## **Chairman’s Annual Report** 

## **Welcome to our AGM.** 

**As your Chairman, I am happy to be able to report  Age Concern is operating successfully.  Membership is continuing to grow. We are nearly back at preCovid level, with current membership standing at 221 members.** 

**Age Concern Network is financially sound. We depend on funding which as you all know is harder to secure  each year, with many charities competing for the same grants. We are fortunate to have a sum of money in the bank to help deliver Age Concern services.** 

**We have increased our subsidy to support members and help fund and reduce the costs of trips, courses and events.** 

**Last year a decision was made to reduce costs by operating an open-door facility three days per week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, through which members can access all activities throughout the year. Valerie McKibben, Administration Manager, works from home on Mondays and Fridays.  Members can still avail of advice and assistance with everyday problems and issues via telephone or email on these days. The system is working effectively. Operating costs have been reduced by implementing this system.** 

**Administration Manager, Valerie McKibben, efficiently complies with all the Charity Commission’s requirements.** 

**Tight controls on income and expenditure are maintained. Members’ queries are effectively dealt with by Valerie.** 

**Membership fees will remain at the current level for 2025 - £8.00 single member and £12.00 per couple. Membership is renewable in January 2025.** 

**The Safe & Well, Fitter Feet and Laundry activities continue to provide an essential service to the local aged community. Fitter Feet is in high demand. We have requested extra services from Fitter Feet, unfortunately they are unable to meet our request.** 



**The Monday Club and the range of classes, outings and holidays offered are aimed at bringing members together to overcome loneliness and isolation.** 

**My thanks to our staff, tutors, volunteers and the team of helpers.** 

**We would also like to thank all local businesses, shopkeepers and anyone who has supported Age Concern. A special vote of thanks to Executive Committee members who spend time and effort keeping Age Concern Network running effectively and efficiently.** 

**Thank-you to the members who have attended and supported today’s AGM. On behalf of the Executive Committee, I would like to thank Nicole Toner, KPS Accountants, for coming here today to present the accounts in such a professional manner as required by the Charity Commission.** 

**That concludes my Chairman’s report.** 

**Chairman & Treasurer - Mr Reg Bell**