REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02752450 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1014852
Strategic Report, Report of the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
for
Lewisham Irish Community Centre (A Company Limited by Guarantee)
A Star Accountancy Limited 19 Beech Avenue Sidcup Kent DA15 8NH
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
| Page | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 | ||
| Strategic Report | 2 | ||
| Report of the Trustees | 3 | to | 8 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 9 | ||
| Statement of Financial Activities | 10 | ||
| Balance Sheet | 11 | to | 12 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 13 | to | 23 |
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Reference and Administrative Details
for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
TRUSTEES
Colum Mackey Chair James Farrell Vice Chair (resigned 26.4.24) Mrs Anne Mary O'Rorke Trustee Ms Karen Duggan Trustee Mrs Pauline Maton Trustee Michael Mc Donnell Treasurer Ms Martina O'Sullivan Trustee Dominic Nicholas Fox Trustee (resigned 26.4.24) Ruairi Cullen Trustee Ms Dervla O'Shea Trustee (resigned 26.4.24) David John Thomas Wilson (appointed 11.4.25) Dr Thomas Michael Murphy (appointed 6.11.25) Ross Matthew O'Neill (appointed 6.11.25)
REGISTERED OFFICE
2a Davenport Road Lewisham London SE6 2AZ
REGISTERED COMPANY 02752450 (England and Wales) NUMBER
REGISTERED CHARITY 1014852 NUMBER
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER Kuldeep Sulh FCCA CKR Chartered Certified Accountants CKR House 70 East Hill Dartford, Kent DA1 1RZ BANKERS Co-operative Bank 151 Lewisham High Street Lewisham London SE13 6AA
ACCOUNTANTS A Star Accountancy Ltd 19 Beech Avenue Sidcup Kent DA15 8NH
Page 1
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Strategic Report for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
The trustees present their strategic report for the year ended 31 March 2025.
SECTION 172(1) STATEMENT
Governance
Lewisham Irish Community Centre is governed by a board of trustees. We focus on the principles of good governance and work hard to regularly review and develop strategies for working effectively as a management committee.
Each new Trustee is offered an induction programme that emphasizes their personal and collective responsibility to the mission and objectives of the charity. Ever mindful that Trustees with appropriate business skills and knowledge of the voluntary sector are scarce, we continue to identify gaps in skills and competencies reviewing board training and recruiting new members.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 31 January 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
Michael Mc Donnell - Trustee
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
INTRODUCTION
Lewisham Irish Community Centre (LICC) is a dynamic, outward looking organisation based in the London Borough of Lewisham in South London. We are a registered charity established in 1992.
Our base in Rushey Green is a vibrant hub for the local community and the Irish community in Lewisham, providing advice, support and advocacy for the Irish community and specialist advice and support for Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) communities. The centre provides weekly clubs and classes for children and families, young people and the older community.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and activities
The principal objective of the charity is to promote the benefit of the community, particularly but not exclusively to persons of Irish descent within the London Borough of Lewisham. This objective is achieved through association with local authorities, voluntary organisations and local population to:
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Advance education in Irish culture & heritage.
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To relieve sickness & deprivation.
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Provision of social and recreational activities for the wellbeing of the community.
Main Summary
The Trustees are pleased to report that Lewisham Irish Community Centre (LICC) has experienced a highly successful year. Over the past two years, the organisation has achieved significant financial growth, with turnover now exceeding £300,000. This strengthened financial position has enabled LICC to expand its capacity and deliver advice and support services to more than 400 individuals-representing an increase of almost 100% compared to the previous year.
On average, approximately 700 individuals access the Centre each week. Of these, around 400 participate in our structured programme of activities, which includes a playgroup, youth club, Pilates and Zumba classes for older persons, a men's group, Irish language classes, a digital hub, weekly lunches, a community café, and the Irish Elders Project.
Partnership working remains a cornerstone of our approach. During the year, LICC collaborated with a wide range of organisations, including Holbeach Primary School, St Christopher's Hospice, Lewisham Council, Lewisham Local, Community Connections, Lewisham Wellbeing Hub, the Irish Embassy, Irish in Britain, Southwark Irish Pensioners Group, Coláiste Na nGael, London Gypsies and Travellers, the Department of Work and Pensions, KWD Solicitors, and Change, Grow, Live (CGL). Looking ahead, and supported by NCIL funding for 2025-2027, LICC will work in partnership with Lewisham Local to deliver a joint initiative providing a dedicated adviser and wellbeing officer for individuals accessing the Food Hub and Community Connections drop-in service.
The Trustees wish to acknowledge that these achievements would not have been possible without the continued support of our funders and the commitment of our staff, volunteers, and fellow Trustees. Particular thanks are extended to our staff team Kathleen Sheridan, Francesca Cook, Frances McAuley, Doreen Loughney, Annette Galloway, Fiona Chambers, Tommy Lewellyn, and Vincenza Della Camera-and to our Board of Trustees for their guidance and oversight: Colum Mackey, Ruairi Cullen, Michael Mc Donnell, Martina O'Sullivan, Anne O'Rorke, Pauline Maton, and Karen Duggan. Finally, the Trustees express their sincere gratitude to the wider community for its ongoing engagement and support throughout the year.
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Advice & Support Services
The advice and support service provides comprehensive information, guidance, and advocacy on welfare benefits, housing, and disability issues to members of the Irish community and the Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) communities.
During the reporting period, 401 individuals accessed the service, of whom 264 were residents of Lewisham. Approximately 70% of all clients were of Irish descent, and 75% were aged 55 or over.
The team delivered 1,381 advice sessions over the twelve-month period, comprising 108 home visits and 1,273 office-based appointments. Of these, 143 individuals required assistance with disability and age-related welfare matters, including applications, reviews, and appeals for Personal Independence Payment, migration to Universal Credit, and Attendance Allowance. A further 117 individuals sought support with housing issues, such as rent arrears, debt management, rehousing, tenancy disputes, and access to sheltered accommodation.
Additional areas of support included utility debt resolution, grants for essential household items, first-time means-tested benefit applications (including Pension Credit), transport schemes, safeguarding concerns, addiction and recovery support, and referrals to mental health services, counselling, and specialist legal advice. Positive outcomes achieved through the service included income maximisation via successful benefit claims, improved housing security, and enhanced financial stability through payment plans and debt management.
The service also provided vital emotional and practical support to clients experiencing mental health challenges, long-term health conditions, bereavement, and social isolation, ensuring a client-centred approach throughout. Furthermore, demand for assistance with Irish passport applications-particularly first-time applications-remained high, reflecting the increasing difficulty individuals face in accessing approved services.
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES SOCIAL INVESTMENTS
Irish Elders Project
The Irish Elders Project continues to provide a vital social and cultural space for older members of the Irish community. Sessions are held twice weekly, with Wednesdays dedicated to a card school for older Irish men and Fridays featuring music, dance, singing, and gentle exercise. Attendance averages 51 participants per week, rising to approximately 90 for special occasions such as Christmas and St Patrick's Day. Notable highlights during the year included a day trip to Brighton, a festive Christmas lunch, and celebrations for St Brigid's Day and St Patrick's Day.
In addition to the Irish Elders Project, LICC offers an expanding programme of activities for older people throughout the week. These include the Monday Warm Welcome community café, chair-based Pilates, chair-based Zumba, and Zumba Gold classes. These sessions remain highly popular, attracting an average of 105 participants weekly.
Playgroup
Our playgroup provides informal "stay and play" sessions for families with toddlers, fostering early development and social interaction. Coordinated by Karen Duggan, the group runs every Friday morning and remains a valued resource for local families. During the reporting period, more than 33 families accessed the service. With support from Merchant Taylor funding, recruitment is underway for a dedicated playgroup coordinator to enhance delivery and strengthen volunteer engagement.
Youth Club
The youth club operates on Wednesday evenings during term time for children aged 8-16 years. Over the year, 31 sessions were delivered, with attendance ranging from 16 to 26 young people. Activities include arts and crafts, quizzes, reading, and a variety of sports such as five-a-side football, air hockey, table tennis, pool, box hockey, and badminton. Members also enjoy access to gaming consoles and opportunities to explore music through dance, singing, and piano. These activities promote confidence, social skills, IT proficiency, and life skills, while encouraging interaction in a multicultural environment. The project continues to benefit from support by the Jack Petchey Foundation, which recognises and rewards young people for their achievements and contributions.
Digital Access Hub
LICC delivered weekly digital skills classes and drop-in support sessions to help individuals build confidence in using technology. Attendance ranged from 8 to 12 participants per session. Classes were tailored to individual needs and led by an experienced tutor.
Bia Food Delivery Project
Originally established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bia Project has now operated for 218 consecutive weeks. In the past year, 677 meals were delivered to 17 individuals, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. Plans for 2025/26 include expanding the project to incorporate home visits for those who are isolated or housebound, with volunteers matched to service users following a detailed assessment.
Partnerships
LICC continues to strengthen collaborative working. We support FoodCycle in providing weekly community meals, which attract a diverse range of attendees, including Irish Elders and local residents. Joint events for Christmas and St Patrick's Day were well attended, with over 60 participants. Following a successful application by Lewisham Local, LICC will provide an Adviser/Wellbeing Officer to assist guests with long-term support needs. Additionally, every Thursday, the Centre hosts Lewisham Community Connections and other local organisations to deliver walk-in advice and support services, which remain consistently well attended.
Social and Cultural Events
During the year, LICC delivered ten major events, including cultural workshops, volunteer recognition ceremonies, health and wellbeing initiatives, and seasonal celebrations. Highlights included:
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A cultural workshop for Holbeach Primary School, attended by 77 pupils and teachers.
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Our Volunteer Awards celebration, attended by 70 community members.
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A health and wellbeing event offering blood pressure checks, vaccinations, and health advice, supported by Eltham Pharmacy.
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A series of festive events, including a Family Christmas Party and an Irish Elders and Friends Christmas lunch, which welcomed 102 guests-the highest attendance since pre-COVID.
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St Brigid's Day celebrations featuring a weaving workshop and live music.
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A successful comedy night fundraiser in February, with proceeds supporting LICC programmes.
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
- St Patrick's Festival events throughout March, culminating in participation in the London Parade and welcoming 281 guests .
Volunteers
We acknowledge the contributions of volunteers supporting the playgroup, Irish Elders activities, the community café, reception, and the Bia Project. Special thanks are given to Brian Hughes and Colin Duggan, who retired during the year, and to Shanique Thompson, who stepped down as Youth Coordinator but continues to contribute as a tutor.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Principal funding sources
Lewisham Irish Community Centre (LICC) receives funding from four principal sources:The National Lottery, City Bridge Trust, Lewisham Council, and the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs.
Each of these funders supports our welfare and advice services. The National Lottery's Reaching Communities programme funds our welfare projects and full weekly programme of activities. Both City Bridge Trust and Lewisham Council have committed to five-year awards running until 2027, while Reaching Communities is a three-year award covering 2024-2027. The Irish Government's Emigrant Support Programme is providing three years funding from July 2025 to June 2028
In addition, we have secured three-year funding from Merchant Taylor for the Playgroup and continue to receive annual support from the Ireland Fund of Great Britain for specific one-off projects.
Income generation
For the year ended 31 March 2025, total income amounted to £357,345 (2024 £320,132) , with total expenditure of £288,211 (2024 £282,022). Restricted income for the period was 277,216 (2024 £264,372), set against restricted expenditure of £22,425 (2024 £251,082). This produced a restricted net income of £51,791 for the year (2024 £13,290) resulting in restricted reserves of £128,918 (2024 £77,147) at year end.
Unrestricted income, derived from class fees, events, and hall hire to local community groups and charities totalled £80,129 (2024 £55,760), with unrestricted expenditure of £62,786 (2024) £30,269. This produced an unrestricted net income of £17,343 (2024 £24,821). The unrestricted reserves at 31 March 2025 stand at £47,612 (2024 £30,269). Income Generation.
LICC continues to generate income through the hire of hall facilities to local community groups and charities, as well as private bookings. While weekday bookings from partner organisations remain steady, private hire continues to present challenges due to noise restrictions associated with the building's proximity to residential properties. However this year we have seen an increase in overall hall hire income to £40,593 (2024 £26,588).
Reserves policy
LICC operates a reserves policy that aims to cover cash flow shortfalls due to uncertainty in the timing of future grant awards. Reserves are monitored regularly by the board of Trustees which remains confident current levels of reserves are proportionate to the organisation's needs.
The Trustees regard £40,000 as a prudent sum to cover running costs for three months.
Total reserves currently stand at £176,550 (2024 £107,415).
Restricted funds currently stand at £128,938 (2024 £77,147 )
Unrestricted funds currently stand at £47,612 (2024 £30,268), however £1,679 (£2024 £2,326) is required to cover future depreciation of fixed assets.
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
Report of the Trustees
FUTURE STRATEGIC DIRECTION
Lewisham Irish Community Centre (LICC) is currently developing a five-year strategic plan for the period 2025-2030. This plan reaffirms our commitment to supporting the welfare of the diverse Irish community, preserving Irish heritage, strengthening collaboration with local services, and advancing organisational development. The strategy will focus on five key areas:
Welfare of the Irish Community
We will maintain our core commitment to the welfare of the Irish community, with an enhanced focus on tailored care for older Irish residents, support for unpaid carers, and therapeutic services addressing mental health and wellbeing, alongside our existing housing and welfare benefits provision
Celebrating the Diversity of the Irish community
LICC will continue to champion inclusivity and openness, ensuring that services reflect the diversity of the Irish community. This includes ongoing support for underrepresented groups such as Irish Travellers, LGBTQI+ individuals, and others who have historically been marginalised.
Collaboration
Building on our strong record of partnership, we will sustain and deepen relationships with key funders and community organisations while seeking new opportunities to broaden our services and activities.
Focus on preserving our Heritage
We will expand our cultural programme to celebrate Irish traditions and heritage across the borough, strengthen the promotion of the Irish language, and highlight stories of emigration-particularly those of older Irish residents and their contributions to London.
Organisational Development
LICC will continue to modernise and professionalise its operations, setting high standards for governance, service delivery, and organisational resilience.
Post year end developments
Since the end of the financial year, LICC has significantly strengthened its financial position by securing three year funding of £389,304 from the Emigrant Support Programme for 2025/26, 2026/27 and 2027/28. This enhanced funding enables the charity to expand its welfare services across Bromley and Croydon and includes investment in a new Community Engagement Officer role, which will support further organisational growth and diversification.
LICC has also secured continued funding from Reaching Communities, City Bridge, and the PIPHC contract through to 2027, as well as renewed ESP and Merchant Taylor funding through to 2028.
Additional new income streams include two year NCIL funding for an extra adviser (£27,214 across 2025-2027) and £66,519 from Lewisham Council's main grants programme for 2026-2029. Both grants are delivered in partnership with Lewisham Local and Age UK, who act as lead partners.
The charity remains actively engaged with Lewisham Council and is in the final stages of agreeing a 25 year lease on its building, a development that will provide long term stability and security.
LICC is therefore in a strong and confident position as it prepares to implement its four year strategic plan for 2026-2030.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing document
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
The Lewisham Irish Community Centre (LICC) is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a company limited by guarantee (as defined by the Companies Act 2006, Company no: 2752450 England & Wales) and with the Charities Commission (Registration no: 1014852).
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Recruitment and appointment of the Management Committee
Voting takes place at the AGM. Candidates for nomination must be a paid up member of LICC; in agreement with the Charities aims and objectives; willing to take up post if elected; not disqualified from being a Charity Trustee and not disqualified from being a Company Director. When recruiting people on to the management committee, members look for a balance of business skills, voluntary sector experience and knowledge of the needs of the local community required to run the charity effectively.
Structure and management
LICC is controlled by a Management Committee of up to 12 Trustees (who are also the directors of the company) for a period of one year. Each Trustee is also a paid up member of LICC. The responsibility of the day to day running of LICC and staff and volunteer management, is entrusted to the CEO who reports to the Management Committee.
Management Committee induction and training
Trustees are welcomed on to the Committee and introduced to other members and staff. They receive an induction pack, which includes a Trustee Declaration form, role description and an invitation to visit the various activities going on in the Centre. New Trustees are asked to complete a skills analysis questionnaire so that training needs can be identified and addressed.
Risk management
As Trustees we are aware of our responsibilities under The Charities SORP (FRS102) to undertake regular risk management reviews. A review has been completed this year and the main tasks have been identified and mitigation strategies are in place.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on 31 January 2026 and signed on its behalf by:
Michael Mc Donnell - Trustee
Page 8
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Lewisham Irish Community Centre ('the Company')
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Kuldeep Sulh FCCA
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants CKR Chartered Certified Accountants CKR House 70 East Hill Dartford, Kent DA1 1RZ
31 January 2026
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Statement of Financial Activities
(Incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account) for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
| Unrestricted Restricted funds funds Notes £ £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 2 11,234 242,558 Other activities & fundraising 3 68,892 34,658 Investment income 4 3 - Total 80,129 277,216 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 2,052 - Charitable activities Charitable Activities 60,734 225,425 Total 62,786 225,425 NET INCOME 17,343 51,791 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 30,269 77,147 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 47,612 128,938 |
31.3.25 Total funds £ 253,792 103,550 3 357,345 2,052 286,159 288,211 69,134 107,416 176,550 |
31.3.24 Total funds £ 241,530 78,600 2 |
|---|---|---|
| 320,132 | ||
| 4,676 277,345 |
||
| 282,021 | ||
| 38,111 69,305 |
||
| 107,416 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Balance Sheet 31 March 2025
| Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 8 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 9 Cash at bank and in hand CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 10 NET CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES CREDITORS Amounts falling due after more than one year 11 NET ASSETS FUNDS 14 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds TOTAL FUNDS |
31.3.25 £ 1,679 72,789 141,327 214,116 (30,400) 183,716 185,395 (8,845) 176,550 47,612 128,938 176,550 |
31.3.24 £ 2,326 39,561 113,221 152,782 (32,764) 120,018 122,344 (14,928) 107,416 30,269 77,147 107,416 |
|---|---|---|
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2025.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
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(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
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(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
The notes form part of these financial statements
continued...
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre (Registered number: 02752450)
Balance Sheet - continued 31 March 2025
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 31 January 2026 and were signed on its behalf by:
Michael Mc Donnell - Trustee
Colum Mackey - Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) '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)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
Financial reporting standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions
The charitable company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemption in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland':
- the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows.
Income
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure.
Raising funds
Cost of generating funds, are those costs incurred in attracting voluntary income and those incurred in trading activities that raise funds.
Charitable activities
- Charitable activities, include expenditure associated with the running of the events at the centre or elsewhere.
Governance costs
Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the charity and its assets and are primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirements.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
Fixtures, fittings & equipment - 25% on cost Computer equipment - 33% on cost and 25% on cost
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
General Funds are unrestricted funds, which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees, in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for any other purpose.
continued...
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES - continued
Fund accounting
Restricted funds can only be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors, or which have been raised by the charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering those funds are charged against the specific fund.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.
Hire purchase and leasing commitments
Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES
| Donations Grants Subscriptions Donated services and facilities Other Income Expenses reimbursed Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: Ireland Fund of GB Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; Emigrant Support Programme Petchy Foundation - Youth Club Southwark Irish Pensioners BSOP The City Bridge Trust - Bridging Divides Funding LBL Core Funding LBL - Warm Welcome / Community Cafe Community Organisations Cost of Living - phase 1 Community Organisations Cost of Living - phase 2 Awards for All - Empowering young people in the local community Merchant Taylor Trust Warm Welcomes Grant (via Lewisham Local) National Lottery / Reaching Communities |
31.3.25 £ 6,214 230,058 20 12,500 5,000 - 253,792 31.3.25 £ 8,000 102,136 900 1,620 30,000 10,000 - - - - 3,070 3,380 70,952 230,058 |
31.3.24 £ 4,634 218,581 340 12,500 5,000 475 |
|---|---|---|
| 241,530 | ||
| 31.3.24 £ 5,000 105,313 600 2,520 35,000 10,000 6,400 19,811 24,001 9,936 - - - |
||
| 218,581 |
continued...
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
3. OTHER ACTIVITIES & FUNDRAISING
| Ticket Sales & event income Fees for Services Hire of Hall INVESTMENT INCOME Deposit account interest NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting): Depreciation - owned assets Other operating leases |
31.3.25 £ 28,299 34,658 40,593 103,550 31.3.25 £ 3 31.3.25 £ 1,139 12,500 |
31.3.24 £ 18,869 33,143 26,588 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 78,600 | |||
| 31.3.24 £ 2 31.3.24 £ 637 12,500 |
4. INVESTMENT INCOME
5. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
6. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024.
Trustees' expenses
There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024.
7. STAFF COSTS
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
| Full time Part time |
31.3.25 4 6 10 |
31.3.24 4 5 9 |
|---|---|---|
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.
The CEO's time was split between generating voluntary income, fundraising, charitable activities and governance. The other part time members of staff spend all of their time on charitable activities.
continued...
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Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS
| Fixtures, fittings & Computer equipment equipment £ £ COST At 1 April 2024 13,991 11,275 Additions - 492 At 31 March 2025 13,991 11,767 DEPRECIATION At 1 April 2024 13,943 8,997 Charge for year - 1,139 At 31 March 2025 13,943 10,136 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 March 2025 48 1,631 At 31 March 2024 48 2,278 9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 £ Other debtors 40,486 Prepayments and accrued income 32,303 72,789 10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 £ Bank loans and overdrafts (see note 12) - Social security and other taxes 3,120 Deposits 4,602 Other creditors 13,052 Credit card 302 Accruals and deferred income 9,324 30,400 |
Fixtures, fittings & Computer equipment equipment £ £ COST At 1 April 2024 13,991 11,275 Additions - 492 At 31 March 2025 13,991 11,767 DEPRECIATION At 1 April 2024 13,943 8,997 Charge for year - 1,139 At 31 March 2025 13,943 10,136 NET BOOK VALUE At 31 March 2025 48 1,631 At 31 March 2024 48 2,278 9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 £ Other debtors 40,486 Prepayments and accrued income 32,303 72,789 10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 £ Bank loans and overdrafts (see note 12) - Social security and other taxes 3,120 Deposits 4,602 Other creditors 13,052 Credit card 302 Accruals and deferred income 9,324 30,400 |
Totals £ 25,266 492 |
|---|---|---|
| 25,758 | ||
| 22,940 1,139 |
||
| 24,079 | ||
| 1,679 | ||
| 2,326 | ||
| 31.3.25 £ 40,486 32,303 72,789 |
31.3.24 £ 3,670 35,891 |
|
| 39,561 | ||
| 31.3.25 £ - 3,120 4,602 13,052 302 9,324 30,400 |
31.3.24 £ 1,874 3,120 3,502 14,602 302 9,364 |
|
| 32,764 |
continued...
Page 16
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued
for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
11. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE AFTER MORE THAN ONE YEAR
| 31.3.25 | 31.3.24 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |||||
| Bank loans (see note 12) | 8,845 | 14,928 | ||||
| 12. | LOANS | |||||
| An analysis of the maturity of loans is given below: | ||||||
| 31.3.25 | 31.3.24 | |||||
| £ | £ | |||||
| Amounts falling due within one year on demand: | ||||||
| Bank overdrafts | - | 1,874 | ||||
| Amounts falling due in more than five years: | ||||||
| Repayable by instalments: | ||||||
| Bank loans more 5 yr by instal | 8,845 | 14,928 | ||||
| The amount disclosed as a loan within these financial statements for £1,874 | (2023 £1,903) | is actually | ||||
| expenditure paid out in respect of a restricted fund paid over | after the year end date, pending | the accrued | ||||
| income. | ||||||
| 13. | ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS | |||||
| 31.3.25 | 31.3.24 | |||||
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total | Total | |||
| funds | funds | funds | funds | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |||
| Fixed assets | 1,679 | - | 1,679 | 2,326 | ||
| Current assets | 81,843 | 132,273 | 214,116 | 152,782 | ||
| Current liabilities | (27,065) | (3,335) | (30,400) | (32,764) | ||
| Long term liabilities | (8,845) | - | (8,845) | (14,928) | ||
| 47,612 | 128,938 | 176,550 | 107,416 |
continued...
Page 17
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
| MOVEMENT IN FUNDS | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Net | |||
| movement | |||
| At 1.4.24 | in funds | At 31.3.25 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| Other Unrestricted | 28,151 | 17,927 | 46,078 |
| Befrending project | 2,118 | (984) | 1,134 |
| Back to school donation | - | 400 | 400 |
| 30,269 | 17,343 | 47,612 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Department of Foreign Affairs and | |||
| Trade-ESP | 17,494 | 6,877 | 24,371 |
| Ireland Fund of GB | - | 5,000 | 5,000 |
| Back Garden Project LBL & Crowd | |||
| Funding | 3,687 | - | 3,687 |
| ESP - GRT Project | 2,309 | 469 | 2,778 |
| Petchy Foundation | 600 | 600 | 1,200 |
| ESP Lewisham Irish Pensioners | 2,625 | (1,435) | 1,190 |
| ESP Southwark, Lambeth & Lewisham | |||
| Outreach | 2,279 | 6,000 | 8,279 |
| Community Cafe & Wellbeing Group | 2,539 | (2,391) | 148 |
| The Benevolent Society of St Patrick | 385 | 55 | 440 |
| The City Bridge Trust | 38,539 | (6,724) | 31,815 |
| The National Lottery Community Fund - | |||
| EYP | 6,690 | (6,690) | - |
| Merchant Taylor Trust | - | 3,070 | 3,070 |
| Warm welcome | - | 1,707 | 1,707 |
| The National Lottery Fund - Reaching | |||
| Communities | - | 45,253 | 45,253 |
| 77,147 | 51,791 | 128,938 | |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 107,416 | 69,134 | 176,550 |
continued...
Page 18
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Incoming | Resources | Movement | |
|---|---|---|---|
| resources | expended | in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| Other Unrestricted | 76,629 | (58,702) | 17,927 |
| Befrending project | 2,500 | (3,484) | (984) |
| Back to school donation | 1,000 | (600) | 400 |
| 80,129 | (62,786) | 17,343 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Department of Foreign Affairs and | |||
| Trade-ESP | 69,136 | (62,259) | 6,877 |
| Ireland Fund of GB | 8,000 | (3,000) | 5,000 |
| LBL Rent | 12,500 | (12,500) | - |
| ESP - GRT Project | 34,658 | (34,189) | 469 |
| Petchy Foundation | 900 | (300) | 600 |
| ESP Lewisham Irish Pensioners | 9,000 | (10,435) | (1,435) |
| ESP Southwark, Lambeth & Lewisham | |||
| Outreach | 24,000 | (18,000) | 6,000 |
| Community Cafe & Wellbeing Group | - | (2,391) | (2,391) |
| LB Lewisham - core funding | 10,000 | (10,000) | - |
| The Benevolent Society of St Patrick | 1,620 | (1,565) | 55 |
| The City Bridge Trust | 30,000 | (36,724) | (6,724) |
| The National Lottery Community Fund - | |||
| EYP | - | (6,690) | (6,690) |
| Merchant Taylor Trust | 3,070 | - | 3,070 |
| Warm welcome | 3,380 | (1,673) | 1,707 |
| The National Lottery Fund - Reaching | |||
| Communities | 70,952 | (25,699) | 45,253 |
| 277,216 | (225,425) | 51,791 | |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 357,345 | (288,211) | 69,134 |
continued...
Page 19
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
| Net movement At 1.4.23 in funds At £ £ Unrestricted funds Other Unrestricted 5,448 22,703 Befrending project - 2,118 5,448 24,821 Restricted funds Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade-ESP 13,849 3,645 Back Garden Project LBL & Crowd Funding 3,687 - ESP - GRT Project 2,309 - Petchy Foundation 334 266 ESP Lewisham Irish Pensioners 1,505 1,120 ESP Southwark, Lambeth & Lewisham Outreach 656 1,623 Community Spaces At Risk 2,580 (2,580) Community Cafe & Wellbeing Group 148 2,391 The Benevolent Society of St Patrick 250 135 The City Bridge Trust 38,539 - The National Lottery Community Fund - EYP - 6,690 63,857 13,290 TOTAL FUNDS 69,305 38,111 |
31.3.24 £ 28,151 2,118 30,269 17,494 3,687 2,309 600 2,625 2,279 - 2,539 385 38,539 6,690 77,147 107,416 |
|---|---|
continued...
Page 20
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Incoming | Resources | Movement | |
|---|---|---|---|
| resources | expended | in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| Other Unrestricted | 52,760 | (30,057) | 22,703 |
| Befrending project | 3,000 | (882) | 2,118 |
| 55,760 | (30,939) | 24,821 | |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Department of Foreign Affairs and | |||
| Trade-ESP | 72,313 | (68,668) | 3,645 |
| Ireland Fund of GB | 5,000 | (5,000) | - |
| LBL Rent | 12,500 | (12,500) | - |
| ESP - GRT Project | 33,143 | (33,143) | - |
| Petchy Foundation | 748 | (482) | 266 |
| ESP Lewisham Irish Pensioners | 9,000 | (7,880) | 1,120 |
| ESP Southwark, Lambeth & Lewisham | |||
| Outreach | 24,000 | (22,377) | 1,623 |
| Community Spaces At Risk | - | (2,580) | (2,580) |
| Community Cafe & Wellbeing Group | 6,400 | (4,009) | 2,391 |
| LB Lewisham - core funding | 10,000 | (10,000) | - |
| The Benevolent Society of St Patrick | 2,520 | (2,385) | 135 |
| The City Bridge Trust | 35,000 | (35,000) | - |
| The National Lottery Community Fund - | |||
| phase 2 | 24,001 | (24,001) | - |
| The National Lottery Community Fund - | |||
| phase 1 | 19,811 | (19,811) | - |
| The National Lottery Community Fund - | |||
| EYP | 9,936 | (3,246) | 6,690 |
| 264,372 | (251,082) | 13,290 | |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 320,132 | (282,021) | 38,111 |
continued...
Page 21
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
14. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Further information on funds.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade: The Emigrant Support Programme received a grant of £102,136 for the year from 1st July 2024 to 30th June 2025 (2024 £105,313). The funds were restricted for the following projects:
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| Information, Advice & Support | £58,000 | £58,000 |
| Gypsy Roma Travellers Outreach Service | £11,136 | £14,313 |
| SLL Outreach Advice Partnership Project | £24,000 | £24,000 |
| Elders Project | £9,000 | £9,000 |
Lewisham Irish Pensioners Association , was merged into LICC during 2018/19. The balance of funds at the time of its cessation were donated to LICC. These funds are unrestricted but have been denoted as a designated fund.
Ireland Fund of Great Britain this relates to funding of £3,000 for language & music , plus £5,000 from the Community Impact fund 2025 for befriending & outreach work to the elderly in the community.(2024 £2,500)
LBL Crowd Funding Award - Back Garden Project £3,687 brought forward with no expenditure during the year due to Covid in affected years, & pending additional funding that would be required to complete the project.
City Bridge Trust funding was awarded November 2022 for £150,000 in phased quarterly instalments. This is over five years towards salary costs of a Senior Advice Worker to support, supervise and lead the advice team delivering services to the Irish Community and Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Communities in the London Borough of Lewisham, supported by City Bridge Trust, the funding arm of The City of London Corporation’s charity, Bridge House Estates (1035628). £30,000 was awarded 24/25 (2024 £35,000)
Jack Petchy Foundation relates to annual funding awarded to the youth club members to spend on the club through the year 2024 /25
Merchant Taylor Trust this is three year funding towards the playgroup coordinator . The funding was awarded in 2024 and deferred to 2025 due to delays with recruitment .
The National Lottery - Reaching Communities - is three-year funding towards LICC welfare services and community activities , awarded in November 2024 , this is a three-year award totalling £268,345, of which £70, 952 was receivable 2024-25.
Warm Welcome Funding this is Lewisham Borough Council funding to support local groups and provide warm spaces with access to refreshments and activities specifically throughout the winder months .LICC uses the funds to contribute to the Warm Welcome Community Café.
LBL Core Funding -
Lewisham Council Core funding refers to a three year partnership grant of £30,000 in total across three years This grant concluded in 2025
Awards for All - Empowering Young People (EYP) £9,936 was awarded 2023/24 but expended during 2024-25 in respect of delivering Youth Club services.
continued...
Page 22
Lewisham Irish Community Centre
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 March 2025
15. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
In respect of individual restricted funds held, whilst there are no time limits stipulated on expenditure thereof, should expenditure not ultimately be incurred in line with the original intended use outlined in the original funding applications, or should an alternative use for those specified funds not be agreed, the funders reserve the right to request repayment of restricted funds held.
16. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025.
17. INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION
Lewisham Irish Community Centre has appointed Kuldeep Sulh F.C.C.A. of CKR Chartered Certified Accountants to independently review its annual accounts for the period. The cost of the Independent examiners fee is £350 (2024 £350),
.
Page 23