My annual report provides an opportunity to reflect on what we have achieved over the past year and to outline the hall’s position at the close of this financial year. It highlights our progress, acknowledges the challenges we continue to face, and sets out our priorities for the year ahead.
The Trustees have once again demonstrated strong commitment to the charity, attending meetings regularly and taking an active role in decision-making. Over the past year, they have continued to strengthen governance by reviewing policies, improving oversight, and ensuring that all activity remains transparent and compliant with Charity Commission expectations.
The Trustees have worked closely with hirers, suppliers, and contractors to maintain high standards across the hall’s operations. Their collaborative approach has ensured that issues are addressed promptly and that the hall remains safe, welcoming, and well managed.
This year we have undertaken several major projects alongside general maintenance and improvements while ensuring the hall remains fully compliant and aligned with best practice.
Operational systems have been improved to enhance safety, cleanliness, and cost efficiency. These include clearer processes for hall checks, improved communication with hirers, and better scheduling of routine maintenance. A rolling programme of operational improvements is now in place for the coming year.
Several important reviews and maintenance projects have been commissioned and completed, including:
- A full audit of our Health and Safety policy
- Upgrading of our Electrical systems
- An up-to-date floor plan of the hall
- A full Fire Risk Assessment.
- A Fixed Wire Assessment
- A Water Risk Assessment
- A fire Door survey
These works have significantly improved the condition of the hall and reduced the risk of future repair costs.
Our Treasurer has provided a full breakdown of income and expenditure for the year, independently inspected and now ready for submission to the Charity Commission.
The accounts show a healthy increase in income, reflecting strong hall usage and careful financial management. At the same time, we have made substantial investment in the structure and appearance of the hall, ensuring that it remains fit for purpose.
Further planned investment is scheduled for 2026, focusing on essential maintenance, energy efficiency, and improvements that will benefit both hirers and the wider community.
We extend our thanks to the Treasurer, Bookkeeper, Booking Secretary, and our Independent Examiner for their diligence and support throughout the year.
We have welcomed several new groups to the hall this year, alongside the return of the Borough Green and Platt Players. While some groups have moved on due to relocation or financial pressures, overall usage remains strong and diverse.
We continue to support local events and charities, and we remain committed to offering the hall freely for key community occasions such as the Christmas lights switch-on and other village celebrations.
We are keen to strengthen our relationship with local organisations, including the Parish Council, and we reiterate our open invitation for any group to appoint a representative to join our committee.
Promoting the hall and the activities within it remains a priority, ensuring that residents know what is available and feel welcome to take part.
Our ongoing challenge is to maintain financial sustainability while delivering the planned programme of maintenance and improvements. Rising costs, particularly utilities and materials, require careful budgeting and forward planning.
We aim to deepen engagement with hirers and the wider community, ensuring that the hall continues to meet modern expectations while preserving its role as a valued village asset.
A key focus for the coming year will be balancing the needs and safety of hirers, the long-term improvement of the facility, and the responsible stewardship of the hall’s funds.
I would like to thank all our hirers for their continued support, and to express my appreciation to the Trustees, Committee Members, and Volunteers who give their time to run, maintain, and promote the hall.
We, the Trustees, reaffirm our commitment to ensuring a positive and sustainable future for the Village Hall. With continued community involvement and careful management, the hall will remain a vital and valued resource for many years to come.
B. Rawlins
BGVH Chairman
