By Jean Hollings
With over 500 shareholders who are entitled to attend and vote, Bramley Baths trustees held their AGM at The Villagers Community Club.
The event, on Tuesday, 8 September, was preceded by a silent disco with glow sticks which gave a great energy for the meeting ahead.
The meeting was opened by co-chair Jamie-Jones Buchanan by giving an overview of the agenda.
Treasurer Rajeev Dewedi presented the accounts and noted that the Baths has achieved a notable milestone – over £1 million turnover and a healthy reserve. They are continuing to apply for various funding to restore the building and make the heritage building more sustainable and fit for future generations.
The formal part of the agenda was where shareholders were asked to approve the accounts and appoint auditors for the forth coming year by a show of hands.
Chief Executive David Wilford thanked trustees and team members for their extraordinary work. He said: “Being community-led ownership, we try to do what people want – we feed back and keep them in loop. If we are unable too, we explain why.”
Each of the trustees spoke about their experiences of being a trustee and making a difference. Cassie Fountain, having served as a trustee for nine, years was stepping down. Steph thanked her for her support and guidance. She was presented with a bouquet of flowers and a gift.
Afterwards Cassie stated that she had found ‘the Baths’ during one summer of being in between jobs with two young children. She sometimes walked twice a day from Calverley to attend activities to use her summer tickets. She was made to feel welcome.
This impacted her so much as when she saw an advertisement to become a board member she applied. It was her way of giving back and using her skills as a town planner. She will remain involved as an advisor to the Baths Heritage planning and development.
Steph Taylor, co-chair, spoke about her role and the values of the Bramley Baths and reflected on being community owned. She spoke about accessing green spaces – where they have classes outdoors and have planted more trees in the community garden – and increased involvement with youngsters thanks to ‘Lego’ sessions and a junior gym.
The number of volunteers has increased and the board is looking at developing the Friends of Bramley Baths. The staff modelled their new colour co-ordinated uniforms and other Bramley Baths merchandise which can be purchased on site.
Jamie Jones-Buchanan, who lives in Bramley, concluded the meeting with an inspirational personal reflection and the final quote summarised his feelings.
“The creativity of the team already provides expressive opportunities to swim, exercise, learn, volunteer, celebrate our heritage, enjoy unique events and simply belong. ‘Wholesome and fulfilled’ are the words that come to mind when I think about my own experiences of using my local Bramley Baths.
“Our responsibility is to be excellent custodians for the next generation, while continuing to evolve for an ever-changing future. With the continued support of our staff, members, shareholders and wider community, Bramley Baths can remain a beacon for Bramley and an example of what community ownership can achieve across the city.
“We truly are ‘more than just a pool’.”
Read more of WLD‘s coverage of Bramley Baths here.
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