Charity registraticn number 100908 Company registration number N1607703 (Northern Ireland) AA VETERANS SUPPORT ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
AA VETERANS SUPPORT LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Mi A Allen Mr M 8ingham Mi T Keenaii AIAn Mearns Charity nurnber 100908 Company number N1607703 Registered office Un.r C l Edenderry Industrial Estate 326 Cfvmlin Road Bellasl Co Anlfim Northern Ireland 8T14 7EE Independent examiner AAB Group Accountants Limited 1 3 Arrhur Street Belfast Co Antriffl Northern Ireland 8T1 4GA 8ank•rs Ulstet 8ank 11-16 Donegal Square East Belfast Co Anlrim BTI SIIB Solicitors O'Reilly Stewart Solicitors Lourtside House 75-77 May Street Belfast BTI 31L
AA VETERANS SUPPORT CONTENTS Page Trustees, report Indepeiident examiner s repoi I Statement of financial activitie5 12- 13 Balance sheet 14 Notes to the financial staternenls 15 27
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR fHE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 The trustees present their report and accounis tor i•e year ended 30 June 10: The accounts have been prepared In accordance with the accounting policies sel out In note 1 to the account5 and coinply with the charity's 9overning Ilocuiiient, the Compdnie5 Act 2006 and 'Accounting arKI Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommeiided Practice applicable lo charities prepai'ng their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reportlll9 SrandHrd applicable in thp LIK and Republic. of Ireland IFRS 1021" las amended for accounting periocs commeii( Ing from l January 2019, OPENING STATEMENT FROM OUR CHAIRMAN - THOMAS KEENAN It 15 my privilege to Present the Annua5 Report ol AA Veierans Support "rustees loi the year ending 30 June 20?4, reflecting on another year of dedication growth, ar)d unwavering 5UPPOrt for our veteran community. Since our foundation in 4101 I, OLJr journey has been defined by resilience and commitment. Over the years. we have navigated many challenges from the moact ol the COVID-19 pandemic to the rising cost of Iwing and, sadly, we have also experienced the loss 01 so'ne f)f our valued and dedicated volunteers individuals who gave their time, energy, and compas510n to help others. Thèir contributions will never be forgottèn, and we remain committed to hoiiouring their legacy i ontii iuing the work they iLi passionately SLlPPOrted. This year, v4e have continued to offer a wide rarig¥ of services from respite breaks and outdoor activities to breakfast club5, counselling, and more. These Initiatives not only provide practical a5515tance but also help strengthen the 5en5e ol camaraderie that Is so viral lo the well-being ot Ihose %who serve or have Served and their fainilie5, Noiie uf th15 WDulu be pcissibie 'Nifliuut the ded Lation of LIUI I/Liluiileeis, the 9enerusty of the public. and the Support of our +under5 Includinq the Armed Forces iovenant Fund Trust the National Lottery Awards foi. All, the Community Fund anLI Ihe Veterans Foundatioii Our counselling seiCe remains one of the cornerstones of our 5UPPOrt offering. providing hundred5 of hours of counselling every year to veterans In qeed We know that transitioning from military to cimlian life, coping with service-related Iraunia, or rnanagrng personal ihallenges can be difficblt which is why we ensure that these services are easily acce55ible ai)d availdble without delay W* pride ourselves on removing unnece55ary barriers 50 that those Nyho nee¢ help can receive it promptly and confidentially. This commitment to physical and mental well-being Is at the heart of everything do Our monthly veteran5' breakfast club5 remain a vital part of our support network. offering a safe and welcoming space where veterans cali come logether, sliare experiences, and access essential information about the sUPPOrt availoble to them. These gatherings foster a strong 5en5e of camaraderie. helping to combat 1501ation and e115uring that no velerai) feels alone We are deeply grateful to Ledley Hall Boys and Girls CILib and Jumna Str'eet Linfield Supporter5 Club, whose unwavering support makes these evenls possible Their generosity in opening :heir door5 and assistiffj with the delivery of our breakfast mornings goes above and beyond, creating a warrn and supportive environment for all who attend. Their commirment truly exemplifies the community spirit and dedication to integrating our armed forces into the wider comniunity. strengthening the boiids between veterans and the society they have Served. Meanwhile. oui T.i-Seivioe Veterans Football team has not only provided a space for fitness and teamwork but has also brought veteians iogether through the shared love of the game. At our outdoor activity centre, we have been able to deliver life-enhancing programmes thank5 to the generosity of Laurencetown Orange Hall. which has alloiNed u5 to use the slte free of charge. These activities have given veterans and their families the opportunity to spend quality time together benefiting from the peace and healing that nature provides. The positive impact of this initiative has been truly remarkable.
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 The increasing demand for our re5Plte breaks higblighis just how crucial these opportunities are. Veterans and their families rely on these breaks as a ihaiice to slep away from daily pre55ures, reconne(t with loved ones, and focus on their well-being The spee(J ai iihicli booking5 fill up Is a :estament to Just how valued these opportunities are. Respite breaks are niore than just a getaway-they are a vital tool in promoting mental health and emotional resilience Recogillsina this groviing demand, le are actively seeking ways to expand our capacity to ensure that more veterans ran access th15 essential suppnrt Beyond these core initiatives, we have remèined coiiimilted to providing weltare assistance. counselling, and other tailored support, while also enga9 ng Iri oulreach efforts across Northern Ireland Through veterans, information session5 and cornmunity event5, we have continued to raise awareness of the Services available, ensuring that no veter'an fee15 alone or dnsknpported As I reflect on the past year, I want to exiend rTiy sincere gratitude to our stalf, volunieers, trustees, and supporters. Their dedication is the driving lorie behind everything we do Their hard work and passion have allowed us to make a real difference In the lives of so many. l a150 want to express my deep èppreciation to the public. In difficult Iinies, your generosiiy has not wavered. Your support enables us to contll)ue PlLJbiding esseiilial Sei(e5 aiid Inaking a meaningful impact in the lives of veterans and their families A5 we look ahead, our commitment remains stroiig. Together. we will continue to build on our successe5, address the challenges that lie ahead, and ensure that Ih05e who serTre or have Served and their famlies receive the support, respect. and care they deserve Together. let us continue to make a positive impact. Thomas K••nan (AAVS Chainnan)
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 Objectives and activitie5 The Charity'5 objects I'obiecls i are specificall¥ reslricted to the following To promote the welfare and well-being ol all Serving and eX-Seice and women from or living in Northern Ireland by all or any of the followiiig means= l. Provide. secure or promote the pro'115ion of counselling ano other forms of therapeutic inleivelltion, training and other assisiafice lo find suitable employment, rehabilitation and resettlement services, advocacy advice and guidance and general sUPPOrt Services. 2, Piovide respite and support seri'i(es In the families and carers of suc h persons 3. Seek to obtain medical trea'.men; within Northern Ireland for all those who are Injured. PU8LIC 8ENEFIT The public benefits that rlow fi'oii? the puipuse ul proiiiuting the welfare and well-being of all service and ex-service men and women living In Noryheri) Ireland are 111 Improved coping s<i115 to deal with the adiustirent to civilian life,. reduced levels of stress and anxiety, improved self-care and self.help strategies alic eiihanced self-esteem and confidence leading to better mei)lal. physical and emotional well-being drid eiihdnced employmeiit yiospeits resulting In reduced levels of financial hardship. 121 Reduced levels of stre55 and anxiety un Ilie part of fainily members and Increased knowledge and understanding of the range ol support services available and how to acces5 them. 131 Diminished sense of isolation and heightened contact and engagement with family, friends and community. The beneficiaries are service and ex service men and women living In Northern Ireland and their families and cafers. These benefits can be evdenced by intern31 progre55 records kept by AA Veterans Support, feedback from beneficiaries. evalualiotis of the viork and impact of AA Veterans Support and ongoing research into the prableins arisin9 Iit)m adiustnient to civilian life No hai Im or privat? benefit arises from these purposes. Accommodation/housi ng Advice/advocacy/information Counsellinglsupport Disability Education/training General charitable purp05e5 Humaii rights/oquality Medical/health/sickness Relief of poverty Research/evaluation Volunteer development Welfare/benevolence
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 Achievernent5 and performance Expanding Our Impart Through Meaningful Projects. Over the past year, AA Veterans Support ha4 iontinued ro grow and eviiive delivering an expanding range of projects and services aimed ai Improviiig ihe well-beiiig ol veterans and their families 3cr055 Northern Ireland Our commitment to support. community integration. and skill development remains unviavering, and we are proud to share some of the achievements from this reporting period Building on the Success of the Veterans Film Project Following the success of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Tru5t-funded Veteran5 Film Project, we expanded our support for veteran5 Interested In mpdia prodLlCtion by launching a dedicated video editing course. fhis initiative built on the skills dei'eloped durinq our original Iilm project, providing veterans with the opportunity to refine their expertise Ir editing, storytelling. and production techniques. With the necessary filming equipment now in place, we are confident this progranime will further enable veterans to continue producing high-quality content while developing transferable skills for boih personal and professional growth. Tower to Tower Proj•ct - Léarning Irom ihe Past The Tower to Tower Project was a remarkable Inilialive tliat brought veterans and local children logether in cr055-community educational programme exploring the sacrifices made dknring both World Wars. The project culminated In a visit to the Somme bJrtlefields, where participants could experience first hand the historical significance ol the region aiid gaiii d greater dppreciatiori ful tlie courage aliLI resi1nCe ol those who served. This initiative was a powertul example of education, renieirbrance. and community engagement, helping bridge the gap betsveen pasl and present generations Honouring SeThice Through Sport Ulster Branch of the Irish Guards Association Golf Day We were deeply honoured to be chosen as the charity beneficiary for the annual Ulster Branch of the Irish Guards Association Golf Day. Not only did this event raise a significant amount of funds to support our work, but it also helped raise awareness of our 5ervice5 among a wider audience. many ol whom veteran5. Frank Hewltt Memorial Trophy In memory of our esteemed colleague and tfustee Frank Hewitt, we were proud to host a memorial football tournament featuring several military and veterans, team& This event wa5 a fitting tribute to Frank's commitment to the veteran cornmunity and underscored the importance of sport in fostering wéll-bèing. teamwork, and camaraderie among those who have served.
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 Veteran5 Canra Club - Creativity Through Photography The Veterans Camera Club has continued to gro proi'iding both experienced and novice photographers with the opportunity to explore their Iredlivity Iliiougli the medium of photography. This initiative has proven to be a therapeutic and en9aging activity, allowing veterans 10 cor,nect, expre55 themselves artistically. and develop new skills in a sUPPOrtive environment. Veterans Respite Garden - Growing a Sense of Purpose Supported by Argyle Business Centre and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, our Velerans Respite Garden Project has been an impaciful Initiati'/e the past year. Veleièris Iiivolved in this initiative have spoken of a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, with one veteraii sharing "Reaching our ro AA VS about the garden proJeL-t rurnea out ro be one Dr the besr decisions I have made in a long time. Since leawng rhe army vears 3(70 I P7ave stiuggled to find a sei?se oi purpose ond m155ed tht camaradene. However, volunteering wi.th thi> project changed rhat. It reignire¢S iTpk' sense olpurpose ano belonging. Witnessing lirsttland how mj. emorts Jre fransforming into something meaninglul that will assisi orhers like n?ysell has been ii7credib/i rewaidiiig With the project comir)g together we are eycited tn expand its reach, offering pveii more veterans and their fainilies the chance to connect. learn new 5ki11s. and enjoy the outdoars. Veterans Christmas Lunch A Celebration of Camaraderie A second successful Vetorans Christmas Lunch 4Na5 held at the Royal Brltish L•gion on Montgomery Road. generously sponsored by the Belfast City Council Veterans Champion and the Northern Ireland Veteran5 Support Office. The event was d joyous occasion, bringing veleiaiis together for a Christmas lunch, entertainment, and the opportunity to reconnect. We were honoured to welcome the Northern Ireland Veterans Commlsslaner and serving members of the Armed Forces, further stren9thening Collaboration and support networks within the veteran community. Engaging with BLESMA and Blind Velerans UK We were privileged to host veterans frorn BLESMA and Blind Veterans UK along with their familie5 for a day at our Veterans Outdoor Actlvity Centre Artendees took part In a variety of activities. including f15hing, static airsoft. bushcraft. ar<hery, and more. rhe event prov1deQ an Invaluable opportunity for friendships. banter. and camaraderie. reirsforcing the power of community in veteran well-being. Core Services and Continued Grovrth Counselling seice5 - Delivering Essential Mental Health Support Our counselling services have remained a critical lifeline, offering hundreds of hour5 01 professional support to veterans facing mental health challenges Thanks to our dedicat•d team of counsellors. we were able to deliver hundreds of hours of counselling over the past year, ensuring that veteran5 received the prompt and effertivé support they needed
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 We take immense pride In Dur ability to provide Swift acce55 to rnentsl health 5er¥ice5, Wlth the majority of appointments scheduled within 48 hours Qt Ihe init al request. This commilmeiit to timely intervention ensures that veteran5 are not left wailing for critical support. We are Incredibly grateful to National Lottery Awards for All and ComrTiLiniti/ Fiiiiil Icii liiiidin9 that has helpe(1 suslalll th15 vital sendice Tackling Isolation Through the Campin9 Projert Now in its second year, our Tackling Isolation Through Camping Proj•ct SLJpporred ai the outset by the Armed Foices Covenant Fund. ha5 piovided transformative outdoor experiences for veterans and their families. With access to state-of-the-art camping equipment and our Veterans Outdooi Activity Centre near Banbridge, participants have engagea In actiltieS including bushcraft. archery. airsoft, fishing. and kayaking. This initiative has nat only provided enjoyable recreational opportunities but has also played a crucial role in reducing isolation, fostering community connectlons, and promoting m•ntal well-belng. Veterans Breakfast Clubs - Strengthenlng Bonds Our monthly veterans. breakfast clubs have iontinued to be a cornerstone of our outreach efforts. offering a welcoffling space for veteran% to connect, share experiences, and acce55 5UPPQrt. We are particularly grateful to Ledley Hall Boys and Gir15 Club and Jumna Street Linfield Supporter5 Club, whose generoslty and community spirlt have beeii instrumental in supportiiig these gatherings. Their commitment to integration and inclusion ha5 helped ensure thèt veteran5 leel welcomed and valued withln the wider community Veterans Football Team Our Veterans Football Team has gone from strength to strength, participating in trainlng sessions, matche5, and tournaments both locally and In England. In collaboration with the Irish Football A550ciation's 'Ahead of the Game, initiative, we have also helped deliver coaching qualifications. allowing veteran5 to gain new skills and contribule to local football clubs. Welfare Assistance and Respite Breaks - A Lifelsne for Veterans Our welfare and outreach team has been Inslruniental in supportin9 veterans lacing financial hardship. housing challenges. and other critical issues In addition, respite breaks continue to be In high demand, with every available date booked and a waiting list in place. These breaks offer a much-needed sanctuary, providing veterans and theii lamilies ¥vith an opportunity to rest, reconnect. and rKharge in peaceful and sUPPOrtive environment. Looking Ahead A5 we reflect on the past year. we remain deeply committed to our mission of 5UPPOrting veterans and their familie5. With new inltiative5 under developmerrt and a strong foundatlon of partnerships. funders. and community support, we look forward lo expanding our reach and makbng an even greater impact in the years to come.
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 Together. we can make a difference. Some of the services we provided during this period were Counselling Support groups Benefits advice & guidance i including forni fillinqi War pension & AFCS SLlPPOrt and relerrols Housing advice, guidance, and signposting Welfare Grants Respite breaks Breakfast clubs Outreach A range of bespoke projects The informatlon detalled wlthin the a¢hi•vemènts and performance section is a snapshot detaillng some of the activitie5. programrn•s and Inliiali¥•s are Involved or have dir•ctly d•liverod. FINANCIAL REVIEW The trustees liave developed a reseNes policy In order to protect against unforeseen circumstances. The policy states that AAVS will seek to build sufficient financial reserves to provide for twelve months in order that the charities ability to deliver services and develop the business in the manner planned can be achieved without any negative impact The reserves policy 15 kept under review and aniended accordingly to ens¢Jre current and future demand 15 met. The restricted funds as at 30th June 2024 Is £69,398 This Is an Increase 01 £21 154 from the previous year. The unrestricted fund5 a5 at 30th June 2024 Is £82.601. This is a decrease of £5,010 from the previous year. Income a5 at 30th June 2024 Is £132,932 which Is a decrease of £63,146 Irom the previous year Expenditure as at 30th June 2024 is £116,798 which Is J Ltecrease of £27,794 from the previou5 year.
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED}(INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 Structure. governance and management The charity 15 a company limited by guarantee Every member of the Company undertakes to contribute to the asset5 of the Compai)y, in the evenl of the sa17)e being wound up while Il Is a member. OT within one year after it ceases to be a member lor payment ol the debts and liabilities of the Company contracted before it ceases to be a member, and odt ot costs charges and expenses of winding up. and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributories among thernselves, such amount as rnay be required not exceeding £1. The Trustees nieet at least once a month and further as requireo. AA Veterans Support is a member of the followinq bodies and are commirted to best practice.. The Confederation ol Service Chai Ities IC08SEOI The Northern Ireland Veterans Support ForLJm Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Act on INICVAJ Fundraising Regulator NIVSO Mental Health Foium The trustees, who are also the directors for ihe pJrpose ot company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial Slalemenls were Mr A Allen Mr M 8ingham Mr T Keenan Mr Alan Mearns DIRECTORS (TRUSTEES) A D1Ctor must be aged eighteen year5 or older No one may be appointed a director if he or she wjuld be disqualified from acting under the prDvisions of article 34. The nLirnber of Directors shall not be less than three. A Director may not appoint an aliernate Director or anyone to act on his or her behalf at meeting5 Of the Director5. APPOINTMENT OF DIREcfoRS ITRUSTEESI Not less than three-quarters ol the Board vl Directors shall be made uy of serving or ex-service rnen or women The current board of trustees for AAVS rerognisp the Importance of aVIng a diverse board, bringing a wealth of skills. experience views knowledge and appi oaches. New trustees are invited onto the 8oard at the annual general meeting and new board member5 receive induction trairiing upon membership of the board.
AA VETERANS SUPPORT TRUSTEES. REPORT (CONTINUED){INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024 TRUSTEE RESPONSIBILITIES The trustee5 are responsible for preparing the AniiuJl Report and the financial statements In accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Genei alls, Accepted Accounting P.actice Company law requires the trustees ',0 Pfepai e tinancial statements for each 'iiiaiicial year, which give a true and fair view of the State of affairs ol the company Jt ihe end of the fina nc131 year and ol the surplus or deficit For thol period. In preparing the finaiicial 5tolerneiils. the directors are requirets to select suitable aCCDLJnting policies and then apply them conslstently,. make Judgments and estiiyiates that ale ieasL)nable and prudent,. < prepare the financial statement5 on the going rnncern basis unless il is Iiiappr'opriate to presume that the charity will continue in business The tru5tee5 are responsible lor keeping proper aLc?unting records which disL lose, with reasoiiable accuracy, al any time the financial position of the charity and lo enable them to ensure that the financial statements coinply with the Companies Act 2006 They are aisLI responsible lor safeguai ding the assets of the company, and hence for tsking reasonable steps for the orevention, and detection, of traud and other Irregularities. n relation to the financial statements which comprise the statement of financial activities, rhe balance sheet and the related notes., The tfUStees approve these financial slalempnt5 and cnnfirm that thpy are rpspon5ibl& fnr the.m. including selecting ihe appropriate occounling policies. applying them con515tently and making, on a reasonable and prudent basis. the iudgments underlying them, They have been prepared on the goiiig concern basis on tl)e ground5 that rne charily will continue Iii operation. The trustees canfifm that they have made available to Group Accountants Limited, all the charity's accounting records and proviLled all the Iiifoimation neLessary lor the compilation of the financial statements. The trustees confirm that lo the besi 04 ihpir knowledge and beliet the acc.ounling records refled all transactions of the charity for the vear ended 30 June 2024. The rrustees, report was approved by rhe Board o, Trustees. Mr T Keenan Trustee Dated.