Docusign Envelope ID: 1E4BADFC-CCD6-4A39-A96E-AAGFE10F7450
DOWN RIGHT BRILLIANT (NEWRY AND MOURNE DOWN'S SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP)
TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 5 APRIL 2025
The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 5 April 2025.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's governing document, the Charities (Northern Ireland) Act 2008 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).
Objectives and activities
The purpose of the Down Right Brilliant (“‘DRB’) is:
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¢ To establish and run a non-profit organisation in the Newry & Mourne area to encourage people with Down Syndrome to achieve their full potential
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¢ To promote the integration of people with Down Syndrome within the local community
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¢ To provide support and assistance to all parents of children with Down Syndrome
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¢ To provide appropriate support and information to new parents of babies with Down Syndrome
In setting our objectives and planning our activities for the year the trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s guidance on public benefit, to ensure that the activities have helped to achieve the charity's purpose and provide a benefit to the beneficiaries.
Income for the year of £51,083 (2024: £61,163) was significantly higher than the previous year. DRB was able to increase fundraising activities, and apply for project specific grant funding.
At the year-end DRB had cash of £45,257 (2024: £51,966) and is well-placed to continue with its charitable activities.
DRB continues to welcome new families, with membership currently standing at 62. We are proud to see our community grow and thrive.
Throughout the year, DRB delivered a comprehensive programme of weekly classes for members, including, Symbol Speech Club; Occupational Therapy; Yoga and Movement; and Numicon-based Numeracy Support.
In addition, our weekly Youth Club remained a popular fixture for both Junior and Senior members and their siblings. Activities included arts and crafts, physical exercise, dance sessions, and film nights. Seasonal events were also celebrated, such as a Spooky Disco for Halloween and a Festive Christmas Party, which were well attended and greatly enjoyed. Our Annual Summer Scheme provided a week-long programme for Junior and Senior members, designed to promote social interaction, health, wellbeing, and fun. Highlights included trips to an open farm, an outdoor activity centre, and a sports day. DRB also organised a successful family trip to Tayto Park, which was a memorable experience for all involved. To support our older members, we introduced new social outings for our 18+ group, aimed at fostering inclusion, independence, and peer connection.
DRB hosted its Annual Christmas Party, bringing together families for a joyful celebration. We also marked World Down Syndrome Day with a special family event, attended by the NUDDC Mayor. Senior members addressed the group with heartfelt messages, making the occasion particularly meaningful.
Regular parent meetings were held, featuring guest speakers on topics relevant to Down Syndrome. We also hosted two dedicated parent events, including Go -Karting for dads and a Christmas wreath-making workshop for mums. These initiatives have helped strengthen our parent community and build lasting relationships.
At the year-end DRB had cash of £45,257 (2024: £51,966) and is well-placed to continue with its charitable activities.
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Docusign Envelope ID: 1E4BADFC-CCD6-4A39-A96E-AAGFE10F7450
DOWN RIGHT BRILLIANT (NEWRY AND MOURNE DOWN'S SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 5 APRIL 2025
Financial review
It is the policy of the charity that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level equivalent to at least six month’s expenditure. The trustees considers that reserves at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the charity’s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year.
The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.
Structure, governance and management
In setting our objectives and planning our activities for the year the trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland's guidance on public benefit, to ensure that the activities have helped to achieve the charity's purpose and provide a benefit to the beneficiaries.
The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were: Mrs Caroline Digney
Mrs Yvonne Curran
Mrs Joan McGuinness
Mrs Ciara Reilly
Mrs Laura Devine (Appointed 21 November 2024)
Mr Chris Devine (Appointed 21 November 2024)
Mrs Marissa McShane (Resigned 17 October 2024)
The trustees’ report was approved by the Board of Trustees.
eal Qa Mrs Caroline Digney Co Chair
Dated: 16 October 2025
Y 2— Mrs Yvonne Curran Co Chair Dated:16 October 2025
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