Chairs report 2002-2003
In last years report I described the changes we had made to the organisations structure and management regime. I am pleased to say that one year on, these changes have proved to be successful and have been the basis of our continued expansion and improved service delivery. We now have a dynamic management group, leading a well-motivated and expanding workforce that is eager to take Adref forward to a future where we will provide a high quality service to a larger client group.
In February 2003, in conjunction with Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association and Merthyr Tydfil CBC, we opened our new direct access facility in the town and already it has been recognised as an invaluable resource in the area. A similar centre planned for Pontypridd has been somewhat delayed, but in partnership with Rhonda Cynon County Borough Council we hope to bring it on stream in 2004. Meanwhile our Night Shelter continues to provide a haven for the Town’s rough sleepers.
Our Supported Housing Division has also grown; we now provide floating support throughout Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff, and the Old Bakery continues to offer positive support to it’s residents. The introduction of generic working in this section has greatly improved efficiency and job satisfaction. This has put us in a position where we are actively studying the feasibility of opening “New Bakeries” in Rhondda and Merthyr Tydfil.
Adref’s Education and Employment section, recently appropriately named Aspire, is offering an excellent service to all of our clients, helping many take that crucial, often life changing first step into appropriate jobs and/or learning situations.
Additional funding has allowed us to increase our work in the training and subsequent utilisation of volunteers who are fast becoming a valuable resource to our organisation.
All this addition has increased the pressure on our hard working administration section as we continue to expand it is obvious that our administrative operation needs to evolve in line with the organisation. With this in mind, the Board will be considering our financial and accounting systems with a view to updating them to the extent that they will be able to cope with the projected growth of the organisation. We will be addressing the issue of voids with our partners.
In conclusion, I am happy to report that Adref is now in good shape and ready to meet the challenges of the future, but none of this would be possible without the hard work and commitment of everyone involved with the organisation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Council of Management, staff and volunteers for their hard work throughout the year and to assure them that the positive impact they have on the lives of our clients is very much appreciated. Finally, my thanks go out to all of Adref’s partners without whom we would not be able to provide our much-needed service.
Mike Price, Chair.
Charity No: 703130 - Company No: 2459797 - Email to garth.villas@virgin.net
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