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2023-03-31-accounts

NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE

(COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

Company No. 3325597

Charity Registration No. 1061676

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED

31 MARCH 2023

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

C O N T E N T S
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT:
Chair’s report 2
Treasurer’s report 3
Expression of thanks 6
Report of the Board of Trustees 7
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
Statement of financial activities 16
Balance sheet 17
Notes to the accounts 18
Independent Examiner’s report 32

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

CHAIR’S REPORT

As Chair of the Board of Trustees of Noah's Ark Children's Venture, I am pleased to introduce our Annual Report for the year ending 31st March 2023, which sets out our charitable aims and objectives, the work we carry out, the services we provide, and most importantly tells you about the range of children, young people and adults who make use of our residential and outdoor facilities throughout the year. The opportunities we provide for those most in need of accessing our services at an affordable, or a minimal cost, remains our prime objective. Information about our user groups is given in the management report.

Our thanks also to the Friends of Macaroni Wood, and the wide range of charitable trusts listed in the report that have provided and continue to provide essential funds to maintain and develop our charity.

We remain grateful to the Ernest Cook Trust, the owners of Macaroni Wood, who lease this wonderful woodland site to us. Their wholehearted support over the years to help further our development and growth continues apace, and we look forward to continuing to consolidate this positive relationship in the future.

Finally, a huge thanks to all the trustees, volunteers, and friends of Macaroni Wood who donate their time and energies in so many ways that contributes so much to the organisation's success and development.

Caroline Newton Chair of the Board of Trustees

11 / 12 / 2023

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

TREASURER’S REPORT 2022 - 23

Results for the year

The Statement of Financial Activities set out in this Annual Report shows we have been investing in the infrastructure, both the physical and people at Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture (NACV).

The Charity had a net expenditure of £20,497, faring better than the previous years’ net expenditure of £56,211 as the trend of returning pre-Covid income levels continued, as can be seen from the table below.

----- Start of picture text -----
Income 2023 2022 2021 (peak covid) 2000 (pre-covid)
Grants and Donations £107,184 £83,837 £196,218 £84,396
Charitable Activities £73,595 £51,135 £11,138 £84,730
Other Trading £36,886 £26,702 £774 £29,647
Investments £260 £14 £38 £87
£216,925 £161,688 £208,168 £198,860
----- End of picture text -----

Our income generation activities are consistent with previous years, and in broad terms our income is generated from:

The income from activities not related to our primary purpose falls below the 25% small trading tax exemption limit for our income level.

To support groups who struggle to meet the cost of visiting the woods we have replenished the Dennis Hunter fund for disadvantaged groups after utilising £3,370 during the year.

We extend our gratitude to the legacy of Richard MacVicar for the continued support of £15,000 during the year, a legacy that continues to have a material impact on operations.

We would also like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the following grant making bodies who have supported us with grants and donations during the year.

Marsh Christian Trust, PF Charitable Trust, Ernest Cook Trust, National Lottery Awards for All, Arnold Clark Community Fund, Guiting Manor Amenity Trust, Leeds Building Society, The Langtree Trust, Four Winds Trust, Edward Gostling Foundation, Edgar E Lawley Foundation, George Henry Collins Charity, Hedley Foundation, Morrisons Foundation, Waitrose Community Matters, Alchemy Foundation, Leathersellers’ Company, Rowlands Trust,

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

TREASURER’S REPORT 2022 – 23 (Continued)

Ammco Charitable Trust, William A Cadbury Charitable Trust, Percy Bilton Charity, Woodroffe Benton Foundation, Luke Bitmead Foundation and the Bazley Estate.

Expenditure

Expenditure rose by £19,523 over the year before, this being a lower increase than the £27,658 suffered in the previous year. This increase is mainly due to:

In addition costs of £3,679 (£7,499) have been capitalised during the year (white goods and furniture). A fully depreciated minibus was sold during the year raising £2,111.

Reserves Policy

The trustees recognise the importance of maintaining appropriate levels of reserves in order to ensure the sustainability of the charity. In line with the recommendations and monitoring requirements of the Charity Commission the board has therefore allocated necessary amounts to the designated funds described below. Given the existence of these funds, the policy concerning general funds is simply to ensure that it stays in credit to the extent of £10,000 or thereabouts. Our balance sheet, at 31st March 2023 shows that we have net assets of £183,802 (2022 - £204,299). However, the greater proportion are designated funds, restricted grants, and reserve funds, as set out below:

General fund

Restricted fund

Designated fund

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

TREASURER’S REPORT 2022 – 23 (Continued)

Concluding comments

Thanks to the support of our generous grant making bodies and donors the woods continues to offer a fantastic space for children to be themselves and explore nature. Although there was a net outflow of during the year, we move into 2023/4 with higher levels of bookings than in the previous (covid) years, users the team look forward to welcoming on site.

A Hainsworth Treasurer

06 / 12 / 2023

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

EXPRESSION OF THANKS

The committee would like to thank our following recent supporters.

FUNDERS –

Marsh Christian Trust PF Charitable Trust Ernest Cook Trust National Lottery Awards for All Arnold Clark Community Fund Guiting Manor Amenity Trust Leeds Building Society The Langtree Trust Four Winds Trust Edward Gostling Foundation Edgar E Lawley Foundation George Henry Collins Charity Hedley Foundation Morrisons Foundation Waitrose Community Matters Alchemy Foundation Leathersellers’ Company Rowlands Trust Ammco Charitable Trust William A Cadbury Charitable Trust Percy Bilton Charity Woodroffe Benton Foundation Luke Bitmead Foundation The Bazely Estate

And all the Friends of Macaroni Wood who support our work with their generous donations.

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The members of the Board of Trustees, who are also directors for the purposes of company law, have pleasure in presenting their report and the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2023.

Reference and Administrative Details

Registered charity name Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture Company registration number 3325597 Registered office and Macaroni Wood Operational address Eastleach Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 3NF

The Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees who served the company during the period were as follows:

C Newton-Alfred (Chair) J R Eastham A Hainsworth J Davidson S Robinson E Wilson (resigned 7[th] June 2023) M Doyle (resigned 4[th] October 2022)

Secretary Mark Smyth Centre Manager Marcus Scrivens Business Lead Mark Smyth Independent Examiner Scott Lockwood Third Sector Accountancy Ltd Holyoake House, Manchester, M600AS.

Bankers Lloyds Bank Plc Castle Street, Cirencester Gloucestershire GL71QJ

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

OUR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Purposes and aims

Our charity’s purpose, as set out in the objects contained in the company’s memorandum of association, is:

‘The Charity's objects are restricted specifically only for the public benefit are the provision of facilities for the recreation and other leisure time occupation for children being facilities: (i) Of which children and others have need by reason of their youth, disability, poverty, or social and economic circumstances, (ii) Which will improve the conditions of life for such children and others by promoting their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing, and (iii) To assist in such ways as the charity trustees think fit, any charity, social care or education organisation in the United Kingdom whose aims include the advancing of education of persons under the age of 25 years in conservation protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment.’

Our aims, and what we have strived to achieve over the years, is to make Macaroni Wood a refuge for children and young people to escape the pressure of modern society. Children today face unprecedented demands on their young lives. Too often they are bullied into growing up too soon. It seems modern society doesn't want children to enjoy their own childhood. At school, they face the relentless demands of the exam system. At home, they are under siege from advertisers in search of young consumers. At Macaroni Wood, we feel this is too much, too soon. Our heartfelt belief is that children should be allowed to be children. That’s why we founded the Centre, giving children the time and freedom to be themselves. At Macaroni Wood children are free to explore and have fun. They are given responsibility to make their own decisions. They share time on their own terms. They are not hemmed in by boundaries. It is their space to express who they really are.

Macaroni Wood is a magical place to many people, and we have had many wonderful letters from youth workers, teachers and young people themselves testifying that a residential visit to the centre has had a positive and therapeutic impact on their lives. Our aims fully reflect the purposes that the charity was set up to further.

Children and young people from inner city areas relax away from the strains and stresses of urban city life and we notice, and many group leaders comment on how individual behaviour changes dramatically in a positive way during their stay at the Centre. Children and young people experience a sense of freedom often not possible in their home environments – being able to play outside without anxiety because the Centre is situated in a wood with no busy roads close by. A stay at the Centre encourages social responsibility – our visitors meet new people, have to work with them, learn new life skills such as cooking and looking after themselves and are encouraged to behave responsibly to the animals, equipment and the site in general. We seldom if ever have any occurrences of anti-social behaviour or vandalism.

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

OUR AIMS AND OBJECTIVES (continued)

Our charity operates a policy of helping all children and others irrespective of race, colour, creed, gender, and sexual orientation or physical or mental ability. We have always had and continue to maintain a strong commitment to working with groups who provide respite and care for those with special needs.

Our charity operates from the registered office in Gloucestershire provided at a peppercorn rent by The Ernest Cook Trust. The property has been converted for use by children and others, and, particularly, Castree House has been built for use by people with disabilities and their carers. Activities are available at the Centre including helping with the animals, structured woodland activities, adventure playground area, cycling and walking in the woods and, nearby many interesting educational, leisure, sporting and entertainment venues.

We work with a wide range of statutory and voluntary organisations and other charities that use our facilities at Macaroni Wood to provide therapeutic, educational and respite care to their individual clients. We aim to support them to the best of our ability to achieve their individual goals.

Ensuring our work delivers our aims

We review our aims, objectives and activities each year. This review looks at what we achieved and the outcomes of our work in the previous year. Part of this review is the monitoring of the feedback forms from user groups upon which we have acted and have bought new play equipment. This review helps us to ensure that our aims, objectives and activities remained focused on our stated purposes. We have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and objectives and in planning our future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives they have set.

The focus on our work

Our main objective for the year continued to be the provision of recreation and leisure facilities for children and other residents in Lewisham and elsewhere. The strategies we used to meet these objectives included:

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

HOW OUR ACTIVITIES DELIVER PUBLIC BENEFIT

Our main activities and who we aim to help are described below. All our charitable activities focus on the provision of recreation and leisure-time facilities at modest cost to our users and are undertaken to further our charitable purposes for the public benefit.

Who used and benefited from our services

All our activities throughout the year have been in pursuance of our charitable objects; our fundraising enables us to offer our facilities at a subsidised cost to groups. Our promotional activities aim to ensure that all groups who may benefit from our facilities know of them. Feedback from service users enables us to constantly monitor their experiences of using our facilities and informs our development planning, to meet the changing and diverse needs of our service users. Some testimonials this year from these user groups include:

“It's a great location to take a variety of kids from different backgrounds from London to the country.”

“The freedom and safety it gives our young students to explore a rural environment which is very different to our inner city lives.”

“The opportunity for our young people to experience the outdoors in a safe way.” “Our kids were able to roam free and there was always something for them to do, whatever the weather, which meant we were also able to relax and enjoy the time away together.”

“The students were able to experience having some freedom as staff knew they were safe within Macaroni woods.”

“A lot of the students do not leave Birmingham so being able to be out in the countryside and be able to simply run around and ride bikes was a massively beneficial experience for all.” “The child-friendly on-site facilities. Central geographic location. Warm, friendly welcome and responsive onsite support.”

“Flexible relaxed atmosphere. Large areas of woodland. Space in house for games. Large kitchen.”

We have provided outdoor learning sessions and volunteering opportunities for Alternative Provisions services. Our work with one gathered the following testimony from their Headteacher,

“The guys running the experience were absolutely brilliant in their interaction with the students. Their attitude enabled our pupils to try and not refuse or give up until they had completed whatever this may have been from feeding rabbits to cutting wood and making and serving up food from the fire. Students were spoke to about their experience of Macaroni woods and the consensus came back with how much they had enjoyed it.”

Comments included, “I loved making the bird box and taking it home to my dad who has put it up at the back of our house and there are birds nesting in it now.”

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

Visitors to Macaroni Wood during the last year included:

Step Out Mentoring Bridgend Young Carers St Andrews Techtivity ATHAC Hither Green Baptist Church Courtyard School Uffculme School Fox Hollies School Drumbeat School National Autistic Society Young Lewisham Project Swiss Cottage School XLP Brent Knoll School Riverside School Inclusability Artshape Sense DFCG Adventurous Gems Lewisham Young Carers Masbro Youth Aerokick Rewild 1[st] Royal Wootton Bassett Brownies Highworth Community Church Fairford Youth Club Film Workshop Calne Guides Feedback Global Ipswich School Alfriston School

INFORMATION ABOUT OUR USERS

In 2022 - 23 we had a total of 2,055 (1,950 2021 – 22) people that stayed with us including 82 groups. This included 83 children and young people supported through the Dennis Hunter Fund, 236 SEN Schools, 574 from Youth groups, 140 from Community groups, 208 from Disability groups and 465 Families, with 349 private guests.

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

HOW OUR ACTIVITIES DELIVER PUBLIC BENEFIT (continued)

We continued to provide outdoor learning activities, including forest school, pond dipping, night walks, animal husbandry and woodland cycling. Our thanks to Hannah Garbutt and her team for providing the Forest school sessions.

We continued the great support from volunteers this year with the addition of our regular volunteer sessions with local SEN Paternoster School. Their students provided us with vital light site and gardens maintenance, whilst we provided them with valuable transferable skills and learning opportunities building their confidence and self-esteem, as highlighted by a teacher at Paternoster School.

“ The staff at Macaroni Wood have been exceptional in accommodating us and providing valuable opportunities for our senior pupils. Every week, we attend the wood to participate in tasks that have already been set out, equipped, and organised in advance, creating accessible opportunities for our pupils, and meeting their needs.

There are so many benefits to these sessions that I have listed them below:

We have been well supported by local volunteers supporting us with hard graft and dedication with the many tasks throughout the woods. Along with our Friends from corporate organisations, such as Xylem. The volunteers are an invaluable support to Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture and will become a key part of our strategy moving forward.

The Trustees provided £3,370 of the Dennis Hunter Fund to disadvantaged groups.

The overall satisfaction from our user groups is 98% Extremely or very satisfied. The value for money appears to be recognised with 83% excellent or above average despite the new pricing structure. 98% are extremely or very likely to come back. 100% say that the staff are extremely or very friendly. 82% saying that they are extremely, very or somewhat likely to pay for more outdoor activity at the woods rather than offsite activity.

The Trustees ensure that the facilities are for public benefit, in line with our charitable objects.

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REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Governing Document

The organisation is a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered under the Companies Acts 1985 and 1989 and was incorporated on 28[th] February 1997 as amended by special resolution dated 10[th] November 2009 and as amended on 28[th] September 2022. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. The decision on who is to benefit from the Charity's remaining assets, pursuant to article 6.1 , may be made by resolution of the Members at or before the time of winding up or dissolution and, subject to any such resolution of the Members, may be made by resolution of the Directors at or before the time of winding up or dissolution.

Recruitment and Appointment of Board of Trustees

A special resolution was approved by members at our AGM 28[th] June 2022 to adopt the new Articles of Association of Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture whereby a Director shall become a Member on becoming a Director. The Directors from time to time shall be the only Members. A Director shall become a Member on becoming a Director. The Charity shall maintain a register of Members and any person ceasing to be a Member shall be removed from the Register.

All Directors give their time voluntarily. Some Directors are involved with some of the users and beneficiaries of the charity; some Directors have made private bookings during off-peak periods when the building would otherwise be unused, in line with our private booking policy. However, no Director benefits personally from their involvement with the charity.

The usual term of office for a Director shall be three years, at the end of which they shall retire. A Director shall be eligible for reappointment by the Directors for up to a further two terms, each of three years. No Director shall serve for more than nine consecutive years, unless the Directors consider it would be in the best interests of the Charity for a particular Director to continue to serve beyond that period and that Director is reappointed in accordance with the Articles.

Martin Doyle resigned from the Board on 4[th] October 2022. Caroline Newton remains the Chair and Adam Hainsworth remains as the Treasurer and John Davidson the Vice Chair.

Trustee induction and training

There was no trustee recruitment during 2022 - 23. The Board met eight times during the year, which included the AGM and the Trustees Away Weekend.

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

Planning for the Future

Financial planning is a key responsibility for the Trustees, in conjunction with the charity management team. The Trustees undertook pro bono support through the Cranfield Trust, providing a Benchmarking exercise and salary structure review. Thus ensuring staff receive a Living Wage and equitable reward for their job roles.

Co-leadership

The Co-Leadership model of Marcus Scrivens and Mark Smyth continue to work together in their roles of Centre Manager and Business Lead. From December 2022 this Management team was joined by Donna Cole as Finance and Bookings Manager. Matt continued as the Site Maintenance Officer, supporting the Centre Manager. The Housekeeping team of Ann Trinder, Penni Redding and Christina Trinder had the addition of Hannah Knight with supplementary support from an agency housekeeper, during peak periods.

Lease renewal and footprint

Conversations are still in motion with the Ernest Cook Trust (ECT) during the year as the lease for the land and buildings is due for renewal. The Trustees have identified a risk (and opportunity) in respect of the woodland behind MacVicar House.

Strategic Planning

During 2022 - 23 the Trustees and the Co-Leaders increased the staff resources by adding Donna Cole to the Management team and increasing the hours into the Housekeeping team.

The Trustees and Management will revisit these changes and develop the strategy during 2023 – 24. There will be particular emphasis on the annual Away Weekend planned for November 2023.

Risk Management

The Board of Trustees conducted a review of the major risks to which the charity is exposed during 2021 - 22. The new risk register was established and is updated annually. Where appropriate, systems or procedures have been established to mitigate the risks the charity faces. Procedures are in place to ensure compliance with health and safety of staff, volunteers, clients and visitors to the Centre. The Board of Trustees have reviewed all policies and procedures to ensure a consistent quality of delivery for all operational aspects of the

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REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT (continued)

charity. These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of the charity and the regulatory frameworks within which the charity operates.

Organisational structure

The Board of Trustees meet as a body usually six times per annum, and eight times in 2022 - 23. All decisions are taken by the Board of Trustees. The Centre’s management team, Mark Smyth & Marcus Scrivens are responsible for the day to day running of the charity including its administration, financial management, supervision of part-time staff, service delivery and fundraising activities. Now both are supported by Donna Cole. They report to the Board of Trustees at every meeting with detailed reports and financial statements thus ensuring that Board members are kept up to date with all relevant information.

Related parties

As is stated elsewhere, several of the Trustees are involved with users of the charity which is invaluable in enabling the Trustees to identify relevant policy developments and improvements.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Report of the Board of Trustees and the financial statements, in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the surplus or deficit of the company for that year. In preparing those accounts, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Companies Act 1985. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

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NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S VENTURE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (continued)

In so far as the Board of Trustees is aware:

In determining how amounts are presented within the statement of financial activities and balance sheet, the Trustees have had regard to the substance of the reported transaction or arrangement, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or practice.

The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of any financial information included on the charity’s website.

6th December Approved by the Board of Trustees on and signed on its behalf by: 2023

Mark Smyth SECRETARY

11 / 12 / 2023

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Statement of Financial Activities (including Income and Expenditure account) for the year ended 31 March 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Unrestricted Restricted Total funds
funds funds 2023 funds funds 2022
Note £ £ £ £ £ £
Income from:
Grants and donations 3 70,129 37,055 107,184 54,037 29,800 83,837
Charitable activities 4 72,595 - 72,595 51,135 - 51,135
Other trading activities 5 36,886 - 36,886 26,702 - 26,702
Investments 6 260 - 260 14 - 14
Total income 179,870 37,055 216,925 131,888 29,800 161,688
Expenditure on:
Raising funds 7 685 - 685 2,178 - 2,178
Charitable activities 8 215,406 21,331 236,737 185,568 30,153 215,721
Total expenditure 216,091 21,331 237,422 187,746 30,153 217,899
Net income/(expenditure) for the year 9 (36,221) 15,724 (20,497) (55,858) (353) (56,211)
Transfer between funds - - - - - -
Net movement in funds for the year (36,221) 15,724 (20,497) (55,858) (353) (56,211)
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward 197,652 6,647 204,299 253,510 7,000 260,510
Total funds carried forward 161,431 22,371 183,802 197,652 6,647 204,299
----- End of picture text -----

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture Company number 3325597

Balance sheet as at 31 March 2023

----- Start of picture text -----
Note 2023 2022
£ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible assets 13 41,492 43,908
Total fixed assets 41,492 43,908
Current assets
Debtors 14 18,547 11,292
Stock 1,196 1,196
Cash at bank and in hand 177,477 162,906
Total current assets 197,220 175,394
Liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling
due in less than one year 15 (54,910) (15,003)
Net current assets 142,310 160,391
Net assets 183,802 204,299
The funds of the charity:
Restricted income funds 16 22,371 6,647
Unrestricted income funds 17 161,431 197,652
Total charity funds 183,802 204,299
----- End of picture text -----

For the year in question, the company was entitled to exemption from an audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Directors' responsibilities:

These accounts are prepared in accordance with the special provisions of part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies and constitute the annual accounts required by the Companies Act 2006 and are for circulation to members of the company.

The notes on pages 20 to 33 form part of these accounts.

Approved by the trustees on and signed on their behalf by:6 December 2023

(Adam Hainsworth, Treasurer)

(Caroline Newton-Alfred, Chair)

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023

1 Accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgments and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:

a Basis of preparation

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

Noah's Ark Children's Venture meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note.

The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £ sterling.

b Judgments and estimates

The trustees have made no key judgments which have a significant effect on the accounts. The trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern.

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

d Income

Income is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item(s) of income have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

Income from government and other grants, whether ‘capital’ grants or ‘revenue’ grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred.

For legacies, entitlement is taken as the earlier of the date on which either: the charity is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executor(s) to the charity that a distribution will be made, or when a distribution is received from the estate. Receipt of a legacy, in whole or in part, is only considered probable when the amount can be measured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executor’s intention to make a distribution. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the charity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition have not been met, then the legacy is a treated as a contingent asset and disclosed if material.

Income received in advance of a provision of a specified service is deferred until the criteria for income recognition are met.

e Donated services and facilities

Donated professional services and donated facilities are recognised as income when the charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), general volunteer time is not recognised; refer to the trustees’ annual report for more information about their contribution.

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

f Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank.

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

Unrestricted funds are available to spend on activities that further any of the purposes of charity.

Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the trustees have decided at their discretion to set aside to use for a specific purpose.

Restricted funds are donations which the donor has specified are to be solely used for particular areas of the charity’s work or for specific projects being undertaken by the charity.

h Expenditure and irrecoverable VAT

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a third party, it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified under the following activity headings:

Irrecoverable VAT is charged as a cost against the activity for which the expenditure was incurred.

i Operating leases

Operating leases are leases in which the title to the assets, and the risks and rewards of ownership, remain with the lessor. Rental charges are charged on a straight line basis over the term of the lease.

Individual fixed assets are capitalised at cost and are depreciated over their estimated useful economic lives on a straight line basis as follows:

Leasehold improvements 10 to 20 years Vehicles 3 years Equipment 3 to 20 years

k Debtors

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

l Cash at bank and in hand

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

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

m Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

n Financial instruments

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

o Pensions

Employees of the charity are entitled to join a defined contribution ‘money purchase’ scheme. The charity’s contribution is restricted to the contributions disclosed in note 10. There were no outstanding contributions at the year end. The costs of the defined contribution scheme are included within costs of charitable activities.

p Stock

Stock is included at the lower of cost or net realisable value. In general, cost is determined on a first in, first out basis. Net realisable value is the price at which stocks can be sold in the normal course of business after allowing for the costs of realisation. Provision is made where necessary for obsolete, slow moving, and defective stocks. Donated items of stock are recognised at fair value which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay for the items on the open market.

Stock in the financial statements relates to merchandise purchased for re-sale.

2 Legal status of the charity

The charity is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales and has no share capital. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the charity. The registered office address is disclosed on page 8.

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

3 Grants and Donations

----- Start of picture text -----
2023 2022
£ £
Restricted funds:
Gift in kind: peppercorn lease Accommodation 18,000 18,000
-
High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Fund Glos Groups 2,500
National Lottery: Forest School Forest School - 9,300
Hedley FDN BCA Forest Schools 3,000 -
Awards for all Forest Schools 9,700 -
-
Wiiliam A Cadbury Bazley Bathrooms 1,000
Rowlands Trust Forest Schools 2,000 -
Percy Bilton Bikes Mountain Bikes 3,355 -
37,055 29,800
Unrestricted funds:
CJRS Grant - 1,861
CCDC- Covid-19 Related Grants - 13,469
H R Bull Charitable Foundation - 4,000
CHEQS Charity - 3,000
Casey Trust - 1,000
Dulverton Trust - 1,000
Friends of Macaroni Wood 1,074 1,082
PF Charitable Trust 5,000 2,500
CAF 3,700 8,203
Legacy - Macvicar Trust 15,000 15,000
Ernest Cook Trust 10,000 -
Four Winds Trust 2,100 -
Arnold Clark 1,000 -
Guiting Manor Grant 9,000 -
Leeds Building Society 1,000 -
Edward Gostlin 5,000 -
Leathersellers 4,000 -
E Lawley Foundation 1,500 -
Woodroffe Benton 1,000 -
George Henry 1,000 -
Luke Bitmead Foundation 1,000 -
Bazley Estate 5,527 -
Other 3,228 2,922
70,129 54,037
Total 107,184 83,837
----- End of picture text -----

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

4 Income from charitable activities

----- Start of picture text -----
2023 2022
£ £
Fees charged:
Special Educational Needs 9,485 3,631
Youth 9,662 11,137
Disability 18,715 15,798
Community 6,589 216
Families 21,693 20,353
Forest school 6,451 -
72,595 51,135
All income from charitable activities is unrestricted.
5 Other trading activities
2023 2022
£ £
Private Lets 36,886 26,702
36,886 26,702
6 Income from investments
2023 2022
£ £
Interest on bank deposits 260 14
All investment income is unrestricted.
7 Costs of generating funds
2023 2022
£ £
Fundraising costs 266 678
Marketing costs 419 1,500
685 2,178
----- End of picture text -----

All costs of generating funds are unrestricted.

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
8 Costs of Charitable activities 2023 2022
£ £
Direct costs
Forest school 6,550 10,330
Animal expenses 3,088 1,637
Motor and travelling 1,573 2,072
Play equipment 432 99
Depreciation 6,095 5,533
17,738 19,671
Staff costs
Salaries and contributions 126,819 111,716
DBS checks 518 285
Staff training 1,590 777
Staff entertaining 160 -
129,087 112,778
Premises costs
Lease 18,000 18,000
Rates 3,404 3,713
Light and heat 20,310 14,045
Repairs and maintenance 16,634 15,888
Cleaning 9,537 7,626
67,885 59,272
Support costs
Telephone 329 376
Insurances 2,046 1,936
Book-keeping 3,393 5,100
Stationery and postage 903 624
Computer expenses & IT support 8,306 7,395
-
(Profit)/Loss on disposal of fixed asset (2,111)
Sundry Costs 76 378
12,941 15,809
Governance
Trustee meeting expenses 215 281
Other professional fees 7,431 6,830
Independent examiner's fees 1,440 1,080
9,086 8,191
Total expenditure on charitable activities 236,737 215,721
----- End of picture text -----

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
Analysed as follows:
From restricted funds 21,331 30,153
From unrestricted funds 215,406 185,568
236,737 215,721
9 Net income/(expenditure) for the year
This is stated after charging/(crediting): 2023 2022
£ £
Depreciation 6,095 5,533
Independent examiner's fee 1,440 1,080
10 Staff costs
Staff costs during the year were as follows:
2023 2022
£ £
Wages and salaries 118,401 101,627
Social security costs 4,773 7,817
Pension costs 1,829 2,272
125,003 111,716
----- End of picture text -----

No employees has employee benefits in excess of £60,000 (2022: Nil).

The average number of staff employed during the period was 6.5 (2022: 6).

The key management personnel of the charity comprise the trustees, the Centre manager and the Business Lead. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £79,757 (2022: £78,050).

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

Neither the management committee nor any persons connected with them received any remuneration or reimbursed expenses during the year (2022: Nil).

Aggregate donations from related parties were £Nil (2022: £Nil).

No trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any contract or transaction entered into by the charity, including guarantees, during the year except as noted below (2022: nil).

, y, g j ( p), p

12 Corporation tax

The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within Chapter 3 of Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. No tax charges have arisen in the charity.

13 Fixed assets: tangible assets

----- Start of picture text -----
Leasehold
Vehicles Equipment Total
improvements
£ £ £ £
Cost
At 1 April 2022 153,306 17,957 46,561 217,824
Additions - - 3,679 3,679
Disposals - (8,895) - (8,895)
At 31 March 2023 153,306 9,062 50,240 212,608
Depreciation
At 1 April 2022 135,190 17,957 20,769 173,916
Charge for the year 1,965 - 4,130 6,095
Disposals - (8,895) - (8,895)
At 31 March 2023 137,155 9,062 24,899 171,116
Net book value
At 31 March 2023 16,151 - 25,341 41,492
At 31 March 2022 18,116 - 25,792 43,908
----- End of picture text -----

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
14 Debtors
2023 2022
£ £
Trade debtors 13,516 6,261
Other debtors (Employer's allowance owed from HMRC) 5,031 5,031
18,547 11,292
15 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2023 2022
£ £
Trade creditors 182 5,249
Accruals 3,632 3,391
Deferred income 50,395 3,500
Pension contributions 701 2,863
54,910 15,003
----- End of picture text -----

Deferred income balance relates solely to amounts received in advance for accomodation bookings, there is no deferred income in respect of grant income.

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

16 Analysis of movements in restricted funds

----- Start of picture text -----
Balance at 1 Balance at 31
Current period Income Expenditure Transfers
April 2022 March 2023
£ £ £ £ £
National Lottery Restricted for Forest School 4,647 - - - 4,647
Bruce Walker Charitable Trust: Wheelchair Bike 2,000 - - - 2,000
Trustees of Lady Bazley's 1997 Settlement - 18,000 (18,000) - -
Hedley FDN BCA - 3,000 - - 3,000
National Lottery Awards for All - 9,700 (3,331) - 6,369
Rowlands Trust - 2,000 - - 2,000
Wiiliam A Cadbury - 1,000 - - 1,000
Percy Bilton Bikes - 3,355 - - 3,355
Total 6,647 37,055 (21,331) - 22,371
Balance at
Balance at 1
Comparative period Income Expenditure Transfers 31 March
April 2021
2022
£ £ £ £ £
Cross & Wells Play Equipment 4,647 - (4,647) - -
Bruce Walker Charitable Trust: Wheelchair Bike 2,000 - - - 2,000
- -
National Lottery Restricted for Forest School 9,300 (4,653) 4,647
High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Fund - 2,500 (2,500) - -
Trustees of Lady Bazley's 1997 Settlement - 18,000 (18,000) - -
Total 6,647 29,800 (29,800) - 6,647
----- End of picture text -----

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

Name of restricted fund

Description, nature and purposes of the fund

High Sheriff of Gloucestershire Fund Bruce Walker Charitable Trust: Wheelchair Bike Cross & Wells Play Equipment Trustees of Lady Bazley's 1997 Settlement Hedley FDN BCA National Lottery Awards for All Rowlands Trust Wiiliam A Cadbury Percy Bilton Bikes

Glos Groups Wheelchair Bike Play Equipment Accommodation Forest Schools Forest Schools Bazley Bathrooms Forest Schools Mountain Bikes

----- Start of picture text -----
Balance at 1 As at 31
Current period Income Expenditure Transfers
April 2022 March 2023
£ £ £ £ £
Revenue Contingency Fund 48,500 - - - 48,500
Friends of Macaroni Wood 13,345 - - - 13,345
Buildings Contingency Fund 42,039 - - - 42,039
Dennis Hunter fund for disadvantaged groups 5,000 - (3,370) 3,370 5,000
Fixed assets 30,793 - (6,095) 16,794 41,492
Subtotal - designated funds 139,677 - (9,465) 20,164 150,376
General Funds 57,975 179,870 (206,626) (20,164) 11,055
197,652 179,870 (216,091) - 161,431
----- End of picture text -----

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Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

17 Analysis of movement in unrestricted funds (continued)

----- Start of picture text -----
Balance at As at 31
Comparative period Income Expenditure Transfers
1 April 2021 March 2022
£ £ £ £ £
Revenue Contingency Fund 38,500 - - 10,000 48,500
Friends of Macaroni Wood 13,345 - - 13,345
Buildings Contingency Fund 19,647 - - 22,392 42,039
New minibus 10,000 - - (10,000) -
Future management change fund 22,392 - - (22,392) -
Dennis Hunter fund for disadvantaged groups 5,000 - - - 5,000
Covid 19 lockdown fund 40,000 - (40,000) - -
Fixed assets 38,288 - (7,495) - 30,793
Subtotal - designated funds 187,172 - (47,495) - 139,677
General Funds 66,338 131,888 (140,251) - 57,975
253,510 131,888 (187,746) - 197,652
----- End of picture text -----

Name of unrestricted fund Revenue Contingency Fund Friends of Macaroni Wood Buildings Contingency Fund

New minibus New mobile home Renovation of new units Future management change fund Covid 19 lockdown fund Fixed assets

Description, nature and purposes of the fund

Money raised as contingency against unforeseen general expenditure Money raised as contingency against unforeseen general expenditure

Contingency against unforeseen building expenditure & long term spend on heating/efficiencies.

Purchase of replacement vehicle Purchase of replacement mobile home New accommodation

Management transition Covid 19 lockdown fund

To recognise the fact that the fixed assets are not immediately available for operating expenses.

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Noah's Ark Children's Venture

Notes to the accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 (continued)

18 Analysis of net assets between funds

ngible fixed assets
t current assets/(liabilities)
al
m
p
a
r
a
t
i
v
e
p
e
r
i
o
d
ngible fixed assets
t current assets/(liabilities)
al		 General
fund
£
-
11,055
11,055
General
fund
£
57,975
57,975		 Designated
funds
£
41,492
108,884
150,376
Designated
funds
£
30,793
108,884
139,677		 Restricted
funds
£
-
22,371
22,371
Restricted
funds
£
-
6,647
6,647		 £
41,492
142,310
183,802
£
30,793
173,506
204,299
Total 2023
Total 2022

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Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture

Independent Examiner’s report for the year ended 31 March 2023

Report to the trustees of Noah’s Ark Children’s Venture

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for the year ended 31 March 2023 as set out on pages 18 to 31.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Act and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

  1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements:

  2. to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Act; and

  3. to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act

have not been met; or

  1. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Scott Lockwood ACA Third Sector Accountancy Limited Holyoake House Hanover Street Manchester M60 0AS

Date: 11 / 12 / 2023

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