FYA Annual Report 2018 - 2019

CHAIR PERSON’S REPORT
5
Fitzrovia Youth in Action
Annual Report and Accounts 2018-2019
Our second strategic priority is to improve how we evaluate the impact of our work. Over the
last year we have rolled out a new monitoring and evaluation framework using validated tools
to explore how our model of youth led community action is making a difference to those who
take part. In this report, we share the impact of our model on young people’s wellbeing, sense of
belonging and skills development. I would like to thank the staff team in particular for their work in
developing and implementing this framework.
Outside of our monitoring work, FYA was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in
June 2019, the highest award given to voluntary organisation in the UK to recognise volunteering
which has significantly benefitted others. We were also shortlisted as a finalist for the 2018 Children
& Young People Now Award in the category of Youth Volunteering and Social Action.
Our third priority is around developing our capacity and resources, including diversifying our
income base. While the Warren pitch has brought in new funds over the last few years, fundraising
continues to be a challenge. We are open to developing different kinds of partnerships which,
while not taking us away from our core mission, may also result if new income streams. In addition,
we have strengthened our staff appraisal system. Where possible, we encourage the professional
development of our staff team as well as offering work opportunities to young FYA members. At
board level, we are currently undertaking a review to ensure that the board of trustees is acting as
effectively as possible to enable the organisation to meet all its strategic objectives.
Young people in Camden face enormous challenges and we read about these every day. But
this is only part of the story. If you are reading this report, why not take a look one of the films
made by our peer educators, or take a moment out of your day to visit the Warren, or even
better, talk to one of our community action groups about the change they are making in the
borough. FYA young people are truly inspiring and it is a huge privilege to play a small role in
creating opportunities for them.
Thank you to the whole staff team for all your work, and to my fellow trustees. It is a joy to work
with you all.
Anne Shewring
Chairperson
For more information about our 2019/20 Strategic Plan, visit fya.org.uk/strategic-plan/