OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator.

2023-03-31-accounts

Registered number: 03206320 Charity number: 1057772

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

CONTENTS

Page
Reference and administrative details of the Charity, its Trustees and advisers 1
Trustees' report 2 - 16
Independent auditors' report on the financial statements 17 - 20
Statement of financial activities 21
Balance sheet 22
Statement of cash flows 23
Notes to the financial statements 24 - 41

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Trustees
S Gamble		 Trustees
S Gamble
R Holderness (appointed 2 November 2022)
T Hughes
R Morris (appointed 2 November 2022)
M Langley
C Robson (resigned 17 May 2023)
J Tremlett
Company registered
number
03206320
Charity registered
number
1057772
Registered office
20 Colegate
Norfolk
NR3 1BQ
Company secretary
Richard Ward
Chief executive officer
Richard Ward
Independent auditors
Larking Gowen LLP
Chartered Accountants
1st Floor, Prospect House
Rouen Road
Norwich
NR1 1RE

Page 1

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

The Trustees present their annual report together with the audited financial statements of the Charity for the year 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023. The Annual report serves the purposes of both a Trustees' report and a directors' report under company law. The Trustees confirm that the Annual report and financial statements of the charitable company comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charitable company's governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019).

Since the Charity qualifies as small under section 382 of the Companies Act 2006, the Strategic report required of medium and large companies under the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors' Report) Regulations 2013 has been omitted.

Objectives and activities

a. Policies and objectives

The Assist Trust is all about independence and is based on the belief that we are all equal citizens.

We develop the strengths of people with learning disabilities in Norfolk by providing personalised, outcomefocussed programmes.

We fulfil potential and promote a sense of purpose, well-being and integration into the community.

Page 2

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

“I enjoy coming to Assist and chatting with my friends and meeting new people. This has helped me become more confident. I’ve also learnt craft skills since coming to Assist like working with clay which I hadn’t done before. I’d never done woodwork before either and didn’t know how to use the different tools at first”

Dan talking about attending Assist and learning new skills

“We really like to help people and doing this group helps us to go out more. I feel like I’m doing something good.”

Hayley talking about the Local Volunteering Group

“I go to the café to work on Fridays. I get the bus by myself. I was travel trained and now I can do it independently. I enjoy everything about the café. I serve customers, wash up and sometimes cook. I got a level 2 food hygiene for catering certificate so I could do that.”

William talking about working at the Assist Trust café (at the Norman Centre).

One of the key targets for the year was returning to normal services after the Covid 19 pandemic so as to deliver on these objectives.

b. Returning to normal services after the Covid 19 outbreak

“After Covid and everyone having to stay at home it’s good to be able to see people. I go to one building and some of my friends go to the other so It’s nice to be able to do things with them”

Harry, talking about meeting friends at Assist Trust

Life gradually returned to something like normality throughout 2022 and into 2023, as the threat of further Covid related disruptions slowly receded. All members seemed relieved and happy to be returning to services at Assist Trust, with the chance to see friends and to engage in meaningful activities once again.

Restrictions were lifted very gradually over those early months, while increased hygiene levels and extra cleaning schedules were maintained. To begin with the simple act of returning to day services was enough for many, to relieve the stress and boredom that had preceded it, but momentum soon built and levels of expectations amongst the members grew rapidly.

Many members had to be supported carefully during this phase, in order to restore lost levels of confidence and self-belief, and much of the community based work at Assist had to start again almost from scratch. Travel training and job coaching activities in particular had to rebuild from the ground up, as members started to resume their own journeys towards greater independence once again.

Page 3

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

c. Public benefit

The Trustees confirm that in exercising their powers and duties, they have complied with their duty to have due regard to the guidance on public benefit published by the Charity Commission.

In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the document “Charity Governance for larger charities”. The main acitivities undertaken to further the Charity's purposes for public benefit are set out in section d below.

d. Main activities undertaken to further the Charity’s purposes for public benefit

Referral process and support offered at Assist

Most referrals for individuals wishing to make use of Assist Trust services come from Social Workers or from other care professionals involved in the care of that person. Occasionally, enquiries are received from family members or others looking for a suitable placement, but in all cases we insist that the individual themselves comes to have a look at what’s on offer so that they can make an informed decision.

If an individual has an unmet need identified via a Social Services assessment, Assist can be considered for support in areas such as:

New members are welcomed at Assist and given plenty of time to find their feet as they get to know everyone. All members have an assigned keyworker who acts as a point of contact for the individual and for everyone involved in their care and, once people have settled in, they are helped to choose the activities that match their needs and goals the most.

Strengths based support

All members at Assist are given the opportunity to make progress in their lives, at a pace that suits them. Whatever their level of ability or need, members are supported positively to focus on things they do well and things they enjoy. Over time, individuals are also encouraged to manage responsibilities and to learn about expectations in the workplace and in society in general.

By taking a very person-centred approach to this support, individuals are given the best possible chance for success in the real world - often surpassing the expectations of others as they do so.

Page 4

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Groups and Activities

Over 50 different groups run each week at Assist, at each of its 2 main sites (Colegate buildings and Lazar House / Heath Gardens). With the timetable changing every 4 months, members are given regular opportunities to choose the groups they prefer and those that support their own particular goals and aspirations. These range from confidence building project groups, to those that focus on particular skills (like cooking and budgeting groups) to those that build on travel and work skills.

Positive Risk Taking

Assist takes a positive attitude towards risk, acknowledging that the best way to explore independence is to manage risk and support individuals to keep themselves safe as much as possible. This is always done in communication with the individual and with their support network, to ensure that all parties can work together to enable as much independence as possible.

Confidence Levels and Positive Behaviour Support

All Assist Trust members are helped to gradually gain confidence and to build mutual levels of trust with those supporting them. Whatever the level of need or ability, individuals can only make progress towards greater independence when there are strong levels of confidence and trust in place. Even if people struggle, the philosophy is to consider mishaps or mistakes as opportunities to learn and develop as individuals - Assist will always encourage people to try, try and try again!

Staff at Assist will also look for positive ways to manage difficult situations or behaviours that challenge, exploring every possible avenue to find a successful approach. At the same time, members will often respond to the positive support of those around them and will inspire each other to try new things and make progress in their lives.

Page 5

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Travel Training and Community Access

The travel training and employment team at Assist has many years of successful experience to draw on, as they support individuals wishing to get out and about and into work in their own communities.

For over 10 years, Assist has raised extra funds to support the functioning of this team, which has helped so many individuals manage significant steps towards greater independence. Programmes of travel training are very systematic and person centred and they will build on the work taking place in all community based groups and activities.

Assist recognises that transport is a key element in an independent life and the charity is proud to have achieved so much success in this area (see outcomes detailed below).

Volunteering, work experience and employment

The same Assist team that supports individuals with independent travel is also responsible for finding and supporting work placements in the local community. As with all other support on offer at Assist, progress in this area is carefully managed to be at the individual’s own pace, in the knowledge that the most successful placements are those that have been developed gradually on both sides.

As well as supporting each individual member in a very focussed way, the team at Assist build strong relations with local employers and remain on hand to deal with any hiccups or issues that arise as people settle into new roles.

The success achieved by members of Assist in these areas owes a lot to the ethos of the whole organisation – helping people to understand expectations in the work place and in society as a whole, so that every single person is given the best chance of success in the real world. Employment support at the Trust starts with very little steps to begin with, as people get used to the idea of work, with those steps gradually building towards paid employment or whatever level that the individual can manage. These steps can be described as follows:

“I work as a catering assistant in a school. It’s a paid job and I was so pleased to get my first month’s pay.”

Susan talking about her new job as a kitchen assistant

Page 6

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Independent Living and Housing

Another fast developing area of support provided by Assist is its housing and supported living arm.

For many years Assist has been supporting individuals to learn more about managing their own home and making plans for living more independently, but few housing opportunities were available at the Trust until recently. The numbers of properties that Assist can let or sublet to its members has grown steadily over recent years and momentum is building with these developments - as much as in any other area of service provision.

By working closely with commissioning managers at Norfolk County Council and others, Assist is committed to increasing its support for individuals who wish to live more independently in the future.

“I like being able to go to the shops to get my food. I can also get to the city using the bus. I like the independence that living at my new home has given me.”

Louise talking about moving into an Assist Trust house

Facilities

Assist runs from 3 main sites to the north of the City of Norwich. It also runs the “Meeting Place” café at the Norman Centre, a leisure centre in the Mile Cross area of north Norwich. Details for Assist Trust premises are as follows:

Page 7

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Achievements and performance

a. Key performance indicators

Numbers of people being referred to Assist Trust.

These have remained very steady throughout this busy period. While there were more than the usual numbers of changes throughout Covid affected periods, things settled down again as services returned to normal and as interest in Assist returned to previous levels. At the time of writing, Assist has a waiting list for those wishing to attend and services are running at close to capacity on most days of the week.

Norfolk County Council support

As with previous years, support from Norfolk County Council has remained high throughout this time. The progressive model of work employed at Assist has recently been further endorsed by the local authority, following the introduction of a new framework for all service provision in the region. The ethos behind the new Day Opportunities framework closely reflects that which sits behind all work taking place at the Trust and it helps to set the tone for all such work in the region going forward.

At the time of writing, Assist remains in close contact with commissioning managers and leaders at the Council as new “Pathway” elements of provision are considered for the coming years. The first pathway under consideration is the Skills and Employment element, which should complement the successful and progressive work that has been taking place at Assist for many years.

Page 8

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Achievements and performance (continued)

b. Review of activities

Outcomes achieved by the members at Assist Trust

Considering how much of the work at Assist had to start all over again following Covid disruptions, the success achieved by the members over this period has been remarkable. The following figures represent outcomes measured in early 2023:

Fundraising Support

The outcomes detailed above owe a significant debt to the many Trusts and Foundations who continue to support the good work of the charity. Many of the following list have supported Assist for many years, despite recent disruptions to services, and the Trust remains extremely grateful for their continued loyalty:

These organisations have supported the main ongoing appeals run by Assist at this time, for the Independence Support Scheme (allowing focussed travel training and job coaching support), for the Café Assistant role at the

Page 9

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Achievements and performance (continued)

Norman Centre café and for ongoing improvements to facilities and resources at the Trust.

Over £80,000 was raised collectively over this period for these vital causes and Assist remains indebted to the Trusts and Foundations who have chosen to support such important work.

Financial review

a. Going concern

Despite the significant disruptions caused by the Covid 19 outbreak, Assist services re-established rapidly over the course of 2022 and early 2023. The changes to people’s circumstances while lock downs were occurring affected the income of Assist and the charity had to respond flexibly in order to manage and to stay financially secure. Increased staff turnover was another factor that threatened to disrupt ongoing services and make it difficult to resume former levels of work, but stability was maintained throughout.

The numbers of people being referred to Assist services soon returned to previous levels and the charity emerged from the Covid affected period with renewed vigour and a stronger sense of purpose than ever. With continued support and collaboration with Norfolk County Council and its strong team of supporters, Assist can now confidently plan effectively for a bright future and the Trustees remain confident that the organisation can be considered a going concern for the foreseeable future.

Page 10

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

b. Reserves policy

The Trustees are conscious of the need to maintain unrestricted reserves sufficient to meet planned and unforeseen fluctuations in income and expenditure for the foreseeable future. Ongoing budget concerns for services in the region mean that the Trustees intend to maintain a policy whereby the free reserves held by the charity should be between 3 and 6 months’ worth of the resources expended. At present the free reserves, which are those unrestricted funds not invested in fixed assets, excluding designated funds, and excluding long term mortgage liabilities, amount to £386,556 (2022: £339,606) which approximates to the equivalent of 4.3 (2022: 4.3) months' operating expenditure. The mortgage will be covered by future rental income and is therefore excluded from the free reserves calculation.

c. Principal risks and uncertainties

The Assist Trust risk register logs all the potential issues that could detract or derail the core functioning of the charity, along with recommended actions and plans designed to mitigate identified risks. The Risk and Safeguarding sub-Committee (made up of Trustees and staff members from Assist) consider all potential risks to the organisation on a regular basis, under the following headings:

As normal services were resumed over the course of the year, the charity focussed mainly on restoring previous levels of activity, recruiting to bring the staff team back to full strength and ensuring that most available spaces at the day service were filled without too much delay.

Plans to mitigate risks in all these areas involved developing new ways to advertise and recruit good quality staff, as well as re-establishing promotion activity to ensure the good name of the organisation was known amongst people who might wish to access services in the future.

Reviewing the risk register once most core services were back up and running showed that the major ongoing risks for the charity were as follows:

As well as the actions detailed above, Assist sought to mitigate concerns by drawing up clear business continuity plans - in case of severe disruption - and by maintaining a positive and progressive dialogue with Norfolk County Council. Recent developments with the way services are to be commissioned in Norfolk included the launch of a new “Day Opportunities framework”, which aims to align providers in regards to service provision, terms and conditions. Assist is very well placed to uphold all aspects of this framework as a market leader in areas of community access, travel training, employment support and independent living support.

In order to maintain a clear and direct line between the needs and wishes of the members attending and the activity and development of the Trust, a new 5 year Assist Trust strategic plan has been developed, setting out

Page 11

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

exciting and ambitious targets for the charity for the years to come. As well as clarifying the strategic ambitions for Assist in areas such as confidence building, travel training, employment and housing, the new strategic document sets out plans for possible future development that will help to respond to needs of more members in new and innovative ways.

d. Financial risk management objectives and policies

The Trustees are confident that by developing and innovating services in response to the needs of the members – while maintaining effective management of all systems and structures – Assist can continue as a trusted provider of services for people with learning disabilities in Norfolk. Despite the financial challenges faced by all providers in the region, and by the Local Authority themselves, the board remains convinced that this policy continues to offer the best chance for the long term security of the charity.

The statement of financial activities show an increase in funds of £24,366 (2022: £97,041) with total incoming resources amounting to £1,097,546 (2022: £1,041,935) and total resources expended of £1,073,180 (2022: £944,894).

The charity’s balance sheet shows total funds of £1,063,058 (2022: £1,043,687) of which £62,852 were restricted at 31 March 2023 (2022: £64,319).

e. Principal funding

The majority of funding received by Assist to run its services comes via Norfolk County Council Social Services. A daily rate is charged by Assist and individuals either pay this through Social Services or via their own personal budgets, which are allocated following an assessment of need.

Assist has been an approved provider for Norfolk County Council for many years and it has recently been accepted onto the new Day Opportunities Framework. This framework aims to bring all day service providers in the region onto a common service specification, with consistent terms and conditions, so that high quality standards can be applied across the market place.

Assist has been taking a very active part in the discussions leading up to the launch of the new framework and much of the principals and direction of the document was informed by the success of services at Assist. Such positive collaboration looks to be further endorsed with the long-awaited introduction of the “Pathways” model of service provision. This process will involve the further break down of service requirements for people who need higher levels of support, those who might have the potential to find paid work and those who might fall between those two ends of the spectrum.

Progressive and innovative collaboration has long been the hallmark of Assist Trust services and the charity continues to build on the positive relationship it has with the local authority, helping to maintain its main source of income as a result.

The innovation and ground breaking services that have paved the way for such a positive relationship with the Local Authority were only made possible by the generous support of many Trusts and Foundations that have donated to Assist over the years. Income received in this way represents around 10% of the total income for the charity and it remains an essential component for a creative and energetic charity wishing to develop better and more responsive services.

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

Assist Trust is registered as a charitable company limited by guarantee and was set up by a Charity

Page 12

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Structure, governance and management (continued)

Commission Scheme, charity number 1057772. Assist Trust was incorporated on 31 May 1996 (amended 14 February 2000) and registered as a charity on 27 August 1996. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association, which established 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, Trustees are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

The management of the company is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected and co-opted under the terms of the Trust deed.

The directors of the company are also charity Trustees for the purposes of charity law. Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the members of the board of Trustees are elected to serve for a maximum of nine years.

The board of Trustees has sought to ensure that the Trustee body offers a diverse mix of experience and skills in order that the client group (adults with learning disabilities) is appropriately represented. The board currently advertises for new Trustees in house and via word of mouth. Areas of the expertise represented on the board include housing, finance, education, IT, health, law, strategy, management and HR. Details of abilities and experience are kept by Assist and action is taken to fill any perceived gaps in committee skills as vacancies arise.

c. Organisational structure and decision-making policies

Assist Trust has a board of Trustees of 7 (2022: 5). The board meet monthly and they are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. Financial services are outsourced to Aston Shaw, Chartered Accountants, who record details of all income and expenditure and provide Trustees with monthly management accounts. Day to day responsibility for the provision of services rests with the Chief Executive Officer, the Head of Services, the Office Manager and the Operations Managers.

d. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees

All Trustees are familiar with the work of Assist and they are able to visit all venues to see for themselves the services which they govern. Additionally, all Trustees are given copies of the Association’s Memorandum and Articles of Association and the latest annual report. The Chairperson is kept informed of any Trustee training offered by local organisations which may be of interest to committee members and relevant to all Trustees and they are offered the Charity Commission’s “The Essential Trustee” for reference.

e. Pay policy for key management personnel

The Trustees will continue to ensure that staff remuneration at Assist is carefully and appropriately assessed every 12 months, in the lead up to each new financial year. Members of the board will compare Assist rates with other suitable organisations in the sector and in the region in order to ascertain appropriate benchmarks. With that information and with reference to other financial considerations, such as pension obligations and negotiations with Norfolk County Council, the Trustees will make decisions that aim to maintain good levels of pay and working conditions for all works at the Trust, balanced with the financial realities of the time. Particular consideration will be given to appropriate remuneration for the CEO and other members of the senior management, in order to maintain levels of reward that fairly reflect the responsibilities involved, but that do not exceed reasonable limits. In these ways, the Trustees will aim to continue rewarding the workers of the Trust for their hard work and commitment, at levels that promote further motivation and long term investment and with a

Page 13

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Structure, governance and management (continued)

view that ensures the financial stability of the Trust.

Plans for future periods

Strategic Review

Throughout the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, Assist was engaged with a full review of its strategic plans. The members were asked about the groups they enjoyed and what they would like to see on the timetable in the future, as well as their opinion on some other Assist Trust plans for the future. Most people were very happy with things as Assist - with the chance to meet friends and have more of a social life being the biggest priority for many. Others were keen to see new groups made available, with ideas ranging from archery, to camping, to yoga, to brick laying! All of these thoughts were recorded and passed on to the managers and the Trustees, so that they could be considered properly.

Surveys were also sent out to families and carers at this time and the staff team at Assist were invited to give their ideas about possible plans at the Trust during regular staff training days. Finally, all of this feedback was collated and then considered in terms of the Assist Trust key strategic objectives, which are as follows:

  1. Improve services for Assist Trust members

  2. Help Assist Trust members to live more independently

  3. Develop new services that respond to need

  4. Recruit, support and retain good staff

  5. Raise the profile of Assist Trust and celebrate success

A new 5 year strategic plan was developed from this information, with ambitious but achievable targets set out for each year over that time period. These targets included the following:

Fundraising to maintain employment and travel training schemes

Many funders have generously and consistently supported Assist over the years, as it has developed new and innovative services for the members. The Independence Support Scheme and the Assist Trust café have been supported with these vital funds for a number of years and the success achieved by the members as a result has been remarkable (see outcome detailed earlier in this report).

Norfolk County Council has recognised the success of the models of work being employed at Assist and these were only made possible by the generosity of the many Trusts and Foundations that continue to support the Trust. As some aspects of the employment support model are due to become adopted by NCC for those individuals with the potential to gain paid work, Assist will look to use funds to support the majority of individuals attending who will always require some support – meaning that nobody misses out on these opportunities. Maintaining the stepping stone approach of employment support will be crucial to any such schemes in the future and Assist remains hugely thankful for the continued support of its funders.

Page 14

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Plans for future periods (continued)

Improving and developing services for all members

A large part of the new strategic plan for Assist Trust revolves around improving and developing the services it already provides to its members. In the surveys conducted during the strategic review, the vast majority of people were very happy with what was on offer and only wished to maintain and improve groups that were on the regular timetables. Assist will therefore continue to seek extra funding to allow access to more community facilities, to buy new equipment and resources for the Gardens and other premises and to maintain all sites to a high standard of repair and decoration.

The members at Assist deserve the very best services and facilities and the commitment to constantly improve all standards across the charity is stronger than ever.

Page 15

ASSIST TRUST (A company limlted by guarantee) TRUSTEES. REPORT {CONTINUEDI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023 Stalement of Trustees. responslbilities The Trustees Iwho are also the directors of the Charity for the purposes of company lawl are respong4ble for preparing the Trustees, report and Ihe financial statements in accordance wlh applicable law and United Kingdc>m Accounting Stsndards Iuniled Kingjom Generally Accepted Accounting Practi￿}. Company law requires the Trustees lo prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under ￿rnpanY law, the Truslees must not approve the linancial slalemenls unless they are satisfied Ihal they give a true and fair view ol the state of affairs of the Charity and of its in￿ming resour￿$ and application of resour¢es, induding ils income and exp￿dItUTe. for that period. In preparing these finanaal statements, the Trustees are quired lo.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consstenlly.. observe the methods and prinryples of the Charities SORP IFRS 1021- make judgments and a¢￿￿ntIng estimates that are ￿asonable and prudent.. stale vknelher applicable UK AccoLtnling Standards IFRS 1021 have been followed. subiecl to any material departures disdosed and explained in the financAal statements- prepare the financial slalemenls on the gryng concem ba￿S unless il is inappropriate lo presume that the Charity wll continue in bU￿ness. The Tiuslees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient lo show and explain the Charity's transactions and disdose wilh reasonable accuracy al any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the finanaal sialemenls comply wih the Companies Act 2006. They are also re4)onsble for safeguarding the assets ol the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregvlaribes. Disclosure of informatlon to audltors Each of the persons vtho are Trustees al the time vthen this Tnjslees, rep￿ is approved has confirmed Ihal.. so far as that Twstee is aware. there is no relevant audit InfO￿natiOn of which the charity's auditors are unaware, and that Tnjslee has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a TrLsslee in order to b8 awar8 01 any felevanl audit infomalion arld lo establish thal the charity's auditors a￿ aware of that infomialion. Auditors The auditors, Larking Gowen LLP. have indicated Iheir willingne&8 lo continue in olfice. The designated Trustees will propose a motion reappoinijng the auditors al a meeting of the Trvslees. Approved by order of the membws of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by.. S Gamble (Trusleel Dale.. 15 11. Jo? 3 Page 16

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ASSIST TRUST

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Assist Trust (the 'charity') for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the Statement of financial activities, the Balance sheet, the Statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

Basis for opinion

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

Conclusions relating to going concern

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

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

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

Page 17

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ASSIST TRUST (CONTINUED)

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

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

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of our knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees' report.

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

Page 18

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ASSIST TRUST (CONTINUED)

Responsibilities of trustees

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

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

Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

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

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

Due to the field in which the Charity operates, we identified the following areas as those most likely to have a material impact on the financial statements: healthy and safety; employment laws; GDPR, safeguarding, serious incident reporting and compliance with the UK Companies Act.

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

Due to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that some material misstatements in the financial statements may not be detected, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the ISAs (UK). For instance, the further removed non-compliance is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the auditor is to become aware of it or to recognise the non-compliance.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' report.

Page 19

ASSIST TRUST IA company Ilmlted by guarantee) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS. REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF ASSIST TRUST {CONTINUEDI Use of our report This repK)rt is made solely to the charitable company's members. as a b￿y, in accordance with Chapter 3 01 Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit woth has been undertaken so that we might slate to Ihe Chariiable wmpany's members those mallers we are required lo slate lo them in an Auditors, report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent pemitted by law, we do not awt or assume responsbility lo anyone other than the charitable company and its members. as a body. lor our a￿lIt work. for this report, or for the opinions we have fomed. Julie Grimmer FCA DChA (Sgnior statutory auditor) for and on behalf of Larking Gowen LLP Chartered Accounlanls Stalulory Auditors 1st Floor, Prospect House Rouen Road Norwch NR1 1RE Dale.. 20 November 2023 Page 20

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Note
Income from:
Donations and legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Investments
6
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
Total expenditure
Net income
Transfers between funds
15
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried forward		 Restricted
funds
2023
£
78,922
2,690
-
81,612
81,079
81,079
533
(2,000)
(1,467)
64,319
(1,467)
62,852		 Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
2,120
1,012,577
1,237
1,015,934
992,101
992,101
23,833
2,000
25,833
979,368
25,833
1,005,201		 Total
funds
2023
£
81,042
1,015,267
1,237
1,097,546
1,073,180
1,073,180
24,366
-
24,366
1,043,687
24,366
1,068,053		 Total
funds
2022
£
108,175
933,634
126
1,041,935
944,894
944,894
97,041
-
97,041
946,646
97,041
1,043,687

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

The notes on pages 24 to 41 form part of these financial statements.

Page 21

ASSIST TRUST IA company limit•d by guaranleè) REGISTERED NUMBER- 03206320 BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2023 2023 2022 Note Flxed assets Tangible assets Current assets 11 667,939 291.542 Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 12 90,156 676,907 20,194 848, 706 767.063 868,900 Ciedilors.. amounts falling due wthin cffje year 13 141.781} (30, T02J Net current assets 725,282 838, 198 Total a$$et$ less current Ilabllltles 1.393,221 1. 129. 740 Creditors.. amounts falling due after mor8 than one year 14 (325,168) (86.053) Total net assets 1,068,053 1.043, 687 Charity funds Restricted funds Unrestrictfjd funds 62,852 1,005,201 64,319 979,368 15 Total funds 1,068,053 1.043,687 The Trustees aCkfi￿edge their re$￿SIbilItieS for complwng with the requirements of the Act with respect lo accounting records and preparab.on of financial sfalements. The finanoal sialemenls have been prepared in accordance the provisons applicable lo enlilies subject lo the small companies regime. The financial sialements were approved and authori￿1 for isyJe by the Trustees and sgned on their behalf by.. S Gamble ITruslee} Dale.. Is. 11.2Q?3 The notes or) pages 24 to 41 form part ol these financial slalements. Page 22

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Dividends, interests and rents from investments
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Cash inflows from new borrowing
Repayments of borrowing
Interest paid
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year		 2023
£
(7,212)
1,237
(405,172)
(403,935)
252,000
(6,190)
(6,462)
239,348
(171,799)
848,706
676,907		 2022
£
193,218
126
(13,923)
(13,797)
-
(5,433)
(3,414)
(8,847)
170,574
678,132
848,706

The notes on pages 24 to 41 form part of these financial statements

Page 23

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

1. General information

Assist Trust is a company limited by guarantee, registered office 20 Colegate, Norfolk, NR3 1BQ.

The financial statements are presented in Sterling and rounded to the nearest £.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) - Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

Assist Trust 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.

2.2 Company status

The company is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the Trustees named on page 1. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the company.

2.3 Going concern

The Trustees have considered a period of 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements and, based on the level of funds within the charity, the ongoing positive discussions with local authorities and the fact that services are now being provided at close to capacity levels once again, the Trustees deem it appropriate to prepare the accounts on an ongoing basis.

Further details can be found in the Trustees' report contained within these accounts, notably within the going concern, principal risks and uncertainties and principal funding sections.

Page 24

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.4 Income

All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

The recognition of income from legacies is dependent on establishing entitlement, the probability of receipt and the ability to estimate with sufficient accuracy the amount receivable. Evidence of entitlement to a legacy exists when the Charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them (through knowledge of the existence of a valid will and the death of the benefactor) and the executor is satisfied that the property in question will not be required to satisfy claims in the estate. Receipt of a legacy must be recognised when it is probable that it will be received and the fair value of the amount receivable, which will generally be the expected cash amount to be distributed to the Charity, can be reliably measured.

Donated services or facilities are recognised when the company has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the company of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with Charities SORP (FRS 102), the general volunteer time of the Friends is not recognised and refer to the Trustees' Report for more information about their contribution.

On receipt, donated professional services and facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the Charity which is the amount it would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt.

Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.

2.5 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the company. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the company and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the company's educational operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the company apportioned to charitable activities.

Page 25

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.6 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

2.7 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Tangible fixed assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred to bring a tangible fixed asset into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, .

Depreciation is provided on the following bases:

Freehold property - over 50 years
Leasehold property - over the lease term
Motor vehicles - 20% reducing balance
Fixtures and fittings - 25% straight line
Computer equipment - 25% straight line

2.8 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

2.9 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

2.10 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of financial activities as a finance cost.

Page 26

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.11 Financial instruments

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

2.12 Pensions

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

2.13 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgment

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions:

The Charity makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed below.

Useful economic lives of tangible assets

The annual depreciation charge for tangible assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful lives and residual values of the assets. The useful economic lives and residual values are reassessed annually. They are amended when necessary to reflect current estimates, based on technological advancement, future investments, economic utilization and the physical condition of the assets. See note 10 for the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and note 2.6 for the useful economic lives for each class of assets.

Page 27

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

4. Income from donations and legacies

Donations
Grants		 Restricted
funds
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
-
2,120
78,922
-
78,922
2,120		 Total
funds
2023
£
2,120
78,922
81,042

Page 28

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

4. Income from donations and legacies (continued)

Donations
Grants		 Restricted
funds
2022
£
-
102,263
102,263		 Unrestricted
funds
2022
£
5,912
-
5,912		 Total
funds
2022
£
5,912
102,263
108,175

5. Income from charitable activities

Activities in furtherance of the charity's objects
Activities in furtherance of the charity's objects		 Restricted
funds
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
2,690
1,012,577
Unrestricted
funds
2022
£
933,634		 Total
funds
2023
£
1,015,267
Total
funds
2022
£
933,634

6. Investment income

Unrestricted Total
funds funds
2023 2023
£ £
Investment income 1,237 1,237

Page 29

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

6. Investment income (continued)

Unrestricted Total
funds funds
2022 2022
£ £
Investment income 126 126

7. Analysis of expenditure by activities

Activities in furtherance of the charity's objects
Activities in furtherance of the charity's objects
Analysis of direct costs
Staff costs
Depreciation
Establishment		 Activities
undertaken
directly
2023
£
872,563
Activities
undertaken
directly
2022
£
754,794		 Support
costs
2023
£
200,617
Support
costs
2022
£
190,100
Activities
2023
£
634,656
28,775
209,132
872,563		 Total
funds
2023
£
1,073,180
Total
funds
2022
£
944,894
Total
funds
2023
£
634,656
28,775
209,132
872,563

Page 30

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

7. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued) Analysis of direct costs (continued)

Staff costs
Depreciation
Establishment		 Activities
2022
£
552,745
31,890
170,159
754,794		 Total
funds
2022
£
552,745
31,890
170,159
754,794

Analysis of support costs

Staff costs
Establishment
Staff costs
Establishment		 Activities
2023
£
111,934
88,683
200,617
Activities
2022
£
82,940
107,160
190,100		 Total
funds
2023
£
111,934
88,683
200,617
Total
funds
2022
£
82,940
107,160
190,100

Page 31

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

8. Auditors' remuneration

2023 2022
£ £
Fees payable to the Charity's auditor for the audit of the Charity's annual
accounts 9,540 6,270

9. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes		 2023
£
671,922
58,328
16,340
746,590		 2022
£
577,790
45,960
11,935
635,685

During the year redundancy and non-contractual severance payments of £nil (2022: £6,000) were made to 0 (2022: 1) employees. All amounts were paid during the year and are recognised on the basis set out in accounting policy 2.5.

The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:

Direct charitable
Administrative		 2023
No.
27
10
37		 2022
No.
26
10
36

Included within administrative staff are the 7 trustees who served during the year (2022: 7). No remuneration was paid to these trustees as detailed in note 10.

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

In 2023 5 (2022: 5) members of key management personnel received £217,272 for the year ended 31 March 2023 (2022: £206,498), including employers national insurance contributions.

10. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2022 - £NIL) .

During the year ended 31 March 2023, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2022 - £NIL) .

Page 32

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

11. Tangible fixed assets

Freehold
property
£
Cost or valuation
At 1 April 2022
246,987
Additions
374,917
At 31 March 2023
621,904
Depreciation
At 1 April 2022
9,880
Charge for the year
6,190
At 31 March 2023
16,070
Net book value
At 31 March 2023
605,834
At 31 March 2022
237,107
Debtors
Due within one year
Trade debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 Long-term
leasehold
property
£
205,493
-
205,493
169,274
15,096
184,370
21,123
36,219		 Motor
vehicles
£
6,800
-
6,800
2,448
870
3,318
3,482
4,352		 Fixtures and
fittings
£
57,624
30,255
87,879
43,760
6,619
50,379
37,500
13,864
2023
£
69,153
21,003
90,156		 Total
£
516,904
405,172
922,076
225,362
28,775
254,137
667,939
291,542
2022
£
7,391
12,803
20,194

12. Debtors

Page 33

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

13. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Bank loans
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income		 2023
£
12,243
9,097
3,155
17,286
41,781		 2022
£
5,548
7,099
4,577
13,478
30,702

The bank loans are repayable by installments over 15 and 20 years and are secured over the Charity's freehold property. Interest is charged at 3.8% / 6.4% p/a for 5 years, and subsequently at 2.65% / 2.5% plus base rate p/a (subject to a minimum of 2.65% / 2.5% p/a) respectively.

Page 34

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

14. Creditors: Amounts falling due after more than one year

Bank loans
Included within the above are amounts falling due as follows:
Between one and two years
Bank loans
Between two and five years
Bank loans
Over five years
Bank loans		 2023
£
325,168
2023
£
12,828
41,130
271,210		 2022
£
86,053
2022
£
5,762
20,203
60,088

The aggregate amount of liabilities payable or repayable wholly or in part more than five years after the reporting date is:

2023 2022
£ £
Payable or repayable by instalments 271,210 60,088

The bank loans are repayable by installments over 15 and 20 years and are secured over the Charity's freehold property. Interest is charged at 3.8% / 6.4% p/a for 5 years, and subsequently at 2.65% / 2.5% plus base rate p/a (subject to a minimum of 2.65% / 2.5% p/a) respectively.

Page 35

ASSIST TRUST (A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

15. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year

Balance at 1
April 2022
£
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
352,451
General funds
626,917
979,368
Restricted funds
General Current Funding
Needs
30,208
Outdoor Games Sports
Resources
14,458
IT Equipment
4,231
Independence Support
Scheme
13,422
Furniture
2,000
Events
-
Lazar House toilet
refurbishment
-
64,319
Total of funds
1,043,687		 Income
£
Expenditure
£
-
-
1,015,934
(992,101)
1,015,934
(992,101)
34,503
(14,634)
919
(11,394)
-
(1,503)
41,000
(51,049)
-
-
2,690
(2,499)
2,500
-
81,612
(81,079)
1,097,546
(1,073,180)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(73,849)
75,849
2,000
-
-
-
-
(2,000)
-
-
(2,000)
-		 Balance at
31 March
2023
£
278,602
726,599
1,005,201
50,077
3,983
2,728
3,373
-
191
2,500
62,852
1,068,053

Page 36

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

15. Statement of funds (continued)

Funds transfers

Following a review of restricted fund balances, it was concluded that there is no remaining restriction on funds totalling £2,000, which have therefore been transferred to unrestricted General Funds.

Restricted funds

The Independence Support Scheme represents donations to help provide funding for the continued employment of the independent support worker who is responsible for working with the members to support them with independent living skills.

The General Current Funding Needs fund represents donations received covering more than one appeal.

The Outdoor Games Sports Resources represents donations to help fund outdoor sports resources for use by members.

The cafe assistant salary of £13,764 has been funded through grant receipts within General Current Funding Needs. Fundraising for this position continues post year end.

Designated funds

This fund has been established to help secure future funding required for all improvements and developments at the Trust and for the housing and independent living project plans in particular. The net transfer represents cash used to purchase a property, funds to cover 3 salary positions and a further designation to maintain the charity's free reserves in line with the reserves policy.

Page 37

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

15. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year

Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
General funds
Restricted funds
Cafe Assistant
Independence Support
Scheme
General Current Funding
Needs
Outdoor Games Sports
Resources
Group Activities
Housing Officer
IT Equipment
Coronavirus
Furniture
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 April 2021
£
229,945
644,613
874,558
-
12,535
7,468
3,000
233
14,565
4,502
29,785
-
72,088
946,646		 Income
£
-
939,672
939,672
2,200
42,000
36,875
13,000
-
-
1,000
5,188
2,000
102,263
1,041,935		 Expenditure
£
-
(830,712)
(830,712)
(9,670)
(41,113)
(2,548)
(1,542)
-
(18,715)
(1,271)
(39,323)
-
(114,182)
(944,894)		 Transfers
in/out
£
122,506
(126,656)
(4,150)
7,470
-
(11,587)
-
(233)
4,150
-
4,350
-
4,150
-		 Balance at
31 March
2022
£
352,451
626,917
979,368
-
13,422
30,208
14,458
-
-
4,231
-
2,000
64,319
1,043,687

Page 38

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

16. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds - current year

Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Total		 Restricted
funds
2023
Unrestricted
funds
2023
£
£
2,728
665,211
60,124
706,939
-
(41,781)
-
(325,168)
62,852
1,005,201		 Total
funds
2023
£
667,939
767,063
(41,781)
(325,168)
1,068,053

Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year

Tangible fixed assets
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Creditors due in more than one year
Total		 Restricted
funds
2022
£
4,231
60,088
-
-
64,319		 Unrestricted
funds
2022
£
287,311
808,812
(30,702)
(86,053)
979,368		 Total
funds
2022
£
291,542
868,900
(30,702)
(86,053)
1,043,687

Page 39

(A company limited by guarantee)

ASSIST TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

17. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

Net income for the year (as per Statement of Financial Activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
(Increase)/ Decrease in debtors
Increase/(Decrease) in creditors
Interest paid
Interest received
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities
18.
Analysis of cash and cash equivalents
Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents
19.
Analysis of changes in net debt
At 1 April
2022
£
Cash at bank and in hand
848,706
Debt due within 1 year
(5,548)
Debt due after 1 year
(86,053)
757,105		 2023
£
24,366
28,775
(69,962)
4,384
6,462
(1,237)
(7,212)
2023
£
676,907
676,907
Cash flows
£
(171,799)
(6,695)
(239,115)
(417,609)		 2022
£
97,041
31,890
67,427
(6,428)
3,414
(126)
193,218
2022
£
848,706
848,706
At 31 March
2023
£
676,907
(12,243)
(325,168)
339,496

Page 40

ASSIST TRUST

(A company limited by guarantee)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

20. Pension commitments

The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £16,340 (2022: £11,935). There were amounts payable to the fund at the balance sheet date is £nil (2022- £142).

21. Operating lease commitments

At 31 March 2023 the Charity had commitments to make future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases as follows:

Not later than 1 year
Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years		 2023
£
49,376
73,552
122,928		 2022
£
82,379
123,865
206,244

22. Related party transactions

The Charity has not entered into any related party transaction during the year, nor are there any outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 March 2023.

23. Post balance sheet events

Since the year end the charity has entered into arrangements to purchase a property at 82 Templemere for £150,000. The property will be funded through designated funds.

Page 41