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← Dance Associate Ltd

2025-04-05-annual-report

DANCE ASSOCIATE LTD

(A private company Limited by Guarantee and not having Share Capital, and a registered charity)

Registered in Northern Ireland Charity Registration Number: NIC106918 Company Registration Number: NI612228

Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 05 April 2025

Period of Accounts

Start date: 06 April 2024 End date: 05 April 2025

Contents

Introduction .............................................................................................................. 2 Executive Summary ................................................................................................. 3 Legal and Administrative Information ……………………………..…………………. 4 Director’s Annual Report ......................................................................................... 5 Charitable Purposes ............................................................................................. 5-6 Company's Objects ……………………………………………………...………………6-7 Public Benefit Statement ......................................................................................... 7 Achievements in the Year ................................................................................... 8-11 Financial Review ............................................................................................... 11-13 Structure, Governance and Management ....................................................... 12-18 Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities ........................................................ 19-20 Independent Examiner ........................................................................................... 19 Small Company Provisions ................................................................................... 20 Independent Examiner’s Statement ................................................................. 21-21 Statement of Financial Activities ………………………………………………………23 Balance Sheet ………………………….………………...………………………….……24 Notes Forming Part of the Financial Statements ………………………………25-27

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Introduction

As we reflect on the past year, it is clear that Dance Associate Ltd has entered a period of consolidation, focus and purposeful growth. Following a time of significant challenge across the arts sector, this year has been defined by steady delivery, strengthened relationships, and a renewed confidence in our strategic direction.

Building on the foundations laid in previous years, Dance Associate has continued to serve as a vital centre for dance participation, artistic development and community engagement across Northern Ireland and beyond. While the external environment remains demanding, the organisation has responded with resilience, creativity and careful stewardship, ensuring that access to high-quality dance opportunities remains at the heart of everything we do.

This year marked an important transition from strategic planning into active implementation. With a clear five-year vision now guiding our work, Dance Associate has focused on delivering meaningful programmes, supporting artists and young people, and preparing the organisation for long-term sustainability.

I would like to thank our Board, staff, artists, volunteers, participants, funders and partners for their continued commitment and belief in the value of our work. Together, we are ensuring that Dance Associate remains a trusted, inclusive and forward-looking organisation, enriching lives through dance.

Peter Shannon

Chair

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Executive Summary

The year under review represents a period of stability and measured progress for Dance Associate Ltd. Operating within an ongoing context of financial pressure across the arts and voluntary sectors, the organisation maintained its core programmes while strengthening its operational foundations and preparing for future growth.

Dance Associate continued to deliver accessible, inclusive and high-quality dance activity for children, young people, adults and older participants, engaging communities across Newry, Mourne and Down, as well as extending its reach through cross-border and sectoral initiatives. Participation remained broad and intergenerational, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to equality of access and lifelong engagement with the arts.

Alongside programme delivery, significant progress was made in developing new strategic initiatives designed to diversify income, strengthen sector leadership and enhance long-term sustainability. These initiatives, including the Dance Industry Awards and plans for an island-wide dance festival, represent a natural evolution of Dance Associate’s role within the wider dance ecology.

Governance and financial oversight remained robust throughout the year, with the Board closely monitoring risk, expenditure and reserves while supporting the Executive team to balance ambition with realism. The organisation remains committed to responsible financial management, transparency and public benefit.

Looking ahead, Dance Associate is well positioned to build on this year’s progress, deepen its impact, and continue contributing positively to the cultural, social and creative life of the communities it serves.

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Legal and Administrative Information

Directors and Trustees: Peter Shannon (Chair) Dominic Moore Malcolm Dibb Victoria Campbell Secretary: Vladimir Samsonik Registered Address: 52 Mill Street Newry County Down UK/Northern Ireland BT34 1AG

Company Registration Number: NI612228 Charity Registration Number: NIC106918

Accountant: Stuart Davis Associates UK Ltd Bank Chambers St Petersgate Stockport SK1 1AR

Independent Examiner:

Paul Voltzenlogel 9 Queens Court Haywards Heath RH16 1RJ

Bankers:

HSBC UK 25-29 Royal Avenue Belfast BT1 1FB

Key Management Personnel: Nina Shannon - Executive & Artistic Director Victoria Campbell - Youth Coordinator

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Directors’ Annual Report for the year ended 31 March 2025

The Trustees (who are also Directors for company law purposes) have pleasure in submitting their Annual Report and financial statements of the company for the year ending 5[th] April 2025.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the Charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016)

Charitable Purposes

Dance Associate Ltd is a voluntary organisation based in Northern Ireland, dedicated to addressing social welfare through performing and creative arts. By providing opportunities for recreation and leisure activities, the organisation aims to enhance the quality of life and well-being of people across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Dance Associate Ltd operates as a company limited by guarantee and is a registered charity in Northern Ireland. Additionally, it is a registered non-profit company in the Republic of Ireland, with an application currently submitted to the Irish Charity Regulator to attain charitable status.

The objective is to provide equality of opportunity to those who have otherwise been marginalised from mainstream arts provision. Dance Associate Limited seeks to enhance public knowledge of the cultural and educational value of arts in all their aspects through the management of events for public performance and the showcasing of performing and creative arts.

Dance Associate Limited promotes, maintains, and improves performing and creative arts education, particularly through the production of workshops, performances, and the encouragement of various arts forms, including contemporary dance, drama,

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mime, singing, and music. This includes the development, preparation, and establishment of projects to:

Dance Associate Ltd is not limited in the art form used by and for people for artistic expression. The organisation aims to encourage appreciation for and participation in the arts by providing educational performing and creative arts projects, information, and training, as well as classes, workshops, arts facilities and equipment, support and instruction, and the organisation of showcases of works and events.

The company’s Objects

To support and develop a vibrant performing and creative arts ecology in Northern Ireland which will encourage people of Northern Ireland of all ages to participate in and appreciate performing arts and introduce people to culture with the objective of improving their conditions of life and well-being and in particular: -

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(a) to promote, maintain and improve performing arts education particularly through the production of workshops, performances and the encouragement of the arts including contemporary dance, drama, mime, singing and music

(b) to foster, promote and advance preparation and establishment of projects and events in partnership with similar artistic organisations

(c) to promote education and training in performing and creative arts and related subjects particularly for children, young people, elderly people, and others who, for whatever reason, may be considered excluded from society

(d) to advance performing and creative arts through the provision of training, career advice, coaching and continuing professional development for performing and creative arts practitioners and organisations upon terms appropriate to their means and in such other ways as the directors shall in their absolute discretion determine

(e) to encourage appreciation for and participation in the performing and creative arts in all its aspects through the provision of affordable facilities, resources, training and such other services appropriate for the creation, production, performance and appreciation of the performing and creative art forms; and

(f) to advance and raise the profile of performing and creative art forms through the promotion of artistic collaborations and fostering of partnerships with similar artistic organisations involving activities such as workshops and trips to theatrical performances.

Public Benefit Statement

Charity trustees are obligated to formulate strategic plans to guarantee the provision of public benefit and the accomplishment of objectives outlined in our governing document. These objectives align with the purposes stipulated by the Charities Act 2011. When assessing our aims and objectives and planning future activities, we have consulted the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland’s general guidance on public benefit. Specifically, the trustees evaluate how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives they have established.

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Achievements in the Year

Participation, Access and Community Engagement

Participation and inclusion remained central to Dance Associate’s work throughout the year. The organisation delivered a diverse programme of classes, workshops, camps and community activities, welcoming participants from early childhood through to older adulthood.

Dance Associate continued to prioritise:

Seasonal programmes, including holiday schemes and intensive workshops, remained a cornerstone of engagement, offering creative, safe and supportive environments for young people and families. Studio-based activity continued to provide regular opportunities for skill development, creative expression and connection, reinforcing Dance Associate’s role as a welcoming and inclusive community hub.

Youth Work and Development

Supported through ongoing relationships with statutory and local partners, Dance Associate sustained its commitment to youth work and creative development. Programmes were designed to nurture confidence, leadership and self-expression, using dance as a tool for personal and social development.

Youth-focused initiatives provided:

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The organisation continued to adapt delivery models to ensure young people could engage meaningfully, regardless of background or experience, reinforcing Dance Associate’s public benefit mission.

Artistic Development and Support for Artists

Artistic development remained a key priority, with Dance Associate supporting emerging and local artists through mentoring, rehearsal space, creative opportunities and professional guidance.

Programmes such as choreographic development initiatives and open creative platforms allowed participants and artists to:

By offering practical support and space for experimentation, Dance Associate contributed to a healthier local creative ecology and strengthened relationships within the dance community.

Strategic Initiatives and Sector Development

During the year, Dance Associate continued to advance major strategic initiatives designed to enhance sector visibility, collaboration and sustainability. Planning and development work progressed on:

While not all initiatives were fully realised within the reporting period, this groundwork represents a significant investment in the future impact and reach of the organisation.

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Governance, Management and Sustainability

Dance Associate Ltd continued to operate with strong governance and clear accountability. The Board of Trustees provided oversight and strategic guidance, ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations while supporting the organisation’s long-term vision.

Financial management remained cautious and responsible, reflecting the ongoing challenges facing the sector. The Board and management team worked collaboratively to:

The implementation of the five-year Strategic Plan provided a clear framework for decision-making, aligning artistic ambition with operational capacity and financial reality.

Looking Ahead

As Dance Associate looks to the coming year, the focus will be on consolidation, growth and deepening impact. Priorities include:

In an uncertain environment, Dance Associate remains committed to adaptability, collaboration and care, ensuring that dance continues to be a powerful force for creativity, connection and wellbeing.

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Closing Statement

Dance Associate Ltd would like to express sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to the organisation’s work during the year. From participants and families to artists, staff, volunteers, funders and partners, your support makes our work possible.

Together, we continue to build an organisation rooted in creativity, inclusion and community, one that believes in the transformative power of dance and its ability to enrich lives.

Financial Review

Income and Expenditure

Income for the year ending 5[th] April 2025 totalled £58,607 (2024: £41,594). Expenditure for the year totalled £61,158 (2024: £46,376), resulting in a deficit of £2,551 (2024: deficit of £4,782).

Dance Associate Ltd received 2 income grants during the period, totalling £7,398 (2024: no grants) These grants were entirely spent in the period.

During the year, Dance Associate Ltd invested £1,904 into fixed assets (2024: £0).

Funds Position

At the end of the period, Dance Associate Ltd.'s reserve balance totalled £2,859 (2024: £5,410). All funds are unrestricted. Of this, Fixed Asset values represented £8,972 (2024: £14,394) leaving a negative Free Reserve balance of £6,113 (2024: negative balance of £8,984).

Reserves Policy

The trustees have reviewed the organisation’s reserves policy during the reporting period. Dance Associate Ltd aims to hold reserves equivalent to approximately three months of non-variable operating expenditure. These costs represent the unavoidable expenses required to sustain the organisation’s core operations, including premises,

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utilities and essential overheads. At the end of the reporting period, this level was calculated at approximately £3,250.

As outlined in the financial statements, the charity’s Free Reserves remain in a negative position at the year end. While this indicates that reserves are currently below the target level, the trustees are encouraged by the progress made in improving the organisation’s overall financial position when compared with previous years.

The Board recognises that rebuilding reserves remains a priority and continues to take a cautious and strategic approach to financial management. Active measures are in place to strengthen financial resilience over the medium term, including careful cost control, diversification of income streams and the phased development of strategic initiatives. The trustees remain confident that these actions will support the gradual restoration of reserves while ensuring the continued delivery of the charity’s core activities.

Going Concern

Dance Associate Ltd has developed a comprehensive five-year Strategic Plan covering the period 2024–2029, which provides a clear and realistic framework for organisational growth, sustainability and adaptation within an evolving and challenging arts environment. The plan aligns the organisation’s artistic, educational and operational objectives while retaining flexibility to respond to fluctuations in income and external conditions.

In assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, the trustees have considered current and projected financial performance, available resources, and the measures in place to manage risk and expenditure. The organisation continues to operate with careful financial oversight, supported by active cost control, phased programme delivery and the development of new income-generating and sector-led initiatives.

While the wider funding environment remains uncertain, the trustees believe that the strategic actions underway, combined with prudent financial management and ongoing monitoring, provide a reasonable expectation that Dance Associate Ltd will

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continue to meet its obligations as they fall due. Accordingly, the financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

Structure, Governance and Management

Legal Status and Organisation

Dance Associate Ltd is a private company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 16 April 2012 and registered in Northern Ireland under company number NI612228 . On 1 April 2019, the company became a registered charity with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland (charity registration number NIC106918 ). The organisation operates in accordance with its Articles of Association, which were adopted on 19 January 2019.

Dance Associate Ltd is governed by a Board of Trustees who are responsible for the overall strategic direction, governance and oversight of the organisation. The Board works closely with the Executive team to promote good governance, adhere to best practice, and ensure effective communication across all levels of the organisation. This collaborative approach supports informed decision-making and enables the organisation to manage its strategic objectives efficiently and effectively.

Board of Trustees

During the reporting period, the following trustees held office:

Management Board

The Management Board consists of four directors responsible for overseeing the Charity’s operations. Delegated authority for day-to-day operations rests with Nina Shannon, Executive and Artistic Director, Victoria Campbell, Youth Coordinator, and Vladimir Samsonik , Marketing Support. Together, they are responsible for financial

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management, programme delivery, strategic implementation and the effective day-today running of the organisation.

New trustees undergo a structured induction programme, including guidance on legal obligations, the Charity’s governance framework and operational processes. This ensures that all trustees are equipped to fulfil their responsibilities effectively and in line with best practice.

During the 2024–2025 reporting period, no new trustees were appointed. However, recognising the organisation’s evolving strategic priorities and expanding scope of activity, Dance Associate Ltd has identified the appointment of additional directors as a key governance priority for the forthcoming period. Plans are in place to strengthen the Board through targeted recruitment, ensuring an appropriate balance of skills, experience and sector expertise to support the organisation’s next phase of development.

Related Parties and Co-operation with Other Organisations

None of the Trustees received remuneration or other benefits from their role with the Charity during the reporting period, except as disclosed below. Any connection between a trustee, director or senior member of staff and a contracted supplier is required to be declared to the full Management Board and managed in accordance with the organisation’s conflict of interest procedures. No undisclosed related party transactions occurred during the year.

During the reporting period, Victoria Campbell , a trustee of the Charity, undertook freelance work for Dance Associate Ltd in a separate professional capacity. In respect of this work, Victoria Campbell received total remuneration of £6,959 . The Board confirms that this arrangement was disclosed, appropriately managed, and conducted in line with the Charity’s governance policies and best practice.

Risk Management: Addressing Challenges and Securing the Future

The Board of Trustees has undertaken a comprehensive review of the principal risks facing Dance Associate Ltd. This assessment encompasses operational, financial and strategic considerations, with particular attention given to funding uncertainty, changes

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in the economic environment and the evolving landscape of the arts sector. These risks are regularly reviewed to ensure that appropriate systems, controls and mitigating actions are in place.

In response to these challenges, Dance Associate Ltd has developed a forwardlooking Strategic Plan for the period 2024–2029. This plan builds on the achievements of the previous strategic cycle (2019–2024), during which a number of key objectives were successfully delivered. The current plan provides a clear framework to support organisational stability while enabling measured growth, innovation and sector leadership.

Central to the Strategic Plan is Dance Associate’s continued commitment to its artistled ethos, with creativity remaining the driving force behind all programmes and initiatives. By aligning artistic vision with strategic and operational planning, the organisation ensures that its mission to empower communities through dance remains central to decision-making and delivery.

In recognising the increasingly challenging economic context, the Board has identified a number of key priorities aimed at strengthening organisational resilience, including:

As part of its commitment to good governance, the Board continues to monitor risks on an ongoing basis and to adapt strategies in response to emerging challenges. Through careful planning, strong oversight and a clear focus on sustainability, creativity and community impact, Dance Associate Ltd is well positioned to navigate uncertainty and continue delivering meaningful public benefit in the years ahead.

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Staff: Cultivating Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion

Dance Associate Ltd is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive working environment that upholds the principles of equality, diversity and respect. As an equal opportunities’ employer, the organisation seeks to ensure that recruitment, employment practices and workplace culture are fair, transparent and reflective of these core values.

The organisation’s Equal Opportunities Policy provides a clear framework for promoting inclusivity and good practice across all areas of operation. This policy is aligned with current equality legislation and is regularly reviewed to ensure compliance with legal requirements while also supporting a culture that values diversity and difference.

Dance Associate Ltd is committed to identifying and addressing barriers that may prevent underrepresented groups from accessing employment opportunities within the arts sector. While the organisation actively seeks to employ individuals with disabilities wherever practicable, it is acknowledged that, at the end of the reporting period, there were no disabled members of staff. The organisation remains proactive in reviewing its practices and exploring partnerships and approaches that may enhance accessibility and inclusion in the future.

By embracing diversity, Dance Associate aims to cultivate a workplace that reflects the communities it serves. This commitment supports a creative, dynamic and responsive organisational culture, enriching artistic practice and strengthening the organisation’s capacity to deliver meaningful public benefit. The Board of Trustees and leadership team continue to prioritise equality and inclusion, embedding these principles across all levels of the organisation.

Fundraising Activities: Sourcing Support with Purpose

Fundraising remains an important element of Dance Associate Ltd’s operations, supporting the delivery of services that align with the organisation’s charitable objectives. The organisation adopts a considered and purpose-led approach to

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fundraising, focusing on building meaningful and transparent relationships with supporters through its artistic, educational and community-based work.

Dance Associate Ltd does not engage external fundraising agencies. Instead, fundraising activity is rooted in direct engagement with audiences, participants, partners and stakeholders. This approach ensures that fundraising activity remains authentic, proportionate and reflective of the organisation’s values, while also strengthening trust and long-term engagement with supporters.

Fundraising during the reporting period included the use of digital platforms such as Easyfundraising , enabling supporters to contribute to the organisation while shopping online. While the income generated through such platforms is modest, it represents a valuable supplementary source of support and contributes to the organisation’s ability to sustain and develop its programmes.

Looking ahead, Dance Associate Ltd remains committed to exploring ethical, innovative and community-focused fundraising approaches that are appropriate to the scale and nature of the organisation. All fundraising activity is designed to ensure that contributions directly support the charity’s mission to foster creativity, inclusivity and artistic excellence.

Political Donations: A Neutral Stance

Dance Associate Ltd maintains a clear commitment to political impartiality. During the reporting period, the organisation made no political donations. This approach ensures that the charity remains focused on its core mission and operates independently of any political affiliation or influence.

This neutral stance reflects the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and its responsibility to serve a diverse range of communities without bias.

Additional Information: Compliant and Approved

This Annual Report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions set out in Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 and in line with applicable charity reporting requirements.

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The report was approved by the Board of Directors at a meeting held on December 2025 and is signed on behalf of the Board.

Signed on behalf of the Board

Name: Peter Shannon

Status: Chair

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