2025-06-30-annual-report

ATTICALL PLAYGROUP

Trustees’ Report for the year ended 30 June 2025

The trustees present their report and unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 June 2025.

Reference and administrative details

Registered charity name Atticall Playgroup

Charity registration number NIC102470

Registered office	Atticall Community Centre
	140 Tullyframe Road
	Kilkeel
	BT34 4RZ
Thetrustees	Jenni Trainor—Chairperson
	Sinead Quin — Treasurer
	Lisa Cunningham — Secretary
	Oonagh Fitzpatrick
	Laura Sloan
Professional advisors Bankers __ First Trust Bank
	42 —44 Hill Street
	Newry
	Co. Down
	BT344AU
Reporting Accountants	Mrs Jennifer Murphy
	150 Tullyframe Road
	Kilkeel
	BT344SA

Objectives and activities

The object of the group, as stated in the constitution, is to promote play-based learning environments for all children under statutory school age within Atticall and the surrounding area, without distinction of age, gender, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnic identity, political or religious opinion. This is achieved by working with statutory authorities, community and voluntary organisations, and residents to advance education and support the values and principles of Early Years.

The charity aims to:

Advance the education of the beneficiaries through the provision of safe and satisfying group play, encouraging parental involvement and supporting the preservation of health. Support and uphold the values and principles of Early Years.

Structure, governance and management

Atticall Playgroup is governed by a constitution formally adopted on 7 November 2013 and reviewed annually. |

The playgroup is managed by a committee who act as the trustees, supported by staff and parents. Day-to-day operations were led by Mary Sloan, the long-standing playgroup leader, until her retirement during the year.

Committee members are elected at the AGM. The committee is made up of parents and associate members, with nominations approved by the existing committee. Trustees may serve a maximum term of three years. Induction and training are provided in-house and through Early Years.

Trustees’ responsibilities in relation to the financial statements

The trustees are responsible for preparing a trustees’ report and statement of accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. They must keep proper accounting records, safeguard the charity’s assets, and take reasonable steps to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.

Public Benefit Statement

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The trustees have considered the Charity Commission for Northern lreland’s guidance on public benefit and are satisfied that the activities carried out during the year have furthered the charity’s purposes and provided clear benefit to the beneficiaries. Achievements and performance

Atticall Playgroup continues to provide high-quality early years care and education for children aged 3-5 years, offering three hours of structured play-based learning each weekday. The playgroup benefits from a dedicated team of fully qualified and experienced staff.

Learning through play remains central to the curriculum, supporting children’s personal, social and emotional development, physical skills, language, early maths, creativity, and understanding of the world. Outdoor learning continues to be a key feature, supported by our safe and stimulating outdoor play area.

Key developments this year

• e The year was financially challenging due to reduced pupil numbers and ongoing pressures on funding streams.

• e The playgroup successfully sustained operations thanks to strong community Support and a £4,000 grant from Halifax, for which the trustees are extremely grateful. This funding made a significant contribution to the sustainability of the playgroup during the year.

• e Additional income was raised through a range of community fundraising activities. The trustees extend sincere thanks to parents, local businesses, and the wider community for volunteering, purchasing raffle tickets, sponsoring events, and attending fundraisers.

Community events and activities

• e ASanta Sunday and craft fair brought together children, families, and the wider community.

• e The children enjoyed Irish classes, visits from Speech and Language, a local vet, and trips to Mourne Grange, NearyNogs Chocolate Factory, and Cheeky Monkeys.

• e Celebrations throughout the year included themed parties and a memorable Graduation ceremony.

Retirement of Mary Sloan

A major milestone this year was the retirement of Mary Sloan Playgroup Leader, who dedicated over 30 years of service to Atticall Playgroup. Her leadership, care, and commitment have shaped the experience of countless children and families. Her retirement was marked with a celebration in the local football club, attended by staff, families, and community members. The trustees express their deep gratitude for her exceptional contribution.

Income for the year

Funding additionalto EA included:

• e Getting Ready to Learn funding: £500 e Fees: £6,687 e Fundraising: £2,560 e Trip income: £695 e Halifax funding: £4,000 e Blackburn Trust: £618 e Pathway funding: £7,122 e Groundworks Tesco: £1,000

Reserves Policy

It is the policy of Atticall Playgroup to hold bank reserves of £21,000 to sustain the playgroup through unforeseen circumstances. As of 30 June 2025, the charity held reserves in line with this policy. The trustees continue to monitor reserves carefully considering the challenging funding environment.

Risk Review

The trustees regularly review the major risks facing the charity, particularly those relating to financial sustainability, staffing changes, and the wider funding climate. Appropriate systems and procedures are in place to mitigate these risks. The trustees consider that an audit is not required under the Charities Act (NI) 2008 and that an independent examination is appropriate.

Approval

The trustees’ annual report was approved on 18/04/2026 by the Board of Trustees:

Jenni Trainor Chairperson

Sinead Quinn Treasurer

Lisa Cunningham Secretary