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2024-03-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 - 2024

Registered charity number 1058077 62-66 DUNSTER STREET NORTHAMPTON NN1 3JY Telephone 01604 816080 Email: info@dostiyo.org.uk; Website: www.dostiyo.co.uk; Facebook: DostiyoNpton

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 Contents 

Page no.
 Introduction 3
 Current Service Provision 3
 Project Scope and Objectives 4
 Dostiyo Management Committee and Staff 5
 Chair’s Report Anjona Roy 6
 Treasurer’s Report Farhat Lateef 6
 Centre Manager Report Deepa Bakrania 7 - 16
 Dostiyo Accounting Policies 17 - 18
 Dostiyo Annual Accounts 18 – 24
 Independent Examination Report 25

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 Introduction 

Dostiyo offers comprehensive overview of the needs for service development for Asian Communities and promoting access to services, transcending racial, religious, linguistic and cultural issues since 1979. Dostiyo also serves as an infrastructure development agency for Asian communities by supporting to set up Self Help groups managed by Volunteers, Constitution, gain charity status etc within Northampton and Wellingborough including Zindgani Asian Men’s Group. Sakhi Milaap Ladies Group, Milaap Group Wellingborough, Saheli Group and Dostiyo Community Fridge.

Working to overcome barriers Asian men and women face in their daily lives, Dostiyo provides them with opportunities for self-development, build their confidence and capacity and most importantly, help them on the path of self-help.

MISSION STATEMENT:

“To promote effective citizenship of Asian women and men regardless of age, religion, ethnicity, cast or creed, by helping them overcome barriers to accessing much needed services” eS  Current Service Provision  Currently Dostiyo provides Advocacy, support, guidance, information and counselling through its main activities, including:

The organisation’s aim of ensuring a dedicated approach to a service request means that regularly members are encouraged and supported to access activities that meet their needs.

Dostiyo’s ultimate objective is to conciliate and improve this position, through close and active multiagency working that would eventually provide effective citizenship and equality.

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 Project Scope and Objectives 

Dostiyo aims to provide the highest quality services to Asian communities for the benefit of Asian women their families and extended families.

Its core principles are:

It does this by:

Dostiyo provides services in varied areas:

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DOSTIYO MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Chair Secretary Treasurer Committee Members

Anjona Roy

Jagdishbhai Modha Farhat Lateef

Harsha Patel Akhtar Munir Balwinder Kaur Saroj Padhiar

DOSTIYO STAFF

Centre Development Manager

Deepa Bakrania

Advocacy Worker (Northampton)

Kalsuma Begum

Day- Care Co-ordinator: Northampton Wellingborough

Indira Patel Sonal Patel Jaya Tailor

Community Fridge Workers

Saiyara Chowdhury Vanisha Patel

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 CHAIR’S REPORT 

Anjona Roy

As Chair of Dostiyo Asian Women and Girls Organisation, I am proud to reflect on another year of growth and collaboration. 2023 brought us new hope and new opportunities. The year still was a post pandemic year with challenges for both ourselves and our service users of the cost of living crisis.

This year, we have expanded our services, increased community engagement, and launched new initiatives to support cultural preservation, education, and social welfare. We’ve seen strong participation in our events and programs, with an emphasis on empowering asian women and addressing mental health needs. Our efforts have fostered greater unity and a stronger voice for our community. Our Community Fridge has offered new opportunities to learn together, cook together and eat together.

Our thanks as a committee as always go to the committed and dedicated staff without whom we simply would not achieve even a small proportion of what we have achieved.

Looking ahead, we remain focused on strengthening partnerships, promoting inclusivity, and continuing to serve as a vital resource for the diverse needs of our community.

 TREASURER’S REPORT 

Farhat Lateef

The treasurer is responsible for keeping proper records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the organisation and to ensure that the accounts comply with the requirement outlined with the Accounting for Charities and policies for the Constitution.

The management have reviewed the internal controls during the year and found them to be in generally accordance with the charities commission guidelines and appropriate actions have been put in place in the few areas that required attention

Last year, we have secured our core services and endeavour to ensure that our services will continue to support women and the broader community. The organisation has had to review budget considering the reduction of core funding, the committee has had to take decisions and continuously monitor expenses to maintain financial stability and sustain staff and services. The organisation has been exploring various ways of generating income.

Members nominate trustees for Annual elections. Trustees are elected annually at the Annual General Meeting. New trustees are offered an induction meeting within 6 weeks. In this way we hope all staff, volunteers and trustees will benefit from formal induction into the organisation.

Balance at the end of year 2024 is £180,206 out of which £28847 is Restricted Funds and rest are Designated Funds. Dostiyo has adopted a Reserves Policy with a rationale to maintain sufficient level of reserves to enable normal operating activities to continue over a period of up to 6 months should a shortfall in income occur and to take account of potential risks and contingencies that may arise from time to time.

Thanks to Lorraine Scullion for preparing the accounts efficiently and to Leo Book Keeping Services Ltd carrying out our independent examination.

Signed ..Farhat Lateef..........................................

Date: ..10/11/2024.....................

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 CENTRE MANAGER  Deepa Bakrania

I am pleased to present the Annual Report for the year 2023-24. This report highlights our achievements, challenges, and ongoing commitment to empowering Asian women in our community. Through dedicated programs in health, education, and cultural integration, we’ve fostered resilience, inclusivity, and positive change for those we serve.

This year brought significant challenges for us, especially in securing funding and responding to the cost-of-living crisis affecting our community. Rising costs and limited financial resources tested our resilience and adaptability. However, through perseverance, strategic planning, and collaborative efforts, we successfully navigated these obstacles. By securing essential funding, expanding partnerships, and developing targeted services, we addressed urgent community needs, providing crucial support in areas like financial assistance, physical and mental health, and community integration.

Our work continues to span across Northampton and Wellingborough. This year there has been substantial increase in numbers of members getting involved in activities sharing and benefiting from time with each other. We continue to create great support and positive volunteering opportunities focussing on vulnerable people in the local communities especially with setting local self help groups run and managed by volunteers, which Dostiyo has been supporting as an infrastructure organisation.

Despite the hurdles, our commitment to serving and uplifting our community has only strengthened, allowing us to continue making a meaningful impact in these difficult times. Below is the report of the year:

❖ MILAP GROUP (Wellingborough)

‘Milap’ group has entered its 12th year and going from strength to strength, the group is managed and run by Volunteers and service users with support from Dostiyo Staff. Currently the group is an Unincorporated Constituted group and is pleased to report that the group has applied to charity commission to register as a Charity status.

RANGE OF SERVICES :

The Group meets twice a week at Victoria centre. The wellbeing services offer people in the community a safe and comfortable environment to be themselves and ask for any help they need. The group is open to all gender and currently have 40 members including 34 women and 6 men. Atleast 24 members attend regular on a weekly basis.

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What we managed to do :

Opened the group to everyone in the community, so now we have a great mix of members from all communities encouraging cultural integration.

Focusing on ‘Physical. Mental Health and Wellbeing’, regular physical activity, mental stimulation games and board games. Volunteers organised and managed activities by making it fun and memorable for members and provide opportunity for social networking to befriend each other in & out of the group setting.

Organised variety of activities including word and card games, word search, bingo, laughter therapy sessions, dance through cancer, sessions in partnership with NNC & WNC adult learning including air fryer courses learn to crochet, bag decorating.

Network and link with other organisations such as ‘Food sharers’ , ‘Eco Group’ ‘Wellingborough forum’ ‘Victoria Centre’ ‘Glamis Hall’ these organisations offer clothing & food that can be shared with our members. We worked in partnership with Northamptonshire Sport and got one of our volunteer Pusha Patel trained as keep fit instructor, we aim for more volunteers take up these opportunities.

The Group did fundraise for the Victoria Centre (who were in financial difficulties) by holding a Navratri celebration event on 16/10/2023. The members raised £300 and donated to Victoria centre.

Attendance for group is gradually growing and have recruited 11 new members since last year

The group also celebrated birthdays of members throughout the year, members felt very special as many live on their own with little input from families.

The steering group is always looking ways to secure funding for the rent, also to develop further services to responds to the needs of our members.

WELLINGBOROUGH ‘ MILAP’ USERS EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES MONITORING 2023 – 2024

Ethnicity 18- 59 60+ Disability Numbers
Bangladeshi 2 Mental Health 5
Indian 8 12 Heart problem 3
Pakistani 1 Hearing and Sight 3
Afro
Caribbean		 2 4 Mobility 6
African 1 2 Age
related
problems		 23
White English 4 4
TOTAL 17 23

Funding:

We received £2000.00 funding from National Grid Western Power for Electric Blankets, throws, warm food tubs, hot water bottles and many other items to help our members through winter.

These grants are accounted for in Milap Group Accounts.

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THERE IS STILL A GREAT NEED TO CONTINUE

Members are struggling to eat a healthy diet and keep warm (winter) due to increase in cost of living. We feel there is a need to develop further support such as:

Feedback from Participant:

“I felt more relaxed, energised, and connected, and have had positive impact not only on my mental health but overall well-being. Thank you so much for your support, without this support I would have been lonely and didn’t feel like doing anything.”

❖ ‘SAHELI’ GROUP (NORTHAMPTON)

Since the formation of Saheli group it continues to provide a very strong, sound and consistent platform to befriend and support to over 50 Asian older and disabled women. These women have more than one medical conditions, some of them have recovered or are recovering from serious illnesses. During the two-day group sessions Saheli provides a platform to forge new friendships befriend those who fall in dire circumstances. There has been remarkable improvement in their mental and physical health because of the social interaction and emotional warmth. They feel less lonely and depressed, much happier, motivated and valued. All members are encouraged and empowered to take an active part in group discussions which has given them the opportunities to build their self-confidence, self-esteem and rekindled their dormant skills in planning, organising and implementing their decisions.

Volunteers managing the project are encouraged to be involved in leading and developing the project. They feel more in control and sense of and ownership of the activities, through their contribution to the project design, delivery and development. The Saheli project demonstrates just how important their existence is. The absolute importance cultural protection alongside integration opportunities in wider groups. It further demonstrated how exercise is understood to help both physical and mental stability, but without a safe space (that enables those to remain fully clothed including head scarves) then this would not be an opportunity. The women recognised how detrimental this would be to not only themselves, but their wider family networks.

Building on the infrastructural development with the Saheli women’s group will ensure schemes such as community fridge, community cafe, service design and the addressing of everchanging disproportionality of challenges facing new and existing communities in Northampton are sustained and addressed.

The Saheli Group would like to thank the Reaching Communities-The National Lottery and Sarah Kent for the funding and support provided throughout the Saheli Women’s Project duration.

❖ COMMUNITY FRIDGE:

The community fridge initiative aims to reduce food waste and support those in need by providing a shared space for donated food. Dostiyo Community Fridge is accessible to everyone and our fridges are stocked with surplus items from Co-op, Lidl and Aldi. People

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in the community are encouraged to take what they need, ensuring that no one goes hungry while minimising food waste.

Saheli group volunteers help maintain the fridge, ensuring cleanliness and safety. The project promotes a spirit of generosity and solidarity, fostering connections among neighbours while addressing food insecurity and environmental concerns. Community fridges play a vital role in building stronger, more resilient communities and is hoping to develop into a warm space, community café as future aspiration.

In year 2023-24, Total of 2500 kg of Food has been rescued and redistributed with nearly 50-60 people very week.

❖ DAYCARE AND WELLBEING ACTIVITIES :

At Dostiyo Day Care Services, our mission is to empower elderly members of our community to live independently while thriving to their fullest potential. Our goal is to assist individuals in maintaining, enhancing, and relearning essential life skills and social abilities, enabling them to engage in everyday activities with confidence and dignity.

We cater to the specific needs of elderly individuals, including those with physical disabilities, mental health conditions, or dementia, ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.

Our Services Include:

Referrals to the Dostiyo Day Centre are received from a range of healthcare professionals, including social prescribers. However, a significant portion of our referrals comes through word-of-mouth, underscoring the strong community trust and reputation we have established.

Educational Courses and Strategic Partnerships

In collaboration with the NNC and WNC Adult Learning teams, we offer a diverse range of educational courses throughout the year. These courses provide our members with the opportunity to develop new skills, form meaningful friendships, and alleviate feelings of isolation. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding our mathematics courses, which have proven exceptionally popular.

Over the past year, we have recruited a substantial number of new members because of these successful programs.

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Trips

Dostiyo has a tradition of arranging short and long trips for the members at a very competitive price.

Our seaside trip to Weymouth and Bournemouth was a huge success and our members have always supported these trips in large numbers. After Covid our first self-funded residential holiday to Majorca was well attended by 20 people.

Volunteer Help and Activities

The Centre is grateful for the services of its Volunteers, whose commitment and time, freely given, greatly assists the work of our staff. Thanks also to other staff, supporters, and the community, who enable us to continue with our much-needed service.

This year more than 45 volunteers have been actively involved supporting the group activities, befriending, emotional support, or checking in on people, and your efforts have proved to be invaluable. The relevant support worker provided much needed supervision to enable the volunteers to gain much needed valuable experience in administrative duties and through their active participation supporting service users they acquired people and communication skills. This opened the gates to explore opportunities in paid employment. Last year the volunteers supported nearly 3600 volunteering hours at Dostiyo

Celebratory Events

We observe all important cultural events at Dostiyo which have always ensured good attendances and interest. We provide regular weekly physical activity and variety of other activities and workshops. Some of the health-related activities we have provided over the past year include:

NORTHAMPTON’SAHELI’ GROUP USERS EQUAL OPPS MONITORING 2023 – 2024

Ethnicity 18- 59 60+ Disability Numbers
Bangladeshi 12 5 Mental Health 7
Indian 5 65 Heart problem 13
Pakistani 2 20 Hearing and Sight 2
Other 3 Mobility 32
Age
related
problems		 52
TOTAL 19 90

NORTHAMPTON: Day Care Activities 1[st] April 2023 - 31[st] March 2024

DATE ACTIVITIES
20thApril – 11 May 2023 Air fryer Cookery classes by Rashmita/ Hazel Adult
Learning
2nd– 23rdMay 2023 Beginners Computer classes by Judy/ Hazel Adult
Learning
13th- 11th- July 2023 Air Fryer Cookery classes by Rashmita/Hazel Adult
Learning
7thSeptember – 19thOctober
2023		 Everyday Math’s and Dress making by Janet/Hazel
Adult Learning
2ndNovember – 14thDecember
2023		 Arts and Crafts Advanced Quilling and Neuro arts by
Jennifer/ Hazel Adult Learning

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1stFebruary-15thFebruary 2024 Jewellery making by Judy/ Hazel Adult Learning
29thFebruary–28thMarch 2024 ¾ Sleeve Tunic top by Nicola/ Hazel Adult Leaning
2ndMarch–23rdMay 2024 IT classes for beginners by Judy/ Hazel Adult learning
April 2023-March 2024

10.00am-12.00pm		 ESOL every Monday
11am-12.00pm Keep Fit Class every Wednesday
12.00pm-1.00pm Wellbeing Café Every Wednesday
11am–1.00 pm Community Fridge Every Wednesday
11am–12.00 pm Yoga /Bollywood dance classes every Thursday
12pm–2.00 pm Various workshops and classes
11am–1.00 pm Community Fridge Every Thursday
Training

12thSeptember 2023- 15th
September2023		 Trilogy Sports Leadership Course
Celebrations
15/2/2023 Valentines’day
15/ 3/2023 Mother’s Day
26/4/2023 Eid Party
18/09/2023 Wellbeing Day Celebrations in partnership with
Trilogy Active at Weston Favell Centre Northampton
12/10/2023 Navratri Celebrations
22/11/2023 Diwali Party
Trips
28/7/2023 Weymouth Sea Side Day Trip
02/07/2023–08/07/2023 Self funded 7 day Holiday to Majorca
23/8/2023 Bournemouth Sea Side Day Trip

❖ ESOL CLASSES

We have continued to offer weekly English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes at both basic and intermediate levels. These classes are conducted in partnership with Adult Learning, which provides a qualified tutor, alongside our dedicated volunteer tutor.

Our learners are highly motivated to improve their language skills, and the classes provide not only educational benefits but also an opportunity to build friendships and integrate into the local community. This supportive environment fosters both personal and social development, empowering participants to engage more confidently in their everyday lives.

❖ Black Women’s Domestic Abuse Group (BWDAG)

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting women in need, Dostiyo is an active member of the Black Women’s Domestic Abuse Group (BWDAG), a coalition of organisations dedicated to supporting Black women who have experienced domestic abuse. Our committee meets every two months to coordinate efforts, organise events, and stay updated on both national and local developments. The group’s mission is to improve access to services and remove the barriers that Black women face when seeking support for domestic abuse.

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On March 2nd, we celebrated International Women’s Day with a successful brunch event at the University of Northampton. The event featured guest speakers, an artist, and ample networking opportunities. We are planning further events this year to continue our efforts. BWDAG remains “United to make all women’s voices heard,” with Dostiyo working alongside partners such as Creating Equalz, Eve, NDAS, NREC, Northants Police, and Power of the Mind.

❖ Mayor’s Fund for the Housebound

This year marked our fourth participation in the Mayor’s Fund for the Housebound initiative, through which a £30 gift and a Christmas card from the Mayor were personally delivered to 20 of our most vulnerable service users. The recipients, all residents of Northampton, met strict criteria, including being isolated, housebound, and living in their own homes. We are proud to be part of this initiative, and the heartfelt appreciation from those who received the gifts speaks to the positive impact it has on the community.

❖ Vodafone Everyone Connected Initiative

We were fortunate to partner with Vodafone’s “Everyone Connected” initiative, which provided free SIM cards for our clients and volunteers. These SIM cards have been instrumental in helping clients access online systems, manage their Benefits, search for employment, and stay connected with friends and family, thereby improving their overall well-being. The initiative has also benefitted children by enabling them to complete homework and improve their digital skills, alongside various other advantages.

❖ WNC Household Support Fund

We were privileged to once again participate in the distribution of supermarket vouchers through the Household Support Fund, in collaboration with the Northamptonshire Community Foundation. This initiative provided eligible households with a £120 supermarket voucher to assist with essential living costs. In total, we distributed 136 vouchers to households across Northampton, providing crucial relief to families during a difficult financial period.

❖ ADVOCACY and ADVICE:

Although Dostiyo have had challenges in securing funding for the Advice Work, but we have managed to provide advocacy/advice in Wellingborough and Northampton.

Throughout the year, we have continued to provide confidential advice and support services to our clients through a range of channels, including face-to-face consultations, online, and telephone support. Many of our clients face significant challenges, including physical disabilities, mental health issues, and socioeconomic hardships. A considerable portion of our service users are carers or single parents, and the majority come from low-income households.

We have played a key role in assisting clients during their transition to Universal Credit (UC) from legacy benefits such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Tax Credits. This transition process has required substantial, in-depth support, particularly as many clients face barriers such as limited digital skills, language difficulties, or a lack of confidence in navigating the complex online system. We have assisted clients in setting up email accounts, submitting online claims, and maintaining their UC journals. Given the upcoming issuance of Tax Credit Migration notices, we anticipate a significant increase in demand for these services in the coming year.

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The ongoing cost of living crisis has intensified financial pressures on our clients, many of whom are struggling to meet basic needs such as paying bills and providing food for their families. In response, we have referred clients to food banks and connected them with our in house resources such as the Dostiyo Community Fridge. Additionally, we have conducted thorough benefit checks to ensure clients are receiving their full entitlements and have provided assistance with claims for various welfare benefits.

We have also extended support to clients with no recourse to public funds, including individuals on Care Worker Visas. These clients often face precarious situations, having spent significant amounts to relocate to the UK, only to find the jobs promised by care companies have not materialised. As a result, many are forced to take on low-wage, temporary work such as cleaning, simply to survive, and their housing situation is often inadequate. Their circumstances are extremely complex, and they face severe destitution with limited external support. To address this, we provide them with a safe, non-judgmental space to share their concerns, offer access to supermarket food, and encourage participation in our wellbeing activities.

Our Advocacy workers submitted Attendance Allowance claims have been successful and clients have gained £108.55 weekly. On top of this those who were not getting Pension Credit PC, were able to get it as they had been given Severe Disability Premium of £81.55 weekly. Since the Winter Fuel Payment has been stopped – those who are not on Pension Credit are looking for someone to help with benefit check and claim Pension Credit.

We have been supporting people to maximise their income, access relevant grants and welfare benefits they may be entitled to. A person may present with one problem at first, but we then unravel that they require support in many areas. It is a holistic service that we provide, to enable the individual to be empowered, and to prevent problems from escalating further.

STATISTICS FOR 2023 – 2024 NORTHAMPTON and WELLINGBOROUGH

National Origin Number Female Male Linguistic Background
Bangladeshi 125 110 15 Bengali
Indian 92 81 11 Gujarati, Hindi, and Punjabi
Pakistani 17 14 3 Urdu
Other 13 12 1 Dari, English, Pashto,
Somali
Total 247 217 30

BREAKDOWN OF SERVICE DELIVERY NORTHAMPTONSHIRE 2023 – 2024

SERVICES PROVIDED NUMBERS
Community Care 22
Advice one off 313
Debt 42
Disability 37
Domestic Abuse 22
ESOL 48
Household Support Fund Voucher 136
Housing 78
Mayor’s Fund for Housebound 20
Mental Health 83
Welfare Benefits Casework 487
Other 78

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CASE STUDIES

(1) We have been providing ongoing support to a mother and her adult daughter who recently relocated to Northampton after experiencing domestic abuse, particularly financial and psychological abuse, as well as controlling behaviour. The family was referred to us by Northamptonshire Domestic Abuse Service (NDAS), which has also been actively involved in their support. Working in partnership with NDAS, we facilitated their participation in the Domestic Abuse Recovery Toolkit program, delivered through 10 online sessions via Zoom.

Both mother and daughter have significantly benefitted from the program, developing greater self-awareness and confidence. Additionally, we were able to assist the family by issuing a Household Support Fund supermarket voucher, and we continue to provide them with advocacy services to address their ongoing needs.

(2) One of our clients, who has been battling long-term depression, relies heavily on her husband and children for assistance with daily tasks due to her lack of motivation and struggles with insomnia. There are days when it is challenging for her to get out of bed or even get dressed. We supported her in applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which was successfully awarded, offering her some financial relief.

Despite her struggles, we encourage her to engage in our well-being activities, which help reduce her isolation. This year, she was able to join us on a day trip to the seaside with her children, marking a significant positive step in her journey.

(3) A client caring for her disabled adult son was finding it increasingly difficult to manage his growing care needs. Overwhelmed with anxiety and emotionally drained, she reached out for support. In response, we liaised with the local authority on her behalf and advocated for an increase in her son’s formal care package.

Following our intervention, his care support was successfully enhanced, providing the client with much-needed respite. This development has had a positive impact on the entire family, offering the mother valuable time for rest and improving the overall family dynamic.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE USERS EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES MONITORING 2023- 2024

Ethnicity 18- 59 60+
Bangladeshi 281 144
Indian 476 332
Pakistani 82 91
Mauritius 8 7
West Indies 2 3
Afghan 11 -
Other 72 48
Total 932 625

GENDER STATISTICS 2023-2024

Female Male
916 641

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❖ WAY FORWARD:

I would like to extend our gratitude to:

In conclusion, this year has been one of growth, resilience, and positive impact for our centre. Through the collective efforts of our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members, we have successfully implemented key programs, expanded services, and fostered stronger connections within our community. While challenges remain, we are committed to continuously improving and adapting to meet the evolving needs of those we serve.

Looking ahead, we are excited to build on our successes and explore new opportunities to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families in our community.

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Accounting Policies:

Legal form

Dostiyo is an unincorporated charity registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Its registered address is 62-66 Dunster Street, Northampton, NN1 3JY.

Basis of Accounting

The charity is a public benefit entity and the financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice Charities SORP (FRS 102), issued in January 2019, and applicable UK Accounting Standards and the Charities Act 2011.

No material uncertainties exist in relation to going concern.

Incoming Resources

All incoming resources are recognised once the charity has entitlement, probability of receipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability.

Investment income is recognised on a receivable basis.

Donations received and organised trips are credited on the statement of financial activities in the year to which they relate. Donated services and facilities are included as income and expenditure where the amounts are reasonably quantifiable and measurable.

Grants received are recognised using the performance model.

Resourses Expended

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure is allocated on the statement of financial activities between restricted and unrestricted funds. Expenditure that is directly attributable to specific activities has been included in these cost categories. Where costs are attributable to more than one activity they have been apportioned across the cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of these resources

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.

Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting constitutional and statutory requirements of the charity and the management of its assets.

Fixed Assets

Tangible fixed assets are shown at cost less depreciation.

Depreciation is calculated to write off their cost or valuation less their estimated residual value over their expected useful lives as follows:

Freehold property 25 years straight-line basis Computer equipment 25% reducing balance Other equipment 25% reducing balance Motor vehicles 25% reducing balance

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Fund Accounting

Funds held by the charity are either:

Unrestricted General Funds – funds, which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

Designated Funds – funds set aside by the Executive Committee out of unrestricted funds for specific future purposes or projects.

Restricted Funds – funds that can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanations of the nature and purpose of each fund are included in the notes to the financial statements.

Financial Instruments

Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and in hand and short term deposits with an original maturity date of three months or less.

Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income under administrative expenses.

Financial liabilities are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into.

Where the contractual obligations of financial instruments are equivalent to a similar debt instrument, those financial instruments are classed as financial liabilities. Financial liabilities are presented as such in the balance sheet. Finance costs and gains or losses relating to financial liabilities are included in the profit and loss account. Finance costs are calculated so as to produce a constant rate of return on the outstanding liability.

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DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Pag8 18 Total Total 2024 Unrestricted Restricted 2023 Notes Unrestricted Restricted Income from: Donations and Legacies Charitable Activities Investment Income Total Income 1,412 49,456 1,839 52,707 1,412 134,795 1,839 138,046 1,570 1,570 17,615 123,267 140,882 633 633 19,818 123,267 143,085 85,339 85,339 Expenditure on: Raising Funds Charitable Activities Other Total Expenditure 63,573 97,776 161,349 26,943 119,771 146,714 63,573 97,776 161,349 26,943 119,771 146,714 Net Incomel(expenditure) Transfers between funds (10,866) (12,437) (23,303) 9,616 (9,616) (7,125) 105 3,496 (3,629) (105) Net movement in funds (1,250) (22,053) (23,303) (7,020) 3,391 (3,629) Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward 152,609 50,900 203,509 159,629 47,509 207,138 Total funds carried forward 151,359 28,847 180,206 152,609 50,900 203,509 All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities The statement of financial activities include all gains and losses recognised during the year

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 MARCH 2024 Page 19 Notes 2024 2023 Fixed Assets Tangible Assets 34,956 45,180 Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Funds Held by CVS 15,732 130,423 2,784 148,939 1,892 137,229 21,591 160,712 Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year (3,689) (2,383) (3,689) (2,383) Net Current Assetsl(Liabilities) 145,250 158,329 Net Assetsl(Liabilities) 180,206 203,509 Charity Funds Unrestricted Funds General Reserve Designated funds - Other 46,600 104,759 37,692 114,917 151,359 28,847 152,609 50,900 Restricted funds 180,206 The accounts have been prepared in accordance with SORP (FRS102) effective January 2019 and relevant UK Accounting standards. Approved by the Executive Committee on 1911112024 and signed on their behalf by: 203,509 AROY Chairperson

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 20 Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023 Income from Charitable Activities Grants: Western Power WNC- Wellbeing Fund Awards 4 All - Community Fridge North Northamptonshire Council Commsortia - Working Progress (NEP) Neighbourly B&Q Hubbub Foundation - Community Fridge Lloyds Bank Foundation National Grid NCF- Povety Hurts DOSTIYO Community Fridge NCF - Constance Travis Trust Community Justice Fund Nationwide Colleague Grant Comic Relief Womens Resource Centre Lottery Community Fund - Saheli Women's Group NCF- HSF4 Hubbub Investment Fund Neighbourly Community Fridge Organised Trips Other 2,461 3,865 9,440 6,080 5,819 5,000 9,999 9,999 1,000 1,000 25,000 7,592 25,000 7,592 2,962 2,990 2,990 2,950 2,950 12,196 5,975 230 47,807 4,286 5,000 500 5,975 230 4,000 47,807 77,524 4,286 5.000 500 16,601 2,160 4,865 9,375 85,339 134,795 140,882 16,601 4,865 49,456 Charitable Activities Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023 Staff costs Depreciation Other costs 26,878 10,165 22,262 59,305 3,220 1,048 63,573 63,996 90,874 96,448 59 10,224 10,246 22,348 44,610 24,651 86,403 145,708 131,345 7,668 10,888 10,987 3,705 4,753 4,382 97,776 161,349 146,714 Support Costs - Staffing Support Costs - Other Other costs include Independent Examination fee of £1,320 Staff Costs 2024 2023 Wages dnd salaries NIER ER Pensiun DBS Checks 97,925 102,548 2,054 2,9ti9 1,783 1,918 101,762 107,435

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 21 Average number employed by head count Centre Management and administration No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year. No trustees received any remuneration during the year. Trustee indemnity insurance paid in the year amounted to £nil. (2023: £nil). Trustees received reimbursed expenses for travel and other costs amounting to £nil (2023:£nil) Fixed Assets Freehold Minibus Computer Other Property Equipment Equipmenl Total Cost Brought forward Additions Disposals Carried forward 280,939 13,480 4,973 299.392 280,939 13,480 4,973 299,392 Depreciation Brought forward Charge for year Disposals Carried forward 236,022 10,158 13,244 59 4,946 254,212 7 10,224 246,180 13,303 4,953 264,436 Net Book Value Balance at 31.03.24 34,759 177 20 34,956 Balance at 01.04.23 44,917 236 27 45,180 Included in freehold property is land with an estimated cost of £27,000 to which depreciation is not being applied in accordance with relevant accounting standards. Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2023 Debtors Sundry Debtors Prepayments 14,999 14,999 733 15,732 1,264 628 1,892 733 733 14,999 Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Sundry creditors Accruals Deferred Income (2,064) (1,625) (2,064) (683) (1,625) (1,700) (3,689) (3,689) (2,383)

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 22 Opening Closing Balance Incoming Outgoing Balance 01.04.23 Resources Resources Transfers 31.03.24 Designated Funds Freehold Property General reserve Designated-Propety Repair & Maintenar Designated-communications & IT Equipi Designated-Fixtures & Fittings 44,917 37,692 50,000 15,000 5,000 152,609 (10,158) (53,415) 34,759 9,616 46,600 50,000 15,000 5,000 9,616 151,359 52,707 52,707 (63,573) The balance on the designated fund represents the net book value of the freehold property held by the charity. The intention is to generate a general reserve of six months running costs. Designated - Property R&M - Provision for repairs and maintenance to the building Designated - Communications & IT Equip - Provision for upgrading communications & IT equipment Designated - Fixtures & Fittings - Provision for replacement or upgrading fixtures & fittings Comparative Designated Funds Opening Closing Balance Incoming Outgoing Balance 01.04.22 Resources Resources Transfers 31.03.23 Designated Funds Freehold Property General reserve Designated-Property Repair & Maintenar Designated-communications & IT Equipr Designated-Fixtures & Fittings 55,075 54,554 30,000 15,000 5,000 159,629 (10,158) 44,917 (16,785) (19,895) 37,692 20,000 50,000 15,000 5,000 105 152,609 19,818 19,818 (26,943) Restricted Funds Opening Closing Balance Incoming Outgoing Balance 01.04.23 Resources Resources Transfers 31.03.24 Advice UK NCF - Constance Travis Trust National Grid - Community Matters Neighbourly- Community Fridge Hubbub Foundation Lottery Community Fund - Saheli Womer Awards 4 All - Community Fridge Neighbourly- B&Q Western Power Distribution Community Justice Fund Nationwide Colleague Grant Comic Relief- Womens Resource Centri Northamptonshire Sport rqcF - Poverty Hurts Hubbub Investment Fund NCF- HSF4 176 (59) (2,950) (5,038) (2,400) 117 2,950 7,592 500 1,000 47,807 9,999 154 500 (1,000) (65,459) (7,374) (1,507) (2,816) 34,476 9,450 8.492 2,660 1,000 8,129 156 1,000 (8,131) (556) (230) (1,497) (2,962) (1,285) (4,286) (97,776) (9,616) 28,847 5,975 230 5,419 1,497 2,962 5,000 4,286 85,339 3,715 50,900

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 23 Advice UK - To employ advocacy workers providing advice and support to the Asian community under the age of 60 years old, and to purchase equipment NCF - Constance Travis Trust - Towards the cost of providing a Welfare benefits advisor National Grid - Community Matters - To offer a community warm space and equipment for those in tl local community struggling with heating their homes in the cold seasons Neighbourly- Community Fridge - Towards community fridge costs Hubbub Foundation - To provide a community fridge for the local community Lottery Community Fund - Saheli Women's Group- to enable more people from the BME population to access health and wellbeing services Awards 4 All - Community Fridge - To provide a community fridge for users to take free food & provi( cooking sessions to show how to cook on a budget. Neighbourly B&Q - Towards refurbishment costs Western Power Distribution - Supporting individuals to access support with fuel payments to combat fuel povety Community Justice Fund - To fund a part-time member of staff during the pandemic Nationwide Colleague Grant- Towards the cost of hampers for day to day essentials and a wellbing cafè providing a safe, warm place to meet. Comic Relief- Womens Resource Centre - Support to continue providing crucial services for South Asian Women including Advocacy, Advice, Support, Guidance and information. Northamptonshire Sport - To provide keep fit sessions for the community. NCF - Poverty Hurts - Towards cost of living & poverty advice service NCF - HSF4 - Wraparound support service to contine the delivery of HSF vouchers Fund transfers relate to overhead costs as per grant agreements Comparative Restricted Funds Opening Closing Balance Incoming Outgoing Balance 01.04.22 Resources Resources Transfers 31.03.23 Advice UK NCF - Saheli Womens Group BBO - Working Progress WNC- Wellbeing Fund Hubbub Foundation Lottery Community Fund - Saheli Womei Awards 4 All - Community Fridge Neighbourly- B&Q Western Power Distribution Community Justice Fund NCF- Food Aid Fund Comic Relief- Womens Resource Ceiitri Northamptonshire Sport NCF- Poverty Hurts 255 115 1,689 (79) 176 (115) 5,819 3,865 (7,508) (3,865) (2,742) (64,137) (9,440) (2,340) (2,461) (21,217) (1,982) (4,000) 2,742 21,089 77,524 9,440 5,000 2,461 12,196 34,476 2,660 1,000 8,129 1,000 17,150 1,972 10 4,000 1,497 1,497 2,962 2,962 47,509 123,267 (119,771) (105) 50,900 NCF - COVID Respoiise - To provide helpliiie support an(1 additional costs due to the pandeniic ROSA- COVID Response Fund - To provide helpline support and additional costs due to the pandemic Sport England - To purchase aiid install ventilation systeiii and upgradt? tlie toilet facilities

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 24 Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds Fund balances at 31 March 2024 are represented by: General Designated Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds Tangible fixed assets Current Assets Current Liabilities 34,839 120,209 (3,689) 151,359 117 34,956 28,730 148,939 (3,689) 28,847 180,206 Fund balances at 31 March 2023 are represented by: General Designated Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds Tangible fixed assets Current Assets Current Liabilities 45,004 109,825 (2,220) 152,609 176 45,180 50,887 160,712 (163) (2,383) 50,900 203,509 10 Ultimate Controlling Party e charity is under the ultimate control of its Executive Committee, whose names are shown at the front of the financial statements. 11 Related party transactions ere were no related party transactions during the year or prior year.

DOSTIYO ASIAN WOMEN AND GIRLS ORGANISATION INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page 25 2024 2023 Income Grants Receivable Donations and gifts Investment income Organised Trips Other Income 113,329 1,412 1,839 16,601 4,865 138,046 129,347 1,570 633 2,160 9.375 143,085 Expenditure Centre Running Costs Salaries Depreciation of freehold propety Depreciation of motor vehicles Depreciation of equipment Motor and travel expenses Organised Trips Other project expenses Heating and lighting Hall hire Repairs and renewals - equipment Repairs and renewals - premises Cleaning 76,866 10,158 80,695 10,158 97 16,097 7,721 5,636 434 1,710 9,368 3,943 5,826 2,897 4,135 2,220 2,892 4,924 Support Costs Salaries Printing, postage and stationery Telephone Insurance 10,888 659 2,570 1,524 10,987 813 1,697 1,872 Governance Costs Salaries Depreciation of computer equipment Bank charges Professional fees ind accountancy Mdnagement expenses ind,AGM 10,888 59 137 5,184 10,987 79 105 3,773 48 (161,349) (146,714) Surplusl(Deficlt) for the Year 23,303) (3,629)

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/
members of		 Charity Name
Dostiyo Asian Women and Girls Organisation
On accounts for the year
ended		 31stMarch 2024
Charity no
(if any)		 1058077
Set out on pages (remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets) (remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets)

Report to the trustees/ Charity Name members of Dostiyo Asian Women and Girls Organisation

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 31/03/2024.

Responsibilities and As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the basis of report accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

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.

Signed: L. Howard Date: 20/11/2024
Name: Lucie Howard
Relevant professional
qualification(s) or body
(if any):		 Association of Accounting Technicians
MAAT
Address: 3-4 Britten’s Court, Clifton Reynes
Olney

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MK46 5LG

Section B Disclosure

Only complete if the examiner needs to highlight material matters of concern (see CC32, Independent examination of charity accounts: directions and guidance for examiners).

Give here brief details of any items that the examiner wishes to disclose .

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our independent examination work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity’s trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an independent examiner’s report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our independent examination work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

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