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Rhys Jones in today's Liv Post Article Today, The Post published a feature exploring the history of the Eldonian Village and the events of recent years. The story highlights the strength and determination shown by members of the local community, including our secretary and trainee priest, Rhys Jones, who became involved after supporting residents who wished to better understand governance matters affecting the village. What has emerged over time is a powerful example of community engagement, residents asking questions, seeking clarity, and working constructively to ensure that the future of the village reflects its founding values. Following concerns raised within the community, the Charity Commission for England and Wales opened a statutory inquiry. A new board of trustees was subsequently appointed to strengthen governance and ensure the organisation operates transparently and in accordance with its charitable objectives. Today, the Eldonian Community Trust is focused entirely on its mission: serving the residents of the Eldonian Village and delivering meaningful community activities that support children, families, and older residents alike. Lord Chris Rennard MBE, Chair of the Eldonian Community Trust, said: “Rhys Jones has shown extraordinary determination, persistence, and courage in bringing these issues into the open. His integrity has shone out every step of the way as he has been revealing the facts that others wanted to keep quiet. Only through his efforts are we now ensuring that the concerns of residents are being heard properly. A community has been deprived of the assets given to it by the Archdiocese and by public bodies. We want to restore hope. The Eldonian Village has a long and proud history as a community built by its residents. The priority now for the trustees is to ensure that the charity moves forward with strong governance and a renewed focus on serving the people of the village.” Rhys Jones, Secretary to the Board of Trustees said: “This story was never about me. It began because people in the Eldonian Village — many of whom I have known all my life — were worried about their community and wanted answers. I simply tried to help find those answers. People like Maureen Price showed enormous courage in speaking up, and there were many others who supported the effort quietly behind the scenes and have remained in the shadows. Their determination to protect the community they built is what really made the difference. What matters now is that the Eldonian Community Trust can move forward and focus again on supporting the residents it was created to serve.” Trustees Brian Jones, William Little and Maureen Price with a Resident Read Today's Article Here!

A fantastic week of football, partnership and community pride. Photo: Kris D’Août This half term, the Eldonian Community Trust was proud to host a vibrant and energetic football tournament that brought young people together from across the estate. The pitches were alive with excitement from the very first game, with players showing determination, skill and a genuine love for the sport. The tournament was professionally facilitated by Forward Thinking Coaching, whose coaches delivered high-quality sessions throughout the week. Their structure, enthusiasm and commitment ensured that every child was supported, challenged and encouraged to give their best. The standard of coaching was clear to see in the confidence and development of the players as the week progressed. We were also delighted to work alongside the Scotland Road & Junior District Football League, whose continued support of grassroots football plays a vital role in creating opportunities for young people locally. Their involvement helped make the tournament both competitive and inclusive, reflecting the best of community football. Photo: Kris D’Août Special thanks must also go to Custy's FC and No 9 FC for their participation and encouragement, and to Liverpool City Council for their support in helping make the event possible. Partnerships like these demonstrate what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared commitment to young people. Beyond the goals and results, what stood out most was the atmosphere. Players encouraged one another, celebrated together and showed real respect on and off the pitch. For many of the children, this was more than just a tournament — it was a chance to build confidence, form new friendships and be part of something positive during the school break. At the Eldonian Community Trust, we believe that investing in youth sport strengthens the whole community. This half term tournament is just one example of how collaboration, structure and opportunity can make a lasting difference. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to create safe, inspiring spaces for our young people to thrive. Photo: Kris D’Août

Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Board of Trustees today announces that His Honour Judge Mark Halliwell has issued a judgment in response to Anthony McGann’s application for permission to appeal an earlier decision of the High Court, in which the winding-up petition he presented against the Charity was dismissed. Judge Halliwell ruled: “Permission to appeal is refused on the basis that an appeal would have no real prospect of success and there is no other reason, compelling or otherwise, as to why such an appeal should be heard.” The issue of costs was also addressed. The Charity, through its barrister, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, made submissions as to why Mr McGann should be ordered to pay the Charity’s legal costs. Judge Halliwell ruled: “Mr McGann must pay the Company’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £7,852 plus VAT if the Company is unregistered for VAT. He must also pay the Charity Commission’s costs summarily assessed on the indemnity basis in the sum of £1,586.25. He must make a payment to the Foundation in the sum of £20,325. Subject to any immediate submissions to the contrary, payment must be made within 14 days.” The Trustees wish to thank all those who have supported the Charity since their appointment in March 2025. The Charity has now successfully defended itself in the High Court, and the Trustees are turning their attention to the future, focused on protecting and advancing the interests of those for whom the Charity exists. The Charity can also provide an update on a separate claim brought by Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd in the County Court at Liverpool. The Company issued a claim alleging that the Charity had agreed to a consultancy arrangement, which purportedly resulted in a debt of £25,500. Following directions from the County Court, the Charity submitted a witness statement setting out its position in relation to the alleged debt. Shortly thereafter, Shaun Smith Enterprises Ltd contacted the Charity, and the claim was subsequently discontinued. As a result, the Charity has no outstanding claims to defend and has successfully concluded its High Court proceedings. Maureen Price, Vice Chair of the Charity, said: “This is a real achievement for a Charity which, in March 2025, had just £42 in a frozen bank account. Without the steadfast support of those who stood by us, the Charity may no longer exist. We wish to place particular emphasis on, and express our sincere thanks to, Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, who represented the Charity with exceptional skill, commitment, and courage.” Lord Christopher Rennard MBE, Chair of the Charity, added: “This judgment reflects the determination and hard work of everyone involved in securing the Charity’s future. Our focus now turns to growth and renewal. We are excited about what lies ahead and confident in what we can achieve.”

Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Eldonian Community Trust acknowledges the recent announcement by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) that it has closed its Regulatory Compliance case into the Eldonian Community Based Housing Association (ECBHA). While we respect the Regulator’s role, the Charity does not support the decision to close the case at this time. For several years, residents of Eldonian Village have raised serious concerns about governance, accountability, and the absence of an effective, independent board structure to oversee decisions affecting their homes and community. These concerns remain unresolved, and many residents feel they have not yet been given the transparency and reassurance they deserve. As the community’s charitable body, we believe that Eldonian residents should have clear routes to challenge decisions, seek explanations, and have confidence that proper oversight is being applied to organisations operating in their name. Lord Chris Rennard MBE, Chair of the Eldonian Community Trust, has therefore raised parliamentary questions to the Government regarding resident protections and the mechanisms available to challenge regulatory decisions. He said: “Residents must be able to trust the governance of the organisations that serve them. When long-standing concerns remain unaddressed, it is vital that people feel they have the right and the means to challenge decisions that affect their lives. Confidence in oversight matters. That is why I have asked the Government to reflect on whether the current system gives residents the protections they need.” Photo: Christopher Thomond (the Guardian) The Eldonian Community Trust will continue to stand with local residents in seeking transparency, robust governance, and accountable leadership in all organisations operating in Eldonian Village. We remain committed to supporting residents and ensuring their voices are central in any process that affects their community. If you are an Eldonian resident seeking advice or support, please contact us directly through our website or at our regular community drop-ins.

This month marked an important milestone for our community. The Guardian  has today published a feature exploring the story of how the Eldonian Community Trust emerged from a difficult period and secured its future. The piece follows the journey from uncertainty to renewed purpose, and highlights the people who helped guide the charity through a critical moment. Trustees Maureen Price, Brian Jones and William Little being photographed in Eldonian Village as part of The Guardian’s coverage of the Trust. When a winding-up petition was brought before the High Court earlier this year, the Trust faced the real possibility of closure. With limited resources and a frozen bank account, the odds were not in our favour. Yet, with the support of our community, volunteers, and expert advisers working pro bono, the Trust was able to defend itself — and continue its work for Eldonian Village and Vauxhall. The Guardian article captures more than a legal outcome. It reflects the resilience of a neighbourhood determined not to see its hard-won institutions disappear; and the belief that public-spirited organisations, under proper stewardship, can still prosper. “Tremendous admiration is due to everyone who has shown bravery, skill and persistence in revealing the serious wrongdoing done to this Liverpool community. A page was turned this year, and the new Trustees are all grateful to those who have researched the facts to show what has been going on. The wrong community was chosen if it was thought that it would lie down and accept having been unfairly stripped of its assets. The investigative journalism involved shows how the media can be at its best in serving the public, and others should follow this example. I fear this may not be an isolated example concerning charity assets. Well done to the Liverpool Post and to The Guardian.” Lord Christopher Rennard MBE, Chair of Trustees Today, the Eldonian Community Trust is rebuilding. A new Board is in place; governance has been strengthened; and plans are being developed to restore services and re-establish activities for residents of all ages. The Trust is working constructively with regulators, partners, and donors as it looks to the future. We are grateful to everyone who has supported us, from those who quietly offered a message of encouragement, to the volunteers who gave their time, to the advisers who stepped in when we needed them most. We pay particular thanks to Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens who represented the Charity pro bono . Without his unwavering commitment to our future, there was a real possibility that the Charity would not be here today. The Guardian article tells part of this story. The next chapter is ours to write — together. 🔗 Read The Guardian article here

Trustees: Brian Jones, Maureen Price and Susan Peters pictured in an Article by The Post. Photo: Kris D’Août The Eldonian Community Trust notes today’s article published by The Liverpool Post  regarding recent developments within the Charity and the wider Eldonian community. We appreciate the public interest in understanding the progress made since the appointment of a wholly new Board of Trustees earlier this year. Our Chair, Lord Chris Rennard, has issued the following statement: “Great credit is due to the bravery and determination of this community to fight back and turn a new page in its history. A wholly new team of Trustees was elected at an AGM in March that was organised by the Charity Commission. We are determined to restore hope and look to the future.” Trustees walk together under umbrellas on a rainy day, as featured in The Post article. Photo: Kris D’Août Since the AGM in March 2025—held under the oversight of the Charity Commission—the new Trustees have focused on stabilising governance, strengthening transparency, and rebuilding the Charity’s internal structures. This has included sustained engagement with regulators and legal advisers, renewed efforts to safeguard community assets, the re-establishment of proper financial and governance systems, and meaningful outreach to residents through meetings and community events. These steps form part of a wider programme designed to restore confidence, ensure accountability, and reinforce the Charity’s long-standing place at the heart of the Eldonian community. The Trust welcomes fair and accurate reporting about its work. Public dialogue and accountability play an important role in the renewal of any charity, particularly one with such a deep historical connection to its community. For ongoing updates about our programmes, governance reforms, and community initiatives, please continue to follow the Eldonian Community Trust through our official channels. A Link to today's article can be accessed here:

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 Dear Residents, We are aware that the Eldonian Community Based Housing Association (ECBHA) has stated its intention to obtain vacant possession of the Eldonian Village Hall on 15 November 2025 from Eldonian Leisure Ltd, which was formerly a wholly owned subsidiary of the Charity. The Eldonian Community Trust is in active communication with the Regulator of Social Housing, the Charity Commission, and Liverpool City Council regarding this matter. We are seeking to ensure that the position is fully understood and that the community’s charitable interests are properly protected. If you have any concerns or information you wish to share, please feel free to contact one of the Trustees directly, or email us at secretary@eldonian.org . Any concerns raised can be treated in confidence if requested. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Eldonian Community Trust Limited

Sunday 2nd November 2025 This is an important update on the Winding-Up Petition brought against the Charity by Mr Anthony Edward McGann.   The Trustees are pleased to report that on Friday (31 October 2025), the petition to wind up the charity was dismissed by His Honour Judge Halliwell. The judgement was delivered in open court.  It follows the hearing held in the High Court of Justice (Manchester Business and Property Court) last month on 14th October.   The petition has now been formally dismissed. The Trustees have been advised that the Charity is entitled to seek recovery of its legal costs in relation to this. Until now, the winding up petition has restricted the day to day functioning of the Charity.  The petition seeking to wind up the charity was filed in December 2024.   The Trustees are grateful for the support and patience shown by residents during this difficult period and will now focus on the continued renewal of community services and facilities. The new Trustees for the Charity were appointed in March this year following the intervention of the Charity Commission which had appointed Interim Managers to convene an AGM and elect them.   Since then, the new Trustees have been in very active discussion with the Charity Commission. The Commission had launched a “Statutory Inquiry” into the affairs of the Eldonian Community Trust Limited on 21st August 2024.  This Statutory Investigation is continuing. Accounts have now also been filed with Companies House.   As we look again to the future, and what can now be done, the Trustees are holding an information evening for residents. If you are able to attend, please do. 📅  Date:  Friday, 14 November 2025 🕖  Time:  7:00 p.m. 📍  Venue:  Our Lady of Reconciliation de la Salette Church, Eldon Street Kind Regards, The Board of Trustees Eldonian Community Trust Limited

Friday, 3 October 2025 Eldonian Community Trust Limited (the “Charity”) is presently the subject of winding-up proceedings in the High Court of Justice, Manchester Business and Property Court. The matter has been listed for hearing on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, at 10:00 a.m. At that hearing, the Charity will be represented in person by Mr Daniel Crowley of 2 Temple Gardens, London. For the avoidance of doubt, no determination has yet been made by the Court. The Trustees will convene a residents’ update meeting following judgment to provide accurate information as to the outcome. The case details are as follows: High Court of Justice of England and Wales Business and Property Courts Manchester District Registry Case Title: Anthony Edward McGann v Eldonian Community Trust Limited Date and Time: Tuesday, 14 October 2025, 10:00 a.m. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Eldonian Community Trust Limited Disclaimer: This notice is provided strictly for general information purposes. It does not constitute, and must not be relied upon as, legal, professional, or financial advice. No responsibility or liability is accepted by the Charity or its Trustees for any reliance placed upon this notice by any third party. For the avoidance of doubt, nothing in this notice shall be taken as a waiver of, or prejudice to, any rights or remedies available to the Charity or its Trustees, all of which are expressly reserved.

Wednesday, 10 September 2025 Dear Residents, We are aware of recent correspondence circulated by Councillor(s) Lisa Gaughn and Assan Christov concerning the former Trinity Primary School site. This information is new to us, and we are taking steps to understand the position fully. As part of this, we are notifying the relevant statutory authorities, including Liverpool City Council and the Charity Commission, about reports of a potential sale. We want to reassure you that the Charity is committed to protecting assets that are, or have been, held for charitable purposes. Where ther e are concerns about the way such property has been dealt with, we will do everything within our powers to ensure that the Charity’s interests, and the community’s interests, are safeguarded. If you have any concerns or information you wish to share, please feel free to contact one of the Trustees directly, or email us at secretary@eldonian.org . Any concerns raised can be treated in confidence if requested. On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Eldonian Community Trust Limited

On Saturday 17 May 2025, something meaningful took place at Our Lady of Reconciliation Church in the heart of our community. It wasn’t a major announcement or a ribbon-cutting ceremony — it was something far simpler, and arguably far more important. It was a conversation. Our first Eldonian Community Trust drop-in meeting gave local residents the opportunity to meet the newly appointed board of trustees — the people now responsible for guiding the future of the charity — and to share their concerns, their hopes, and their ideas for our community. It was the first time in a long while that the Trust had opened its doors, not just to explain plans or report on progress, but to listen. And that’s exactly what we did. A Fresh Start Our Lady of Reconciliation Church opened its doors for the first community drop-in hosted by the new board of trustees. Our Lady of Reconciliation Church opened its doors for the first community drop-in hosted by the new board of trustees — with the warm welcome and support of Fr Richard Ebo, the parish priest, whose presence and encouragement meant a great deal to all who attended. As many in the community know, the Eldonian Community Trust has been through a difficult few years. Following regulatory concerns, governance challenges, and a period of serious uncertainty, a new board of trustees was formally appointed in March 2025 at an Annual General Meeting hosted by the Charity Commission's Interim Managers. Since then, we’ve been working hard to rebuild the Trust — not just in paperwork or policy, but in trust, transparency, and relationships with the people we serve. This drop-in meeting was the first public step in that rebuilding journey. We chose Our Lady of Reconciliation Church not just because it’s a well-known and well-loved space in the area, but because it’s a place where people feel welcome, safe, and able to speak freely. That spirit carried into the meeting, where attendees sat with trustees over a cup of tea and spoke from the heart. What We Heard What emerged from these conversations was not a list of complaints, but a deep concern for the wellbeing of the Eldonian community — and a shared desire to see it thrive once again. Some residents raised serious concerns about housing conditions, particularly issues like damp, repairs, and a lack of communication from housing providers. These are challenges affecting many families in the area, and we want to be clear about our role as a charity. While the Eldonian Community Trust does not own or manage any housing, we know just how important safe, secure homes are to people’s wellbeing — and we hear the frustration when things go wrong. That’s why we’re committed to doing what we can to support residents. This includes listening to concerns, helping people understand their rights, signposting to the right services, and where appropriate, advocating on their behalf. We’re also working to build stronger relationships with housing associations and relevant authorities so that the voices of residents are heard — and taken seriously. We also heard from parents and grandparents who are worried about young people in the area. With limited activities, sports, or structured programmes outside school, there’s a growing fear that too many children are being left without safe, positive outlets for their energy and potential. At the same time, we listened to older residents who spoke of loneliness and isolation — especially since COVID — and their desire for more opportunities to connect, contribute, and feel valued. There was a lot of honesty. There was some frustration. But most of all, there was hope — and a real willingness from residents to be part of shaping the next chapter of the Eldonian story. A Board That Listens As trustees, our role isn’t just to oversee the charity — it’s to be present, accountable, and in touch with the community we represent. The drop-in made that clear, and it reminded us of why we stepped into these roles in the first place. Lord Chris Rennard, Chair of the Trust, said: “There is much justifiable anger about the loss of many local facilities. The Charity — which is entirely separate from the Housing Association — is now under new leadership. The former directors have been replaced, and we are here to listen and work with everyone in the community for good charitable purposes. We’re also very grateful to the Charity Commission for their support in helping us move forward.” Looking Forward Some of Our Members gathered outside Our Lady of Reconciliation Church after the drop-in — a strong show of community spirit and shared commitment to shaping the future together. As a result of this meeting, we’ve already begun mapping out several areas where the Trust can make a tangible impact. Brian Jones, fellow trustee and long-standing community advocate, added: “These kinds of conversations are vital. We’re not here to guess what people want — we’re here to ask, to listen, and to act. That’s how we build trust, and that’s how we move forward together.” We’re actively exploring new youth programmes, including potential partnerships with the Scotland Road & District Junior Football League, who we recently worked with to deliver the first Eldonian Community Trust Cup Final. This could include a summer football camp, mentoring sessions, and leadership activities for boys and girls of mixed ages. We’re also engaging with external organisations and public bodies to help amplify the voices of residents affected by housing issues, ensuring those in power hear the concerns raised and take meaningful steps in response. In the coming weeks, we hope to publish an initial “community priorities framework”, shaped by what we heard during the drop-in, and designed to guide our work over the next year. This will cover key themes such as housing advocacy, youth support, elderly wellbeing, and community engagement. And crucially, we’re committing to regular community drop-ins, all to be held at Our Lady of Reconciliation Church, with dates announced well in advance. These will take place monthly, which will give residents the opportunity to speak to the Trust, to seek guidance and support and we hope more and more residents will join us to keep the conversation going. How You Can Get Involved We can’t do this alone. The success of this charity depends on the involvement of the community — not just in showing up, but in helping shape our mission. Here’s how you can help: 1. Attend the next drop-in: We’ll post the date soon. 2. Volunteer your time or skills — whether that’s helping out at an event, supporting young people, or lending your voice to a campaign. 3. Stay connected: Follow us on social media, check the website, or sign up to our mailing list. 4. Talk to us: If you’ve got an idea, a concern, or something you want to share, we want to hear from you. Thank You To everyone who came to the first drop-in: thank you. Your honesty, warmth, and willingness to engage has set the tone for everything to come. This is your Trust. And we’re here — not just to run it, but to build it with you.

Discover the Eldonian Community Trust's Memorandum and Articles of Association.