THE AUTUMN CENTRE Charity Number: 1066579 ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
THE AUTUMN CENTRE CONTENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Legal and Administrative Information Trustees Annual Report Independent Examiner's Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the financial statements Page 1 2-6 7 8 9 10-13
THE AUTUMN CENTRE LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Trustees G Scott, W Bates M Silk S Huggins M Bath S Wright © Wagland Contact Address & clo Charity Registration Number Independent Examiner 1 Osbournes Court Bight pace Essex CO7 0EB The charity is incorporated in England and Wales 1066579 Community360 Winsley's House High Street Colchester Essex, CO1 1UG
THE AUTUMN CENTRE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Chairs report We can look back on 2024-25 as a good year for The Autumn Centre. We consolidated our financial base, collected significant funds towards the replacement of our older mini bus and were able to maintain our lunch club prices at current levels for another year. There was one change in the Trustees during the year as Malcolm Bath replaced Janet Bathwho resigned during the 12 months. Attendances at the lunch dubs increased again and although food and energy pricescontinued to rise faster than expected we were able to continue to provide a two course, hot meal and a hot drink at a price of just £7.00. In addition, we were able to keep ourtransport charges down to £4.00 for a further period. A subsidy of about £10,700 was needed to cover the shortfall between lunch dub income and expenditure. The shop saw income at almost £11,000 against costs of £7,500. This surplus of £3,500, of course, supported the lunch clubs. We aim to open the shop six days a week from 9.00am to 3.00pm but we are dependent on volunteers in this regard and it is not always possible to achieve these hours. The volunteers, more often than not includ'ing trustees, do a sterling job and the surplus funds achieved this year is down to their efforts. On the fundraising front we saw income of more than £9,000, mainly through the raffles at the lunch clubs which raised over £5,000 before costs. In addition, our collection tins raised almost £1,400 with the Tesco store and petrol station at The Hythe providing over £570 of this and The One Stop in Wivenhoe a further f 186. Again, we are extremely grateful for their efforts and those of other outlets who contributed. Our Bingo evenings are proving popular, raising £850 from just two events during the year and we aim to hold these quarterly in 2025-26 instead of half yearly. The sale of books, DVDs and CDs outside the shop on two Saturdays each month (weather permitting) and Christmas sales through November and December raised £1,500 and other books DVDs and CDs sent to World of Books (Ziffit) and Music Magpie raised a further £380. The collection and sale of donated foreign currency added £223. We received a legacy of £1,000 during the year and were also very grateful to receive a number of donations, in particular £455 from Town and Country, £200 from Community Voluntary Services Tendring {CYST), £250 from Mr M Channing and £250 from The Wenlock Trust.
THE AUTUMN CENTRE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 I noted in my report fast year that we would have to investigate additional sources of grant finance in 2024-25 and we did that successfully. Grants were received from local (Essex) providers including Essex Community Foundation £6,000, Grassroots £1,000 and The Tudwick Foundation £3,000. We also, of course, received our customary grants from Alresford Parish Council £2,000 and £2,215 from Brightlingsea Town Council. From further afield we were given £2,500 by The East of England Co-op and £750 from The Woodroffe Benton Foundation. Finally, and back closer to home, Brightlingsea Winterfest, a small local provider was kind enough to provide us with 10 strong plastic storage crates at a cost of £300. We are very grateful to all of these charitable sources for their help. As a small charity we could not survive without this source of funding. Turning now to expenditure, we are pleased to report that our rent again remained at £6,000 per annum, paid quarterly. This has not increased for many years and we are grateful for the continued support of our landlords, The GK Parker Pension Fund. Our food costs rose by almost £2,000 although this was partly because of the additional meals we provided. Overall, we achieved a surplus of income over expenditure of about £11,400, mainly through the additional grants obtained. Income stood at £80,759 and expenditure £69,349 for the year. We have, therefore, gathered a solid financial base towards the replacement of our older mini bus which is almost 15 years of age and, under current legislation, has now to be replaced. These funds, together with our £7,000 reserve, have been put into a new account with the Saffron Building Society where it gathers a better rate of interest than with Barclays Bank. As always, we are in great need of volunteers to help in the lunch clubs and, in particular, the shop. As mentioned above we have had to close the shop on a few occasions in the absence of a volunteer to run it for the charity. This is very much the exception rather than the rule but one day is one day too many. Looking forward, in 2025-26 we will have to replace the older of our mini buses; as required by current legislation, and also start to give some thought to raising funds to replace the other bus within a further year or two. This will throw up further challenges; particularly with regard to fundraising but we are confident that we witl continue to move forward as we have this year. In conclusion, therefore, 2024-25 has been a very successful year and we must continue to build on that in the future to ensure that we can continue to provide the best service to our members insant G Scott Chairman - 10th January 2026 3
THE AUTUMN CENTRE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Our purpose and activities Our purpose remains that of running two lunch dubs in Brightlingsea and Alresford for the benefit of the local communities in those towns and surrounding areas. The intention is to provide the opportunity for local elderly or infirm residents to meet and socialise with their peers in order to combat social Isolation among the elderly and those with limited mobility. We continued to provide transport in our two mini buses for those members who could not otherwise attend the lunches. Our fund raising efforts included Bingo evenings at Alresford village hall and hese were so popular that we hope to hold them a, uarterf'v from mid-2025 Sales of donated books, DVDs and CDs produced we Icome and much neede funds to the charity and we were also glad to receive foreign currency which was sold on to obtain further income. We hold a weekly raffle at both lunches at a cost of £1 a ticket and this is very popular. Finally, we raised just under £1,400 from our collection tins in local shops and other retail outlets. Total fundraising income increased to a total of £9,029 for the year, an increase of £1,600 on last Our shop in Victoria Place, Brightlingsea sells disability aids and equipment at low cost, providing essential and affordable support, and the surplus 'income raised helped us to subsidise the lunch clubs. As artined of the Shairman report, underaisin are to maintain our era charges, at E7 for this year and the cost of transport at £4 for a round trip. Achievements and performance The lunch clubs continued to be well attended and we provided approximately 3,800 meals to our clients over the year. In addition, we provided transport to assist with about 1200 attendances at the lunches. Both figures were a significant increase on 2023-24. We were able to reverse the decline in shop sales shown in the previous year vith sales this year showing an increase of about £700. This gave us a surplu f iust under £5.000 to support the lunch clubs Financial review As at 1 April 2024 our total funds were: • Cash £1,116.84 • No 1 account £1,273.39 • Transport account £1,538.86 • Reserve account £18,887.55 • Spare account £5.00 4
THE AUTUMN CENTRE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 As at 31 March 2025 our total funds were: • Cash £541.27 • No 1 account £1,662.44 • Transport account £801.41 • Reserve account £9,489.72 • Spare account £4.00 • Saffron Building Society account £23,050.00 • Total £35,548.84 Reserve policy and going concern Our policy with regard to Reserves remains unchanged for this year at a figure of £7,000 although we will review this in 2025-26 with a view to increasing the sum held The charity is in a sound financial position and can continue as a going concern to a'id our members. Future plans To continue to run the lunch clubs in Brightlingsea and Alresford and to endeavour to keep the cost at £7 for a meat and £4 for transport for as long as possible. To increase our shop sales to assist in subsidising the lunch clubs and to make every effort to further increase the amount from fundraising. To continue our efforts to raise further grant income which will be needed in the foreseeable future to replace the second mini bus. Risk management Our mini bus drivers are fully trained in the use of tail lifts and side doors and in helping the escorts handing clients on and off the mini buses. Escorts are fully trained in the care of clients and in helping them safety on and off the buses and into and out of wheelchairs. A fully qualified carer is responsible for the care of our clients, helping clients in and out of outdoor clothing, seating at the meal tables, toileting and cutting of food. The carer is also qualified in First Aid. 5
THE AUTUMN CENTRE TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Our cooks are fully qualified in all aspects of catering, 'in cluding healt'n and hygiene and the management of the kitchen volunteers. In the charity shop and office the Administrator and trustees ensure that there is safe entry and adequate space for the manouevrability of the staff. We are fully insured for trustee, employee and public liability. By order of the board of trustees. Gingers 10th January 2026 6
THE AUTUMN CENTRE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 I report on the accounts of The Autumn Centre for the year ended 31 March 2025 which are set out on pages 8 to 13. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner The Charity's Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The Charity's Trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section 144 (2) of the Charities Act 2011 (The Act) but that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act, - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examiner's Statement My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. 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 considerations of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. Independent examiner's statement In the course of my examination, no material matters have come to my attention 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 the 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 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. David Courtier FMAAT AATQB for and on behalf of: Community360 Winsley's House, High Street, Colchester, Essex Date 21.01.2026 7
THE AUTUMN CENTRE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING THE INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Notes Unrestricted Funds 2025 € 2025 Total Funds 2025 Period 2024 Incoming resources Charitable activities Fundraising income Investment income Total incoming resources Resources expended Costs of charitable activities Total resources expended Net income/(expense) for the year Total Funds B/Fwd Total Funds C/Fwd 6 10,445 60,985 9,029 299 80,759 69,349 69,349 11,410 37,577 48,987 8,500 : 8,500 2,500 2,500 6,000 - 6,000 10,445 69,485 9,029 299 89,259 71,849 71,849 17,410 37,577 54,987 All of the charity's activities derive from continuing operations during the above two periods. 3,736 54,779 7,402 202 66,119 73,532 73,532 (7,413) 44,990 37,577
THE AUTUMN CENTRE BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2025 Fixed assets Tangible assets Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Stock Greditors: amounts falling due within one year Net current assets Net total assets Funds of the charity: Represented by: Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total funds Notes 10 12 13 2025 6,285 365 35,347 14,830 50,542 1,840 48,702 54,987 48,987 6,000 54,987 The financial statements on pages 7 to 13 were approved by the trustees and signed on their their behalf by: 2024 € 8,381 60 22,822 6,655 29,537 340 29,197 37,577 37,577 37,577 G Scott, Chair Gingents Date: 19th January 2026 9
THE AUTUMN CENTRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 1 Accounting policies Statement of compliance The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). They also comply with the Companies Act 2006 and Charities Act 2011. 1.2 Outgoing resources Expenditure is included in the accounts on an accruals basis, irrecoverable VAT is included as incurred. 1.3 Going concern The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern nor any significant areas of uncertainty that affect the carrying value of assets held by the charity. 1.4 Cash flow The financial statements do not include a cash flow statement because the charity, as a small reporting entity, is exempt from the requirement to prepare such a statement under Financial Reporting Standard 1 "Cash flow statements". 1.5 Income and endowments All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of the income receivable can be measured reliably. Investment income is recorded when receivable. 1.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation I assets costing more than £100 are capitalised. Depreciation is charged on a reducil lance basis at 20% per annum for equipment and 25% per annum for vehicle 1.7 Taxation Family Support Brightlingsea TA The Autumn Centre is a registered charity and accordingly is exempt from taxation on its income and gains where they are applied for charitable purposes. 1.8 Fund accountin Unrestricted Funds are funds received which have no restrictions placed on their use an are available to spend on activities that further any of the purposes of the charity Restricted Funds are funds which are to be used for purposes as specified by the funder. 10
THE AUTUMN CENTRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 2. Income from donations and legacies Donations receivable Donated goods (stock value) 2025 2025 Unrestricted Restricted 2,270 8,175 10,445 - 3. Income from charitable activities 2025 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Grants receivable 14,295 8,500 Luncheon clubs & tea 35,581 Transport 150 Sales 10,959 Other income 60,985 8,500 4. Fundraising income Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2025 Fundraising 9,029 5. Investment income Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2025 Interest receivable 299 € 6. Expenditure on charitable activities Unrestricted Restricted Luncheon club & teas 27,980 Cooks and carers 24,300 Transport Fundraising costs Shop purchases Support costs (note 7) 17,080 69,349 2,500 2025 Total 2,270 10,44 2025 Total 22.795 35,581 150 10,959 69,485 Total 2025 9,029 Total 2025 299 Total 2025 21,980 24,300 5,740 772 1,977 17,080 71,849 2024 Total 3,736 3,736 2024 Total 10,715 28,198 4,342 11,524 54,779 Total 2024 7,402 Total 2024 202 Total 2024 18,416 24,443 8,049 1,294 2,604 18,725 73,532 /
THE AUTUMN CENTRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 7. Support Costs Unrestricted Restricted 2025 2025 € Total 2025 Total 2024 Other wages Premises expenses Insurance Office costs Professional fees Donations Repairs Trustee expenses Fines Depreciation 7,250 1,399 3,567 686 200 65 1,820 2,095 17,080 : - - - - 7,250 1,399 3,567 686 200 65 1,820 2,095 17,080 8,137 1,345 2,807 1,764 100 1,478 300 2,794 18,724 8. Staff Costs The number of staff employed by the organisation is as follows: Total 2025 No. Total 2024 No. Members of staff employed 4 9. Key management personnel There were Nil members of paid staff classed as key management personnel. Trustees acted as key management personnel but received no remuneration for their work. 10. Tangible fixed assets 4 Vehicles € Office Equipment Equipment Total Cost As at 1 April 2024 Additions As at 31 March 2025 Depreciation As at 1 April 2024 Depreciation charge for year As at 31 March 2025 Net Book Value As at 31 March 2025 As at 31 March 2024 58,588 58,588 50,208 2,095 52,303 2,082 2,082 2,082 2,082 507 50T 507 507 61,177 61,177 52,797 2,095 54,892 = = 6,285 8,380 6,285 8,380 12
THE AUTUMN CENTRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 11. Debtors: amounts falling due within one year Prepayments Debtors 12. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Accruals 13. Analysis of funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Co-op Essex Community Foundation Total Total 2025 Total € 365 2025 Total 1,840 1,840 2024 Total € - 60 60 2024 Total 340 340 Balance as Incoming Outgoing Balance as at 01/04/24 resources resources Transfers at 31/03/25 37,577 80,759 (69,349) 48,987 : 2,500 6,000 8,500 (2,500) (2,500) : 6,000 6,000 37,577 89,259 (71,849) 54,987 13