Luton Mediation
15 New Bedford Road
Luton
LU1 1SA
Email: info@lutonmediation.co.uk
(Reg. Charity No: 1025520)
Twenty Ninth Annual Report
2021-2022
Working with
Luton Borough Council
(including tenancy enforcement, environment protection)) Safer Luton Partnership Bedfordshire Police Housing Associations
Chairpersons Welcome
Luton Mediation continues to provide a valuable service to residents of Luton in resolving conflicts in spite of shrinking budgets and competitive demands for the work.
Debbie and Lorna have strived to maintain the high quality service that Luton Mediation has become synonymous with. I want to thank them personally for their commitment and loyalty to the organisation, especially when we are trying really hard to maintain and deliver a service with shrinking resources.
We are thankful for each and every one of our volunteers and appreciate the time that they give in enabling the service to support many local people to resolve conflicts and retain a better quality of life.
The year ahead will be challenging in the current climate and we will endeavour to secure ongoing funds to keep the service in existence. We are indebted to those who have already funded the work and hope that others will see the benefits of the service and want to be a part of it.
It is a pleasure to be associated with the organisation both as the Vice Chair and the Staff Liaison Officer.
Joan Bailey
Service Report
2021 - 2022 has again proven to be both a busy and challenging year.
We have had 294 enquiries into the office of which 92 cases were full cases.
We were fortunate to be funded by LLAL and have continued to work closely & Build relationships with other organisations.
Unfortunately, we have lost our funding for the next year(2022-2023) and we continue to work hard sourcing other avenues of income.
We continue to use our volunteer mediators for cases within Luton Borough.
The 92 cases that were opened directly impacted the lives of over 250 people, which is a huge amount.
Mediation continues to be an effective and positive way to resolve issues and changes the lives of people affected.
Our mediators continue to work hard and support the service.
We have had some complex and challenging cases and we are very grateful for their Continued support.
Debbie Gibbons
Total Enquiries to the service = 294 (202 signposted/no further action) Casework : 92 Cases Opened
| TOTAL | Self Referrals |
LBC Housing |
Tenancy Enforcement |
Community Safety |
Housing Associations |
Central Beds |
Police | Environmental Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92 | 48 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 21 | 4 | 8 | 1 |
Case Analysis
| ASB | 25 |
|---|---|
| Hate Crime | 2 |
| Noise | 26 |
| Parking | 24 |
| Harassment | 4 |
| Rubbish | 8 |
| Boundaries | 3 |
Disability
| Yes | No | Unknown Prefer not to say |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 63 | 5 | |
| AGE | |||
| 17-24 | 3 | ||
| 25-34 | 12 | ||
| 35-49 | 31 | ||
| 50-64 | 40 | ||
| 65+ | 2 | ||
| Unknown | 4 |
Referrals by ethnicity
| White British | 28 |
|---|---|
| White European | 10 |
| Pakistani | 18 |
| Bangladeshi | 8 |
| Caribbean | 4 |
| Black African | 4 |
| Black Other | 2 |
| Mixed Heritage | 4 |
| Indian | 3 |
| Asian Other | 4 |
| Traveller/Gypsy | 1 |
| Other | 2 |
| Unknown/prefer not to say |
4 |
16
| Gender | Gender | |
|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | Other |
| 38 | 52 | 2 |
What did our clients think of us?
Service Evaluation forms are sent to all clients who met with mediators In 2021-2022 we had 19 replies
1. Booking the appointment .
| Very satisfied | Fairly Satisfied | Undecided | Fairly dissatisfied | Very dissatisfied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 89% | 10% | 0% | 0% | 1% |
2. How well did we keep you informed of progress?
| Very well | Fairly Well | Undecided | Fairly poorly | Very poorly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 93% | 6% | 0% | 0% | 1% |
3. How do you feel the mediators treated you?
| Fairly | Undecided | Unfairly |
|---|---|---|
| 95% | 4% | 1% |
4. How well do you think the mediators listened to you?
| Very well | Fairly Well | Undecided | Fairly Poorly | Very Poorly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 91% | 8% | 0% | 0% | 1% |
5. How well did the mediators explain the mediation process?
| Very well | Fairly well | Undecided | Fairly Poorly | Very Poorly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94% | 5% | 0% | 0% | 1% |
6. Case Outcome
| Better | Same | Worse |
|---|---|---|
| 86% | 13% | 1% |
7. Would you try mediation again or recommend us to someone else?
| Definitely | Likely | Undecided | Unlikely to | Definitely not |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71% | 15% | 13% | 0% | 1% |
WHO’S WHO
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Joan Bailey Chairperson Norah Kitimbo Vice chairperson Rajab Ali Treasurer Kerryann Spencer Secretary Joan Bailey Staff Liaison Kerryann Spencer Mediator Rep Summara Khurshid LBC rep
OFFICE STAFF
Lorna Chandler Senior Caseworker Debbie Gibbons Manager
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
TRUSTEES REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2022
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
Report of the Trustees
The trustees present their report and financial statements for the year ended March 31[st] , 2022
Administrative details
Name: Luton Mediation
Registered Charity Number: 1025520
Principal Office: Community House, 15 New Bedford Road, Luton, LU1 1SA
Management Committee
Joan Bailey (Chair)
Rajab Ali (Vice Chair)
Norah Kitimbo (Treasurer)
Kerryann Spencer (Secretary)
Governance and Management
The governing instrument is the constitution, which was adopted 18[th] March 1993, amended 14[th] November 2006. Management is through a board of trustees called “Management Committee” (MC) of up to a maximum of eight, nominated by members and elected at the AGM.
Management Meetings are held quarterly.
Objectives
Our charitable objectives are to promote for the public benefit in the Borough of Luton; and upon specific request, when resources will allow, the surrounding area; with a view to the preservation of public order. The provision of services directed towards mediation and conciliation between persons, organisations and groups who are involved in dispute or interpersonal conflict where that dispute or conflict results from or may lead to acts of nuisance, vandalism, breach of the peace or hate crime. To educate the public in the Borough of Luton about the methods of mediation and conciliation, the nature and causes of dispute and ways of managing it.
Public Benefit Statement
In setting objectives and planning activities the Trustees have considered the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit.
1
Main Activities
Luton Mediation aims to resolve disputes by using trained mediators to negotiate agreement between disputing parties. Our focus is to offer a mediation service for neighbour disputes.
Review of the Year
We have received 92 referrals this year. Many cases have been more complex than previous years. The Covid 19 pandemic is still impacting people’s lives.
The types of neighbourhood Issues we have dealt with include, Anti-social behaviour, racial harassment, noise nuisance and parking.
Reserves
The level of unrestricted reserves on 31[st] March 2022 was £47,469. It is the trustees view that it is prudent to ensure that there are enough reserves to cover 3 months operating costs.
Approved by the trustees and signed on its behalf by:
Trustee:
Trustee:
Date: 20/9/22
2
Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees of Luton Mediation
I report on the accounts of Luton Mediation for the year ending 31[st] March 2022 which are set out on pages 4 - 8.
Respective Responsibilities of Trustees
As Trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. You consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed
It is my responsibility to:
-
Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act
-
To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b)
-
To state whether matters have come to my attention
Basis of Independent Examiner’s Report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. The examination of Luton Mediation’s accounts includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from trustees concerning such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair” view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent Examiner’s Statement
In connection with my examination no matter has come to my attention or have not been met:
(1) Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
-
To keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act
-
To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act
(2) To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Signed
Joanne Hunter Date 27 Bengeo Mews 05.09.22
Bengeo Street
Hertford
SG14 3TL
3
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 MARCH 2022
| 2022 | 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Notes | Total funds | Total Funds | |
| unrestricted | unrestricted | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Income | |||
| Income from charitable activities | 1 | 37,459 | 43,752 |
| Mediation and advice services | |||
| Investment Income | 2 | 14 | 163 |
| Total Income | 37,473 | 43,915 | |
| Expenditure | |||
| Expenditure on charitable activities | 3 | 39,173 | 46,913 |
| Total expenditure | 39,173 | 46,913 | |
| Net Income/(Expenditure) and net movement in funds | (1,700) | (2,998) | |
| for the year | |||
| Reconciliation of Funds | |||
| Total Funds brought forward on 1stApril 2021 | 53,244 | 57,999 | |
| Total Funds carried forward on 31stMarch 2022 | 47,469 | 53,244 |
4
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2022
| Fixed Assets Tangible Assets Current Assets Debtors Cash at hand and in bank Total Liabilities Creditors falling due within one year Net current assets Total net assets Funds of the Charity Unrestricted Income Funds |
2022 £ 190 3,989 47,279 51,458 4,179 47,279 47,469 47,469 |
2021 £ 1718 3,000 56,244 56,244 |
|---|---|---|
| 4,718 51,526 57,799 |
||
| 53,244 |
Approved by the Trustees Signed on their behalf by:
Trustee: Trustee: Date: 20/9/22
5
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 MARCH 2022
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of this preparation
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the statement of recommended practice in accordance with the financial reporting standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)
These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated.
-
a. Reconciliation with previous generally accepted accounting practice: In preparing the accounts the trustees have considered whether in applying the accounting policies required by the Charities SORP 102 the statement of comparative items was required. No restatements were required.
-
b. Fund Accounting: The charity’s unrestricted funds which the charity may use for its purpose at its discretion. The charity’s restricted funds are those where the donor has imposed restrictions on the use of funds which are legally binding.
-
c. Income: All income is recognised for when the charity has entitlement, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably
-
d. Expenditure: Is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payment to a third party. It is probable that settlement will be required, and the obligation can be measured reliably.
-
e. Support Costs: Include central functions that assist the work of the charity but do not directly undertake charitable activities. These have been allocated between governance costs and other support. Governance costs are the costs associated with general running of the charity as opposed to costs associated with fundraising or charitable activity.
-
f. Tangible fixed assets and depreciation: Assets costing £500 or more are included at their historical cost and are depreciated over their estimated useful life. IT equipment at 33.3% Furniture & other equipment at 25%
6
LUTON MEDIATION
Registered Charity Number 1025520
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 MARCH 2022
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted Funds | Unrestricted Funds | |
| Income from charitable activities | £ | £ |
| Grant- LLAL | 26,358 | 27,255 |
| Mediation Advice fees | 11,016 | 16,497 |
| 37,374 | 43,792 | |
| 1. Investment Income | £ | £ |
| Bank Interest | 163 | 163 |
| 2. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities, | ||
| mediation and advice services | ||
| Salaries | 20,700 | 20,800 |
| Travel | 97 | 0 |
| Training | 0 | 0 |
| Premises | 2,100 | 3,800 |
| Communications | 1,800 | 2,125 |
| General Administration | 866 | 823 |
| Meetings & Conferences | 25 | 7 |
| IT / Software | 2,500 | 2,282 |
| Insurance | 837 | 833 |
| Governance Costs | 3,500 | 3,900 |
| Support Costs | 8,848 | 12,343 |
| Total | 39,173 | 46,913 |
7
| 3. Staff Costs Wages and Salaries National Insurance costs Total |
2022 30,296 1,740 32,036 |
2021 30,300 1,843 32,143 |
|---|---|---|
No Employees received employee benefits for the reporting period of more than £60,000 (200: nil) The average monthly number of employees during the year:
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Total Employees | 2 | 2 |
| 4. Debtors: amounts falling due within one year | ||
| 2022 | 2021 | |
| Debtors | 989 | 1,460 |
| Prepayments and accrued income | nil | nil |
| 989 | 1,460 | |
| 5. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year | ||
| 2022 | 2021 | |
| Accrued Expenses | nil | nil |
6. Trustees.
None of the trustees received reimbursement of expenses or any other benefits in the year under review (2019: nil)
8
Independent Examiner’s Report to the Trustees of Luton Mediation
I report on the accounts of Luton Mediation for the year ending 31[st] March 2022 which are set out on pages 4 -8.
Respective Responsibilities of Trustees
As Trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. You consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed
It is my responsibility to:
-
Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act
-
To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b)
-
To state whether matters have come to my attention
Basis of Independent Examiner’s Report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. The examination of Luton Mediation’s accounts includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from trustees concerning such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair” view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent Examiner’s Statement
In connection with my examination no matter has come to my attention or have not been met:
(1) Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
-
To keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act
-
To prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act
(2) To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Signed
Joanne Hunter
Date 27 Bengeo Mews 05.09.22