Bluebell Trust
Trustee Annual Report 2025
1. Introduction
The Trustees of the Bluebell Trust are pleased to present the Annual Report for the year ending 31[st] March 2025.
The Trust continues to work in partnership with Primary schools across the Craigavon area to support children and families experiencing financial hardship.
Our core mission is to reduce barriers to education and wellbeing by providing practical, timely and compassionate support. Through collaboration with local schools, we ensure that assistance reaches those most in need in a respectful and dignified manner.
2. Aims and Objectives
The Bluebell Trust aims to:
-
Support children and families facing financial hardship
-
Promote inclusion and equal access to education
-
Improve the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of children
-
Work in partnership with schools to identify and respond to need
-
Provide early intervention to prevent challenges from escalating
3. Activities and Achievements
Over the past year, the Bluebell Trust has delivered a wide range of supports across Portadown, Craigavon, Lurgan and Banbridge.
Key Activities Include:
-
Funding school uniforms for children in need
-
Covering costs for school trips and residentials
-
Paying for swimming lessons, ensuring access to essential life skills
-
Supplying toys and resources to nursery and special educational needs schools
-
• Delivering crisis support to families facing urgent challenges
Seasonal Support:
-
Distribution of winter packs, including coats, hats, scarves, gloves, blankets and fleecy pyjamas
-
Provision of Christmas gifts to over 80 children, ensuring inclusion during the festive period
4. Impact
The Bluebell Trust has made a significant positive impact on children, families and schools within the local community.
Outcomes Achieved:
-
Increased school participation and attendance
-
Improved confidence and self-esteem among children
-
Reduced financial pressure on families
-
Enhanced access to educational and social opportunities
-
Strengthened relationships between schools and families
Through early identification of need and timely intervention, the Trust has helped prevent issues from escalating and supported the long-term wellbeing of children and families.
5. Working in Partnership
Collaboration remains central to the success of the Bluebell Trust. Strong relationships with local Primary schools enable effective identification of need and targeted support.
We also engage with the wider community through seasonal initiatives and local support, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and community spirit. Where appropriate, we work alongside other organisations to ensure families receive holistic and joined-up support.
6. Financial Overview
The Bluebell Trust continues to operate through a combination of:
-
Community fundraising
-
Donations
-
Local support and partnerships
Funds are carefully managed to ensure maximum impact, with resources directed towards those most in need. The Trustees remain committed to transparency and accountability in all financial matters.
7. Challenges
While the Trust has achieved significant impact, challenges remain:
-
Increasing demand for support due to rising living costs
-
Balancing available resources with growing need
-
Seasonal pressures placing additional strain on families
Despite these challenges, the Trust has continued to respond flexibly and effectively.
8. Future Plans
The Bluebell Trust is committed to:
-
Expanding partnerships with additional schools
-
Developing preventative support initiatives
-
Increasing community engagement and awareness
-
Strengthening collaboration with local organisations
-
Ensuring long-term sustainability through fundraising and partnerships
9. Governance
The Bluebell Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees who oversee the strategic direction, financial management and compliance of the organisation.
Trustees meet regularly to review progress, ensure accountability and guide the ongoing development of the Trust.
10. Conclusion
The Trustees would like to thank all schools, partners, volunteers and supporters who have contributed to the continued success of the Bluebell Trust.
Through collective effort and strong community partnerships, we have made a meaningful difference to the lives of children and families across the Craigavon area. We remain committed to building on this work in the year ahead.
Signed on behalf of the Trustees:
Name: Maxine Chambers
_________ Position: Chairperson Date: 31/03/25