Charity registration number NIC100849 (Northern Ireland)
Company registration number NI622215
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION
Trustees
Mr R McFadden
Ms D McNally
Mr S McVitte
Mr J Lilly
(Appointed 19 June 2024)
Dr M McFeeters
(Appointed 19 June 2024)
Mrs E Smyth
(Appointed 19 June 2024)
Secretary
Ms K Willis
Charity number (Northern Ireland)
NIC100849
Company number
NI622215
Registered office
50 Colin Road
Poleglass
Belfast
BT17 0LG
Auditor
GMcG BELFAST
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditor
Alfred House
19 Alfred Street
Belfast
BT2 8EQ
Bankers
Bank of Ireland
University Road
Belfast
BT7 1NH
Solicitors
Hewitt & Gilpin Solicitors
73 Holywood Road
Belfast
BT4 3BA
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
CONTENTS
Page
Trustees' report
1 - 12
Independent auditor's report
13 - 18
Statement of financial activities
19
Balance sheet
20
Statement of cash flows
21
Notes to the financial statements
22 - 34
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 1 -

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's 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) (effective 1 January 2019)".

Objectives and activities

T he principal object of the charitable company is to, without discrimination on grounds of age, gender, disability, sexuality, nationality, ethnic origin and political or relig i ous opinion, promote the physical, mental, spiritual and social welfare of young people in Northern Ireland through education, youth work, and volunteering, and to pursue other charitable purposes that the trustee s shall decide.

Youth Initiatives NI is a cross community youth work charity which aims to awaken hope, inspire initiative, and mobilise youth to make a vital contribution to their community and to reconciliation in Northern Ireland, through the discovery and renewal of Christian faith in daily life.

The charitable company fulfills its objectives through projects jointly led by staff and young people aimed at the personal, social, physical, mental and spiritual development of young people.

The trustee s have taken cognisance of the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland's guidance on public benefit as defined in the Charities Act (Northern Ireland) 2008.

The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the charity should undertake.

Achievements and performance

During the year ended 31 March 2025, Youth Initiatives (NI) ('YI'), continued, developed and expanded its work through the following projects:

YI East Belfast

The YI East Belfast Hub plays a crucial role in supporting and empowering young people in the community. With a dedicated team of five paid staff members and two voluntary interns, the Hub is supported by a vibrant group of ten youth volunteers aged 15-18 and two adult volunteers. These individuals are integral to the operation of two key sites: Strand Road and Ballymac.

EA Funded Programmes: The Hub continues to deliver valuable programs funded by the Education Authority (EA) at two locations. At the Ballymac Friendship Centre, sessions are held twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. These sessions provide a safe and welcoming space for young people to engage in various activities, receive support, and develop new skills. Similarly, at the Strand Road Hub, programs are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays, focusing on personal, social, and educational development. These programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of the youth, offering structured activities that promote growth, learning, and community engagement. We also run after school cafe style drop ins on Monday and Tuesdays at the Mersey Street hub.

Outreach and Detached Youth Work: Outreach is a cornerstone of YI East Belfast’s work, aiming to connect with young people where they are on the streets and in schools. The team conducts weekly street-based outreach, establishing a presence in the community and building relationships with young people in their own environments. This approach is complemented by two school-based group sessions each week, where the team engages students through group work focused on various issues relevant to their lives. Additionally, four mentoring sessions are conducted within schools each week, providing one-on-one support to students who may need extra guidance.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 2 -

The Area Leader plays a pivotal role in connecting YI East Belfast with broader networks, ensuring the Hub is deeply embedded in the local youth work ecosystem. Active involvement in the East Belfast Youth Practitioners Forum, EA Local Advisory Group (LAG) which the area leader has chaired for over a year now and has involved YI East Belfast young people on those LAG meetings, Churches East Belfast Network, and Street Workers Forum is essential for expanding the Hub's impact. These partnerships enable the Hub to signpost young people to other services when needed and receive referrals from partner organisations. Notably, the Hub has participated in joint street work initiatives with the EA detached team over the past year. These collaborations have been particularly important during times of tension within East Belfast, where the team’s presence on the streets has helped defuse situations and provide support.

NUTS project

The NUTS Project, funded by the Education Authority (EA), is a dynamic and inclusive programme designed to support younger adolescents aged 10–14 through early intervention. Operating on a weekly basis - five sessions per week, the project hosts drop-in sessions and structured group activities that consistently attract an average of 25 young participants. These sessions provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment where young people can build meaningful relationships, express themselves freely, and access support during a key transitional stage of their development.

NUTS Project focuses on Personal, Social, and Spiritual Development. Each weekly session is carefully planned to help participants explore their personal values, enhance emotional and social skills, and strengthen their sense of identity and purpose. By fostering resilience, empathy, and moral awareness, the programme equips young people with the tools they need to navigate adolescence with confidence and integrity.

The project also places a strong emphasis on youth leadership and peer support. A dedicated team of 10 young volunteers plays an active role in the weekly delivery of the programme. These volunteers, many of whom are past participants themselves serve as relatable role models and provide vital peer encouragement. Their involvement not only enhances the overall experience for attendees but also supports the volunteers' own growth in leadership, responsibility, and community engagement.

By combining structured development with informal support in a nurturing setting, the NUTS Project continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people empowering them to thrive both now and in the future.

15 to 18’s Volunteering program

Volunteering remains the cornerstone of YI East Belfast’s mission, and the Youth Volunteer Programme continues to play a key role in developing confident, capable, and compassionate young leaders. Over the past year, the programme has experienced both growth and transition. Eight young volunteers have aged out of the programme and moved on to pursue full-time employment or further education, demonstrating the positive, lasting impact of their time with us.

At the same time, we've welcomed six new volunteers and retained four experienced returning volunteers, creating a strong and balanced team of ten. These young people are not only stepping into leadership roles within our weekly programmes but are also preparing to take part in our upcoming Summer Academy, a focused training initiative that equips them with essential youth work skills in communication, safeguarding, teamwork, and leadership. They will then help deliver our two-week summer scheme this August, where they’ll support and mentor younger participants.

Beyond their weekly commitments, our volunteers have also engaged in wider opportunities across the YI network. They’ve taken part in regional residentials, where they connected with peers from other areas, built deeper friendships, and developed their leadership potential in new and challenging environments. In recognition of their dedication and contribution, they were also honoured at the YI Volunteer Awards Dinner, a special event celebrating the hard work and impact of youth volunteers across the organisation. One of our volunteers also recently received a trophy for his service to YI East Belfast. Volunteering not only benefits our wider community but provides a meaningful, structured pathway for personal growth, skill development, and long-term success.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 3 -

Link-d Project (15-18 year olds)

The Link-d Project, funded by the Education Authority (EA), is a program designed to support young people aged 15 to 18 through a holistic and engaging approach to youth development. Operating five sessions each week, the project offers consistent, high-quality engagement opportunities that meet young people where they are both physically and emotionally. These regular sessions include outreach, drop-ins, group discussions, and targeted developmental activities, providing a reliable and supportive space where participants feel safe, respected, and empowered.

At its core, Link-d is about more than just keeping young people busy it’s about building character, confidence, and community. Each session integrates elements of Personal, Social, and Spiritual Development encouraging participants to explore their identity, strengthen emotional resilience, develop healthy relationships, and consider their values and goals. The holistic nature of the programme ensures that young people are supported in every aspect of their growth.

A defining feature of the Link-d Project is that we have two volunteer interns. The interns contribute to planning and delivery, act as peer mentors, and help create a culture of leadership and responsibility. By stepping into these roles, they not only grow in confidence and skill but also inspire and influence their peers in a meaningful way. Both interns have also completed their OCN Level 2 in youth work and are in the process of doing their OCN Level 3’s.

The Link-d Project is making a lasting difference in the lives of young people across East Belfast offering stability, inspiration, and the tools they need to thrive during a formative stage of life.

Summer 2025

We have an extremely busy summer lined up with the following

1 Week Summer Academy Volunteer training

1 Week Social Action for junior and seniors

1 week sports week with juniors and seniors

2 weeks of Summer Schemes for Juniors

2 Weeks of Summer Schemes for Seniors

Mentoring

In addition to its structured programmes, YI East Belfast delivers a focused mentoring initiative that supports young people both within school environments and outside of traditional settings. Over the past year, staff have provided one-to-one mentoring to eight young people four based in local schools, and four supported in community-based, out-of-school contexts.

This dual approach allows the team to meet young people where they are, tailoring support to their individual needs and circumstances. In-school mentoring offers a consistent presence within the academic environment, helping young people stay engaged in education, manage behaviour, and set personal and academic goals. Mentors work closely with school staff to provide an added layer of emotional and practical support during the school day.

Meanwhile, mentoring outside of school is often provided to those facing more complex or sensitive challenges that require a private, informal space for reflection and connection. These sessions may take place in community centres, cafés, or during local walks where young people can feel safe, relaxed, and more open to honest conversation. This setting enables staff to build trusted relationships, address personal issues, and guide young people toward positive decision-making and greater self-awareness.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 4 -

Mentoring (continued)

Whether in school or in the community, each mentoring relationship is highly individualised, rooted in empathy, trust, and consistency. Through regular sessions, mentors support young people in setting goals, navigating challenges, and developing confidence and resilience ultimately helping them take ownership of their personal growth and future direction.

This blended mentoring model reflects YI East Belfast’s commitment to holistic, responsive youth work that adapts to the real-life needs of young people, wherever they may be.

Faith Development

Faith development remains at the core of YI East Belfast’s mission, with faith-based programmes thoughtfully embedded within the curriculum of all weekly activities. These programmes are designed to nurture the spiritual growth of young people by encouraging them to explore their beliefs, build a strong moral foundation, and foster a sense of community grounded in shared values. As part of this spiritual journey, a number of young people from the Hub have begun attending CFC Belfast on a weekly basis, deepening their faith through involvement in this wider faith community.

In addition to regular programming, young people from YI East Belfast recently joined participants from other YI hubs for a YI Camp Reunion Night. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity for fellowship, reflection, and connection with peers, reinforcing the ongoing spiritual support that is central to YI’s work.

Leadership and Funding

The coordination of YI East Belfast’s activities is led by the Area Leader, who plays a vital role in building and sustaining a vibrant youth community hub. In addition to managing EA moderation and monitoring visits and ensuring all funding targets are met to secure ongoing support, the Area Leader has made recruitment a major priority to guarantee strong youth participation across all programmes.

Thanks to focused recruitment efforts, the Hub has seen a significant increase in attendance, positively impacting the quality and energy of the programmes offered. Key recruitment activities over the past year have included hosting a retreat day for Elmgrove Primary School at the Hub’s building, extensive leaflet drops throughout the community, a marked increase in social media engagement, as well as pop-up stalls and football outreach sessions.

These initiatives have successfully expanded participation: the average weekly attendance in the NUTS age group (10–14 years) has grown from 18 to 25, while the older group (ages 15–18) has nearly doubled, increasing from 8 to 16 participants. This growth not only enriches the social experience for participants but also strengthens the overall impact and sustainability of YI East Belfast’s youth programmes.

Beyond these operational duties, the Area Leader is also responsible for representing YI East Belfast at both local and regional levels, advocating for the organisation’s interests and contributing to broader youth development conversations. Additionally, the Area Leader chairs the Education Authority East Belfast Local Advisory Group (LAG) events, playing a key role in coordinating efforts and fostering collaboration across youth organisations in the area.

YI Downpatrick Project

Our Youth Community Hub based in the centre of the town works alongside 10-14 year olds and 15-19 year olds through a variety of centre based, school based and street based provision. Included are drop-ins, content-based programmes, faith development events, single gender activities and one to one mentoring. This year we had a team of 4 paid staff and one local intern who grew up through the programmes. We have continued to grow in the number of young people engaging with 15-18s and our 10-14s programme (tripling in size of our 10-14s programme). We have particularly seen growth and a sense of community in our Spark and Constructed single gender after school's programme.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 5 -

YI Downpatrick Project (continued)

Strive Peace Plus Project has recruited 30 plus young people to engage in the project with aims of citizenship, personal social development, good relations, and positive progression. Young people have taken part in cross site and cross boarder events as apart of Strive.

Youth Initiatives has continued its partnership with Down High School working 10 hours per week as the school's youth workers delivering personal social development classes, lunch time outreach, and mentoring sessions. We also provided sacramental prep sessions for local primary schools and ran summer schemes out of the local primary school. YI was generously funded by individuals and churches in the community. It is also funded by Strive Peace Plus Project, Benefact Grant, Newry, Mourne, & Down Council, Koch Foundation, and the Education Authority.

Faith Development

YI's Faith Development project has continued engaging young people and helping them discover the hope found in Jesus Christ through programmes, mentoring, and one-off events. Sarah Nilles regionally coordinates our faith development work. This has included the new Missing Youth Project funded by the Benefact Grant which funds 6 faith development champions in each of our local youth community hubs. The FD Champions meet quarterly to look at how we are developing Christian faith of young people in our areas based on our YI Faith Development Model. Sarah represents YI as apart of TOGETHER a collection of like minded Christian youth ministry workers and organisations.

YI delivered 30 personal, social and spiritual development classes at St Colm's High School, engaging with 420 students on a regular basis including an end of the year prayer service. The Well Prayer Youth Group in West Belfast, which runs weekly on a Sunday evening, has been a space for young people to explore and make personal faith choices. This Spring, the Well Alpha Course where 20+ young people engaged with questions about life and faith. YI Lisburn partnered with local churches in running Alphas in the local secondary schools. Following from a faith-based summer camp this July in which 250+ young people attended, the FD Project ran a “Summer in the Autumn Event” in October connecting young people from all the areas and sharing faith. The Faith Development project is financially supported by the Benfact Grant, Ardbarron Trust, Koch Foundation, local parishes, and other donations.

YI Derry/Londonderry

YI Derry is now into its 11th year. The team consists of Jonny, Aoife and Caoimhe, Jack has also come on board through local partnership. And Clare & Cassie connect in with us once a month, when they aren’t running their individual bases.

Artbridge continues to run as a creative good relations project for 11-16, funded by Donors & TEO CGR. This year we continued our regular pattern of an art Exhibition of young people's work in ‘The Playhouse Theatre'- a great success again. In the summer of 2024, we ran our 5th TBUC camp as part of the wider YI Summer camp in Ganaway. Our partnership with the Franciscan Friars continues, allowing us to have a base & space in the Gallaigh estate at St Pio House developing different programs for 10-18's. We have completed our first cohort of The Strive Project our Peace Plus funded project & deep into the second one.

We continue looking at how we develop young leaders for the future through our volunteering and young leadership programme. We continue to build good relationships with a number of schools in the city. We value the unique relationships we are building with the young people in the city of Derry and the privilege it is to be invited into their worlds and journey alongside them. It has been exciting to see deeper relationships form and to see what being a consistent presence in the lives of young people can achieve.

The work of YI Derry / Londonderry was funded by Peace Plus, TEO Central Good Relations grant, EA generic targeted and by generous YI donors.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 6 -

YI Lisburn

YI Lisburn continued to work in the Lisburn North area over the past year, primarily out of “Exodus”, the Bridge community centre, and Lisburn Racquets Club. We have provided programmes for 11-14s, including a Young Men’s Group and Young Women’s Group for those in that age bracket. We have also started a 15-18s programme including a weekly Programme and after-school Drop In.

YI Lisburn has continued to develop our relationship with the nearby Fort HiIl Integrated College, with whom we have worked over the past 6 years. We have continued our "Youth Workers In Schools" programme where staff spend a full day on the premises, providing ad-hoc support to students and teachers, as well as 1-1 and targeted intervention programmes with small groups of students with a particular focus on those with low attendance.

We concluded the first of 4 years of E2T cohorts and have now recruited a second cohort of young people aged 15-18yrs, providing programmes focused on Personal and Social Development, Good Relations, Citizenship and Employability.

YI Lisburn has continued working in Lisnagarvey High School in Lisburn South, providing 1-1 sessions with students in need of support staying in school.

We have continued to work in partnership with Exodus and Lagan Valley Vineyard to provide additional short term projects in schools such as Alpha and NUA programmes to 14-16 year olds. Our Summer Scheme in 2024 was attended by over 20 young people across a 5 day period at the school, and this summer we will again be running our Summer Schemes there.

We also began a partnership with a local church based in Lambeg, North Lisburn. St Columba's Parish Derryvolgie is keen to see YI support their vision of a local church reaching out into and supporting the local community, and we are excited to see what opportunities will develop over the coming years.

The work of YI Lisburn was funded by Peace Plus, the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Ardbarron Trust, the Police & Community Safety Partnership, TBUC, the EA Small Grants Programme, EA generic provision grant and by a variety of YI donors

YI Banbridge

This has been a year of change for Youth Initiatives Banbridge. With the departure of Youth for Christ (YFC) and Exodus from the J29 building we have seen challenges. Despite this, it has been another great year for establishing and growing connections with young people in the centre, schools and through street-based youth work. With visible growth within the community, surrounding schools and the centre based projects, we have built connections with local churches; The Bridge Church being a key connection allowing the facilitation of many ventures, the main being an out of centre drop-in which runs every Friday after school.
Normal Weekly Run-through:
On Monday afternoons we host our 1 to 1 or group mentoring sessions and use this time to up-skill our young people. From September 2024 - March 2025 we ran sessions for our young people to complete their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze awards. From September 2024 we also gained a new connection with Banbridge High School and started to supervise their lunchtimes every week through which we saw young people start to attend the centre and programmes.
On Tuesdays we have partnered with Reach Mentoring and have started to volunteer, helping with mentoring pupils in St. Patrick's College. We want to grow our connection with the school but also with Reach and are always on the lookout for more opportunities within schools and elsewhere.
We have started a 15+ project called Linked In where we open the centre as a drop in for sessions and offer a 10-30 minute programme of informal learning time at the end of the night. We have 15-30 young people a week joining us for this session.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 7 -

YI Banbridge (continued)

On Wednesdays we have continued to visit St Patrick's college from 12:30 to 2pm. as well as Banbridge High School, this time is spent with the young people on lunchtime supervision and it's a great time for us to host games and connect with more young people. Furthermore, on Wednesdays we host a Drop-In session for junior groups where we spend time making up creative events / games / activities / crafts and also spend time just being together, getting to know people that join us.

This year we have a group that is beginning to age out of programme but have found their place within the older Linked-in group.
We have also had great success with recruitment through one-off events in primary schools where we have seen a growth of about 5 to 10 younger people between the ages of 10 and 14. We have also changed our seniors drop in to a group called E2T focus group which gives us the chance to hit the required fundraising criteria but also makes a unique group of volunteers and allows them to meet in an informal yet educational setting. At drop in we average between 20 and 35 attendees and E2T group averages 30+.
On Thursdays we have started Spark which is a group for young people, aged 10-14 where they spend time doing group work and other learning activities. This project also gives the volunteers the chance to lead group sessions and games.
Friday consists of after-school-drop-in that runs out of the local church called the Bridge. this has been ongoing for the last 10 months and has resulted in the young people visiting the church on Sundays for fundraisers and church services. This is for all age groups.
This year we have started looking at more faith development opportunities by doing praise evenings every six to eight weeks and focusing on further development in this area. We had a turnout of 19 young people to praise sessions, including young people that wouldn't typically attend church.
We also have a group of 14 young people attending Summer Madness this year in June.
We aim to continue this work and seek guidance opportunities for the young people that we work with hoping to continue with E2T projects for which we have already had 16 successful completions in the first year. We have 21 young people signed up for year two as of February 25.
With Summer just around the corner, we have begun planning for t-buc programme for the Summer months ahead.

Crosslinks

Crosslinks has continued to work in partnership with Diverse Youth. Our team has staff from East, West and DY who work with volunteers from each hub to encourage and enable young people from the hubs to connect with young people from the wider community and enjoy the richness that brings. Crosslinks brought over 60 young people together to engage in team building and good relations workshops exploring the theme 'Hope' through summer programs, arts workshops and a training residential. Crosslinks' team of 15 youth peer mentors received leadership training and helped design and deliver the program. This culminated in a live theatre performance that the young people wrote, composed, choreographed and designed - 'Race against time’. It explored the journey our society has come on in terms of inclusivity & equality and what it took to achieve positive change and inspire those in the audience as to where we still need initiate change. This took place in Stranmillis Theatre to an audience of over 400 friends and family. Crosslinks was funded this year by Central Good Relations Fund, TEO, DFA and CRCNI.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 8 -

YI West

Nuts 11-14’s

The YI West Belfast programme for 11 - 14's has been made possible through funding from The National Lottery. The NUTS programme, through a large team of youth volunteers, provides weekly programmes on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday in Poleglass where young people can explore their creativity, identity and spirituality. We also offer themed game nights for young people to build relationships with each other and have fun. Lastly, given the current circumstances in regards to the cost of living crisis we have continued operating a family dinner night where young people can come up and receive a hot meal to enjoy with friends around our family dinner table.

Flare – Girl’s project

West Belfast 11-14’s girls project creates a safe space for young women to come into on a weekly basis and explore themes that relate to being a young woman. This year Flare focused on young women building relationships both with their peers and with the older girls attending youth initiatives 15-18 programmes .

Wired – Boys project

West Belfast 11-14’s boys project creates a safe space for young men to come into on a weekly basis and explore themes that relate to being a young man. This year Wired focused on a new group of young men building a safe space in which they can be honest and share with one another.

Lifeline 15–18s – West Belfast

The Lifeline 15–18s programme in West Belfast continues to create a vibrant, family-like environment where young people can grow alongside each other and their leaders through personal development, mentoring and shared experience. This year has seen a surge in new young people joining the programme — bringing fresh energy and momentum. In response, our focus has been on fostering identity, building trust, and developing strong, meaningful relationships.

We engage young people through school partnerships, detached street work and community outreach, primarily in the socially disadvantaged Colin Area. Our aim remains to walk alongside them as they navigate the highs and lows of teenage life, helping them discover purpose, connection and confidence.

This year also sees a significant group of young people preparing to graduate from the programme. Supporting them through this transition has become a key focus — creating space to reflect on their journey so far while equipping them to step into the next stage of life with hope and clarity.

We continue to offer a broad base of support through weekly centre-based sessions, small groups, 1-1s, day trips, residentials and local outreach — all designed to help young people step out of their comfort zones, connect meaningfully with others, and grow in every area of life.

Many of our current volunteers are former Lifeline participants who are now giving back to their community by helping to plan and deliver youth sessions. These young leaders are trained, supported and deeply involved in team life — role-modelling positive leadership and peer mentorship.

Young Men’s Work

In our West Belfast Young Men’s 15–18s work, we’ve continued to provide a weekly programme that mixes consistency and challenge. We’ve been working with a steady group of regulars, while also welcoming new faces who drop in and out.

A key strand this year has been delivering the Duke of Edinburgh Award — providing structure, adventure and a sense of accomplishment. We’re especially looking forward to this summer, when our young men will complete their first expedition weekend.

As we look ahead, our primary focus for the young men’s work is character formation. In the face of toxic masculinity, generational unemployment, poor mental health and limited opportunities, we’re committed to walking with these young men — encouraging them to grow in resilience, own their story and make positive life choices.

Through strong relationships, shared challenges and a sense of brotherhood, we’re helping young men step into a vision of healthy masculinity and purposeful living.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 9 -

Young Women’s GLOW Project

The 15–18s girls’ programme in West Belfast has continued to go from strength to strength this year. The GLOW project has flourished under the leadership of a passionate and capable youth work team who have created warm, relational spaces where young women feel safe, seen and supported.

The team has developed a dynamic programme that blends fun, creativity, reflection and skill-building — all geared toward helping the girls grow in self-esteem, identity and confidence.

This year, for the first time, the young women have also begun working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award, and we’re thrilled to be supporting them on this journey. The girls’ expedition weekend will take place this summer — at the same time as the boys’ (though running separately) — marking a new and exciting milestone in our youth work.

It’s been a joy to see the young women embrace new challenges, encourage one another and grow in strength and self-belief. The GLOW project is flourishing, and we’re excited for all that lies ahead.

Regional

Volunteer Leadership Development Programme

Over 130 young people aged 15-22 have taken part in the YI Volunteer Leadership Development Programme this past year. The programme has been supported in part by The National Lottery through the Awards for All programme and LFT Charitable Trust, Belfast as we provide spaces and places for young people to receive training and practical experience in supporting the planning, delivery and evaluation of youth work programmes across each YI Hub. In September the training day saw the volunteers engage in a team training day working their way across Belfast from East to West taking part in challenges and managing their budget for the day. January 2025 we headed to Greenhill YMCA for a residential weekend with training on reflective practice, writing funding applications and planning for upcoming regional events. The YI Summer Academy is a 3 days intensive training programme for over 100 volunteers who went on to support the running of the summer schemes across each of our hubs throughout July and August. We have also had 20+ volunteers complete the OCN Level 2 and Level 3 in Youth Work practice through a partnership with Youth Link funded by the Education Authority. This is a great opportunity to upskill our incredible volunteers.

TBUC CAMPS

Across the YI youth community hubs, nine different camp programmes were delivered, featuring a range of pre-camp and post-camp activities. The residential element of the programme brought all nine camps together at @ Ganaway in Millisle, where over 300 young people from across Northern Ireland took part. These cross-community camps welcomed participants aged 11–18 for a four-day summer residential that combined community relations workshops with recreational activities. The main focus of the camps programme is to continue to improve attitudes amongst our young people and to build a community where they can play a full and active role in building good relations. The good relations sessions developed by the YI Staff team were incredibly creative and engaging including the design of a good relations board game as a workshop to engage participants. Young people across the individual camps and the wider camp continue to build relationships at regional YI events throughout the year.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 10 -
Financial review

The charitable company receives its income mainly from grants and donations. The expenses of the charity were incurred in the running, staff and programme costs of the projects.

The results for the year are set out in detail on pages 19 to 35. The charitable company returned net surplus for the year of £86,957 (2024 – £17,410 deficit).

At 31 March 2025, the total funds of the charity amounted to £892,708 (2024 - £805,751) comprising restricted funds of £683,341 (2024 - £671,275) and unrestricted funds of £209,367 (2024 - £134,476). The Trustees expect to apply the reserves to continue and expand the work of the charitable company.

The charitable company works closely with organisations such as; DfC, Garfield Weston Foundation, Paul Hamlyn Foundation and the Education Authority Regional Strategic Grant, who all supported the core costs of YI during the year.

Reserves Policy

The Board of Directors have decided that Youth Initiatives should hold financial reserves for the following reasons:

1. YI has no long term funding sources and is entirely dependant for income year on year on short term grants and donor funding, which is inevitably subject to fluctuation.

2. YI requires protection against, and the ability to continue operating despite, fluctuations in income or events threatening to the organisation.

3. YI requires the ability to continue to employ workers and continue youth work projects in between periods of grant funding.

The Trustees have decided that the level of the reserves should ideally be the equivalent of three to six months’ personnel and overheads costs, calculated and reviewed annually, and have decided that reserves should be built up to the desired level in stages consistent with the charitable company's overall financial position and its need to maintain and develop its charitable activities. At 31 March 2025 the free reserves of the charity amounted to £180,972 after designating an amount of £18,017 towards the purchase of a new minibus. This is an increase from the level of free reserves held at 31 March 2024, which was £123,286. The Trustees continue to give consideration to how this level of reserves can be increased further.

The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks.

Going Concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charitable company has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 11 -
Plans for future periods

In 2025–26, we are committed to returning to the founding principles of youth work, ensuring these core values shape both our methodology and our long-term direction. These principles will not only guide our organisational strategy but will also be embedded at the heart of day-to-day practice.Our vision is to inspire staff to think creatively, challenge conventional approaches, and fully integrate these principles into their work. To reflect this aspiration, our theme for the year ahead is “Reimagine the Essentials.”

Alongside this theme, we will progress into the third year of our strategic plan, with a continued focus on strengthening our investment in staff, interns, and volunteers. We are also continuing to invest in our youth community hubs to identify opportunities for enhanced resourcing and improved support, ensuring these spaces remain well-equipped to serve young people effectively. We are further investing in our staff team by equipping them with a deeper understanding of the theory underpinning youth work practice. This will enable them to more effectively translate these principles into action, strengthening the quality and impact of their engagement with young people.

Finally, Youth Initiatives has made a formal offer on the St. Christopher’s Church buildings in East Belfast, a step that could provide our hub with a permanent home and create a lasting base for our work in the community.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and was set up by a Memorandum of Association on 9 January 2014. It is registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland under charity number NIC100849.

The principal object of the charitable company is to, without discrimination on grounds of age, gender, disability, sexuality, nationality, ethnic origin and political or religious opinion, promote the physical, mental, spiritual and social welfare of young people in Northern Ireland through education, youth work, and volunteering, and to pursue other charitable purposes that the Trustees shall decide.

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 signature of the financial statements were:

Mr F Dick
(Resigned 19 June 2024)
Mr K Humphrey
(Resigned 30 April 2025)
Mr R McFadden
Ms D McNally
Mr S McVitte
Mr J Lilly
(Appointed 19 June 2024)
Dr M McFeeters
(Appointed 19 June 2024)
Mrs E Smyth
(Appointed 19 June 2024)

Organisational Structure and Decision Making

The governance of the charitable company is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the Articles of Association, which state that a person willing to act as a Trustee may be appointed by ordinary resolution or by a decision of the Trustees. Trustees are briefed on their duties and issued with an induction pack prior to their appointment.

The directors have delegated the management of the work of the charitable company to a four-person Management Team. The Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tony Silcock, oversees the day to day running of the organisation. In 2024-2025 Youth Initiatives employed a staff of employed a staff of 42 plus 1 intern and over 120 youth volunteers.

Risk Management

The Trustees have responsibility for maintaining a sound system of internal control that supports the achievement of the policies, aims and objectives of the charity. The system of internal control is designed to manage rather than eliminate the risk of failure to achieve policies, aims and objectives, it can therefore only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance of effectiveness. In this regard, the trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those related to the operational and financial aspects of the Company. The Trustees are satisfied that appropriate risk management systems and processes have been put in place and that these evaluate the nature and extent of those risks and ensure that they are managed efficiently, effectively and economically.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 12 -
Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The trustees, who are also the directors of Youth Initiatives (Northern Ireland) for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Auditor

In accordance with the company's articles, a resolution proposing that GMcG BELFAST be reappointed as auditor of the company will be put at a General Meeting.

Small companies exemption

In preparing this report, the directors have taken advantage of the small companies exemptions provided by section 415A of the Companies Act 2006.

Disclosure of information to auditor

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information.

The Trustees' r eport was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr R McFadden
Trustee
30 September 2025
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 13 -

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Youth Initiatives (Northern Ireland) (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2025 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

-

give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended;

-
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-

have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 14 -

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

-

the information given in the Trustees' r eport for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared, which includes the d irectors' r eport prepared for the purposes of company law, is consistent with the financial statements; and

-

the d irectors' r eport included within the Trustees' r eport has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required 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 identified material misstatements in the d irectors' r eport included within the Trustees' r eport.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

-

adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or

-

the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or

-

certain disclosures of trustees' remuneration specified by law are not made; or

-

we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or

-

the trustees were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies' exemptions in preparing the Trustees' report and from the requirement to prepare a strategic report.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 15 -
Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the s tatement of Trustees' r esponsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 16 -
Extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and then design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, including obtaining audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

In identifying and assessing potential risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliances with laws and regulations, we considered the following:

- The nature of the industry and sector, control environment and business performance, including the company’s remuneration policies for directors, bonus levels and performance targets, if any;

- Results of our enquiries of management about their own identification and assessment of the risks of irregularities;

- Any matters we identified having obtained and reviewed the company’s documentation of their policies and procedures relating to:

  - Identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations and whether they were aware of any instance of non-compliance;

  - Detecting and responding to the risks of fraud and whether they have knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged fraud; and

  - The internal controls established to mitigate risks of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations;

- The matters discussed among the audit engagement team regarding how and where fraud might occur in the financial statements and potential indicators of fraud.

As a result of these procedures, we considered the opportunities and incentives that may exist within the company for fraud and identified the greatest potential for fraud in revenue recognition. In common with all audits under ISAs (UK), we are also required to perform specific procedures to respond to the risk of management override.

We also obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks that the company operates in, focusing on provisions of those laws and regulations that had a direct effect on the determination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The key laws and regulations we considered in this context included the Companies Act 2006, and local tax legislation.

In addition, we considered provisions of other laws and regulations that do not have a direct effect on the financial statements but compliance with which may be fundamental to the company’s ability to operate or to avoid a material penalty.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 17 -
Audit response to risks identified

Our procedures to respond to the risks identified included the following:

- Reviewing the financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess compliance with provisions of relevant laws and regulations described as having a direct effect on the financial statements;

- Enquiring of management concerning actual and potential litigation and claims;

- Performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud;

- Reading minutes of meetings of those charged with governance and reviewing correspondence with tax authorities; and

- In addressing the risk of fraud through management override of controls, testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments; assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias; and evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the normal course of business.

We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and remained alert to any indications of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit.

Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with auditing standards. In addition, as with any audit, there remains a higher risk of non-detection of irregularities, as they may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal controls. We are not responsible for preventing non-compliance and cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)
TO THE MEMBERS OF YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
- 18 -

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in accordance with section 391 of the Companies Act 20 06. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Mr Nigel Moore FCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of GMcG BELFAST
30 September 2025
Chartered Accountants
Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditor
Alfred House
19 Alfred Street
Belfast
BT2 8EQ
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 19 -
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2025
2025
2025
2024
2024
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
78,480
1,386,587
1,465,067
110,427
957,608
1,068,035
Charitable activities
4
29,179
-
29,179
23,182
-
23,182
Total income
107,659
1,386,587
1,494,246
133,609
957,608
1,091,217
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
5
32,542
1,374,747
1,407,289
166,130
942,497
1,108,627
Total expenditure
32,542
1,374,747
1,407,289
166,130
942,497
1,108,627
Net income/(expenditure)
75,117
11,840
86,957
(32,521)
15,111
(17,410)
Transfers between funds
(226)
226
-
470
(470)
-
Net movement in funds
7
74,891
12,066
86,957
(32,051)
14,641
(17,410)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2024
134,476
671,275
805,751
166,527
656,634
823,161
Fund balances at 31 March 2025
209,367
683,341
892,708
134,476
671,275
805,751

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
BALANCE SHEET
AS AT
31 MARCH 2025
31 March 2025
- 20 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
11
615,570
631,904
Current assets
Debtors
12
180,442
112,905
Cash at bank and in hand
149,633
128,025
330,075
240,930
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
13
(52,937)
(67,083)
Net current assets
277,138
173,847
Total assets less current liabilities
892,708
805,751
Income funds
Restricted funds
16
683,341
671,275
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
17
18,017
-
General unrestricted funds
191,350
134,476
209,367
134,476
892,708
805,751

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 30 September 2025
Mr R McFadden
Trustee
Company Registration No. NI622215
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 21 -
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
£
£
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
24
29,614
(29,619)
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
(8,006)
-
Net cash used in investing activities
(8,006)
-
Net cash generated from financing activities
-
-
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
21,608
(29,619)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
128,025
157,644
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
149,633
128,025
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 22 -
1
Accounting policies
Charity information

Youth Initiatives (Northern Ireland) is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in Northern Ireland. The registered office is 50 Colin Road, Poleglass, Belfast, BT17 0LG.

1.1
Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's 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) (effective 1 January 2019)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary a mounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2
Going concern

These financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The charity's unrestricted funds at the year end amounted to £209,367 which equates to two and a half months' expenditure. The trustees acknowledge the level of reserves is under the Reserve Policy target of 3 to 6 months of operational costs. The trustees are committed to achieving the targeted level and continue to monitor the level of unrestricted reserves.

Having considered the current level of funds and confirmed future funding, the trustees consider that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operation for at least twelve months following the signing of these financial statements.

1.3
Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4
Income
Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
1
Accounting policies (Continued)
- 23 -
1.5
Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the company and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the company and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the company's operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the company apportioned to charitable activities.

1.6
Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Leasehold land and buildings
2% Straight Line
Fixtures and fittings
10% Straight Line
Computers
33% Straight Line
Motor vehicles
20% Straight Line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7
Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8
Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
1
Accounting policies (Continued)
- 24 -
1.9
Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future p aymen ts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities 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 price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10
Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.11
Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 25 -
2
Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Fixed Assets

The annual depreciation charge on fixed assets depends primarily on the estimated lives of each type of asset and estimates of residual values. The directors regularly review these asset lives and change them as necessary to reflect current thinking on remaining lives in light of prospective economic utilisation and physical condition of the assets concerned. Changes in asset lives can have a significant impact on depreciation and amortisation charges for the period. Detail of useful lives is included in the accounting policies.

Debtors

Short term debtors are measured at transaction price, less any impairment. Impairment of such debtors involves some estimation uncertainty.

3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
funds
funds
2025
2025
2025
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
£
£
£
Donations and gifts
77,731
-
77,731
109,770
44,340
154,110
Grants
-
1,374,287
1,374,287
-
938,606
938,606
Less: deferred income
-
12,300
12,300
-
(25,338)
(25,338)
Other
749
-
749
657
-
657
78,480
1,386,587
1,465,067
110,427
957,608
1,068,035
4
Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
£
£
Charitable activities
Sales within charitable activities
-
5,000
Outreach and Cross Community Youth Work
29,179
18,182
29,179
23,182
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 26 -
5
Expenditure on charitable activities
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
2025
2024
£
£
Direct costs
Staff costs
730,754
559,922
Programme costs
84,997
71,601
Resource materials
26,860
21,507
Equipment and software
23,949
3,915
Transportation
38,203
31,796
Accommodation costs
49,356
46,207
Tutor/facilitator costs
19,490
15,594
First aid supplies
1,039
19
Partner agency expense
41,657
13,000
1,016,305
763,561
Share of support and governance costs (see note 6)
Support
371,879
307,785
Governance
19,105
37,281
1,407,289
1,108,627
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
32,542
166,130
Restricted funds
1,374,747
942,497
1,407,289
1,108,627
6
Support costs allocated to activities
2025
2024
£
£
Staff costs
243,846
184,047
Depreciation
24,340
25,628
General overheads
38,750
39,942
Meeting refreshments
7,432
5,117
Fees and subscriptions
7,168
6,319
Sundry expenses
12,205
12,303
Fundraising and newsletter
1,996
1,752
Other expenses
36,142
32,677
Governance costs
19,105
37,281
390,984
345,066
Analysed between:
Charitable activities
390,984
345,066
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 27 -
7
Net movement in funds
2025
2024
£
£
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the audit of the charity's financial statements
4,500
4,680
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets
24,340
25,628
8
Trustees
None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.
9
Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2025
2024
Number
Number
42
34
Employment costs
2025
2024
£
£
Wages and salaries
886,277
680,249
Social security costs
65,108
46,391
Other pension costs
23,215
17,329
974,600
743,969
There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.
Remuneration of key management personnel

Remuneration payable to key management personnel in the year was £164,200 (2024 - £148,354).

10
Taxation

The charity is exempt from income tax and capital gains tax to the extent that its income and gains are applied for charitable purposes. No tax charge has arisen in the year.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 28 -
11
Tangible fixed assets
Leasehold land and buildings
Fixtures and fittings
Computers
Motor vehicles
Total
£
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2024
776,077
49,651
42,650
22,140
890,518
Additions
-
2,937
5,069
-
8,006
At 31 March 2025
776,077
52,588
47,719
22,140
898,524
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
155,363
45,750
35,361
22,140
258,614
Depreciation charged in the year
15,522
644
8,174
-
24,340
At 31 March 2025
170,885
46,394
43,535
22,140
282,954
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
605,192
6,194
4,184
-
615,570
At 31 March 2024
620,714
3,901
7,289
-
631,904
12
Debtors
2025
2024
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
£
Trade debtors
9,362
5,366
Other debtors
170,642
106,755
Prepayments and accrued income
438
784
180,442
112,905
13
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2025
2024
Notes
£
£
Deferred income
14
44,134
56,434
Other creditors
5,553
7,399
Accruals
3,250
3,250
52,937
67,083
14
Deferred income
2025
2024
£
£
Other deferred income
44,134
56,434

Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
14
Deferred income (Continued)
- 29 -
2025
2024
£
£
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities
44,134
56,434
Movements in the year:
Deferred income at 1 April 2024
56,434
31,096
Released from previous periods
(56,434)
(31,096)
Resources deferred in the year
44,134
56,434
Deferred income at 31 March 2025
44,134
56,434

The deferred income arises in respect of income being received in the year which relates to a future accounting period and in respect of income received in the year where conditions for recognition have not yet been satisfied. The income will be released to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which it relates.

15
Retirement benefit schemes
2025
2024
Defined contribution schemes
£
£
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes
23,215
17,329

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 30 -
16
Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity compri se the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be use d.

Movement in funds
Movement in funds
Balance at
1 April 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Balance at
1 April 2024
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2025
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
Building fund
634,576
-
(15,522)
1,660
620,714
-
(15,522)
-
605,192
BBC CIN NUTS
-
9,833
(9,833)
-
-
3,267
(3,267)
-
-
Peace Plus Empower 2 Transform & Strive
-
56,549
(56,549)
-
-
504,666
(466,117)
-
38,549
Community Relation Council NI - Core
(387)
29,187
(29,532)
732
-
29,532
(29,532)
-
-
Benefact Trust
-
45,840
(34,380)
-
11,460
45,840
(45,840)
-
11,460
Education Authority NI
-
284,513
(284,513)
-
-
331,246
(331,246)
-
-
National Lottery (Awards for all)
-
20,000
-
-
20,000
-
(20,000)
-
-
National Lottery
-
136,857
(133,213)
-
3,644
135,020
(134,933)
-
3,731
Paul Hamlyn Foundation
-
20,833
(20,833)
-
-
50,000
(50,000)
-
-
Dept of Foreign Affairs & Trade - Reconciliation Fund
642
9,295
(9,295)
(642)
-
16,389
(13,509)
-
2,880
Garfield Weston Foundation
12,500
-
(12,500)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Koch Foundation
-
14,170
(14,170)
-
-
7,410
(7,410)
-
-
Department for Communities - CED
-
25,516
(25,599)
83
-
23,888
(23,888)
-
-
TBF Thompson
-
7,500
(7,500)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Ardbarron Trust
10,000
49,640
(49,640)
-
10,000
50,000
(40,000)
-
20,000
Rank Foundation
-
14,875
(14,875)
-
(3,000)
57,680
(57,680)
-
(3,000)
TEO - Artbridge
-
34,650
(34,650)
-
-
44,847
(44,847)
-
-
TEO - Crosslinks
-
44,491
(44,491)
-
-
34,693
(34,919)
226
-
Other restricted funds
(697)
153,859
(145,402)
(2,303)
8,457
52,109
(56,037)
-
4,529
656,634
957,608
(942,497)
(470)
671,275
1,386,587
(1,374,747)
226
683,341
YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 31 -
17
Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity compri se the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be use d. The se include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 April 2024
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 31 March 2025
£
£
£
£
£
Minibus Fund
-
18,017
-
-
18,017
General funds
134,476
89,642
(32,542)
(226)
191,350
134,476
107,659
(32,542)
(226)
209,367
Previous year:
At 1 April 2023
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Transfers
At 31 March 2024
£
£
£
£
£
General funds
166,527
133,609
(166,130)
470
134,476

Minibus F und

Minibus Fund relates to income raised to fund anticipated capital expenditure on a new minibus.

18
Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2025
2025
2025
£
£
£
At 31 March 2025:
Tangible assets
10,378
605,192
615,570
Current assets/(liabilities)
198,989
78,149
277,138
209,367
683,341
892,708
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
At 31 March 2024:
Tangible assets
11,190
620,714
631,904
Current assets/(liabilities)
123,286
50,561
173,847
134,476
671,275
805,751

This figure includes £18,017 (2024 - £nil) that is designated for specific purposes leaving a balance of free reserves totalling £180,972 (2024 - £123,286).

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 32 -
19
Explanatory notes to the funds

Unrestricted Funds

General Funds

This fund includes all core funding that the charity receives and is expendable at the discretion of the directors for the general purposes of the charity.

Restricted Funds

Restricted funds comprise of the Building Fund of £605,192 (2024 - £620,714) and remaining restricted fund balances held for a specific purpose of £78,149 (2024 - £50,561). Details of the restricted funds are as noted below.

Building Fund - The building fund was accumulated to finance the construction of the charity's youth facility. The balance on the fund represents the net book value of the building and fixtures and fittings held as fixed assets on the balance sheet.

Ardbarron Trust - To fund Youth Ministry workers, general management and core costs.

Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon City Council - To support Banbridge Good Relations

BBC C hildren in Need NUTS Project - To fund the salary and programme costs of NUTS West Belfast.

Belfast City Council - To fund community support in the Colin, West Belfast Area.

Benefact Trust - To fund the Missing Youth project costs.

Community Relations Council (CRC) Core - To fund the salary of the Good Relations Development Officer.

Community Relations Council (CRC) Step Up, Step Out - To part-fund volunteer costs.

Community Relations Council (CRC) Show grant - To part-fund Crosslinks show.

Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade - Reconciliation Fund (ROI) - To fund Cross Community Programme costs.

Department for Communities - CED - To part-fund Project Support Worker salary and overheads.

Department for Communities - Job Start - To fund salaries for JobStart employees.

Duke of Edinburgh/Joint Initiative Award - To fund Duke of Edinburgh centre set-up.

Education Authority Regional Strategic Grant - To part fund the salaries, core costs for supporting member organisations.

Education Authority local support grants - To fund local Branch Programme costs.

Education Authority Planned Intervention West - To fund summer intervention in West Area.

Education Authority Strand Road & Ballymacarrett - To fund Strand Road (East Area) activities and salaries.

Education Authority TBUC 11-14s - To fund Summer programme costs.

Education Authority TBUC 15-18s - To fund Summer programme costs.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 33 -
20
Explanatory notes to the fund (continued)

Education Authority - Small Grants - To fund small projects in 2 of Youth Initiatives areas.

Garfield Weston Foundation - To fund core youth work costs.

House of Vic-Ryn - To fund youth ministry salaries.

James Brown Funeral Services - To provide activities and workshops to promote mental and physical wellness for young women in East Belfast.

Koch Foundation - To fund faith development project costs.

LFT - Youth Impacting Community Project is to provide an opportunity for twenty volunteers to take part in the Volunteer and Leadership Development Programme for one year.

Newry Mourne & Down - To provide early intervention and diversionary activities in Downpatrick.

National Lottery - To fund 13-18s youthwork in YI East and West Areas.

Paul Hamlyn Foundation - To fund an Anti-Racism programme of research and campaign work, and infrastructure development.

Paul Hamlyn Foundation Bytes research grant - To fund promotion of the Positive Sparks website.

PCSP - To fund diversionary activities in Lisburn.

Rank Foundation - Start Here - To fund the salary for media internship.

Rank Foundation - Aspire Programme - To fund the salary for youth work internship.

SEUPB Peace Plus 3.2, YMCA Empower to Transform programme - To fund salary, programme and overheads to deliver E2T programme.

SEUPB Peace Plus 3.2, Include Youth Strive programme - To fund salary, programme and overheads to deliver Strive programme.

Soutter Charitable Trust - To fund Youth Initiatives faith development project costs.

The Executive Office Central Good Relations Fund Crosslinks - To fund East and West Belfast Crosslinks programme and salary costs.

The Executive Office Central Good Relations Fund Artbridge - To fund Foyle Artbridge programme and salary costs.

TBF Thompson Trust - To fund Banbridge Staff salaries.

Youth Action - To fund Social Action Projects in East Belfast.

Youth Justice Agency - To provide a bonfire focused intervention project in Derry/Londonderry.

Youth Link/EA Youth Development - To collectively deliver OCN Level courses to part time and volunteer youth work staff in EA registered groups.

Transfers

During the year, there were transfers of £226 from unrestricted funds to restricted funds.

YOUTH INITIATIVES (NORTHERN IRELAND)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
- 34 -
21
Pension commitments

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held sep a rate l y from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents the contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £23,215 (2024 - £17,329).

22
Financial commitments, guarantees and contingent liabilities

A portion of grants received may become repayable if the company fails to comply with the terms of letter

of offer.

23
Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).

24
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
2025
2024
£
£
Surplus/(deficit) for the year
86,957
(17,410)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
24,340
25,628
Movements in working capital:
(Increase) in debtors
(67,537)
(60,237)
(Decrease) in creditors
(1,846)
(2,938)
(Decrease)/increase in deferred income
(12,300)
25,338
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations
29,614
(29,619)
25
Analysis of changes in net funds

The charity had no material debt during the year.

2025-03-31 2024-04-01 false false CCH Software iXBRL Review & Tag 2025.2 NI622215 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director3 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director4 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director5 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director6 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director7 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director8 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:CompanySecretary1 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director1 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Director2 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 2025-03-31 NI622215 2024-03-31 NI622215 2023-04-01 2024-03-31 NI622215 bus:FRS102 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:Audited 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 NI622215 bus:FullAccounts 2024-04-01 2025-03-31 xbrli:pure xbrli:shares iso4217:GBP