AGM/ANNUAL REPORT

Annual Report 23/24

Mission Statement

“To connect individuals and communities to lifelong learning, and realisation of personal goals, in a comfortable, safe environment, with guidance and support. We are committed to excellence in training and personal development, irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity, religion or ability.”

Chairpersons Report

I am very proud to be a part of Atlas, along with my fellow board members who have been a great support to me over the past 12 months.

Myself and the board would like to thank our many funders, staff, volunteers, supporters, facilitators, partner organisations and of course our centre users for their continued support and hard work throughout the year.

We would like to recognise Carol Williams and Kayleigh Clarke who stepped down from the board in 2023 – thanks for your amazing input, dedication and many hours volunteering throughout the years.

I will work hard over the coming year to ensure Atlas continues to provide an invaluable service to the local community.

Ann Johnston

A Royal Celebration

For the King's Coronation & The King's Coronation Quiz

Treasurers Report

Income

Restricted Grants received: £268,199

This helped towards running costs, core costs,

running activities and programme over the year.

Unrestricted Income: £93,179

£35,381 Mayors Charity 2023-2024

£57,798 through fundraising, room hire, café sales

Expenditure:

£384,803 on salaries, programme and running costs

The net asset position of the charity is strong and our long-term aim is to accumulate 6 months running costs.

Balance £23,425

The Financial Statement has been approved and the accounts signed off by our Independent Financial Examiner, Billy Drake Lynn Drake & Co.

Please see accounts for full breakdown, copies available upon request

Scott Carson presenting £35,381 to our chairperson.

A massive thanks form all the team.

An amazing group of women, men and children singing & signing and strumming the ukulele and performing together for fun.

4 performances in 5 months

Atlas Creche

Atlas Creche is run by dedicated staff and is available to parents attending classes, counselling, services to promote health and wellbeing, enhance skills, education, personal and professional development.

Proud Winners of

Community Group Awards at

The Mayor’s Community Awards 2024

Because of free, accessible childcare the parents attended:

Literacy
Numeracy
ESOL
Parenting
Improving Mental Health
Building Confidence
Employability Skills
Mas Maternal Advocacy Support
Women Breaking Barriers
Art & Crafts
Relaxation & Mindfulness
Benefits Information & Advice
Focus Groups & Feedback Groups
Lobbying Activities
Community Engagement Sessions
Incredible Years
Princes Trust Programme
Healthy Relationships
Overcoming Stress & Anxiety
Home Cooking, Gardening & Growing

ANNUAL REPORT CARD LINK

Vice Chairpersons Report

As Vice Chair it has been a privilege to support Ann who has embraced the role of Chairperson. I aim to continue to offer my support to Ann in the coming year, working closely with all the committee ensuring we comply with Atlas policies & procedures, governing bodies and charity regulations.

In my role as Vice Chair I now have the time and opportunity to welcome and support new referrals to the centre, making their first step into Atlas feel safe, warm & welcoming.

I am looking forward to the year ahead and hope I can make a difference, even in the smallest way

Elizabeth Docherty

Donations from Moira Hygiene Bank,

Lisburn Food Bank, Toys for Joy,

Lagan Valley Vineyard Church, Spar Lambeg

helped support all centre users.

Secretary’s Report

This is my first year as secretary for Atlas. It has been a productive and

successful year working with an enthusiastic committee.

We have held monthly meetings since our last AGM and they have all been very well attended.

There is a mixed knowledge and inventiveness among the committee which makes my job considerably easy.

Working with Ann our new Chairperson has been fun as my message to her is always ‘slow down Ann’.

We look forward to the coming year with our vocal enthusiasm as new events and visits unfold.

I thank Gay, Mandy and all the team for all their support throughout the year – always finding a solution to any problem.

Eileen Irvine

Women Breaking Barriers Project Partner

Providing opportunities and removing barriers to enhance women’s

employability prospects.

A Royal Recognition

Gay and Mandy were invited to Hillsborough Castle, to meet and chat with The Queen,

A rememberable acknowledgement for all the work and services provided within Atlas Centre.

Atlas Cafe & Garden

The garden space is used by café customers, a space learning, relaxing or playing with your children.

Well done and thanks to our customers, staff and volunteers for helping us pick the colour scheme and furniture in the Atlas Cafe.

Offering a relaxing, safe space to enjoy a cuppa and a light snack in the cosy café or in the beautiful garden at the back of the centre.

“The menu is affordable, simple and tasty.” - Centre User

The Mas project (Maternal Advocacy and Support) provides maternal mental health support to women who are pregnant and/ or who have children up to the age of 3.

Parents who use the creche facility, raised their voices, shared their very personal stories and lived experiences to help Save The Pathways Fund.

Parents created an Atlas Centre Information Booklet

When attending The Community Impact Programme

AGM/ANNUAL REPORT

Annual Report 23/24

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