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2024-03-31-accounts

Charity Registration No. 1012485

Company Registration No. 2722134 (England and Wales)

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Sir M Hedley (Chair)
Mr M Best
Mr S R Cormack (appointed 28th February 2024)
Ms M Cover
Mr N Galloway
Mr R Jones MBE
Mrs J Timms OBE
Mr R A Wright
Secretary & Chief Executive Ms R Waters
Charity number 1012485
Company number 2722134
Registered office Tower House
1 Tower Road
Birkenhead
Wirral
CH41 1FF
Auditor Mitchell Charlesworth (Audit) Limited
Suite 5.1
Tempest
12 Tithebarn Street
Liverpool
L2 2DT
Bankers National Westminster Bank Plc
32 Market Street
Leigh
Lancashire
WN7 1DX
Investment advisors RBC Brewin Dolphin
1 The Avenue
Spinningfields Square
Manchester
M3 3AP

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE CONTENTS

Page
Chairman's statement 1
Trustees' report 2 - 12
Statement of trustees' responsibilities 13
Independent auditor's report 14 - 17
Statement of financial activities 18 - 19
Balance sheet 20
Statement of cash flows 21
Notes to the financial statements 22 - 41

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Introduction to NYAS Annual Report 2024- by Sir Mark Hedley Chair of NYAS:

I am very proud of NYAS as it stands today and its beginnings. Originating 45 years ago, pioneering independent advocacy for children and young people going through care-related court proceedings, NYAS as we know it today, was born in 1992 and now proudly stands as the largest provider of independent advocacy services and a leading children’s rights charity.

There remains much work to do to ensure all children, young people and adults in vulnerable situations have their wishes and feelings heard, understood, and acted upon. The number of children and young people entering the care system each year continues to rise and the impact of the trauma they experience persists. During this accounting period, we have tirelessly campaigned and engaged with Governments to bring about positive change for care-experienced children and young people. Some key highlights include:

The need for our services continues to grow. The continued cost of living crisis, on the back of the recovery from the pandemic, has continued disproportionately to impact children and young people in care and vulnerable adults. NYAS services and dedicated helpline have continued to expand, to meet this increased demand. Our legal team also acts for children caught in intractable family disputes involving the adults who care for them, usually parents. NYAS has developed considerable specific expertise across the sector, which is now widely recognised amongst local authorities, UK and Welsh government departments and the Family Court, as well as other charities involved with children and young people.

As we reported last year there have been significant financial challenges over the year. However, our revenue has grown over that period, and we have shown better than expected results. This has been done not only by negotiating price increases in our contracts and expanding their range but also through expert financial management, assisted by a recognition amongst all budget-holders that sound finances really matter and must be achieved.

Of course, financial challenges remain and are likely to do so for so long as restraint dominates the policies of our public finances. However, as a charity with well over twice as many volunteers as paid staff, we remain able to deliver key services at the grassroots even when money is very tight.

Our report sets out in detail both the work that we have been doing and also what still needs to be done, along with our financial position. We are going to conduct a skills analysis of our Board of Trustees, where we have already strengthened our business acumen and hope to recruit in other areas. We remain optimistic that NYAS has a positive contribution to make to some of the neediest members of our society, who are also the only ones expected to be independent whilst teenagers.

.............................. Sir Mark Hedley Chairman

Date: .........................

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“You were my voice today, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you so much”

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)".

2023 - 2024 continued to see NYAS further adapting to an agile working model across Scotland, England and Wales. We continue to support our local communities by taking space in community hubs when required. Our working model going forward is a blended approach of hybrid, home and face to face working to suit commissioners, staff and, most importantly, the individuals we support.

2023 - 2024 saw NYAS Cymru continue its services and staff with an annual income of £2.4m in 2023 – 2024 (£2.4m in 2022 – 2023).

NYAS Cymru’s Project Unity programme of support for young mothers at risk of losing their children into the care system continues with its success and our aim is to see this award-winning support programme rolled out across England and Scotland over the next financial year and beyond.

“Project Unity is doing amazing work across the whole of Wales, and we can clearly see the difference that the intensive support is making to the lives of young women and their children.” - Welsh Government

“Project Unity helped me to get to the place where I could be the best mum I could be, as well as giving me the support to build my self-esteem and confidence in dealing with different statutory agencies.” Parent.

The year ending 31st March 2024 continued to see an increase in revenue of 5% compared to year ending 31st March 2023, with total revenue of £10,774,395. This is due to the retention and extension of existing contracts, as well as new contract gains. Key areas of growth in 2023 - 2024 continue to be in the provision of Reg 44 inspections, mental health advocacy, parental advocacy and the ‘active offer’ of advocacy across Wales, witnessing a growth in the number of young people receiving advocacy upon entering the care system in Wales.

The value of tenders awarded in 2023-2024 is £1,475,082 with an overall increase in whole term value of tenders of 29% when compared to 2022 – 2023. Of the 16 tenders awarded during 2023 – 2024 six were for new business and ten were retenders. Grant success of £828,130 was achieved during the year which will enable NYAS to continue in its mission to improve on delivering its charitable aims.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Background

At NYAS, we believe that every child and young person should be heard, feel safe and be involved in decisions being made about their lives.

We do this by delivering high quality rights-based socio-legal services to children, young people and vulnerable adults. These rights are set out in domestic law and international convention, in particular the provisions of the Children Act 1989, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

NYAS strives to ensure the rights of children and young people are upheld and will be ‘always on the side of the child’.

“I didn't feel anxious as I usually do you made me feel calm as you greeted me with a smile, you made me feel happy when we left as you were so smiley”. - Young Person to NYAS Cymru Advocate

NYAS delivers its services across England, Wales (NYAS Cymru) and parts of Scotland. NYAS Cymru statutory contracts and grants continue to increase mainly due to the number of young people accessing advocacy as their right upon entering the care system, under the ‘active offer’ of advocacy.

“Use this service because it helps. When you go into a meeting with an Advocate it is a very different experience, and things happen.” – young person accessing advocacy in NYAS Cymru

NYAS Cymru offers an award-winning programme of support to parents with children at risk of entering the care system. This support is offered under the ‘Project Unity’ programme, recognised and funded through Welsh Government.

“We have been through hell and back with Social Services” – It was hard, but having you made things easier to understand and talk to. We know now why they had to be there but are happy they have gone now. Thank you for helping us to understand things and be our voice” – Parent

It is our intention during the next financial year to secure a firm commitment from the Welsh Government to continue the funding for this essential and life-changing programme of support. NYAS will also look to work to secure funding to roll this out across England and Scotland.

“Parents feel very lost. If it wasn’t for Parent Advocacy I would still be lost in the system and my child would not be settled” Parent accessing Project Unity support.

‘SidebySide’ continues to grow, supported through grants and trusts and dividends on investments. NYAS is committed to supporting care leavers in the first – and crucially important – twelve months as they transition from care to semi-independent or independent living. 2023 – 2024 saw ‘SidebySide’ being further expanded into other local authority areas as well as funding being received through DfE (via Norfolk local authority). This is an excellent partnership for NYAS and we will continue to nurture and expand other routes to roll out this critical support programme across all three countries in which we operate.

“When I hit 18, all support stopped. Suddenly I was being signposted from pillar to post but everyone seemed to be palming me off. Nobody wanted to put the time in to help me. I feel like you need more steppingstones before everything just falls away” – young person

Our life-changing bursary scheme for care-leavers in England, the Knapman fund, has seen a continued increase in demand this year of 17%, with 83 applications in 2023, compared to 71 in 2022. The fund has supported careleavers by purchasing driving lessons, furniture for their new accommodation, clothing for job interviews, bicycles for transportation, white goods, therapy and support for costs associated with education, training or employment opportunities.

“It was the most stressful and difficult time of my life. I had officially aged out the system as I was freshly 18. I had to move into my flat with very few of my belongings” – Ashley, 21-year-old care leaver.

A Knapman fund bursary allowed Ashley to find stability in her life and gain her independence: “My flat and my job now is the most stability I have had in my 21 years of life. My house is the longest place I have lived in without having to move abruptly. I am so happy and SO THANKFUL for your help. Every day I’m reminded of the kindness you guys have showed me. Thank you again!”

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Our corporate partnership between NYAS Cymru and Deloitte is going from strength to strength. The impact of Deloitte’s support has been life-changing: including a complete garden renovation of the Grange Pavilion Hub, where many children in care work with NYAS Cymru staff; the donation of over 150 Christmas gifts to children in care given out on Christmas Day and the establishment of the Deloitte fund, a dedicated bursary scheme for careleavers in Wales. Funding provides bursaries for care leavers in Wales who may need support with leaving care or resources for engaging with training, education, or employment opportunities.

Liam (17 years old), his mum and 4 siblings, moved to Cardiff after his mum suffered domestic abuse. During the move, Liam’s beloved mountain bike and many other belongings were left behind. Since moving to Cardiff, Liam rarely goes out and has missed much of his education due to being a carer for his mum and siblings. His advocate suggested he applied to the Deloitte fund, to purchase a new bike so that he could start biking again and help with running errands and taking his younger siblings to school. “This is incredible, you have no idea how much this will change my life to be able to drop my siblings off to school and be able to get to my college course on time by myself, I am so very grateful to you all.” Liam

In 2023 – 2024 NYAS completed a substantial piece of work related to staff pay, reward and benefits. This led to a NYAS wide pay review and its recommendations being implemented. We believe this excellent and vital piece of work has brought NYAS in line with – or above – similar charities and we will continue in 2024 – 2025 to review additional benefits for staff as part of our staff ‘recruit, train and retain’ work.

The best thing about working for NYAS is that we really make a difference to the young people, families and

vulnerable adults we provide services to – NYAS employee

In 2024 – 2025 we will also be reviewing and improving our IT and performance monitoring systems with a view to strengthening our infrastructure and our service offer.

“I wanted to work in a role which both inspired me and utilised my years of experience. Working for NYAS has enabled me to do this” NYAS employee

The NYAS Learning and Development department developed new courses to meet demand in the sector. These courses included asylum seeking children’s rights, mental health first aider training, complaints processes for education, health and social care sectors and children’s rights training for IMHA’s (independent mental health advocates). During 2024-2025 the L&D team will respond to sector market demand with new courses and up to date course materials.

“All of the information was extremely valuable. The opportunity to work in groups and discuss and share ideas with other course members was so beneficial” – Self Employed Advocate

During this financial year NYAS secured a major contract from DfE to deliver a ‘safety net’ helpline service. This is additional and complimentary to our current helpline service, both of which are national. The safety net service will ensure that ‘no care experienced child is turned away’ when contacting NYAS for help, guidance, advocacy, or signposting.

“You literally helped me a lot compared to what I was getting before, the council didn't even reply to me until I contacted you guys. Things were really difficult for me until you guys helped" Safety Net Advocacy

2023 - 2024 saw NYAS’s ‘My things matter’ campaign grow to nearly 60 local authorities working with NYAS and MADLUG (Make a Difference Luggage) in pledging to respect the belongings of the young person who is being moved to a different placement. This campaign has been recognised nationally with two awards during this financial year.

Every 20 minutes a child in care moves home. Three in five young people said that at least one, but often more of their personal belongings had been lost or damaged when moving home while living in care.

Throughout 2023 – 2024 NYAS’ Communications and Policy team continued to lobby for legislation and policy changes, contributed to parliamentary enquires and calls for evidence, responded to consultations, chaired/cochaired panels, and debates. Working alongside the team is a young person led Campaigns and Advisory Group (CAG) who directly feed into the team. Our campaign and influencing work are a key part of NYAS and will continue to grow and strengthen in the next financial year. It is imperative that NYAS – representing the voice of the child and continues to invest in this area next year and beyond.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“Had I not joined the YPAG and met Sam A from NYAS, I perhaps would not have got my job with the Civil Service. It was because of Sam I was able to make an application, given she knew about it first and sent me the application through email” – Young person on NYAS Cymru YPAG

NYAS works with a YPAG (young people advisory group) who meet on a monthly basis with NYAS staff to voice their opinions on our work, offer ideas and comments on any new initiatives we are developing and share their life experiences with us in confidence. This enables NYAS to really understand the impact and importance of our work and we are forever grateful to the YPAG and the CAG.

“The YPAG has given me a great opportunity to create a youth manifesto for care leavers, highlighting priorities for care leavers and what they want to change in government policy.” - Young person on the NYAS Cymru YPAG

December 2024 will see the expiration of the current strategic plan and the start of a new process to produce a new five-year plan, setting out the vision for NYAS services for the coming five years, this has already begun. As well as putting the voice and influence of care-experienced children and young people at the center of all we do, the new plan will recognise the work NYAS is delivering for adults and families. It will allow for growth in these areas as well as the ever-increasing demands for mental health advocacy, peer and parent advocacy. By developing a new fiveyear strategic plan, it enables NYAS to plan for a longer-term investment strategy and resource growth. In preparation for the new plan, NYAS has submitted a change to its objectives with the charity commission to recognise the work with parents and adults. The new strategic plan will further enhance our current vision, purpose, and strategic aims.

Our Vision (current)

"A society where every child, young person and vulnerable adult's voice is heard and their rights are respected."

Objectives and Activities

In formulating the policies and objectives the Trustees have had due regard for the Charity Commission's revised public benefit guidance.

The main aim of NYAS is to ensure the delivery of high-quality rights-based socio-legal services. These are formulated around a framework of children and vulnerable adult’s rights and interests as set out in domestic law and international convention, in particular the provisions of the Children Act 1989, United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Our key strategic aims are:

WORK COLLABORATIVELY :

CHAMPION RIGHTS:

INFLUENCE CHANGE:

INSPIRE TRUST:

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Strategic report

The description under the headings "Key Achievements and performance" and "Financial review" meet the company law requirements for the trustees to present a strategic report.

Key Achievements and performance

2023 - 2024 has seen NYAS continue to support vulnerable children and young people to express their wishes and feelings at key points in their lives. They are children and young people who may be in care or leaving care, subject to child protection plans and they may have disabilities. NYAS has also delivered adult services including mental health advocacy, peer mentoring and parent advocacy.

“I have never been so proud of myself; with your help I was able to go on stage and speak in front of 200 people” – young person supported by NYAS Cymru

We have delivered this support through a range of services, which includes:-

“Thank you very much. What great progress the young person has made since she was first referred to your service, now feeling she no longer requires an advocate. Thank you for all your support with the young person and her siblings.” Social Worker

“I want to extend my deepest thanks to NYAS caseworker and the entire NYAS team for their unwavering support. The caseworkers exceptional work deserves recognition, and I am profoundly grateful for her contribution to our family’s journey” – Parent in a 16.4 case

“Use this service because it helps” – Young person

“Thank you so much I am glad that I fought all the way through now. I needed to get it all off my chest. I feel that I have climbed the mountain that was on top of me with your help.”

"Thank you so much, you are a lifesaver. Out of everyone, no one else has helped me as much as you, not even my social worker. No one had told me my rights before, but you've explained things in a way I can understand" – Safety Net Advocacy

“He is more open now and talks about his dad/family a lot and people in his life, things they used to do etc. Everything going well” – Independent Visitor about a young person they support

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

"We see massive changes in children thanks to the hard work of these extraordinary people" (IV service)

“Thank you so much, it was like the children were here, I was worried that their voices would not be captured but you have done it". Mum during Child Protection Conference.

In 2023-2024 NYAS: -

“I thought the caseworker reports were really excellent – very detailed, clear and well-reasoned. She seems to really have a grip on this complicated case, and I was very impressed. I would happily work with her anytime” – From Counsel instructed by NYAS.

“I commend the NYAS caseworker, for the valuable, important work he has done in such a short space of time. I also commend you for your equally valuable work” Judge to NYAS.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

“We are finally being listened to”

“We have been given a voice”

“At last, someone cares about our lives”

* Under the Children's Homes Regulations, children's homes are required to have in place a monthly visit by an independent person whose duties include talking to the children in private about their care in the home.

“I would like you to go to the meeting for me. It always helps when you are there. I understand what they are doing and I feel involved in decisions that are being made, when you are there”. Young person to their advocate

Key Achievements – Legal Services.

2023 - 2024 saw the NYAS legal team continue to expand in both the number of staff employed, the geographical location of those staff and the number of children represented. It has been an excellent year for legal as the new staff have settled in, more external networking is taking place and recognition of NYAS legal services and an audit has taken place by SQM, owned by the Legal Aid Agency, resulting in zero recommendation for improvements.

The number of legal cases continues to grow as demand for independent representation increases. In 2024 – 2025 and as part of our ongoing five-year plan, we will be looking at how NYAS legal can represent more children who need our services. NYAS will work in close collaboration with CAFCASS to agree the level of deliverable growth required.

“Hey , It's been a very long time, I'm sure you're very busy, I'm not after a reply at all but it's been playing on my mind recently, with the newfound light and happiness in my life it's dawned upon me that while I understand, it's your job, and also your obligation to hold my best interests above all else, human to human thank you” – Young person to a NYAS Caseworker.

2023 – 2024 saw 298 families being represented by NYAS. These are new cases in family proceedings where parents were in conflict about the arrangements for their children post separation and divorce.

“Without your help in that dark time heaven knows where I'd be now. Life for me has never been better, like an uncaged bird because of you unlocking the cage I've been set free” – Young person to a NYAS Caseworker.

The legal team continues its involvement with the Helpline, offering support to young people and care leavers on request. Their support can focus on a variety of issues, e.g., seeking contact with their siblings, care leavers transitioning to adult service, child protection advice, special guardianship, restriction of liberty and information regarding the discharging of care orders.

“Thank you for everything. My children have a life now BECAUSE OF YOU! Thank you for seeing the truth! Thank you for fighting for them! Guardians are amazing people, who do amazing jobs! You make such a difference I really hope you know what a difference you make! “– Father to a Guardian.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Financial review

Our principal funding sources continue to be dependent on contracts with local authorities, health trusts and independent providers for the provision of advocacy, independent visitor services and the Legal Aid Agency for the provision of separate representation and legal advice.

Other funding sources include grant making bodies, individual donors, and corporates as well as private sector clients for whom we are delivering mental health advocacy and Reg.44 visits. This year the percentage of public to private funding stands at 70% to 30% An increase in our fundraising activities enables unrestricted funds to be allocated to non-statutory charitable activities such as the ‘Knapman Fund’, given to care leavers to provide financial assistance to better their future prospects.

Fundraising activity undertaken by the charity involves individual giving, supporter-led fundraising from challenge events, and grants from trusts, foundations and government agencies. Where we make fundraising appeals direct to the public, we follow the Code of Fundraising Practice and always ensure our actions are compatible with the code values as well as NYAS values. NYAS is an organisation registered with the Fundraising Regulator. NYAS does not contract the services of professional fundraisers or commercial partners. In 2023-2024, we did not receive any complaints related to fundraising activities.

In accordance with best practice as regard to payments to suppliers, NYAS ensures that we always pay to terms.

Funders, stakeholders and sponsors

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to local authorities, government departments, charitable bodies, companies and individuals for their funding to help NYAS to ensure care-experienced children, young people and adults in vulnerable situations are heard, safe and involved in decisions made about their lives.

Investment policy and performance

In addition to the aim to retain a prudent amount of reserves each year, the charity's funds have generally been required to be spent in the short term. The investment policy therefore has been to balance liquidity and the availability of funds whilst ensuring an appropriate level of return on the investment. RBC Brewin Dolphin continue to act as the charity's independent investment provider, managing the performance of the charity's fixed assets investments.

The total return (income generated plus capital growth) of the invested assets over the year to 31st March 2024, net of all costs and charges, was 14.0%. The assets that outperformed the associated benchmark were, ARC Equity Risk ACI, which returned 10.3% over the same period. Falling inflation, the hope of interest rate cuts, resilient economic performance and excitement surrounding artificial intelligence have all contributed to the strong performance over the reporting year.

Reserves policy

The Charity’s reserves policy aims to hold a minimum of three months average expenses as free reserves. The level of free reserves is maintained in this range to protect the charity against any sudden reduction in income and ensures immediate commitments can be met. Expenses for the year ending March 2024 showed £10,567,856 and therefore three months expenses equate to £2,641,964 on average.

Total reserves as at March 2024 is £3,310,332, (March 2023, £2,893,642) of which all are unrestricted.

Trustees have designated funds of £379,000 to purchase property ensuring that the charity has suitable premises to operate and perform its charitable activities plus £100,000 to bring the property up to a suitable and required condition. Both funds are subject to due diligence, contract, satisfactory surveys and valuations.

The free reserves currently stand at £2,786,111 at March 2024 (£2,774,791 March 2023) above policy expectations. Free reserves are calculated as total unrestricted reserves, less designated funds and fixed assets but includes investment portfolio.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Risk Management

The Board of Trustees has examined the major strategic business and operational risks that NYAS faces and confirms that policies, procedures and systems have been established so that necessary steps can be taken to manage those risks and to enable regular reports to be provided.

The Audit, Risk and Reward committee reports on high level risks to the Board of Trustees. A quarterly updated Risk Register is prepared by the Group CEO for review by the A.R&R committee. An interdepartmental Safeguarding/ GDPR scrutiny committee chaired by the Group CEO feeds into the risk register.

The trustees continue to be aware of the uncertainty caused by cuts in public spending and the challenges arising from changes to legal aid funding. We are responding by managing contracts robustly, introducing efficiency savings and growing alternative sources of funding through the introduction of a dedicated Income Generation and Fundraising team. With a new government now elected and uncertainty in public sector funding, NYAS will be investing in its fundraising and bid writing team, particularly looking to increase legacy donations, individual and corporate giving.

The charity remains firmly committed to the mission of ensuring that children, young people and vulnerable adults are able to understand and influence decisions made about their lives by supporting them to have their wishes and feelings heard.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is registered as a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered charity number 1012485 and is constituted under its memorandum and articles.

Governance, pay and remuneration is overseen by the Audit, Risk and Reward committee reporting into the Board of Trustees, working closely with the Chief Executive and operating within the terms of our Memorandum and Articles of Association. The setting of pay and remuneration for the charity’s key management personnel is based on a job evaluation methodology that encompasses the requirements, demands and content of each role across ten factors. The scores are then benchmarked against both market rates and similar scoring internal jobs to determine the salary range.

The Board of Trustees follows a routine of closely monitoring and reviewing its effectiveness at its quarterly meetings and through careful application of any advice contained within the management letter provided as part of the annual audit.

NYAS seeks to ensure the Board of Trustees continually comprises of individuals who contribute a range of skills and expertise relevant to the monitoring, guidance and development of the charity. NYAS is particularly fortunate to have trustees who bring financial, commercial, legal and social work together with extensive academic knowledge and experience.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

Sir M Hedley (Chair) Mr M Best Mr K R Cormack Ms M Cover Mr N Galloway Mr R Jones MBE Mrs J Timms OBE Mr R A Wright

(Appointed 28th February 2024)

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

Appointment of trustees follows a skills audit which is conducted periodically to address any gaps in the Board of Trustees' expertise. The appointment process is initiated through an established network of business, legal, voluntary and academic sector contacts and a formal recruitment process.

Potential trustees with the appropriate expertise and experience are given the opportunity to meet the Chair, the Group Chief Executive, other Board of Trustee members and to visit the Charity Headquarters or services which may be local to them. Appointment is made after attendance at a full meeting of the Board. None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company.

All of the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of it winding up.

Induction and training of trustees

New trustees are provided with an induction pack containing background information about the work of the Charity and a copy of the NCVO's 'Good Trustee Guide'. An induction programme is matched to their individual needs and includes copies of the most recent annual report and accounts, current financial records and accounting systems, organisational structure charts, young people's feedback reports and operating practices.

Induction and on-going trustee training is provided via internal/external training courses, webinars and opportunities to interact directly with NYAS exec team and associated staff including the training team. All trustees receive training in safeguarding, GDPR and equality, diversity and inclusion. 2023- 2024 saw the introduction of a new trustee onto the trustee board. 2024 – 2025 will see NYAS establish Patrons for NYAS with an aim to welcome young care leavers, patrons with lived experience along with non-care experienced patrons. All patrons will be asked to become NYAS ambassadors and to publicly support the work of the charity.

Organisational structure and decision-making

The Group Chief Executive and Finance Director report regularly to the Board of Trustees. The Group Chief Executive has delegated authority to make strategic decisions on behalf of the board and NYAS. With the support of her Executive management team, they will make operational management decisions.

The Board of Trustees make staff appointments and salary decisions at Group CEO level. Strategic policy decisions are referred to them for information/approval.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the preparation of financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the balance sheet date and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure for the year ended. The Board of Trustees is responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud or other irregularities.

Senior Management

Rita Waters, Company Secretary and Group Chief Executive.

Auditor

In accordance with the charitable company's articles, a resolution proposing that Mitchell Charlesworth (Audit) Limited be reappointed as auditor of the charitable company was agreed during the 2023 – 2024 AGM.

Disclosure of information to auditor

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT AND STRATEGIC REPORT)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The trustees' report, including the strategic report, was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Mr R A Wright Trustee/Treasurer Dated: 4 September 2024

Ms R Waters Secretary Dated: 4 September 2024

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

The trustees, who are also the directors of The National Youth Advocacy Service for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company Law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of The National Youth Advocacy Service (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion, the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Other information

The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit:

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report or the directors' report included within the trustees' report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees, who are also the directors of the charity for the purpose of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE

The extent to which the audit was considered capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:

We assessed the susceptibility of the company’s financial statements to material misstatement, including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:

To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:

In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not limited to:

There are inherent limitations in our audit procedures described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it is that we would become aware of non-compliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to identify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence, if any.

Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion.

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, in accordance with section 391 of the Companies Act 2014. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company and the company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Louise Casey ACA (Senior Statutory Auditor) for and on behalf of Mitchell Charlesworth (Audit) Limited

20 September 2024

Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor

Suite 5.1 Tempest 12 Tithebarn Street Liverpool L2 2DT

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Current financial year
Unrestricted
funds
2024
Notes
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
20,523
Charitable activities
4
9,787,387
Investments
5
36,017
Total income
9,843,927
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
129,432
Charitable activities
7
9,507,956
Total expenditure
9,637,388
Net operating surplus/(loss)
206,539
Net gains/(losses) on investments
12
210,151
Net movement in funds
416,690
Reconciliation of funds
Fund balances at 1 April 2023
2,893,642
Fund balances at 31 March 2024
3,310,332		 Restricted
funds
2024
£
12,533
917,935
-
930,468
-
930,468
930,468
-
-
-
-
-		 Total
2024
£
33,056
10,705,322
36,017
10,774,395
129,432
10,438,424
10,567,856
206,539
210,151
416,690
2,893,642
3,310,332		 Total
2023
£
80,679
10,125,398
22,773
10,228,850
128,103
10,163,465
10,291,568
(62,718)
(81,543)
(144,261)
3,037,903
2,893,642

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.

The movement in funds detailed above complies with the requirements for a statement of changes in equity under FRS102.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Prior financial year - 2023

Unrestricted
funds
2023
Notes
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
3
21,192
Charitable activities
4
9,145,125
Investments
5
22,773
Total income
9,189,090
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
6
128,103
Charitable activities
7
9,123,705
Total expenditure
9,251,808
Net operating loss
(62,718)
Net gains/(losses) on investments
12
(81,543)
Net income for the year/net movement in funds
(144,261)
Reconciliation of funds
Fund balances at 1 April 2022
3,037,903
Fund balances at 31 March 2023
2,893,642		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
59,487
980,273
-
1,039,760
-
1,039,760
1,039,760
-
-
-
-
-		 Total
2023
£
80,679
10,125,398
22,773
10,228,850
128,103
10,163,465
10,291,568
(62,718)
(81,543)
(144,261)
3,037,903
2,893,642

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.

The movement in funds detailed above complies with the requirements for a statement of changes in equity under FRS102.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Intangible assets 13 32,766 99,238
Tangible assets 14 12,455 19,613
Investments 15 1,886,464 1,687,708
1,931,685 1,806,559
Current assets
Accrued income - Legal 533,306 470,618
Debtors 17 1,665,963 1,313,575
Cash at bank and in hand 941,470 797,564
3,140,739 2,581,757
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year 18 (1,708,325) (1,449,674)
Net current assets 1,432,414 1,132,083
Total assets less current liabilities 3,364,099 2,938,642
Provisions for liabilities 20 (53,767) (45,000)
Net assets 3,310,332 2,893,642
Income funds
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds 22 479,000 -
General unrestricted funds 2,831,332 2,893,642
Total unrestricted funds 3,310,332 2,893,642
Total charity funds 3,310,332 2,893,642

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 4 September 2024

Mr R A Wright Trustee/Treasurer

Company registration number 2722134

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from/(absorbed by)
operations
27
Investing activities
Purchase of intangible assets
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Purchase of investments
Proceeds from disposal of investments
Movement in investment cash held
Investment income received
Net cash generated from/(used in)
investing activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash
equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2024
2023
£
£
£
£
100,136
(19,820)
-
(31,010)
(3,642)
(8,055)
(769,478)
(1,028,633)
730,229
1,055,980
50,644
(16,048)
36,017
22,773
43,770
(4,993)
-
-
143,906
(24,813)
797,564
822,377
941,470
797,564

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

The National Youth Advocacy Service is a registered charity and a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is Tower House, 1 Tower Road, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 1FF.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act 2006, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention modified to include certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the accounts, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the accounts.

1.3 Charitable funds

Funds held by the charity are:

Unrestricted funds - these are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees.

Designated funds - these funds are set aside by the trustees out of unrestricted general funds for specific future purposes or projects.

Restricted funds - these are funds that can be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.4 Income

All income is included in the statement of financial activities when the charity has entitlement to the funds, certainty of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Income from donations and grants, including capital grants, and contract income is included in income when these are receivable, except as follows:

Voluntary income includes discretionary grants for projects, goods and services where no service agreement or contract exists.

Other grants, which have particular service requirements and which are provided in accordance with a contract or service level agreement are included in the statement of financial activities under the heading charitable activities.

For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the date on which either the charity is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and notification made by the executors to the charity that a distribution will be paid or when a distribution is received from the estate. Interest is included when receivable by the charity.

Gifts in kind donated for distribution are included at valuation and recognised as income when they are distributed to the projects. Gifts donated for resale are included as income when they are sold. Donated facilities are included at the value to the charity where this can be quantified and a third party is bearing the cost. No amounts are included in the financial statements for services donated by volunteers.

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure reflects all amounts paid and accrued during the year. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates. All costs are allocated between the expenditure categories of the statement of financial activities (SOFA) on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resource.

Raising funds

These represent costs incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating information in support of the charitable activities.

Charitable expenditure

Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. Governance costs and support costs are allocated to charitable activities in the SOFA based on staff numbers (see note 8).

Other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related to raising funds for the charity nor part of its expenditure on charitable activities.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Software

33% pa on a straight line basis

1.7 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

All assets costing more than £1,000 are capitalised at cost.

Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows:

Computer equipment 33% p.a. on a straight line basis Fixtures, fittings & equipment 20% p.a. on a straight line basis

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.8 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at transaction price excluding transaction costs, and are subsequently measured at fair value at each reporting date. Changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

1.9 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.10 Accrued income

Legal cases in progress or completed but unsettled are valued at the amount of anticipated receipt from the Legal Aid Agency or opponent, net of any payments on account, and are shown as accrued income.

1.11 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.12 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Other financial assets

Other financial assets, including investments in equity instruments which are not subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the transaction price. Such assets are subsequently carried at fair value and the changes in fair value are recognised in net income/(expenditure), except that investments in equity instruments that are not publicly traded and whose fair values cannot be measured reliably are measured at cost less impairment.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.13 Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the charity has a legal or constructive present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the charity will be required to settle that obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting end date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation.

Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the amount expected to be required to settle the obligation is recognised at present value. When a provision is measured at present value the unwinding of the discount is recognised as a finance cost in net income/(expenditure) in the period it arises.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.14 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.15 Retirement benefits

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the charity to the fund in the year.

1.16 Leases

Rentals payable under operating leases, including any lease incentives received, are charged as an expense on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

1.17 Taxation

The charity benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by tax legislation and is not liable to corporation tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. Recovery is made of tax deducted from qualifying income and from receipts under Gift Aid.

The charity is also able to partially recover Value Added Tax. Expenditure that is not recoverable by the charity is recorded in the accounts inclusive of VAT.

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

The provision for property dilapidations relating to the charity premises remains outstanding and has been increased to £53,767 (2023: £45,000).

Based on previous claims experience, a provision is held against the value of legal cases in progress to reflect the uncertainty of fully recovering the accrued value of older matters. The amount required now, however, is relatively small as this is a legacy issue which is largely discharged.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

3 Donations and legacies

Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £
Donations and gifts 20,523 12,533 33,056 21,192 59,487 80,679

Performance related grants are disclosed in note 4.

4 Charitable activities

Income from charitable activities
Performance related grants
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 Children's
Services
£
8,951,783
828,130
9,779,913
8,861,978
917,935
9,779,913		 Legal
Services
£
925,409
-
925,409
925,409
-
925,409		 Total
2024
£
9,877,192
828,130
10,705,322
9,787,387
917,935
10,705,322		 Total
2023
£
9,267,679
857,719
10,125,398

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

4
Charitable activities
For the year ended 31 March 2023
Income from charitable activities
Performance related grants
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
5
Investments		 Children's
Services
£
8,423,406
857,719
9,281,125
8,300,852
980,273
9,281,125		 (Continued)
Legal
Services
Total
2023
£
£
844,273
9,267,679
-
857,719
844,273
10,125,398
844,273
9,145,125
-
980,273
844,273
10,125,398		 (Continued)
Legal
Services
Total
2023
£
£
844,273
9,267,679
-
857,719
844,273
10,125,398
844,273
9,145,125
-
980,273
844,273
10,125,398
10,125,398
9,145,125
980,273
10,125,398
**Unrestricted ** Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Income from listed investments 20,172 20,372
Interest receivable 15,845 2,401
36,017 22,773

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

6 Raising funds

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Fundraising and publicity
Seeking donations, and grants 11,439 37,736
Staff costs 108,543 79,069
Fundraising and publicity 119,982 116,805
Investment management - Brewin Dolphin 9,450 11,298
129,432 128,103

The cost of seeking donations and grants, including related staff costs, shown above incorporates obtaining performance related grants disclosed in note 4.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

7 Charitable activities

Staff costs
Direct charitable expenditure
Share of support costs (see note 8)
Share of governance costs (see note
8)
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 Children's
services
£
4,886,720
3,096,869
7,983,589
1,314,849
19,100
9,317,538
8,387,070
930,468
9,317,538		 Legal
services
£
707,810
83,055
790,865
156,885
-
947,750
947,750
-
947,750		 NYAS
helpline
£
115,970
12,342
128,312
44,824
-
173,136
173,136
-
173,136		 Total
2024
£
5,710,500
3,192,266
8,902,766
1,516,558
19,100
10,438,424
9,507,956
930,468
10,438,424		 Total
2023
£
5,584,859
3,199,254
8,784,113
1,362,742
16,610
10,163,465

Included in Direct Charitable Expenditure are payments to partners of £468,144 (2023: £519,991) in respect of the Priory contract. Also included are payments to self employed workers of £1,981,748 (2023: £1,870,007).

For the year ended 31 March 2023

For the year ended 31 March 2023
Staff costs
Direct charitable expenditure
Share of support costs (see note 8)
Share of governance costs (see note 8)
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds		 Children's
services
£
4,786,570
3,030,722
7,817,292
1,163,584
16,610
8,997,486
7,957,726
1,039,760
8,997,486		 Legal
services
£
696,854
137,950
834,804
154,899
-
989,703
989,703
-
989,703		 NYAS
helpline
£
101,435
30,582
132,017
44,259
-
176,276
176,276
-
176,276		 Total
2023
£
5,584,859
3,199,254
8,784,113
1,362,742
16,610
10,163,465
9,123,705
1,039,760
10,163,465

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

8 Support costs

Staff costs
Depreciation and
amortisation
Premises and office
costs
Other costs
Audit fees
Accountancy
Analysed between
Charitable activities		 Support
costs
Governance
costs
£
£
922,232
-
77,272
-
341,363
-
175,691
-
-
8,712
-
10,388
1,516,558
19,100
1,516,558
19,100		 2024Support costs Governance
costs
£
£
£
922,232
918,664
-
77,272
86,962
-
341,363
204,849
-
175,691
152,267
-
8,712
-
7,920
10,388
-
8,690
1,535,658
1,362,742
16,610
1,535,658
1,362,742
16,610		 2023
£
918,664
86,962
204,849
152,267
7,920
8,690
1,379,352
1,379,352

The above costs are the central head office overheads of the charity which do not reflect or include costs attributable to the delivery of specific services of the charity. These have been allocated to charitable activities (in note 7) on the basis of direct staff numbers. Governance costs are allocated to children's services.

9 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration during the year, and trustees were reimbursed expenses totalling £398 during the year (2023: No trustees were reimbursed).

10 Auditors' remuneration

The analysis of auditor's remuneration is as follows:

The analysis of auditor's remuneration is as follows:
Fees payable to the charity's auditor for the audit of the charity's annual
accounts
All other non-audit services		 2024
£
8,712
10,388		 2023
£
7,920
8,690

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

11 Employees

Number of employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Children's Services
Legal Services
NYAS Helpline
Operational
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2024
Number
175
21
6
42
244
2024
£
5,922,071
496,761
322,443
6,741,275		 2023
Number
168
20
6
45
239
2023
£
5,831,045
523,156
228,391
6,582,592

The number of employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more were:

2024 2023
Number Number
In the band £60,001 - £70,000 1 3
In the band £70,001 - £80,000 3 -
In the band £80,001 - £90,000 - -
In the band £90,001 - £100,000 1 1

12 Net gains/(losses) on investments

**Unrestricted ** Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Revaluation of investments 191,325 7,443
Gain/(loss) on sale of investments 18,826 (88,986)
210,151 (81,543)

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

13 Intangible fixed assets

Cost
At 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024
Amortisation
At 1 April 2023
Amortisation charged for the year
At 31 March 2024
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
At 31 March 2023
Tangible fixed assets
Computer
equipment
Fixtures,
fittings &
equipment
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2023
108,295
7,282
Additions
3,642
-
Disposals
(24,219)
-
At 31 March 2024
87,718
7,282
Depreciation
At 1 April 2023
93,793
2,171
Depreciation charged in the year
9,437
1,363
Eliminated in respect of disposals
(24,219)
-
At 31 March 2024
79,011
3,534
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
8,707
3,748
At 31 March 2023
14,502
5,111		 Software
£
302,223
202,985
66,472
269,457
32,766
99,238
Total
£
115,577
3,642
(24,219)
95,000
95,964
10,800
(24,219)
82,545
12,455
19,613

14 Tangible fixed assets

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

15 Fixed asset investments

Listed
investments
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2023
1,615,862
Additions
769,478
Valuation changes
191,325
Movement in cash
-
Disposals
(711,403)
At 31 March 2024
1,865,262
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2024
1,865,262
At 31 March 2023
1,615,862		 Cash in
portfolio
£
71,846
-
-
(50,644)
-
21,202
21,202
71,846		 Total
£
1,687,708
769,478
191,325
(50,644)
(711,403)
1,886,464
1,886,464
1,687,708

The total return (income generated plus capital growth) of the invested assets over the year to 31 March 2024, net of all costs and charges, was 14.0%. The assets outperformed the associated benchmark, ARC Equity Risk ACI, which returned 10.3% over the same period.

Falling inflation, the hope of interest rate cuts, resilient economic performance and excitement surround artificial intelligence have all contributed to the strong performance over the reporting year.

16 Financial instruments

Carrying amount of financial assets
Debt instruments measured at amortised cost
Equity instruments measured at fair value through the SOFA
Carrying amount of financial liabilities
Measured at amortised cost		 2024
£
1,965,887
1,865,262
689,466		 2023
£
1,666,178
1,615,862
591,788

Debt instruments includes bank and cash (including any cash held in investment portfolios), trade debtors and other debtors.

Equity instruments includes the market value of investments at the year end, see note 15.

Financial liabilities includes trade creditors, accruals and other creditors (excluding any amounts due to HMRC).

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

17
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and other accrued income
18
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Notes
Other taxation and social security
Deferred income
19
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals
All Trade Creditors are settled within a maximum of 30 days from invoice date.
19
Deferred income
Other deferred income
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
Total deferred income at 1 April 2023
Amounts received in year
Amounts credited to statement of financial activities		 2024
£
801,672
201,543
662,748
1,665,963
2024
£
158,145
860,714
458,950
67,372
163,144
1,708,325
2024
£
860,714
2024
£
666,410
860,714
(666,410)
860,714		 2023
£
562,028
234,740
516,807
1,313,575
2023
£
191,476
666,410
442,800
62,379
86,609
1,449,674
2023
£
666,410
2023
£
803,919
(666,410)
(803,919)
666,410

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

20
Provisions for liabilities
Dilapidations
Movements on provisions:
At 1 April 2023
Additional provisions in the year
At 31 March 2024		 2024
2023
£
£
53,767
45,000
Dilapidations
£
45,000
8,767
53,767		 2023
£
45,000
53,767

The provision for property dilapidations relating to one of the charity premises remains outstanding and increased from £45,000 the prior year to £48,700, dilapidations on another premises amount to £5,067.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

21 Restricted funds

The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:

Balance at
1 April 2022
£
Section 64 Welsh Grant
-
Mental Health Recovery Fund
-
SSG Parent Advocacy
-
SSG Project Unity
-
SidebySide
-
IST Support Worker
-
Cardiff and Vale Parents Advocacy
-
SVYWO
-
Other restricted funds
-
-		 Movement in funds
Income
Expenditure
Balance at
1 April 2023
£
£
£
36,310
(36,310)
-
18,843
(18,843)
-
307,027
(307,027)
-
392,329
(392,329)
-
59,487
(59,487)
-
63,720
(63,720)
-
40,000
(40,000)
-
63,212
(63,212)
-
58,832
(58,832)
-
1,039,760
(1,039,760)
-		 Movement in funds
Income
Expenditure
31
£
£
-
-
-
-
281,739
(281,739)
339,116
(339,116)
71,239
(71,239)
8,180
(8,180)
103,221
(103,221)
74,054
(74,054)
52,919
(52,919)
930,468
(930,468)		 Balance at
March 2024
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

21 Restricted funds

(Continued)

Section 64 grant finances a one to one holistic support service for care experienced young people who are transitioning from CAMHS to adult mental health service or for those who are accessing or unable to access primary mental health services. It provide health and well-being support to individual’s. The second element of the service is creating an online platform to support foster carers with tools and resources to equip them with information and knowledge on how to deal with and support the mental health of the young people they may be fostering.

Mental Health Recovery fund – this additional money from Caerphilly Local Authority will ensure that parents whose children are at risk of child protection procedures are supported through the process. We will provide advocacy representation within family group conferences and ensure the parents are at the heart of plans in place to safeguard and protect their children.

SSG Parent Advocacy - to support Welsh Government’s plans of reducing numbers of children entering the care system in Wales. The Parent Advocacy programme will also support parents to engage with social services through the provision of independent professional advocacy.

SSG Project Unity - to help break the cycle of children being born to care-experienced young mothers entering the care system in Wales This is achieved by helping them engage with services, access practical and emotional support and learn new life skills with the aim of keeping families together.

NVYO Grant - our Welsh Government NVYO funded project provides an opportunity for all young people throughout Wales to undertake accredited training in Peer Mentoring, Peer Advocacy and support to apply for and gain Youth Work qualifications. The grant has also enabled us to recruit an expert care experienced young person to work with the YPAG to explore using Digital Platforms to meet the project aims.

Welsh Emergency Digital Equipment - we were fortunate to have received this grant for care leavers who are without access to digital equipment. This has been a much-needed resource for young people, affording them the opportunity to expand their skills in this new virtual world we find ourselves in.

Side By Side is a project with volunteers, as mentors, to support care leavers through a programme which will help young people to bridge the gap between leaving care and finding their own way in the world, providing a broad range of support and mentoring. A grant was gratefully received in 2023/24 and fully spent during the year.

Funds have been used for the bursary for each of these care leavers. Bursaries have provided such items as computers and internet access to aid them with College work and equipment to enable them to cook their own meals.

IST support worker - NYAS Cymru were funded to support Caerphilly Children’s Services with the delivery of Family Meetings in the Intensive Support Team. The aim is to reduce the number of children who become looked after. The project looks to deliver an impartial and independent advocacy service to parents and legal guardians of children/young people under the age of 18, living within the Caerphilly County Borough Council area.

The service is bespoke and dependent on the needs of the individual. Each intervention will involve working with a single individual, addressing any advocacy issues and attempting to bring them to a resolution.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

22 Designated funds

The income funds of the charity include the following designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes:

Balance at
1 April 2022
Transfers
Balance at
1 April 2023

£
£
£
Discretionary charitable expenditure
417,000
(417,000)
-
Property purchase
-
-
-
Property improvements
-
-
-
417,000
(417,000)
-		 Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
-
-
379,000
379,000
100,000
100,000
479,000
479,000		 Transfers
Balance at
31 March 2024
£
£
-
-
379,000
379,000
100,000
100,000
479,000
479,000
479,000

Trustees have designated funds of £379,000 to purchase property ensuring that the charity has suitable premises to operate and perform its charitable activities plus £100,000 to bring the property up to a suitable and required condition. Both funds are subject to due diligence, contract, satisfactory surveys and valuations.

The previously recorded designated funds subtotal of £417,000 for discretionary charitable expenditure has been released back to general unrestricted funds in the previous year. This discretionary charitable expenditure is now recognised as an established charitable cause as part of our core activities and is now covered within the accounts.

23 Retirement benefit schemes

Defined contribution schemes

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £322,443 (2023: £228,391). Total employee and employer contributions totalling £38,192 (2023: £37,698) were payable to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included within creditors.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

24 Operating lease commitments

At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

Within one year
Between two and five years		 2024
£
33,577
65,216
98,793		 2023
£
38,119
42,162
80,281

25 Related party transactions

Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of key management personnel is as follows.

Key management personnel
Aggregate remuneration		 2024
Number
6
2024
£
535,819		 2023
Number
6
2023
£
500,158

There were no other related party transactions in the year.

26 Company limited by guarantee

The National Youth Advocacy Service is incorporated under the Companies Act as a company limited by guarantee. The liability of the members is limited to £1.

THE NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCACY SERVICE COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

27 Cash generated from operations 2024 2023
£ £
Surplus/(deficit) for the year 416,690 (144,261)
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities (36,017) (22,773)
(Gain)/loss on disposal of investments (18,826) 88,986
Fair value gains and losses on investments (191,325) (7,442)
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 77,272 86,962
Movements in working capital:
(Increase)/decrease in accrued income (62,688) 40,811
(Increase)/decrease in debtors (352,388) 23,240
Increase in creditors 64,347 241,620
(Decrease)/increase in provisions 8,767 (189,454)
Increase/(decrease) in deferred income 194,304 (137,509)
Cash generated from/(absorbed by) operations 100,136 (19,820)

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