With effect from last September, our Administrator, Katharine Stansfeld, resigned from the role after four successful years, during which she not only kept the Trust running, but also modernised and improved its policies and procedures. For the time being, the Trustees are handling the administrative tasks between them, but this is not sustainable, and we very much hope to be able to replace her with another volunteer. The Trust has never had a paid employee during all its 32-year existence and, if we did have to pay for administrative support, it would inevitably eat into reserves and further reduce the horizon over which we can maintain full support of the Anita Goulden Home.
Since stepping down, Katharine has made an extended trip to South America, during which she was able to visit the Home. We are looking forward to hearing her report of the visit on her return to the UK. Trustees believe that we owe it to our donors to provide regular oversight through on-the-spot visits to the Home by a Trustee or, as in this case, our representative.
During the year, the Chair of Trustees and the Treasurer have held online meetings with the local Committee. These have kept the Trust informed of conditions in Piura and at the Home and allowed us to provide advice to the Committee where appropriate.
There were two formal Trustees meetings during the year, but Trustees are in touch with each other informally almost constantly via email or online.
Our website is the main way we keep donors and supporters informed, via the online blog on the News page, and bring the Trust to the attention of potential new donors. We refreshed the site during the year, including the Donate page where we solicit donations directly and through JustGiving.
As we have done for several years, the Trust sent the Home a $1000 extra donation for Christmas. Part of this was covered by special Christmas donations from some of our supporters, for which we thank them. The donation will pay for Christmas and New Year celebrations for the residents and staff. A traditional “chocolatada” party with chocolate milk for the children, and a dinner for staff are among the highlights.
David Thomas – Chairman of Trustees – January 2025