Manager's report for the financial year 2014/15
We started 2014/15 even busier than the previous year, with our number of deliveries up by 7.5% for the first 6 months; the Local Welfare Scheme funds then ran out and this had an impact on the number of referrals we received. As a result, we finished the year slightly down on the previous year but we still delivered furniture, electrical appliances and carpets to 854 families and individuals.
During the year, we had the help of 24 volunteers and we also gave placements to several Job Centre claimants and Community Offenders. The amount of time and effort our volunteers give to help others never ceases to amaze me. They work tirelessly to ensure that Turntable can continue to operate in the way it does and I cannot thank them enough. Five of our volunteers moved on to full-time employment and a further two have started part-time employment and still come in to Turntable to help out afterwards!
Despite the increasing number of charity shops in Exeter that sell furniture now, I am extremely grateful that we are still able to meet most of the needs of our clients, thanks to the generosity of the people of Exeter and surrounding areas. We continue to struggle to obtain sufficient electrical items, carpets and large chests of drawers to meet demand and I think that is the same for many furniture charities around the country.
Given the impact the public sector cuts are having on the poorest in our society, it is increasingly crucial that Turntable continues to operate in the same way, keeping its charges as low as possible. To date we have been able to do this thanks to the grants we have received from Exeter City Council, Mid Devon District Council, East Devon District Council and the grant making trusts who so generously support us – I am so appreciative of their ongoing support.
Pam Rice
Manager
