Hello everyone,
It’s hard to believe we’re approaching the end of 2024—what a year it has been! My first full year as SCB’s Workshop and Charity Manager has been truly rewarding. I’ve had the privilege of building meaningful relationships with everyone connected to SCB—our incredible service users, dedicated staff, supportive trustees, wonderful parents and carers, and, of course, our valued customers.
I am fortunate to be supported by a talented and diverse group of trustees who dedicate so much of their time to ensure SCB continues to exceed expectations. Alongside them is our fantastic staff team led by Kareena, who give their all every day to support our service users, helping them grow, learn, and thrive. Managing SCB is not just a job; it’s an honour and a privilege.
A Year of Progress and Collaboration
While the workshop had a quieter start to the year, things really picked up in the spring. Through strengthening relationships, rekindling old connections, and welcoming new customers, we’ve provided our service users with diverse tasks that promote skill development and confidence.
Notable partnerships this year include the Little Green Paper Shop, whose environmentally friendly seeded paper has helped us all learn about sustainability while providing new challenges for our team. Our service users have risen to the occasion and excelled as always!
We’ve also continued our collaboration with trusted partners such as Daler-Rowney, packing crayons of various sizes, and Empties Please, labelling green printer cartridge bags. A particular highlight has been returning to bagging darts accessories for the first time in several years for Darts Corner—a task reignited by Luke Littler’s incredible success in the darts world, which brought us a wave of new orders.
Going the Extra Mile
This year, we were thrilled to see our trustee Adam go above and beyond in his support for SCB by running the Chester Half Marathon, raising over £1,000 in the process. His dedication embodies the spirit of generosity shown by everyone who has supported SCB this year.
From raffle and Lottery ticket purchases to online and in-person donations, every contribution has made a tangible difference. Special thanks must also go to our local Rotary Clubs for their generous donations, as well as the kind individuals who have sent cheques or cash donations.
We are truly grateful for every single penny that people entrust to us. Rest assured; we take great care in ensuring every contribution is reinvested back into the charity to provide meaningful support to those we serve. Thank you all for being such an essential part of SCB’s journey this year!
Looking to 2025
We were also sad to say goodbye to Richard Walton, who stepped down as Chairman of Trustees after years of dedicated service. However, we are excited for Adam to take on this important leadership role, and we are confident he will guide the trustees with passion and commitment. Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome our newest trustee, Helen Calvert, who brings a wealth of experience as a conflict prevention and de-escalation trainer and former Mental Health Nurse. Her expertise will undoubtedly enhance our work and contribute to the future success of SCB.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain optimistic about continuing to grow and adapt. While the new government’s budget may bring challenges for small charities like ours, it also presents opportunities. Local companies looking for cost-effective solutions during busy periods may find great value in partnering with SCB—a charity known for its excellence and attention to detail.
Supporting Our Service Users
The heart of our work will always be the enthusiasm, growth, and development of our talented service users. This year, we’ve been able to enhance our support with the addition of Learning Coordinator Libby. Her work has enriched our learning programme, helping service users strengthen skills like numeracy and problem-solving. These initiatives are paving the way for greater independence and personal growth.
We’re deeply grateful to our trustees for recognising the value of this initiative and making it a reality. Seeing the enthusiasm and progress of our service users is the most rewarding part of what we do.
Thank You
As 2024 draws to a close, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone—our service users, staff, trustees, parents, carers, customers, and supporters—who have contributed to SCB’s success this year. Your dedication and belief in our mission make all the difference.
Here’s to an exciting and successful 2025 for everyone at SCB and beyond!
Warm regards,
Alex
Workshop and Charity Manager, SCB