Reglstratlon No. 034846611Engiand and Wales) Charlty No. 1071058 CHILDREN'S LINKS (a company limited by guarantee) TRUSTEES, REPORT AND CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 *ADEUGNRD' 3011012024 COMPANIES HOUSE A14
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CHILDREN'S LINKS CONTENTS Page Reference and administrative details Twstees, report Audrtor's report 8-10 Consolidated St8tem8nt of Financlal Activities C¢n$olidated Balance Sheet 12 Charitable Company Balance Sheet 13 Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 14 Notes to the financial statements 15-33
CHILDREN'S LINKS REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER 1071058 COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER 03484661 TRUSTEES H Kucharczyk- Chair (appointed 10.01.20241 J Wainwright - VI-chair R Croft A IAlright J Firth-Brown K Ruane V Lofthouse H Bradbury (resigned 16.08.2023) S Bulk (resigned 02.06.2023) CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER R Aylmer PRINCIPAL I REGISTERED OFFICE 7 Bull Ring Horncastle LN9 5HX INDEPENDENT AUOITORS Xeinadin Audit Limited 12 Conqueror Court Sittinglx)urne Kent ME105BH BANKERS Santander UK plc Bridle Road Bootle Merseyside L30 4GB SOLICITORS Brovme Jacobson LLP Mowbray House Castle Meadow Road Nottingham NG2 1BJ
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Trustees present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. ctu re rnance and Mana eme The company is a registered charty and a company limited by guarantee. It was established by a memorandum of association on 1 January 1997. In the event of the company being wound up, members are required to contribute an amount nol exceeding £10. The Children's Links Board of Trustees ('the board,) is responsible for the strategic direction, activities and performance of Ihe charty. However, the board delegates the day to day management of the charity to a senior management team, headed by the Chief Executive. The Charity uses an appraisal process to identify the skills required by the board and any skills gaps. Board members are recruited through an open recruitment process and strives to ensurè that there is adequate local representstion as well as a relevant mix of skills. Members of the board receive a full induction programme on joining, ongoing training and briefing sessions. The board completes an annual evaluation of its effectiveness against the Code of Governance, including a skills audit. Alms ob ectlves and acllvltles Pu0$• Children's Links aims to change children'3 lives for the better. In order to achieve this, we work together to- Help children reach their potential Build confidence and resllience Havè a lasting Impact The Charity's purposes, as set out In the objects contained in the company's memorandum of association, are to benefit the public by.. The promotion of the care and education of children, young people, families and communlties and the provision of facilities for the recreation, care, education and other leisure time occupation of children, young people and families in the interests of social welfare with the object of improving their conditions of life. The advancement of the education and trainlng of persons providing such care and educational and recreational facilities. Conducting research into all aspects of the care, education and recreation of such children, young people, famllles and communities and to publish the useful resutts of such research. Summary of ac¢lvltles The Charity has supported employees, personal development through both informal and accredited training, including role Specific qualifications and de9rees. During the year the Charity has undertaken acb'vities that contribute in the following ways to the aims and objectives of the tharity.. Hampshire Supporting the care and wellbeing of Early Years children within nursery provision
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Summary of activities (continued) North Lincolnshire Supporting the care and wellbeing of children wlth complex needs through the delivery of holiday respite care East Midlands and East Supporting separated families by delivering an Improving Child and Family Arrangements (ICFAI service Delivering contact centres to support separated families by enabling children to spend time with their parents Lincolnshire Supporting the care and wellbeing of children within early years nursery provision Supporting school aged children in out ol school childcare Advancing the education and training of persons providing care Supporting women in third sector leadership positions Supporting the voluntary and community sectors to engage in strateglc partnershlps that enhance and improve social welfare Providing community-based play services that promote wellbeing Increasing the confidence of numeracy ski115 of parents and grandparents Public benefit The board have considered and regarded the Charlty Commission's public benefit guidance In relation to the aims and objectives of the charity. As all of Children's Links, charitable activities focus on the promotion of the care and education of children, young people and adults and as a resull also directly benefit the public sector. the board is satisfied that thé charity's aims, objective and activities are of public benefit. Volunteers Twenty-five volunteers are actively engaged in supporting Ihe work of the charty throu9h a range of services. The contribution made by volunteers is significant, providing the bedrock of our delivery of contact centres across Lincolnshire, support and additional resource in our childcare settings, fundraising and supporting our governance arrangemenls. We ensure volunteers receive appropriate training, coaching and support as well as opportunity to develop their skllls and knowledge. Achl ments erfo To help us achieve our aims and objectives we have 4 strategic goals Deliver high quality seriices that meets the needs of children, young people and adults Have a skilled workforce that embodies our values Make best use of our resources to ensure long term sustainability Oplimise partnership opportunities The year ending 31 March 2024 has been challenging financially, with the charity facing both increasing costs and increasing complexity in the needs of our service users. We have invested in our structures to support our long term sustainability. whilsl continuing to be successfvl in promoting the care and education of children, young people and adults.
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 A hlevemen and Performance ontlnued Durlng the year we have directly supported.. 84 organisations (target 80), 273 learners (target 198}, 1416 parents (target 915) 2747 children {lar9et 2620), These numbers do not indude people who have accessed support our social media. To help us dellver hlgh quallty 3•rvlce3 that moot the needs of children, young peoph and adults we have reviewed and improved our data gathering and recording Vrked with teams to improve qualty assurance secured funding through grants, conlracts and fundraising reviewed and improved our internal processes recruited new trustees with specialist expertise engaged with wider community developments across Lincolnshire in order to ensure children and families have a voice and their needs are met effectively opened new contact centres In Nottlngham and Peterborough expanded our delivery of Mulliply secured a 'Good' Ofsted rating at Little Explorers and Shining Stars nurseries arranged to run a new childcare setting in North Lincolnshire from Apnl 2024 successfully tendered to run 3 RAF settings In Llncoln8hlre from April 2024 To enable us to have a skllled wortrforce that embodies our values we have delivered training deslgned to embed our values of Learning, Innovatlon, Nurturing, Kindness and Strivlng lor Success organised staff awards based on our values carried oul a staff survey developed a monthly slaff newslatter reviewed our employment package prioritised the training and development of staff worked with an HR Consullant to review our HR policies improved our staff support and supervision process To ensure we make best use of our resources to ensu long temi sustalnability we have reviewed and improved our internal procedures restructured our staffing to enable improved business development reviewed overheads and put plans in place to change the ICT. agreed plans to move the head office in 2024-25 To allow us to optlmlse partnetship opportunltles we have developed a cornmunication plan that includes a partner newsletter produced an Impact Report engaged with local, regional and sector neiworks been proactive in developing partnership funding bids
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Flnancial review Income, expenditure and results Although we have made a loss this year, this has largely been as a result of investing in structures to support future growrth, which has led to significant new business starting in 2024-25. The charity's subsidiary Linking Up Limited (LUL) had an anticipated reduction in childcare voucher income, however, we continue to seek opportunities to develop new business to replace this income. The board will continue to review the activity and viability of the LUL and take any appropriate action. ReseThe8 The charity is an operational organisation and needs to hold sufficient reserves lo fund its current operations, to provide for unforeseen events and invest for the future. The pollcy, which is to hold reserv88 calculated on three months of central running costs, is monitored by the board. At the end of March 2024, the reserves were not at the levels stated in the policy due to additional demand and Investment as stated above. To rectify this the 8oafd has requested that the senior management team take appropriate action in 2024 and actively build up the funds in line vrith the policy. Stat•ment of golng concern Whilst recognising the difficulties due to the wider economic situation and addits'onal investment undertaken this year, the board consider that the charity is a going concern. This is based on the assumptlons and actions of the last 12 months, as well as the forecast over the next 12 months. The board has satisfied themselves that the ¢haritabl• company's 8sset$ are available and adequate to fulfil its obligations. Fundralsln 14Ve are registered with the Fundraising Regulator and work in a way that is compliant with the Code of Fundraising Practice. Any internal fundraising is carried out in Ilne with our fundraising policy and additlonally vulnerable people are covered by our safeguarding policies. ere we benefit from exlernal plarforms they are registered with the Lotteries Council and the Gambllng Commission. The We have produced a plan that indicates that the charity can generate a reasonable trading profrt in the future. We belleve this is achievable based on New services that start in 2024-25 Previous successes with new business Effective systems and processes Good partnerships and nelworks Investment in future growth
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Flnancial revlew continued vmthin the next year we will be.. Continuing to develop, improve and expand our existing services, with a focus on supporting the wellbeing of children and families. Focusing on recrulting and retaining a skilled workforce that embodies our values Investigating ways to develop our income streams and making best use of our resources to ensure long term sustainability, including improving and developing our communication, engagement and marketing strategies. Contlnulng lo work with partners and communities to ensure that we are able to deliver quality services that deliver posrtive outcomes. eg onslbllltles of the truste The Children's Links Board of Tru8tees (who are also directors of Children's Links Limited for the purposes ol company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the board to prepare financial statements for each financlal year. Under ¢ompany law the board must not approve the financial ststements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charilable company and the group and of its incoming resources and appIltIon of resources. includin9 its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparlng those financial statèments the board are required to.. Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently., Observe the methods and prlnclples In the Charities Statement of Recommended Practlce (SORP)., Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent,. State vthether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed in the financial statements; Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity ill continue in operation. The board are responsible for keeping adequate accounts'ng records that are sufficient lo show and explain the charitable company and the group's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and the group and enable thern to ensure thal the financial staternents comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and the group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
CHILDREN'S LINKS TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Provision of inforniation to auditors Each of the persons who are Trustees at the time when this Trustees, report is approved, has confimed that.. So far as that Trustee Is aware, there is no audit information of which the Group's auditor is unaware, That they have taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a Trustee in order to be aware of any information needed by the Group's auditor in connection with preparing its report and to establish that the Group's auditor18 aware of that information. This report was approved by the 8oard on 12th September 2024 and signed on it's behalf by H Kuchar¢zyk Chalr
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CHILDREN'S LINKS Opinlon We have audited the financial statements of Children's Links for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the Consolidated Statement ol Financial Activities {incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account), the Consolidated and Charity Balance Sheets. the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Slandards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) including FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland.. In our opinion the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the Group's and the parent charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2024, and of the Group's incoming resources and applicatlon of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then •nded; have been properly prepared in accordance wrth United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice and., have been prepared In accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Basls for oplnlon We conducted our audit in accordance with Internalional Standards on Auditing (UK) <ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibil8$ under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audrt of the financial statements section of our report. l+Ve are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard. and the provisions available for small entities, in respect of the fact we provide non-audit services in the preparation of these financial statements, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Concluslons relatlng to golng concern In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustee's use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparatron of the financial statements is appropriate. Based on work we have perfomied, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that. individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the group's and the parent charitable company's ability to ¢ontinue as a going Goncern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilllles and the responslbllitles of the trustees wlth réspect to going concem are descrlbéd in the relevant sections of this report. Other infonnation The other information comprises the Trustee8' report. The Trustees are responsible for this other infomiation. Our oplnion ot the financial statements does not cover the other information and except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection vrfith our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other inft)rmation and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such malerial inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we condude that there is a material misstatement of this other information. we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CHILDREN'S LINKS Oplnions on other matters prescribed by the Companles Act 2006 In our opinion. based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit". the information given in the Trustees, report, which includes the Directors, report and the Strategic report prepared for ttre purposes of company law,. for the financial year for vthich the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements" and the Strategic report and Ihe Oirectors, report included within the Trustees. report have been prepared in accordance with the applicable18gal requirements. Matters on which we are requlred to report by exception Vve have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Companies Act 2008 requires us to report to you in our opinion.. the parent charitable company has not kept adequate and sufficient accounting records, or retums adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or the parent charitable company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and retums., or certain disclosures ol trusteès. remuneration specified by law are not made., or we have not received all the infomiation and explanation$ we require for our audit. the Trustées were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies exemption in preparing the Directors, report and take advantage of the small companies exemption from the requirement to prepare a strategic report. Responslblllties of TNstees As explained more fiJlly in the Trustees, responsibililies statement set out in the Trustees, report, the Trustees (who aro also the directors of the charitable Company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such intemal control as the Twstees detemine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Audltoys responslbllitles lor thè audlt ol the financlal statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial ststements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but rt is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements Can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if. individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expecled to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities. including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design proCedUS in line with our responsibilitEs, outlined above. to detect material misstatements in respecl of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to vthich our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.. Firsty, our assessment of the risk applicable to the entty's financial statements from material misststements, induding fraud. is low. Consequenty, the risks identffied are primarily concemed with dominant influence by management, income recognition and dassrfication as well as adequacy and completeness of the disclosure for related parties. In response, we have: Revrewed minutes of meetings of management and those charged wrth govemance., Tested joumal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the rationale behind transactions outside the normal course of activities., Vouched a sample of grants receivable to source documentation checking income recognition criteria as well as any restrictions for appropriate fund classification; Obtained related paty grid responses from connected parties and reviewed transactions during the year for evidence of additional, unidentified related parties.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF CHILDREN'S LINKS Auditorfs responsibilities for the audit ol the linancial statements (Continued) Wthilst the procedures listed aid us in detecting irregularities, there exists the inherent difficulty in detecting irregularities. particularly those related to fraud. However, we believe the above risks to be the pa'Cular areas most su$pl1b1e to material misstatement. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is10¢2ted on the Financial Reporting Council's website at vhwi.frc.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description foms part of our auditor's report. Use of our report This report is made solely to the charitable company's members. as a body, in accordan with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might stste to the charitable company's members those matters we are required 10 Stale to them in an audito¢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 charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Jordan Caln ACA (Senlor Statutory Audltor) for and on behalf of XEINADIN AUDIT LIMITED Chartered Accountsnts Statutory Auditors Cabourn House Station Street Bingham Nottinghamshire NG13 8AQ Date.. , /,/&)z4- 10
CHILDREN'S LINKS CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING CONSOLIDATED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 2024 Total £'ooo 2023 Total £'ooo Notes Unrestflcted £'ooo Restricted £'ooo INCOME Donations Charitable activities 1,424 108 1,532 1,720 Other trading activities 79 79 139 Other income 48 48 Investment income Total Incomo 1,661 108 1,669 1,871 EXPENDITURE Charitable activities ( 1,592) 1051 { 1.6971 ( 1.791) other trading activities 81) 81) 121) Total exp•ndltur• 1 1,673) 106 { 1,778) { 1.912) Net incomel{expenditure> 112) 109) 41> Transfers behveen funds Net movoment In funds 1121 109) Reconclliallon of funds: Total funds brought forward 20 117 10 127 168 Totsl funds carrled forward 20 13 18 127 All amounts relate to continuing activities of the group. The Statement of Financial Ath'vities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. 11
CHILDREN'S LINKS REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER." 03484661 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS AT31 MARCH 2024 Notes 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo FIXED ASSETS Inlangible assets Tangible fixed assets 14 15 18 TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 18 CURRENT ASSETS Oebtors Cash at bank and in hand 17 24 126 137 69 250 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 263 319 LIABILITIES Credrtors.. amounts falling due within one year 18 253) 210) NET CURRENT ASSETS 10 109 Creditors.. amounts falling due in over one year TOTAL NET ASSETS 127 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY: Unrestricted funds Designated funds Restricted fund8 20 20 20 34> 39 13 118 10 TOTAL FUNDS 18 127 The Irustees have prepared group accounts in accordance with section 398 of the Companies Act 2006 and section 138 of the Charities Act 2011. These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, regime. The attached notes on pages 15 to 33 fomi part of these financial statements. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 12th September 2024 and signed on their behalf by: H Kucharc2yk Ghair 12
CHILDREN'S LINKS REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER.. 03484661 COMPANY BALANCE SHEET AS A T31 MARCH 2024 Notes 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo FIXED ASSETS Tangible fixed assets 15 17 TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 17 CURRENT ASSErs Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 17 122 81 69 184 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 203 263 LIABILITIES Creditors.. amounts falling due wrthin one year 18 155> 108> NET CURRENT ASSETS 145 Credrtors.. amounts falling due in over one year TOTAL ASSETS 66 162 FUNDS OF THE CHARITY: Unrestricted funds Designated funds Restricted funds 20a 20a 20a 151 39 13 10 TOTAL FUNDS 66 162 These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, regime. The attached notes on pages 15 to 33 fomi part of these financial statements. The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 12th September 2024 and signed on their behalf by: H Kucharczyk Chair 13
CHILDREN'S LINKS REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER.. 03484661 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Note$ 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Cash Flows from Operatlng Actlvltleg Net cash provided byl(u8ed in) operating activities 23 113) 81) Cash Flow8 from Investlng Actlviti•8 Purchase of property, plant and equipment 2) Change In cash and cash equlvalents In the reportlng perlod 113) 83 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period 250 333 Cash and cash equlvalents at tho end of th• reportlng perlod 24 137 250 14
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follovts: Basls of preparatlon and consolldatlon 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 Iroland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements are prepared on a going concém basis and are presented in sterling, vthich is the functional currency of the Charity. The Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) and Balance Sheet consolidate the financial statements of the company and its subsidiary undertaking. The results of the subsidiary are consolidated on a line by line basis. No separate SOFA has been presented for the Charity alone as pérmitted by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006. The Charity meets the definrtion of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and Ilabilities are Initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy notes. b) Golng concem The Children's Links Board consider that the organisation is a going concern. This is based on the following assumptions and actions that have been made in the last Iwelve months as well as the forecast and new business opportunities over the next e1ve months. The charitable group has a deficit of £109.000 in the year ended 31 March 2024 and a deficit of £41,000 for the comparative year. The Trustee Board has satisfied themselves that the charitable company's assets are available and adequate to fulfil its obligalions. The main sources of funding are.. Local Authority Contracts Central Government European funds, induding European Soclal Fund Grant making trusts Childcare Fees from parents Charrtable donations Further details regarding the future success of the organisation are given in the Trustee's report. Legal status of the Charity There is no share capital as the company Is limited by guarantee. Each member has guaranteed an amount, not exceeding £10, towards the company's liabilities in the event of a winding up, provided that a member has not ceased to be a member one year prior to any winding up order. 15
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accountlng pollcles Icontlnued) d) Fund accountlng unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance ol the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance wrth specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. Income Income is recognised when the Charity has entitlement to the fund$, any performance conditions attached to the items of income have been met, it is probable that the income wlll be received and the amount can be mea&ured reliably. Voluntary income donations are accounted fof as received, sponsorship incorne represents amounts recelvable. Gifts in kind to the Charity are included at the value specified by the donor or, if this is not available. at what the estimated cost lo the Charily would have been. Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable. it can be measured reliably and the Charity has control over the item. Fair value is deternined on the basis of the value of the gifi to the Charlty. For example the amount the Charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure. Grants - grants are included as incoming resources when these are receivedlreceivable. Govemment grants are recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. Furthermore, any and all condrtions attached to the grant wlll need to be met. Income from trading actlvities Includes income earned from actlvities to raise funds for the Charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in order to raise lunds and is reGogni$ed when entitlement has occurred. Income from donated goods is recognised on sale of those goods. Expendltur• Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to make a payment to a thlrd pafy, it is probable that settlement will be required and Ihe amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All expendrture is accounled for on an accruals basis. Where costs cannot be directiy attfibuted to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent wrth use of the resources, Intanglble assets- goodwlll Goodwill is the difference between amounts paid on the acquisition of a business and the falr value of the idenlifiable assets and liabilities. Goo(fv4ill arising on business combinations is capitalised, classified as an asset on the Balance sheet and amortised on a straight line basis over its useful life. The period chosen for writing off goodwill is 10 years, being its estimated useful life. Provision is made for any impaiment. 16
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies (contlnued) h) Tanglble flxed assets and deprnclation Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost (or deemed cost) or valuation less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Depreciats'on is provided on all tangible fixed assets. at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset on a systematic basis over its expected useful lrfe as follows: Office equipment Computer equipment Furniture Vehicles 200h straight line 200/0 Straight line & 330A straight line 20Q/o Straight line 500/0 Straight line Assets are reviewed for any indlcations of impairment at each balance sheet date. Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognlsed at the settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. Accrued income and tax recoverable are included at the best estimate of the amounts receivable at the balance sheet date. J) Cash at bank and In hand Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid Investments with a short maturlty of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. k) Credltorn Credbtors 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 paty and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amounl after allowing lor any trade discounts due. Conces5ionary loans received at below market rates are received in order to further the charitable objectives of Ihe organisation and are therefore included at the amount reiVed and are not discounted. Financlal Instruments The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic flnanclal instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. m) Pensions Employees of the Charity are entitled to join a defined contribution pension scheme. The Charity contribution is restricted to the contributions disclosed in note 11. Operatlng leases Operating leases are recognised over the period of which the lease falls due. 17
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Donatlons 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Donations All donations received in 2024 and 2023 relate to unrestricted funds. Income from charltsble actlvltles 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Childcare fees Training fees Grants (see below) Fundraislng income Contact centre fees Other fees 905 825 491 826 76 51 24 30 1,632 1,720 Income from charitable activities was £1,532,000 {2023: £1,720,000) of which £108,000 (2023: £143,000> was attributable to restricted and £1,424,000 (2023.. £1,577,000) was attributable to unrestricted fvnds, Grants 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Local authorlty income Big Lottery and European Social Fund- Building Better Opportunities Move Grant Big Lottery and European Social Fund - Building Better Opportunities Engagement into Learning Grant CYPVSF CAFCASS NACCC Mass Vaccination Programme - Lincolnshire ICÈA Youth Music The National Lottery Community Fund - RC Midlands Region Lincoln City Foundation Oiher grants and awards 41 20 20 20 13 18 332 306 10 20 297 42 25 35 58 491 826 18
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Other trading activities The Chafty has a wholly owned trading subsidiary, Linking Up Limited, a Company incorporated and regl8tered in England and Wales (Company number.. 05830401). The principal activity of the Company is the provision of childcare voucher scheme. The income and expenditure attributable to the Company are as follows.. 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Turnover Payment to childcare settings Wages, salaries and recrurtment Administrative expenses Accountancy fees 78 ( 75) 3) 1) 2) 125 ( 1141 5) 2) Net (lossllprofit for the year 3) The Charity also operated a shop in Horncastle whlch is now closed and sold donated goods: 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Shop takings 14 14 All trading income received in 2024 and 2023 relates to unrestricted funds. Other Income 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Insurance claim Coronavirusllockdown support grants Reimbursed early lermination charges The insurance claim was for tlood damages. The coronavirus grants are household Covid support grants for the nursery settings. Early termination charges arose on changing the telecoms provider. These were reimbursed in full by the provider. Investment Income All investment income has arisen from monies held in interest bearing accounts. 19
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysis of expendltur• on charltable actlvities Analysls of expendlture on charltsble actlvltles - Current year Dlrect costs £'ooo Support costs £'ooo 2024 Costs £'ooo Charltable actlvltles: Care and education of young people 1,382 315 1,697 1,382 315 1,697 7b Anatysls of expendlture on charltable actlvltles - prfor year Dlrect costs £'ooo Support costs £'ooo 2023 costs £'ooo Charitable actlvltles: Care and educatlon of young people 1,449 342 1,791 1,449 342 1,791 Analysls of support cost8 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Staff travel and subsistence Staff training Stationery and postage Premises costs and equipment ICT costs Insurance Legal and professlonal Ilvages and salaries Recruitment and other staff costs Pension costs Govemance costs Bad debts 23 21 32 10 14 22 191 23 10 13 19 232 10 10 316 342 Analys18 of governan¢• costs 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Audit lees Other accountancy seryices Cost of Trustees, meetings 10 10 20
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 10 Analysls of staff costs and key management personnel 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Wages and salaries Social Security costs Pension 1,088 60 20 1,237 64 14 1,168 1,316 The Charlty Trustee8 were not paid and did not receive any benefits from thè Charity or Its subsidiary In the year 2024 (2023.. £nil). During the year, no Trustees were reimbursed expenses (2023: £37 to one Trustee). The key management personnel of the Charlty and the Group comprise the Trustees, the Chief Executive and the Senior Management Team. The total employee benefits of the key managemeni personnel ol Ihe Charity were £128,513 (2023.. £96,688). No employee (2023.0) had employee benefits in excess of £60,000. The average rnonthly head count was as follows.. 2024 Number 2023 Number Operational Administration 88 10 111 98 119 11 Penslon costs The Charity operates defined contribution pension schemes. The assets of these schemes are held separalely Irom those of the charitable company in independently administered funds. Conlnbutions payable by Children's Links amounted lo £20,000 (2023.. £14,000). No contributions were payable to the pension funds at the balance sheet date (2023.. £Nil). 21
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 12 Net Incoming resourc•s 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Net incoming resources is stated after charging.. Depreciation of charitable assets owned by group Operating lease charges Auditor's remuneration.. - for audit seprfices - for other accountancy services 65 41 13 Taxatlon The company is a reglslered charlty and as such Is exempt from laxatlon on ils Income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that Ihese are applied for charitable purposes.
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 14 Intangible fixed assets - group Goodwlll £'ooo Cost less Impalrnient: At 1 April 2023 Dlsposals 97 97) At 31 March 2024 Amortlsatlon: At 1 April 2023 Eliminated on disposal 97 97) At 31 March 2024 Net book value: At 1 April 2023 At 31 March 2024 The Charty acquired the entire share Capital of Linking Up Limited on 1 April 2011 for £nil consideration as part of the demerger from Sadeh Lok Housing Group, The goodwill arislng on the acquisition was amortlsed over its presumed economic life of 10 years. 23
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 16 Tanglble fixed a¥¥ets 15a Tanglble flxed assets - group Computern Furnlture & Equlpment .£'ooo Tolal £'ooo £'ooo Cost: At 1 April 2023 Additions Dlsposalg 96 43 139 1) 1) At 31 March 2024 43 138 Depreclatlon: At 1 April 2023 Charge lor the year Eliminated on disposal 82 39 121 At 31 March 2024 42 130 Net book value: Al 1 April 2023 18 At 31 March 2024 16b Tanglble flxed assets- charlty Computers Furnlture & Equlpment £'ooo Total £'ooo £'ooo Cost: At 1 April 2023 Additions Disposals 43 132 At 31 March 2024 89 43 132 Depreclatlon: At 1 April 2023 Charge for the year Eliminated on disposal 76 39 115 At 31 March 2024 82 42 124 Net book value: At 1 April 2023 13 17 At 31 March 2024 24
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 16 Investment In tradlng subsidiary The Charity holds 1,000 shares of £1 each in its wholly owned trading subsidiary Linking Up Ltd which is Incorporated in the United Kingdom. The principal activity of the subsidiary is the provision of a childcare voucher scheme. These activities were considered to be compatible with the aims and charitable objectives of Children's Links. A summary of the results ol the subsidiary is shown below.. 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Profit and Loss Account Turnover Payment to childcare settings Wages, salaries and recrurtment Administrative expenses Accountancy fees 78 ( 75) 3> 125 ( ,114) 5) 2) 2) N•t (1088)Iprofit for th• year 3) Balance Sheot Fixed assets Current assets Llabilities 60 { 98) 69 { 105) Net liabilits'es ( 38) ( 35) 17 Oeblors Due within one year Group Company 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 91 28 90 28 32 41 32 41 126 69 122 25
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 18 Credltorn: amounts falling due withln one year Group Company 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Trade credrtors Taxation and Social securlty Other creditors Accruals Deferred income 132 134 36 11 32 41 24 41 26 36 253 210 155 108 Deferred Incom• Deferred income comprises monies received in advance, primarily for programme deliveries and equipment purchases for which fvnding has been banked. Amount deferred in year is £64,000 <2023.. £36.000). All deferred income brought forward wag released during the year. 19 Loaseg Total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows.. Land and Bulldlngs 2024 2023 £'ooo £'ooo Other 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo No later than one year Later than one year and not later than five years 36 35 21 42 10 26
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20 Funds analysls 20a Funds analysls- currènt year Balance at 11412023 £'ooo Balance at 311312024 £'ooo Incomo Expendlture £'ooo £'ooo Transfern £'ooo Unrestricted funds Children's Links 151 1,483 ( 1,592) 38) Linking Up Limited 35) 78 81) 38) Total unrestricted funds 1,561 { 1.673 38> 34) Doslgnated funds Damian fund Linking Up Limited fund 38 38 Total designated funds 38 39 Total unrestrlcted funds 117 1,661 ( 1,673) Restricted funds Adrian Worsley fund Big Lottery and European Social Fund Building Better Opportunities Move Grant CYPVSF NACCC The National Lottéry Community Fund- RC Midlands region AWA Play Scape AEB Level 2 Early Years Holiday Activities & Food (HAF) Programme RAF Nursery Equipment 5) 20 18 20) 18) 42 32) 7) 2) 12 16 16) 5) Total restrlcted funds 10 108 105) 13 Total funds 127 1,669 1 1,778) 18 27
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20b Funds analy$l¥- prior year Balance at 11412022 £'ooo Balance at 311312023 £'ooo Income Expendltu £'ooo £'ooo Transfers £'ooo Unrestrl¢ted funds Children's Links 170 1,603 ( 1,626) 147 Linking Up Limited 39) 125 121) 35) Total unrestrlct•d lunds 1,728 ( 1,747) Deslgnated funds Damian fund Total de8lgnated funds Total unrestrlcted funds 132 1,728 1 1,747) 113 28
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20b Funds analysis- prior year (continued) Restricted funds Adrian Worsley fund Big Lottery and European Social Fund Building 8etter Opportunities Move Grant Big Lottery and European Social Fund Building Better Opportunities Engagement Into Learning Grant Big Lottery and European Social Fund Building Better Opportunities Building Connections Grant CYPVSF CAFCASS CLORE Lincolnshire Chapter GLLEP and ESF Community Grant Virtual Outdoor Challenge Family Explorers Tackling Inequalities 2 Shine CAD Camper MCN Grant Mum's Fit Youth Music The National Lottery Community Fund - RC Midlands region AWA Play Scape AEB First Aid AEB Level 2 Early Years MCM Women Supporting Womèn Holiday Activities & Food (HAF) Programme 20 28) 10) 2) 20 13 20) 17> 3) 2) 1) 10 10) 5) 20) 11 20 18) 3) 1) 3) 7) 20 20) Total restrictsd funds 36 143 169) 10 Total funds 168 1.871 127 29
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20c Analys18 of ass•tsi(Ilabllltles) betweon funds Total 2024 Unrestricted £'ooo £'ooo Total 2023 £'ooo Unrestricted £'ooo Restricted £'ooo Restrlct•d £'ooo G¢neral fund: Intangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets Current assets Creditors falling due within one year Creditors falling due in over one year 18 285 ( 184) 18 319 26) { 210) 186 ( 189) 263 ( 64) { 253) 13 18 119 127 Designated funds are included In the unrestricled fvnds In the above analysis and are wholly held in cash. 20d Funds analysls- descrlptlon of funds Deslgnated funds Damlan fund This was established by a legacy left to Children's Links which is used to commemorate the life of a young man who was very active in tha Lincolnshire community. The interest on the legacy 1$ used to reward young people for thelr community endeavour, usually as part of Ihe Children's Award8 ceremony. Llnklng Up Llmlted fund This fund was established to Support the exlstlng and fijture ca8hflow requirements of the subsidiary, Llnklng Up Limited.
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20d Funds analy818 - descrlption of funds Icontlnued) Restricted funds Adrlan Worsley fund This commemorates the life of a supporter of Children's Links and the interest on the fund is used to revrdrd young people for their community endeavour, usually as part of the annual Children's Awards ceremony. Blg Lottery and European Soclal Fund Bulldlng Better Opportunltles Move Grant This grant provides a range of activities and intetventions to economically inactive people to move towards and into employment. The project Is delivered across the whole of Greater Lincolnshlre. Big Lottery and European So¢lal Fund Bulldlng Better Opportunitles Engagement into Learnlng Grant Thls grant provides a range of actlvrties and interventions to economically inactNè people to move towards and into learning. The project is delivered across the whole of Greater Lincolnshire. CYPVSF (Chlldren and Young People'8 Voluntary Sector Foruml This is funded by Lincolnshire County Council to provide support for voluntary and communty sector <VCS) organisations working with children, young people and their families in Lincolnshire. CAFCASS Ichlldren and Famlly Court Advl80ry and Support Servlco) This funding is to provide supported contact centres in Gainsborough, Grantham. Lincoln, Skegness and Spalding. NACCC (Natlonal As8oclatlon ol Chlld Contact Centres) This funding has now replaced the CAFCASS funding above and is to provide supported contact centres in Gainsborough, Granlham, Lincoln, Skegness, Spalding, Notts & Derby and Peterborough. Blg Lottery and European Soclal Fund - 8ulldlng Better Opportunltles Bulldlng Connectlons Grant This fundin9 is to tackle loneliness in the rural areas of East Lindsey by providing a campervan which travels to vlllages to provide a foc81 point for people to meet. CLORE Lincolnshire Chapter The fund aims to promote, support and strengthen the network of Social Leaders in the social, voluntary and charitable sectors around the country. GLLEP and ESF Communlty Grant This funding is to deliver support programmes to women in Gainsborough. The support is linked to developing skills and confidences with the aim to get women into work or further training. Vlrtual Outdoor Challenge This funding is to encourage parentslcarers and children to spend more time outdoors by providing them with range of activities 31
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 20d Funds analysis - descrfptlon of funds Icontlnued) Famlly Explorers- Tackllng In•qualftl•s 2 This programme aims to support those facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic from l(wier socio- economic groups, BAME communities. those with long term health conditions and people with disabilities. Shlne CAD Campor To utili88 the camper in provldlng activities and services that promot• mental heallh and ylIbeIng outcomes. MCN Grant Mum's Flt To support the mental wellbeing of mums through specialist fitness classes and peer support. Youth Muslc To aid in supporting children and young people facing barriers to make, learn and eam in muslc. The Natlonal Lottery Communlty Fund - RC Midlands Reglon A National Lottery Communlty Fund project that aims to bulld a nelwork across Lincolnshlre to develop the leadership skills of women working in the third sector. AWA Play Scape A National Lottery Awards for All funded project to deliver toy library outreach and provide fun play sessions for parents and young chlldren. AEB Flrst Ald For the delivery of three Emergency First Aid at Work courses. AEB Level 2 Early Y•arn For the delivery of Level 2 Dlploma for the Early Years practltloner. Women Supportlng Women For the facilitatlon of weekly groups for women that offer emotlonal and wellbelng support in order to build confidence and self-esteem. Funded by the Managed Care Netr4vork Fund. Hollday Actlvles & Food Programme IHAF) Delivery of free holiday provisions including healthy food and enriching activities for school aged children. Funded by Lincolnshire County Council. RAF - Nursery Equlpment Funds received from the RAF to purchase necessary equipment and other items for RAF nursery settings in advance of them opening. 32
CHILDREN'S LINKS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 21 Related party transactions On the basis that this is a wholly owned Group and that consolidated financial statements have been prepared, the Group has taken advantage of the exemption not to disclose intra group transactions. There were no other related paty transactions. 22 Post Balance Sheet Events Shortly after the year end in April 2024. the Charty entered into an asset purchase agreement for the transfer of charitable assets from 'Burton Play,. No consideration was payable for the assets, but it was agreed that the Charity would also take on the creditors. 8urton Play was effeclively transferred in to be continued operationally as a going concern. Although other assets were acquired, principally the assets received were in cash, with transfers totalling £55,853 received in April 2024. 23 Reconclliatlon of net expendlture to net cash flow from operatlng actlvltl 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Net movement In funds (as per the Statement of financlal acUvltle8) 41) Adjustments for: Depreciatlon of langible fixed assets Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment Increase in debtors Increasel{Decrease) in creditors $6) 43 26) 25) Net ca8hflow from oparatlng a¢tlvttl 81) Analysis of cash and cash equlvalents 2024 £'ooo 2023 £'ooo Cash at bank and in hand 137 250 Total Cash and cash equlvalents 137 250 26 N•t debt reconclllatlon Net debt reconclliation for the Group 2024 At stsrt of year Cashflows Other non- cash changes At year end Cash at bank and in hand 250 113) 137 Net debt reconc511atlon for the Charlty 2023 At start of year Cashflows Othor non- cash changes At year end Cash at bank and in hand 333 83) 250 33