42nd Annual General Meeting

At our 42nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 15 September 2025, the Trust reflected on the past year and looked towards the future.

Following a successful Wild Places Gathering held near Loch Lomond, where Members and supporters had the opportunity to hear from and chat to the Trust’s staff team and Trustees, our Members were invited to join us online for our 42^nd AGM.

Jane Smallman, Chair of the Trustee Board, welcomed attendees and explained that our AGM was held online again to maximise an inclusive approach, offering all Members the opportunity to participate in the AGM.

After reflecting on the early part of 2024 being a difficult time for the Trust, Jane thanked everyone for generously donating to our Vital Appeal, saying this support and encouragement arrived when it mattered most. She reported that careful financial monitoring, enhanced efforts on income generation and the generosity of donors meant the Trust ended the year better than budget, with cash reserves in the bank.

Chair's report

Jane talked about the Trust’s new strategic focus before chairing the 42^nd AGM, sharing some of the highlights of our work in 2024 and our focus in 2025.

• Watch the Chair’s report below.

https://youtu.be/a_WmW36BNhE?feature=shared

Finance report

Jane’s presentation was followed by Trustee and the Convenor of the Finance Committee Carol White, supported by Director of Finance and Resources Rob Buckman, who presented the Trust’s Finance Report.

Carol started by complimenting the staff team saying that the quality of information the Board receives is excellent. She said: “We remain in a challenging financial environment, but the finance function itself is now working at high level and is well supported by a highly receptive leadership team.”

• Watch the Finance Report below.

https://youtu.be/spsGPazAJvg?feature=shared

Special resolution passed

Jane announced new Trustee appointments and - following a vote - the Special Resolution to adopt the revised version of the 2021 Articles of Association was passed thanks to the Chair’s proxy votes.

Jane finished the meeting by reminding attendees that wild places are under constant threat; and the idea of wild places shaped primarily by natural process is fading from memory.

“This loss matters. We are determined to change that. As a charity we are operating in a challenging environment, and we will ensure best use of your contributions to achieve our charitable objectives.

“Finally, I would like to thank you on behalf of the Trust - your continued support is so important for the protection of wild places.”