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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: Attend the next drop-in: We’ll post the date soon. Volunteer your time or skills — whether that’s helping out at an event, supporting young people, or lending your voice to a campaign. Stay connected: Follow us on social media, check the website, or sign up to our mailing list. 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.

Under-12s Cup Final at William Collins Playing Field – Eldonian Community Trust, 17 May 2025 Saturday 17 May 2025 was more than a sunny afternoon of children’s football. It was a moment of togetherness — a celebration of who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going as a community. Since 1987, the Eldonian Community Trust has stood for opportunity, resilience, and collective strength. This Cup Final was a statement of intent: that we are back, stronger, and more committed than ever to our mission. Lord Chris Rennard and trustee Brian Jones watch on as the Under-12s final unfolds — a proud moment for the Eldonian Community Trust, marking the start of a renewed commitment to youth, sport, and community spirit. We came together — families, neighbours, young people, local coaches, volunteers, supporters, and trustees — at the William Collins Playing Field, right in the heart of our community. The weather couldn’t have been better: blue skies overhead, sunshine on the grass, and excitement in the air. From the moment the first whistle blew, it was clear that this was going to be something special. The first ever Eldonian Community Trust Cup Final, delivered in partnership with the Scotland Road & District Junior Football League, brought together two fantastic Under-12s teams: Sporting Club Merseyside and Townsey JFC. They gave it their all across two fast-paced, 30-minute halves — a match full of skill, energy, and real sportsmanship. In the end, Townsey JFC lifted the inaugural Eldonian Community Trust Cup after a brilliant team performance. But this was not a day of winners and losers. Every child who played received an individual medal and trophy — a gesture that recognises the hard work, discipline, and joy that youth sport brings to our young people’s lives. A young player takes a corner as families and supporters line the pitch at the first ever Eldonian Community Trust Cup Final The medals and cup were presented by our Chair, Lord Chris Rennard, who offered words that captured the moment: “It was great to present the prizes and to see so much young football talent amongst the players. It reminded me of playing for my church choir in Liverpool many years ago, but they were much better!” Players line up for their well-earned trophies at the Eldonian Community Trust Cup Final — a proud moment for every child, cheered on by families, friends, and the local community. The League also shared their reflections on the day: “This has been a brilliant day for the kids, their families, and the wider community. Working with the Eldonian Community Trust has already made a real difference, and we’re excited for what’s to come this summer.” And there is more to come! This event marks the start of a deeper partnership between the Trust and the League, and we’re now preparing for a five-week summer football camp for children and young people across the area. It will be open to all, with professional coaching, small tournaments, and the chance to be named our “Team of the Year” — selected not just on results, but on character, teamwork, and community values. As our Vice Chair, Maureen Price summed up: “This is what the Trust is here for — bringing people together, encouraging pride, and giving our young people something to believe in.” To everyone who made this day happen — the players, coaches, referees, volunteers, families, and friends — thank you. You reminded us what community looks like when it comes alive. And you reminded us of why the Eldonian Community Trust exists in the first place. We’re back. We’re here for our people. And together, we will grow — in strength, in purpose, and in hope.

Statement from the Eldonian Community Trust 10 April 2025 The Eldonian Community Trust wishes to inform the public of a recent development involving the Trust’s interest in Eldonian Leisure Ltd to ensure transparency and in accordance with our mission. Following a notification made to the Charity Commission regarding changes in share ownership of Eldonian Leisure Ltd shortly before our Annual General Meeting, the Commission has taken formal regulatory action under Section 76(3)(f) of the Charities Act 2011. This power allows the Commission to issue protective orders where there is a concern that property held on behalf of a charity may be at risk. As a result, the Commission has issued an order that includes the following limitations without prior Charity Commission approval: Sale and/or transfer or any other dealings of any assets and/or property held by Eldonian Leisure Limited Any dealings relating to the lease of the Eldonian Village Hall. Any dealings relating to shares of Eldonian Leisure Limited. The solicitation of money or property by Eldonian Leisure Limited The Commission’s order is a protective measure taken to safeguard charitable property while matters are under review, and it ensures that any property which may be held on charitable trust continues to be used solely for charitable purposes, in accordance with the law. We wish to express our sincere thanks to the Charity Commission for its prompt and careful response, and for its continuing support in helping to safeguard charitable assets. The Eldonian Community Trust remains fully committed to transparency, legal compliance, and to acting in the best interests of the community it serves. We will continue to engage openly with regulators and will provide updates as appropriate. For any questions or further clarification, community members and supporters are encouraged to contact us directly at secretary@eldonian.org. As always, we remain committed to keeping the community fully informed about developments and will provide further updates as necessary. We will continue to work closely with the Charity Commission and other relevant authorities to resolve the situation and ensure that the Trust’s assets are used in accordance with its charitable objectives. For media inquiries, please contact us at secretary@eldonian.org. Eldonian Community Trust Registered Charity Number: 519333

Liverpool Skyline - Eldonian Community Trust Thank You for Supporting the Eldonian Community Trust At the Eldonian Community Trust, we believe that real, lasting change begins with the people it affects most. With your support, we continue our mission to build a thriving and sustainable community rooted in the proud history of the Eldonian Village. Your generosity and involvement enable us to empower residents, collaborate with local businesses, and champion social and environmental initiatives that improve the quality of life for all. We are grateful for every contribution, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, as each plays a crucial role in making a difference. Our New Charitable Aims Community-Centred Growth: We actively involve residents in shaping the trust’s future through consultations and local initiatives. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride, we ensure that community needs and aspirations are heard and valued. Supporting Older Residents: We are dedicated to creating an environment where older residents can live with dignity, independence, and strong social connections. Through targeted support and engagement, we ensure they feel valued and included in community life. Empowering Young People: We create opportunities for young people to develop skills, confidence, and leadership abilities. Through education, recreation, and mentoring initiatives, we help them reach their full potential and become active contributors to the community. Advocating for Housing Needs: We work closely with local authorities, housing providers, and community partners to ensure residents can access safe, suitable, and affordable housing. We provide guidance and advocacy to help residents navigate housing challenges and refer them to statutory agencies when required. Appointment of New Trustees On 21st March 2025, with the support of the Charity Commission of England and Wales and the appointment of its Interim Manager, the members of the Eldonian Community Trust approved the appointments of its new vibrant, skilled, and committed trustees. Their leadership and dedication will help guide the Trust in fulfilling its mission and strengthening the community. Appointment of Leadership Roles We are pleased to announce the appointment of our key leadership positions which was approved by the board on 27th March 2025: Lord Chris Rennard as Chair Maureen Price  as Vice Chair Francis Sibert  as Treasurer Full Board of Trustees The full board of trustees consists of: Lord Chris Rennard Maureen Price Francis Sibert Brian Jones Oliver Cook KC Frances Hertzog William Little Frank Brady Susan Peters Kevin Gibbons Emma Foy Looking to the Future As we embark on this next chapter, we do so with optimism and determination. We recognise that the road ahead will not be without challenges, but with a dedicated leadership team and the unwavering support of our community, we are confident in our ability to build a brighter, stronger future. Together, we will navigate difficulties with resilience and professionalism, always striving to create a more inclusive, connected, and thriving Eldonian Village. Thank You for Making a Difference Every effort, big or small, strengthens our ability to build a more inclusive, connected, and supportive community. We invite you to stay engaged with our initiatives, share our mission with others, and continue working with us to create a brighter future for Eldonian Village. Together, we are building a better tomorrow. For updates on our projects and ways to get involved, stay connected with us!