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← Nottingham Counselling Service

2025-03-31-accounts

Annual Report and Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

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Contents

Reference and Administrative Details
Trustees’ Report
Independent Examiner’s Report
Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet
Notes to the Financial Statements
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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Reference and Administrative Details

Trustees

Secretary

Martyn Groves-Williams Maria Arruda Shahin Meah Stephen Goode Dari Gfeller Emma Maraio Anju Virdee Shoana Qureshi-Khan

Senior Management Team

Senior Management Team Shoana Qureshi-Khan, CEO Shaz Majid, Service Manager Shelley Macdonald, Clinical Lead (from February 2025) Charity Registration Number 1045464 Company Registration Number 02948386 Unit 5 Victoria Court Registered Office Kent Street Nottingham NGI 3LZ Independent Examiner Eva Stevens Employee of Community Accounting Plus Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NGl 5GL

Above: Staff, trainees and volunteers

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Trustees’ Report

The trustees, who are directors for the purposes of company law, present the annual report together with the financial statements of the charitable company for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Trustees and officers

The trustees and officers serving during the year and since the year end were as follows:

Trustees Benjamin Waldram (resigned I March 2025)
Maeve Fitzpatrick (resigned 1 January 2025)
Martyn Groves-Williams
Maria Arruda
Michael Lees (resigned 1 October 2024)
Samuel Nichols (resigned 21 October 2025)
Christopher Julien Bouyer Sims (resigned 10 June 2025)
Shahin Meah (appointed 14 November 2024)
Stephen Goode (appointed 21 February 2025)
Dari Gfeller (appointed 1 February 2025)
Emma Maraio (appointed 1 February 2025)
Anju Virdee (appointed 1 February 2025)
Secretary Shoana Qureshi-Khan

Structure, governance and management

Nature of governing document

The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered as a Charity since 1983 and incorporated 14 July 1994. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association (amended 13 August 2013) which establishes the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up the members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1.

Organisational governance

Nottingham Counselling Service (NCS) is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. The organisation is governed by a Board of Trustees responsible for setting strategy, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and safeguarding the charity’s assets and reputation. Day-to-day management is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer, who works closely with the Clinical Lead and staff team to deliver services in line with our mission and values. In 2025, the Board underwent a renewal, bringing in Trustees from diverse backgrounds, ages, genders, and ethnicities. Several Trustees contribute specialist expertise in areas such as risk, finance, governance, strategy, and organisational growth, strengthening the organisation’s leadership capacity.

The Board now meets quarterly and operates within a clear governance framework, supported by policies, risk management procedures, and regular monitoring of performance and impact.

To enhance effectiveness, NCS has introduced a skills audit and, improving communication, identifying training needs, and ensuring that Trustees are fully equipped to guide the charity strategically. These measures provide confidence that NCS remains accountable, transparent, and focused on delivering safe, effective, and highquality services to the communities we serve.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Induction and training of trustees

In February 2025, NCS welcomed a new group of Trustees recruited through a rigorous process, bringing with them a wide range of backgrounds, ages, genders, and ethnicities. Each Trustee has a clear role within the organisation and shares a strong passion for supporting the local community and the people of Nottingham. Several Trustees bring valuable prior experience in areas such as risk, finance, governance, strategy, and organisational growth, making this an exciting period of renewal and development for NCS. A core group of Trustees has now been established, and the Board meets quarterly to provide strategic leadership and oversight. To strengthen effectiveness, we have introduced a skills audit and held a visioning day, both of which have helped to improve communication, identify training needs, and enhance the collective capacity of the Board.

Major risks and management of those risks

The Trustees have continued to actively review and monitor the risks faced by the charity. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for maintaining and updating the organisation’s Risk Register and monitors cash flow on a routine basis. Financial statements, including the Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Statement, are produced quarterly and presented to the Board for review. During this period, NCS has made significant improvements in its governance and financial management. Last year, the primary financial risk related to covering the costs of two Chief Executive salaries over a six-month period and associated interim Executive costs. This year, these challenges have been successfully addressed, and the organisation has secured a five-year funding settlement from the National Lottery, providing stability and enabling long-term planning.

Alongside financial improvements, governance has strengthened through the resignation of previous longstanding trustees who we thank for their service and support, and the appointment of new Trustees, the introduction of a trustees skills audit, and enhancing strategic oversight and board effectiveness. These developments ensure that NCS continues to deliver high-quality services to Nottingham’s diverse communities while pursuing sustainable income streams and aligning funding with the organisation’s long-term ambitions.

Director’s Report

The Trustees are pleased to present their Annual Report, which incorporates both the Directors’ Report and the Financial Statements for Nottingham Counselling Services (the “Charity”) for the year ended 31 March 2025. This report has been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements of the Charities Act for the Trustees’ Annual Report and the Companies Act for the Directors’ Report and Accounts.

This report offers a comprehensive overview of the Charity’s performance over the past year, highlighting its financial position and the continued positive impact of its services within the local community. In addition to fulfilling statutory obligations, the Trustees have included reflections on the Charity’s activities, governance framework, and the ways in which it has responded to evolving challenges-particularly the increasing demand for mental health support.

The Trustees extend their sincere gratitude to our dedicated team of staff, supervisors, therapists, and volunteers. Their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in delivering high-quality counselling and therapeutic services throughout the year.

We trust that this report accurately captures the significant progress made by Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS) during the reporting period from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025.

Forward - Chief Executive Officer

In reflection, it is crucial that we celebrate the enormity of what NCS has undergone in recent years. Despite a period of immense turbulence for charities, we take pride in where we stand today compared with the last two financial years. The history of the organisation, the strength of its leadership, the dedication of our staff, and the commitment of our clinical professionals have all been central to this journey. NCS has demonstrated fortitude, resilience, creativity, and growth. We recognise that challenges remain: the financial crisis at Nottingham City Council, the rise in mental health conditions, and increasing complexity of need. These intersecting pressures intensify the difficulties faced by individuals, and NCS witnesses this reality daily. Yet, our commitment remains steadfast - ensuring the people of Nottingham can access the vital therapeutic support they need.

- Shoana Qureshi-Khan, Chief Executive Officer

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Forward - Chair of Trustees

In February 2025, the Board of Trustees was renewed following a thorough interview process. The new Trustees bring experience across commercial, voluntary, and public sectors, strengthening an existing Board that had been steering NCS through demanding financial situations. Entering the new financial year, NCS received a fiveyear funding settlement from the National Lottery, providing security and enabling us to plan for the future. This allows us to strengthen our delivery model, explore growth opportunities, and maintain our enduring commitment to volunteers. I welcome Anju, Dari and Shahin who with myself have volunteered to help steer NCS in between now Quarterly meetings. It feels that both grip and a sense of direction are well combined in the new Governance model. It’s such an important part of the network of the organisation who provide high quality counselling and therapies to individuals from all backgrounds in the greater Nottingham area and beyond.

- Dr Stephen Goode CBE, Chair of Trustees

Objectives and activities

Our work is focused on meeting the growing mental health needs across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, supporting individuals aged 17 and above. We provide therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, suicidal ideation, domestic violence, bereavement, and other complex issues. Services include individual counselling, group therapy, Employee Assistance Programmes, specialist support for racialised communities, refugees and asylum seekers, art therapy, and training for professionals.

Objects and aims

Our work is focused on meeting the growing mental health needs across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire, supporting individuals aged 17 and above.

We specialise in providing therapeutic support for clients experiencing:

Through our services, individuals benefit from timely and professional support designed to reduce distress, build resilience, and promote long-term wellbeing.

As national demand for mental health services continues to grow, the challenge is particularly acute in Nottingham. National estimates suggest that around one in four adults experience mental health problems nottinghamshireinsight.org.uk, and local conditions such as deprivation and high-risk populations are significantly above the national average (data from Nottinghamshireinsight.org.uk).

In 2019, Nottingham was ranked the 11th most deprived district out of 317 in England based on the Index of Multiple Deprivation nottinghaminsight.org.uk. The city also has notably high levels of Severe Multiple Disadvantage (SMD)this is people who are experiencing multiple interlinked issues such as mental health conditions, homelessness, substance misuse, and criminal justice involvement-placing it 8th highest in England, affecting over 5,000 residents (data from Nottinghamshireinsight.org.uk).

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

According to the 2021 Census, Nottingham’s population is diverse: approximately 34% of residents identify as belonging to non-White ethnic groups (with 14.9% Asian and 10% Black) (data from Wikipedia). This diversity underscores the urgent need for culturally competent mental health services tailored to communities from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Following Nottingham City Council’s declaration of bankruptcy in November 2023, significant cuts to jobs and services were approved to close a £53 million budget shortfall, placing further strain on already overstretched mental health support systems.

Who Benefits from Our Work

Our services are accessed by people from a wide range of backgrounds, including those facing financial hardship, marginalisation, or barriers to mainstream support. We provide tailored interventions to meet individual needs, ensuring equity of access and meaningful outcomes.

Where We Work and Number of Beneficiaries

NCS operates throughout the city of Nottingham and the wider Nottinghamshire area. We are located in Victoria Court, near Nottingham’s city centre, and our facility includes nine individual therapy rooms, each designed to foster a calming and therapeutic atmosphere. Two of these rooms are on the ground floor, providing accessible spaces for clients with mobility issues.

During the last financial year, 670 individuals received in the region of 9,829 therapy hours and counselling sessions through NCS, marking a substantial increase compared to the previous year. However, the increased demand has also led to a rise in our waiting list, with on average, 30 individuals are now waiting for between 6-12 weeks before they can access their first therapy session.

Service users benefit from one or more of the following:

The Difference We Make

At Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS), our mission is to break the cycle of mental illness-particularly for individuals affected by trauma and those facing complex barriers to accessing therapy. We work with diverse communities and are committed to delivering services that are culturally sensitive, inclusive, and accessible to all who need them.

To assess the effectiveness of our interventions, we use a combination of clinician-administered and selfreported tools. In a recent sample of I 00 clients, evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), we observed significant improvements across key mental health outcomes:

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

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77%
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71%
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81%
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92%
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77% reported improved 71% experienced 81% demonstrated 92% showed improved coping strategies enhanced day-to-day greater insight and emotional expression and functioning understanding problem articulation

These results reflect the transformative impact of our therapeutic approach. Unlike short-term models, our longer-term counselling enables deep healing, helping individuals to recover, rebuild, and break entrenched cycles of trauma and distress.

Despite ongoing challenges-including funding cuts and increasing demand-NCS continues to serve as a vital resource for Nottingham’s most vulnerable populations. We remain one of the few accessible therapy services in the region, addressing trauma, intersectionality, and complex mental health needs with compassion and expertise.

We place great importance on understanding the lived experiences of our clients. Feedback is collected at multiple stages-during assessments, throughout therapy, and upon completion-alongside recovery measures, social engagement scores, and physical and mental health indicators. This comprehensive approach allows us to evaluate the real-world impact of our services and continuously improve them.

We are also proud to be one of the largest providers of student placements in the region, supporting trainee counsellors on their journey to becoming qualified practitioners. Feedback from both clients and students plays a crucial role in shaping our services, ensuring they remain meaningful, effective, and responsive to evolving needs.

Client Experience & Impact

Post-Assessment Feedback

Clients consistently describe the assessment process as supportive and comfortable. One client shared:

The interview was relaxed and not pressured. I felt listened to, understood everything, and could ask questions. It really explored my hopes and expectations.

End-of-Therapy Feedback

Clients report meaningful personal change by the end of therapy. Average ratings include: 9/10 for overall experience.

9/10 for overall experience 9.5/10 for office environment

Common outcomes include:

One client reflected:

I was anxious about many things, including medical treatments. Now I’m more accepting, more open with others, and treat myself with greater compassion.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Case Studies

Client A

(Afro-Caribbean male, 35-50, self-referred via BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)-funded project)

Faced with racial discrimination and past negative experiences with mental health services, Client A entered therapy feeling overlooked and mistrustful. Through counselling, he processed trauma, isolation, and inherited emotional burdens. With empathy and unconditional positive regard, he is rebuilding self-belief, resilience, and hope for meaningful relationships and stability.

Client B

(Female, 30-40, low-cost therapy model)

Initially presenting with restlessness, low motivation, and self-criticism, Client B sought to explore unresolved trauma and relationship issues. Therapy provided a safe space to process fear, shame, and loss. She is now moving forward with greater self-compassion, emotional clarity, and confidence in her inner strength.

Our Constitutions

The purpose of Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS), as outlined m the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, is:

To promote charitable purposes for the benefit of the population primarily within Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands, with a particular focus on the furtherance of health and the relief of distress and sickness associated with emotional, personal, marital, family, or related problems.

In support of this purpose, NCS aims to:

Provide a high-quality, confidential, and accessible counselling service to individuals in need.

Build a community of therapists by supporting their education, training, and career development, fostering growth for counselling professionals.

Develop counselling resources based on internal learning from working with diverse cohorts, as well as external insights derived from the specific needs of the local area, to continuously enhance mental health support.

When shaping our objectives and planning activites, the trustees consistently consider the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. Each year, we carefully evaluate the balance between the financial resources required to maintain a sustainable and dependable service and the growing demand for mental health support in our community. We are committed to adapting to an ever-changing environment while ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of those we serve.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Who We Are

Our Constitution and Aims

The purpose of Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS), as outlined in the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, is to promote charitable purposes for the benefit of the population primarily within Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands, with a focus on health and the relief of distress associated with emotional, personal, family, or related problems.

Our Vision

At NCS, we believe therapy is life-changing. It provides a pathway to wellbeing, healing, and hope. At Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS), we believe therapy is life-changing. It provides a vital pathway to emotional wellbeing, healing, and hope.

As a leading mental health charity with a long-standing presence in Nottingham and the wider region, we are proud to support individuals from all backgrounds. Our services are accessible, affordable, and rooted in clinical excellence and inclusion - because everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

We offer a wide range of therapy options to meet different needs and stages of life, including individual counselling (from six-month programmes to two-year long-term support), art therapy, and therapeutic groups. Therapy at NCS provides a safe and compassionate space for recovery, where wellbeing is nurtured through client-centred care.

Our Mission

We deliver high-quality, accessible counselling and psychotherapy for adults aged 17+ experiencing emotional distress or complex challenges.

Our Values

Our Commitment

Despite ongoing challenges, NCS continues to grow and adapt, remaining a cornerstone of mental health support in Nottingham. Many of our referrals are from those who have had poor experiences of therapy often using mainstream or private services, NCS works on whole person systems and works alongside the complexity of the world today. To facilitate the changing landscape our therapists are supported by robust supervision, deliver clinically excellent care that meets a wide range of client needs. We are proud of the dedication and professionalism that drives our mission forward.

The feedback we receive affirms the transformative power of therapy and the life-changing impact of our work. We are deeply grateful to our therapeutic community, whose commitment continues to improve lives every day.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Public benefit

We carry out one to one counselling, couples, families, groups and lead on projects with those marginalised or disadvantaged.

The trustees confirm that they have complied with the requirements of section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

Achievements and performance

Service Reach and Impact

April 2024 - March 2025

Nottingham Counselling Service (NCS) supported over 670 clients across a range of therapeutic services, reflecting both rising demand and our growing reputation as a trusted provider in Nottingham.

Service Delivery Overview

Key insights

Above: BACP work and award

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

External Partnerships and Networks Involvement

This year has marked a period of celebration and strategic growth for Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS), showcasing the success of innovative projects and reinforcing our role as a leading mental health charity going as far back as 1875 addressing mental health and social inequality.

BACP-Funded Partnership with Himmah

A major milestone was securing two years of BACP funding to reach racialised commumties through a pioneering partnership with Himmah. NCS, recognised as a pioneering organisation in improving therapy access, joined forces with Himmah-a trusted community leader in tackling racism and promoting social mobility.

Together, we launched a high-profile event featuring expert panellists and have delivered over 150 counselling sessions, directly addressing long-standing inequalities in mental health access. This partnership is creating a lasting legacy, strengthening NCS’s capacity to serve marginalised groups.

Tackling Loneliness

In response to rising loneliness among therapy clients, NCS became a Community Health Champion in partnership with Public Health Nottingham. We developed innovative group programmes including:

These initiatives have helped individuals build resilience, confidence, and meaningful relationships, reducing isolation and improving wellbeing.

Suicide Prevention

Suicide prevention remains central to our mission. NCS provides critical support to individuals at high risk, offering compassionate, clinically robust care. We’ve upskilled therapists to meet growing community needs and expanded access for those with complex trauma.

In collaboration with Nottingham Forest Football Club (NFFC) and other partners, we are developing campaigns to engage men in mental health conversations, reduce stigma, and promote suicide prevention.

Mental Health Support for People Seeking Asylum and Refugees

NCS has delivered over 200 therapy sessions and 16 engagement events for asylum seekers and refugeesgroups often excluded from mainstream mental health services. Working with city leaders, we’ve addressed access barriers and developed inclusive care models.

A number of clients who have been forcibly displaced experience higher rates of suicidal ideation, however they have also shown significant recovery and report renewed purpose, agency and wellbeing. The strong uptake reflects both urgent need and growing trust in NCS.

Clients who initially presented with high suicide risk have shown significant recovery, reporting renewed purpose, agency, and wellbeing. The strong uptake reflects both urgent need and growing trust in NCS.

Strategic Advocacy

Our CEO continues to represent NCS across regional and national platforms, advocating for smaller Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations, mental health services and for minority groups. These efforts, though beyond core duties, have elevated NCS’s profile as a trusted and impactful provider of mental health services.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Above: Campaigns - YP mental health with Citizens and Switch up

Key Partnerships and Networks

Nottingham Counselling Services (NCS) is proud to collaborate with a wide range of partners across sectors, strengthening our impact and extending access to mental health support.

Corporate Support

We gratefully acknowledge the generous in-kind contributions from John Lewis, Ian Williamson Decorators, MTVH, Staffline, Shoosmiths, and Pitchin. Their support-ranging from furniture and equipment to fundraisinghas enhanced our therapeutic environment, which in turn boosted morale, and supported our income generation ambition.

NCS Strategic and Clinical Networks

Community and Voluntary Sector Partnerships

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

NCS plays an active role in shaping city-wide mental health strategy through:

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Above: Corporate support partners
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Above: Strategic partnerships and activities

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Summary of Significant Activities and Achievements Over the Past Twelve Months

Funding & Income

The primary focus over the past year was on ensuring the organisation’s financial survival and resilience. Despite ongoing challenges, NCS has excelled and delivered results under extraordinary circumstances. Our financial performance reflects both the efforts made to recover and the robust measures we’ve implemented to secure the charity’s future. With strengthened financial controls in place, we have successfully navigated turbulent times, demonstrating both the longevity and resilience of the organisation. These achievements mark a significant step forward in our mission, ensuring that we remain well-positioned for continued impact and sustainability.

Financial review

During the financial year, Nottingham Counselling Services generated a total income of £335,354 an improvement on last year’s £319,790, still presenting a small fall against the projected budget of £392,000. While some income streams exceeded expectations, others fell below forecast due to external challenges and organisational transitions.

Income Breakdown of a few core areas:

Counselling Services

Income: £145,200 (below expectations an improvement on the previous year of £139,938) Counselling remained the strongest performing area, consistently meeting or exceeding monthly targets.

Room Hire

Income: £45,145 (above expectations)

This additional income contributed positively to overall performance.

Assessments

Income: £6,776 (slightly below budget of £7,900) Monthly income varied and remained consistently under target.

Contracts

Income: £36,370 (above budget) Performance fluctuated throughout the year, resulting in a significant increase.

Grants

Income: Below budget

The shortfall was largely due to local funding challenges and a period of organisational instability following leadership changes and the loss of Leslie MacDonald, who was our long standing CEO.

Donations

Income: £9,295 Includes general donations, fundraising events, and Amazon Smile. All contributions provided a welcome boost to income.

While overall income fell slightly short of projections, strong performance in counselling and room hire helped offset underperformance in grants and contracts. The financial year reflects both resilience and adaptability during a period of transition, laying the groundwork for future stability, particularly with the newly secured fiveyear National Lottery funding.

Policy on reserves

The targeted reserves is 3-6 months of operating cost. How much would 3-6 months be? The targeted reserves is 3-6 months of operating cost which equates to between £83,286 (3 months) and £166,572 (6 months). We are in a position that we do hold these funds and whilst the majority of our reserves are restricted funds, we have almost doubled our unrestricted reserves from £18,574 (2024) to £36,764 (2025), which we intend to build on further to give us greater room to absorb financial shocks in the future.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Principal risks and uncertainties

The Trustees have continued to actively review and monitor the risks faced by the charity. The CEO is responsible for maintaining and updating the organisation’s Risk Register and monitors cash flow on a routine basis. Financial statements, including the Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Statement, are produced quarterly and presented to the Board for review. During this period, NCS has made significant improvements in its governance and financial management. Last year, the primary financial risk related to covering the costs of two Chief Executive salaries over a six-month period and associated interim Executive costs. This year, these challenges have been successfully addressed, and the organisation has secured a five-year funding settlement from the National Lottery, providing stability and enabling long-term planning.

Alongside financial improvements, governance has strengthened through the renewal of Trustees, the introduction of a skills audit, and enhancing strategic oversight and Board effectiveness. These developments ensure that NCS continues to deliver high-quality services to Nottingham’s diverse communities while pursuing sustainable income streams and aligning funding with the organisation’s long-term ambitions.

Small companies provision statement

This report has been prepared in accordance with the small companies regime under the Companies Act 2006.

Above: Social media

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Statement of Responsibilities

The trustees (who are also the directors of Nottingham Counselling Service for the purpose of company law) are responsible for preparing the trustees’ report and the financial statements in accordance with the applicabe law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland”. The report and accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions in the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Company law requires the trustees to repare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are statisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

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

The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company’s website. Legislation governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legistlation in other jurisdictions.

The annual report was approved by the trustees of the charity on 23 / 12 / 2025 and signed on its behalf by:

Stephen Goode Trustee

Above: Staff, trainees and volunteers

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Independent Examiner’s Report

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Nottingham Counselling Service (‘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 the Company’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA), 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 that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. 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

  4. 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.

Eva Stevens, BSc, CPFA, employee of Community Accounting Plus member of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)

Units 1 & 2 North West

41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG! 5GL

Date: 24 / 12 / 2025

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

(Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)

Note Unrestricted
funds
£
41,822
27,132
354
308,222
(290,032)
(290,032)
18,190
18,190
18,574
36,764		 Restricted
funds
£
293,178
27,132
(43,112)
(43,112)
(15,980)
(15,980)
332,989
317,009		 Total 2025
£
41,822
268,890
354
335,354
(333,144)
(333,144)
2,210
2,210
351,563
353,773		 Total 2024
£
50,548
266,046
352
319,790
(356,033)
(356,033)
(36,243)
(36,243)
387,806
351,563
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
3
Investment income
5
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
6
Total expenditure
Net income/(expenditure)
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
13

All of the charity’s activities derive from continuing operations during the above two periods. The funds breakdown for the period is shown in note 13.

The notes on pages 20 to 29 form an integral part of these financial statements.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

(Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)

Note Unrestricted
funds
£
50,548
215,782
352
266,682
(332,550)
(332,550)
(65,868)
(65,868)
84,442
18,574
 Restricted
funds
£
53,108
53,108
(23,483)
(23,483)
29,625
29,625
303,364
332,989
 Total 2024
£
50,548
268,890
352
319,790
(356,033)
(356,033)
(36,243)
(36,243)
387,806
351,563
Income and Endowments from:
Donations and legacies
2
Charitable activities
3
Investment income
5
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
6
Total expenditure
Net income/(expenditure)
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
13

The notes on pages 20 to 29 form an integral part of these financial statements.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2025

2025 2025 2024 2024
Note £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible assets 8 614,505 50,617,423
Current assets 53,108 268,890
Debtors 9 11,466 13,332
Cash at bank and in hand 10 38,838 44,352
50,304 57,684
Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 11 (36,636) (42,777)
Net current assets 13,668 .14,907
Total assets less current liabilities 628,173 632,330
Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year 12 (274,400) (280,767)
Net assets 353,773 351,563
Funds of the charity:
Restricted income funds
Restricted funds 13 317,009 332,989
Unrestricted income funds
Unrestricted funds 36,764 18,574
Total funds 13 353,773 351,563

For the financial year ending 31 March 2025 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Directors’ responsibilities:

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to companies subject to the small companies regime within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements on pages 17 to 29 were approved by the trustees, and authorised for issue on 20 / 12 / 2025 their behalf by:

Dari Gfeller Trustee

The notes on pages 20 to 29 form an integral part of these financial statements.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

1. Accounting policies

Summary of significant accounting policies and key accounting estimates

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

Statement of compliance

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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)) (issued in October 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS I 02)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS I 02) and the Companies Act 2006.

Basis of preparation

Nottingham Counselling Service meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes.

Going concern

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.

The trustees assess whether the use of going concern is appropriate i.e. whether there are any material uncertainties related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern. The trustees make this assessment in respect of a period of one year from the date of approval of the financial statements.

Exemption from preparing a cash flow statement

Under the exemption available to smaller charities the Board of Trustees has chosen not to include a Statement of Cash Flows within the financial statements.

Income and endowments

Voluntary income including donations, gifts, legacies and grants that provide core funding or are of a general nature is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Donations and legacies

Donations are recognised when the charity has been notified in writing of both the amount and settlement date. In the event that a donation is subject to conditions that require a level of performance by the charity before the charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that these conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period.

Grants receivable

Grants are recognised when the charity has an entitlement to the funds and any conditions linked to the grants have been met. Where performance conditions are attached to the grant and are yet to be met, the income is recognised as a liability and included on the balance sheet as deferred income to be released.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Expenditure

All expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to that expenditure, it is probable settlement is required and the amount can be measured reliably. All costs are allocated to the applicable expenditure heading that aggregate similar costs to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of resources, with central staff costs allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use. Other support costs are allocated based on the spread of staff costs.

Charitable activities

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.

Government grants

Government grants are recognised based on the accrual model and are measured at the fair value of the asset received or receivable. Grants are classified as relating either to revenue or to assets. Grants relating to revenue are recognised in income over the period in which the related costs are recognised. Grants relating to assets are recognised over the expected useful life of the asset. Where part of a grant relating to an asset is deferred, it is recognised as deferred income.

Taxation

The charity is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes.

Tangible fixed assets

Individual fixed assets costing £500 or more are initially recorded at cost, less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent accumulated impairment losses.

Depreciation and amortisation

Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost or valuation, less any estimated residual value, over their expected useful economic life as follows:

Asset class Depreciation method and rate
Land and buildings in accordance with the lease length (effective 0.1%
Furniture and equipment Computer equipment straight line)
25% reducing balance
25% reducing balance

Trade debtors

Trade debtors are amounts due from customers for merchandise sold or services performed in the ordinary course of business.

Trade debtors are recognised initially at the transaction price. They are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for the impairment of trade debtors is established when there is objective evidence that the charity will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Trade creditors

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if the charity does not have an unconditional right, at the end of the reporting period, to defer settlement of the creditor for at least twelve months after the reporting date. If there is an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least twelve months after the reporting date, they are presented as non-current liabilities.

Trade creditors are recognised initially at the transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Fund structure

Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees’ discretion in furtherance of the objectives of the charity.

Restricted income funds are those grants for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose.

2. Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted
funds
General
£		 Total 2025
£		 Total 2024
£
4,860
352
30,688
15,000
50,548
Donations and legacies:
Donations from companies, trusts and similar proceeds
Donations from individuals
Grants, including capital grants:
Government grants
Grants from other charities		 7,875
1,420
352
32,527
41,822		 7,875
1,420
32,527
41,822		 4,860
352
30,688
15,000
50,548

3. Income from charitable activities

Total 2024
£
6,013
21,765
139,938
25,536
21,839
691
53,108
268,890
Unrestricted
funds
General
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total 2025
£		 Total 2024
£
Assessments
Contracts
Counselling
Room hire
Training
Sundry
Grants & donations		 6,776
36,370
145,200
45,145
30,105
2,450
18,574		 27,132
332,989		 6,776
36,370
145,200
45,145
30,105
2,450
27,132
293,178		 6,013
21,765
139,938
25,536
21,839
691
53,108
268,890

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

4. Grants & donations

4. Grants & donations
Unrestricted
funds
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total
£
20,000
2,632
2,500
2,000
17,466
14,061
7,875
1,000
1,420
68,954
BACP
Tuntum Housing Association
Thomas Farr
J N Derbyshire
HMRC Gift Aid
Notts County Council
Shoosmiths
Nottingham City Council Public Health
Sundry grants & donations		 17,466
14,061
7,875
1,000
1,420
41,822		 20,000
2,632
2,500
2,000
27,132

5. Investment income

Total 2024
£
352
Unrestricted
funds
General
£		 Total 2024
£		 Total 2024
£
Interest receivable and similar income:
Interest receivable on bank deposits		 354 354 352

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

6. Expenditure on charitable activities

Total 2024
£
1,360
290
5,129
10,710
58,535
120
12,605
1,116
3,439
8,987
11,640
25,450
13,355
135,104
102
1,759
2,598
994
1,363
4,283
44,974
7,630
805
3,685
356,033
Unrestricted
funds
General
£		 Restricted
funds
£		 Total 2025
£		 Total 2024
£
Advertising and Promotion
Assessment expenses
Bank Charges
Cleaning
Computer Software
Consultancy
Event Expenses
Heat, Light & Other Utilities
Hospitality & Catering
Insurance
Internet, Website & Software
Legal & professional
Loan Interest
Non Staff Counselling
Wages, NI & pensions
Postage
Rates & Water
Repairs, Renewals & Maintenance
Room hire
Service charge
Stationery & Printing
Subscriptions
Sundry Expenses
Supervision Fees
Telephone
Training Expenses
Depreciation		 733
1,245
5,572
5,065
5,215
981
12,235
854
4,934
2,705
10,980
25,009
16,913
131,683
47
2,920
5,106
1,150
4,943
1,061
1,163
281
38,645
7,134
540
2,918
290,032		 130
360
623
250
1,750
38,454
300
745
500
43,112		 733
130
1,605
5,572
5,065
5,215
981
12,858
1,104
4,934
2,705
10,980
25,009
18,663
170,137
47
2,920
5,106
1,450
4,943
1,061
1,163
281
39,390
7,134
1,040
2,918
333,144		 1,360
290
5,129
10,710
58,535
120
12,605
1,116
3,439
8,987
11,640
25,450
13,355
135,104
102
1,759
2,598
994
1,363
4,283
44,974
7,630
805
3,685
356,033

7. Staff costs

The aggregate payroll costs were as follows:

7. Staff costs
The aggregate payroll costs were as follows:
2024
£		 2024
£
124,966
7,420
2,718
135,104
Staff costs during the year were:
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Pension costs
Pension costs		 158,517
8,288
3,332
170,137

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

The monthly average number of persons (including senior management team) employed by the charity during the year was as follows:

Average number of employees 2024
No.
7		 2024
No.
6

6 (2024 - 7) of the above employees participated in the Defined Contribution Pension Schemes. Contributions to the employee pension schemes for the year totalled £3,332 (2024 - £2,7I 8).

The number of employees whose emoluments fell within the following bands was:

£60,001 - £70,000

2024
No.		 2024
No.

The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £62,656 (2024 - £38,881). The chief executive officer, as the highest paid member of staff, received benefits totalling £62,656 (2024 - £27,570).

8. Tangible fixed assets

Total
£
747,665
747,665
130,242
2,918
133,160
614,505
617,423
Land and
buildings
£		 Furniture and
equipment
£		 Computer
equipment
£		 Total
£
Cost
At 1 April 2024
At 31 March 2025
Depreciation
At 1 April 2024
Charge for the year
At 31 March 2025
Net book value
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2025		 616,194
616,194
7,978
616
8,594
607,600
608,216		 88,517
88,517
84,269
1,062
85,331
3,186
4,248		 42,954
42,954
37,995
1,240
39,235
3,719
4,959		 747,665
747,665
130,242
2,918
133,160
614,505
617,423

9. Debtors

2024
£
12,577
628
127
13,332
2025
£		 2024
£
Trade debtors
Prepayments
Other debtors		 7,114
4,225
127
11,466		 12,577
628
127
13,332

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

10. Cash and cash equivalents

2024
£
62
44,290
44,352
2025
£		 2024
£
Cash on hand
Cash at bank		 62
38,776
38,838		 62
44,290
44,352

11. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

2024
£
8,086
22,811
5,296
629
5,955
42,777
2025
£		 2024
£
Bank loans
Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals		 8,086
19,563
3,223
1,424
4,340
36,636		 8,086
22,811
5,296
629
5,955
42,777

12. Creditors: amounts falling due after one year

2024
£
280,767
2025
£		 2024
£
Bank loans 274,400 280,767

13. Funds
Balance at 1
April 2024
£		 Incoming
resources
£		 Resources
expended
£		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
Unrestricted funds
General
General
Restricted funds
Social Investment Fund
Art Therapy
Asylum & Refugee Trauma NCC
The National Lottery Community Fund
Tuntum Housing Comic Relief
BACP
Total restricted funds
Total funds		 18,574
303,009
10,000
19,980
332,989
351,563		 308,222
4,500
2,632
20,000
27,132
335,354		 (290,032)
(4,500)
(10,000)
(19,980)
(2,632)
(6,000)
(43,112)
(333,144)		 36,764
303,009
14,000
317,009
353,773

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

Balance at 1
April 2023
£		 Incoming
resources
£		 Resources
expended
£		 Transfers
£		 Balance at 31
March
2024
£
Unrestricted funds
General
General
Designated
Furniture
Total unrestricted funds
Restricted
Social Investment Fund
Asylum & Refugee Trauma NCC
The National Lottery Community Fund
Tuntum Housing Comic Relief
Foundation Capital
NHS Charities Trust
Severn Trent Water
Total restricted funds
Total funds
 82,003
2,439
84,442
303,316
48
303,364
387,806
 266,682
266,682
10,000
19,980
9,580
9,580
3,022
53,108
319,790
 (332,550)
(332,550)
(307)
(3,022)
(48)
(9,580)
(3,022)
(23,483)
(356,033)
 2,439
(2,439)		 18,574
18,574
303,009
10,000
19,980
332,989
351,563
Th if f hih h f d b lid f l

The specific purposes for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:

14. Analysis of net assets between funds
Unrestricted
General
£		 Restricted
£		 2025
Total funds
£
Tangible fxed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Creditors over 1 year
Total net assets
Tangible fxed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Creditors over 1 year
Total net assets		 6,905
38,846
(8,987)
36,764
Unrestricted
General
£
9,207
21,247
(11,880)
18,574		 607,600
11,458
(27,649)
(274,400)
317,009
Restricted
£
608,216
36,437
(30,897)
(280,767)
332,989		 614,505
50,304
(36,636)
(274,400)
353,773
2024
Total funds
£
617,423
57,684
(42,777)
(280,767)
351,563

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

15. Fees payable to independent examiner

During the period, the fees payable (excluding VAT) to the charity’s independent examiner Community Accounting Plus are analysed as follows:

Accounting Plus are analysed as follows:
2025
£		 2024
£
Independent examination
Other fnancial services		 1,250
6,540
7,790		 1,100
7,624
8,724

16. Taxation

The charity is a registered charity and is therefore exempt from corporation taxation.

17. Trustees remuneration and expenses

No trustees, nor any persons connected with them, have received any remuneration from the charity during the year.

No trustees have received any reimbursed expenses or any other benefits from the charity during the year.

18. Related party transactions

There were no related party transactions in the year.

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025

(A company limited by guarantee) Company registration number: 02948386 Charity registration number: 1045464

Unit 5, Victoria Court, Kent Street, Nottingham, NG1 3LZ, UK

+44115 950 1743 www.nottinghamcounsellingcentre.org.uk

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Nottingham Counselling Service Annual Report and Financial Statements 2025