Charlty rÈgIstraOn numbor Charity No. NIC105291 (Northorn Ireland) COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION TNstea8 N Rlchardson L Patlarson P O'Neill A Kerrigan C O'N8iII B Craig Chartty numb8r NIC105291 Prlnclpal address Unit 6 North City Business Centre 2 Duncairn Gardens B6lfast BT15 2GG Auditor Amanda H8rbinson Corrigan CA Limltgd 24 Greystone Road Antrim N Ireland BT412QN
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS CONTENTS Page Trustees report Statement of trustee8 respon$iblliti&s 16 Ind&pendent auditor's report 17-1S Stat8mgnt of financial aclivities 20 Balance sh881 21 Notes to the financial statements 22-31
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Truslees, report for the year endod 31Jtmah 2025 The trustees of CRIS are pleasgd to present their annual raport and the financial 8tatements for the period 1 st April 2024_ 31st March 2025. Rèferance and Administrative Dotslls Charlty Name: Community R8lations In Schools Charity Numbgr: NIC105291 The charity is an unincorporated association as per the Constitution. Prlncipal Office: Unit 6, North City Business Cantr&, 2 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GG Reglslered Offlce: Unit 6, North City Business Centre, 2 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GG Audltor: Corrigan CA Limited 24 Greystone Road Antrim BT412QN Bankers: Ulster Bank Ltd. Unit 1 Westwood Centre, Kennedy Way, Belfast, BT119BQ CRIS Trustees as of 3181 March 2025: Norman Richardson (Chair) Patricia O'Neill (Vlce Chair) Lawrence Patterson (Treasurer) Conor O'Neill (Secretary) Aithne Kerrigan Ben Craig Objectives and actlvlties Charitable Objects The purpose of CRIS Is to actively contributg to tho building of a shared, inclusive and reoonciled society in Northern Ireland by developing and delivering peaca-building programmes that promote diversity and incluslon within and betweon schools and their local Gommunltles. CRIS also works in partnership with govemment depariments. educational authorities, higher educational institutions, statutory agencies. funding bodies and communily organisations to achi8ve positive and lasting impacts at an individual, family, school. community and system levels. Through collaboration, CRIS promotes reconciliation, equ8llty snd divarsily by buildlng mèaningful relationships 8nd trust across all sections of. society,
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Publlc Benoflt Statement Tha Trustees of CRIS confirm complianc8 with their duties under the Charitie8 Act (Northern Irgland) 2008 (as amended) and have had due regard lo thè Charity Commlssion's guidanc8 on public benefit. The public benefit requirement has contlnued to guide all organis8tional activitsès during thls reporting period. CRIS'S work ha5 delivered multi-levol, measurabla impact throughout the year. Across its programmes, Iralning and partnership initiatives, CRIS éngaged with 53 school communities, most located in areas of high socio- economic deprivation where the legacy of conflict rèm8ins most avldent. The organisation intontlonally prioritises th8sa communitie8, focusing resourc8s wher8 peacebuilding and reconciliation can mak8 the greatest difference. Durlng the year, CRIS dlrectly @ngaged 1,695 participants including pupils, parentslcarers, feachets, classroom assistants. piinclpals and Board of Govemor metnbers. many of whom were involved in multlple s8ssions across programmes. Indirectly. many more individuals benefited through CRIS'S wider efforts to promote diversify, inclusion and p8acebuilding across schools. This included classroom assistanls, trainee teachers. schoDI communities and families whc were positively affected through the improved school environments and practices supported by our programm8S. The charity also g8n6rates system level benefit, contributing practice-based learning that infonns emerging policy and strategy in education and good relations. During Good Relations Week Sept8mb8r 2024, CRIS launched its short film Small St8ady Steps. demonstrating the impact of ils Buddy Up.1 modol in Urban Willages. The film and 8valu8tion hav8 provided policymakers and educators With tangible examples of effective peacebuilding practic8 now Influencing reglonal initiativ8s. In partnership with Coventy University and ihe Moving Forward Together (M) network, CRIS advance ressarch on the CRISICoventry Trust Indicator Framework (TIF), exploring how Injst between schools supports collaboration, enhances teaching and leaming and contrtbutes to r8tx)nciliation. Funded through a Community Relations Council INICRC) small grant and co-invested by th8 Education Authority (EA) (£5,000), Ihis project has generated signlflcant interest from stakeholders seeking deeper insSght into trust-building aGross schools and ¢omrnunities. CRIS continues lo make a reglonal contrlbution to systems change, working with the EA to str8ngthen and extend shared education across Northem Ireland. Its expertise In building ¢ollaboration and incluslon positions CRIS as a key partner in advanclng rewnclliation through education. The organisatlon also creates wider publlc benefit by amplifying stories of hope and progress that counter Gonflict-focused narrallves. Through films, digital storytelling and publications, CRIS showcasos the volces of participants and schools, highlighting tho Intergeneralional nature of peacebuilding and the transferability of its model intèrnationally. Throughout Ihe year, CRIS expanded its communications and OLrtreach, producing multiple short films including 8 40-year celebration t8Stimonial video and the documenlory Small Steady Stgps, and cKJntributing regularly to NICRC'S monthly e-magazine. The 401h Anniversary Gala further strengthened CRIS'S public profile and reinforced ils message of shared, raconciled communlty aspirations.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Summary of the Maln Actlvltles The Gor8 activities of CRIS sra: Deliverlng tralnlng. oonsultancy and support across all school sectors to strengthen CAp8cIty In good relations and ¢ollaborativ8 8ducation. Providin9 school basad, Intar-community pupil programmes Ihat promote diverslty, inclusion and peacebuilding in age-approprtata and constructive ways. Creating opportunilies for parènts and carers to engage in peacebuilding through schools and community networks. Advocating for the role of education as a foundation for intergeneralional peacebuilding and a shared future. Disseminating good practice and research through events, publications and contributlons to highér education and statutory bodies. Devaloping evaluation systems linked to the Good Relations and Collaborative Educ8tion (GRACE) model lo evidence impact. Strangthening organi881ion81 sustainability and governance, embedding Gontinuous improvement across all areas of operation. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE The Year in Numbers oth Year 53 1182 109 82,483 272.598 Supportlng School-based eacebuilding Schools Pupils Parentsl carers Teachers1 principals Unrestrlcted otal Incomo Reserves The CRIS Strategic Plan (2021-20251. which guided delivery across the organisation's three core alms, was extended by the Board of Directors for a further two years to March 2027. Thls docision reflected both the disruption and loss of operational time caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the conlinuing relevancg of tho stralegy's aims and objectives. The extension ensures CRIS can fully consolidate and build upon progres5 in its three strategic areas: Cataly8ing Peace and Re¢onGilTatlon 2. Equipplng and Inspiring the Educatlon Sector 3. Sustaining and Growing CRIS to achieve its mlsslon Allgned Key Performance Indlcators IKPIs1 and gov&rnance targets contlnue lo guide programme delivery and organisational development under each of these aims. Summary of Achievements- Key P8rfomiance Indicators: KPI 1: Total Childrenlyoung People Engaged- 1182 KPI 2: Total Parentslcarers Eng8ged- 1 D9 KPI 3: Total TeacherslPrinclpals Engaged- 404 KPI 4: Total Schools Engaged - 53 KPI 5" Total Naw School Partnerships ITwinn8d schools) Developed - 2 KPI 6: Total Locallty Partnerships- 3 {inGludes 52 schools) KPI 7. Tot81 Income- £272,598
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Programme Overvlew: This strategy commits to investing its fvnded resources across s8van localitios in Northem Ireland: ANBC Councll Area.. NEST {Newtown8bbey Empowering Schools Tog&ther) 21 schools located in N8wtownabbey & Gl8ngorml8y involved in educational collaboration coordinated by CRIS. Mrf (Moving Forward Together) 21 schools located in Antrim and Randalstown. CRIS having now stepped out of a coordinatlng role and is a member of thè St8erlng Commlttee. Belfast Clty.. CRIS runs a strategic peacebullding programme focused on the Crumlin Road interface called Ev&ryd8y Peacebuilding in Ardoyn8 and Shanknll. The Everyday P88Gebuildlng programme is anchored to two Nursery Schools where Buddy Upl had its genesis and is now engaged In eight feeder primary schools in the locality. Urban Vlllages lo¢alllles. CRIS has continued to support Urban Village localities in thelr building sustainable good relations particularly linked to Shared education initiativès. These flve localitles include: Ardoyn8 and Greater Ballysi118n" Colinlwest Belfast, Eastsidel E8St Belfast. Sandy Row, Doneg811 P8ss and the Markets areas/ South Belfast. and The Bogside, Fountsin and Bishop Street- DerrylLondonderry. Programme Innovations and Strategic Developments: Expanded Teacher Training: SLtpporting student teacher development continues to be a key feature of CRIS'S annual programme delivery. with ongoing requests for partnership from Stranmillis Universty Colleg8. In 2024- 25, CRIS led five sessions wlthin the LeadehIp for Diversity and Mutual Und8r8t8nding module, which promot8s best pract1 among educators in laadership for diversity, equality. inclusion and intercuEtural competence. In June 2024, both Stranmillis and St Mary's University Colleges invited CRIS to redavalop and dellver their joint inter-college prograrnme, Pmfesslonal Leamlng in a Changing SoGiety (PLICS). Tho new designed programme ran successfully botween October and November 2024 for B.Ed Year 1 and Year 2 cohorts, engaglng a total of 267 studenl tèachers. The programme received highly posttive feedback for ils practical approach to embeddlng inclusive leadership principles in teacher education. CRIS looks forward to further developing its strategic partnership with Stranmillis and St Mary's University Colleges to advance shared goals in teacher education, diversity and Inclusion. N8w Curriculum Development: In early 2025, CRIS d9ve10d a much anticipated Foundation Stag8 curriculum titled "You've Got a Fri6nd in Mg" creating a new entry-level programrne for Buddy Up.1 aimed at Frimary 1 pupils. This curricLtlum inlroduces early friendship building and empathy skills, forming the foundation fcr subsequent CRIS primary programmes. Alongside thls, work began on the red@valopment of the CelehTrting Divarslty programme. maintainlng its core themes of friendship, identlty, dtversity and inclusion, while enhancing usability and consistency. Th8 updated version will feature consolidated lesson plans. clear d&finitions and a user-friendly teacher guide ensuring that any educator or facilitator can confidently delivar the programme. thereby building capacity across the wider education system. Preparlng to Expand Service Dolivery: CRIS continues to receive regular requosls from schools to deliver 8peci8list training on good relations themes. Vvhere feasib18 Within funded capacity, these opportunities are embraced to extend the organisation's reach and impact. Durtng 2024-25, CRIS delivered identity, flags and symbols training to the entire Year 8 stud@nt body at Glengomiley Integrated College and began plannlng for the annual Year 8 Flags and Symbo15 programme at Dungannon Integrated College (scheduled forApril 20251. CRIS was again invited by Antrtm and Newtownabbey Borough Council lo contrlbut& to its Duke of Edinburgh youth programme and to deliver workshops in Ihe Bee Safe Programme (May 2025), whlch engages all primary schools in the ANBC locality.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 CRIS established o new partnership with Sandy Row and St James's Football Clubs. supporting clublgaders to bulld good relatlons capacity and provide positlV8 Opportunities for young people Ilvlng near interftd¢e areas who may be al risk of be¢omlng involved in antisocial b8haviour or unrest. CRIS prepared and submitted a SUSSfUl T.'BUC Summer Camps funding application on behalf of the clubs, securing support for a pilot project with 40 young people to begin in summer 2025. To meet increasing demand, CRIS also began building a team of trained Associ8tas through the Next Generatlon Pgacebuild6rs initiative. This expanded team will play an integral role in supporting tha rollout of thè forthcoming ASPIRE Shared Education Programme. Engaging the Busin8ss Comrnunlty: CRIS completed its first successful year of structured engagement with the business community, introducing the organisation's mission and explorFng opportunities for collaboration through social value partnerships and fundraislng Initiatives. A series of engagement meetings were held throughout the year, g8n8raling positive interest in 8llgnlng corporate social responsibility goals with CRIS'S peacebuilding and education programm@s. During th8 year, CRIS also a¢ce55ed specialist tralnlng to &nhanc8 its capacity to act as a broker for soclal value prOJrernent In public sector controcts, Positioning the organlsation for future pathershlp and suslainabilily opportunities. These efforts were strengthgned through fundraising adivilies linked to the CRIS 40th Anniversary Gala Celebration (March 2025) and raised awar6ness of CRIS'S long-t6rm impact and helped build a growing network of corporate 8UPPOrt8rs. The gala event raised approximately £8,000 through raffle proceeds. donations and the charity auction. We are gr8t8ful for the generoslty shown, whlch reflacts th& strong commitm@nt to CRIS'S mission and continued impaGt. CRIS 40thAnniversary Gala at Tltanic Belfast {Mar 2025) The Trustees wish to record their sincere apprèciation to the many local businesses that supported CRIS through donalions of prizes for the raffle and auction and through In-house fvndraising initiatives. CRIS also received generous donations Including £225 from Wlndow tts the Womb and £620 from Exsto Gym, raised through a community spin-class fundraiser. CRIS was also grateful to Lancia Consult (B8lfast} for being our key sponsor for the Gala. Each of these contributors was formally acknowledged at the Gala event and highlighte¢i through CRIS'S communications channels. Dellvory and Impact of Funded Programmes" Everyday Peacebulldlng Programme (North Belfast): The Evaryday P8ac9building Programme is one of CRIS'S long-term strategic inlliativas. designed to strengthen good relations and social coheslon wllhin families and communities in North Belfast, The programme builds on a network of eight schools located along the Crumlin Road interfac8, linked through the Buddy Upl framework and parinerships wilh Edend8rry Nursery School and Holy Cross Nursery School.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Participating schools include Edenbrooke and M8rcy Primary Schools, Holy Cross Boys, and Glenwood Primary Schools, and Wheatfield 8nd Holy Cross Girls, Primary Schools. Planning is underway to expand the neiwork in 2025-26 10 includ8 Ligoniel Prlmary School and St Vincant de Paul Primary School. with preparatory engagèment completed during this reporting p6riod. Th& annual work plan focused on thrèe key areas.. school &ngagement, parent81 engagement and community engagement. Prlmary School Engagement: CRIS work8d closely wlth principals, teachers, and parentslcarers to consolidate participatlon across the school network.. Conduded listening exercises and planning meetings with school partners. Hosted s Principal's Breakfast and planning event (Aug 2024). Delivered Good Relations Currlculum training for 18 tsachèr$ 8cro$s two days (Sep 2024 and Feb 2025). Facilitated curriculum and planning meetlnos. a Governor and Community Infomiation Evening (Feb 2D25} to strengthen board and local support and parental engagement sessions wtth Ligoniel and St Vincent de Paul Primary Schools (Mar 2025) in preparation for their inclusion in tha programme. Contribulgd to Good Relations Week and participatsd in meetings with Shared Education Coordinators to support partnership dev8lopment and ensure alignment with EA priorÈti8S. Pupil Programmes: CRIS coordinaled Buddy Upl activities for Year 3 and Year 7 pupils acros8 Bix schools, wlth pilot planning for the new P1 You'v8 Got a Friand in Me. programme. CRIS d&livèrèd three Celebraling Diversity programmes (12 hours each} Involving 150 pupils and 30 parants, including inter-sthool visits - with 8fA of pupils reporting: "I had fun leaming how childrèn were different and how they were simi18r.° CRIS delivered three Knowing Me l(nowing You programmes116 hours each) involvlng 150 pupils - wlth 78% stating: "I h8d a chanc8 fo think and talk about different groups of paople who Ilve in Northern Ireland - their culture, rgligion. and syml)ols." Parental Engagement: Followlng the redeployment of Damon Henry as programme lead In April 2024, CRIS conduct8d a review and consuliation with staff and parants from long standing Buddy Up p8rtners Holy Cross and Edendery Nursery Schools. Surv8y$ confirmed the high value placed on par&ntal involvement.. 780A of parents wished to parllcipate in future events, and 100DA of teachers agreed that parental engagem8nt enhand the Buddy Upl experience. Participants emphasised thal - 'tts an amazing opportunily for people to come together who might not normally have this chance.., mahng our SoetY a betterplace lo livg.. "Th? pn)gr8mme h8S 8 pO&t1 impaot on everyone involved- Childft. par&nts, and staff alike." The 2025 programme was shaped by this feedback, Introducing practi(xl and dialogue-based activitles that engaged 48 parents and renewed enthusiasm among nursery staff. Key highlights included school staff dov8lopment day,, parental engagement r8-18unch and 8 blond of facilitated workshops and creative joint art project and celebration event. Parents at W5 workshop with CRIS (Jan 2025)
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Communlty Collaboration and Stak8holdor Engagement. CRIS Contlnued to strengthen Its Partnerships with local organisations across Ardoyn8 and Shankill, ensuring clos8r alignment between educational inltlatlves and community-led good relations efforts. Durfng the year. CRIS engaged with a broad network of community, voluntary and statutory partners including representstives from sport, houslng, women's and youth sectors to promote collaboratlon and shared learning in support of inclusive education. The organisation also contributed to regional networks such as RAISE (Ralslng Attalnment in Educatlon), tha North Bolfast Partnership and the NICRC'S Shared Learning Forum, maintaining an active role in advancing good relations and community Coheslon across North Belfast. Growlng GRACE Pro£ramme: Newtownabbey and Antrlm & Randalstown NEST {Nevrtownabbey Empowering Schools Tog8th6r): The NEST pathershlp, now comprlslng 21 schools, continues to grow as a model of educational collaboration in the Newtown8bbey and Glengormley area. CFiIS provides strategic facilitstion. relationship-building support for prinGipals and senlorlgaders and coordlnalion of joint learning and development activities. Shared Education Development: CRIS supported the creation and strengthening of new shared education partnershlps, Including St MacNissi'8 and Abbot's Cross Primary Schools and between St Mary's on th& Hill and Carnmoney Prlmary Schools. These partnershlps hav8 enhanced cross-communty engagement and built confidenc8 among schools newly embarking on shared education. Pupil Programmes: CRIS delivered targeted Budty Up. programmes to support these new partnershlps, including.. Three 12-hour Celebrating Divorslty programm8s with P3 pupils 8nd parents, and One Knowlng Mo Knowing You progr8mm8 wilh P7 pupils. Feadback from childron reflected increased empathy and understanding of dlffarenca. One pupil shared, learned about div&tsty and made a diver8i-tre8. Div8rsty means we re 811 differsnt," whlle another sald, "Maklng nBw friends and buildlng 8 stronger community between both sCA(lS was my f8VOUrit8 part." Partnershlp Development and Capaclty Building: CRIS facilitated one-lowone listening exercises with school 18ad8rs across the network lo inform partnership planning and hosta¢ thr88 NEST pathership meetings during the year. att8nd8d by school 18ad8rs. Collaboratlve initiatives included two local football toumaments, involving over 160 puplls and 25 staff, fosterlng frlendship through sporL To strengthen govern8nce and coordination, CRIS established a NEST Advisory Group représenting all schDoI sectors and launchod an online Microsoft Teams plafform to share resourGes and sustsin communication across schools. A Shared Leaming NeOrk workshop for Spacial Educational Needs Coordinators ISENCOs} brought tog8th8r 20 participants frotn 18 schools to exchange good practlce and explore good relalions themes. New branding and visibility matarials were also developed to strengthen NEST'S public identity. Training and Councll Collaboration: CRIS delivered Idèntity and diversity workshops to over 300 Year 8 pupils at Inlegrated College Glengomiley, supporting pupils, transition to post-primary education in a diverse environment. CRIS also continued collaboration with Antrirn and Newtownabbey Borough Council, preparing to deliv8r good relations workshop5 for approximately 1,600 puplls as part ofth8 Be8 Safe Programm8 (May 2025).
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Moving Forward Together (MFf) Parlnership (Antrlm & Randalstownl: CRIS continued to support the MFT partnership, acting as community partn8r and advlsor to the coordination team and Chair. A key development this year was the launch of a joint research project with Coventry Univ&rslly, explorlng how the CRISICoventry Trust Indicators operate in practice, spectfically how increased trust between schools strangthens collaboration, enh8nces teaching and learning and mntributes lo reconciliation oulcomes. The research project was supported through a NICRC small granl, with additional Investment of £5,000 from the EA reftecting the high18vel of intgrest in ils potentl81 to inform good relations and shared education policy. The final report and racommendalions wlll be completed and launched in the next financi81 year and CRIS anlicipates signrflcant interest across governm8nt departmenls in the findings and their wider applicability. This research reinforces CRIS'S strategic aim of eatslysing peace and reconciliation through educatlon, demonstrating how measurable trust and collaboratlon betr4een schools can deliver meaningful social change and improved educational outcomes. 3. Final Evaluatlon & Wrap Up: Buddy Up! In Urban Vlllages The Executive Offic8 (TEO) Urban Willages-funded Budty Upl programme forfflally concluded in March 2024. marking the completlon of a fiv8-y8ar inv8slment12019-20241 in peacebuilding and educalion. To consolidate and lebrate its achi8vemgnls. CRIS commissioned an indep8ndent evaluation by youth consultant D8bs Erwin and hosled 8 celebratlon evenl al Belfast City Hall in September 2024. attended by ovar 100 repre*nlats'ves from schDols, funders, comrnunity organisations, parents, and government departments, including the Deputy Lord Mayor of BelfasL The evaluation, film and celebration event were funéed by Ihe TEO, with Belfast City Hall kindly sponsoring the venue in recognition of the programme's contribution to Community cohesion ané education. As part of Ihls legacy work, CRIS prodUd a 20-minute documentary fllm tttled 'Small Steady Steps,, which provided a powerful platFomi for dozens of contributions from children, parents and school st8ff. The film captures, In their Dwn words, the transformative impact of Buddy Up, illustrating how sm811, Consistent acts of friendship and understanding have help6d to change attitudes, build lationshipS and strengthen reconciliation across ommunities. Across thg five-year period, the evaluation recorded significant reach and impact. 3,124 childrgn participaled, devaloping cross-community friendships. 424 parents engaged through interganerational workshops promoting unéerslanding and inclusion. 252 8ducator8 benafited from professional learning and school-community collaboratlDn. Seven new educational partnershlps were established, creatlng pathways into Shared Education programmes.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Outcomes and Impact: The programme achleved consist8ntly strong results 8cross Outcomes-Based Accountsbllity (OBA) measures.. 100% of sGhools reported that Buddy Upl supported cross-community engagement and provided valuabla shar8d16aming experience. 890/0 noted improved attitudes toward cultural diverslty. 1 OOYO of staff reported enhanced capacity and professlonal d8v6lopment in good relations work. 91 /0 of SGhool leadars said Buddy Upl strengthened good relations within partnerships and 85% noted wider communty Impact. Qualltative Flndings: Th8 evaluation al80 hiohlighted the programme's deep personal and r8lational Impact. Childr8n described Buddy Upf as Yun and enjoyable., particularly valuing tha team-bullding activities that helped them meat and understand p88rs from different background5. Many demonstrated new awareness of cultural diversity and improved ¢ommunlcallon skllls. Some noted initi81 h8Sitancy in meeling children from other schools, sugg8Sting that longer engagement could further build confiden¢e and conn8ctiDn - a useful insight for future programme design. Educators praised Buddy Upl for creatlng safe, meaningful opportunitl8s for crosswcommuntiy encounter, helping to "normalis8" interaction and diff8r8nce. Teachers highlighted that the programme: Built confidence and Compeften In discussing identity and dlv8rsity- Catalysed seven sustainable school partnerships that continu8d b8yond programme funding. Contributed directly to t8achers' professional learning and strengthened Good Relations pedagogy. Many dgscribe.d Buddy Upl as 8 valuable complement and often a precursor to Shared Education, noting its stronger good relations focus, flexibility and high engagement among pupils. Overall, the evaluation confirmed Bucldy Upl as an exemplary .modal for 8mbgdding good re18tions, 6trengthening inler-5chool Collaboration and supporting reconciliation outcomes across Belfast's Urban Villages. Its legacy Continues lo shape CRIS'S ongoing work in shared educ8tion, community relations and peacebuilding practice. BUILDING ORGANISATIONAL RESILIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY Govern8nce and suslainabillly remain central lo CRIS'S stratagic dev8lopment. The organisation continue5 to Invast in strong governance controls, risk management and su¢¢esglon planning, ensurlng it is W811 positioned to face future challenges with confid@nce and stability- The Board has also maintained a programme of ongoing policy reviews to ensure all operalional. financial, and safeguardlng frameworks remain compliant and reflect besl practice. During the year, the Board conducted a comprehensive review of staff ramunaration: terms, and conditions, introdLtcing a 35-hour working week and a new salary structure to maintsin competitiveness within the seclor. This stnJGture will be reviewed annually lo ansur6 CRIS continues to atlract, develop and retain high-calibr8 Staff as it transilions towards a more drversified InMe mod81. CRIS also advanced its communications and organisational identily, launching a refreshed brand and logo alongside its Theory of Change, reflecting both ils heritage and future direction. This marks the beginning of a broader overhaul of CRIS's.communications profile, includlng a full review of the Communications and soclal rnedia policy, enhancements to the organisation's online prasenca and strengthened intemal systems such as the complaints procedure. A new Funding Strategy, reviewed quarterly, now provldes greater clarlty around income sourcgs, targets, and projections. Proparations are underway to expand consultancy and training servi¢8S, SUPPOrt8d by rèvis8d pricing slwclures and markeling mat8rials aimed at schools engaged in shared educalion who can accèss funding to commission CRIS'S expertise, This rapresents a significant growlh area expected to generate substant181 income in future years. Reflecting the success of the 40th Anniversary Gala, the Board has also committed to hosting at least one community fundraising 8V8nt annually. reinforcing CRIS'S connection with supporters and enhancing long-term sustainability.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Flnancial Review Summary of Fundlng Secured to Support Operations: CRIS was fortunate to secure all necessary funds to deliver its workplan ambitlons during the reportlng period, ensuring the ¢ontinued delivery of high quality P8acebulldlng and educatlon programmes across Northam Ireland. A list of fundin9 partners and their respective awards is provided in the financlals soction of this report. Thls year represented a significant transition pariod for CRIS. It was the first year without core funding investment from TEOIUrban Villages Ihat funding stream's inception as thè Buddy Up Urban Village initiattve reached ils natural conclusion after five years. However, The Execulive Office {TEO} provided a grant of £5,960 to support the production of CRIS'S short film Small Steady Steps and lo fund a celebralion event at Belf8St City Hall marking the achievem8nts of the initiative and the imp8Ct of the Buddy Up programme across 40 sGhools in Urban Vlllage localities. Desplte this shift, CRIS succéssfully navigat8d the Change, marking the beginning of a new phase of diversified incom8 generation and financial independence, The organisation continued to slrenglhen its funding base through a mix of statutory, philanthropic and p8rtnershibas8d Income. guided by an updated Fundlng Strategy, reviewed quarterfy to ansure darity and a¢¢ountabilily around income sources and targets. CRIS maintains a strong reputation for the effective 8dministr8lion of grants, ensuring all fijnding is managed In fijll compliance with contract conditions. The organisation consistently achieves and often exceeds programme outcomes anlicipalod at the point of application. Feedback fft)m funders continues to affimi that CRIS reprents excellgnl value for money, demonstrating impact and accountability 8cross all areas of delivery. The charity remains committed to mlnimising governance and administrative costs, ensuring that tho vast majority of incom& directly supports peacebuilding programmes within sch(x)I communities across tha seven localltles ir) which CRIS operates. CRIS is also subj8Ct to regular finandal and compliance audits by the NICRC and TEO and Is highly regarded for its robust gov8rnanc8 Standards and transparentfinancial management. During this reporting p8riod, CRIS also submitted a new core funding application to Ihe NICRC and is hopèful of a positlve outcome that would secure multi-annual core fvnding to support the organisation's stablllty and long- temi strategic delivery. CRIS also securèd new investment for its Growing GRACE programme through continued partnership with the Ardbarron Trust and extends Its appreciation to Antrim and Newtownabb&y Borough Council, which Invested in CRIS via a single-supplier contracl to supwrt NEST partnership activities. These fvnds, extending into the next financial year, are structured as service agreements rather than traditional grants, reflecting th6ir contractual and oulcomes-based nature: CRIS values these flexible and forward-looklng partnorshlps and aims to build on these relationships with like-mirided investors to sustain and éxpand ils programmes, The Trustees wish to aLnowledge the Irlsh Govemment's decislon to extend Shtegic Partner Fundlng for an additional year, pending the launch of its new Reconciliation Fund Strategy and th& reopening of the call for strategic Partners. This continued investment reflects the Irish Govemm&nt's confidence in CRIS'S reconciliation work and has been vital In mainlaining programme stsbilty during this transitional period. CRIS ended the financial year in a stable financial position, with total income of £275,103 and expenditure of £285,327, reflecting a platjned usè of reseeS to maintain prograrnme delivery during a transilional funding period. Unrestiicted rseeS stood at £82,483 at year-end a decrease of appioximat8ly £24,000 from the prevlous year, due to the need to utili5e reserves to COV8r salary and operational costs pendlng receipt of new income streams. This figure r8pr6s8nts 620/0 of the annual SerVeS target for the 2024-25 period. The Board is satisfied that reserves remain at a prud8nt18vel, providing ad8quale cover for short term obligations while supporling continued inve8lm8nt in staff and programmes. With new Income sources coming online and further diversification undgrway, CRIS anticipates growth in reserves over the coming y8ar and 8 steady increase beyond that. ensuring financial resilience and suslainabiltty for the organisation's long-term strategic objectives. 10-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Flnanclal Management: CRIS operates under a comprehensive Financial Managem8nt Policy and Procedure Manual, reviawad and updated annually to ensure compliance with Ihe Charities Act (Northem Ireland), the Charity Commission's guldanco on Internal Flnancisl Controls for Charftias, and lh8 Slatem8nt of Recomm8nded Practice ISORP). Financial oversight is provided by the Finance and Porsonnel Subcommittee, which meets quarterly ahaad of each Board m88ting. Chalred by the Treasurer and Including th8 Vice-chair and one other Trustee, the subcommlttee Is attended by the CEO and Finance Manager, who preparg the r818vant fin8n¢lal and HR reports requiring Board review or approval. The 5ubcommrttee provldes Strateglo guldan¢e on all financial matters, ensuring effèctive int8rnal controls, Ind8p8ndent audit processes. and prudent financial management. Its key responsibilities Include,, Providlng dlrection and a55urance to the Board on fiscal rasponslbS1ity, long-tgrm financlal planning, and stral8gy. Revlewing management accounts, budgets, and funding stratsgieg to ensure solv8ncy and sustainability. Re¢ommendlng the annual budget for Board approval and ov8rse6ing Ihe managerment of organisational assets and risk exposure. Advising the CEO on finance, HR and risk rnanagement matters. The Treasurer, CEO, and Finance Manager meet manthly and more frequently as required to monltor flnancial performance and address emerging issues. The Chalr also meats r8gularly with the CEO and participates in organisational development meetings. ensuring a strong link between governance oversight and the dalivery of CRIS'S charitable objectives. Reserves Policy and Procedures l. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for managing and maintainlng appropriate financial resèrves to support the stablllty and sustalnability of CRIS. The pollcy aims to 8nsure that CRIS can meet its ongoing operation81 commitments, manage finandal risks and invest in future projects In lin6 with its charitable obj8Ctiv8s. 2. Scope This policy applies lo all trustees. management, and finance staff responsible for the financial management of CRIS. It covers th8 idènlification. calculation, and review of reserves. 3. Policy Statement CRIS is committed maintaining that: Ensures financial stability and operatsonal continuity. Allows effoctive rnanagement of unforeseèn financial risks or 108ses. Supports the strategic goals and fulure growth of the charity in accordan with the charity's purposes and objectives. levol reserves 4. Definltlon of Reserves Reserves are the portion of unrestrictad funds that are fr8ely available for general charitable purpos8S. 8xcluding funds set aside for specific projocts, restricted funds, and flxed assets (such as property and equlpmantl. 5. Key Guidancè and R8f&rences The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland (CCNI) Reserves Guidanc0= Provides guidelines on Setting, managing and reporting charity reserves (htt s".Ilwww.chari commissionni.or .uklcharil -essentialslman2 financial-diff icult16slres8rves The Charities Statement of Recommended pctice (SORPI: Offers a framework for accounting and reporting practices for charities, including reserves management. 11
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 ReseNa$ Procedures 1. Detannlnlng the ReseNo8 Level Assess Operational Needs: Annually assess the charity's operating costs, including regular expanses such as salari8s, r8nt, and ov8rheads. Rlsk Assessment: Conduct a financial risk assassment lo Id8ntlfy potential risks that may impact funding, Income streams, or expenditur8S. Sel Targel ReseNès: Th8 target reserves level should be dotarmlned based on three to slx months of operating costs and anticipated financial risks. 2. Monitorlng and Managing Reserves Quarterly Flnancial Revi8ws- Financial staff should review the reserves18v&ls quarterly land more often a5 required) to 8nsure they align with target thresholds. Annual Revlew by Twstoes". The reserv8s policy and target levels should be reviewed annually by the 8oard of trustees. Reporting to Stakeholdars.. Include the reserves policy and current reseNes position in the annual financial statements, in line with the Chatity Commission for Northern Ireland {CCNI} and Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) r8quir8ments. 3. Utlllslng Reserves Aulhortsalion for Us8.. Reserve5 can be drawn down in thB event of an emergency or flnancial shortrall, but must be authorised by the board of Irustee8. Replenishment of Reserves: When raserves are utilised. the board must approve a plan to replenish res8rves within an agreed timeframe. Rastrlcted and Deslgnated Funds" Distinguish b8tween unrestricted reserves, designated funds, and restricted funds, ensuring rastricted funds are used solely for their intended purposes. 4. Core Pun)oses for Uslng R8serv8s The Board aims to hold unraslricted reserves to enable ihe organisation to maintain its aCtItieS in the event of: Gaps in funding Late payment of granls and f8e8 Upgrades in IT systems and equipment 8$ and when the need arises Gaps in opportunities to Income generate through training and ¢onsultan¢y work Its redundancy liabilit16s and rental and other contracts Its match fLJnding obligations sel out In funding contracts where any Perntage of staff salaries are not covered by another funderls) 5. Procadurès for Reportlng and Compliance Annual Reporting Requirements., In accordance with the CCNI'S guidan, CRIS will include a statsment on reserves within the annual report. Flnancial Statement Disclosure- Provide a clear explanatlon in financial statements rf reserves fall below or exceed the target range. 6. Review and Revlsion of Policy Annual Policy R8view: The r@sarves policy should be reviewed annually by the Board of trustees. Adjustment of Target Reserves.. Any adjustment lo the reserves targot level should be based on updated financial projections and risk assessments. 12-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 7. Current Reservès Po81ts"on: As of 31 March 2025, CRIS htsld total reseNes of £82,483, representlng 62 % of th8 organisation's target position of £134,000 for the 2024-25 year. The Board has revised th$ reserves target for the forthcoming year (2025-26) to reflect slx months of op&rgling cosls1138kl plus a radundancy provlsion (35kl, selting a new targel of £173,000. CRIS expe¢t5 to achlave this level w1thin the next two years, supported by the sUC$sful delivary of Ils resource diversrfication strategy. This strategy focus8s on expandlng consultancy and contract work, developing corporate partnerships and strengthening tradltlonal fvndraising and donor angagement through event8 and campaigns. Substantial plannlng undertaken during this porting period has positioned CRIS to pivot effectively loward this multi-stranded income géneration model, enhancing financial resilience and long-term sustainability. Risk Managem8nt: The Board contlnues lo prioritlse effective rlsk manag8m8nt to ensure CRIS r8mains financially sustalnable, well govemed and focused on delivering public beneflt. Trustees actively monFtor key risks through a r8gularly updated Risk Register, with actions identifi8d and reviewed according to thelr Ilkellhood and potentlal Impact. Key risks and mitigations durlng the period included.. 1. Polltl¢al uncartalnty and reliance on govarnmont grants A new Funding and Resource Diversificatlon Strat8gy has been imp18ment8d to broaden income sources through Trusts and Foundations, busines5 partnerships, consultancy services and new fundraising activities. 2. Lack of a long-tsrm fundraising plan The new strategy addresses this by embeddlng multl-y8ar planning. Afull r8view will take place in 2025-26 to inform a new organisalional fundraising and sustainability plan. 3. Loss of key staff and recrultment challengas Competitive pay and CA)nditlons. A new 2024-2027 salary structure ansures fair and competitive pay with provision for inflalionary increases when affordable. Ernhand professional developmgnt and the Next Generation PeaGebuiJdsrs Programme support staff retention and the training of new Associates. 4. Organisational capacity and succèsslon plannlng A new Succession Planning Strategy 18 being developed io strengthen leadership continuity and delivary capacity. Addltlonal recruitment of Asso¢i8tas is planned for May 2025 to support futUre'¥rovrth. 5. R6PUtation and public communlcatlons The Board recognis&s th8 potential for reputation81 risk arising from online activity and public commentary. In response, CRIS has revlewéd and stréngthened its Complaints and Communications Procedures, updated its social media policy, and implemented clearer escalation processes and staff responsiblliti&s to &nsure timely, proportionate and professlonal responses. The Board remains committed to malntaining a proactive approach to risk. governan and 8UStain8billty, ensuring CRIS remalns resilient and strategically positlcinad for the years ahe8d. 13-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND IJIANAGEMENT Type of governlng document.. Community Relations in Schools is a community organisation governed by its constitution. It was adopted in April 1984 and last amend8d in October 2017 to ensure it was up to dat8 using best practice guideline8 as sat out in suggested m¢Jdel documents on the Northern Ir818nd Charity Commission's websit8. Trusteg selection methods: At lh8 Annual General Meeting each year a Board is appolnted lo run CRIS for the next yèar. Each m8mber of the Committee is elected for 8 period of three years. Retlring memb6rs eligib18 for re-election. All nominees must indicate their willingness to stand and be proposed and seconded. A written agreement of the nominated persons in absentia fftusl be present8d. Commillee members may also b8 co-opted on th9 CRIS ¢ornmittee a5 Potential n8w interested individuals are considered throughout the year. When considerlng the c¢Tropting of trLJStees, the Board has regard to the r8qLJirement for any specialist skills needed. We are fortunate lo have an engaged and active Bo8rd with an array of skills. The Board strives to b8 as diverse and representative of educational slakeholders and society in general, a5 possible and has expertise spanning the community and voluntary. funding. corporate and ststutory sectors. The goal to increase the CRIS Board lo maximum of 10 members has been delayed due to competing pressures within the year linked to the vacant position. Skill sets and experlis8 in the aroas of human resources, finance and fundraising havo bean pinpointed to aid recruitment and welcome statements Identified to increas8 our div8rsity. Trustee Induction and Tralnlng: N8w Irustges r8C8ive an inducfjon pack which provides information and guidelines on their task. responsibiliti6S. and the policles and values of CRIS. The CEO and members ofthe Board meet with new Irustees during the prellmlnary stages of th6ir appointm8nt to talk through the organisation in rn0 detsil. th8 history of its work, strategic positioning and discuss other areas of interest. New Irustees are brièfed on their legal obligations under charity guid6lines, the charity Commission guidance on public benefiL the ¢ontent of the constilution, the commlltee and declslon-making process, the strategic an operational plan and the recent financial perfomian¢e of the charity. During the induction period théy wlll meet the full staff team, other trustees and key partnèrs. Trustees ar encouragad to attend appropriate external training events wher@ these will facilitate the undertaking of their rolg. N8W twstees are invited to attend any mandatory meetings as set down by funders who support CRIS. Slatement of Board Members, Responslbllltles: Board members Nvill prepare financial stalements for éach year that give a true and aGcurate view of the state of affairs and of the surplus or deficit of the organisalion for thal period, In preparing those financial slatemèntg, the committee mernbers ar8 requlred to.. Select suitable aGGounting policies and then apply them consistently. Observe the methods and practices in the Charity Statement of Recommended Practice (SORPI. Make judgem8nts and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. Stat8 whether applicable accounting standards have been followad, subject to any malerlal departures disclosed and explained in th8 financial statgmants. Pr8P8re the financial statements on the going concern basis unless il is inappropriate to presume the charity wlll continue In buslness. 14-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS TRUSTEES REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Th8 Board members are responslble for keeping proper accounting records. whlch disclose reasonable accuracy at any lim8 the financial position of the organisation and to enable them to ensure that the financial ststements comply wlth curnnt legislation. They are also r6sponsible for s8faguarding tha assets of the company and h8nc& for tsking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularitigs. Organisatlonal Structure: The Board meets fourtimes per year and sub-groups me&t to address any additional finance, personnel and policy matters as r8quired. Finance and Personnel subcommittee meetings take place 1- 2 weoks before the Board meetings tQ 8nsura suffici6nt tim8 to update briefing packs and draft recommendation5 for Board discussion and decision maklng. The policy subcommlttee opératas on a more adhoG basis. Th8 Board employs a CEO who manag8S th& day-to-day operations of the charlty. Stalement of dlsclosure of informatlon to audltors: So far as each of the Board members at the dats of approval of thesè finsncial statements are 8w8re.' (al there Is no relevant infomiation of which the charity audltors are unaware: and (b) th8y hav6 taken all the sleps that th8y ought to hava tak8n as trustees in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit infomatlon and to establish that the charity's audrtors are awara of that information. Approved artd adopted by a meeting of the Trustees on Monday 8th Decemb8r 2025 signed on their behalf. The trustees report was approved by the Board of Trustaes. N Richardson (Chairperson) Dated.. 8 December 2025 L. Patterson (Treasurer) Dated 8 December 2025 15-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trust8es are responsible for preparlng Ihe Trustee Report and the accounts in accordance with applicable law and United klngdom Accounting Stsndards (United Kingdom GenerallyAc¢epted Accountlng Praclicel. The law 8pplicable ID charitles in Northern Ireland requires the trustees to prèpare financial statements for each financial year which givè a Irue and falr view of the state of affairs of the charty and of the incoming resourc6s and application of resources of the charity for that year. In preparing these financial statements, the trusteas ere required to: - select suitable accounting polici8s and thèn apply them conslstently- obs8rve the m8thods and principles In the Charities SORP., makè Judgements and estimates that ar6 reasonable and pnjdent. stale whelher applicable 8Gcounting standards have been followed, subject to any mal6rial departures disclosed and Bxplained in lh6 financial statements-, and pr8pare the financlal slalemenis on th8 going concarn basls unless it is inappropriate to pr8suma that th8 charity w511 continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for k8eping suffici8nt accounting records that disclose wilh r8asonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable Ihern to ensure thal the financial statements comply wlth the Ch8rities Act (Northem Ireland) 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsib18 for safeguarding the assets of the charity 8nd hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and dataction of fraud and other irregularities. 16-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS Oplnlon We have audltsd the financial statements of Community Relations In Schools {th8 'ch8rlVI for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet and notes lo the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting frameworf( that has been applied in th8lr preparation is appll¢able law and Unitèd Kingdom Accounting Standards, indudlng Financial Reporting standard 102 The FlrF8nci81 Reporting Standard applicable In th9 UK and R9public of Iroland (Unltad Klngdom Genarally Aco8Pted Accountlng Practice). In our opinion. th8 financial statements: givg 8 true and fair view of the state of the chariws affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resourcas, for the yaar th8n 8nd8d', have been properly prepared in accordance with Unlted Kingdom Generally Accepted Accountlng Practlce,. and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of tha Charities {Ac¢ounts and Raports) Fiegulations (North6rn Ireland) 2015. Basis for opinion W8 conducted our 8udil in accordance wth Intematlonal Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)} and appllcabl& law. Our responslblllties und8r those standards are further d8scribed in the Audilor's responsibilities for Ihe audlt of the financial statgmenls sectlon of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with th8 8thical r8quirements that 8re r818vant to our audil of the financial statements In the UK, Induding the FRC'S Ethlc£l Standard. and we have fulflllad our oth&r gthlcal responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we h8ve oblalned is sufficient and appropriate to provlde a basis for our opinion. Concluslons relatlng to golng concem We hav8 nothing to Trport in respect of the following matters in relaOn to which the ISAS IUKI requlre us to rgport to you where,. the truslees use of the going concern basis of accA)unting in the praparation of the financi81 statemenls is not appropriate., or tho tru5tpes have not disclosad in th8 finanTrAal statements any id8ntifi8d mat@rial uncertainlies that may cast significant doubt about the charity's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting fr)r a period Df at least twelve months from the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Other Informatlon The other information comprises the informatiDn includ8d in the annual report other than the financial statements and our audltovs report thereon. The twstees are responsible for Ihe other infomiation contained within the 8nnu81 report. Our opinion on the financial statements doe5 not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assuranc8 concluslon thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other informatlon is materfally inconsistent with the financial ststaments or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audll, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we Identy such material inconsistencies or aPpant material misstatemants, we are required to determin8 whether this gives rlse lo a material misstatement in Ihe fin8n¢ial statements themselves. If, bas8d on the work we have perfomied, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other informallon, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. 17-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS Matters ¢n which we are requlred to report by exception In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not idanliffied material misststements in the dir8thors' report included within the trustees raport. We have nothing to r8port In respect of th& following matters In relation to whlch Ihe Chariti88 (Accounts And R8POrts) Regulatlon5 (Northem Ireland) 2015 requires us to report to you rf, in our oplnlon: the information given in the financial statements is inconslslent In any material respect wlth the trustees report. or sufficient accounllng records have not been kept: or the financial stat8ments are not in agreemgnt wlth the accounting records. or wo have not reGelved all the infonnation and explanations we require for our audit. Responsibilities of trustees As explained more fully in the statement of trustees responsibiltties, the trustees arg responsible for the preparation of the financi81 statem6nts and for being satisfied that thgy give a true and fair view, and for such Snlernal Gonlrol as the truste8s d8t8rmin& is necessary to enable the preparation of financial ststemenls that free from matsri81 misstatemen( whether due to fraud or error. In pr8paring the financi818tstements, th8 trusta8s ara responslble for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a going concem. dlsdosing, as applicable, matters related to going conc&rn and using the golng concem basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to C6ase operations, or have no reallstlc alternative but to do so. Audltor's responslbilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objeclives are lo obtain reasonable assuranc8 about whethar the flnancial statements as a whole are free from mat8rial mlsstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that indudes our opinion. Reasonable assuran 15 a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK} will 8Iw8ys detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considerod matorial if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users tsken on the basis of these financial stat8ments. A furthar dascrlption of our responsibilities for the audit of the accounts is located on the Financi81 R8porting Council's website at- http-llwww.frc.org.uklauditorsr88ponsibilities. This description forms part of our audltovs r8POrt. 18-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS other matters whlch we are required to address Your attention is drawn to the fact that the Gharity has prepared accounts in accordance with 'Accounting and Reporting by Charitios: Ststement of Recommandéd Practic& applicable to charities preparing their accounts in a¢cordance with the Flnan¢lal Reportlng Standard applicable In the UK and R8public of Ireland (FRS 102) in prafaranc8 to the Accounting and Reporting by Charitles.. Statement of Rernrnended PractlC8 issued on 1 April 2005 whlch Is referred to in the extsnt wulatlons bul has now been withdrawn. This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance wllh Genorally Accepted Accounting Practice gffective for reporting pèrlods beginning on or after 1 January 2015. This report is mad8 solely to the charity'8 tru8t8es. a8 a body, in accordance with Ihe Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015. Our audit WO has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to stste to them In an auditors, r8POrt and fDr no oth8r purpose. To th8 fu118St extent permitted by law, w8 do not accept or assuTne resportslbllity to anyone other than the charity and Its trustees as a body, for our audlt worf( for this r8POrt, orfor th8 opinions w8 have formed. Mrs Amanda Harbinson (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Corrigan CA Limiled 8 December 2025 Charterad Accountants Statutory Audlt¢r 24 Greystone Road Antrim N Ireland BT412QN 19-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS STATEMENT OF FINANCIALACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Unrestricted Reslrlctod funds funds 2025 2025 Total Unrestricted Restrioted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 Notes 2024 Income from: Donations and lega¢i88 Charitable activitl8S Fundraising activities 26 26,905 16,422 7,505 224.245 7,531 251,150 16,422 4,450 304,438 4,450 336,287 31,849 Total income 43,353 231,750 275,103 31.849 308.888 340.737 Expenditure on: Charitable activitles 71,216 214,111 285,327 21,094 287,052 308,146 Total expenditur& 71.216 214,111 285.327 21,094 287.052 308,146 Net Incomel(expenditure) (27,863) 17,639 (10,224) 10,755 21,838 32,591 Transfars between funds 3,072 (3.072) 14,616 (14,616) Net movement in funds 124,791) 14,567 (10,224) 25,371 7.220 32,591 Reconclllatlon of funds. Fund balances at 1 April 2024 107,274 7,220 114,494 81,903 81,903 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 82,483 21.787 104,270 107,274 7,220 114,494 The statement of f Inancial activities includes all g8ins and losses recognised in the y8ar. All income and expenditure deriv8 from conlinuing activlties. 20-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS BALANCE SHEET ASAT 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notes Fixed assets Iniangible assets Tangible assets 12 1,949 3,421 1,955 3,427 Current asse18 Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 13 26,051 91,800 86,855 35,116 117.851 121,971 Credilors: amounts falling due wlthln ong y8ar 14 115,536) (10.904) Net current a$sots 102.315 111,067 Total assets less cuffent Ilabllltl8S 104.270 114,494 Net a55ets excludlng pension liability 104,270 114,494 Income Funds Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds 15 21,787 82,483 7,220 107,274 104,270 114,4g4 The financial stalements were approved by th@ trustees on 8 December 2025 L Patterson Trustee 21
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) AS AT31 MARCH 2025 Crltl¢al accounting estlmates and Judgements In the applicatlon of the charity's accounting policles, the trustees are required to mak8 Judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrylng amount of assets and liabiliti6S that are not readlly apparent from other sources. The astlmates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other facbrs that are considered to be relevant. Aclual rèsults may diffar from these estimates, The eslimatas and underlylng assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accountlng estirnates are recognised in thè period in whlch the eslimate is revised wher@ the revision aff8cts only that perrod, or in the period of tha revision and future periods wh8r8 the revision affects both current and future periods. Accountlng pollcles Charity Inforniation Communlty Relations In Schools is an unincorpor8ted charity. 2.1 Accounting conventlon The accounts have been prepared in 8ccordanc8 With the chaiity's goveming document, thg Charitl8S (A¢¢ounts and Reports) Regulations (Northem Ireland) 2015 and °Accounting and R@portlng by Charitles: statement of Recommended Practlce applicable to charities preparing thelr accounts In accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in th& UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102}" las 8mend8d for accounting p8riods commencing from 1 January 2016). The charity Is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for Charities applylng FRS 102 Update Bulleln 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows. The accounts have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Raports) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Slatem&nt of Recommend8d Practice for ¢harities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recomm6nded Practice which Is referred to in the Regulations but whlGh has since been withdrawn. The financi81 stat6m8nts are prepared In slerfing, whlch is the functional Currency of th8 charity. Monetary amounts in these financlal statemenls are round8d to the nearest £. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention. modified to include thB revaluation of freehold prop8rknes and to include investment propertios and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal aUntIng policies adopted are set out below. 2.2 Golng con¢om At tho time of 8pproving thè financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expoctation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existenc8 for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees ntinue lo adopt tha going ¢oncern basis of accounting in preparing the financial stat8ments. 2.3 Charitable funds Unrestricted funds are avallable for use at the discretion of th8 trusl&as in furth8rancg of thelr charilable objectives. Restricted fundg are subject to SP8cific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of Ihe restrict8d funds are set out in the notes lo the financial statem8nts. Endowment funds subject to specific ¢ondition5 by donors that the capital must b8 maintained by Ihe charty. -22-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accountlng pollcles Icontlnued) 2.4 Incomlng resources Income From Charitable Activities Incom8 from charitab16 activities is recognised when the charity Is legally entllled to tt after any performance conditions have been met, th8 amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received. Income from govemment or other grants, whetrier'capitsl, or 'revenue' grants, Is recognised when the charity has the entitlefflent to tha funds. any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, il is probable that th8 incom8 will bo received and the amount (sn b8 measured reliably and is not deferred. Donations & Le acies Cash donations are recognised on receipt. other donations are rgcognis8d onc8 the charity has b88n nolif18d of the don8tion. un18ss performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax re¢ov8rabla In relation to donatlons rgceiv8d under Gift Aid or d88ds of covenant is r8cognised at the time of the donalion, undralsin Fundraising income is recognised on recèipt. 2.5 Resources expendod Expendlture is r8cognised once there is a Iggal or constructive obligation to transfer economlc benefit to a third party, it Is probable that a transfer of economlc bene18 will b8 required in 5ettlem8nl, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by aclivity. The Gosts of each activity are made up of th8 total of direct costs and shar8d cosls, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct COSts attributabl6 to a single activlty arè allocat8d dir8Ctly to that activty. Shared cosls which contribute to more than one acltvily and support CQsl5 which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned bebNe8n those 8clivities on a basis consistent wilh the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spant, and depreciation chargas ara allocatgd on the portion of the 8sset's US8. enditure On Charitable A ivities Expenditure is cOgnised On there Is a legal or construcllve obllgatlon to transfer economic b8ngfit to a third paty, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. The charity is below the charity audit thrgshold and therefore is exempt from reporting expenditure on an activity basis. The charity has opted to report by the nature rather than on an activ¢ty basis. 2.6 Intanglblo fLxad assgt5 Othor than goodwlll Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognlsed at cost and are sutys¢quantly measured at GO$t lass accumulated amortisation and accumulated impaiment losses. Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separatgly from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that Ihe expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset 11 flow to the entity and the fair value of tha asset can be measured r81iably' th8 inlangible asset arises from contractual or other leg81 rights,. and the inlanglble asset is separable from the entity. Amortisation is recognised so as to write off tho cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over Iheir useful Iiv6s on the following basis.. Software 20% slraight line -23-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting policl8S (Continued) 2.7 Tanglble flxed assets Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently m68sured at cost or valuatlon, net of depreciation 8nd any impairment losses. Depreciation is racognis8d so as to wrlte off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values ovar their useful lives on the following bases- Fixtures, flttlngs & equipment 20Q/o Stralght line The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset Is detemiined as the diff8reneE be8@n the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the assat, and is recognised in the stal8menl of flnanclal activities. 2.8 Impalnnent of flxed assels At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the (xrying amounts of its tangible and intangibl& assèts to detemiin8 whether there15 any indication that thos8 assets have suffered an impaimient loss. If any such Indication exlsts, the recov8rable amount of th8 asset is estimated in Drder to datermlne the extent of the impairment loss (if any). 2.9 Cash and cash equlvalents Cash and cash equlvalents include cash in hand. deposits held at call with banks. other short-terni liquid investments with original m8turilies of three months or less. and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within botTowings in currant liabilities. 2.10 Flnancial instruments The charily has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 'Basic Financlal Instrumenls, and Section 12 'Other Financial Instrurnents Issu8s' of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. Fin8ncial instruments are recognlsed in the charity's balanc8 shagt when the charity becomes paty to the contractual provlsion5 of the instrument. Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with Ihe net amounls presented in the financial slatements. when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and Ihere is an intention to sethe on a nel basis or to re8lise the asset and settle the liabilty simullanoously. Basic fin4ncial assets Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured al transaction prlco Including transaction costs and are subsequenlly carried at amorlis8d cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constrfcutes a financing transaction, where the transaction Is measured at the present valué of the future receipts discounted al a m8rket rate of interest. Financial assets classrfied as receivable wilhin one y@ar are nol amortised. Basie financial li8bllities Basic financial Ilabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction pricè unless Ihe arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is mgasured at the present value of tho future payments discounted 8t a market rate of interesL Financial liabilities clas5ffi8d as payable within one year are nol amortised. Dèbt instruments ara subsequently carried at amortised cost, uslns the effecttve interest rate melhod. Trade creditors ar6 obligations to pay for goods or services that have b8en 8cquired in the ordlnary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as currant Ilabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction pric8 and subsequantly measured al amortised cosl using the 8ffective interost m8thod. 24-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounllng pollclos {Continu8d) Dèrecognltion of financial liabilitie5 Financlal Ilabllltigs are derecognised when the ch8rtty's contractual obligations expire or are dlscharged or cancelled. 2.11 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entillement is recognised in the perlod in whlch the employee's s8rvic8s ar8 received. Temiination benefits ate recognised immediately as an expense whgn the charity is damonstrably committed to terminate th8 employm8nt of an employee or to provido temiination benefits. Income from other trading aclivities Unr8Stricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 Fundralsing events 16,422 -25-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 4 Charltablo activitles Totsl 2025 Total 2024 Servic6 Delivary Grants 26,905 224,245 31.849 304,438 251,150 336,287 Totsl 2025 Total 2025 Total 2025 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 26,905 26,905 224,245 224,245 224,245 26,905 251.150 For the year ended 31 March 2024 Total 2024 Total 2024 T¢)tal 2024 Unrestrlcted funds Restrfctgd funds 31,849 31,&49 304,438 304,438 178,273 17.556 336,287 Totsl 2025 Totsl 2024 Included In Grants Aro: Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council Good Relations Funding Northern Ireland Community Relations Council CO Funding Northern Ireland Communty Rolations Council Community Relations and Cultural Diversity Funding Department of Foreign Affairs and Trad6 Reconciliation Fund - Strategic Partner Grant D@partment of Foreign Affairs and Trade Raconciliation Fund - Project Fund The Executive Office. Central good Relations Fund Halifax Foundation The Executive Office, Urban Vi118ges Initiative Community Foundation Northern Ireland 2,000 73.995 72,787 12.546 9,501 83,024 84.310 20,941 15,779 5,000 5,960 5,000 133,470 4,370 224,245 304,438 -26-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 4 Charftablo a¢tlvlti (Contlnued) Charitable activities 2025 2024 Staff wsts Staff Training Depreciation and impairmgnt R8sources Travel Subscriptlons Hospitality Facilitation Light & Heat Te1aphon6 Sundry Raffl8 Prizes Subcover Accountancy Prof8ssional F8es Bank Charges R8nt Insurance Post. printing & Statlonery Computer Running expenses Venues Loss on disposal of Fixed Assets Cleanlng 181,659 954 1,695 10,488 6,235 1,539 15.971 24,855 193,966 2,990 1,897 12,832 8,613 1,863 7,066 30,561 1,188 475 1.137 485 402 2,505 10,540 2,988 5,141 281 11,295 3,591 1,325 36 2,359 22,183 2,939 1,556 11,655 3,164 1,708 18 2,192 18 285.327 308,146 Net movement In funds 2025 2024 The net movement in funds is slated after chargingllcredtting): Trustees None of the truste8s (or any persons CDnneclad with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year. No truste8 expens8s have been incurred. -27-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Audltor's remuneratlon The analysis of auditorfs remunaralion is as follows.. 2025 2024 Audilorfs Remun@ration 2,988 2,706 Total audlt feès 2,988 2.706 Employees There were 5 amployeos during the year. Last year there w8re 6 employees, Employment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salarias Other p&nsion costs 177,632 4,027 189,702 4,263 No employees received employe8 ben9fits of more than £60,000. 10 Taxation The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its Income Is applied for charitable purposes. 11 Tangible fixed a558ts Flxturns. ffttings & equÈpment Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions Disposals 18,574 225 {777) At 31 March 2025 18,022 Depreclatlon and impalmient At 1 April 2024 Depreciation charged in the year Eliminatad in respect of disposals 15,153 1.695 1775) At 31 March 2025 16,073 Carrying amount At 31 March 2025 1,949 At 31 March 2024 3,421 28-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 11 Tangible flxed assets {Continued) 12 Intanglble fixod a$sats Software Cost At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 35,464 Amortlsatlon and Impalrment At 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 35,458 Carrying amount At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 13 Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due withln one year. Tde debtors 2S,051 88,855 14 Credltors: amounts falllng due wlthin one year 2025 2024 Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals and deferred inGome 11,575 1,236 2,725 5,656 2,691 2,557 15,536 10,904 15 Rogtri¢tsd funds Tha restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended bal8nces of donations and granls held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors a8 to how they may be used. At 1 April 2024 Incomlng resources Rèsources expended Transfor8 At 31 March 2025 7,220 231,750 (214,111) (3,072> 21.787 -29-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 15 R8Strlcted funds (Contlnued) Prevlous year: At 1 Aprll 2023 Incomlng Resources resource8 expended Transfer8 At 31 March 2024 308,888 (287,052) (14.616> 7,220 16 Unrestrlctsd funds The unrestricted funds of th8 charlty comprise the unaxpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific condltlons by donors and grantors as lo how they may be used. These include deslgnated funds whl¢h have been set aside out of unrestrl¢ted funds by the trustees for specific purposes. At 1 April 2024 Incoming rgsourcos Resourc expended Transfers At 31 MarGh 2025 General knnds 107,274 43,353 (71,2161 3,072 82.483 Previous year: At 1 Aprll 2023 Incornlng Resources r&sourc8S xpended Transf&rs At 31 March 2024 General funds 81,903 31,849 (21,094) 14.616 107,274 17 Analysls of net assets between fund5 Reslricted Unrestrlcted Total Fund balances at 31 March 2025 are represented by". Intangible fixed ass8ts Tangibl& assets cUt assetsl(liabilities) 1,949 80,528 1.949 102.315 21.787 21,787 82,483 104,270 18 Movement in Funds Fund At 01104123 Incoming Resources Resources Expended Transfers At 31103124 Restricted Unrestrictsd 7,220 107,274 227,245 45,353 (209,60fj) (73,216} (3,072) 3,072 21,787 82,483 114,494 272.598 1282,822) 104.27Q -30-
COMMUNITY RELATIONS IN SCHOOLS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 19 Related party Iransactlons Th6re were no dlsclosable r&lat8d paty transactions during the year (2024 - none). 31