2024/25 ANNUAL REPORT
30 Years of Making a Difference Together
01332 294 436 info@bosniancentre.org Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre 99 Curzon Street, Derby DE1 1LN
www.bosniancentre.org bosnian_centre_derby Bosnian Centre Derby
P A G E 2
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
A B O U T U S A B O U T U S | | C O M I T T E E C O M I T T E E 2 0 2 4 / 2 5 2 0 2 4 / 2 5
The Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association has been a place of support, belonging, and community since 1995. Formed during the Bosnian war to help refugees rebuild their lives in the UK, the Association became a registered charity in 1998 and opened its Centre in 2001. Since then, it has grown into a welcoming hub for people from Bosnia, the wider former Yugoslavia, and refugees and asylum seekers from around the world.
Working closely with the Derby Refugee Forum and local partners, we provide practical support that helps people settle and thrive. Our services include food parcels, clothing, English language classes, help with travel documents, medical appointments, interpreting, and guidance into work or training. Thanks to our volunteers—many of whom were once supported by the Centre—we are able to offer advice in Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian, Arabic, Farsi, Kurdish, Urdu, Punjabi, and other languages, helping remove barriers and ensuring everyone feels understood and supported.
As we approach our 30th anniversary in 2025, we remain grateful to our volunteers, partners, and supporters. Their dedication allows us to continue welcoming new arrivals and strengthening community connections.
Our Management Committee, elected at the AGM in December 2024, brings together a diverse range of experience and professional skills. Meeting regularly throughout the year, the committee works to strengthen governance, improve policies, and guide the strategic direction of the Organisation.
Current Committee Members 2024/25:
-
Mualja Karahasani - Project Manager at Refugee Action
-
Zoran Rajic - Head of Complex Cyber Security Solutions; MEng (Hons) Electronics & Telecommunications Engineering
-
Sanjin Hamza - Area Sales Manager; Marketing, Advertising & PR degree; CIM Postgraduate Diploma
-
Hajrija Halilovic - Retired Social Worker; Adviser at Derby Refugee Forum Mirza Ghounem - Electromechanical Service Engineer in automation and robotics
-
Mersad Porovic - Qualified Accountant at GTT Communications
-
Ahmet Halaba - Lead Engineer at Fischer Farms
-
Muhamed Siranovic - Degree in Mining; experienced treasurer for DBHCA and Bosnia UK Network
Together, the committee’s skills, commitment, and lived experience ensure our Organisation continues to grow, adapt, and serve the communities that rely on us.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 3
C H A I R S U M M A R Y C H A I R S U M M A R Y
Dear all,
It has been yet another successful year behind us - a year that also marks the 30th anniversary since the formation of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Community Association in Derby and our continued support for the community.
All of this has only been possible thanks to the incredible dedication and kindness of our volunteers and staff members.
Without your hard work, commitment, and compassion, none of this would have been achievable.
Your efforts have not gone unnoticed - this year, our organisation was nominated for The King’s Award in the Volunteering sector.
Although we were not selected as final award recipients, reaching the final stage of this highly prestigious recognition is an achievement in itself, and something we should all be extremely proud of. Thank you once again to every one of you for your continued effort and contribution.
This year, we achieved the following:
-
Welcomed 11,994 visitors to the Bosnian Centre.
-
Together with our partner DRAC, through the Caring for Refugees project, we delivered 3,294 advice sessions, equating to 3,703 hours of support.
-
(DBHCA: 1,170 sessions | DRAC: 2,124 sessions)
-
The most common reasons for visits included:
-
Benefits (754 visits)
-
Housing (510 visits)
-
Homelessness (403 visits)
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to our funders and partners:
The National Lottery – Caring for Refugees (partner: Derby Refugee Forum ) Tudor Trust – Health Without Borders (partners: Sahahra & Hadhari Project )
UK Shared Prosperity Fund – Career Compass (partner: Artcore )
The Baring Foundation – The Untold Stories (partners: Artcore & Sahahra )
Energy Saving Trust – Warmer Derby & Derbyshire 4 (partners: Marches Energy Agency , Citizens Advice Mid Mercia , Shropshire Supports Refugees )
Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS
Foundation Trust – Safe Space Sexual Health Initiative
UK Research and Innovation – Connecting Solidarities (partner: University of Derby )
Thank you all for your continued support, hard work, and compassion. Together, we have made a real difference - and we look forward to building on this success in the years ahead.
-
E-visa Support (223 visits)
-
And many others.
-
Conducted 220 outreach visits supporting 105 individuals.
-
Delivered 421 immigration advice sessions to 131 people through our IAA-accredited services.
With gratitude, Chair Mirza Ghounem Derby Bosnia Herzegovina Community Association
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 4
D E R B Y R E F U G E E F O R U M D E R B Y R E F U G E E F O R U M | |
OUR NETWORK PARTNER OUR NETWORK PARTNER
CHAIR SUMMARY
Derby Refugee Forum has continued to go from strength to strength over the past year, providing individual advice sessions, education, well-being workshops and community events. There is a growing demand for services with 2,124 one-to-one advice sessions taking place for 811 individuals. This is an increase of 71 over the previous year. Our staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone who seeks help is supported with empathy, understanding, and practical solutions to their challenges.
Asylum seekers are largely from Sudan, Iran, Eritrea and Iraq. They often arrive with limited or no English, but joining our classes soon begin to learn and are able to integrate into the community. There were 206 education classes last year, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
Many participants have gone on to find volunteering opportunities, employment, or further education, demonstrating how powerful access to learning can be. These classes not only build language skills but also help individuals gain confidence and a sense of belonging in their new environment.
Derby Refugee Forum has hosted 28 workshops, including eye tests, hate crime awareness and prevention, financial literacy, art, CV writing, health and housing support. Gardening sessions have resulted in the beautiful flower boxes you will have seen around the centre. These activities have provided opportunities for social connection, creativity, and improved well-being, especially for those who might otherwise feel isolated.
Fun was had by all who attended the Eid and Christmas parties, Halloween event, trip to Morley church with a walk and lunch, and to Derby County, to name but a few. These community gatherings continue to bring people together, fostering friendships and mutual respect among individuals from diverse backgrounds. They remind us of the importance of celebration, joy and shared experiences in helping people heal and thrive.
A huge thank you must be sent to all our volunteers and workers at DRF, without whom none of this would be possible.
There have been changes in our staffing this year. Ruth Long left to take up another job. She gave eight years of great service, building up the activities and links with other organisations as volunteer co-ordinator and leader, to make it the successful place we have.
The baton of leadership was taken up by Selma Todorovac in February, and she is doing amazing work, too. We were also sorry to lose the services of Caroline Pulfrey, who became the friendly face at the reception. We have successfully recruited Mojgan and Alisha and look forward to working closely with them over the next years.
We would also like to thank Nedzad and Ferid, and all at the Bosnia Herzegovina Centre for their unfailing support of DRF. Our shared funding bids, especially the National Lottery, have enabled us to continue our work, along with your generosity in sharing the community centre itself.
The refugees are incredibly grateful. They have stated, ‘They (DRAC) respect us and treat us as family.’ Also, ‘If Drac stop providing help, where will we go and who will help us?’
Long may we continue our partnership to enable these things to happen.
Chairperson and Volunteer Advisor Joan Stannard Derby Refugee Forum
P A G E 5
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
C A R I N G F O R R E G U G E E S C A R I N G F O R R E G U G E E S
In its first year, the Caring for Refugees Project has delivered vital support to refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants in Derby, combining practical assistance with education, wellbeing, and community integration. Between 1 September 2024 and 31 August 2025, the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association and our project partner, Derby Refugee Forum, provided 3,294 advice sessions to 1,023 unique beneficiaries, helping people navigate complex welfare, housing, and immigration systems. Our IAA-regulated adviser alone delivered 421 sessions to 131 clients, completing applications for settle-
ment, travel documents, naturalisation, and fee waivers, reducing stress, preventing delays, and safeguarding legal status.
Homelessness emerged as a significant challenge this year. With limited housing and an increase in positive immigration decisions, some clients were left without accommodation. In response, we partnered with a local housing agency and distributed 126 emergency sleeping bags to those in urgent need, ensuring safety and dignity while awaiting permanent housing.
Education and skills development have been central to the project. Participants attended maths, ESOL, ICT, and vocational courses, including food hygiene and SIA security training, building confidence, independence, and employability. Career support workshops, job fairs, and employer partnerships helped clients explore realistic employment pathways. Wellbeing initiatives, including haircuts, massage therapy, creative arts, theatre visits, gardening, and community trips, promoted mental health, social connection, and inclusion. School engagement projects allowed children and clients to interact through art, music, and cultural activities, fostering understanding and empathy.
The Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre continues to be a focal point for refugees and asylum seekers, providing a welcoming space where individuals can access advice, education, social activities, and practical support. Over the year, the Centre recorded more than 12,000 attendances across various programs and activities, highlighting its central role in the community. The food bank also remained a vital lifeline, supporting 68 individuals across 146 visits, alongside distributing £3,270 in vouchers for food, clothing, and household items.
Volunteers, many of whom are themselves refugees, played a key role in delivering services and strengthening community cohesion.
Year 1 has taught us the importance of flexibility, strong volunteer engagement, partnership working, and culturally sensitive support. Lessons learned, such as managing staff turnover, adapting services to urgent needs, and responding to high demand for immigration and housing advice, will guide our future planning.
Looking ahead, we plan to expand volunteer involvement, increase outreach visits, train additional IAA advisers, and continue providing ESOL, skills, and vocational programs. By combining practical support with empowerment and community engagement, the project enables refugees and asylum seekers to live with dignity, develop skills, access essential services, and integrate more fully into Derby’s community.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to The National Lottery for their generous funding, which has made this project possible. Their support has enabled us to provide practical assistance, educational opportunities, wellbeing initiatives, and community engagement to hundreds of refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable migrants in Derby. The impact of their funding is felt every day in the lives of those we support, helping people live with dignity, access essential services, build skills, and integrate into the community.
Executive Operations Manager Nedzad Salkic
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 6
B O S N I A N S U P P L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L B O S N I A N S U P P L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L
SATURDAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 2024–2025
This year, the Saturday Children’s Activities ran for three hours each week, with 18 regular participants attending 36 sessions. Activities included educational games, discussion groups, films, homework support, cultural activities, and dance, providing children with a rich combination of learning, creativity, and social engagement.
A highlight of the year was the annual Bosnian Saturday Activities Gathering, hosted by DBHCA at Alestree Woodlands School. The event attracted over 400 attendees from Bosnian communities across the country, offering children the opportunity to showcase their skills, connect with peers, and celebrate their culture. Interest in the program has continued to grow, with new children signing up throughout the year. Following the success of the annual gathering, over 20 children are expected to participate from September 2025, demonstrating the program’s increasing reach and impact.
Through these activities, the Supplementary School continues to be a valuable space for educational support, cultural enrichment, and community building, helping children develop confidence, maintain their heritage, and strengthen connections within the wider Bosnian community in the UK.
O U T R E A C H W O R K O U T R E A C H W O R K
In the first year of the Caring for Refugees project, we provided 220 outreach visits, and we offered vital support to 105 individuals. These visits played a key role in helping vulnerable refugees and migrants navigate complex systems, access essential services, and improve their overall wellbeing.
Out of the total visits, 144 were delivered to former Yugoslavian clients, whilst 76 visits were carried out as part of the Warmer Derby and Derbyshire project, which helped us support refugees from diverse backgrounds, including Sudan, Iran, Eritrea, Syria, Afghanistan, and other countries affected by conflict.
Each visit lasted an average of 2 hours, totalling 445 hours of dedicated support throughout the year.
Breakdown of Outreach Support Provided:
-
77 individuals were supported with benefitsrelated issues, including form completion, appeals, and navigating changes to entitlement.
-
47 people received interpreting support in various professional settings such as GP surgeries, hospitals, and Job Centres.
-
47 individuals were assisted with contacting GPs to register, arrange appointments, or follow up on medical concerns.
-
19 people were supported with E-visa applications and related digital access needs. 13 individuals received help with bills and utilities, ensuring they could manage essential household costs.
-
12 people were supported with housing issues, including homelessness prevention and communication with local authorities.
-
Other visits addressed a range of additional needs, from emotional wellbeing support to accessing education and community activities.
Outreach workers continued to reach the most vulnerable service users from Former Yugoslavia, particularly elderly and isolated, or newly arrived refugees, whilst helping them overcome barriers, reduce isolation, and improve quality of life.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 7
H E A L T H W I T H O U T B O R D E R S H E A L T H W I T H O U T B O R D E R S
The four-year Health Without Borders initiative, delivered in collaboration with Sahara (serving the South Asian community) and Hadhari (serving the Afro-Caribbean community), set out to reduce health inequalities, improve health knowledge, and empower marginalised communities across Derby and Nottingham.
Over the course of the project, fifteen Community Health Educators (CHEs) were trained and supported across the three organisations. Their multilingual skills - including Bosnian, Urdu, Farsi, Arabic, Kurdish Sorani, Punjabi, and Afro-Caribbean languages - enabled them to reach diverse groups effectively. Through workshops, awareness sessions, and one-to-one outreach, more than a thousand people were directly supported, helping individuals gain confidence in accessing NHS services, managing health conditions, and addressing sensitive issues such as mental and sexual health.
The programme also strengthened crosscommunity connections, bringing together Bosnian, South Asian, and Afro-Caribbean communities to share knowledge and build mutual understanding. Practical training in First Aid, Dementia Awareness, and Mental Health equipped participants with essential, life-saving skills.
Although the funding has now ended, the project’s legacy remains strong. It created a dedicated network of Health Educators, established lasting partnerships with organisations such as SV2 and local health providers, and reinforced DBHCA’s role as a trusted community health hub.
Looking ahead, we will continue supporting vulnerable people, promoting vaccination awareness, and providing culturally sensitive health education for asylum seekers, refugees, and the wider community - ensuring the progress made continues to grow.
C A R E E R C O M P A S S C A R E E R C O M P A S S
This year in March we completed the UKSPF project which was highly successful in meeting and in some areas exceeding its main objectives. A total of 50 participants were enrolled, reflecting strong community interest in improving language, skills, and employment opportunities.
8 participants successfully secured employment, including 1 who became self-employed, while others achieved valuable vocational qualifications. 4 participants obtained their SIA Security Industry Authority badges, and several completed a Food Hygiene course, providing practical credentials for entry into the workforce.
The ESOL for Employability class was particularly impactful. Participation grew steadily throughout the year, and learners made remarkable progress—from speaking minimal English to confidently forming sentences and communicating effectively. The tutor tailored lessons to individual needs, combining language
learning with employability skills and real-world practice, which greatly enhanced confidence and social integration.
Personalised one-to-one sessions also played a key role, helping participants improve their CVs, prepare job applications, and strengthen interview skills. Collaboration with the National Careers Service provided valuable insights into further employment support and career development opportunities.
Overall, the project had a positive impact on the community. It has not only improved individuals’ employability but also enabled participants to integrate more confidently into society, overcome language barriers, and engage more actively in everyday life. The project has strengthened community cohesion, empowered participants to become more independent, and demonstrated the lasting benefits of targeted, community-based support. Its success highlights the importance of accessible, inclusive initiatives that promote both personal growth and social inclusion.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 8
T H E U N T O L D S T O R I E S T H E U N T O L D S T O R I E S
In March 2025, we celebrated the launch of the Untold Stories Exhibition at Artcore Gallery, where we marked the conclusion of our twoyear partnership project with Artcore and Sahahra, supported by The Baring Foundation. The exhibition showed the powerful and deeply personal artwork created by service users across all three organisations, which shared experiences that are often left untold.
Through art, they found new ways to communicate emotions and experiences that are difficult to put into words. As trust grew, so did confidence and a sense of belonging.
For DBHCA, Untold Stories was more than an art project. It was about rebuilding hope, celebrating resilience, and demonstrating the power of creativity to bring people together.
Since its launch in February 2023 at the Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre, Untold Stories has provided a safe and creative space for refugees, asylum seekers, and members of Derby’s Bosnian and South Asian communities to express themselves through art. Over two years, participants took part in regular workshops led by artists including Chris Wright, Kathryn Borg, Neil Rowley, and Jon Legge. These sessions became a space for connection, healing, and self-expression, and they enabled participants to tell their stories through painting, photography, and craft.
Many of our service users come from countries such as Afghanistan, Sudan, Eritrea, Syria, Ethiopia, Iran, and Iraq, and they carry memories of hardship and displacement.
E N E R G Y A D V I C E W I T H C O M M U N I T Y E N E R G Y A D V I C E W I T H C O M M U N I T Y C O N N E C T O R S C O N N E C T O R S
The Energy Advice with Community Connectors project began in February 2025 as a continuation of Warmer Derby & Derbyshire project and will run until February 2027. It supports residents across Derby and Derbyshire to reduce energy costs, improve home safety, and increase awareness of carbon monoxide (CO) risks.
completed more outreach visits and introduced monthly Q&A sessions, distributing energy-saving items and providing education on CO safety. Across the first three quarters, the project delivered 45 home visits and 119 face-to-face advice sessions, achieving estimated annual savings exceeding £10,000.
In the first quarter, we focused on setting up the project, including designing posters and sourcing stock for Warm Packs and CO alarms. Despite being in the preparation stage, we provided oneto-one advice to 35 service users. The second quarter focused on outreach, with 34 home visits delivering Warm Packs, CO alarms, and vouchers. Households received practical guidance to reduce damp and energy use, leading to estimated annual bill savings of £9,240 and financial gains of £6,305 through benefits and debt support. In the third quarter, we
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 9
C O N N E C T I N G S O L I D A R I T I E S C O N N E C T I N G S O L I D A R I T I E S
The Connecting Solidarities project is a community-based research initiative exploring refugee-led solidarity and the ways in which refugee communities support each other, build networks, and contribute to wider society. The project is led by the University of Derby, with the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association (DBHCA) as a key project partner, and is generously funded by the AHRC Curiosity Award.
The project was officially launched in June 2025, with a well-attended event bringing together community members, partners, and stakeholders. Guests enjoyed traditional Bosnian food, reflecting the cultural heritage at the heart of the project and creating a welcoming space for discussion and networking.
hand experiences of refugee solidarity and document the role of DBHCA as a hub for community-building.
Through community archiving, social mapping, and engagement with participants, the project aims to document the 30-year history of DBHCA, strengthen local networks, and showcase the contributions of refugee communities in Derby. By combining academic research with community knowledge, Connecting Solidarities ensures that the voices and experiences of refugees are at the centre of the project, challenging stereotypes and celebrating acts of solidarity and mutual support.
A mapping workshop was held with DBHCA staff in July to identify key community networks and areas of focus for the research. This workshop informed the next phase of the project, which involved interviews with participants identified as key community members, starting in August.
These interviews are helping to capture first-
S A F E S P A C E S E X U A L S A F E S P A C E S E X U A L H E A L T H I N I T I A T I V E H E A L T H I N I T I A T I V E
We launched the Safe Space Sexual Health Initiative at the DBHCA after completing several NHS-led training programmes for Sexual Health Champions. The project promotes sexual health education, awareness, and overall wellbeing among refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in Derby. It provides a safe and inclusive space where people can openly discuss sensitive topics such as sexual health, consent, gender identity, and relationships.
updates on our website, social media channels, and regular email newsletters. Participants are also guided on how to order free home testing kits and access multilingual information online. The project’s growing impact is reflected in personal stories of individuals who overcome fear, gain confidence, and take active steps to protect their health.
Through regular workshops, one-to-one sessions, and community outreach, the project supports participants in understanding sexual health, including STI prevention, HIV awareness, and information on PrEP and PEP. In collaboration with Charles, monthly visits from the NHS mobile health van provide free testing for HIV, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Promotion is ongoing through posters, noticeboards, and free condom dispensers (CScheme) throughout the centre, alongside
P A G E 1 0
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025 E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S SS OM
SATURDAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES 2024–2025
In June 2025, the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association (DBHCA) hosted anotherunforgettable gathering at Alestree Woodlands School, welcoming children, parents, and teachers from Bosnian supplementary schools in London, Birmingham, Coventry, and Hertfordshire.
It was a day filled with joy, emotion, and pride. The children delighted everyone with songs, poetry recitals, folklore performances, and creative work, highlighting the importance of preserving the Bosnian language, culture, and identity, no matter where we live.
The event featured speeches from distinguished guests, including Mirza Ghounem, Chair of DBHCA; Zaim Pašić, Chair of the BiH UK Network; Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire; Ajit Atwal, Mayor of Derby; Samra Koričić Mujkić, First Secretary of the BiH Embassy in London and Coordinator for Supplementary Schools; and Waqar Azmi OBE, friend of the community and advocate for intercultural dialogue. Their warm, inspiring messages left a strong impression on all attendees.
We are especially grateful to Samra Koričić Mujkić, who presented our association with a beautiful painting she created to mark our 30th anniversary. This gift holds deep emotional value and occupies a special place in our space and hearts. The program was confidently and charmingly hosted by Adna Bjelobrvić and Aldijana Pobrić in Bosnian, and Sana and Sara Akram in English, all four are former students of the Derby supplementary school. We are proud of their dedication and achievements!
We extend our thanks to all participating schools, teachers for their hard work, parents for their support, and everyone who came to celebrate our children. Special gratitude goes to our volunteers, whose tireless efforts ensured the event ran flawlessly - without them, it would not have been possible.
Together, we once again demonstrated the power of community, collaboration, and shared purpose. Proud, grateful, and motivated, we look forward to continuing this journey.
P A G E 1 1
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S
SREBRENICA FLAG RAISING CEREMONY
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
2024
In July 2025, the DBHCA organised a Srebrenica memorial flag raising outside Derby City Council. The flag, a symbol of remembrance, solidarity, and the collective promise that “Never Again” means never again for everyone, was raised jointly by Mayor Ajit Atwal and Nedzad Salkic, Operations Manager at the Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre. DBHCA would like to thank Derby City Council for providing the opportunity to host this important commemoration. The flag remained flying for several days, serving as a visible reminder of the 8,372 lives lost in the Srebrenica genocide and a symbol of resilience, hope, and our ongoing commitment to remembrance.
On 20th December 2024, the Derby BosniaHerzegovina Community Association held its Annual General Meeting, celebrating what has been our most successful year to date. The event reflected on a year of remarkable progress, including the delivery of multiple impactful projects, the securing of new and diversified funding, and the strengthening of partnerships and collaborations.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated committee, hardworking staff, and passionate volunteers whose ongoing commitment and enthusiasm made these achievements possible.
SREBRENICA MEMORIAL DAY – 30 YEARS ON
In July 2025, the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association hosted the Srebrenica Memorial Day at the Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre, Derby, marking 30 years since the genocide in Srebrenica.
The event comprised a moving programme of reflections, poetry readings, personal testimonies, and prayers, honouring the victims and reinforcing the importance of remembrance, solidarity, and resilience. The day concluded with a flower-laying ceremony at the memorial monument, paying tribute to the 8,372 lives lost. The commemoration was attended by dignitaries and community leaders, highlighting the significance of remembering Srebrenica and educating the wider community about the consequences of hatred, and the ongoing commitment to peace, justice, and unity.
Through this event, DBHCA continues to foster community cohesion, cultural awareness, and intergenerational remembrance, ensuring that Srebrenica is never forgotten.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 1 2
E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S E V E N T S A N D W O R K S H O P S
WHITE ARMBAND DAY COMMEMORATION
In May 2025, the Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre, Derby, hosted a White Armband Day commemoration, marked by the students of the supplementary school and their parents. Members of the community and friends gathered to honour the innocent civilians of Prijedor, remembering 31 May 1992, when the non-Serb population was ordered to wear white armbands and display white sheets on their homessymbols of discrimination, persecution, and atrocity.
The event emphasised the importance of remembering the past, paying respect to the victims, and educating new generations to ensure that such injustice never happens again.
HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY – HONOURING THE VICTIMS OF THE BOSNIAN WAR
On 27 January 2025, the Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre, Derby, hosted its traditional Holocaust Memorial Day event, focusing on honouring the victims of the Bosnian War. Community members came together to remember the innocent lives lost and to reaffirm our collective commitment to never forget.
The commemoration provided an important space for reflection, education, and solidarity, ensuring that the lessons of history continue to inform our work for peace, justice, and human rights.
NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS – SUPPLEMENTARY SCHOOL
In December 2024, the Derby BosniaHerzegovina Community Association organised a festive New Year party for the children of the supplementary school. During the event, 25 New Year presents were distributed to the children. The celebration featured entertainment and fun activities, with a highlight of the day being the arrival of Santa Claus.
Special thanks were extended to the staff who kindly prepared the presents and to all those who helped make the event possible. The day brought joy and excitement to the children, strengthened community bonds, and created cherished memories, with everyone looking forward to future gatherings in 2025.
P A G E 1 3
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 Y E A R S Y E A R S - - 1 9 9 5 1 9 9 5 199 2 0 1 2 2 0 1 2
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 1 4
R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 Y E A R S Y E A R S
2 0 1 3 2 0 1 3 2
==> picture [56 x 17] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
2 0 1 6 2 0 1 6 2
----- End of picture text -----
2 0 1 7 2 0 1 7 2
2 0 1 8 2 0 1 8 2
2 0 1 9 2 0 1 9 :
P A G E 1 5
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
3 0 Y E A R S Y E A R S
R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E
2 0 2 0 2 0 2 0 Z¢ 2 0 2 1 2 0 2 1 rsZL
¢ 2 0 2 2 2 0 2 2 YA
¢ 2 0 2 3 2 0 2 3 YA
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 1 6
R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 R E F L E C T I N G O N T H E 3 0 Y E A R S Y E A R S
==> picture [58 x 18] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
2 0 2 4 2 0 2 4 2
----- End of picture text -----
2 0 2 5 2 0 2 5 2
P A G E 1 7
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
R E M E M B E R I N G J A N E T & R E M E M B E R I N G J A N E T & A N N E A N N E
In 2024, we were deeply saddened by the loss of two much-loved volunteers whose dedication, kindness, and commitment shaped the heart of the Derby Refugee Forum and Bosnian Centre. Both Janet Fuller and Anne Wigley gave many years of their lives to supporting others, and embodied the compassion and community spirit that define our organisations.
Janet Fuller (Volunteer, 2014–2024)
Janet joined Derby Refugee Forum in 2014 and quickly became one of our most dedicated volunteers. Over more than a decade of service, she gave countless hours of her time and brought warmth, empathy, and care to everything she did. Janet touched many lives, always going above and beyond to make people feel supported and valued.
Anne Wigley (Volunteer, 2010–2024)
Anne began volunteering with DRF in 2010 and was known for her strong will, deep compassion, and clear sense of purpose. She was driven by a sincere desire to help others and brought strength, determination, and heart to everything she did. Anne made a lasting difference in the lives of many and played an important role in shaping the ethos of care and inclusion that continues within our organisation today.
To honour Anne, we planted a Hebe named Lady Ann, a living tribute to her spirit and the love she shared so freely with others.
In November, we gathered to celebrate Janet’s life and her extraordinary contribution. The day was filled with music, speeches, and shared memories of her generosity and humour. To honour her, we planted a rose named Dear Janet and tulips called Janet, kindly gifted by the British Red Cross Derby. In keeping with her love for Derby County, guests embraced a black-andwhite theme and took home packets of ForgetMe-Not seeds to plant in remembrance of both Janet and Anne.
We remember Janet and Anne not only for their years of service, but for the humanity, friendship, and love they brought into our shared mission. They will be dearly missed, but their legacy will continue to bloom within the Derby Refugee Forum and Bosnian Centre community.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 1 8
F I N A N C E S
INCOME OVERVIEW
During the financial year ending 31 August 2025, the organisation generated a total income of £281,173. Of this amount, £254,715 (over 90%) came through a range of grants that enabled us to continue delivering vital programmes and expanding support for our communities. The remaining £26,458 was raised through other fundraising activities.
This represents another successful year of securing the resources needed to meet growing demand for our services. We are deeply grateful to all our funders, donors, partners, and supporters whose commitment makes our work possible. Their continued trust in our mission has allowed us to strengthen existing projects and invest in new initiatives that promote inclusion, empowerment, and community wellbeing.
As the accompanying pie chart illustrates, grant funding remains our core income stream, while diversified fundraising continues to play an important role in sustaining and growing our work. We look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.
EXPENDITURE OVERVIEW
Total expenditure for the financial year was £238,215, with £237,669 invested directly in charitable activities. Just £546 was spent on fundraising costs, meaning that virtually all of our resources continued to support frontline services and community programmes.
As in previous years, the majority of our spending went towards staffing, which accounted for approximately 68% of total expenditure. This reflects the people-focused nature of our work and the importance of having a skilled, dedicated team to deliver advice, education, outreach, and community support.
Overall, expenditure was £6,000 lower than the previous year, demonstrating strong financial management and our ongoing commitment to directing funds where they create the greatest impact. The accompanying chart provides a breakdown of how resources were allocated throughout the year.
DBHCA | Annual Report 2024/2025
P A G E 1 9
11,994 Visitors on 3,294 Advice 220 Outreach Visits to Sessions Former Yugoslavia individuals 421 o8 @ 102 1,069 IAA Immigration Referrals Followers Advice Sessions on Social Media Platforms 7 os 44 8 Funders Debt-Related Partnerships ome ge Sessions 145 £3,270 87 Gas and Worth of Interpreting ElectricityVouchers Sessions Related Sessions Distributed for Food, Clothing and Household Items
754 579 135 Benefit-Related Individuals Sessions for Sessions Supported with Bills/Utilities Form-Filling Issues
454 126 HousingEmergency Related & Sleeping Bags Sessions Distributed
332 Sessions Related to Homelessness
Our Mission and Vision
Our mission is to provide support and confidential service to alleviate the effects of poverty, sickness and distress of refugees from the Former Yugoslavia and the rest of the world, regardless of their ethnic origin and background. We believe that all refugees have the right to live in a just and equal society. We aim to achieve this by providing information, support, training and educational opportunities for all of them.
We would like to express our gratitude to:
Aims and Objectives
-
to provide practical and social support to all refugees.
-
to provide advice services, support and reliable information.
-
to elevate the effects of poverty and distress on refugees.
-
to equally provide independent and impartial advice and support refugees and asylum seekers, who are on benefits or low income, disabled, elderly and vulnerable, residing in East Midlands.
-
Derby Refugee Forum Our Staff and Volunteers
-
Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in London Statutory or voluntary organisations we have been working with during 2024-2025
-
further development of the BH Community Centre as a "One Stop Shop" place, as an efficient service for refugees and asylum seekers from all over the world.
A special thank you goes to our funders:
Your support keeps our organisation progressing and allows us to help countless of people in need of our services. Thank you for understanding our vision behind each project.
The National Lottery, Tudor Trust, UK Shared Prosperity Fund The Baring Foundation, Energy Saving Trust, Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust, and
With the help of our funders, we as an organisation have extended the range of services we provide, and we hope to continue to do so in the future.
UK Research and Innovation
Contact Us
The Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Community Association is a charity registered organisation. Registered number in England and Wales is 1071955.
Bosnia & Herzegovina Centre 99 Curzon Street Derby DE1 1LN t: +44 (0)1332 294 436 e: info@bosniancentre.org w: www.bosniancentre.org
`
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR
31 AUGUST 2025
Charity Number 1071955
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| Contents | Page |
|---|---|
| Members of the board and professional advisers | 1 |
| Trustees’ annual report | 2-6 |
| Independent examiner’s report | 7 |
| Statement of financial activities | 8 |
| Balance Sheet | 9 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 10-17 |
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD AND PROFESSIONAL ADVISORS
The Board of Trustees
Mirza Ghounem (Chair) Sanjin H|amza (Vice Chair) Zoran Rajic (Treasurer) Mualja Karahasani Hajrija Hallovic Mersad Porovic Ahmet Halaba Muhammed Siranovic Midhat Kapetanovic
Chief Executive Officer
Nedzad Salkic
Registered office
99 Curzon Street Derby DE1 1LN
Independent Examiner
Derby Community Accountancy Service Babington Lodge 128 Green Lane Derby DE1 1RY
1
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Advice, signposting, in office translating, immigration advice Level 1, advice on training, benefits, housing. Pre-school activities, Outreach work to no mobile Roma and elderly/disabled Bosnian in needs, Supplementary schools, cultural, social gathering. Inter community work and bridge building Serbian, Albanian, Croatian, Bosnian, "One stop shop" support Ethnic Comm. Groups in East Midlands.
SUMMARY OF THE MAIN ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN FOR THE PUBLIC BENEFIT IN RELATION TO THESE OBJECTS
In planning our activities for the year we kept in mind the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit at our trustees meetings.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE
Over the past year, the Derby Bosnia Herzegovina Community Association has continued to provide vital support to refugees, asylum seekers, and migrant communities across Derby and Derbyshire. Through a range of funded projects and community partnerships, we have helped individuals improve their health, wellbeing, employability, and social inclusion while promoting cultural understanding and solidarity.
1. Career Compass (UKSPF Funded)
Our Career Compass project, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has provided tailored employability support to refugees and migrants facing barriers to work. Activities included one-to-one career advice, CV preparation, interview coaching, and ESOL for employability sessions.
-
50 participants engaged in classes and workshops.
-
8 people moved into employment, and further 7 people into volunteering roles.
-
11 people ended up with a vocational qualification.
-
Participants reported increased self-confidence and better understanding of the UK job market.
This project has made a significant difference for individuals re-entering work after long-term absence and for those seeking to transfer skills gained abroad into meaningful employment in the UK.
2. Health Without Borders (Tudor Trust Funded)
Our Health Without Borders project, supported by the Tudor Trust, has continued to bridge gaps in healthcare access for refugees and asylum seekers. We have provided advocacy, translation, and culturally sensitive guidance to help people register with GPs, access dental care, and understand their health rights.
-
Regular outreach to vulnerable groups, including Roma and Bosnian elderly communities.
-
Workshops delivered on mental health, end-of-life care, and navigating NHS services.
-
Reduction in isolation through group sessions and community health events.
This project remains a cornerstone of our approach to health equality.
2
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
3. Caring for Refugees (National Lottery Funded)
Our Caring for Refugees project, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, continues to provide vital welfare, housing, and integration support to asylum seekers and refugees in Derby and Derbyshire. The project focuses on helping families settle safely, access essential services, and build independent lives.
Key activities and outcomes included:
-
Assistance with Universal Credit, benefits, and housing applications.
-
Help with school placements, free school meals, bus passes, and uniforms for children.
-
Delivery of English, ICT, and employability workshops to build skills and confidence.
-
Organisation of family activities, cultural events, and outings to reduce isolation and promote social inclusion.
-
Trained volunteers with lived experience supported others through advocacy and interpreting.
The project has made a lasting difference for many families — helping parents gain confidence to find work, children settle successfully into schools, and individuals become active members of the community.
4. Warmer Derby and Derbyshire (Energy Saving Trust Funded)
Through the Warmer Derby and Derbyshire partnership, we have delivered energy advice and practical assistance to low-income households, including refugees and asylum seekers living in energy-inefficient homes.
-
Provided home energy assessments and advice on cost-saving measures.
-
Distributed energy-saving kits and connected clients to available grants and schemes.
-
Helped households reduce energy costs and improve living conditions.
The project contributes directly to tackling fuel poverty and promoting environmental sustainability across our community.
5. Sexual Health Project (NHS Derbyshire Funded)
Our Sexual Health and Wellbeing project, funded by NHS Derbyshire, has addressed a sensitive but vital area of public health among refugee and migrant groups, many of whom come from cultures where sex education is limited or taboo.
-
Delivered monthly awareness sessions on sexual health, contraception, consent, and healthy relationships.
-
Provided confidential advice and referrals to local clinics.
-
Trained a Sexual Health Lead who completed the RSPH Level 2 Understanding Health Improvement course to ensure the project is led with professionalism and empathy.
The project has successfully opened conversations around sexual health and helped improve access to services in a culturally appropriate way.
3
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
6. Connecting Solidarities – Research Project with the University of Derby
We have also taken part in a community-based research collaboration with the University of Derby called Connecting Solidarities . The project explores the 30-year history of the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Association and its role in refugee-led community building.
-
Co-produced research highlighting refugee-led solidarity and social integration.
-
Contributed to the development of a public exhibition and archive celebrating the contribution of the Bosnian community to Derby’s civic life. This partnership has strengthened our links with academia and showcased the value of community knowledge in shaping more inclusive futures.
7. The Untold Stories (Baring Foundation Funded)
The Untold Stories project, funded by the Baring Foundation and delivered in partnership with Artcore, provided a creative platform for refugees and migrants to share their lived experiences through art, storytelling, and exhibitions. The project encouraged participants to express their personal journeys of displacement and resilience, helping to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding within the wider community. It also strengthened collaboration between cultural and community sectors, ensuring that refugee voices are represented and celebrated in Derby’s artistic landscape.
Summary and Impact
Across all projects, our work has reached hundreds of individuals and families in Derby and Derbyshire. The combination of health, employment, welfare, and cultural initiatives has created a holistic network of support that empowers people to lead independent, fulfilling lives.
Our achievements this year reflect the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners. We continue to operate as a non-profit, IAA Level 1 accredited organisation, providing free immigration advice and practical support to those most in need.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate the ongoing commitment of the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Association to promoting inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all.
4
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
Acknowledgement of Management Committee
The successes of the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Association over the past year would not have been possible without the commitment, expertise, and guidance of our Management Committee. We are grateful for their dedication, which has ensured the smooth running of our projects and the continued support of our communities.
The committee members who served during this year are:
-
Mirza Ghounem (Chair) – Electromechanical Service Engineer at a leading automation and robotics manufacturer.
-
Sanjin Hamza (Vice Chair) – Area Sales Manager, degree in Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations, and Chartered Institute of Marketing postgraduate diploma.
-
Zoran Rajic (Treasurer) – Head of Complex Cyber Security Solutions for multinational companies, Meng (Hons) in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering.
-
Mualja Karahasani – Project Manager at Refugee Action.
-
Haira Halilovic – Retired social worker, currently volunteering as an adviser at Derby Refugee Forum.
-
Mersad Porovic – Qualified accountant working for GTT Communications.
-
Ahmet Halaba – Lead engineer at Nestle.
-
Muhamed Siranovic – Degree in Mining with extensive experience as Treasurer for DBHCA and the Bosnia UK Network.
-
Midhat Kapetanovic – Founding member and honorary committee member, providing wisdom and historical context from 30 years of service (sadly passed away during the year).
Their expertise, time, and commitment have been invaluable in shaping the success and impact of our work.
STRUCTURE , GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
The Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association operates from 99 Curzon Street, Derby, Derbyshire which is the registered office and the principal address of the charity. The Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association is a Registered Charity (No. 1071955). The date of its registration was 16[th] August 1998 as amended on 25[th] June 2005.
Trustee selection methods
A skills audit has been undertaken to discover those skills which are required by the trustee body. Efforts are made to recruit trustees who meet the skill requirement.
Risk management policy
The trustees examine the major risks that the charity faces each financial year when preparing and updating the strategic plan. The charity has developed systems to monitor and control these risks to mitigate any impact that they may have on the charity in the future.
5
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES AND RESULTS
RESERVES
The Association aims to build up reserves to cover 6 months operating costs in the event of a drop in income. Unrestricted Reserves held as at 31[st] August 2025 were £124,809
Independent Examiner
Mark Newey of Derby Community Accountancy Service and will be in office as independent examiner for the ensuing year.
Registered office 99 Cuzon Street Derby DE1 1LN
Signed on behalf of the trustees
Mirza Ghounem Chair
6
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association
I report on the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 August 2025 which are set out on pages 8 to 17.
Respective responsibilities of the trustees and examiner
As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
-
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Mark Newey ACMA Date Derby Community Accountancy Service Babington Lodge 128 Green Lane Derby
DE1 1RY
7
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITY
YEAR ENDED 31[st] AUGUST 2025
| Total Funds | Total Funds | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year to 31 | Year to 31 | ||||
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Aug 2025 | Aug 2024 | ||
| Funds | Funds | ||||
| Note | £ |
£ | £ | £ | |
| Income from: | |||||
| Generated funds | |||||
| Donations | 3 | - | - | - | - |
| Grants | 4 | - | 254,715 | 254,715 | 278,211 |
| Other income | 6 | 26,458 | - | 26,458 | 28,459 |
| Investment income | 5 | - | - | - | - |
| ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ||
| Total incoming resources | 26,458 | 254,715 | 281,173 | 306,670 | |
| ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ||
| Expenditure on: | |||||
| Raising funds | - | 546 | 546 | 2,100 | |
| Charitable activities | 13,490 | 223,633 | 237,123 | 241,624 | |
| -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------- | ||
| Total resources expended | 7 | 13,490 | 224,179 | 237,669 | 243,724 |
| -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | --------------------------------- | ||
| Net incoming/(outgoing) | |||||
| resources before transfers | 12,968 | 30,536 | 43,504 | 62,946 | |
| Transfer between funds | (16,905) | 16,905 | - | - | |
| -------------------------------- | --------------------------- | -------------------------------- | --------------------------- | ||
| Net incoming/(outgoing) | |||||
| resources for the year | (3,937) | 47,441 | 43,504 | 62,946 | |
| Balances brought forward | 428,746 | 14,049 | 442,795 | 379,849 | |
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ||
| Balances carried forward | 424,809 | 61,490 | 486,299 | 442,795 | |
| ================================ | =========================== | ================================ | ================================ |
The charity has no recognised gains or losses other than the results for the year as set out above.
All of the activities of the charity are classed as continuing.
The notes on pages 10 to 17 form part of these financial statements.
8
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
BALANCE SHEET
| 31 | AUGUST | 2025 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | |||||
| Note | £ |
£ | £ | £ | ||
| Fixed assets | ||||||
| Tangible assets | 11 | 300,000 | 300,000 | |||
| Current assets | ||||||
| Debtors | 12 | - | 25,071 | |||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 186,299 | 117,724 | ||||
| -------------------------------- | --------------------------- | |||||
| 186,299 | 142,795 | |||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due | ||||||
| within one year | 13 | - | - | |||
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||||
| Net current assets | 186,299 |
142,795 | ||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due after | ||||||
| one year | 14 | - | - | |||
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||||
| Total assets less current liabilities | 186,299 | 142,795 | ||||
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||||
| Net assets | 486,299 | 442,795 | ||||
| =========================== | ================================ | |||||
| Funds | ||||||
| Restricted | 15 | 61,490 | 14,049 | |||
| Unrestricted | 15 | 424,809 | 428,746 | |||
| --------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||||
| TOTAL FUNDS | 486,299 | 442,795 | ||||
| =========================== | ================================ |
The financial statements were approved by the members of the committee on the and signed on their behalf by:
Mirza Ghounem Date: Chair
The notes on pages 10 to 17 form part of these financial statements.
9
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1. Accounting policies
The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:
Charity information
The Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association is a registered charity. The charity’s registered office is 99 Curzon Street, Derby, DE1 1LN. At the end of the year there were 9 Trustees.
1.1 Accounting convention
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with FRS 102, “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”), “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice as it applies from 1 January 2015. The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The accounts are prepared in Sterling which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements to the nearest £.
The accounts have been prepared on historical cost convention apart from freehold property that is carried at market value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
These are accounts for the year ended 31 August 2025 are the first accounts Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association prepared in accordance with FRS 102, The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
1.2 Going concern
At the time of approving the accounts, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the accounts.
1.3 Charitable Funds
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity.
Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for particular purposes.
Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of an appeal.
1.4 Incoming resources
All incoming resources are included in the SOFA when the charity is legally entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. Gifts in kind have been included at market value of gifts received and in assets acquired. No amounts are included in the financial statements for services donated by volunteers.
10
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1.5 Resources expended
All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs relating to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources. Fund-raising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating information in the support of the charitable activities.
1.6 Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due after any trade discounts offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.
1.7 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other shortterm liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
1.8 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.
1.9 Financial instruments
The charity 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.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
1.10 Employee benefits
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
1.11 Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling with section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects.
11
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
1.12 Depreciation
Individual fixed assets costing £1,000 or more are capitalised at cost and are depreciated over their estimated useful economic lives on a reducing balance basis as follows:-
| Asset category | Annual rate |
|---|---|
| Equipment | 20% |
| Buildings | 0% |
2. Critical accounting estimates and judgements
In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimated and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
3. Donations
| Total Funds | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Year to 31 | Year to 31 | |
| Funds | Funds | Aug 2025 | Aug 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Donations from individuals | - | - | - | - |
| -------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |
| - | - | - | - | |
| ================================ | ===================================== | ===================================== | ============================= |
4. Grants receivable
| Total Funds | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Year to 31 | Year to 31 | |
| Funds | Funds | August 2025 | August 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| National Lottery Community Fund | - | 141,571 |
141,571 | 96,184 |
| The Tudor Trust | - | 40,000 |
40,000 | 40,000 |
| Energy Redress | - | 42,584 |
42,584 | 35,505 |
| Art Core | - | 4,144 |
4,144 | 2,272 |
| CAF - Sexual H | ealth | - | 4,938 |
4,938 |
| NHS | - | - |
- | 4,780 |
| UK SPF | - | 20,562 |
20,562 | 73,202 |
| Connecting Solidarities | - | 916 |
916 | - |
| TNL Cost of Living | - | - |
- | 22,902 |
| SANA Project | - | - |
- | 3,366 |
| --------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |
| - | 254,715 |
254,715 | 278,211 | |
| ===================================== | ===================================== | ===================================== | ============================= |
12
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
5. Interest receivable
| Year to 31 August 2025 £ Bank interest receivable - ================================ 6. Sundry Income Year to 31 August 2025 £ Invoiced income 5,830 Fundraising & Miscellaneous 20,288 Subscriptions 340 -------------------------------- 26,458 ================================ 7. Total resources expended Staff costs Travel expenses Training Telephone Fees Postage and stationery Maintenance Office Equipment Insurance and tax Electricity, gas, water Sundries Publicity and promotion |
Total Funds Year to 31 Aug 2025 £ 161,717 1,808 704 1,336 33,933 2,756 10,371 1,294 3,724 6,472 13,008 546 237,669 |
Year to 31 August 2024 £ - ===================================== Year to 31 August 2024 £ 7,219 20,840 400 ------------------------------------- 28,459 ===================================== Total Funds Year to 31 Aug 2024 £ 148,525 8,856 1,840 1,311 31,459 3,112 5,682 2,318 3,346 6,323 28,852 2,100 243,724 |
|---|---|---|
Expenditure on charitable activities was £237,123 (2024: £241,624) of which £223,633 was restricted (2024: £232,260)
13
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
8. Net (expenditure)/income
Net (expenditure)/income for the year is stated after charging/(crediting):
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Independent Examiner’s Fees | 520 | 490 |
| Depreciation | - | - |
9. Trustees and key management personnel
During the year trustees did not receive remuneration
The key management personnel of the charity consist of the trustees, the Chief Executive Officer and other members of the senior management team.
10. Employees
The average monthly number of persons employed during the year was
| Year to | Year to | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 August | 31 August | ||
| 2025 | 2024 | ||
| No | No | ||
| Direct Charitable Staff | 7 | 6 | |
| Administration | - | - | |
| ___ | ___ | ||
| 7 | 6 | ||
| ================ | ================ | ||
| Employment costs | |||
| Year to | 31 | Year to 31 | |
| Aug 2025 | Aug 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Salary costs | 146,630 | 138,652 | |
| Employers National Insurance | 6,878 | 5,168 | |
| Pension costs | 8,209 |
4,705 |
|
| 161,717 |
148,525 |
No employee earned more than £60,000 per annum.
14
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
| 11. | Tangible fixed assets | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | Building | Total | ||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Cost | ||||
| At 31 August 2024 | - | 300,000 | 300,000 | |
| Additions | - | - | - | |
| Disposals | - | - | - | |
| -------------------------------- | --------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ||
| At 31 August 2025 | - | 300,000 | 300,000 | |
| ================================ | =========================== | ================================ | ||
| Depreciation | ||||
| At 31 August 2024 | - | - | - | |
| Depreciation on Disposal | - | - | - | |
| Charge for the year | - | - | - | |
| --------------------------- | ---------------- | --------------------------- | ||
| At 31 August 2025 | - | - | - | |
| =========================== | ================ | =========================== | ||
| Net book value | ||||
| At 31 August 2025 | - | 300,000 | 300,000 | |
| =========================== | =========================== | ================================ | ||
| At 31 August 2024 | - | 300,000 | 300,000 | |
| ================================ | =========================== | ================================ | ||
| 12. | Debtors | |||
| 2025 | 2024 | |||
| £ | £ | |||
| UK SPF Project | - | 25,071 | ||
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||
| - | 25,071 | |||
| ================================ | ================================ | |||
| **13. ** | Creditors:Amounts falling due within one year | |||
| 2025 | 2024 | |||
| £ | £ | |||
| Sundry | - | - | ||
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||
| - | - | |||
| ================================ | ================================ | |||
| 14. | Creditors:Amounts falling due after one year | |||
| 2025 | 2024 | |||
| £ | £ | |||
| Sundry | - | - | ||
| -------------------------------- | -------------------------------- | |||
| - | - | |||
| ================================ | ================================ |
15
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
15. Statement of funds
| At 1 Sept 2024 Incoming Outgoing Transfers £ £ £ £ General reserve 428,746 26,458 (13,490) (16,905) Total unrestricted funds 428,746 26,458 (13,490) (16,905) National Lottery Community Fund - 141,571 (131,575) 16,905 The Tudor Trust Fund 2,000 40,000 (42,000) - Energy Redress (592) 42,584 (19,070) - Art Core 1,426 4,144 - - NHS 2,947 4,938 (2,621) - UK SPF Project 8,268 20,562 (28,815) - Connecting Solidarities - 916 (98) - Total restricted funds 14,049 254,715 (224,179) 16,905 Total funds 442,795 281,173 (237,669) - |
At 31 Aug 2025 £ 424,809 424,809 26,901 - 22,922 5,570 5,264 15 818 61,490 486,299 |
|---|---|
Restricted Funds
The National Lottery Community Fund was spent on to providing vital welfare, housing, and integration support to asylum seekers and refugees in Derby and Derbyshire.
The Tudor Trust Fund , Our Health Without Borders project, supported by the Tudor Trust, has continued to bridge gaps in healthcare access for refugees and asylum seekers. We have
provided advocacy, translation, and culturally sensitive guidance to help people register with GPs, access dental care, and understand their health rights.
Energy Redress delivered energy advice and
practical assistance to low-income households, including refugees and asylum seekers living in energy-inefficient homes.
Art Core The Untold Stories project, funded by the Baring Foundation and delivered in partnership with Artcore, provided a creative platform for refugees and migrants to share their lived experiences through art, storytelling, and exhibitions.
NHS Sexual Health and Wellbeing project, funded by NHS Derbyshire, has addressed a sensitive but vital area of public health among refugee and migrant groups, many of whom come from cultures where sex education is limited or taboo.
UK SPF Project Career Compass project, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, has provided tailored employability support to refugees and migrants facing barriers to work. Activities included one-to-one career advice, CV preparation, interview coaching, and ESOL for employability sessions.
The Connecting Solidarities project explores the 30-year history of the Derby Bosnia-Herzegovina Association and its role in refugee-led community building.
16
THE DERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025
15. Analysis of net assets
| nalysis of net assets | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Tangible fixed | |||
| assets less | Other net | ||
| associated loan | assets | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted Funds | 300,000 | 124,809 | 424,809 |
| Restricted Funds | |||
| National Lottery Community Fund | - | 26,901 | 26,901 |
| Energy Redress | - | 22,922 | 22,922 |
| Art Core | - | 5,570 | 5,570 |
| NHS | - | 5,264 | 5,264 |
| UK SPF Project | - | 15 | 15 |
| Connecting Solidarities | - | 818 | 818 |
| ______ | ______ | ______ | |
| 300,000 | 186,299 | 486,299 | |
| ==================================== | ==================================== | ==================================== |
16. Related party transactions
The charity had no related party transactions that required disclosure.
17
ERBY BOSNIA HERCEGOVINA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES
YEAR ENDED 31't AUGUST 2025
{ndependent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The Derby Bosnia Hercegovina Community Association
I report on the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 August 2025 which are set out on pages 8 to 17.
Respective responsibilities of the trustees and examiner
As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
_
Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
- e accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or e the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
rr Severs
Mark Newey ACMA Derby Community Accountancy Service Babington Lodge 128 Green Lane Derby DE1 IRY
26\ul2zozs
Date
7