Behind The Curtain (Btc) Community Interest Company

This year has been one of significant growth, development and impact for the organisation. Our focus has remained on reducing social isolation, improving wellbeing and creating meaningful opportunities for connection, particularly amongst LGBTQ+ individuals and other socially isolated members of our community. Throughout the year we have continued to provide a wide range of activities including one-to-one support, Monday Mingle peer-support sessions, wellness programmes, orchard and gardening projects, practical skills workshops and therapeutic group activities. We have also extended our work within HMP Durham, delivering wellbeing and reflective practice sessions that have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants. The continued development of our community hub, orchard and garden project has enabled individuals to reconnect with nature, learn practical life skills and develop supportive social networks. These activities have provided opportunities for personal growth, confidence building and improved mental wellbeing. The organisation remains committed to developing a sustainable social enterprise model, using earned income generated through business support activities to help subsidise and expand our community services. This approach strengthens our long-term resilience whilst ensuring support remains accessible to those who need it most. The directors have continued to ensure that appropriate governance, financial management and operational controls are in place to support the effective running of the company. The directors acknowledge their responsibilities under the Companies Act 2006 for maintaining adequate accounting records and preparing financial statements that give a true and fair view of the company's affairs. As a Community Interest Company, Behind the Curtain (BTC) CIC remains committed to delivering activities that provide clear and measurable benefit to the community. The directors are satisfied that throughout the year the company has continued to operate in accordance with its stated community purpose, supporting individuals experiencing social isolation, poor wellbeing and barriers to meaningful social connection. I would like to thank our participants, volunteers, partners, funders and supporters whose commitment has helped us continue to grow our impact throughout the year. Particular thanks go to The National Lottery Community Fund and Postcode Lottery Trust for their investment in our work and belief in our vision. As we move into the next financial year, we will continue developing our community hub, expanding our garden and orchard projects, increasing opportunities for volunteering and strengthening our support services for LGBTQ+ individuals and other members of the community experiencing isolation and poor wellbeing. The directors believe the organisation is well placed to continue delivering positive social impact whilst building a sustainable foundation for future growth. The company will continue to balance social value creation with financial sustainability to ensure that community benefit remains at the heart of all activities undertaken.