties and customers.
Liquidity risk
To maintain liquidityto ensure that sufficient funds are available for ongoing operations
and future developments.
Disclosure of information to auditor
Each trustee has taken steps that they ought to have taken as a Trustee in orderto
make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the
Charity's auditor is aware of that information. The Trustees confirm thatthere is no
relevant information that they know of and of which they l<now the auditor is unaware.
Statement of Trustees Responsibilities
The Trustees (who are the Directors of Stepping Stones Nl for the purposes of company
law) are responsible for preparing the report of the Trustees and the financial
statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting
Standards (United Kingdom generally accepted Accounting Practice), including
Financial Report Standard 102"The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK
and Republic of Ireland.
Company law requires the Trustees to prepare a financial statement for each financial
year which give a true and fairview of the state of affairs of the charitable company and
of the incoming resources and application of resources, including income and
expenditure, of the charitabLe company forthat period. In preparingthose financial
statements, the Trustees are required to:
Select suitable accounting policies and the applythem consistently
Observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP
Make judgements and estimates that are reasonabLe and prudent
Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is
28

inappropriate to presume that the charitable companywiLI continue in business.
The Trustees are responsible for l<eeping proper accounting records which disclose
with reasonable accuracy at any time the financiaL position of the charitable company
and to enable them to ensure that the financial statement complywith the Companies
Act 2006. The Trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the
charitable company and hence fortaking reasonable steps forthe prevention and
detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Valuing ourvolunteers and donations.
Stepping Stones Nl values, the contribution that our volunteers bringto the organisation
and the donations that we receive each year. We are grateful and thank them fortheir
supportwhich allow us to fulfil our charity objectives.
Awards received during the period
Chief Officer Paula Jennings Leader of the Year at Social Enterprise Awards Nl and
Highly commended at the Social Enterprise Ul< Awards
29

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMEI NTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
STATEMEI NT OF DIRECTORS RESPONSIBILITIEI S
Tlie dii'ectoi's are i'esponsible for pi'eparing the Directors, Report and the financial statements in
accordance with applicable law and regulations.
Coinpany Law I'equires the dii'ectoi's to pi'epare financial statements foi. each financial year.
Tlie Ti'ustees, who al'e also dii'ectoi's for the pui'poses of coinpany law, present theii. report and the
financial statements of the cliai'ity foi. the year ended 3 1st March 2025. Tlie Trustees confii'm tliat tliey
comply with tlie requirements of tlie Chai'ities Act (Northern Ii'eland) 2008 and Accounting and Reporting
by Cliai'ities: Statement of Recommended Practice which applies to chai'ities pi'epariiig theii. accounts in
accoi'dance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable iii the UK and Republic of Ireland
(FRS 102) (effective l Januaiy 2015).
Under coinpany law tlie directors miist not appi'ove the financial statements unless tliey are satisfied
that tliey give a trLie and fair view of tlie state of affairs of the company and of the sui'plus or deficit of
the coinpany foi. that pei'iod. In preparing tliose financial stateinents, the directors are requii'ed to:
select suitable accounting policies and tlien apply them consistently.
make judgements and estimates tliat are reasonable and prudent.
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappi'opriate to
presuine tliat tlie company will continue in business.
The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting i'ecords tliat are sufficient to sliow
and explain the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial
position of the company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with tlie
Coinpanies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence
for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
In so far as the directors are aware:
there is no relevant audit information of which tlie company's auditoi. is unaware; and
the directoi's Iiave taken all steps that they ought to have taken to malce tliemselves aware
of any relevant audit information and to establish tliat the auditor is aware of that information.
By order of the board:
MICHA
L SCOTT
DIRECTOR
SHIRLEY AN
DIRECTOR
SMYLIE
DATE
4tli Decernber 2025
DATE
4th December 2025
Page 30

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THI Y[4 AR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR TO THE MEMBERS,
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of Stepping Stones Nl (the 'charity') for the yeai. ended i l March 2025 which
compi'ise the Stateinent of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Stateinent of Cash Flows and the notes to the financial
statement5, including a suminai'y of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting fi'ainewoi'k that has been applied
in theii- prepai-ation is appl icable law and United Kingdoin Accounting Standai'ds, including Financial Repoiling Standai'd
102 Tliefiiiancial Re])oi'ling Siandai'd applicable in tlle UK apid Repiiblic ofli'ela17d {United Kingdom Genei'ally Accepted
Accounting Practice).
n oui. opinion, the financial slateiments..
give a true and fair view of the state of the chai'itable coimpany's affaii's as at J l March 2025 and of its incoming
resoui'ces and application of resoui'ces, including its incoine and expenditure for the year then ended.
have been properly pi'epared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standai'd applicable in the UK and
Republic of li'eland (FRS 102) (effective l Janauary 2015) - (Chai'ities SORP (FRS102)), the Financial Reporting
Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ii'eland (FRS 102).
have been prepared in accoi-dance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standai'ds on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)) and applicable law. Our
i'esponsibilities undei. those standai'ds are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the account5
section of oui. report. We al'e independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to oui.
audit of the accounts in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standai'd, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities
in accoi'dance with tliese i'equii'einents. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to
provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relatinG to going concern
We have nothing to repoit in respect of the following mattel's in relation to which the ISAS (UK) require us to repoit to you
where:
the trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not
appi'opriate. or
the trustees have not disclosed in the financial stateinents any identified material unceitainties that may cast
significant doubt about the charity's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period
of at least twelve months from the date when the financial statements ai'¢ authoi'ised for issue.
Other information
The other information compi'ises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our
auditor's report thereon. Th¢ trustees are responsible for the othei. information. Our opinion on the financial staternents do¢s
not cover the othei. infoi'mation and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any fonn
of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with oui. audit of the financial statements. our responsibility is to read the othei. infoiThation and, in doing so,
consider whethei. the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in
the audit or otherwise appeal's to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or appai'ent material
misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material
rnisstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material
misstatement ofthis other infonnation, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Page31

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR TO THE MEMBERS,
Matters on ivhich we are required to report by exception
In the light of the knowledge and understandints of the Trustees and ils environment obtained in the ¢ouise of the audit, we
have not identified Inaterial Inisslaleinents in the Trustees, Report.
We have nothing to report in respect of the followin(v Inatters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to
report to you if, in our opinion:
sufficient accounting recoi'ds have not been kept. or
the financial stateinents are not in aai'eernent with the accounting i'ecords; or
ceitain disclosui'es of trustees, reiniinei'ation specified by law are not Inade; or
we have not I'eceived all the inforimation and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of trustees
As explaiiied Inore fully in the Stateinent of Trustees, Responsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity
for the pui'pose of company law, al'e responsible for the pi'eparation of the financial stateinents and for being satisfied that
they give a true and fail- view, and for such internal control as the directoiB delei'inine is necessary to enable the preparation
of financial statements that al'e fi'ee fi-oin Inaterial Inisstateinent, whether due to fi'aud or eiTOr.
Ii) pi'eparing the financial stateinents, the kn'ustees are I'espoiisible for assessing tlie charity's ability to continue as a going
coiicern, disclosin(r as applicable. Inattei's i-elated to gointy concern and using the going conceim basis of accounting unless
the trustees either intend to liquidate the coinpany or to cease operatlons, oi- have no realistic altemative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibilitie5 for the audit of the financial statements
Oiir objectives are to obtain reasonable assui'ance about whethei. the financial statements as a whole are free froin material
Imisslaleinenl, wlietlier due to fi'aud or ei'i'or, and to issiie an auditor's i'epoit Ilial includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance
is a hioh level of assurance, but is not a guarantee tlial an audit conducted in accordance wilh ISAS (UIC) will always detect a
Inaterial Ini5Stateinent when it exists. Misstateinents can arise fi'om fraud oi. en'or and are considered Inaterial if, individually
or in the a(Fnregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of
these financial stateiments.
Irregularities, includinly fi'aud, are instances of non-coinpliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line witli
our I'esponsibililies, outlined above, to detect Imatei'ial misstaleiments in i'espect of iri'egulai'ilies, including fraud. The extent
to which our pi'ocedures al'e capable of detecting irregularities, including fi'aud, is detailed below.
Explanation as to ivhat extent the audit wa5 considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud
The objectives of our audit in respect of fraud, are to identify and assess the risks of material misstateinent of the financial
stateinents due to fi'aud; to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regai'ding the assessed risks of Inaterial inisstateinent
due to fraud, through designing and iinpleinentinu appi'opi'iate responses to those assessed risks. and to respond
appropi-iately to instances of fi'aud or suspected fraud identified dui'in(r the audit. However, Ilie priinary responsibility for the
prevention and detection of fraud rests with both tnanageinent and those chartFed with governance of the Chai'ity.
Our approach was as follows..
We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the charity and considered
that the most significant are the Coinpanies Act 2006 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK
and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102) {effective l Janaury 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102).
Enquiry of Inanageinent, those charued with governance and the entity's solicitors around actual and potential
litigation and claiins.
Enquiry of entity staff in compliance fitnctions to identify any instances of any non-coinpliance with laws and
regulations.
Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with
applicable laws and regulations.
Page 32

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL sTATE￿IENTs
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST fvIARCH 2025
REPORT OF THE INDEPEIYDENT AUDITOR TO THE TrIEIWIBERS'
Auditing the risL of management ovei'ridc ofconlixils. including thiough testing journal enti'ies and otlier
adjuslm¢nts for appropi'iateness. and evaluating the business rationale of significant transactions outsidc the
noi'mal course of business.
As pait of an audit in a¢¥oi'dancc witli ISAS (UK) Ive cxcrcise pi'ofessional judgeinent and maintain pi'ofessional scepticism
Ihi'oughoiit the audit. We also..
Identity and asse55 tl)e risks ot n)aterial misslalement of the tinancial slaleinenls. whether duc to traud or eriDr.
design and perfoi'm audil PIDcedui'es I'esponsive lo those risks, and obtain audit evidence that IS Sutficienl and
appropriate to pi'ovide a basis foi. our opinion. The I'isk ot not detecting a material misstateinent resulting Irom
traud is higl)ei' tl)an foi. one resulting fiotn ei'i'oi.. as fi'aud may involve collusion, foi'g¢i'y. intentional omissions,
misrepirsentations. 01- the override of internal conirol.
Obtain an undei'slanding ot intei'nal control I'elevant to thc audit in oi'dei. to design audit procedures that are
appiopi'iatc in the cii'cumstanccs, bul not for the pui'poscs of expi'essing an opinion on the elfecliveness of the
¢ompany's internal control.
Evaluate the appropi'iateness ot accounting policies used and the reasonablenes5 of accounting estiinates and
relalcd disclosuiEs made bv the dii'ecloi's.
Conclude on the appropi'iateness ot tlic dii'ectors, use of thc going Loncem basis ot accounting and. based on the
audit evidencc obtained. Ivlietliei. a matci'ial uncertaintv eiists related lo events oi. conditions that may cast
signiticant doubt on Ilie cliai'itv's ability lo continue as a going concern. If we conclude tliat a material unceitainty
exists, Ive arc required to draiv attcntion in our auditorfs report to the related disclosui'es in the financial stateinents
oi.. if such disclosures al'e inadequatc. to modify our opinion. Oui. contylusions al'e based on the audit evidence
obtained up to oui. audilols report. Hoivever, fului'e events or Londilions may causc the chai'ity lo cease to continue
as a going conLern.
Evaluate the overall pi'c5cntalion. structui'e and content ofihe financial statements, including tl)e disclosures. and
Ivliethei. the finanLial staleinenls repi'esent thc undei'lying Ii'ansactions and events in a mannei. that achieves fail.
Pl'e5enlalion.
A fui'iliei. d¢scription ofoui. I'esponsibilities for the audit ot the tinanci<il slat¢m¢nts is located on the Financial Reporting
Council's ivebsite at: http.'/lwiviv.frc.oig.uklaudilot%i'esponsibilities. This desci'iption foiins part of our auditoi s report.
We communicate with those charged ivith govei'nance regarding. among other malleis, th¢ planned scope and liming of the
audit and signiticant Iinding5, including any significant deficiencies in intcmal control that we identify during our audit.
Use of our report
This I'eport is made solely to the charitable company's membei's. as a body. in accordanLe with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the
Companie5 Avl 2006 and I'cgulalions made under that Acl. Oui. audit ivoi'L has been undertaken so that we might slate to the
cl)ai'itable Lompany's meinbei's those maltei's we are I'equiird lo state to tlietn in an auditors, repoit and foi. no oihei. purpose.
To thc fullest extent pertnitted by laiv. we do not accept or assume responsibility lo anyone other than the chai'ilable ¢ompany
and its membei's as a body.
r our audit ivoi'k, foi. this I'epoit. or for the opinions we have foi'med.
LAWRENCE SHEARER F.C.A., Senior Statutory Auditor
FOR AND ON BEHALF ofi O'HARA SHEARCR, Statutory Auditor
O'HAtL4 SHEARER
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
AND STATUTORY AUDITORS
547 Falls Road
Bclfasl
BTII 9AB
Dated:
4th Decembcr 2025
Page 33

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Accounting Convention and Basis of Accounting
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention,
Tlie financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities:
Statement of Recominended Practice applicable to chai'ities preparing their accounts in accoi-dance witli
tlie Financial Repoiting Standard wliich applies in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)
(effective l January 2015) - (Cliai'ities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Repoiting Standard applicable
in tlie UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
Going Concern
At the tiine of approving the financial statements, tlie trustees, have a reasonable expectation that tlie chai'ity
has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for tlie foreseeable future. Thus the trustees,
continue to adopt the going concern basis of accoiinting in preparing tlie financial statements.
Income Recognition
Income is recognised wlieii tlie Charity lias entitleinent to the funds, any perfoi'mance conditions attaclied
to the item(s) of incoine have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount
can be measured reliably.
Interest Receivable
Interest on fiinds held is incliided wlien receivable and the amount can be measiired reliably; this is
norinally upon notification of tlie interest paid or payable by tlie Bank.
Resources Expended
All expenditure is accounted for on an acci'iials basis and is classified under lieadings that aggregate all
costs i'elated to the category.
Fundraising costs inclLide the costs of advertising, producing publications, pi'inting and mailing fLindraising
material, and staff costs in these areas.
Costs of charitable activities include direct expenditure incurred through operational activities.
Govei'nance costs represent the costs associated with tlie governance arrangements of the cliarity wliicli
relate to the general running of the charity as opposed to those costs associated with fundraising or
cliaritable activity.
Fixed Assets
All tangible fixed assets are recorded at cost.
Page 34

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEI AR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Conlinued
Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated to write off tlie cost of fixed assets ovei. their estiinated useful lives
at the following rates:
Fi'eehold Propeity
Impi'ovements to propeity
Fixtures and fittings
Computer equipment
20/0 Straight line
l O % straight line
200/0 Sti'aight line
25 % sti'aight line
Investments
Unlisted equity investinents are initially recoi'ded at cost, and subsequently measured at fail. value. If fail.
value cannot be reliably measiired, assets are measured at cost less impairment.
Listed investments are measured at fair value with changes in fail. value being recognised in income or
expenditure.
Repairs and Reneivals
All repairs and renewals are wi'itten off as incurred
Pension Costs
The cliai'ity does currently operate a defined conribution pension scheme.
Debtors and Prepayments
Ti'ade debtors and otSiei' debtors are recognised at the settlement ainount diie aftei. any discount offei'ed.
Pi'epayments are valued at the ainoiint prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
Creditors and Provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised wliere tlie chai'ity lias a present obligation resulting from a past
event that will probably i'esult in tlie ti'ansfer of funds to a thii'd pai'ty and tlie amount due to settle the
obligation can be measured oi. estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions al'e noi'inally recognised at
their settlement amount after allowing foi. any trade discounts due.
Financial Instruments
The Chai'ity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial
instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subseqiiently
measured at theii. settleinent vallie with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at
amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Foreign Currencies
Monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rates of exchange
ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foi'eign currencies are translated into stei'ling at the rate
of exchange ruling at the date of the transaction. Exchange differences al'e taken into account in arriving
at the net movement in funds.
Page 35

STEPPING STONES NI
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Coiiliiiiied
Fund Accounting
Unrestricted fiinds are general funds that are available foi. use at tlie Trustees, discretion in furtherance of
the charitable objectives of the cl)ai'ity unless the funds Iiave been designated for otlier purposes.
Designated funds al'e unrestricted funds set aside by the ti'ustees out of unreslricted funds for specific
futLire purposes.
Resti'icted fuiids are tliose given for use in a particular area or foi. specific puiposes, the Lise of which is
restricted to tliat area or purpose.
Endownineiit funds are siibject to specific conditions by donoi's that the capital must be maintained by the cliai'ity.
The incoine received from funders depends on the charity meeting detailed criteria on expenses plans.
Grants given undei. sucli conditions are also given siibject to tliem beii)g obtained for in connection with tlie furtlierance of tlie
charity's aiins and objectives.
Siicli incoine cali be repayable to tlie fundei. if sucli expeiises plaiis and ci'itei'ia are not inet.
Sucli incoine is only deferi'ed wheii tlie donor specifies tliat tlie granvdonation must oiily be Lised iii futLiIE accounting periods.
or tlie doiior has imposed conditions wliicli must be Inet befoi'e tlie chai'ity lias uiiconditioiial entitleinent.
Incoine fi'oin cliaritable activities includes income received under contract oi. wliei'e entitlemeiit to grant funding is subject
to specifie pei'formance conditions is recognised as earned as the related goods/services are provided.
Grant income inclLided in tliis categoiy pi'ovides funding to suppoit pei'fom]ance activities and is recognised whei'e
thei'e is entitleinent, certainty of receipt and the amount can be imeasured with sufficient reliability.
Incoine is defeii'ed when.. feeslperforinance related graiits are received in advance of the performance/event to
which tliey relate.
Reserves Policy
Stepping Stones Nl reserves policy is to maintain a sufficient level of reserves to enable operating activities
to be maintained for a period of at least 3 to 6 montlis in the event of majoi. funding streains eiidiiig. Tlie reserves policy
also takes account of coveriiig costs in the event of closui'e, to cover irdiindancies, rents, and fees that are due including
statutory audit fees. It also takes accolint of potential risks aiid contingencies that may arise fi'om time to time.
Stepping Stones NI maintain unrestricted reseives if acciiied should be used for the purposes whicli meet the aiins
and objectives of Stepping Stones Nl. Tlie board should monitoi- and review the amount of unrestricted reseives
montlily in addition to tlie level of any resti'icted reserves.
Pag¢ 36

STEPPIIYG STOINC4 S Nl
STATEINIENT OF FlIYIKNCI,IL trlCTIVITIES
or.lti
I tlie 'iNd e
4OR THE I'EAR ENI DCD JIST NI IARCH 2025
¢rtdilui'¢ aeeourtt
Ilni'estrieted Rtsti'ieted Ci ndoivnm¢nt
Funds
Fundy
TOT.4L
2025
TOTAL
2024
NOTES
IINCOINIE AND ENDOWNITrlENTS FRONI:
Donations and legacies
Iiicome from iiivesimenis
Incoiiie froin cliaritable activities
InLonie froiii oihei trading acliviiies
12,752
15,431
485,262
489.585
12,752
14,975
15,431
9,872
1,721,006 1,575,312
504.585
474.735
1.235,744
15,000
TOTAL IiJcof*IE AYD ENDOII'NI Il.IE4 IYTS
1,003,030
1,250,744
2,253,774 2,074,111)4
EXPENDITIIRC ON:
Expenditiire on illising funds
Expeiidituie oil cliariiable activities
Otl)er expendittire
Net 8tJinslllossesl on investtnents
155.208
681.659
155,208
166,762
2,001,656 1.856,429
1.319,997
TOTAL RESOIIRCES EXPENDED
836,867 1.319.997
2,156,864 2,023.191
NEI T INCONIC4 IIE,NPEIYDITIIRI)
166,163
169,253)
96,910
SI,703
Transfers betiveen funds
NET ￿.[ovE￿I IEI NT IYI FIINDS
166,163
169,253}
96,910
51,703
RECONCILIATIOIN OF f4ilNDS
TOTAL FIINDS BROIIGHT foRIVARD
707,963
139,784
847,747
796,044
Prior year adjusinient
TOTIIL FlINDS CARRICI D f4ORIVARD
874,126
711,531
944,657
847,747
The Staternent of fin4?nciAI Activities inclu(le5 #11 g#inb and 1o55es in tlie yei)r therefurt a
Sldltemcnl of Totil Recuuwrt15ed G4irts Lobses h:Is rtot b¢tn prepai'td
All of the abovt amounts relate to eontinuing activities
The o¢counting poli¢ie$ the Jkoies form ptsrt of ihese fi￿&￿¢1￿1 $l*t¢mtnis
Pyge 37

STEPPING STONES NI
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT 31ST MARCH 2025
2025
2024
NOTES
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
Investments
323,759
342,933
10
323,759
342,933
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks
Debtoi's and prepayments
Cash at bank
Casli in hand
12,125
193,344
709,701
3,459
918,629
11,424
79,028
690,882
1,074
782,408
12
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
13
(144,607) (98,948)
NET CURRENT ASSETSI(LIABILITIES)
774,022
683,460
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT ASSETSI{ LIABILITIES )
1,097,781
1,026,393
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year
l4
(153,124) (178,646)
NET ASSETSI(LIABILITIES)
944,657
847,747
FUNDS:
ENDOWNMENT FUNDS
UNRESTRICTED INCOME FUNDS
15116117118119120
874,126
707,963
RESTRICTED INCOME FUNDS
15116117118/19120
70,531
139,784
944,657
847,747
APPROVED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS .
MICHAEL S
DIRECTOR
OTT
SHIRLEY ANN S
DIRECTOR
YLIE
DATE
4th Deceinber 2025
DATE
4th DeceInber 2025
The aceompllnying ac£ouNting poli£ies and notes form pirt of these financial statements
Page 38

STEPPINC STONES NI
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
2025
2024
NOTES
CASHFLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Casli genei'ated from operations
16
38,156
168,666
Net cash inflowl(outflow) from operating activities
38,156
168,666
Investing activities
Investment incoine
Pui'chase of tangible fixed assets
Acquisition of investments
Amoiints owed between funds
Disposal of investments
Disposal of tangible fixed assets
(17,212) (11,590)
io
260
Net cash from investing activities
(16,952) (11,590)
Increasel(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents in the year
21,204
157,076
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
691,956
534,880
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
li
713,160
691,956
Relating to..
Cash at banli and in hand
11
713,J60
691,956
The AccompallyiThg accounting policies and nutes form pai't of these finalneilll st￿teMentS
Page 39

STEPPING STONES N
NOTES TO THE FIIYANI CIJIL ST,ITEJllENTS
FOR I'HF. YEAR ENDED 31ST II 1.4RCH 202$
I. DONATIONS ANI D LEGACIES
UTrreslrictod
FuThd5
Unre5trlcte
Re51Ticied
Fun(l$
Fthnds
2025
2024
DonBlions
Le￿CleS
12,752
14.975
14.975
1?.752
14.975
14.975
2. INCO￿1£ FROTr¥l IN￿'EST￿L IENTS
Unrestricted
Fund5
Unrc5tritie
Fu*(ly
Re5ti'ielod
2025
2024
Income Iroiii UK Iisied invesinieiiis
Income ITOlii casli
9.87?
9,872
9.872
J. INC0￿IE FRof41 CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
unir51ricie
Fun(Is
Re5trlcled
Fwn(Is
Unrcsti'ictcd
Reslrlcte
Funds
2025
2024
Souili E￿Ier17 Health aiid Socid Care Trust
UK Sliar¢d Prosperity Fund
Bally MioniJs Charitable Fund
The Rank Foiiiidaiioii
Lisbiirii aiid Ca511¢r¢a¥TlI City Council
AmiabTlI. B￿lbrid￿Te and CY2iBavon Couiicil
Capital Graiii Released
Sundry iiicoiiie
322.817
32?817
1,155,000
10,000
302,789
302,789
1.100,000
1,155,000
10,000
1,100,000
152,835
9,460
15.000
167,835
9,460
26,920
104,033
25,522
?6,920
104.033
25.522
16,048
25,522
16,048
L¢ss". Deferred ltt¢oiii¢ (See Noie 12)
485.76?
.235,744
1.7?1.(K16
318.837
.256.475
1,575.312
4. INCOIWIE rftofvi urHER TRADING Acfii'ITIIS
Unresirietcll
F￿1)dS
Rt%trittod
Urtresiritied
Fund.
Rosti'ictod
2025
2024
TradiiiLp Income
Fundraising
47?,927
3.653
4.080
8,9?5
47?.927
18,653
4.080
8.925
417.985
27,375
3.458
5,956
417.985
47,330
3,458
5.956
15.000
19.901
489.585
15,000
504.585
454.774
19,961
474.735
P88¢ 40

.STEPPING STONES NI
NOTES TO THL FINklNClIKL STATEIIIEINTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDEDJIST PwlARCH 2025
5. EXPENDITURE ON 114ISINC FUiYDS
UDrestrleted Restrieie
Fuiids
UJire51rictcd Rt5trieted
Fund5
Fund5
202S
20Z4
Dlreot ¢xpendilure
ISS,208
155.208
165,501
1,261
166,762
6. EXPENDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTivrriES
UNrc5tricted Restrlcted
Furtds
Unr¢$trict¢d R¢stricled
Funds
2025
2024
Direct expeiiditure
609,422 1,199,687 1.809,109
S42,687 1,098,697 1,641,J84
Support Costs aiid GovernAnce costs
72,237
120,310
192,547
124,898
90,147
215,045
TOTAL EXPEINDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTivfTIES
681,6S9 1,J19,997 2.001,656
667,58S 1,188,844 1,856,429
7. NET GAIN'SIILOSSES} ON IYVESTINIEi¥rs
Net {gainsylosse5 on invesimenis
Pa8e41

STEPPING STONES NI
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
7. NET (OUTGOING)I INCOMING RESOURCES FOR THE YEAR
This is stated after charging/(crediting)
2025
2024
Auditors remunei'ation
Depi'eciation
3,996
36,386
4,062
42,510
8. SALARY COSTS AND EMOLUMENTS
2025
2024
Total staff costs were as fol lows:
Wages and salaries - key management personnel
Wages and salaries - other staff
Einployei. social secLlI'ity costs - key management personnel
Employei. social secui'ity costs - other staff
Employei. social secui'ity costs - SMP & SPP Recoverable
Employei. social security costs - Einployment Allowance
245,102
232,934
1,143,731 1,056,414
61,874
56,500
167,129
150,470
(6,001)
1,617,836 1,490,317
Tlie average monthly numbei. of employees dLlI'ing the year was as follows:
2025
Number
2024
Number
87
105
Trustees, remuneration and benefits
Thei'e was no ti'ustees, remuneration or other benefits for tlie year ended 31 st March 2025. (2024: £Nil)
Trustees, Expenses
There wei'e no trustees, expenses paid for the year ended 31 st March 2025. (2024: £Nil)
Page 42

STEPPING STONES NI
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
Freehold Improveinents Fixtures & Computer
Property
to Property
Fittings
Equipment
Total
COST
As at 1st April 2024
563,028
42,335
190,470
60,006
855,839
Additions
Disposals
8,113
9,099
17,212
As at 31 st March 2025
563,028
42,335
198,583
69,105
873,051
DEPRECIATION
As at 1st April 2024
285,407
17,679
157,455
52,365
512,906
Cliarge for year
Eliminated on disposal
11,261
4,233
14,725
6,167
36,386
As at 31 st March 2025
296,668
21,912
172,180
58,532
549,292
Net book value 2025
266,360
20,423
26,403
10,573
323,759
Net book value 2024
277,621
24,656
33,015
7,641
342,933
11. CASH AT BANK
2025
2024
Danske Bank - Current Accounts
Danske Bank - Investment Accounts
95,370
614,33l
126,784
564,098
709,701
690,882
Page 43

STEPPING STONES NI
NOTES TO THF. FINI .4IN CIAL STATETrI ILYI TS
FOR TFIE YEAR ENDED 31ST ￿lARcH 2U25
12. DEBTORS: ATrI IOIINTS FALLING DLIE WITHIIN ONE YEAR
202S
2024
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments
199,556
57.684
14.191
7.153
16.212)
193.344
79.028
13. CREDITORS: AI¥IOLINTS FALLING DIIE IVITTrllIY ONE YEAR
202S
2024
Bank loans and overdrafts Nole 17)
Trade creditois
Value Added Tax
Social security costs and oilier iayes
Oilier creditors
Deterred incoine
Siindry creditors and aC¢Tiied expenses
54,299
34,093
90.308
64,855
144,607
98,948
14. CREDITORS: A1￿1011NTs FALLING DIIE AFTER IllORE THAN ONI E YEAR
2025
2024
Baiik loans
D¢f¢rred capittLI fiindiiig
153.12di
178,646
153,124
178.646
IS. ANALYSIS or NET ASSETS BETWEIEN FIINDS
Tangible
Debiots
nd
Investments Pi¢payn)enis
Casli ai
Baiik and
Creditors
aiid Accrua15
Traiisfers
beiiveen Fuiids
Assets
2025
2024
Uiirestricted Funds
323,759
205,469
489,505
(144,6071
874,126
707.963
Resiricied Funds
223,655
1153,1241
70.531
139,784
Toial Funds
323.759
205,469
713,160
1297.7311
944,657
847,747
16. RECONCILIATION OTr 01)ERATINI G PROFIT TO NI ET CASH FLOIV fROTrI l OPERATING
ACTIVITIES fiROfvI OVERATIING ACTIVITIES
2025
2024
Operating Surplus/lDeficitl for the year
Depreciation
Movenienl in stocks
Movement tn debtors
Movement in crediloT5
IGainllLoss on investment5
IProfiiyLoss oli disposal of Fixed Assets
96,910
36,386
17011
51,703
42,510
18431
116,698
141,4021
20.137
12601
Nel cash inflowlloutfloivl fi'om operatLllE Jlctivitlts
38,1.56
168,666
Pw44

TEPPIYG STONES IYI
NOTES TO THE F IIN.4INCIAL STIITENI IEINTS
FOR TTrIE I'EAR EIJDLD 31ST f*l.4RCH 2025
17. fvIOVETrI IEYI T IN fuNDS
Net l*loveinent
in Fuiids
2025
Opening
BAlaJice
Tr4I115fcr5
betsi'een Funds
Prior ye￿r
Adjustment
Income
Expenditure
2025
2024
un￿striCted Funds
707,963 1,003,030
1836,8671
166,163
874,126
707.963
Restrict¢d Funds
139,784 1,250,744 15.319,9971
169,2531
70,531
139.784
847,747 2,2.$3,774 12,156,864)
96,910
944,6S7
847,747
Page 45

STEPPING STONES NI
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
18. UNRESTRICTED INCOME FUNDS
2025
2024
Balance at 1st April 2024
707,963
789,025
Incoming resources for the year
ResoLlI'ces expended for the year
Transfer between funds
1,003,030
(836,867)
798,458
(833,086)
(46,434)
Balance at 3 1st March 2025
874,126
707,963
19. RESTRICTED INCOME FUNDS
2025
2024
Balance at I st April 2024
139,784
7,019
Incoming resoui'ces for the year
Resources expended foi. the year
Transfer between funds
1,250,744
(1,319,997)
1,276,436
(1,190,105)
46,434
Balance at 31 st March 2025
70,531
139,784
20. DESIGNATED FUNDS
Designated funds ￿'t utm'estricted funds set aside by the trustees out of unrcstricted funds for specific
future pui"poses.
21. LEGAL STATUS
Stepping Stones NI is a Company Limited by Guarantee.
Each member has agreed to contribute £ l in the event of a compulsory winding up.
Stepping Stones Nl is registered with The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland,
Charity Niimber 100727. Date of registration 9th December 2014.
Stepping Stones NI is a recognised Charity within the definition of Section 360(3) Income
and Colyoration Taxes Act 1970 by the Commissioners of the HM Revenue & Customs.
Page 46