## **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** 

1 



##  **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|



2 



 Introduction   

- Dostiyo is a voluntary organisation run by and for Asian women and men and is governed by a signed Constitution. Over the past 47 years Dostiyo has become established as a 

- —__—__—— service provider predominantly for Asian women in Northamptonshire and is gradually expanding both in number of workers and services provided. 

- The organisation has provided services to local Asian women and communities offering support and advice on a wide range of issues. It actively works towards enabling full participation of Asian women and men in social activities and overcome cultural, religious, physical and social barriers. It addresses the needs of local Asian women and girls in a relaxed and friendly manner in a sensitive, confidential and safe environment. 

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: 

- Older People’s Project, which facilitates group activities and provides advocacy, advice and support to Asian women and men and/or their families. 

- Welfare Advice on issues such as benefits, pension, housing, appeals 

- ▪ Supporting people into Employment, Education and Training by offering a specialist tailored package to unemployed adults 

- Mental Health Support including Advocacy, Benefits Advice and promote independent living. 

- Weekly Wellbeing café’s in Northampton and Wellingborough. 

- Community Fridge 

- Day Care and various classes for the elderly and disabled women and men. 

- Opportunities to volunteers and gain training within Dostiyo and through external organisations. 

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. 

3 



##  **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:** 

- Attacking barriers of isolation that Asian communities experience; 

- Promoting access to services, transcending racial, religious, linguistic and cultural issues; 

- Promoting self-help, advocacy and information in the community; 

- Promoting the well being of women and their families; 

## **It does this by:** 

- Providing services to women and men of all ages. 

- Targeting its services to those who have the greatest needs. 

- Promoting equality of opportunity within the organisation and through partnerships. 

- Valuing staff and volunteers and opening new avenues of thinking and creating opportunities for Asian women to become financially independent. 

## **Dostiyo provides services in varied areas:** 

-  Clinical Negligence 

-  Community Care 

-  Education 

-  Wellbeing Cafe 

-  Employment Support 

-  Welfare Benefits 

-  Workshops and Training 

- Family 

- Housing 

- Mental Health Support 

- Befriending Service 

- Older People 

-        Volunteering 

-        One to One Support 

-        Community Fridge 


4 



## **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 

5 



##   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..................... 

6 



  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 :** 

- Encourage and enhance independent living 

- Living with safety measures in place 

- Promoting independent living 

- Encouraging members to befriend other members outside the group 

- Guidance and advice for welfare benefits and sign posting 

- Supporting them to participate in the wider community 

- Supporting members to learn new skills (i.t. or mobile phones) 

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. 

7 



**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<br>Caribbean|2|4|Mobility|6|
|African|1|2|Age<br>related<br>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. 

8 



## **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: 

- 1) Welfare Calls (members not well living on their own) 

- 2) Donation of Food Hampers and essentials 

- 3) Target support on Cost of Living Criss 

## **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 

9 



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:** 

- **Day Support & Activities** : A wide variety of engaging activities such as keep fit, Zumba, dance classes, yoga and more, all tailored to the individual needs of our service users. 

- **Specialised Care for the Vulnerable Elderly** : Focused support for seniors with complex needs, helping them maintain a high quality of life within their community. 

- **Skill Development & Personal Growth** : Providing opportunities to acquire new skills, explore new lifestyles, and maximize personal potential. 

- **Health & Wellbeing Initiatives** : A variety of workshops and programs designed to promote health and wellness among our members. 

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. 

10 



**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<br>related<br>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<br>Learning|
|2nd– 23rdMay 2023|Beginners Computer classes by Judy/ Hazel Adult<br>Learning|
|13th- 11th- July 2023|Air Fryer Cookery classes by Rashmita/Hazel Adult<br>Learning|
|7thSeptember – 19thOctober<br>2023|Everyday Math’s and Dress making by Janet/Hazel<br>Adult Learning|
|2ndNovember – 14thDecember<br>2023|Arts and Crafts Advanced Quilling and Neuro arts by<br>Jennifer/ Hazel Adult Learning|



11 



||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||
||<br>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||
||<br>12thSeptember 2023- 15th<br>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<br>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. 

12 



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. 

13 



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,<br>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|



14 



## **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|



15 



## ❖ **WAY FORWARD:** 

- ➢ Develop culturally sensitive outreach strategies to connect with marginalised Asian communities through community events, workshops, and social media. 

- ➢ **Strengthen Community Engagement:** Develop more programs that encourage active participation and cultural exchange, ensuring representation from all age groups. 

- ➢ **Enhance Advocacy Efforts:** Increase support to address issues of discrimination, access to services, and community welfare 

- ➢ Providing facilities and services reflecting the welfare of the local community and continuing to promote friendship, well being and improve economic, social, mental and physical wellbeing 

- ➢ Improvement in listening to the voice of the service user and co-production – work with them and do what the service users say they need and want 

- ➢ Exploring ways to incorporate Social Enterprise model within self help groups through developing community café 

- ➢ Explore and expand Community Fridge as well as recreational indoor/outdoor activities, arts/crafts, outings and residential trips. 

- ➢ Strengthen the charity's infrastructure to accommodate a growing client base and provide efficient support. 

I would like to extend our gratitude to: 

- All the members and users of Dostiyo who make us what we are and continue to place their trust and faith in us; 

- The Management Committee members who are volunteers for their valuable time, knowledge, experience and guidance; 

- Volunteers and Steering Group members of Zindagani Mens Group, Sakhi Milap, Milap and Saheli Group 

- All the staff for their commitment towards the aims and objectives of Dostiyo; 

- Dedicated volunteers for their constant help and support. 

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. 

16 



## **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 

17 



**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. 

18 



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/**<br>**members of**|Charity Name<br>Dostiyo Asian Women and Girls Organisation||
|---|---|---|
||||
|**On accounts for the year**<br>**ended**|31stMarch 2024<br>**Charity no**<br>**(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: 

- the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or 

- the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or 

- the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. 

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**<br>**qualification(s) or body**<br>**(if any):**|Association of Accounting Technicians<br>MAAT|||
|||||
|**Address:**|3-4 Britten’s Court, Clifton Reynes|||
||Olney|||



1 



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. 

2