COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: N1071940 CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 104640 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements 31 March 2024 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Page Trustees, annual report (incorporating the director's report) Independent auditor's report to the members 58 Statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account) 62 Statement of financial position 63 Statement of cash flows 64 Notes to the financial statements 65 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 age Nl 3 Lowerc￿tent 8elfasl 8T71NR I: 028 9024 5729 e= info@ageni.O www.ageni.org Lrn l(rter life A Foreword from our Chair and Chief Executive It is with pleasure that we are presenting the Trustees, Annual Report for 2023124. This report highlights how Age Nl has continued to help thousands of older people. their families and Ca￿r5 through its areas of seNice delivery and policy and engagementactivities. Within this finanoal year. as we emerge from the pandernic. we were able to return to face-to-face delivery for the majority of our services. We also ts110￿￿ our delTvery lo remain accessible foT older people. who didn't feel confident in returning lo a physical setting. We continued to deliver the 'Check in and Chatservice,. following ils SUC￿$SfUl delivery during the pandemic. as it helped and continues lo help address loneliness. We know that tackling loneliness requires a personalised approach lo understsnd the ￿asonS for loneliness and provide support to re-eonnect. tskTng account of individual needs. wishes and aspirations. Feedback from an older person suNeyed through the Lived Experience Survey. which highlights the importance of early intervention said Loneliness is one of the most stressful issues which can then lead lo more physical and mental decline rfnol identified earty. We are delighted to report that we conduded another year in a solid financial position. as we continue to successfully deliver for our beneficiaries. We hope you enjoy reading our Trustees. Annu81 Report and wish to highlight a few key areas= We are delighted to have established Age Nl's Shared Lives Service. which is a new regulated Servi￿ for Age Nl. It speryfically supports dder people and offers a safe. welcoming. family environment where Shared Lives Carers share their lives. homes. hobbies and community life with an older person requiring support. Wè are proud to have delivered an array of services and programmes to older people. providing a variety of options for our benefiaaries IPage 61. We recognise the diversity of older people and have developed Pfojects targeb.ng different groups. We have successfully delivered on each of the Pillar5 Within our Strategy throughout the OTganisation. and have documented our achievements on Page 17. The Impacts and Case Studies provided againsteach of our Objects. provide evidence of how Age Nl is providing and delivering quality servitss. lo promote the wellbeing of older peo￿e. aligned to our vision. which 15 a society in which we can thrive as we age. We wish to thank all our colleagues in the voluntary. communty, public and private sectors as well as our funders. volunteers and donors for your ￿llaboration and support. We look forward lo continuing our working partnefship with you in the coming years. Yours sincerely Dr Raymond Mullan OBE Age Nl Chair Linda Robinson BEM Age Nl Chief Executive 4 INVESTORS IN PEOPLE Age ComwyrnurnLYrNKJ71940.AklFL.ThaThl(p?ftrerceruffjDerXTl4fQ).rtyrAwE¢wthTreDartyC¢ftfft¢Wf4rN4tlhvn1rfWd ￿lIc 0'6JC AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the financial statements of the charty for the year ended 31 March 2024. Reference and administrative details Registered charity name AGE NI Charity registration number 104640 Com pany registration number N1071940 Principal office and Registered office 3 Lower Crescent Belfast BT7 1NR Tel. (028) 9024 5729 Website: www.a eni.or The Trustees Dr Raymond Mullan OBE Chair Mrs Patricia Davey Vice-chair Mr Patrick Mullan Treasurer Mrs Geraldine Sarah Brady Trustee Mrs Mary Teresa Dunlop Trustee Dr David W.S. Law Trustee (Resigned 20 June 2023) Mrs Aislinn McBride Trustee Ms Hilary McDowell Trustee Mr Paul Moorhead Trustee Mr Patrick Mullan Trustee Mr Edward Smyth Trustee (Resigned 25 June 2024) Mr David Trelford Consultative Forum Trustee (Resigned 22 June 2023) Ms Ann Murray Consultative Forum Trustee (Appointed 23 June 2023) Mrs Marie Bernadette Heaney Co-opted Trustee (Resigned 26 June 2024) Ms Christine Magill Co-opted Trustee (Appointed 1 September 2023) Mrs Corey Parr Co-opted Trustee (Appointed 1 September 2023) Auditor Moore (N.I.) LLP Donegall House Donegall Square North Belfast BT15GB AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Investment Bankers Evelyn Partners The Linenhall 32-38 Linenhall Street Belfast BT2 8BG Solicitors Edwards & Co. Solicitors 28 Hill Street Belfast BT12LA Bankers Danske Bank Donegall Square West Belfast BT16JS AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 BACKGROUND TO AGE NI Purpose of Age Nl Age Nl is the voice of older people in Northern Ireland. Our charty's purposes, as set out in the objects contained in the charity's Articles of Association, are to promote the following purposes for the benefit of the public andlor older people.. Preventing or relieving the povety of older people., Advancing Education" Preventing or relieving sickness, disease or suffering in older people (whether emotional, mental or physical)., Promoting equalty and diversty. Promoting the human rights of older people; Assisting older people in need by reason of ill-health, disability, financial hardship, social exclusion, or other disadvantage-, and Such other charitable purposes for the benefit of older people as the Trustees may from time to time decide. The outcome of this being the promotion of the well-being of older people. Our vision is a society in which we can thrive as we age. Our mission is to help people to enjoy later lrfe by ensuring that their voice is heard and their rights are upheld. We are at the forefront of change, enabling older people to have a voice and to remain independent, supporting those who need help in our society and inspiring people to thrive as they age. Living in an ageing society: A longer later life is to be celebrated, bringing prospects of pursuing new activities. having time to dedicate to the things we enjoy, contributing to our families and communities. Many of us, however, don't like to talk about getting older but ageing comes to us all and impacts on our lives, and the lives of our family and friends. Getting older can be a very different experience for each of us. Many older people enjoy life to the full, while others struggle because of poverty. health inequality, isolation or discrimination. We are living in an ageing society, with the population in Northern Ireland ageing at a faster rate than the rest of the UK. The recent ￿nsuS revealed that there has been a 24 % increase in the population aged 65+ since 2011, with 56.80/9 of our population aged 65+ indicating they have a long temi health problem or disability. It is anticipated that, within a decade, there will be more people aged 65 years and over than children aged 14 years and younger. Evidence suggests that improvements in life expectancy has slowed down and there has been no change in the number of years spent in good health More than one in ten people over 65 years in the community live with frailty, which also affects over half of adults in hospital or care home settings. There has been an increase in the per￿ntage of the Nl population feeling lonely., with higher levels of loneliness for people aged 50-64 and 75+ Tic AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Emerging from the pandemic: As we emerge from the pandemic, we are mindfvl that for many older people, the pandemic was associated with loss- at an individual level, but also in having a sense of purpose, of being active in local communities- as civic leaders, and as the "glue" that holds communities together. We know that some older people continued to be fearful about leaving their home and anxious about joining with others in group activities. Others may also have become less active and more frail, due to deconditioning and delayed access to diagnosis, treatment or care. This has increased levels of loneliness and isolation eXperIen￿d by older people. We know that the impact of the pandemic remains with many older people and within this financial year, we have endeavoured to address these issues, through a variety of serVi￿s. wellbeing programmes and innovative projects. We recognise the diversity of older people. and seek to provide many options to suit individual needs. During the pandemic, the CEO developed a Business Continuity Plan, which was discussed within the Boardlcommittee structure and provided a summary of how Age Nl continued to deliver for our beneficiaries and stakeholders throughout the pandemic, aligned to the Corporate Risk Register. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl Services The following table includes an explanation of the services we delivered within the financial year, and provides context for some services which are included later in the report. Service Description Advice & Advocacy The Age Nl Advice & Advocacy service provides free and confidential information and advice, on a wide range of issues including welfare benefits, communty care, housing and health. Our specialist advisors can provide a free benefit check to ensure that older people are ac￿SsIng the financial support they are entitled to. Every year our Advice Service deals wrf(h thousands of calls from older people in need. Care Services Age Nl Care Services includes: Day Centre Care: Age Nl Day Centres provide an opportunty for activity and friendship for older people. Day Centres for older people (without dementia) include: > Grove Day Centre, Ballynahinch > Skainos Day Centre, Belfast and its outreach > Dungannon Day Centre > Anna House Day Centre, Dunmu > Portaferry Day Centre Aghalee Day Centre, Craigavon Age Nl Day Centres which specialise in supporting older people with dementia are: > Ballyclare Day Centre > Castlewellan Day Centre > Laurelhill Day Centre, Lisburn > Anna House Day Centre, Dunmurry Domiciliary Care: Age Nl provides vttal Domiciliary Care services to support individuals in the South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust who wish to stay in their own home. Services may involve routine household tasks, personal care of the client and other associated domestic seNices necessary to maintain an individual in an acceptable level of health, hygiene, dignity. safety and ease in their home. The flexibility of this service allows the changing needs of a person to be met within the care plan. This person- centred approach enables the individual to enjoy the comfort and reassurance that as their needs change, so will the level of care provided. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 y Life My Choice: My Life My Choice is an Age Nl care seNice providing tailored person-centred support to people who have been diagnosed with dementia, their families and carers in Belfast, in line with individual needs and preferen￿s. As part of the care service, the service-user can: Continue to do the things they enjoy, take part in social activities or learn something new. Meet new people and chat about things that are important to them. Be signposted to other sources of support and activities within their area. Be connected to Age Nl's Advice & Advocacy Seniice, get a free benefrt check and find out what financial support, or other support, they may be entitled to. We also provide a range of tailored support to carers and family members, to help them support the serVi￿- user to live as they choose. Referrals to this Servi￿ are through the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. Residential Home (Meadowbank): Age Nl's residential care service is recognised as a model of best practi for people with dementia. Meadowbank Residential Home in Omagh is a registered care home for 25 older people with dementia. The home was opened in 1998 and was built based on the principles of good design for people with dementia. The home is built with 2 houses of 8 residents and 1 house with 9 residents. Each house has its own social space fostering an intimate and friendly environment for its residents. 'Check in and Chav telephone service The Check in and Chat telephone support service involves trained volunteers, who are carefully matched with an older person and provides an opportunity for a friendship call on a weekly basis. Shared Lives Age Nl's Shared Lives Servi￿ specifically supports older people and offers a safe, welcoming. family environment where Shared Lives Carers share their lives, homes, hobbies and community life with an older person requiring support. Age Nl's regional Shared Lives service is commissioned by the Department of Health and registered with RQIA. The Shared Lives Model is based around Shared Lives Carers who we carefully recrutt, assess, vet and train to provide care for older people at the early stage of need. This helps AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 to maintain their independence and connects them with their local community, reducing loneliness and isolation and supporting family carers to continue to provide care. Initially the service is providing day support but will develop to offer short breaks and long-term care. In addition to Age Nl delivering the above key services, within this financial year we have also delivered the following Wellbeing ServiceslProgrammes, to improve the lives of older people in Northern Ireland: ellbein ServicelPro tsf Connect ramm The First Connect servi￿ (operational in Northern and Belfast Health & Social Care Trust areas) provides emotional and practical support at difficult times for older people by supporting them to be independent, feel safer and more secure in their home, and improve their quality of life. This service helps to reduce social isolation, increase confidence, and improves access to local servI￿s. Building trust and confidence with older people, through a number of interactions is key to the success of First Connect, allowing more complex or hidden issues to be identified. This approach enables older people to take more control of their own lives and enjoy better emotional and physical well-being. Clients can avail of bespoke one-to one support (either face to face, by telephone or via an online platform) andlor group involvement. Volunteers have been recruited to the First Connect service, further enhancing the emotional and practical support provided to older people at a drfficuFt time in their lives. irjg WEII m.oyle Living Well Moyle is a partnership between Age Nl, GP practices throughout the Dalriada area (Northern Health & Social Care Trust), the local council, health and social care organisations and the local community. It is about connecting people in a way that will promote wellbeing. The partnership supports people with chronic health conditions to lead happier and healthier lives, by reconnecting people wtth activities in their community to help them pursue things that are important to them. A strong cohort of volunteers further enhance provision of support. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Staying Sharp is a bespoke service tailored to support people living with mild cognitive impaimient and early stages of dementia who reside in the Ballymena area. This seNice is led by a part-time co-ordinator who has a cohort of five volunteers who inform and support service users on nutrition, exercise and community engagement to improve healthy life choices. y Life My Wellbeing My Lrfe My Wellbeing aimed to improve the wellbeing of older people and older carers through tsrgeted and person-centred approaches. This included one to one support, access to information and a tailored Carers, Guide, online wellbeing programme and a public awareness campaign. The project was funded until December 2023 and provided support in the Belfast and Northern HeaFth and Social Care Trust areas. The Carer Support programme aimed to support the mental health of carers of older people by providing personalised support, including information and advice. access to wellbeing programme and an awareness raising campaign. The project was funded until March 2024 and provided support in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust area. Move More Live More is an innovative falls prevention programme which delivers three tiers of intervention to older people.. education, information and awareness to those who may not have experienced a fall" six week, expert led information and activity programme to those who may have experienced a fall" and a smart, wearable device monitoring activity and general health, to those deemed to be at a high risk of falling again. arer SupportJ,trogramme ovèmurei ogran)Ilq' Age Nl delivers this project as part of a consortium, which is led by Taking Care (part of AXA Health) and includes the Public Health Agency, the Southem Heatth and Social Care Trust, Big Motive and Ulster Universi AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 ood Vibrations programme 'Good Vibrations, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of men aged 50+ across Northern Ireland. The Good Vibrations programme is delivered through three tiers of support: information and guidance to improve emotional wellbeing and mental health through self-help., access to career and wellbeing support programmes, advice, social prescribing services. and one to one intenientions and buddy support. 'Good Vibrations, delivers support in partnership with a wide range of organisations, including Inspire Wellbeing and Business in the Community, reflecting the diversi of men and communities. 10 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Connect North Link Worker Wellbeing Service The following Project shows the successful transition from the Local Community Navigator wellbeing seniice to the Connect North Link Worker wellbeing service, which operates a new model of delivery in the Northern Health & Social Care Trust area: he Localty Communty Navigator's role was to represent and support communtylvoluntary sector organisations in the respective localtty to work effectively wit he Northern Health & Social CareTrust. and other statutory bodies in a partnership approach. The objective was to work alongside the existing organisations to identtfy and respond to local needs, build capacity and sustainability through community development approaches. They also kept the Northern Health and Social Care Trust older people'5 irectories updated. he Locality Community Navigator Servi￿ ended wtthin this financial year and a tende process initiated for the Connect North Link Worker programme for four locations within he Northem Health & Social Care Trust area. Age Nl was delighted to have been inttiall warded three of the four areas, with the fourth area awarded later in the year. ge Nl was pleased to present to the International Conference on Integrated Care in March 2024 for the Connect North Link Worker service and the Move More Live More roject (outlined above). escription: ge Nl's Connect North Link Worker ser4ice works in collaboration with the Northern ealth & Social Trust Connect North team. he aim of this service is to provide a holistic, social prescribing service for those who ar xperiencing social, emotional or practical issues which are affecting their health and ellbeing and require assistan￿ from a link worker to determine appropriate supportive ervices. ervice delivery: o enable the most appropriate intervention for clients who require support and nformation about services to improve their overall health and wellbeing, the service has -step process: tep 1. The clienu carer is directed to the Northern Health & Social Care Trust online irectory of services (Population Plus) to find support and information which could benefit hem. tep 2. Using Population Plus, we signpost clientslcarers to helpful source5 of informatio ased on assessment of their social needs. tep 3. Where the clienucarer has been unable to access Population Plus andlor ignposting has not been effective, then one-to-one support is provided by the Connect orth Link Worker. 11 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 AGE NI STRATEGY Age NI Plan at a Glance 2022-25 age NI Age Nl enobles older people to moke the very best of their Iwes ond works io create o society thot tnJly volues. Supports and welcornes them. A Society in which we can thrive as we oge. To help people to enjoy loter life. You motter . We core Together we make o difference Vision Mission Values Pillar | Objective By 2025. we will hove supported the wellbeing ond independence of mo older people through o diverse ronge of high-quality seroces ond activities. | Priorities al People Provide ond develop quality sèrvic* ond support to improve the independence and wellbeing of older people. Continue high quality composgonote ond sofe service delivery. Refine oncj test new models of service delivery which meet the chonging demographic ond Oddre￿ isolotion ond loneliness. Work with portners to promote the benefits of heolthy ogeing ond oddress frailty. Identify tools to 5UPPOrt people to help themselv￿ to promote independent living. aces By 2025. we wli I hove driven forword the oge friendty ogendo throu9h troining, colloboration ond shoring of good proctice. Increose visibility ond reoch of Age Nl in locol communities. Continue 10 support the development of Age Sector Networks. Support the development of oge friendly ogendo in workploces ond communities. Prepare for our ageing demographic by creating on oge friendly society. By 2025, we will hove further promoted the v(Ices ond the rights of older people through icy ond eng09emenL Ensure older people are reflected in Government priorities le.g. Progromme for Government). Secure o Loneline55 Sirotegyfor Northem Irelond. Influence Heolth & Sociol Care Reform. Progress odoption of GFS (Goods, Fociltties & Serwcesl legislation. Collect eiridence on whot motters most to older people e.g.. through Lived Experience opprooch Iloneiiness, froilty, etc}. Protett ond promote the rights of older people. By 2025, we will hove further irwested in the tolent of our teom. le0de￿h1p. technology ond engogemenL Recruit ond retoin tolented orKJ committed Trustee% stoff ond volunteers. Ensure effective leodership. Embed culture and volues ocross oll WOTk orecE. . Gm ond och￿￿ o sustainobie. d$Ve￿e r￿enue bcso Enhance technology copobilities. st￿ngthen the role ond influence ofthe Consultotwe Forum. Increase colloborotive wtrking with kLry Stokehoiders. A Professionol, suStair￿b1e. well govemed orgonisation driven ty the voice of older people. 12 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 OUR OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Our aims and objectives are informed by feedback from our stakeholders including the Consultative Forum, Age Sector Networks and our Age Nl team. We have developed four goals which determine what we do. These goals are driven by the priorities which older people in later lrfe tell us matter to them and ensures we focus our resources on delivering these goals= People. Provide and develop quality services and support to improve the independence and wellbeing of older people. Places. Prepare for our ageing demographic by creating an age friendly society. Policy. Protect and promote the rights of older people. Progressive Organisation. Age Nl is a professional, sustainable, well-governed organisation driven by the voice of older people. How We Assess and Measure our Success Age Nl has a comprehensive set of criteria and measures to assess successes of our work. Aligned to our strategy, we have provided our KPIS for 2022-25 below. Our perfomiance against the KPIS in this financial year are included with last yearfs performance and our Outcomes, which show how we're delivering the priorities against each pillar. Pillar KPI 2022-25 Performance 2023-2024 161,660 engagements were delivered (in Services and information guides). Outcomes People Increase number of engagements from 1 Ook to 120k. People enjoy better health for longer. By 2025, we will have supported the wellbeing and independence of more older people through a diverse range of high-qualty services and actNities. Older people can exercise choice and control over their lives. Number of people directly supported by Age Nl." 6000 people per annum. 5921 people directly supported. People access the best quality care in later life. Age Nl's Shared Lives service was established. Six Shared Lives Carers approved. One Shared Lives arrangement in place. Increase in number of older people reached. Improvement in qualty of lrfe of service users and carers Building collaborations with.. Ulster University, Voluntary organisations. Public Health Agency (PHA) and councils. Continued partnership working across sectors. 13 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Maintain wellbeing scores at 800/0 and above. Wellbeing scores for services were 930A and above. Increase in digital stakeholder engagement Targeted public awareness campaign promoting ageing well had a reach of 1,002,553 people. Reach increased in digital stakeholder engagement by 10°/0 and in line to reach ta et b 2025. Pillar KPI 2022-25 2023-24 Outcomes Places 10 % Increased reach by age, gender and minority groups. Ser4i¢e reach.. Age Nl delivers ServI￿S in all HSC Trust and Council areas. Gender.. 64.7 % (female},' Age Sector Ne￿Ork partners are viewed as key leaders in their community influencing local decision making. By 2025. we will have driven forward the age friendly agenda through training, collaboration and sharing of good practice. Otherlunknown Age range: 55+. 52.50/0 are aged 65+. To provide organisation support to ASN partners to further the ambitions of Age Movember project targets men aged 50+ and is a partnership of organisations to reach and engage men from different communities, backgrounds and circumstances. 4 meetings of the Age Friendly Ne￿Ork organised. 4 regional meetings with Age Sector Ne￿orkS held. 20% Increased in age awareness training delivered by Age at Work. 10 Age Awareness workshops were delivered to 7 workplaces and businesses, which were attended by 129 people acros5 a range of financial, utility, statutory and voluntary sector organisations. Cyber Safety training re ared for Belfast C" 14 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 council, to be delivered in 202412025 financial year. Pillar KPI 2022-25 2023-2024 Outcomes Policy Influence Govemment and policy thinking. 983 Lived Experience surveys were retumed - 687 online and 296 by paper copy. Ageism is reduced. By 2025, we will have further promoted the voices and the rights of older people through policy and engagement. Older people's rights are upheld. 700 engagementlpolicy influencing voices heard by decision makers. The contribution of people in later life is valued. 4 All Party Group meetings (including AGM) were held. 4 Consultative Forum meetings were held, with themed agendas. Additional engagement meetings were held with public bodies. asre uired. Pillar KPI 2022-25 2023-2024 Outcomes Progressive organisation IIP Platinum accreditation. IIP Gold Award was retained in January 2024. The voice of older people influences what Age Nl does. 700kn positive staff engagement. By 2025, we will have further invested in the talent of our team. leadership. technology and engagement Mental heatth and wellbeing Adion Plan was implemented in June 2023 Age Nl is a great place to work and volunteer. Age Nl demonstrates how rt has changed people's lives. 1000A maintenance of regulated services to RQIA standards. Care Services all met RQIA standards. Age Nl operates as an integrated charity. Financial Strategic Plan in place. Mixed economy income generation. Financial Strategy in place, approved by Board of Trustees in April 2023. Age Nl is properly resourced to deliver its plans and actFvities. Approved Audited Accounts and Management letter. Age Nl is effectwely led and govemed. Approved audited accounts. Management letter had no recommendations. Maintained Charity Commissionlcompanies House compliance. Continue to maintain com liance WFth The 15 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Charity Commission for Nl and Companies House. Renewed and maintained Cyber Essential Plus Certification. 99 % uptime technology capabilities. Achieved 99Q uptime technology ca abilities. 16 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE 202312024 In 202312024 with support from our partners and stakeholders, we had 161,660 interactions with older people (Age Nl Services and targeted information). We have made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of older people through the dedication of our staff and Trustees, the generosity of our volunteers and supporters, and the significant contribution of our partners. The key achievements against Age Nl's four strategic objectives for 202312024 include: People - Provide and develop quality services and support to improve the independence and wellbeing of older people Age Nl Advice & Advocacy Service received over 10,000 (10,014) calls to the Advice Line, with £1,013,362 identified in unclaimed benefit. In Care Services, Age Nl supported 485 older people and delivered 395,969 hours of care within the following Servi￿S.. Day Care - Support and interaction wtthin this service provided social inclusion. Domiciliary Care - Personal care and support provided to individuals in their own home. My Lrfe My Choice - Home support and social outings for individuals with dementia.. Meadowbank Residential Care - 24-hour care and support to residents with dementia. AII RQIA standards were met across all of A e Nl Care services. Age Nl's Wellbeing Services supported 2654 older people in this financial year, through a range of innovative serVi￿S including those developed this year: Move More Live More - falls prevention programme. Good Vibrations (Movember) - regional programme to improve the health and wellbeing of men aged 50+ My Lrfe My Wellbeing- supporting the wellbeing of older people and older carers through person-centred approaches. Carer Support programme - supports the mental health of carers of older people. Connect North- provides a holistic, social prescribing service for older people who are experiencing social, emotional or practical issues affecting their health and wellbein 17 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl's Shared Lives service was launched in September 2023. The service supports older people and offers a safe, welcoming, family environment where Shared Lives Carers share their lives, hobbies and community lrfe with an older person requiring support. Key achievements within this financial year were.. Six Shared Lives Carers were recruited, assessed, approved and trained. 12 Approval Panel Members from across the Health & Social Care Trusts and a Panel Chair were recruited, inducted and trained on the roles and responsibilities of the Shared Lives Approval Panel. Two professionally qualified and experienced social workers were recruited to the Shared Lives Team. The Head of Shared Lives visited the Shared Lives Scheme in Moray, Scotland and ongoing regular workshops were held jointly with Positive Futures Shared Lives scheme to consider and share best practice, and to develop and provide peer support. At the C03 Leadership Awards in March 2024, the Head of Shared Lives was highly commended in the cate of'Partnershi and Collaboration,. At Year 5 of the Age at Work programme, 32 Mid-career Review sessions were delivered which resulted in S02 participants receiving Mid-career Reviews. This project supports older workers to remain in, or return to work and contributes to improving the independence and wellbeing of older people. Quotations provided from Nl beneficiaries of the Age atwork programme, which focused on the Mid-career Reviews (the area of the programme which Age Nl delivered) include: "Very insightfvl and learned a good deal.- (Male, NI, MCR) "Learned very usefvl, practical things, gained new knowledge re. penslons and feel encouraged to take action.- (Female, Nl, MCR) "Provided a very helpful overview of financial planning and pensions, well delivered and clearly articulated by both course presentets. Has encouraged me to think more about how I might start to save more with a view to building up more firFancial securi for retirement.- Female NI MCR Age Nl's Independent Living Products range has grown to provide older people and their families with practical options to improve their independence and remain living in their homes. The Age Nl Independent Ltving Products portfolio includes.. Mobility furniture for independent living, including adjustable beds and lift and riser recliners. We have added this range of products to our portfolio within this financial year which include updated products and services provided by 3 paty partners. Mobility aids, including beds, seating and stair]ifts. Bathroom Adaptations, which includes trip-free and anti-slip showers, shower seats, walk in baths, toilets and accessories and support rails. Key Safes- outdoor key safes to keep the home and keys safe, which help a person to share their home access with care providers, emergency services and loved ones safely and securely. Personal Alanns in Northem Ireland - if a person is in an accident or has a fall, they can get help quickly by pressing their alami pendant. Age Nl has been working with multi-disciplinary teams including social workers, health professionals and trusts to promote the product. In addition, Age Nl's ezine has been distributed to all Nl harmacies bi-annuall which romotes Personal Alarms. Places- Prepare for our ageing demographic by creating an age friendly society 18 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 10 Age Awareness Workshops were delivered to 129 participants. Age Awareness Training supports customer service teams to learn how to communicate better with older eo le, and ultimatel enable older customers to feel valued and understood. Age Nl supported the Age Sector Networks (ASNI in the following ways, as they strengthen community based older people's organisations and deliver at a local level. Built and maintained strong and effective relationships with Age Sector Ne￿orkS across all 11 local council areas. Supported effective capacity building and transitional pro￿sseS with networks. Planned and facilitated five ASN exchange meetings and 1-1 support to promote shared learning, best practice, knowledge exchange and collaboration. Produced and circulated 10 editions of Signpost ezine. Age Nl supported Age Sector Network representatives to participate in policy and engagement activities.. Promoted active engagement of older people, local groups and ASNS to gather experiences and case studies. Facilitated ASNS to support and promote older people's direct engagement in statutory policy consultations such as the review of the Regional Infrastructure Support Programme, Community Transport and Concessionary Fares. Age Nl provides secretariat support to the Age Friendly Network Nl and encourages the participation of Age Sector Networks (ASNS) in Age Friendly initiatives, including: Promoting and supporting the voice of older people in Age Friendly engagement mechanisms, initiatives, and activities, such as setting up of ￿0 50 + forums to engage with Councils. Sharing Age Friendly progress and best practices across Councils and ASNS. Supporting the development, autonomy and sustainability of age sector ne￿orkS in five council areas rovidin ke service delive Age Nl has been involved in the Frailty Ne￿Ork Nl. Five members of Age Nl's Consultative Forum contributed to Frailty Network Nl Task and Finish groups. We were delighted that our Consultative Forum Chair was the first speaker at the Frailty Network Conference, which was organised in collaboration with the British Geriatric Society. Age Nl benefrted from 484 volunteers being utilised throughout the charity, providing 542 volunteer opportunities. 94% of volunteers said they Feel they give back to communit 19 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Policy - Protect and promote the rights of older people 4,231 older people's voices were heard through Age Nl Policy and Engagement activities. Age Nl engaged with the Department for Infrastructure (Dfl) on the consultation proposals for change on concessionary fares, to ensure older people's voices were heard b decision makers. Age Nl acts as the Secretariat for the All-Party Group on Ageing and Older People. which ensures that the issues affecting older people are a priority for the Nl Assembly. Four meetings were held in this financial year and the subjects covered included: Managing and preventing frailty. The importance of prevention and early intervention. Loneliness O'oint meeting with the APG on Preventing Loneliness). An AGM to elect officers and identify priority issues for the following year. Age Nl provided support and briefings in relation to the Assembly Motion on Loneliness Strategy which followed the APG meeting on the matter. Following the Lived Experience research in 2020 and 2021, Age Nl conducted a third Lived Experience survey in Summer 2023. 983 people responded to the sur¥ey, 687 online and 296 by paper copy. The results demonstrate that the top 4 priorty issues for respondents were: 1. Equal access to appropriate healthcare and services 2. Keeping safe from scams 3. Transport and Travel 4. Rights of older people The outcomes of this third survey allow us to ensure older people's voices are being heard olic and decision makers, and sha esA eNI's olic riorities oin forward. Progressive Organisation - A professional, sustainable, well governed organisation driven by the voice of older people Development of ITldigital enhancements to SharePoint. Al, Cyber Security, smarter ways of working Age Nl has invested in Succession Planning for the Senior Management Team, as one member of the Operational Leadership Team (Head of Wellbeing Services) commenced the first year of a Post Grad Diploma in Health & Social Care Management (2 year programme). Age Nl has also provided opportunities for individuals to progress within the organisation. Age Nl has renewed and maintained the Cyber Essentials Plus Certification, which involves a rigorous assessment of an organisation's cybersecurity measures. To achieve this ￿rtIfiCatIon, an organisation undergoes a series of tests and vulnerability scans conducted by certrfied external assessors to ensure their systems are adequately protected against common cyber threats. The certification helps organisations demonstrate a higher level of cybersecurrty readiness and a commitment to safeguarding their information and s stems. 20 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Ststements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl retained the Gold Status of IIP (Investors in People) accreditation. Staff quotations from the IIP report, in response to being asked to 'Describe Age Nl as an employer, included. rf "It strives to make things better for olderpeople- I'm proud to woth there". "It's a great owanisation with very skilled, wann, and hardworking stafff. / .1 love worting here and have seen so many new services being introduced". °Age Nl is an excellent employer and very professional in dealing with service users and funders" "It s a great company to work for with an excellent reputation in the local communit Age Nl was successful in a number of proposals, which enable Age Nl to deliver key wellbein advice and en ement services and activities for our beneficiaries. Age Nl developed a new Gifts in Wills strategy to ensure older people will have the support they need in the future. We're delighted to report that Corporate Fundraising has performed well over the financial year and overall fundraising acttvities have returned to pre-covid 19 levels. The Board of Trustees delivered a Co-opted Trustee Recruitment process, to enable the Board to appoint individuals with the required skills, experience and expertise to the Boardlcommittee Structure. From this process, the Board appointed three Co- ted Trustees. Age Nl has utilised the recently developed Hybrid Working Policy, to enable staff to have theo ortuni to combine homeworkin and Offi￿ workin , where the role allowed. 21 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl Volunteers Age Nl and older people in Northern Ireland benefrted from 484 volunteers being involved throughout the charity providing 542 volunteer opportunities as some volunteers performed more than one role. Within this financial year more than 9,752 volunteer hours were delivered. Age Nl's volunteers help to engage with and support older people across Northem Ireland. particularly those who are disadvantaged, isolated or whose vol￿S are more difficult to hear. Our volunteers help support people who are isolated or lonely to connect to local community activities through our services, peer consultations, fundraising activities and volunteering in the shops. The following table is a breakdown of the areas our dedicated pool of individuals volunteer in: Age Nl Service 2023-2024 No of voluntee Fundraising 62 Carer Wellbeing Policy & Engagement- includes Consultative Forum, Peer Facilitators & Information Ambassadors, Pensioners Parliament Check in and Chat 89 232 Day Care 28 First Connect 27 Living Well Moyle 19 My Life My Wellbeing Staying Sharp Retaillshops 68 Totsl number of volunteer roles 542 Examples of some of the Volunteer activitieslevents delivered within this financial year include: Gardening in Laurelhill Day Centre and volunteering in Skainos Day Centre. A local financial services organisation held a 'Volunteering Day,. Approximately 60 volunteers were accommodated across Age Nl Day Centres and Shops in its 'One fim One Day, campaign. Volunteers, Week was held from 1-7 June 2023. To celebrate our volunteers, all volunteers received a thank you letter from the Chief Executive. a certificate of appreciation; and Age Nl merchandise to show the immense value placed on each Age Nl volunteer. We also held a Volunteer Recognition event during Volunteers, Week, which was attended by 82 volunteers. We were delighted that a local sports personality AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 attended and spoke about his experien￿ volunteering with the Check in and Chat Seniice. Volunteering has been beneficial twofold during this financial year, as on occasions the volunteers may have been the only constant communication during this time for the beneficiary, to maintain social interaction and to reduce isolation and loneliness. A quote from beneficiary and a volunteer for the Check in & Chat service: .1 get on very well with my volunteer. She makes me feel good no matter how l am feeling. I really look forward to her call,. (Beneficiary) '1 am just so pleased and blessed to be able to make some lonely person happy,. (Volunteer). Volunteering has been rewarding for the volunteers as the feedback below shows: > 990/0 are satisfied with the experience > 99./0 feel they give back to the community > 98°/0 enjoyed their volunteer role > 99Q/o would recommend this role to others > 95 % feel valued (Feedback was evaluated via an anonymous survey) A quote from an Age Nl volunteer 'A pU￿oSe in lrfe for me and a chance to help out in my communrty. Strategy for Delivery In order to deliver these goals, Age Nl works with older people directly, and within local communities across Northern Ireland and with Age Sector Ne￿OrkS. We advocate for positive change by engaging with policy makers to influence and shape the development of improved policies that practically deliver for older people. We influence public policy and society to improve attitudes towards ageing and older people by supporting the development of a strong, rights-based and sustainable age sector. We engage with and listen to the voice of older people and we provide direct high qualtty services to older people, such as care, wellbeing and advi￿ and advocacy services. As a progressive organisation, we seek to develop and maintain a sustainable resource platform. We encourage an effective and motivated staff and volunteer base who are committed to our culture and values- collectively we are committed to deliver our common purpose which is that Age Nl enables older people to make the very best of their lives and works to create a society that truly values. supports, and welcomes them. Our values are incorporated into everything we do: You matter- We care - Together we make a difference. We are outcome focused, enabling us to tell older people, our supporters, funders and our partners the story and impact of our work. We have a rights-based approach, empowering older people to know and to claim their rights and ensure that those who are responsible for upholding people's rights are held to account. We build stronger age sector partnerships, improving relationships with our Age Sector Ne￿orkS and the local groups they support. Working together in partnership, we can achieve even more for older people throughout Northem Ireland. 23 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 How Our Activities Deliver Public Benefit Our charitable purposes are listed below, which confirm that the beneficiaries for each purpose are those older people who are supported by our services and participate through our engagement activities, their families and the wider society. All of our charitable activities focus on promoting our purposes for the benefit of the public andlor older people. l. The Prevention and Relief of Poverty and the Relief of Those in Need by Reason of Age We provide support to older people in Nl by working directly with them and within local communities. We seek to eliminate pensioner poverty, to campaign for a modern and responsive health system and promote the fair and equal treatment of older people. To deliver these goals, we provide direct seniices to older people, such as care, wellbeing, advi￿ and advocacy. The direct benefits which flow from this purpose include an improved quality of life for older people, improved attitudes towards them and increased awareness of their needs. This has a direct benefit to older people, their families, local communrf(ies and wider society. The direct benefits are demonstrated through regular evaluation of seplices, feedback from older people, their families and Age Sector Ne￿OrkS. Within this financial year, we can confirm the impact made on our beneficiaries in relation to 'The Prevention and Relief of Poverty and the Relief of Those in Need by Reason of Age,. Through our Advice & Advocacy service, we can report (from feedback evaluated via bespoke, retrospective evaluations where impacts are self-reported) that 100 % of respondents said they have the ability to manage financially, 100°/o said they have increased choice and control and 100°/o said they are feeling more safe and secure. The following quotes from ￿0 of our Advice & Advocacy clients evidence the impact of our Advice & Advocacy Service to further the public benefit.. '[Advice Advisor] gave me a list of addresses and businesses providing various aids to make life more comfortable for me. The Attendance Allowance will help me to change my bathroom - remove bath and install walk in showerf. .1 have more peace of mind with a Ilttle bit of extra money to pay for things,. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 The following Case Study confirms the direct impact the Age Nl Advice and Advocacy Service has had on Couple A, two beneficiaries. The results of this Case Study fulfil the Object of 'The Prevention and Relief of Poverty and the Relief of Those in Need by Reason of Age, for the public benefit. Cou By way of background, Mr & Mrs A contacted the advice team through the Age Nl website in relation to Mr A's health problems and potential for additional benefits. The Advisor spoke to the couple to discuss Mr A's health problems. to check eligibility for Attendance Allowance(AA). As Mrs A had several health concerns herself, the Advisor also checked AA eligibility for Mrs A. Based on the information provided, the Advisor recommended that both Mr and Mrs A should make an application for Attendance Allowance. Circumstances: The Advice & Advocacy Adviser took the followng actions: After checking Mr & Mrs A's eligibility for AA, due to multiple health problems, the Adviser identified that the couple may be eligible to make separate applications for AA. AA claim fomis were requested from Department for Communities on behalf of the couple and the Advisor helped them complete the forms (tele-claim). Advised couple that if both are awarded AA. they may be eligible for a means-tested benefit such as Guaranteed Pension Credit (2x Severe Disability Premiums, and 2x Carers Premium's). Asked couple to inform Age Nl once they received their decision letters, so the Advisor could complete a benefit check. The couple confirmed that both were awarded high-rate A4. Completed a Benefrt Check for couple and the adviser identified entitlement to Guarantee Pension Credit, Savings Pension Credit and Rate Relief. Printed 2x Carers Allowance forms for the couple, helped them to complete each application (tele-claim) - advised couple to contact Age Nl once they receive decision letter. Couple contacted the advisor to advise they received the decision letter. and that both were awarded Underlying Entitlement to Carers Allowance. Advised couple that they would now be able to make an application for Pension Credit. Supplied client with the contact number to make telephone application for Pension Credit. Outcomes for the beneficiaries, following Age Nl actions: Couple A were awarded the higher rate of Attendance Allowance £101.75 each per week. As a couple they were awarded Guarantee Pension Credit of £99.18 per week, Savings Pension Credit of £17.84 per week, full rate relief of £18.76 per week. This resulted in an increased weekly income of £339.28 and an increased annual income of £17,642.56. 25 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Ststements Year ended 31 March 2024 This Case Study shows as a result of an Age Nl Advice & Advocacy Advisor taking a step- by-step approach, Age Nl was able to demonstrate to Mr & Mrs A that they would be eligible for further support, firstly with AA. Carers Allowance and then Pension CrediL which resulted in an increased annual income of £17,642.56. The following Case Study confirms the positive impact the Living Well Moyle Setvice has had on Lady B. The resufts of this Case Study fulfil the Object of 'The Prevention and Relief of Poverty and the Relief of Those in Need by Reason of Age, for the public benefit, in addition supporting her mental health and wellbeing. Lad Lady B is a 60 year old lady, who was referred to the Living Well Moyle Service (LWM) by her GP, for support around her mental wellbeing. From the initial home visit the LWM co-ordinator referredlsignposted the lady to various services. During the first home visit the LWM co-ordinator realised that the lady required one-to-one, step-by-step support and discussed the lady's life including numerous traumas, which have affected Lady B's qualty of life. Circumstances: From the initial visit the LWM Co-ordinator identified the following key issues affecting this lady. Lady B has been struggling financially and mentally for a number of years, and is living alone, following the death of her husband. Lady B doesn't leave the home, since the death of her husband, due to her physical and mental heatth. Lady B's home is in poor condition and is experiencing damp. Lady B appeared to have taken care with her appearance previously, but recently hasn't been able to devote this attention to her hair. The LWM Co-ordinator took the following actions". Contacted the Food Bank - they immediately delivered Home Heating Oil, a food parcel and a blanket. Completed a referral for one-tcFone support to complete a number of benefit forms, as Lady B was unable to complete the forms herself. Made an urgent referral to a local charity to help with Lady B's housing and support needs. Researched local mobile hairdressers and arranged that the hairdresser would visit Lady B on her birthday. Lady B was matched with a volunteer. Outcomes for the beneficiaries, following Age Nl actions: Lady B was on the waiting list for housing, but has now been rehoused in a new apartment. The local charity visits each week. providing a range of support, including life skills, budgeting and a listening ear. Lady B received a further Foodbank delivery at Christmas. Living Well Moyle Co-ordinator and Volunteer continues to provide support to Lady B. 26 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 This Case Study shows the impact, of one of Age Nl Wellbeing Services 'Living Well Moyle, has had on an older lady, who was experiencing physical, mental health and financial issues. This service was able to address multiple issues and provide the required support to improve the lady's life. By putting the tailored support in place, this lady has experienced positive results, which for the purpose of this Object have been a new home, a foodbank delivery including a Christmas dinner and a further food package, and budgeting support. Lady B complimented the Living Well Moyle sen11￿ by saying 'Thank you fmm the bottom of my heart forall you have done for me. I really appreciate IL You have a heart of gold,. 2. The Advancement of Human Rights We adopt a rights-based approach, empowering older people to know and claim their rights and ensuring that those responsible for upholding their rights are held to account. Age Nl also seeks to work with policy makers to encourage the development of policies that deliver for older people. The direct benefits which flow from this purpose include the promotion of equality and diversity by eliminating discrimination on the grounds of age and the fairer treatment of older people due to an increased knowledge and understanding of their needs and rights. The direct benefits are demonstrated through regular evaluation of services, feedback from older people, their families and policy makers and through the changes in policy brought about through Age Nl's inteniention. Age Nl's Policy & Engagement team continued to work towards fulfilling the object of 'The Advancement of Human Rights, through many strands of policy and public affairs, engaging with the Consultative Forum. age sector ne￿orkS and stakeholders. Within this financial year 4,231 older people's voices were heard through Policy & Engagement activities and 1,925 professionals were engaged with on issues that matter to older people. The following examples are key pieces of work delivered within the last financial year. We believe Age Nl has delivered significantly, in gaining and representing the views of our beneficiaries, and liaising closely with key policy makers, whilst seeking to hold them to account. to improve the lives of older people in Northern Ireland. Lived Experience 2023 As a follow up to Lived Experience research in 2020 and 2021, Age Nl conducted a third Lived Experience survey in Summer 2023. In the initial stages of this survey, the Policy & Engagement team engaged wrth Age Sector Nelworks and members of the Consultative Forum for the coproduction and planning of Age Nl's Lived Experience 2023 survey. A total of 983 people responded to the survey,. 687 online and 296 using a paper copy. As with previous sunieys, the opportunity to participate was widely circulated through Age Friendly officers in councils. Nl Frailty Nemtork and Age Sector Ne￿OrkS, Age Nl's social media channels, email networks and Signpost Express. 27 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Context: In designing the 2023 survey, the Policy & Engagement team built upon the structure and findings of the previous Lived Experience research. The decision was made to continue using the thematic areas of support; health and social care. and communication and connection. Within the survey. each participant was given the opportunty to rate five issues, in order of importance, as well as include additional comments. Outcome of the survey: The results of the 2023 suniey demonstrate that the top 4 priority issues across the 3 thematic areas were: equal access to appropriate healthcare and services. keeping safe from scams; transport and travel" and rights of older people. The questions revealed important numerical data such as. finding that only 9 % of respondents had created an Advance Care plan; 24 % had experienced problems getting the social care needed for themselves or someone they care for," and 38 % had been unable to book a GP appointment when needed. The comments left by participants also provide a rich insight into the issues older people are concemed about and what they think should be done to address them. The 2023 Lived Experience report completes a set of three research papers which have allowed us to ensure older people's voices were heard during, and as we emerge from the pandemic. What have the findings of the Lived Experience Survey enabled Age Nl to do? / The findings have allowed Age Nl to track and highlight the priority concerns of older people throughout the last four years and ensure that policy makers are kept informed of these. O sin￿ the 2023 research was completed, Age Nl has presented the findings to the All Party Group on Ageing and Older People and shared with partners in the age sector. A representative of the Consultative Forum gave a presentation to the APG on the subject of access to GP services based on the Lived Experien￿ 2023 findings. / Age Nl produced a briefing paper on loneliness from the data and it was sent to MLAS and stakeholders in advance of the joint meeting of the All Party Groups on Ageing and Older People and on Preventing Loneliness. O We will continue to draw from Lrved Experience 2023 to inform Age Nl priorities and as we engage further with the Nl Assembly, Ministers and officials. Concessionary Fares In June 2023, the Department for Infrastructure launched a public consultation on proposed changes to the Concessionary Fares Scheme. This scheme provides discounted and free travel on buses and trains for members of the community who are at risk of social exclusion. In the absence of Executive ministers, departmental officials were exploring cost saving measures to relieve budgetary pressures and proposed removing free travel for those in the 6044 age group. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 This proposed policy change would have a significant impact on older people aged 60-64. What actions did Age Nl take to support its beneficiaries in the proposed changes to the scheme? > Age Nl's policy and engagement team set out to support older people to be involved in the consultation process. Older people's right to be consulted about decisions that affect their lives can only be realised through effective support and access to decision-makers. > Age Nl set up a consultation session between the officials and Age Nl's Consultative Forum. This was an extremely robust session during which Consultative Forum members were able to present their views and the concerns of older people more broadly. Age Nl facilitated consultation sessions with the Age Sector Ne￿orkS and the Age Friendly Ne￿ork, ensuring that the views we gathered were as representative as possible, taking in a wide geographical and socio-economic spread. Age Nl also included a question on transport and travel in the 2023 Lived Experience survey and the responses were analysed to inform the concessionary fares consultation. > Prior to the written response, Age Nl had undertaken a range of engagements and could therefore be confident that we were able to represent the vol￿$ of older people. We were also able to use social media and our other communication networks such as Signpost Express, to encourage older people to submit their own responses directly. > Age Nl submitted a written response to the Dfl consultation in August 2023. Outcomes: / Having heard the views of older people on the proposal to withdraw the 60-64 Smartpass from older people, Age Nl was able to take a strong position and called for the retention of this vital servi￿. / In February 2024 the new Minister made a statement in the Assembly that he hopes to retain the scheme for 60-64 year olds in light of the strength of the views submitted during the consultation process. 29 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl Consultative Forum Engagements During this financial year, our activities on the 'Advancement of Human Rights. focused on promoting the rights of older people and ensuring the voices of older people were heard. Age Nl's Consultative Forum's purpose is to identify the needs of older people (in relation to poverty, health, equality, social and other issues) and communicate these to Age Nl. The Consultative Forum meetings are seniiced by and supported by the Age Nl Policy & Engagement team, as the Consultative Forum is an integral part of Age Nl's work (Further information is provided on Page 53). The following table provides a sample of how the work of the Consultative Forum and the Age Nl Policy & Engagernent team continued to fulfil the 'Advancement of Human Rights, object for our beneficiaries. Areas of work undertaken with stakeholders Outcomes from the work undertaken All-Party Group on Older People - Regular APG meeting: MLAS and others. QUB SPACE Leadership for Healthy People and Planet - Engagement on ways in which the environment impacts on brain health. Advance Care Planning - QUB developing an online resour￿ to support Advan￿ Care Planning. Increased awareness of the issues that matter to older people, which included updates from Age Nl Lived Ex erience 2023 findin Four Consultative Forum members participated and are on the Advisory Group for project. A Focus group was held on making online resource appropriate and user-friendly. (Advan Care Planning was refenBd to as an issue of Lived Experien￿ Survey). QUB confirmed its resource has been amended and a further evaluation has been held. Consultative Forum members gave feedback on PHA'S approach to strategy and will seek further engagement. Public Health Agency (PHA) Agewell Strategy- Focus Group reviewing proposed outcomes for PHAA ewell Strate Public Health Agency (PHA) Approach to Engagement - PHA is developing its approach to engagement and wants to include older eo Ambulance Materials Review- Review of leaflet and video 'What ha ens when ou call 999" Improving Hospital Discharge - Health & Social Care Quality Improvement (HSCQI) are developing projects across Nl on rovin Hos ital Dischar Age Nl continues to engage with PHA on approaches to engaging with older people. Northem Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) re￿Ived valuable suggestions from Consultative Forum and wish to come back for future in ut. HSCQI received Lived Experience input from Consultative Forum members, to be fed into their team meeting in November 2023. Further engagement was held in January 2024. 30 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Ststements Year ended 31 March 2024 Review of Community Transport- Department for Infrastructure (Dfl) is reviewing Community Transport rovision both urban & rural. Department for Infrastructure (Dfl) Con¢essionary Fares Consultation - Dfl consultation on Concessionary Fares - relevant to older eo le's travel asses. Fuel Poverty- Department for Communities (Dfc) has convened a Fuel Povety Strategy Reference Panel. Frailty Network Nl Conference - Conference of health staff and professionals and voluntary and commun sector on frail Consultation on Ageism, led by Commissioner for Older People in Nl (COPNI) - Events & Survey throu hout on a eism. Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, led by The Executive Office - Consultation on Strategic Framework and Action Plan for Ending Violence against Women & Girls 2023 - 30. Consultative Forum members contributed the benefits of Communty Transport and the importance of it being retsined and improved. Age Nl's response was submitted including the views and examples of impact given by Consuttative Forum members and other older people. (Further details are included above). The Consultative Forum Vice-chair is a member on this Reference Panel. conferen￿ opened by the Consultative Forum Chair. Ann Murray. Members of the Consultative Forum participated in COPNI'S consultation on ageism. Age Nl contributed to shaping the strategy and it is now out for public consultation. 31 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 4. The Advancement of Education We offer independent. confidential advice and support to older people, their families and carers on a range of issues including; welfare benefits, housing and health and social care. In so doing we help older people to negotiate the health and social care system, access appropriate levels of community care and help those who have experienced or are at risk of poverty or abuse. The direct benefrts which flow from this purpose include the education of older people on what they may be entitled to in order that they might have an improved quality of life. We also play a role in educating wider society about older people,. improving attitudes towards them, increasing awareness of their needs and eliminating discrimination on the grounds of age. The direct benefits are demonstrated through regular evaluation of sepiices, feedback from older people, their families and policy makers and through changes in policy brought about through Age Nj's inteniention. Age at Work- Year S One of the highlights for Age Nl within this financial year was the continued successful delivery of the Age at Work programme, which supports older people to remain in or return to work to help them have enough income, stay connected and have a fuller working life. Age at Work is an example of how Age Nl has jointly provided a bespoke project dedicated to the 'Advancement of Education, for our beneficiaries now and in the future. Age at Work is a projectjointly led by Age Nl and Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), in partnership with their counterparts in Scotland and Wales, which has been operational since 1 May 2019. Age Nl delivers the Mid-career Reviews with the older workers and BITCNI works with Employers to deliver the Still Ready for Work programmes. Within this financial year, Age Nl delivered 32 Mid-career Review sessions with 502 participants attending. The content of the Mid-career Review sessions included: Finance Health and Wellbeing Career From the beginning of the programme in 2019, Age Nl has delivered Mid-career Reviews to a total of 1,728 participants. The following information has been provided by Bean Research, the external evaluator commissioned for the Age at Work Progamme, which covers the 5 years of the Age at Work Programme. It provides evidence of the success of the Age at Work programme for our beneficiaries for the 'Advancement of Education. object, as it shows how the programme has benefited 2,011 older workers and 135 employers in the programme. 32 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age atwork: Northern Ireland 1011 231ntc Ernoltyrtffili I 7?8 dÈal p-obl￿=. 455V￿ e59. 25 Agè Leadetshrp 75 Learnin9 erviork 30 Attended Evenl 32 chJffsed lup 136%>. lup 72% 49T￿lt mDve ithrrn•d & B4% lofvid lup10%1 Irf* 6th0. 76 us@d Toolkits & 108 compleied Business 135 l.W4luMbl* lup 22%18 r.f¥thw• Employers engaged over S ￿r= 92°* SIDII fiExibifrtylu• OldtffPtYJtrnDolc.' Maywipioendiy Y512024I PrE. P95t& 6 WonthPosiSufww"ligwe,fyom Outcort Age Awareness Training Age Awareness Training is another example of how Age Nl has delivered the 'Advancement of Education. object for the public benefrt. Age Nl has been delivering Age Awareness Training to organisations Sin￿ September 2022, following a request from an energy provider for training to be delivered, to help its staff be more responsive to the needs of older customers. Age Awareness Training aims are to: Breakdown Age Stereotypes. Understand the challenges facing older people. Learn the factors influencing communication with older people. Improve communication between generations. Discover how to signpost older customers who need other support. Within this financial year, 10 Age Awareness Workshops were delivered to 129 participants, who benefitted from the Age Awareness Training, and 900/0 reported that the overall session was 'excellenV. Participants were from a range of organisations including three councils, energy providers. a Further Education College, a charity, a bank and COPNI. 33 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Quotes from attendees who benefited from the Age Awareness Training include: 'Everything about it was so infonnative. 'The presenter gave examples of how we could relate strategies to our own jobs which was particularly useful, 'Very infonnative and interesting, and definitely makes you more aware and understand older people, 'Very interesting. I really benefitted from it, 'Great training. lots of information and knowledge sharing, 'Very enjoyable and interactive, 'The presenter was very knowledgeable, 'Brilliant session delivered fantastically well by presenter. 'Really enjoyable session and very beneficial in our customer service role, 'Very good presentation, 'Good amount of interaction and learning, 'Interesting presentation and food for thought, 'Very useful to learn of the services that Age Nl has. Will be useful for the future, 34 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Good Vibrntions OVENBER Good Vibrations programme funded by Movember Age Nl's Good Vibrations Men's Health & Wellbeing Programme is an example of how Age Nl has delivered to a section of our beneficiaries, to satisfy the object of 'The Advancement of Education,. Background While significant work has been achieved to improve Northern Ireland's male mental health, most projects are aimed at younger men. Age Nl secured Movember's support to scale up two programmes (Good Vibrations and Age at Work) which have had demonstrable mental health and wellbeing impacts for individuals aged 50+ Good Vibrations is a three year programme, which aims to improve the health and wellbeing of men aged 50+ across Northem Ireland. The key beneficiaries of this programme will be the 7,900 Males 50+ directly impacted by the service delivery and 100,000 indirectly. Age Nl's Good Vibration delivers support in partnership with a wide range of organisations, including Inspire Wellbeing and Business in the Community, Action Mental Health, Groundwork Nj's ne￿Ork of Men's Sheds, Counselling for All Nations, NICSSA, Public Health Agency, Relate, Men's Health Forum in Ireland and Ulster University. In conjunction with our partners, this funding helped to apply a male gendered lens to these successful programmes to address the specrfic mentsl wellbeing needs of men aged 50+ It also helped Age Nl to increase support to older men. Good Vibrations is delivered to our beneficiaries in the aged 50+ males within the following tiers.. Tier 1: Guidance for 5,000 to improve emotional wellbeing and mental health through self- help. Within this financial year- > Awareness Campaign.. indirect reach to 842,954 people. > Good Vibration Guides: 8000 brochures were distributed. > l-connect: access to Inspire Wellbeing platform. 13 new registered users. Tier 2: Support for 2,700 to access career and wellbeing freephone advice, online programmes and social prescribing services to connect them with their P￿rS and local communities. Within this financial year: > Freephone Advice: 746 calls from men were answered to support wtth advice. > Good Vibrations Wellbeing Programme:151 participants attended the group sessions. which includes 27 one-off infomiation sessions. > Career Review Workshops: 300 participants attended the Career Review Workshops, which were delivered by Business in the Community. > Social Prescribing: 253 men re￿iVed a social prescription. 35 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Tier 3: Bespoke interventions including guided conversations for 200 males 50+ with a buddy support option. It deploys a mix of virtual, face to face, telephone, peer to peer and volunteer support. Within this financial year- 102 men were provided with bespoke support. Move More Live More The Move More Live More project is another example of how Age Nl is fulfilling the 'Advancement of Education, object for its beneficiaries. Move More Live More aims to reduce the risk of falls in people over 65 by improving activity levels, strength. balance and overall health and wellbeing. This year programme shares information and encourages activities aimed at preventing falls, so more older people can get the most out of later life. Age Nl delivers Move More Live More as part of a consortium, which is led by Taking Care (part of AXA Health) and includes the Public Health Agency, the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, Big Motive and Ulster University. The following stats are a stark reminder of the importance of preventative projects like Move More Live More.. 26.000 1in3 50% alder people ••• attend emergency departmensafter over-65 year olds ¥MII fall 31 le35t once of over 85.5 will fall ai least once The programme delivered three tiers of intervention.. l Tier1 All participants received a Move More Live More infonnation guide from Age Nl, which is based around the Public Health Agency's (PHA) Take (Aimed at earty Five Steps to Wellbeing along with sharing expert advice and tips, inteNention together wtth physiotherapist-approved strength and balance exercises. through education and Tier 1 participants were added to the Move More Live More mailing list to infom7ation. receive regular health and wellbeing updates from Age Nl. For those who expressed an interest in leaming about falls prevention, but who may not have eXperIen￿d a fall)- Within this financial year- > 488 booklets were distributed via groups and other Age Nl wellbeing services. > Around 3000 digital copies of the booklet were sent out via email. 36 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Tier 2 A six week programme was delivered on Zoom and face-to-face, supported with weekly health and wellbeing updates. The six week programme covers the following topics: Staying Strong My Lrfe My Goals Nourish and Nurture Think Well Live Better Invest in Rest Staying Safe (Aimed at individuals who may have expenenced at least one fall in the past year). Within this financial year.. > 202 Tier 2 sessions were delivered (via Zoom and face-to-face). > 18 one-off health and wellbeing tslks were delivered. Tier 3 Participants trialled innovative new wearable technology. This monitored a range of physical metrics including daily patterns of movement and periods of immobility, daily steps, sleep quality and quantity, enabling prompts to move, guidan￿ on exercise a range of outputs to be calculated, including the risk of a fall. If risks were elevated and sustained, the user andlor carer was alerted. In 2023-24, 151 people partiGipated in Tier 3 of Move More Live More. (Aimed at individuals deemed at a higher risk of having a fall, as a result of having experienced two or more falls in the last year). Note." This device did not provide falls-detection (impact detection). However, by closely monitoring potential signs of a fall, this aimed at prompting the wearer/user to take actions to prevent a fall in the future. 37 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Examples of howAge Nl's services provide 'Advancement of Education, for our beneficiaries are included below, derived from feedback provided by respondents, as they said 'Got infomiation they could use.: (Evaluated via bespoke, retrospective evaluations wherE impacts are self-rEported). > 95.2°A of respondents from the Wellbeing SeNices. 98.5°A of respondents from Care Services. 100% of respondents from Advice & Advocacy. 100% of respondents from the Check in and Chat Service. Feedback from Good Vibrations beneficiaries said: 'Thank you for bringing this learning to our group. It has realty got us talking and support us to open up conversations around men's health,. 'It's an education, gives us food for thought, you are planting a seed in our heads through the videos and presentations you are showing us.. A Move More Live More beneficiary said, 'The booklet is so full of information. I've read it so much and keep getting l￿w things from it that are very helpful.. A quote from a representative of Nl Ambulance, which was given at a Consultative Forum meeting in ￿latiOn to Co-Production with Nl Ambulance: 'It was a really valuable session, in tem)s of the input, and also the networking. Wow, what an amazing set of people you have working with you,. 38 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Ststements Year ended 31 March 2024 The Advancement of Health or the Saving of Lives We help older people to negotiate the health and social care system, access appropriate levels of community care, and help those who have experienced or a￿ at risk of abuse. We provide direct care seniices to clients across residential, domiciliary and day care and also provide practical and emotional support to older people. Age Nl actively works wtth the government to tackle the barriers of poverty, discrimination and isolation and improve health and social care provision. The direct benefits which flow from this purpose include improved health outcomes and better care for older people in Northern Ireland through the provision of care, the education of older people on how to care for themselves and what support is available to them and through the influence on policy and provision of healthcare. The direct benefits are demonstrated through regular evaluation of services and feedback from older people, their families and policy makers and through changes in policy brought about through Age Nl's intervention. The following table shows the impact of our ServI￿S for this purpose, as provided by respondents.. Advice and Advocacy Service ' 100'/o reported improved physical wellbeinglhealth. 100 % reported they are less stressed orworried. 1100°k reported increased choice and control. 98 % reported feeling less lonely. 980/0 reported feeling I belong in my community. 980A reported ability to carry out daily living tasks. 9711/0 reported less isolated. 9311/0 reported improved physical wellbeinglhealth. Wellbeing Servi￿$ . A few quotes from service users of our Wellbeing Services: 'Thank you so much for sending this (recording) to me. Not being from a medical background, I found the infom7ation about how the b(￿Y changes with age very interesting. The exercises were very clearty explained and demonstrated. I am hoping that mypaffj"cipation at an earty stage will help me to age better and prevent falls in the future,. (Move More Live More). 'Life changing for me, new home, benefits sorted. meeting new people, really helped me,. (Living Well Moyle). 'Fantastic support at a difftult time in my life,. (First Connect) 39 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Care Services . 100 /0 reported feeling less lonely. 1 OOQ/o reported increased social contact. 1000/0 reported feeling less isolated. 98Q/o reported improved physical healthlwellbeing. 100°/o of those surveyed said 'very satisfied with the service, and 100 % Yelt listened to and supported,. 1000/0 reported feeling less lonely. 100Q/¢ reported feeling less isolated. 1000/0 reported feeling less stressed or worried. Check in and Chat. Quotes from a few Servi￿ users from the Check in and Chat Servi￿.. '1 get on very well with my volunteer. She makes me feel good no matter how l am feeling. I really look fO￿an1 to her call,. 'Love the service. I haven't been out in a year. It helps me stay connected,. Shared Lives The following feedback was provided in Year 1 of Age Nl's new Shared Lives project.. 'Before Shared Lives I tended to be very much trapped in the house. I was really rather isolated. If you can get two people who share interests and one is pethaps considerably younger than the other, I think it's an 8xcellent idea - giving people the movement and Ilexibilty to do things that othe￿iSe they might not be able to do,. (Shared Lives Participant) 'It makes me happy to Sha￿ my life with [Shared Lives Participant] and iys wonderful to see how our new fnendship is making a positive impact on tthe participant SJ life, which is really important. If anyone is thinking about becoming a Shared Lives Carer I can tell you that it is a r8ally great idea,. (Shared Lives Care¢ ' Evaluated via bespoke, retrospective evaluations where impacts are self-reported. Data above combines snapshot evaluation responses and Servi￿ speafic evaluations. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Age Nl's Care Services deliver this object for both the Servi￿ user and their familylcarer. This is evidenced by quotes provided for different seniices within the Care servI￿s umbrella. Examples include.. service user carer ymem er Domiciliary Care in Castlewellan and Downpatrick 'WithoLrt the seniice I would find it very difficult to get washed and dressed in the morning and it gives me better quality of life.. .1 feel that they give [loved one1servi￿ user] the best care they can so she can go out and lead a good quality of life,. 'Enabled my husband and I to enjoy two weeks of resptte care while my daughter who is my main carer had a well-earned holiday,. 'Re-assurance that my father has been looked after and cared for,. y Life My Choice- home support service in the Belfast Health & Social Trust area. .1 look forward to single outing on Friday,. 'Gives me a few free hours on Friday afternoon and I enjoy the conversations I have with super young man who empathises with both my brother and me,. '1 really look forward to my weekly visit. It helps me get out and about, to do some shopping. It also gives my family a break. As they know l am in safe hands for several hours,. 'The service benefits me in many ways. I could ask staff who take me out to anywhere I want to go. It is never a problem they pick me up whenever I want and bring me home safely again,. 41 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 e Nl Servi¢e Quotation provided by service user Quotation provided by carerlfamily member Day Care- provides an opportunity for activity and friendship, redLJCtion in isolation and loneliness. '1 feel less lonely and have lots of Fun,. '1 am very satisfied with the service. The staff are very friendly and very caring towards the people attending the Day Centre. They always take a few minutes to let you know how the day has went,. '1 feel I have a sense of belonging and part of the [Day Centre] family,. 'Really look forward to a Monday, as I know it's my day to meet with friends and staff . 'Mum gets picked up three days a week and happily attends the Castlewellan Day Centre. Even though she is very confused in her dementia, she knows the staff are kind and friendly and trusts them well. This is a great help to my 90 year old dad who primarily looks after my mum on the other days in the week,. Meadowbank Residential Home is located in Omagh. It enables older people living with dementia to remain living in a home-like environment. 'We have excellent care 24[7. Its meticulously clean, the food is excellent. I get to do tasks that I'm able to do safely - they promote that. The staff here are really good at what they do. If I have any questions or I need anything they go out of their way to get it for me. I find them well-mannered and disciplined -just beautiful people. The staff is there for me no matter how small,. 'My mother has thrived when she was moved to Meadowbank. I could not speak highly enough of them all. She is attended to with love and affection and that has meant the world to me as I've moved house further away and can't visit as frequently. This is a very good nursing home and I would highly recommend it to anyone for their loved ones,. 'It has taken a lot of stress away from the family knowing our loved one is being cared for so well,. 'All the staff are friendly and very helpful. If you want something done they come to your aid right away. Its first class. Staff are very kind. They take you for walks. All your laundry is washed and ironed.. 'My mum calls Meadowbank home that says it all for me,. 42 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 It's very respectable and efficient. I think it's lovely. The décor is very nice, I've no complaints. When you leave home it's nice to have a warm comfortable place to come to,. '[ am very content that my brother is in a very safe place and very well looked after. Thank you,. The following short case studies of older people living with dementia in Meadowbank Residential Home provide evidence of how this service has impacted the older person and provides assuran￿ to the family. The personal stories align with RQIA'S quality review mechanism- Is care safe? Is care effective? Is care compassionate? Meadowbank Resident- Gentleman C Circumstance.. Gentleman C was in hospital and could no longer be Cared for at home, Meadowbank was contacted for an emergency admission. Impact/change Meadowbank Residential Ca￿ has had on Gentleman C." Initially Gentleman C was unsettled. resistive to care being provided by staff and displayed exit seeking behaviour, however after getting to know staff and his environment he has settled very well and staff are now able to assist with all his care needs. Assurance from familyffriends of Gentleman C.. Gentleman C is so much more settied he is very content in his environment, friends and famity can now enjoy their visits and spending time with Gentleman C. Meadowbank Resident - Lady D: Circumstance.. Lady D was admitted to Meadowbank from home for an emergency respite period, she was living with her husband who was in hospital and very unwell. Lady D was unsafe living at home due to her increased Confusion and risk of falls and would be often found walking unaware of her surroundings. lrnpactlchange Meadowbank Residential care has had on Lady D: Lady D has settled well into life in Meadowbank, she was very nervous and anxious on admission however this has now resolved and she is very content and happy. Assurance from famiSyfftiends of Lady D: Lady D's husband was initially very hesitant about her coming to stay in Meadowbank even for a short period and did discuss with her social worker about taking her home, however when he was discharged from hospital and able to visit her in Meadowbank he wanted her to stay permanently as he realised how content she was and how he would no longer be able to provide the care at home that she needed. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Meadowbank Resldent- Gentleman E: Circumstance.. Gentleman E was being cared for at home by his family and was admitted to hospital due to deterioration in health, he was becoming increasingly unsettled and agitated and sleep pattern was very poor, he had lost a lot of weight, family fett they were struggling to provide the proper care that he required. Impact/Ghange Meadowbank Residential care has had on Gentleman E.. Since Gentleman E's admission to Meadowbank he has become more settled, sleep pattem has greatly improved and he has gained weight. Assuran￿ from family/friends of Gentleman E.. The family are very happy with how Gentleman E's heaith has improved, the weight he has gained and his overall contentment within Meadowbank. The following Case Study is from the 'Staying Sharp, service. (Staying Sharp is a bespoke service tailored to support people living with mild cognitive impairment and early stages of dementia who reside in the Ballymena area). This particular Case Study provides evidence of how Age Nl has provided services to satisfy the purpose of 'The Advancement of Health or the Saving of Lives,, for a couple- in particular the case study focuses on the impact the service has on Gentleman F, an older gentleman who is also a carer ft)r his wife. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Gentleman F Gentleman F is a 91year old man who Cares for his 92 year old wife who has dementia. He is in relatively good heallh but suffers from macular degeneralion. The couple have three adult children, who don't live nearby. Gentleman F had a long teaching career including many years as a school principal and also developed many interests in his lrfetime. including photography and he continues to sing in a Church Ghoir as he has done for many years. Circumstances: As Gentleman F and his wife didn't have family living nearby, it meant that they had very limited opportunities for face to face contact. As a carer Gentleman F was feeling particularly isolated and was very welcoming of the r&introduction of social opportunities following the pandemic. The following actions were taken by the Staying Sharp Co-ordinator: Referral made to Age Nl Advice Team for a benefrt Check which resutted in payment of Attendance Allowance. Gentleman F was very praiseworthy of the assistance he received from the Advice Team. Invitation to join the Staying Sharp group - initial meetings post lockdown were in a local cafe with subsequent monthly meetings held at another venue within the same town. Gentleman F is a fegular contributor as well as attendee and has entertained the group with storytelling and sharing childhood memories via poetry and song. As Gentleman F has a keen interest in both history and literature he particularly enjoyed the visits to the Seamus Heaney Centre and Lockkeeper's Cottage. Additional assistance given.. Referrals were made to Dementia Navigator for Needs Assessment and follow up contact with Community Psychiatric Nurse {CPNI in Communrty Mentsl Health Team for Older People ICMHTOP}. to .OT, Alzheimer's Society and AbilityNet {charty which donates digital devices and provides volunteers to help older people to use the devices} Signposting to Mid & East Antrim Agewell Partnership (MEAAPI Handyman Service and to Floating Support. Practical and Wellbeing Outcomes: Gentleman F states that involvement wrth Staying Sharp has helped reduce social 1501ation and provided an opportunity for him and his wife to make new connections as well as providing a pleasant morning out. He also states that he has gained knowledge from the various contributors to the group sessions and has benefrtted from the contact with other group members who are in similar caring srtuations. Gentleman F appreciates the ongoing support for both himself and his wife and the signposting to other seNi¢es, as he likes the reassurance of having someone to contact wi(h any queries. Gentleman F states that one of the main benefits for him in participating in the group sessions is that it has encouraged him to 'use his brain, and given him a sense of purpose, which in turn has helped his mental health. Gentleman F adds that attending the group sessions lakes the focus away from your own worries. which he finds helps his mental health. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Such other charitable purposes for the benefit of older people as the Trustees may from time to time decide. This object is ancillary to the above objects and is required to allow Age Nl to develop the above objects over time where it is determined that there is need and relevance. Plans for Future Periods Age Nl's strategy was launched on 1 April 2022, and we're pleased to report on how we've delivered against our strategy within this financial year. Earlier in the report, we provided our outcomes against the priorities and our achievements against each of the strategic pillars within this financial year. In the next financial year, we'll seek to continue to deliver our serviceslprojects aligned to the Objectives, with a clear focus on where we'll be in 2025, as detailed in our strategy and below: Pillar Objective People By 2025, we will have supported the wellbeing and independence of more older people through a diverse range of high-quality ServI￿S and activities. Places By 2025, we will have driven forward the age friendly agenda through training. collaboration and sharing of good practi￿. Policy By 2025, we will have further promoted the voices and the righLa of older people through policy and engagement. Progressive Organisation By 2025, we will have fiJrther invested in the talent of our team, leadership, technology and engagement 46 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT The details of the charrty, its Offi￿rS and advisers who served the charity during the year are outlined on pages 2 and 3 of this report. Age Nl was incorporated on 4 March 2009, was established under a Memorandum of Association which sets out the objects and powers of the company and is governed under its Articles of Association. It commenced activities on 1 April 2009 and employs 123 competent staff (31 March 2024) who are fully committed to the mission and values of Age Nl. The Objects of Age Nl are listed on Page 4 of this report. The outcorne of this being the promotion of the well-being of older people. Board of Trustees The business of Age Nl is managed by the Board of Trustees, who meet four times a year. A Trustee is appointed for an initial period of four years, and may, subject to a recommendation from the Nominations Committee on each occasion, serve a further two periods of two years. The Age Nl Chair is Dr Raymond Mullan OBE and a list of Trustees is included on Page 2 of this report. Recruitment of Trustees Age Nl conducts a skills and experien￿ analysis of the existing Board, prior to delivering the recruitment process. This ensures the desired skills and experience are incorporated into the Job Description with a view to attracting suitable candidates to apply who meet the requirements of the Boardlcommittee structure and ultimately to govem the charity. Following the inteniiew pro￿sS, the Nominations & Remunerations Committee makes recommendations for the appointment of Trustee(s) to the Board of Trustees. Following a¢￿ptance of the recommendations, newly appointed Trustees are fomially inducted. They meet with the Chair, Chief ExecutFve and the Management team to familiarise themselves with the charity and to obsenie from an operational side. The Chair held annual board evaluation meetings with Trustees (1..1 virtual meeting) to discuss their term, contribution and performance on the Board and within the committee structure. The Chair provided the Board with a report of the conclusion of the 1.1 meetings. The Nominations & Remunerations Committee is responsible for the Board composition and succession planning of the Boardlcommrttee structure. The committee keeps abreast of the current and future position and make recommendations to the Board, as appropriate. Within this financial year, we delivered a recruitment process and appointed three Co-opted Trustees with specific skills and expertise to the Board and Committee structure. 47 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Boardroom Apprentice Within this financial year, Age Nl was a Host Board within the Boardroom Apprentice programme and gave a Boardroom Apprenti￿ the opportunity to attend Board and Committee meetings as an Observer. The following Case Study was provided by our Boardroom Apprentice within this financial year, on their experience within the Boardroom Apprenti￿ programme and with Age Nl.. '1 first became aware of the Boardroom Apprentice after watching [the Boardroom Apprentice founder's] Ted Talk on boanlroom diversity and pla￿"ng yourpart. A programme that matches you with a host board forpractical experience, while at the same time provides learning days to help develop skills in core areas, it definitely piqued my interest. As a consumer of ourpublic services, I feel there is considerable value to having a diverse board and I wanted to be able to play mypart in this. This was a unique opportunity not only to develop skills and confidence needed to take that next step. but also a valuable opportunity to meet and learn from people that may have different experiences and worldviews to myself. When appI￿"ng to Boanlmom Apprentice, Age Nl was my first choice when it came to host boards. For me. it was extremelypersonal. as Age Nl is an organisation close to my heart. I spent over twelve years navigating the health and social care systemi juggling work, while caring for my mother who suffered from dementia. I quickly became aware of the challenges faced by not only olderpeople but also those that care for them. This period was extremely challenging. but I received amazing help and advice fmm various people andplaces. I know first-handjust how vital charities such as Age Nl are in our society. For me, Boardmom Apprentice was the perfect opportunity to gain practical experience in a board setting, and to do it with an organisation that l am passionate about was a bonus. At the outset of the pmgram, I was appointed a 'board buddy,, who met with me. took me thmugh the boardpapers and shared their own Boardmom Apprentice experience with me. This was invaluable, particularly at the outset, when I was unfamiliar with how it all worked, and it could have been very overwhelming. It was great to have that extra support and to hear fmm someone who was a previous Boardmom Apprentice and now a member of the Age Nl board. Both the board and everyone at Age Nl have been extremely welcoming and the fact that the organisation has been a supporter of the Apprentice pmgram fmm the outset, shows how open they are to supporb.ng diversty in the boardroom. Over the course of the year the board room apprentices also attend eight learning days. focussing on areas such as finance, govemance, communication. As well as being invaluable in deepening understanding in these areas. the leaming days were an opportunty to meet the other boardroom apprentices and share our experiences and leam from each other. I have learned so much from attending the quarterly board and commfftee meetings and was lucky enough to attend the Age Nl Away Day, which for me, showcased the passion and commitment its people have for the organisation and the crucial mle it plays in Northem Ireland,. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Ststements Year ended 31 March 2024 Constituted Committees Within this financial year, the Chief Executive,. Miss L Robinson was supported by a Senior Management Team (Director of Marketing & Business Development., Mrs S Casey, Charity Director. Dr P McKeown, Finance Director,. Mr K Mcsherry and Governance Secretary; Miss C Law) and all were assigned across the committee structures in relation to the Terms of Reference of each committee. They prepared papers to enable Trustees to make informed decisions at the Board meetings and they attended the Board meetings to present their items and provide clarity on any questions raised by the Board of Trustees. Age Nl Subsidiary Age Nl Enterprises Ltd, a subsidiary Board of Age Nl is currently dormant. Board Structure of Age Nl Enterprises Ltd The Board of Age Nl Enterprises Ltd operated as a dormant company throughout this financial year. The Directors within this financial year were Mrs Diane Creevy, Mr Paul Moorhead and Mrs Aislinn McBride. Reporting to the Board of Trustees The Age Nl Board of Trustees receive reports from formally constttuted committees. namely the Audit & Risk Committee, Finance & Resources Committee, Nominations & Remunerations Committee and the Consultative Forum at each Board meeting to enable the Board to make informed decisions, when required. Audit & Risk Committee The Audit & Risk Committee takes delegated responsibility on behalf of the Board of Trustees to oversee the systems of governance, risk management and internal control within the charity, ensuring the charty is complying wtth all aspects of the law, relevant regulations and good practice. Specrfic responsibilities of the committee include, but are not limited to: Risk Management. We can confirm that any major risks which may arise are firstly highlighted within the Corporate Risk Register, are reviewed by the Audit & Risk Committee and recommendations of systemslprocedures are established and utilised through the Senior Management Team. The committee.. Ensures Risk Management is embedded across the whole charity. Monitors the Corporate Risk Register and ensures it is kept up to date. Reviews the risk management process to ensure it is adequate and operating effectively. Reviews Inspection Reports from RQIA for the delivery of care services and other relevant bodies. Receives updates on any safeguarding issues. Encourages a culture within the charity whereby each individual feels that he or she has a part to play in guarding the probity of the charity, and is able to take any concerns or worries to an appropriate member of the management team or in exceptional circumstances directly to the chair of the Audit & Risk Committee. 49 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Audit. The committee.. Advises the Board of Trustees on the minimum and optimum level of external and internal audit arrangements. Ensures the annual financial statements are true and fair, confomi to accounting standards and accounting policies are appropriate and applied consistently. This assurance is additionally provided by the Finance & Resources Committee. Reviews the performance reported in the Trustees, Annual Report and ensures it is a true reflection of the charity's perfomiance. Scrutinises and advises the Board on the contents of the draft audit report. Is responsible for reviewing the management letter and management responses to the auditor's findings and recommendations (post audit report). Discusses with the external auditors any problems or reservations arising from the draft extemal audit report and draft management letter, reporting relevant issues back to the board, and advising the board accordingly. Reviews the performance of the charity's auditors and advises the Board on any changes that ought to be made to their terms of engagement. Manages the selection of auditors, reviewing their services to the charity and recommending their appointment to the Board and will ensure the auditor is providing an adequate level of advice to the charity. Determines the frequency of tendering for external auditing services. Reviews the Annual Quality Report and has access to a selection of Regulation 29 Monthly Monitoring Reports for each service. Internal Controls. The committee: Considers all aspects of internal control, including the independent review of systems and controls, the nature and scope of any internal audit work and the monitoring of implementation of recommendations raised through this work. Considers the appropriateness of executive action following internal control or audit reviews and advises senior management on any additional or altemative steps to be taken. Reviews the operation of intemal and external audit and the adequacy of the level of assurance gained frorn the activities of both. Monttors the compliance of the charity with applicable law and regulation as well as the charity's own policies and procedures. Where appropriate. ensures there is co-ordination and good working relationships between internal audit, external audit and any other review bodies that have been set up. Regularly reviews the charity's finance risk register and receives regular reports from management providing information on the major financial risks fa￿d by the charity. Receives updates from the GDPR offi￿r, Head of People & Development, the Finance Director in relation to Insurance and Audit, and the Governance Secretary on behalf of the Governan￿ Group. The Tenns of Reference is ￿VieWed annually. The committee is authorised to investigate on behalf of the Board of Trustees anything that threatens or adversely affects the accomplishment of the charty's aims and objectives, its assets, the reliability of records and information, and its compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, policies and its governing instruments. It is authorised to obtain appropriate external legal and other professional advi￿ in order to fuKIl its responsibilty to the Board of 50 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Trustees and ensures the charity complies with the implementation of the Charity Commission and its guidelines where appropriate. During this period, the cofflmittee was chaired by Mr Edward Smyth. The Trustees and Directors on this committee wtthin this period were Mr Edward Smyth, Mrs Sarah Brady, Mrs Corey Parr (part), Mrs Marie Bernadette Heaney (part) and Mrs Mary Teresa Dunlop (part). The committee meets quarterly in advance of the Board meetings; it submits Minutes to each Board meeting, with relevant papers and an update of the meeting is presented by the committee Chair. Governance Group The Governance group was established to prepare and develop key governance documents, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, in alignment with the annual governancellegal requirements. During this period, the group consisted of one Trustee, Mr Edward Smyth, and the Governance Secretary. The Group provided updates and papers to Audit & Risk Committee, when required, to enable the committee to review and make the relevant recommendations to the Board of Trustees. Finance & Resources Committee The Finance & Resources Committee takes delegated responsibility on behalf of the Board of Trustees to oversee the financial and resource management, planning and sustainability of the Charty, to ensure the charity objectives are met. Specific responsibilities of the committee include, but are not limited to- Financial Perfonnance and Reporting. The committee: Considers the charity's financial plans. Reviews and endorses the quarterly management accounts and financial performance of the charity against the financial plans for approval by the Board. Keeps under review and monitors the cost effectiveness, efficiency and adequacy of the financial controls, financial risk management systems and operation of the charity. Exercises general oversight of the conduct of financial transactions and the maintenance of financial records including any ne￿SSary review of the charity's financial policies and procedures, delegations and mandates. Monitors and reviews the charity's budgets for approval by the Board. Monitors and reviews periodic financial reports to ensure that expenditure is not exceeded. Monrtors and reviews the charty's financial performance and invite managers or papers on particular matters to Finance & Resources Committee meetings to assist in these discussions. Regularly reviews the charty's finance risk register quarterly and re￿iVeS regular reports from management providing information on the major financial risks faced by the charity. Reviews the internal financial controls and financial management systems for all major or high-risk projects. Is responsible for reviewing any representstion letter(s) requested by the audttor before they are signed on behalf of the Board. Investigates on behalf of the Board any matter that may put the charity at financial risk. 51 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Investments. The committee.. Monitors and reviews the charity's arrangements in relation to investments including its Investment Policy, ensuring these arrangements are aligned with the charity's long-term strategic objectives. Makes recommendations to the Board in relation to the appointment, re- appointment and removal of the charity's investment advisors and managers. Meets with the investment advisors and managers as appropriate. Reviews the charity's arrangements in relation to reserves, including its Resenies Policy. This is reviewed in line wrth reviewing accounts annually. Business Cases. The committee considers the business case for major new initiatives and how to meet the financing requirements of these initiatives. Updates were received from: Director of Marketing and Business Development to monitor the income generation performance of the chartty. The Terms of Reference is reviewed annually. During this period, the committee was chaired by Mr Patrick Mullan, Treasurer. The Trustees and Directors on this committee within this financial period were Mr Patrick Mullan, Mrs Aislinn McBride and Ms Christine Magill (part). The committee meets quarterly in advance of the Board meetings; it submits minutes to each Board meeting and an update of the meeting is presented by the committee Chair. The Finan￿ Director and Chief Executive attended the full meetings. The Director of Marketing & Business Development attended for designated items. Nominations and Remunerations Comrnittee The Nominations and Remunerations Commtttee takes delegated responsibility on behalf of the Board of Trustees to ensure a formal, rigorous and transparent procedure for the appointment of new Trustees to the Board. It leads the recruitment of active and engaged people with the relevant knowledge, skills and experience to the Age Nl Board and makes recommendations on membership to the Board of Trustees. Spectfic responsibilities include, but are not limÈted to: Age Nl Trustees. The committee: Regularly reviews the structure, size and composttion of the current position of the Board and makes recommendations of any changes to the Board. Gives full consideration to succession planning for Trustees and senior executives in the course of its work and what skills and expertise are required for the future. Is responsible for identifying and nominating for the approval of the Board, candidates to fill Board vacancies as and when they arise. Ensures that on appointment to the Board, Trustees receive a formal letter of appointment to the Board. Age Nl Stsff members. The committee". Reports on the role of the Chief Executive, hislher subordinates and other key staff. 52 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Considers and provides recommendations to the Board on the appropriate salary and pension banding of staff. Monitors the leadership needs of the organisation, with a view to ensuring the continued ability of the organisation to compete effectively in the sector. Age Nl pay and remuneration for individual posts is detemiined by a recognised job evaluation scheme called the Greater London Provincial Scheme (GLPC). Age Nl has a licence to operate this scheme and there is a panel of employees who are trained to use it. Inflationary pay increases are agreed annually by the Board of Trustees and are dependent on Age Nl's financial posrtion in each financial year. Living wage and minimum wage increases are set by the Government. The Terms of Reference is reviewed annually. During this period, the committee was chaired by Mrs Patricia Davey. The Trustees and Directors on this commtttee within this financial period were Mrs Patricia Davey, Ms Hilary McDowell, Mr David Trelford (part) and Mrs Mary Teresa Dunlop (part). The committee meets ￿lce a year or more frequently if required, in advance of the Board meetings. It submtts minutes to each Board meeting and an update of the meeting is presented to the Board by the committee Chair. The Chief Executive attended the full meetings. The Head of People and Development attended annually to present the pension and salary banding and a member of the Senior Management Team may attend for specific items on an as and when required basis. The Age Nl Chair attended to present designated ttems. Age Nl Consultative Forum Consultative Forum was formed in 2010. The purpose of the Consultative Forum is to identify the needs and concerns of older people (in relation to poverty, heaf(h, equality, social and other issues) and communicate these to Age Nl. The Consultative Forum also engages wrf(h, advises and challenges Age Nl on policy issues and on its strategic direction. The work of the Consultative Forum covers the whole of Northern Ireland and focuses on issues affecting people over the age of 50. It works collaboratively with, and in support of, Age Nl. The Consultative Forum comprises 30 individual older people from across Northern Ireland. The Consultative Forum Chair is a Consultative Forum Trustee on the Age Nl Board. The Consultative Forum Meets in advance of each Age Nl Board meeting and the Consultative Forum Chair presents to the Board of Trustees a report on achievements within the quarter and an update of the last meeting. The meetings within this financial year returned to face- to-face meetings. Risk Management Risk Management is primarily considered by the Audit & Risk Committee on behalf of the Board and the Corporate Risk Register is presented to the Board bi-annually, providing there haven't been any significant potential risks which have arisen between the Board meetings. In addition to the Audit & Risk Committee reviewing risks, the financial risk area is discussed at each quarterly Finance & ReSoUr￿S Committee and findings conveyed to the quarterly Board meeting. 53 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 The process for maintaining, reviewing and presenting the Corporate Risk Register is that the Corporate Risk Register is regularly reviewed and updated by the Senior Management Team, prior to presentation to the Audit & Risk Committee. Each potential risk is entered into one of the four identified key risk areas.. Sustainabilty of Age Nl,. Breach of Corporate Governance" Damage to Reputation of Age Nl and Failure to Protect. Each risk includes a residual risk assessment and inherent risk assessment and details the controls in pla￿ and actions to be pursued. The Business Continuity Plans and Corporate Risk Register are in place to support risk management. These registers are reviewed by the Senior Management Team at their monthly meetings. The Operational Leadership Team is responsible for developing and keeping under review Departmental Risk Registers. Decision Making within Age Nl The Senior Management Team provides and presents papers to the Board and relevant sub- committees, working closely with the Chair of Age Nl, in advance of each Board meeting. The Operational Leadership Team, comprising the Chief ExecLrtive. Charity Director, Director of Marketing & Business Development, Finance Director and Heads of Departments, deliver the activities set out in the operational plan. They meet monthly to discuss and agree operational issues. The Board of Trustees comprises a Chair, Vice-chair, Treasurer and Trustees who bring a diverse range of skills and experience appropriate to the requirements of the Board. They provide strategic leadership to the Senior Management Team and its purpose is to contribute to the effective governance of Age Nl in promoting the vision, mission, aims and objectives of the organisation. The Board has an effective framework in pla￿ to authorise delegation. The Scheme of Delegation documents are reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees. Within this financial year. Age Nl Board had three sub-committees and the subsidiary company was dormant. Each committeelBoard considers particular issues in greater detail and advises the Board. Prior to each Board meeting, each committee provides Minutes and relevant papers, for information. The committee Chair will provide a verbal update of its previous meeting including recommendations, for approval, if appropriate. The Chief Executive provides a Chief Executive's Report to the Board of Trustees at each quarterly meeting, with updates from various departments. This includes highlights of the previous quarter and priorities for the quarter ahead. This ensures that the Board of Trustees is fully informed of the activities, performance and achievements of the charity for each quarter on an operational level. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 FINANCIAL REVIEW Incoming Resources Total incoming resources for the year ended 31 March 2024 were £5,638,710 (2023: £4,927,983). This includes donations and legacies of £676,548 (2023". £254,866) and income from charitable activities of £4,234,012 (2023: £3,987,287). Charitable Activities The financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to chartties preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015). The breakdown of expenditure on charitable activities is arrived at by analysing the cost of objectives delivered in accordance with the organisation's annual and strategic plans. Expenditure continues to be subject to tight budgetary disciplines across the organisation and focuses on the priorities of the annual business plan. Total resources expended for the year ended 31 March 2024 were £5,354,024 (2023: £4,763,314). This includes expenditure on raising funds of £591,147 (2023.. £525,499) and expenditure on charitable activities of £4,762,877 (2023: £4,237,815). Ourtotal net incomings forthe period, before other recognised gains and losses, was £284,685 (2023: Incoming £164,669). After gains from investment assets. the incoming resource was £331,193 (2023: Incoming £126,528). The balances on restricted funds and unrestricted funds at the year*nd were £554,325 (2023: £574,645) and £2,877,015 (2023: £2,525,498) respectively. Investments Under our Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Trustees have the powers to invest in a way that further the charities objectives. Our portfolio of shareholdings, held as a long-term core investment and managed by Evelyn Partners had an increase in valuation at 31 March 2024 of £752,400 from £705,891 at 31 March 2023. The unrealised capital gain in the investment portfolio for the year ended 31 March 2024 was £46,508 (2023.. loss of £38.142). Investment Perfomiance The core objectives for Age Nl investment portfolio is for these funds to achieve a balance between income generation and longer term growth, taking minimal risk. At the year-end 31 March 2024, the Charity held cash reserves of £2,095.693 (2023.. £2,169,569). The investment portfolio as at 31 March 2024 was £752,400 (2023: 705,891). 55 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Reserves Policy The Trustees aspiration is to continue to build a general level of reserves (excluding tangible fixed assets) that has six months of unrestricted expenditure in reserve so that they will be able to continue the current activities of the charity. For 2023124 these general reserves amounted to £2,552,853 (2023: £2,452,035). Excluding tangible fixed assets these general reserves amounted to £2,581,070. This represents 132 % of the six month target based on 2023124 annual pro-rata expenditure. Funds held within designated funds are £324,160 (2023: £73,462). This balance of thesefunds are held to fund accruing redundancy projects costs from restricted fvnd projects and to help sustain and support future dementia services in our residential home. Principal Funding Sources The principal fvnding sources of Age Nl include- Trust Income that helps fund: Care.. Domiciliary Care Services. Day Care serVi￿S. Residential Care Services. Project Income that helps funds one off projects. Fundraising Income from Corporate and Individual Donors. Fundraising income from events. Legacy Income. Age UK funding. Gift Aid Income. Core Grant Funding. Trustees. responsibilities in relation to the financial statements The Trustees, who are also Directors for the purposes of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees. report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the charty Trustees to prepare financial statements for each yearwhich give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements. the Trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP. make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent: AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; prepare the financial statements on the going concem basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial inforrnation included on the charitable company's website. Legislation in the Untted Kingdom. Governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differfrom legislation in other jurisdictions. Statement as to disclosure to our auditors Each of the persons who is a Trustee at the date of approval of this report confirms that: so far as they are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charty's auditor is unaware., and they have taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a Trustee to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the charity's auditor is aware of that information. Small company provisions This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitjed to the small companies exemption. The Trustees, annual report was approved on 25 September 2024 and signed on behalf of the board of Trustees by,. Dr Raymond Mullan OBE Trustee 57 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Independent Auditor's Report To the Trustees of Age Nl Opinion We have audtted the financial statements of Age Nl (the 'charitable company,) for the year ended 31 St March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account, the balance sheet, statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Stsndards, including FRS 102 °The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion.. The financial statements give a true and fair view ofthe state of the charitable Company's affairs as at 3151 March 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended; The financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice-, Proper accounting records have been kept by the charity throughout the period., Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Intemational Standards on Audff(ing (UK) {ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audtt evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Conclusions relating to going concem In audf(ing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on the work we have perfomed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast signfficant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concem for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concem are described in the relevant sections of this report. Other information The Trustees are responsible for the other infomation. The other infonnation comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditorfs report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other infomiation and, except to the extent othe￿iSe explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any fonm of assuran￿ conclusion the￿On. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibilty is to read the other information and, in doing so, Consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misststed. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to detemiine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other infomiation. If, based on the work we have performed, we Conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 We have nothing to report in this regard. Independent Auditorfs Report To the Trustees of Age Nl (cont) Matters on which we a￿ required to report by exception We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where legislation requires us to report to you rf, in our opinion: the information given in the Trustees, Annual Report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements,. or sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns" or we have not re￿iVed all the infomation and explanations we require for our audit. Responsibilities of trustees As explained more fully in the Trustees, Responsibiltties Statement, the Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they gtve a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concem basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to Cease operations, or have no realistic altemative but to do so. Auditorfs responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditorfs report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assuran￿ is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to infiuence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below. Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud The objectives of our audit in respect of fraud, are,. to identfy and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements due to fraud., to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud, through designing and implementing appropriate responses to those assessed risks,- and to respond appropriately to instances of fraud or suspected fraud identified during the audit. However, the primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both management and those charged with governance of the charitable company. Our approach was as follows: We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements applicable to the charitable company and considered that the most significant to be the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing 59 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 their a¢¢ounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). Independent Auditorfs Report To the Trustees of Age Nl (cont) We obtained an understanding of how the charitable company complies with these requirements by discussions with management and those charged with govemance. We assessed the risk of material misstatement of the financial ststements. including the risk of material misstatement due to fraud and how it might occur, by holding discussions with management and those charged with governance. We inquired of management and those charged with governance as to any known instan￿$ of nOn￿Compliance or suspected non-compliance with laws and regulations. Based on this understanding, we designed specific appropriate audi( procedures to identify instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. This included making enquiries of management and those charged with governan￿ and obtaining additional corroborative evidence as required. As part of an audit in accordance with ISAS (UK) we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. Audit procedures perfomied by the engagement team included- > We obtained an understanding of the charitable company's internal control systems in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purposes of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness ofthe charitable company's intemal control. > We obtsined an understanding of how the charitable company complies with relevant laws and regulations by making enquiries of management and those charged with govemance. > Enquiry of management, those charged with govemance and the entty's solicitors around actual and potential litigation and claims. > Enquiry of entity staff to identfy any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. > Performing analytical procedu￿$ to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud. > Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged wtth governan￿. Reviewing financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess Complian￿ with applicable laws and regulations. > Auditing the risk of management override of controls, including through testing joumal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, and evaluating the rationale of signrficant transactions that are unusual or outside the nomial Course of business. We communicated relevant laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and remained alert to any indications of fraud or nonpcompliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit. There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed non- compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may 60 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 involve deliberate concealment through collusion, forgery, intentional omissions. misrepresentstions or the override of internal control. Independent Auditorfs Report To the Trustees of Age Nl (cont) A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: http'.IthM.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilties. This description forms part of our auditorfs report. We communicate with those charged with governance regarding. among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant findings, including any signiFicant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. Use of our report This report is made solely to the charitable company's Trustees, as a body. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's Trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditorfs report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent pemiitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and its Trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report. or for the opinions we have fomied. g eLAL- Dr R I Peters Gallagher OBE FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor) Date ef For and on behalf of Moore (Nl) LLP 4th Floor- Donegall House 7 Donegall Square North Belfast Northern Ireland BT15GB Moore (Nl) LLP is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 65 of the Charities Act (Nl) 2008 61 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Statement of Financial Activities (incorporating the income and expenditure account) Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Total Funds Funds 2024 Funds 2024 2024 2023 Income and endowments frorn Donations and legacies 676.548 676.548 254,866 Charitable activrties 2.790,838 1,443,174 4.234.012 3.987.287 Other trading activities 642,674 642,674 638,991 Investment income 85.476 85,476 46,839 Total incorne and endowrnents 4,195.536 1,443,174 5,638,710 4,927,983 Expenditure Expenditure on raising ￿nd$-. Costs of other trading activities Expenditure on charitable activities (591,147) (3,299,380) (591,147} {4.762,8771 (525,499} 14,237,815) {1,463,497} Total expenditure 13.890.527) (1,463,497) (5.354.024) {4.763,314) Net1105ses}Igains on invesknent 46.508 46.508 {38.142) Net {expenditure)fincome and net movement in funds 351,517 120,322) 331,193 126,527 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 2,525,498 574,647 3,100,143 2,973.616 Totsl fvnds carried forward 2.877.015 554,325 3,431,370 3,100.143 The Statement of Financial Activities indudes all gains and losses recognised in the year. l income and expenditure derive from continuing activits"es. The Statement of Financial Activities (incorporating the income and expenditure ac￿unts} for the prior year ended 31 March 2023 is included in note 22 to the accounts. The notes on pages 65 to 76 foTh part of these financial statements 62 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Statement of Financial Position 2024 2023 Fixed assets Tangible fixed assets Investments 13 14 616,276 752AOO 110,685 705,892 1,368,676 816,557 Current assets Debtors Investments Cash at bank and in hand 15 16 456,315 570,720 2,095,693 2,169,569 2,552,009 2.740.292 CreditoryJ: amounts falling due within one year 17 {489.3451 (456,726) Net current assets 2.062,664 2,283,566 Total assets less current {liabilitiesyassets 3,431,340 3,100,123 Net assets 3,431,340 3,100,123 Funds Restricted fvnds Unrestricted income fiJnds 21 21 554,325 2,877,015 574,645 2,525,498 Totsl funds 3,431,340 3,100,143 These financtal statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, regime. These financial ststements were approved by the board oftrustees and authorised for issue on 25 September 2024, and are signed on their behalf by: Dr Raymond Mullan Trustee The notes on pages 65 to 76 fomi part ofthese financial statements 63 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Statement of Cash Flows 2024 2023 Cashfiows from operating activities Net lexpenditure}lincome Cash generated from operations 331,193 126,527 Adjustments for Depreciation of tsngible ffxed assets Net {losses)Igains on investments Other interest receivable and similar income Changes in.- Stocks Trade and other debtors Trade and other ¢￿dItorS 38,883 (46.508) 185,476) 39,425 38,142 {46,8391 114,406 32.619 (249,347) 1368,7301 Cash generated from operations 385,118 1460,8221 Interest received 85,476 46,839 Net cash used in operating activities 470,594 {413,983) Cash flow￿ from investing activities Purchase of tangible assets Purchase of other investments Proceeds from sale of other investrnents (554.470) (40.6691 1,539 Net cash used in investing activities ($44,470) {39,130) Inc￿8$¢I{de¢rease> in cash and cash equivalents in the year (73,876} {453,113) Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 2,169,569 2,622,682 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 2,095,693 2,169,569 The notes on pages 65 to 76 fom part ofthese financial statements 64 AGE NI Company Limited by Guarantee Report and Financial Statements Year ended 31 March 2024 Accounting Policies Basis of Accounting The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard which applies in the UK {FRS1021 {effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP {FRS 10211, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK {FRS1021 and the Companies Act 2006. Going concern The financial statements have been prepared on a going concem basis which assumes that the charity will continue in operational existence for the foreseeable fvture. The Trustees continually monitor perfomance, liquidty cash fiow and fijture development. As a result the Trustees believe that the charity is well platsd to manage business risk and remain a going COn￿rn. Fund accounting Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees to ftjrther any of the charity's purposes. Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for parbcular future project or ¢ommitrnent. Restricted funds are subjected to restrtctions on their expenditure declared by the donor or through the teffns of an appeal, and fall into one of￿0 sub