THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 The board of trustees have pleasure in presenting their Annual Report, together with the audited financial statements for the year ended 310ecember 2023. The financial slatements have been prepared in accordance wtlh the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and compty with the charitable company's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounling and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordan with the Financial Reporting Slandard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019)- Objectives and activities Leprosy is not simply an affliclion from ancient times.. it is a modem. 21 st-century disease that is slill devastaling the lives of people across the globe today. A person is diagnosed with leprosy every tsvo minutes. In addition. millions more go undiagnosed every year. It's an injustice. However. there is a Cu. No one should suffer from a preventable and treatable disease. As long as leprosy afflicls individuals and communities. we are commttled to breaking the chains of leprosy, addressing underlying causes as well as working to prevent disability and empowering people to attain healing, dignity and wholeness in their lives. Our vision is leprosy defeated and lives transfomied. We seek to do everylhing that we can 50 that children can be bom into a world without being at risk of lepr05y because it is no longer transmitted- anybody affected by leprosy can enjoy fullness of life- and there is inclusion, and not discrimination for people affected by leprosy. Compelled by the example of Jesus Christ we minister and work in supporl of The Leprosy Mission Intemalional Iregislered Charity in England & Wales No.. 1076356). The Leprosy Mission Northern Ireland (registered charity No.. NIC 106322) works to raise awareness of leprosy in Northem Ireland and to raise vital resources lo make leprosy a thing of the past. This work is undertaken through prayer. fundraising, advocacy. and volunteering in fulfilment of the following charitable purposes= The advancement of health and relief of poverty for the benefft of the public, in particular in relation lo leprosy., The relief of those in need by reason of ill heatth or disabilty, in particular with people who are disadvanlaged by leprosy and people connected with them.. to enable their integration in their communities., The eradication of leprosy Globally, The Leprosy Mission ITLM) has an ambitious, tsrgeted goal of Zero Leprosy Transmission by 2035 which links with our other focus areas. working towards Zero Leprosy Disability and Zero Leprosy Discrimination. Zero Leprosy Transmission To interrupl Iransmission, we target areas with high rates of leprosy prevalence and adopt an approach thal combines multiple tactics. including local govemment ownership. health system integration and development of new technologies lo support and develop leprosy expertise in pnmary and secondary healthcare workers. With a strong record in leprosy research, we utilise field presence to develop. investigate and trial searCh innovations relaled to reducing transmission, earty diagnosis, monitoring relapse, antimicrobial resistan and reactions to Multi Drug Therapy {MDT), Ihe cure for leprosy. Zero Leprosy Disability Disability is nol an inevitable consequence of leprosy. However. people continue to be affected by it, oflen due to late diagnosis or treatment complications. Limited local govemment ownership of leprosy care, complications in care management and lack of disability services, coupled wilh dedining leprosy expertise (which can spot the first signs of leprosy) means that people are not getting the timely interventions they need. Globally, we continue to provide rehabilitation and well-being services into countries where local governments need assistance. We particularly focus on work at a community level to promote models of self-care that empower people to manage Iheir impairments.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Zero Leprosy Discrimination There are over 130 laws in different countries that legalty discriminate persons affected by leprosy from enjoying certain fundamental human rights guaranteed under the national constttutions for citizens of their respective countries. People affected by leprosy are still routinely overlooked, ignored or prevented from a full participation in public, social, economic and cullural lrfe. They also feel shame and isolate Ihemselves due lo self-sligma. Stigma and discrimination are key factors why those affected by leprosy do not seek out help. Globally. we support people affected by leprosy to challenge injustice and self-advocate for their rights and entitlements. Together we larget discriminalory law and official practice, while encouraging nation states to uphold the relevant international treaties especially the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the UN Principles and Guidelines for the Elimination of Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy and Their Family Members. We promote opportunities to earn a sustainable living and we work with communities to address the barriers that prevent this from happening. We know from what those affected by leprosy tell us that when they can bring resources into the household economy their standing in the famity and wider community increases and Iheir voice begins to be heard. Partnership Working The charity delivers its charitable aims through grant making using global partners, chiefly other TLM national programmes. This ulilises local knowledge and expertise and promotes empowemient and long temi sustainabilily. The Leprosy Mission Northem Ireland is a member of The Leprosy Mission Global Fellowship (GF), made up of 27 member countries and affiliates, and a signatory to The Leprosy Mission Fellowship Charter which underpins the worldwide operations of the charity (30 May 20111 Updated September 2018)- Together, we are the largest player in the fight against leprosy. We work collaboralivety, particularly wilh our colleagues wsthin the U.K, The Leprosy Mission Great Britain, The Leprosy Mission Shop. Globally. The Leprosy Mission is a key member of The Global Partnership for Zero Leprosy which brings together organisalions including The Intemalional Federation of Anti-Leprosy Associalions IILEPI, the Novartis Foundalion, the International Association for Integration, Dignity and Economic Advanment {IDEAI, as well as national leprosy programmes and is supported by the Wodd Health Organisation (WHO). This partnership co-ordinates action to accelerale research. mobilise technical assislance and expertise and increase advocacy and fundraising in the pursuit of a leprosy free world. We are also a member agency of ILEP (the International Federation ofAnti-Leprosy organisationsl, EU-CORD (a network of European Christian Relief & Development non-govemmental organisalions) , People in Aid, the Micah Network, the Neglected Tropical Disease NGDO Netsyork (a global forum for non-govemmental organisations working logether on neglected tropical diseases) and BOND (The Inlemational Development Neorf(). In Northem Ireland we are also a member of the Missions Action Partnership {MAPI, Will To Give G). Volunteer Now, Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action {NICVA) and CADA (Coalition of Aid Development Agencies in Northern Ireland). TLMNI is also a signalory of the Dochas Code of Conduct on Images and Messages h11 s 11 www.dochas.ielresourceslcommunicats.ons- elcode-of-conduct-on4ma es-and-messa esl Public Benefit TLMNI supports leprosy projects woddwide, working at an individual, community and governmental level to support research, develop capacty and implement programmes to raise awareness and deliver effective medical care and outreach. People affected by leprosy are also given the support they need to get back on their feet and live healthy lives by providing access to education, vocational training. housing and sanrtation. We have referred to The Charity Commission's guidance on reporting on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objeclives and planning our aclivities. Globally. The Leprosy Mission and tts partners work with people around the world irrespective of their race. faith or nationality and the Board of Trustees have ensured that the activities undertaken conlribule lo the aims and objectives of the charity and provide a benefft to the beneficiaries. The Trustees are therefore confident that we rneet the public benefft requirements.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Achievements and perfonnance The past e1ve months has continued to be a challenging and difficult year for our work both locally and globalty. As our programmes continue to be subject to disruption by political and economic instability and are still feeling the significanl impacts of Ihe global COVID-19 pandemic. we are thankful for the generosity of supporters who have sustained core services and have enabled those affected by leprosy to receive vrtal care and treatment. 2023 has seen financial growth for TLMNI. £788.019 total income cornpared to £759.095 in 2022. In contrast to the previous year, this growth has occurred in unrestricted giving. Local supporters have continued to give generously throughout the year, with general donations and gtfts received increasing by nearly 7 % compared to Ihe previous year12022'. £380,78212023 £405.886)- This increase is largety due to an additional fundraising appeal in the year boosling individual giving alongside an overall increase in church giving. Legacy giving saw a slighl decrease in the year of c.£30,000. However, a grealer proportion was unrestricted allowing trustees to have greater flexibility to direct funds where they are most needed. We have continued to provide core funds to our long temi partners, over the past year. Good financial and long temi planning has enabled the charity io continue lo provide significanl funds, lotalling £422,927 to overseas projects and to support the unique and critical work of The Leprosy Mission Intemational (TLMI)- Compared to the previous year's funding 12022.. £452.005). Ihere is a decrease of 6 /0 in overseas fvnding. This is largely due to delays in project delivery in Ethiopia. as a result of intemal conflict and civil unrest and legacies received late in the year. The Board are hopeful that as the situation stsbilises in Ethiopia, that the project will be delivered as planned in 2024. In 2023, Remittances were transferred from Northem Ireland to part support the project5 and programmes in Bangladesh £70,000, India £28,625, Nepal £189,795, Nigeria £42,780, Tanzania £12,726, and Ethiopia £4,000 as well as our apportioned contribution (Global Fellowship Levyl towards The Leprosy Mission Global Fellowship of £75,000. This contribution helps co-ordinate efforts to meet the needs of those affected by leprosy on a global platform and ensures that robust monitoring and due diligen processes are in place for all projects. Funds Iransferred to Nepal lotaled £189,795 which included support lowards Anandaban Hospital, Ihe main leprosy referral hospital in Nepal, and funds of £112.385 in support of 'Dignty Firsf - a 3 year project, 2023-2025, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT - Irish Aid Civil Society) which seeks to improve the health, well- being and dignity of 1.089 people affecled by leprosy and enhance the lechnical capacity of 90 Govemment health workers and 300 Community Health Volunteers to identify. diagnose. treat, and manage leprosy and complications. A grant of É100,000 was received from DFAT at the end of FY22 for disbursement as per agreed budgel in FY23, alongside TLMNI'S match funding commitment. A further grant of E130.000 {£112.3851 was received in FY23 for use in 2024.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 The kindness, care and compassion of our supporters, alongside the dedication of our partners and stsff have enabled the following successes throughout the past year. Our vision is leprosy defeated, lives transfomied. Behind each of these numbers, is a life supported and a step doser to the defeat of leprosy.. India In partnership with other global TLM members, funding support achieved= 14.555 cases of leprosy were seen at Purulia Hospital during the year (1.036 new and 13,519 revisit51, with 22.80/0 of grade 2 disability in newty diagnosed cases. It was particularty encouraging that O cases of children wilh grade 2 disability were found. 3,088 clients were treated for leprosy complications (eg= reactions. neuritis and ulcer care) 36 reconstructive surgeries for leprosy affected, with 97.2% of improved function and appearance following surgery 3,393 items of fO0ear were made for leprosy affeded people. giving increased mobility, and helping to prevenl further disability 24 artificial limbs were provided 23 individuals referred for livelihood training or attendance at vocational training cenlres 8 outreach heatth clinics were conducted 48,463 medical consultations were conducted. which covered general medicine, orthopedics, demiatology, denlistry, psychiatry and pediatrics The loss of a qualified surgeon during the year meant that onty 83 minor surgeries were conducted As a result of the Children Unite for Action programme.. 542 children affected by leprosy {Male=292- Female=250) Vre selected and benefited directly from this programme 10 Children Parliaments have been fomied and were supported to provide children a larger platform to leam and participate in different activities focused on the importance of personal hygiene and advocating for their rights and developing leadership and comrnunication 5ki11s 16 leprosy champions were identified and capacty building programmes delivered to support the selected children in Iheir roles 21 Village level Child Protection committees were fomed 146 children affected by leprosy were provided wilh educational support 16 children affected by leprosy were referred for vocational training Community based vocational training activities were started in all 3 locations of the project Orientalion programmes for parents were conducted at 3 locations of this project Bangladesh In partnership with other global TLM mernbers, funding support achieved= 18,896 community people were reached through 1.112 community awareness sessions 5,389 school studenls & 52 medical college students Vre orientated on leprosy through 82 school sessions 465 new leprosy cases were found through partners and governmenl health cenlres as part of the 'Activating & Engaging Partnerships to reduce leprosy in Bangladesh, IAEP) project. 1000/0 of cases have been registered and are receiving multi drug therapy (the cure for leprosy)- 147,469 people from 31.373 families were screened from identifying new cases through contacts and skin camps 19 Church leaders and key staff at 3 Tea Companies received training in leprosy case deleclion, treatmenl, referral, awareness and complication care 206 patients with leprosy complications reiVed vital treatment from TLM and partner hospitals 121 persons with leprosy disability had asS to protective footwear. wheelchairs or other mobility assisted devices 144 self-help groups with 1,939 members across eight dislricls were also supported, with 85.5/0 of members reporting that they have improved inclusion as a result 31 leprosy affected volunteers were trained in promoting self care 22 federations were formed with psentatIveS from the self-help groups and received leadership and organisational development training with the aim to build the federations as sustainable people organisations The work achieved through the federations and self help groups led to 22 advocacy initiatives to access local govemment services 36 out of 54 persons reported an InCaSed income as a result of being engaged in income-generating activities using self help group loans
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 During 2023, three research studies were also conducted in Bangladesh, part funded from TLM Northern Ireland, which contributed towards global research priorities. Global Research Workshop TLMNI provided seed funding, in partnership with TLM Great Britian. for the first Global research workshop in 2023 which took place in Ethiopia. The workshop had 3 goals.. For researcher's to gel to know each other To increase awareness on research work being conducted and specific expertise in Global Fellowship To build a sense of community amongst TLM researchers, with feedback from participants affirming that opportunities like the workshop were vital in facilitating collaboration and coordinated work. One participant said.. "This is the most effective research W0shOp . ..it has helped me a lot in neMothing, undetandIng the WO done different TLM Organisations, leaming more on different types of research done. This will help me and us to grow more in leprosy research. Through the help of research, we can beat leprosy and END LEPROSY TOGETHERI" A key outcome from the workshop was the fomiation of four communities of research practi research,. clinical research,. public health- emancipalory research. Laboratory Research teams from TLM Nepal and TLMT India participated in person and representatives from TLM Nigeria, DR Congo and Ethiopia were also presenl. Unfortunatety. the Bangladesh research team were unable to attend TLM Global workshop due to visa issues. Ethiopia During the year, TLMNI part funded the country office and key staff posts in TLMI- Ethiopia. Unfortunatety, funding available for the projecl, Dare to Dream (an inlegrated and comprehensive leprosy conlrol model Ihrough health system strengthening and community empowemient and ownership). was not used in 2023 due to civil unrest and conflict in project areas. By the end of the year, Ihe political silualion had become more stable and after a project review, it is hoped that the project wll be able to deliver agreed activtlies in 2024. Tanzania In partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Central Tanganyika (DCT) we continued to support work at Hombolo Hospital and through Ihe Community Health Education Programme {CHEP). Unfortunately, Ihe CHEP Director who had resigned during 2022 was not replaced by DCT and thi5 led to difficulties in the implementation of activities and caused a number of delays during the year. Despite these circUmstanS the following achievements ocCued.. Leprosy screening continued in 6 villages in Dodoma region where 211 individuals were screened for leprosy 12 new cases of leprosy were confimied during the year. following screening in villages and, at Hombolo Hospital 2,867 people benefitted from communty awareness sessions in the villages which advocated for the importance of earty case detection to help redu disabilty and social stigma 5 self help groups were successfulty supported to Introdu the production of small scale vegetables, irrigation, lailoring, livestock keeping and cash crops cultivalion. During the year, growing sunflowers and keeping livestock were particularty successful. As a result. leprosy affected individuals are better able to care for Ihemselves and generate income for their famity needs. These groups also provided a neOrk for leprosy case follow up, particularty around self care for nerve damage. Safeguarding training was reiVed by 5 village chairmen, 6 volunteers, 8 hospital workers and 79 individuals suspected of having leprosy. Given the ongoing difficulties and the low number of leprosy cases being detected, the Board. in collaboralion with TLM International staff, conducted a comprehensive review of activities and funding available, during the year, to review achieved outcomes and ensure that there was an appropriate relum on investment given capacily and funding provided. It was concluded that the fijnds invested could be better used in another TLM Country to maximise the global impact of our strategy to enable zero leprosy transmission, zero leprosy disability and zero leprosy discrimination. TLMNI will continue ils partnership with DCT through prayer and encouragement, as required.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Nigeria In 2023, we continued to fund the expanded project for Integrated leprosy control towards zero transmission in Kogi and Kwara states. During the year., 203 general health workers. traditional healers & communty volunteers were trained on how to identify, refer and, if qualified. diagnose and manage cases of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases. Rates of referral from the communilies have InCaSed following the training. 20 government health workers were trained lo diagnose leprosy through skin 51tt 5mear5 a5 most patients are missed at government health clinics due to wrong diagnosis. This has enhanced earty detection. 1,418 persons were screened in 5 skin camps across the states 22 new cases of leprosy were found during skin camps by newly trained health workers. All leprosy cases have been registered and are receiving MDT, the cure for leprosy and 96VD of new leprosy patients had Iheir household contacts screened wf(h 1 new case of leprosy being diagnosed 26 members from 6 self care groups received training on how lo manage their ulcers and improve general hygiene. As a result of training, group members are activety mobilized to support other members in the self help groups. There is significant improvement in ulcer management and wound healing, and a reduction in ulcer reporting and amputation of limbs. 1,277 young people attended school based workshops to improve their personal and environmental hygiene helping to prevent disease. Infonnation was provided on hygiene, hand washing, proper sanitation, and disposal of waste material, signs and symptoms of leprosy and other neglecled tropical diseases and where to go for help when needed. This has led to improvement in health and environmental cleanliness with wider impacts for all community members who have adopted health practices such as proper storage of drinking water, frequent hand washing and getting rid of refuse correctty. 317 people across 4 communities were reached with infomiation on symptoms, causes and treatment of leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases. Nepal Despite another challenging year. Anandaban hospital. the main leprosy refeal hospital in Nepal, continued to provide high standards of care by providing consuttation for over 39,350 outpatients visits and caring for 929 inpatients. Alongside the support of global partners the following was achieved= 144 new cases of leprosy were diagnosed through the hospttal 7.323 leprosy patients were seen at outpatient clinics 169 leprosy surgical intepientions oCcUed and 432 ulcer septic surgeries conducted for leprosy affected 112 reconstructive surgeries occurred for leprosy patients helping restore mobility in leprosy affected limbs 1,127 ttems of footwear & 29 proslheses were distributed 928 supportive appliances were provided 2.959 physiotherapy sessions were delivered 6,149 patient sessions were conducted at outreach satellite dinics, of which 562 patients received consultation for leprosy services School health programmes were initiated during the year to raise awareness to children and their families on health promotion, prevention and treatment. 548 school children from 6 drfferent schools were reached with more than 50 /0 reporting health related issues. During ihe year, a number of renovations were completed al the hosptlal and equipment purchased for the emergency and trauma wing. Fencing was also installed around the hospital to increase security-
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 2023 also saw the first full year of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade {DFAT - Irish Aid Civil Society) funded project, Dignity First, which seeks to improve the health, well-being and dignity of 1.089 people affected by leprosy and enhance the technical capacity of 90 Government health workers and 300 Community Health Volunleers to idenlify, diagnose, treat. and manage leprosy and complications. During Year 1. the project reached 12,189 people with 1,178 people receiving direct help from pop up heatth clinics. 10,059 close contacts were traced which led to 311 people receiving a leprosy diagnosis and receiving medicine and treatment. Medical intetvenlions SUPPOrted 438 leprosy patients, health, wellbeing. independence & social acceptance. During the year 415 communty health volunteers were also trained, 314 of whom were female. This is particularfy important given that one of the key aims of the project is to increase detection of leprosy in women and girls and support Iheir health, in general. Advocacy- The global membership support levy. which TLMNI contributes as a member of the Global Fellowship, funds strategic posts and activities, including advocacy. The following key global advocacy achievements occurred during the year.. The Leprosy Mission attended the UN'S CRPD Conference. where Ana Ivonia was the co-chair of a roundtable discussion on 'reaching underrepresented groups of persons with disabilities,. Ivonia is a young leader of an Organisation of Persons Affected by Leprosy in Timor-Leste. In a meeling of many diplomats and civil society activists giving policy messages, Ivonia's speech stood out because of its raw power. Through lears she told Ihe gathered dignitaries of her experience with leprosy and closed with a powerful message for change. Also at the CRPD Conference, TLM hosted a side evenl in partnership with Disabled Peoples, Intemational. The theme was 'Reaching the millions of under-represented people affected by NTDS, and included speeches from across civil society in Ihe NTD sector. TLM'S team was the only one that spoke about the massive ovedap beeen NTDS and disability in the global south. With 1.8bn of the world's poorest people affected by NTDS and 80¥0 of persons with disability living in low income settings, it is wrong for us lo miss this ovedap. TLM'S advocacy is crucial in drawing attention to this. In 2023, the UN renewed the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on discrimination against persons with leprosy (Hansen's disease)- This was a major success and was in part thanks to the advocacy efforts of TLM Member Countries. who spoke to Iheir UN representatives. During the year, TLM Nigeria made a submission to the UN'S Human Rights Council (HRC) as part of the Universal Periodic Review process. Through this prosS. the HRC reviews the human rights situation in all UN countries. The TLM Nigeria submission highlighted the human rights challenges for persons affected by leprosy in Nigeria and made concrete suggestions for improvement. We await the outcome of this process. TLM was involved in developing the NISC tool. {Neglected Tropical Disease Inclusion Scorecard). This tool allows NGOS to establish how effectively their work includes persons affected by NTDS and allows a consistent process of improvement for all NGOS who want to include the voices of persons affected by NTDS through their work. Mathias Duck (tLM Advocacy Lead) VMS one of the key individuals in producing and disseminating this tool.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Where Our Support Comes From Income is received from a variety of sources, with the majority of fijnds raised from individuals (including legacy giving) and Churches across Northem Ireland. Our core supporter base continues to faithfulty prioritise people affected by leprosy in their charitable giving and we continue to extend our sincere thanks to each and everyone. Legacy giving remained over £250,000 last year, however Ihe receipl of 2 large legacies late in Ihe year, December 2023, meant that these critical funds had to be rolled over for disbursement in the next financial year. Funding grants were also received during the year from The Fernanagh Trust and TBF & KL Thompson Trust for work in Nepal. A new grant was also received from The Church of Ireland Bishop's Appeal for the AEP project in Bangladesh. Afler several unsuccessful trust funding applications during ihe year, trustees were delighted to receive notification, in December 2023 of a successful grant awarded from the Mcclay Foundation which will be allocated to project funding in 2024. We pay particular thanks to the Board of Truslees of these Trusts and organisations for their financial support and commitment of our work. As already noled, a funding grant was also received from Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade IDFAT) for 'Dignity First, project in Nepal. A 3 year project 12023-20251 Ihal seeks to improve the health, well-being and dignity of 1,089 people affecled by leprosy and enhance the technical capacity of 90 Government heatth workers and 300 Community Health Volunteers to identify, diagnose, treat, and manage leprosy and complications. General donations (including responses to d1ct marketing appeals) and glfts ceIVed in 2023 saw an increase of £20,000 or 70/0 compared to the previous year 12022.. £380,7821 2023= £405,886). This is largely due to an additional fundraising appeal in Ihe year and increased fundraising events and activities, induding 3 'Tea Parties, in Belfast, Ballymena and Portadown. During ihe year. we also acquired 23 new regular givers giving a total of 216 regular givers in the year. Church giving, which had suffered significanty as a result of the impact of COVID pandemic, increased slightly during the year {£2,0001 and activity remained consistent with the previous year. The Leprosy Mission Norlhem Ireland relies heavity on the commitment and support of over 200 Church Representatives (volunteers) across Northern Ireland who failhfully pray, raise awareness and financial support in local churches, groups and Christian faith based organisations. These Church Representatives are the life blood of all that we do. ensuring that the voice of those affected by leprosy is heard in different locations in Northem Ireland and ensuring those that financially support TLMNI are provided with regular updales about how their giving is helping to transform lives every day. Unfortunately, Ihe impact of Ihe pandemic which saw a decline in church attendance in some local congregalions has continued to be felt in 2023 with a number of church leadership vacancies. mid week group closures and aging congregations no longer able lo support as many mission agencies. These external factors have a considerable impact in our work amongst churches in Northem Ireland and is an area of concem for the future as we continue to find meaningful ways to connect and engage with churches. Despite, this difficult environment, trustees are delighted that The Leprosy Mission still holds a special relalionship with over 220 congregations across Northem Ireland who faithfully gave donations during the year. 52 speaking engagements occurred in 2023, consistent with the previous year. Intentional follow up and proactive engagement was also prioritised with over 20 key church partners during the year helping to nourish relationships and keep the need of those affected by leprosy at the fore in busy congregation schedules.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 As well as the circulation of our supporter magazine, INTOUCH, 3 times in 2023 an online Supporter SuNey w8S also delivered which achieved a 20 % response rate {105 respondents) and provided key leamings as we continue to nourish and develop supporter relations. Key findings included.. 1000/0 respondents care about the work of TLM 95°/0 respondents believed that we are effective in achieving our mission 98 % respondents trusted TLM to deliver meaningfvl outcomes for our beneficiaries 97 % respondents believed that TLM used funds appropriatety 99% respondents believed that their support was making a real difference to ending leprosy and helping leprosy affected people Most supporters were motivated to give because they vmnted to provide the cure for leprosy affected people and they wanted to end the injustice caused by the stigma of Ihe disease 20 % of respondents had a conneclion wilh TLM for less than 5 years Slaff and truslees were encouraged by the resulls and look forward to building upon this work in 2024 and 2025. During the past year, the charity conlinued to strengthen online engagement aclivf(ies through active engagement on social media platforms and the creation of videos that could be used lo promote and raise awareness, and to help supporters hear first hand accounts from leprosy affected people and frontline TLM staff. Monthly prayer emails were circulated via email. as well as programme updates from overseas partners and promotion of key supporter events. The charity also held online prayer sessions for supporters during our Global day of prayer in May. Despite efforts, there was a 18 % decrease in visitors lo the website compared to 2022 and a 55 /0 decrease in social media reach, largely due to the change in algorithms which are outside of our control and disadvantage smaller charities with less budget for advertising. Despite this context. we saw a 260A increase in number of online donalions and a 20 % increase in value of online giving. This is an area that we will conlinue to build upon as we seek to raise awareness of those affected by leprosy. remain relevant and connect with new audiences beyond our normal pool of supporters. Financial review The results for the period are set out on pages 20 to 42. The charity retumed net incoming resources of £35,825 12022.. net outgoing resources of £66,636) of which there were unrestricted net incoming resources of £26,164 12022.. net outgoing resources of £241.081) and restricted net incoming resources of £9,661 (2022.. net incoming resources of £174,445). As at 31 Dember 2023. the level of unrestricted reserves held was £788.758, of which £286.600 has been designated by the Board at the year end. In light of the hjndraising challenges faced in rent years. the turbulent economic forecast for 2024 and consistent high levels of legacy giving, over which Iruslees have no influence year on year, the truslees continue to review levels of resetve and designated fvnds position of the charity at the end of 2023.
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 During the year, Trustees reviewed and updated our Reser4es Policy. In calculating our reserves we exclude those funds committed in propety and equipment necessary to undertake our work. The restricted funds are not included in the Trustees, view of reserves. needs because they are held by the charity for only as long as necessary before transfer lo Ihe respeclive project or country. In an uncertain and volatile climate, Trustees are keen to ensure sustainability both localty and globalw, whilst at the same time ensure that fijnds. where possible, are remitted on to overseas projecls as quickly as possible. Capacity conslrainls globally, alongside the receipt of funds lale in the year, have meant that this has been difficult to achieve. However, after a further review of the ReseNes position, Trustees agreed to develop a plan to reduce cash reserves whilst ensuring that sufficient reserves are in place as per good practice guidelines for both operational and project commitments. Funding commitments for leprosy programmes are made to global partners in advance of the funding being received in any financial year. Commitments are based upon a financial review of projected income and expenses and planned fundraising activitie5 during the year. The Trustees have retained the charity's programme reserve at 25Q/o of normal funding commitments for the purpose of honouring any agreed funding commitments and to have an appropriate amount of match funding in place as part of our commttmenls for Dignty First project in Nepal 2023-2025. Reserves will be kept under review as per nomial financial monitoring procedures. At the end of the year, it was agreed that the legacy reseNe fund would be increased by £30,000 in line wilh our 2024 budget and Ihat funds of £10,000 would also be designated for Ethiopia in 2024 given project delays in 2023. As part of our good govemance. Trustees regularly review the charity's risk register to assess any risks to which the charity may be exposed. in particular those related to safeguarding, global programme operations. the potential loss of income slreams and ensuring compliance with regulalors and stsndards of best practice. A separale Safeguarding Risk Register, developed in 2021 as part of the roll out of updated safeguarding policy and procedures, continues to be reviewed on a quartety basis. Trustees are satisfied that systems are in pla to mitigate exposure lo the major risks, including any new risks Ihal have been caused by the global economic downturn. Board members. as part of board meeting proceedings. have as a standing agenda item the requirement to disclose any conflict of interesl when discussing the Charity's business agenda. Truslees, in partnership wilh other global TLM national offices. ensure that any harm that may flow froffl rts activities is mitigated through agreed global policies and safeguarding arrangements. Plans for future periods Our Global Slralegy. 2019-2024, oullines the long term change we want lo see as well as the priorities thal we will focus on globalty. It is centred on Christ, with the main priority of reducing transmission as we work towards our long term goal of zero leprosy transmission by 2035. This links in with our Iwo other focus areas of zero disability and zero discrimination. In 2023. TLM Global Fellowship began the prOsS of developing a new global strategy. For the first time, TLM started this process by approaching the leaders of Organisations of Persons Affected by Leprosy to consult Ihem on their desires for Ihis new strategy. All TLM members, and key extemal partners, were also consulted for input. The consultation and development prOsS are ongoing and will be finalised in 2024, which will also mark the 150 year anniversary of The Leprosy Mission. Given this significant mileslone, a number of engagement activities {globally and locally) will be planned to give thanks for all that has been achieved in 150 years of the mission and for God's faithfijlness throughout the years. This anniversary year will also be used as a launchpad to engage new audiences towards greater heights as we seek to see an end to leprosy once and for all. In 2023, the Board of Trustees conducled a mid temi strategic review of perfom)ance and progress againsl agreed key perft)rmance indicators IKPIS) in our strategy, It's Time to Make Leprosy a Thing of the Past, 2021-25. Given the impact of the COVID pandemic and the challenging economic climate since the commencemenl of our strategy, some downward revisions were made to acquisttion and supporter retention targets. These changes do not reflect a change in our vision, detemiination and drive but to the increasingty challenging conte* in which we are operating wilhin as we seek to engage with new audiences and increase income. In 2024, we will continue lo invest to strengthen relationships with our current supporter base and invest in the acquisition of new donors in 2024 as well as aclivety contribute towards Ihe development of a new global strategy. The Leprosy Mission Northem Ireland, in 2024, will plan to continue to support programmes and projects in India, Nepal, Nigeria, Bangladesh and Ethiopia with an increasing focus on prioritising more funding on projects Ihal work towards our global strategic goals of zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination with a particular focus on research lo see an end to leprosy. Further local research and relationship building with local trusts and grant providers will occur, as well as collaborative working with other TLM members to maximise on any opportunities to apply for project funding in support of the three Zero's. 10-
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Slructure. governance and management The charitable company is a company limited by guarantee. registration number Nl 640401 and is a charity registered in Northem Ireland, registration NIC 106322. The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law. and who served during the year and up to the date of Signatu of the financial statements were= Mr M Noble Mrs F Davidson {Chairl Mr T Doran Mr J Caples {Honorary Treasurer) Miss J Carson Miss H Johnston Mr R Marshall Rev P Hilton Ms J Willcocks (Appointed 22 May 2023) (Appointed 22 May 2023) 4 Trustee meetings occurred online during the year. utilising Zoom, Trustees meeting in person for supporter engagement events and safeguarding training during the year. All company directors have confimied their willingness and eligibility lo acl as a 01ctor and have declared Ihat they do not have any conflicl of interesl in doing so. There are no related parties or significant interest to be noted. None of the Trustees have any beneficial inlerest in the charitable company. All of the Trustees are members of the company and guarantee lo contribute £1 in the event of the company winding up. Trustees are unpaid and are not remunerated for their trusteeship. New Truslees are recruited as per the Memorandum and Articles of Association. In 2023. the G0Veman & Nominations committee met lce to continue the recruitment and selection of new trustees work that had commenced, late 2022. This resulled in the election of2 new Trustees at ourAGM in May 2023. During the year the Finance & Audit Committee also met 4 times and the Supporter Engagement committee mel three times. All sub-committees. as delegated sub-groups of Ihe Board of Trustees are made up of staff and members of the Board to further agree work items in each of these respective areas and to report back to the Board of Trustees for review and fvrther action. Jo-Anne Thompson (Head of Resource Development, TLM Inlemational} and Stuart Towell (Campaigns & Supporter Experien Manager. TLM Great Britain) are also co-opted members of the Supporter Engagement Sub-committee to strengthen and bring expertise to the committee as we seek to recruit additional members with fundraising expertise. Governance & Nominations Sub-committee." Mr Tom Doran Mrs Fiona Davidson (Chair) Mrs Joanne Briggs Finan¢e & Audit sUcOMMIttee." Mr Jim Caples, Hon. Treasurer {Chair) Mrs Fiona Davidson Mr Mark Noble Mrs Joanne Briggs Mrs Joy Jamieson 11
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Supporter Engagen7ent Sutscommittee Mis5 Judith Carson (Chairl Mr Roy Marshall Mrs Joanne Briggs Mrs Hazel Coulter Mr Stephen Mccartney Mrs Jo-Anne Thompson {TLMI Head of Resour Development) Mr Stuart Towell {TLMGB Campaigns & Supporter Experience Manager) The Board of Trustees is responsible for the review of all actrvities, approval of budgets and future strategy. They undertake a full programme of Board strategic and governance activty induding regular reviews. The National Director has delegated responsibility for all operational matters including the management of the staff team, programmes and budgets. The charity currentty employs 3 full time and 3 part time members of staff. During the year, fixed lerm contracts for Ihe roles of Communications Officer (Digttal) and Programme Funding Officer were strategically reviewed, including an anatysis of retum on investment. Following the comprehensive review. the Board agreed to extend Ihe Programme Funding officer role for a further 2 years until August 2025, in line wilh our current funding commitments with Irish Aid. In a difficult economic climate, the role of Communications Officer (Digitall was made redundant and a new role. Supporter Engagement offir, was developed to divert capacity and resources to areas which increased fundraising opporlunllies and yielded a better return on investmenl, for example in-person supporter engagement meetings and fundraising events. This role was offered and accepted as allernative employment by Communications Officer (Digilal) for 12 monlhs, until August 2024 and will be reviewed again by Trustees in Q1, 2024. During the pasl year. the Board approved a number of updated or new policies and procedures including an Extemal Audit Policy, Travel & subsisten Policy, Business Continuity Policy, Statement of Reserved Matters & Delegated Authorities, Bullying & Harassment Policy, Whistleblowing Policy, Appraisav Slaff Development Policy and statement on SUcsSion Planning. Recommendations. following FIRENI audit in autumn 2022, were a150 implemented in 2023 as well as the tender for audit & accountancy services given that our current contract with GMCG Accountants had expired following the completion of 2022 Audil. TLM Global Fellowship Member review was also conducted during the year- this is one part of the accountability commitments that Members of the Global Fellowship have made when signing the TLM Charter. Any recommendations following the audit review were actioned by the end of the year. At the end of 2023. all staff participated in TLM Global staff engagement suNey with high results achieved across all areas and all respondents reporting that they would willingly recommend TLM as a good place to work. Resulls will be further reviewed in 2024 and plans pul in place lo fvrther strengthen and develop the current staff team. particulady in areas of well being and workl lrfe balance. Safeguarding Globally, The Leprosy Mission expects the highest standards of professional Practi in all our work and contact wilh people particulady with children, young people and vulnerable adulls. We are committed lo safeguarding children and vulnerable adulls from ham and ensuring their rights to proleclion are realised. In 2023, global safeguarding policies and procedures continued to be rolled out across the organisation with any concems or reported global cases being deall with as per our produre$. A named Trustee, appointed in 2021 to support the National Director, with safeguarding matters remains in pla. and ensures Ihal the Board is fully updated as required. Safeguarding remains a standing agenda item for all Board and staff meetings and quarterly reports are also submitted to TLM Inlemational. Staff & Trustee training on safeguarding matters was delivered in October 2023, with a number of areas highlighted for fijrther development. These will be actioned in Q2 & Q3 in 2024. Key Management Personnel Remuneration The pay of the charity's National Director is linked to the National Joinl Council INJC) scales and reviewed annually by the remuneration committee as part of Finance and Audit's Committee's responsibility. The remuneration is benchmarked with olher charities of a similar operating size and activity to ensure that pay awards sel are fair and not out of line with that generalty paid for similar roles and level of responsibilities. The Board of Trustees wish to express their sincere thanks to the National Director for her leadership over the past year and to the whole stsff leam for Iheir flexible working, commitment and unstinting efforts to ensure the ongoing operations of the charity in 2023 and for all that Ihey do to help make leprosy a thing of the past. 12-
THE LEPROSY MISSION NORTHERN IRELAND TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Slatement of trustees. responsibilities The trustees, who are also the directors of The Leprosy Mission Northem Ireland for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Truslees, Report and the financial ststements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards {Uniled Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company Law requires the trustees to prepare financial slatemenls for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming reSoUrS and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year. In preparing these financial statements. the trustees are required to= select suitable accounting policies and then appty them consistentty.. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2019 {FRS 1021., make judgements and eslimates thal are reasonable and prudent., state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in Ihe financial slatements.. and prepare the financial slatements on the going Conrn basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in operation. The Iruslees are responsible for keeping adequale accounting records thal disclose with reasonable accuracy al any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply wilh the Companies Acl 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding Ihe assels of Ihe charilable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Auditor In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that GMCG LISBURN be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting. Disclosure of infonnation to auditor Each of the trustees has confimied that there is no infomiation of which they are aware which is relevant to the audil, bul of which the audilor is unaware. They have further confimied that they have taken appropriale steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information. The trustees. report was authorised and approved by the Board of Trustees. Mrs F Davidson (Chairl Trustee 14 June 2024 13-