Midlands Women’s Aid
Est. FEBRUARY 1974
Annual Report & Statistics
2023-2024
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LIVERING SERVICES 40 o-.9 YEARS Midlands Women’s Aid
Annual Report & Statistics 2023/2024
Contents
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF MIDLANDS WOMEN’SAID………………………4 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................5 REFUGE TEAM LEADER’S REPORT....................................................................6/9 CASE STUDIES…………………………………………………………………………10/11 /CHILD REFUGE SERVICE 12/13/14 EQUAL OPPORTUNITES POLICY..........................................................................15 STATISTICAL DATA FOR THE YEAR...................................................................16 TREASURERS REPORT............................................................................................18
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Midlands Women's Aid. P.O. Box 8, Beeston, Nottingham. NG9 1HL Telephone No: 0300 302 0035
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A BIG THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS. We could not do it without you.
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All at
Artex Ltd.
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Angela Westerman and all at WestermanBeeston Inner Wheel
Tesco Long Eaton Chilwell ASDA, Euphoria, Sainsbury’s, Toton Beeston Consolidated Charities TT Beeston Parish Church deag St Andrews with Castle Gate United Reform Church, Nottingham Operation Orphan
Thank you to all of our supporters who wish to remain anonymous. Their continued and sustained support of our Refuge is invaluable.
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AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF MIDLANDS WOMEN’S AID
The aims and objectives of this organisation were established to assist women and children who were in necessitous circumstances and in particular those women and children who had suffered from violence and maltreatment in their own homes.
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To provide refuge where such women and their children could enjoy temporary rest and protection from attack or persecution.
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To assist in providing education, housing, legal and medical advice, financial support for themselves and their children.
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To provide ongoing support to a woman who has been rehoused as, and if, necessary.
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To support where possible women who preferred not to seek refuge.
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to our Annual report for the year 2023-2024.
Our Refuge services continue to experience high demand as we receive more referrals for our safe accommodation than we can accommodate. The safe accommodation has been fully utilized all year.
The lack of suitable housing and the national shortage of such accommodation means that our client group are experiencing difficulties accessing permanent homes. We find that in many cases this has a detrimental affect on their mental health and well-being. Despite the challenges we face our dedicated staff team continue to work hard deliver the vital support women and children experiencing Domestic Abuse need.
I wish to thank the Trustees, staff, volunteers and friends of Midlands Women’s Aid for their hard work and support in tackling Domestic Abuse. Also, we would extend our thanks to all the groups and individuals who have supported Midlands Women’s Aid during the year by donating money, clothing and other generous gifts. We have listed some of them by name on a separate page, however we would extend a special thanks to all our supporters whose names we do not know who have contributed to our fundraising activities throughout the year. They do not know how much their contribution are appreciated by the staff and clients.
Finally, I would like to recognise our clients who take the decision to leave all they know to protect their children from Domestic Abuse. Who with our support learn that they are not alone, and it is not their fault.
Catherine Saunders (CEO)
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REFUGE TEAM LEADER’S REPORT
Although our work can be demanding and challenging, it is also very rewarding. To travel with our client group on their journey from experiencing Domestic Abuse and living in fear, to going forward to survive and thrive is edifying.
The demand for our safe accommodation has remained high and our safe accommodation has been fully utilized.
It is unfortunate that due to the national housing shortage women are staying in our accommodation for longer periods of time. Delays in being re-housed when clients are ready to move on can cause other challenges and frustration for them. Also, it adds further strains on our support service. Housing authorities and agencies are quoting re-housing waiting times of two years and in some cases five years. It is not acceptable for our clients to remain in our accommodation for this length of time and we are active in seeking solutions to this problem.
Support Service
We provide support using an individual support plan tailored to each person. The plan helps identify the support required and allows us to work with the client to build confidence, increase self-esteem, help them come to terms with the abuse they have experienced and work with them to help them reach their full potential. Clients are encouraged to take part in workshops and sessions around healthy relationships, safety planning and are empowered to organize and fully take part in making decisions which effect their lives
Safe Accommodation
We aim to provide safe, clean and welcoming accommodation. (See photographs)
Refuge;
7 family bedrooms each with en-suite facilities,
Communal areas;
2 kitchens, 2 lounges laundry room playroom. outside play area
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Communal lounge;
A bedroom. On arrival we provide a welcome pack consisting of basic essentials:
One of the communal kitchens :
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Also, we provide 3 self-contained units, located close by the main building and allow for families with older boys, families with complex or special needs and pets
A self-contained Unit :
.
Case Studies :
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Here are some case histories of the families we have supported this year. We hope this highlights the needs, the difficulties they face and shows the recovery process they go through.
1.
S was admitted into refuge fleeing Domestic Abuse from her expartner and the father of her children. The referral was made by social care. The abuse was physical, emotional and cohesive control.
She was understandably very emotional. It is not the easiest decision to leave everything that is familiar to you. Importantly, S felt safe and with our support soon settled in.
S came to us on a child protection plan due to the domestic abuse and concerns with her drug and alcohol issues. She engaged well with staff. Also, her key worker who went through an individual support plan tailored to her which helps identify her needs.
S took part in many programmes and activities offered including the survivors programme to give her understanding of the domestic abuse, 123 Magic and Kidz Matter,which teaches her how to positively parent and come up with boundaries and routines. She gave very positive feedback on all the programmes she attended
Throughout her stay S engaged with our support, the support from our health visitor and social worker. Social care has now ended the child protection plan and are no longer involved due to S being clean from drugs and alcohol and no safeguarding concerns.
S is close to being offered permanent accommodation with the local borough council and states she feels ready to move on to the next chapter in her life and is excited for her and her children’s future.
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2.
Child M is an eight year old female. She was admitted due to the family fleeing domestic abuse from her partner and her own mother. M displayed some challenging behaviour which her mother had difficulty addressing. She would not listen and would get worked up over little things for example getting her hair brushed and slamming doors.
It was identified that M had witnessed abuse towards her mother. M quickly settled in and engaged well with the Child worker. She took part in therapeutic play sessions and One-to-one sessions which helped M explore and become used to her environment. These sessions are to support the child to build up trust with staff, to encourage her to talk about her needs and experiences. Her support worker delivered the Helping Hands course with her on a one-to-one basis. Working in partnership with her school she accessed one to one support sessions in school.
She was referred to counselling service which she attended once a week.
After the ongoing support from all professionals, M is now happy, and settled and her behaviour has improved. M is looking forward to moving into a permanent home with her mother and siblings.
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Children Refuge Service
As a Children and Young Peoples Domestic Abuse worker it is my responsibility to work with children to overcome the trauma of witnessing or experiencing Domestic Abuse.
Almost two third of the residents in refuges are children, the majority of whom are of pre-school age. I provide stimulating play opportunities to encourage children from all backgrounds to develop and express themselves, as well as support children with homework and literacy. We also refer children to wider support services, including counsellors and children’s centres
When a child or young person arrives, they are often left traumatized and often have to leave everything behind such as family, friends, school and toys. My initial task is to help settle them into Refuge.
The trips we have attended are:
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Ice skating
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Cinema
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Horse riding
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Fair
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Beach
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Farm
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Rock climbing
Our sessions might include:
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One to one session’s
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Group sessions
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Family Intervention
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Behaviour Management
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Helping Hands Facilitation Programme
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Healthy Relationships
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Therapeutic play
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See images below of our playroom ?1 AB C T¥EF6111:IMI Y4 14
With thanks to Artex we have had our outdoor play area refurbed. This enables the women and children to relax and play outside. The children’s worker also runs play sessions in the garden when it is good weather.
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITES POLICY.
Declaration of Intent
Midlands Women's Aid provides temporary accommodation, support and advocacy to women and children experiencing violence and supports their long-3term future needs. This means challenging the abuse of women and children.
Midlands Women's Aid is committed to the principles of equal opportunities. Midlands Women's Aid is working towards the elimination of all types of violence against women. We are also working towards the elimination of all forms of sexism and racism.
We will ensure that we endeavour to combat direct or indirect discrimination in our employment practices and in our management and provision of services and will work to achieve these ends.
We intend that equal opportunities become a reality in practice and not simply a paper commitment. We will seek to implement a programme of positive action to make this policy fully effective by ensuring that no Midlands Women's Aid Trustee, job applicant, employee, volunteer, service user or agencies and other women’s aid groups that we work with receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of race, colour, class, nationality, ethnic or national origins, cultural origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, union activity or responsibility for children or place of residence.
Guidelines for Carrying out the Declaration of Intent
The responsibility for implementing the Declaration of Intent lies with the whole of Midlands Women's Aid although the Trustees will be expected to carry the employers responsibility.
The Declaration of Intent will be posted publicly in the Midlands Women's Aid office and will also be made known to all members of the organisation, employees, volunteers and service users. Acceptance of the policy is a condition of membership of Midlands Women's Aid. The purpose of the Equal Opportunities policy is to set out clearly and comprehensively the steps Midlands Women's Aid intend to take to ensure equality of opportunity and combat direct and indirect discrimination in employment practice, management structures and practice, in service provision to individuals and groups and agencies and in its relationship with other groups.
Customer Care Policy
We aim to give our service users the highest quality of help and assistance to ensure they receive equal treatment taking into account their cultural and individual needs. In the event that they
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are unhappy with the service or the facilities provided there is a complaints procedure in place. Each service user will receive a handbook outlining services and policies, which includes the Complaints Procedure.
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STATISTICAL DATA FOR THE YEAR
The following statistics were collected by Midlands Women’s Aid for the year ending March 2024:
TOTAL NUMBER OF BEDSPACES: 53 FAMILY ROOMS: 7 Three Satellite Properties – 2 bed house, 1 bed flat and 1 bed flat Women admitted into Refuge: 16 Children admitted into Refuge: 37 Women refused because Refuge was full: 92 Number of advice calls: 1010 Referrals from agencies: 30 Self referrals: 62 Women housed 26
SUMMARY OF QUESTIONNAIRE FINDINGS
This year we have again seen an increase in single women referrals and women with mental health issues, drug and alcohol abuse.
On admission to the Refuge;
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8 women had no physical injuries although had had injuries in the past
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8 women had injuries on admission ranging from facial cuts to black eyes
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14 women described bruising to all parts of their bodies
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10 women reported attempts to strangle
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9 women reported rape and sexual abuse
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12 women reported coercive control
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12 women reported financial control
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When asked about past injuries, women described them as follows: strangulation, body bruising, bruised eyes, rape, threats with knives, pushing and pulling, coercive control, financial and emotional abuse.
When asked what they believed had caused the violence the response is always the same. Women described the following: “He’s jealous” “He says it’s my fault”, “He says he has a right”. “He thinks he owns me and the kids” Others blamed drugs and alcohol, jealousy, mental health, insecurity and ‘his upbringing’.
Of the women admitted, 3 had had healthy previous relationships. All had experienced violence and controlling behaviour from their ex-partners.
Most women described their childhood as happy. Other women described domestic violence between their parents, violence to themselves.
When asked if there were any circumstances under which they would accept being hit by a man, all women said no.
TRUSTEE AND STAFF NAMES
Trustees of Midlands Women's Aid
Mrs K. Cains Ms S. Shaw Ms H. Venn
Staf of Midlands Women's Aid
Cathy Saunders CEO Milli Collins Refuge Services Manager K.F Complex needs Support Worker S.C. Support worker/Admin A.M Support Worker M.K Child Support Worker H.B Playworker
Auditor
CAPlus Nottingham..
Legal Status
Company Limited By Guarantee. Company Number 3122842
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Registered Charity. Charity registration Number 1055578
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TREASURERS REPORT
Our core income comes from rent income and funding from Nottinghamshire County Council (NCC). As our service is in great demand we little voids.
The current NCC funding ends 31[st] March 2026. We have a healthy reserve and are financially secure for a few years
Beeston Consolidated Charity, a long-time supporter, continue to provide for their annual grant which provides for a full-time support worker and a part time Children’s Worker post.
Another regular funder is Artex, a local firm and we continue to raise monies by way of our fund raising activities.
Salaries remain our major expenditure. Apart from the day to day maintenance and furniture replacement we have no plans for any major expenses this year.
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Midlands Women’s Aid a Company Limited By Guarantee. Company No. 3122842 Charity Reg. No. 1055578 Registered in England &
P.O. Box 8 Beeston Nottingham NG9 1HL
Tel: 0300 302 0035 E-mail: support@mwa.org.uk www.midlandswomensaid.org.uk
Search: Midlands Women’s Aid or Go to https://www.facebook.com/Midland s-womens-aid-331713663608574/ Ee
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Company registration number: 03122842 Charity registration number: 1055578
Midlands Women's Aid
(A company limited by guarantee)
Annual Report and Financial Statements
for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
Community Accounting Plus Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Midlands Women's Aid
Contents
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
|---|---|
| Trustees' Report | 2 to 4 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 5 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 6 to 7 |
| Balance Sheet | 8 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 9 to 17 |
Midlands Women's Aid
Reference and Administrative Details
Trustees Kathleen C Cains, Treasurer / Chair Susan Shaw Holly Venn Senior Management Team Catherine Saunders, Chief Executive Charity Registration Number 1055578 Company Registration Number 03122842 Registered Office Charlotte House Stanier Way The Wyvern Business Park Derby DE21 6BF Independent Examiner John O'Brien, employee of Community Accounting Plus Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Page 1
Midlands Women's Aid
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 2024.
Trustees
Kathleen Cains, Treasurer / Chair Susan Shaw Holly Venn
Structure, governance and management
Nature of governing document
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and registered charity. It is operated under the rules of its memorandum and articles of association dated 7 November 1995 and most recently amended 3 April 1996. It has no share capital and the liability of each member in the event of winding-up is limited to £1.
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
Advertised for via Website, selected process, interviewed by Trustees and appointed on receipt of favourable references.
Induction and training of trustees
Trustees should avoid recommending people who are close colleagues, friends or relatives as this may affect the balance and objectivity of the committee as a whole.
New trustees are appointed on receipt of favourable references from two referees, they attend two committee meetings prior to joining the committee. This will apply to a co-optee or a member.
New trustees undergo an induction period to brief them on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the committee and decision making process, the business plan and recent financial performance of the charity. During this period they meet key employees and other trustees.
They receive a copy of the Standing Orders and Delegated Authorities and information relating to a description of the service e.g. leaflets, annual reports.
Organisational structure
The board of trustees administers the charity. The board meets quarterly. A CEO is employed to manage the day to day operations together with a staff team. To facilitate effective operations the CEO has delegated authority, within terms of delegation approved by the trustees, for operational matters including finance, employment and minor purchases.
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Midlands Women's Aid
Trustees' Report
Objectives and activities
Objects and aims
The aims and objectives of this organisation are to assist women and children in necessitous circumstances and in particular those women and children who had suffered from violence and maltreatment in their own homes.
• To provide refuge where such women and their children could enjoy temporary rest and protection from attack or persecution;
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To assist in providing education, housing, legal and medical advice, financial support for themselves and their children;
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To provide ongoing support to women who have been re-housed as, and if, necessary;
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To support where possible women who preferred not to seek refuge.
Objectives, strategies and activities
We provide Refuge accommodation, support for women and children, outreach and move on and resettlement services, awareness raising and training.
Public benefit
The work of the charity provides public benefit by providing refuge accommodation by providing Refuge accommodation we keep women and children safe from further abuse. By providing healthy relationship course we equip women and children with the necessary skills and tools to assist them to go forward and live their lives free from abuse and help them realise their full potential. Reduce crime, reduce mental health problems, reduce need to seek medical services and reduce Social Services involvement.
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
We have supported 85 survivors of Domestic Abuse. 53 of them have been re-housed away from abuse. 32 of them are currently housed in our safe accommodation.
Feedback shows that 99% of our survivors felt safer, 99% had increased self esteem, 95% had improved mental health.
Referrals are accepted from all parts of the Country. Each client is supported by a key worker using individually tailored support plans to identify their needs, signposting to other agencies, ie drug/alcohol, mental health. We provide advocacy for women and children. We work with our client on safety planning, healthy relationships and wellbeing courses.
Financial review
Due to several years of sustainable funding we are financially secure.
Policy on reserves
It is our policy to keep a reserve of six months income.
Principal risks and uncertainties
Funding uncertainty
Failure to secure funding from April 2026 could risk our services going forward from that date.
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Midlands Women's Aid
Trustees' Report
Statement of Responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors of Midlands Women's Aid for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), 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 prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied 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:
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select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
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observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
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make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
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state whether applicable accounting standards, comprising FRS 102 have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
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prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.
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 comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable 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 legislation in other jurisdictions.
Small companies provision statement
This report has been prepared in accordance with the small companies regime under the Companies Act 2006.
The annual report was approved by the trustees of the charity on 12 December 2024 and signed on its behalf by:
......................................... Kathleen C Cains Trustee
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Midlands Women's Aid
Independent Examiner's Report to the trustees of Midlands Women's Aid ('the Company')
Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Midlands Women's Aid ('the Company')
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 March 2024.
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 and Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners, 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:
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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.
...................................... John O'Brien MSc, FAIA, FCCA, FCIE, employee of Community Accounting Plus Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners
Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Date:.............................
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Midlands Women's Aid
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)
| Note Income and Endowments from: Donations and legacies 2 Charitable activities 3 Investment income 5 Total Income Expenditure on: Charitable activities 6 Total Expenditure Net (expenditure)/income Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 13 |
Unrestricted £ 3,945 143,887 248 148,080 (159,461) (159,461) (11,381) (11,381) 205,315 193,934 |
Restricted £ - 232,018 - 232,018 (222,190) (222,190) 9,828 9,828 220,921 230,749 |
Total 2024 £ 3,945 375,905 248 380,098 (381,651) (381,651) (1,553) (1,553) 426,236 424,683 |
Total 2023 £ 4,125 376,864 96 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 381,085 | ||||
| (308,798) | ||||
| (308,798) | ||||
| 72,287 | ||||
| 72,287 353,949 |
||||
| 426,236 |
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 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 6
Midlands Women's Aid
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)
These are the figures for the previous accounting period and are included for comparative purposes
| Note 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 Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 13 |
Unrestricted funds £ 4,125 145,614 96 149,835 (133,882) (133,882) 15,953 15,953 189,362 205,315 |
Restricted funds £ - 231,250 - 231,250 (174,916) (174,916) 56,334 56,334 164,587 220,921 |
Total 2023 £ 4,125 376,864 96 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 381,085 | |||
| (308,798) | |||
| (308,798) | |||
| 72,287 | |||
| 72,287 353,949 |
|||
| 426,236 |
The notes on pages 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 7
Midlands Women's Aid
(Registration number: 03122842) Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2024
| Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 11 Current assets Debtors 8 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 9 Net current assets Net assets Funds of the charity: Restricted income funds Restricted funds 13 Unrestricted income funds Unrestricted funds Total funds 13 |
2024 £ 17,379 745 411,442 412,187 (4,883) 407,304 424,683 230,749 193,934 424,683 |
2023 £ 23,171 648 409,103 |
|---|---|---|
| 409,751 (6,686) |
||
| 403,065 | ||
| 426,236 | ||
| 220,921 205,315 |
||
| 426,236 |
For the financial year ending 31 March 2024 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors' responsibilities:
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The members have not required the charity to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476; and
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The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
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 6 to 17 were approved by the trustees, and authorised for issue on 12 December 2024 and signed on their behalf by:
.........................................
Kathleen C Cains Trustee
The notes on pages 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 8
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
Basis of preparation
Midlands Women's Aid 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.
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Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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.
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 £500.00 or more are initially recorded at cost.
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 |
|---|---|
| Leasehold improvements | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
| Furniture & equipment | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
| IT equipment | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
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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Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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.
Pensions and other post retirement obligations
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity. Pension costs charges in the Statement of Financial Activities represent the contributions payable by the charity during the year.
2 Income from donations and legacies
| Donations and legacies; Donations from companies, trusts and similar proceeds Donations from individuals |
Unrestricted funds General £ 2,000 1,945 3,945 |
Total 2024 £ 2,000 1,945 3,945 |
Total 2023 £ 500 3,625 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4,125 |
3 Income from charitable activities
| Grants and donations Housing benefit Resident rents Sundry income |
Unrestricted funds General £ - 135,385 8,498 4 143,887 |
Restricted funds £ 232,018 - - - 232,018 |
Total 2024 £ 232,018 135,385 8,498 4 375,905 |
Total 2023 £ 231,250 133,965 11,649 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 376,864 |
Page 11
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
4 Grants & donations
| 4 Grants & donations |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Beeston Consolidated Charity Sundry grants & donations Notts CC BPB UK 5 Investment income Interest receivable and similar income; Interest receivable on bank deposits |
Unrestricted funds £ - 1,945 - 2,000 3,945 Unrestricted funds General £ 248 |
Restricted funds £ 37,133 - 194,885 - 232,018 Total 2024 £ 248 |
Total £ 37,133 1,945 194,885 2,000 |
| 235,963 | |||
| Total 2023 £ 96 |
Interest receivable and similar income; Interest receivable on bank deposits
Page 12
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
6 Expenditure on charitable activities
| Activities & events Building, repairs & maintenance Cleaning Council tax Depreciation Dues & subscriptions Equipment Grant spend (resettlement) Insurance IT expenses Nacs Office expenses Printing & postage Professional fees Refreshments Salaries, NI & pensions Security Staff expenses Sundry expenses Telephone Training Utilities Travel & meetings |
Unrestricted funds General £ 2,888 7,114 2,008 2,478 5,792 2,139 20,805 - 5,898 1,580 14,003 292 1,892 59,482 77 - 651 722 589 1,260 1,884 26,513 1,394 159,461 |
Restricted funds £ - - - - - - 1,450 5,605 - 1,944 - - - - - 211,537 - - - - 1,654 - - 222,190 |
Total 2024 £ 2,888 7,114 2,008 2,478 5,792 2,139 22,255 5,605 5,898 3,524 14,003 292 1,892 59,482 77 211,537 651 722 589 1,260 3,538 26,513 1,394 381,651 |
Total 2023 £ 2,026 7,361 2,523 3,134 7,723 1,202 5,562 1,385 3,604 3,837 9,188 593 1,766 46,754 151 168,920 1,007 - 163 1,973 1,342 37,599 985 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 308,798 |
7 Net incoming/outgoing resources
Net (outgoing)/incoming resources for the year include:
Depreciation of fixed assets
| 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|
| £ | £ |
| 5,792 | 7,723 |
Page 13
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
8 Debtors
| Prepayments 9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Other taxation and social security Other creditors 10 Staff costs The aggregate payroll costs were as follows: Staff costs during the year were: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs |
2024 £ 745 2024 £ - 4,883 4,883 2024 £ 196,479 12,323 2,735 211,537 |
2023 £ 648 |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 £ 3,560 3,126 |
||
| 6,686 | ||
| 2023 £ 156,212 10,376 2,332 |
||
| 168,920 |
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 8 |
2023 No 6 |
|---|---|---|
5 (2023 - 5) of the above employees participated in the Defined Contribution Pension Schemes.
Contributions to the employee pension schemes for the year totalled £2,735 (2023 - £2,332).
No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000 during the year.
The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £59,699 (2023 - £57,518).
Page 14
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
11 Tangible fixed assets
| Leasehold improvements £ Furniture and equipment £ Cost At 1 April 2023 13,800 62,314 At 31 March 2024 13,800 62,314 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 11,599 50,928 Charge for the year 550 2,846 At 31 March 2024 12,149 53,774 Net book value At 31 March 2024 1,651 8,540 At 31 March 2023 2,201 11,386 12 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 17,379 Current assets 181,438 Current liabilities (4,883) Total net assets 193,934 Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 23,171 Current assets 185,042 Current liabilities (2,898) Total net assets 205,315 |
Leasehold improvements £ Furniture and equipment £ Cost At 1 April 2023 13,800 62,314 At 31 March 2024 13,800 62,314 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 11,599 50,928 Charge for the year 550 2,846 At 31 March 2024 12,149 53,774 Net book value At 31 March 2024 1,651 8,540 At 31 March 2023 2,201 11,386 12 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 17,379 Current assets 181,438 Current liabilities (4,883) Total net assets 193,934 Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 23,171 Current assets 185,042 Current liabilities (2,898) Total net assets 205,315 |
IT equipment £ 51,579 |
Total £ 127,693 127,693 104,522 5,792 110,314 17,379 23,171 2024 Total funds £ 17,379 412,187 (4,883) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51,579 | ||||
| 41,995 2,396 |
||||
| 44,391 | ||||
| 7,188 | ||||
| 9,584 | ||||
| Restricted £ - 230,749 - 230,749 Restricted £ - 224,709 (3,788) 220,921 |
||||
| 424,683 | ||||
| 2023 Total funds £ 23,171 409,751 (6,686) |
||||
| 426,236 |
Page 15
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
| 13 Funds Unrestricted funds General General Fund Restricted funds MHCLG fund Resettlement Fund Beeston Consolidated Total restricted funds Total funds |
Balance at 1 April 2023 £ 205,315 212,306 8,615 - 220,921 426,236 |
Incoming resources £ 148,080 194,905 - 37,113 232,018 380,098 |
Resources expended £ (159,461) (179,472) (5,605) (37,113) (222,190) (381,651) |
Balance at 31 March 2024 £ 193,934 227,739 3,010 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 230,749 | ||||
| 424,683 |
The specific purposes for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:
The MHCLG funding has been provided to ensure that the Refuge is not at risk of closure.
The Resettlement funding (now called Flexi fund) is to support women to access Refuge who may be barred for financial reasons.
The Beeston consolidated fund, funds received towards salaries.
| Unrestricted funds General General Fund Restricted MHCLG fund Resettlement Fund Beeston Consolidated Total restricted funds Total funds |
Balance at 1 April 2022 £ 189,362 154,587 10,000 - 164,587 353,949 |
Incoming resources £ 149,835 195,250 - 36,000 231,250 381,085 |
Resources expended £ (133,882) (137,531) (1,385) (36,000) (174,916) (308,798) |
Balance at 31 March 2023 £ 205,315 212,306 8,615 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220,921 | ||||
| 426,236 |
Page 16
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
14 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: | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Independent examination | 1,300 | 1,165 |
| Other financial services | 80 | - |
15 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.
16 Related party transactions
There were no related party transactions in the year.
17 Taxation
The charity is a registered charity and is therefore exempt from taxation.
18 Charity status
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and consequently does not have share capital. Each of the trustees is liable to contribute an amount not exceeding £1 towards the assets of the charity in the event of liquidation.
Page 17
Company registration number: 03122842 Charity registration number: 1055578
Midlands Women's Aid
(A company limited by guarantee)
Annual Report and Financial Statements
for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
Community Accounting Plus Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Midlands Women's Aid
Contents
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
|---|---|
| Trustees' Report | 2 to 4 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 5 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 6 to 7 |
| Balance Sheet | 8 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 9 to 17 |
Midlands Women's Aid
Reference and Administrative Details
Trustees Kathleen C Cains, Treasurer / Chair Susan Shaw Holly Venn Senior Management Team Catherine Saunders, Chief Executive Charity Registration Number 1055578 Company Registration Number 03122842 Registered Office Charlotte House Stanier Way The Wyvern Business Park Derby DE21 6BF Independent Examiner John O'Brien, employee of Community Accounting Plus Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Page 1
Midlands Women's Aid
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 2024.
Trustees
Kathleen Cains, Treasurer / Chair Susan Shaw Holly Venn
Structure, governance and management
Nature of governing document
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and registered charity. It is operated under the rules of its memorandum and articles of association dated 7 November 1995 and most recently amended 3 April 1996. It has no share capital and the liability of each member in the event of winding-up is limited to £1.
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
Advertised for via Website, selected process, interviewed by Trustees and appointed on receipt of favourable references.
Induction and training of trustees
Trustees should avoid recommending people who are close colleagues, friends or relatives as this may affect the balance and objectivity of the committee as a whole.
New trustees are appointed on receipt of favourable references from two referees, they attend two committee meetings prior to joining the committee. This will apply to a co-optee or a member.
New trustees undergo an induction period to brief them on their legal obligations under charity and company law, the content of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the committee and decision making process, the business plan and recent financial performance of the charity. During this period they meet key employees and other trustees.
They receive a copy of the Standing Orders and Delegated Authorities and information relating to a description of the service e.g. leaflets, annual reports.
Organisational structure
The board of trustees administers the charity. The board meets quarterly. A CEO is employed to manage the day to day operations together with a staff team. To facilitate effective operations the CEO has delegated authority, within terms of delegation approved by the trustees, for operational matters including finance, employment and minor purchases.
Page 2
Midlands Women's Aid
Trustees' Report
Objectives and activities
Objects and aims
The aims and objectives of this organisation are to assist women and children in necessitous circumstances and in particular those women and children who had suffered from violence and maltreatment in their own homes.
• To provide refuge where such women and their children could enjoy temporary rest and protection from attack or persecution;
-
To assist in providing education, housing, legal and medical advice, financial support for themselves and their children;
-
To provide ongoing support to women who have been re-housed as, and if, necessary;
-
To support where possible women who preferred not to seek refuge.
Objectives, strategies and activities
We provide Refuge accommodation, support for women and children, outreach and move on and resettlement services, awareness raising and training.
Public benefit
The work of the charity provides public benefit by providing refuge accommodation by providing Refuge accommodation we keep women and children safe from further abuse. By providing healthy relationship course we equip women and children with the necessary skills and tools to assist them to go forward and live their lives free from abuse and help them realise their full potential. Reduce crime, reduce mental health problems, reduce need to seek medical services and reduce Social Services involvement.
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
We have supported 85 survivors of Domestic Abuse. 53 of them have been re-housed away from abuse. 32 of them are currently housed in our safe accommodation.
Feedback shows that 99% of our survivors felt safer, 99% had increased self esteem, 95% had improved mental health.
Referrals are accepted from all parts of the Country. Each client is supported by a key worker using individually tailored support plans to identify their needs, signposting to other agencies, ie drug/alcohol, mental health. We provide advocacy for women and children. We work with our client on safety planning, healthy relationships and wellbeing courses.
Financial review
Due to several years of sustainable funding we are financially secure.
Policy on reserves
It is our policy to keep a reserve of six months income.
Principal risks and uncertainties
Funding uncertainty
Failure to secure funding from April 2026 could risk our services going forward from that date.
Page 3
Midlands Women's Aid
Trustees' Report
Statement of Responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors of Midlands Women's Aid for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), 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 prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied 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:
-
select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
-
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
-
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
-
state whether applicable accounting standards, comprising FRS 102 have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and
-
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.
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 comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable 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 legislation in other jurisdictions.
Small companies provision statement
This report has been prepared in accordance with the small companies regime under the Companies Act 2006.
The annual report was approved by the trustees of the charity on 12 December 2024 and signed on its behalf by:
......................................... Kathleen C Cains Trustee
Page 4
Midlands Women's Aid
Independent Examiner's Report to the trustees of Midlands Women's Aid ('the Company')
Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Midlands Women's Aid ('the Company')
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 March 2024.
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 and Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners, 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:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
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
-
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.
...................................... John O'Brien MSc, FAIA, FCCA, FCIE, employee of Community Accounting Plus Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners
Units 1 & 2 North West 41 Talbot Street Nottingham NG1 5GL
Date:.............................
Page 5
Midlands Women's Aid
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)
| Note Income and Endowments from: Donations and legacies 2 Charitable activities 3 Investment income 5 Total Income Expenditure on: Charitable activities 6 Total Expenditure Net (expenditure)/income Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 13 |
Unrestricted £ 3,945 143,887 248 148,080 (159,461) (159,461) (11,381) (11,381) 205,315 193,934 |
Restricted £ - 232,018 - 232,018 (222,190) (222,190) 9,828 9,828 220,921 230,749 |
Total 2024 £ 3,945 375,905 248 380,098 (381,651) (381,651) (1,553) (1,553) 426,236 424,683 |
Total 2023 £ 4,125 376,864 96 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 381,085 | ||||
| (308,798) | ||||
| (308,798) | ||||
| 72,287 | ||||
| 72,287 353,949 |
||||
| 426,236 |
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 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 6
Midlands Women's Aid
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses)
These are the figures for the previous accounting period and are included for comparative purposes
| Note 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 Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 13 |
Unrestricted funds £ 4,125 145,614 96 149,835 (133,882) (133,882) 15,953 15,953 189,362 205,315 |
Restricted funds £ - 231,250 - 231,250 (174,916) (174,916) 56,334 56,334 164,587 220,921 |
Total 2023 £ 4,125 376,864 96 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 381,085 | |||
| (308,798) | |||
| (308,798) | |||
| 72,287 | |||
| 72,287 353,949 |
|||
| 426,236 |
The notes on pages 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 7
Midlands Women's Aid
(Registration number: 03122842) Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2024
| Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 11 Current assets Debtors 8 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 9 Net current assets Net assets Funds of the charity: Restricted income funds Restricted funds 13 Unrestricted income funds Unrestricted funds Total funds 13 |
2024 £ 17,379 745 411,442 412,187 (4,883) 407,304 424,683 230,749 193,934 424,683 |
2023 £ 23,171 648 409,103 |
|---|---|---|
| 409,751 (6,686) |
||
| 403,065 | ||
| 426,236 | ||
| 220,921 205,315 |
||
| 426,236 |
For the financial year ending 31 March 2024 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors' responsibilities:
-
The members have not required the charity to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476; and
-
The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
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 6 to 17 were approved by the trustees, and authorised for issue on 12 December 2024 and signed on their behalf by:
.........................................
Kathleen C Cains Trustee
The notes on pages 9 to 17 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 8
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
Basis of preparation
Midlands Women's Aid 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.
Page 9
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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.
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 £500.00 or more are initially recorded at cost.
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 |
|---|---|
| Leasehold improvements | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
| Furniture & equipment | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
| IT equipment | 25% on a reducing balance basis |
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.
Page 10
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
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.
Pensions and other post retirement obligations
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity. Pension costs charges in the Statement of Financial Activities represent the contributions payable by the charity during the year.
2 Income from donations and legacies
| Donations and legacies; Donations from companies, trusts and similar proceeds Donations from individuals |
Unrestricted funds General £ 2,000 1,945 3,945 |
Total 2024 £ 2,000 1,945 3,945 |
Total 2023 £ 500 3,625 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4,125 |
3 Income from charitable activities
| Grants and donations Housing benefit Resident rents Sundry income |
Unrestricted funds General £ - 135,385 8,498 4 143,887 |
Restricted funds £ 232,018 - - - 232,018 |
Total 2024 £ 232,018 135,385 8,498 4 375,905 |
Total 2023 £ 231,250 133,965 11,649 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 376,864 |
Page 11
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
4 Grants & donations
| 4 Grants & donations |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Beeston Consolidated Charity Sundry grants & donations Notts CC BPB UK 5 Investment income Interest receivable and similar income; Interest receivable on bank deposits |
Unrestricted funds £ - 1,945 - 2,000 3,945 Unrestricted funds General £ 248 |
Restricted funds £ 37,133 - 194,885 - 232,018 Total 2024 £ 248 |
Total £ 37,133 1,945 194,885 2,000 |
| 235,963 | |||
| Total 2023 £ 96 |
Interest receivable and similar income; Interest receivable on bank deposits
Page 12
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
6 Expenditure on charitable activities
| Activities & events Building, repairs & maintenance Cleaning Council tax Depreciation Dues & subscriptions Equipment Grant spend (resettlement) Insurance IT expenses Nacs Office expenses Printing & postage Professional fees Refreshments Salaries, NI & pensions Security Staff expenses Sundry expenses Telephone Training Utilities Travel & meetings |
Unrestricted funds General £ 2,888 7,114 2,008 2,478 5,792 2,139 20,805 - 5,898 1,580 14,003 292 1,892 59,482 77 - 651 722 589 1,260 1,884 26,513 1,394 159,461 |
Restricted funds £ - - - - - - 1,450 5,605 - 1,944 - - - - - 211,537 - - - - 1,654 - - 222,190 |
Total 2024 £ 2,888 7,114 2,008 2,478 5,792 2,139 22,255 5,605 5,898 3,524 14,003 292 1,892 59,482 77 211,537 651 722 589 1,260 3,538 26,513 1,394 381,651 |
Total 2023 £ 2,026 7,361 2,523 3,134 7,723 1,202 5,562 1,385 3,604 3,837 9,188 593 1,766 46,754 151 168,920 1,007 - 163 1,973 1,342 37,599 985 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 308,798 |
7 Net incoming/outgoing resources
Net (outgoing)/incoming resources for the year include:
Depreciation of fixed assets
| 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|
| £ | £ |
| 5,792 | 7,723 |
Page 13
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
8 Debtors
| Prepayments 9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Other taxation and social security Other creditors 10 Staff costs The aggregate payroll costs were as follows: Staff costs during the year were: Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs |
2024 £ 745 2024 £ - 4,883 4,883 2024 £ 196,479 12,323 2,735 211,537 |
2023 £ 648 |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 £ 3,560 3,126 |
||
| 6,686 | ||
| 2023 £ 156,212 10,376 2,332 |
||
| 168,920 |
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 8 |
2023 No 6 |
|---|---|---|
5 (2023 - 5) of the above employees participated in the Defined Contribution Pension Schemes.
Contributions to the employee pension schemes for the year totalled £2,735 (2023 - £2,332).
No employee received emoluments of more than £60,000 during the year.
The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £59,699 (2023 - £57,518).
Page 14
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
11 Tangible fixed assets
| Leasehold improvements £ Furniture and equipment £ Cost At 1 April 2023 13,800 62,314 At 31 March 2024 13,800 62,314 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 11,599 50,928 Charge for the year 550 2,846 At 31 March 2024 12,149 53,774 Net book value At 31 March 2024 1,651 8,540 At 31 March 2023 2,201 11,386 12 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 17,379 Current assets 181,438 Current liabilities (4,883) Total net assets 193,934 Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 23,171 Current assets 185,042 Current liabilities (2,898) Total net assets 205,315 |
Leasehold improvements £ Furniture and equipment £ Cost At 1 April 2023 13,800 62,314 At 31 March 2024 13,800 62,314 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 11,599 50,928 Charge for the year 550 2,846 At 31 March 2024 12,149 53,774 Net book value At 31 March 2024 1,651 8,540 At 31 March 2023 2,201 11,386 12 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 17,379 Current assets 181,438 Current liabilities (4,883) Total net assets 193,934 Unrestricted General £ Tangible fixed assets 23,171 Current assets 185,042 Current liabilities (2,898) Total net assets 205,315 |
IT equipment £ 51,579 |
Total £ 127,693 127,693 104,522 5,792 110,314 17,379 23,171 2024 Total funds £ 17,379 412,187 (4,883) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51,579 | ||||
| 41,995 2,396 |
||||
| 44,391 | ||||
| 7,188 | ||||
| 9,584 | ||||
| Restricted £ - 230,749 - 230,749 Restricted £ - 224,709 (3,788) 220,921 |
||||
| 424,683 | ||||
| 2023 Total funds £ 23,171 409,751 (6,686) |
||||
| 426,236 |
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Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
| 13 Funds Unrestricted funds General General Fund Restricted funds MHCLG fund Resettlement Fund Beeston Consolidated Total restricted funds Total funds |
Balance at 1 April 2023 £ 205,315 212,306 8,615 - 220,921 426,236 |
Incoming resources £ 148,080 194,905 - 37,113 232,018 380,098 |
Resources expended £ (159,461) (179,472) (5,605) (37,113) (222,190) (381,651) |
Balance at 31 March 2024 £ 193,934 227,739 3,010 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 230,749 | ||||
| 424,683 |
The specific purposes for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:
The MHCLG funding has been provided to ensure that the Refuge is not at risk of closure.
The Resettlement funding (now called Flexi fund) is to support women to access Refuge who may be barred for financial reasons.
The Beeston consolidated fund, funds received towards salaries.
| Unrestricted funds General General Fund Restricted MHCLG fund Resettlement Fund Beeston Consolidated Total restricted funds Total funds |
Balance at 1 April 2022 £ 189,362 154,587 10,000 - 164,587 353,949 |
Incoming resources £ 149,835 195,250 - 36,000 231,250 381,085 |
Resources expended £ (133,882) (137,531) (1,385) (36,000) (174,916) (308,798) |
Balance at 31 March 2023 £ 205,315 212,306 8,615 - |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220,921 | ||||
| 426,236 |
Page 16
Midlands Women's Aid
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
14 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: | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Independent examination | 1,300 | 1,165 |
| Other financial services | 80 | - |
15 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.
16 Related party transactions
There were no related party transactions in the year.
17 Taxation
The charity is a registered charity and is therefore exempt from taxation.
18 Charity status
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and consequently does not have share capital. Each of the trustees is liable to contribute an amount not exceeding £1 towards the assets of the charity in the event of liquidation.
Page 17