UNIQUE COMMUNITY Unique Community // Annual report 2024-2025 CONTENTS 1. A note 2. Charity Overview a. Objects b. Vision & Mission c. Approach d. Values (Our Offer) & Our Ask e. Program Areas f. Staffing Structure g. Youth Board & Community Committee 3. Artistic Themes 4. 2024-2025 Statistics 5. Unique Youth Theatre 6. The Stork Project 7. DYCE 8. Outreach 9. Partnerships 10. Policies 11. Funding & Income
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 1. A Note It is such a delight to watch Unique Community grow into a stronger and more stable organisation year on year. 2024-25 was a huge year for this organisation - and there is a clear distinction this year from a small organisation into a really well structured, efficient and effective one that has the capacity to dream very big. What a joy to be part of it! Erina Davidenko, Chairperson Every year feels like such a huge leap for us at Unique Community - but this year it feels like there was a really huge shift in the way we are working. Structurally Unique Community is at its most effective and that builds the best kind of projects because our community can rely on us to exist for a long time. We know how to fundraise, we know our niche and what we do well and we have a fantastic team working with us. It's an extremely good time to be working at Unique Community and we are so excited for the year to come! • . Nataliya Kharina, Artistic Director ACRONYM DEFINITIONS: CYP - Children & Young People SEND - Special Educational Needs and Disabilities SEMH - Social, Emotional, and Mental Health, a category of Special Educational Needs (SEND) for children who struggle to manage their emotions, behavior, and relationships, hindering their learning ESL - English as a Second Language, referring to people learning English in a non-native English-speaking environment or for those whose first language isn't English 2
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 2. Charity Overview OBJECTS • To advance arts, culture, and heritage in Greater London Boroughs by providing opportunities for people who might otherwise be excluded due to the lack of financial and material resources, poor health and underachievement. To advance the education of disadvantaged young people, by providing training, leisure, and other activities in Greater London Boroughs in such ways as the charity trustees think fit. To relieve poverty amongst people from refugee and migrant communities in Greater London Boroughs who are affected by financial hardship, social exclusion, poor health, and low achievement in education by provision of training, advice & information, and by engaging them in learning, art, music and creative activities. • To promote equality and good relations between the diverse communities of the Greater London Boroughs by initiating projects and activities aimed at promotion of cross-cultural communication, understanding, and friendship amongst different communities. • To promote social inclusion for the public benefit by preventing people from becoming socially excluded, relieving the needs of those people who are socially excluded and assisting them to integrate into society, by the provision of training, performance, music, and other projects and activities. • To relieve the aged, particularly those from the Russian Community. • To protect and preserve public health by the provision of advice. VISION Everyone deserves a safe space in which they can explore, create and thrive. MISSION • INSPIRE - We inspire positive change in our community's mental health and well-being. We turn their struggles into confidence through the arts. Our community is built on sharing, learning and growing from each other's lived experience. • CONNECT - We tackle isolation amongst marginalised groups by developing peer-to-peer connection. We invite them to grow our community and create lifelong friendships. • EXPLORE - We explore emotive and challenging subject matter through the arts. We maintain a safe space for our community to be bold; finding their voice, building resilience and developing daring new art. 3
UNIQUE COMMUNITY • EMPOWER - We empower our community to co-design all of our projects. This develops tangible skills, to support them in navigating personal and global challenges. APPROACH INCLUSIVE- ACCESSIBLE - COLLABORATIVE Most people who find their way to Unique Community come from marginalised backgrounds, often having experienced significant trauma or social isolation. We shape our welcoming community around their unique needs. The personal stories and experiences of each person are entwined within every aspect of our programs, inspiring creative sessions that centre their perspectives. We invest in this approach through creating a safe, calm and prepared environment. An Arts Therapist/Wellbeing Officer supports every single one of our sessions. We celebrate each individual as they are and encourage our community to celebrate each other. No one is left behind. Our inclusive culture fosters creative exploration. In our small space, our community is empowered to tackle big things and better face the world beyond our walls. We encourage critical thinking through an empathetic lens. Critical thinking involves seeking, analysing, and evaluating multiple perspectives on a complex question or issue, being able to "see" through someone else's eyes is essential. Our staff and members hold themselves and each other accountable. Our values give them the vocabulary to do this. VALUES - OUR OFFER We believe that truly inclusive performing arts processes should feel; safe, calm, prepared and fun. This is our offer to those that access our projects. If ever we don't quite achieve it (it happens, we are also humans who make mistakes), participants can point to the words and remind us about how we should be delivering sessions. We welcome and celebrate feedback - it's how we ensure we keep getting better. SAFE - Anyone can access our projects without risk of physical or emotional harm. CALM - Everyone feels included in sessions without physical or emotional distress. PREPARED - All projects are carefully planned with the participating group in mind. FUN - Every participant enjoys our sessions and the opportunity to celebrate themselves. OUR ASK At the beginning of projects we introduce these four words to staff and participants that underpin the way we work in sessions. We understand that humans are imperfect beings who make mistakes - it's the only way we learn! These words are there to bring us back if we get lost so we ask that everyone keep them in mind throughout their work with us. OPEN - Try new things, talk to new people, speak your thoughts, and let your imagination run wild. 4
UNIQUE COMMUNITY KIND - Welcome new people, support and encourage others, and be generous with your ideas. BOLD - Be ready to explore difficult subjects, challenge yourself to consider other perspectives, and be brave enough to speak up when something feels wrong. HOPEFUL - Believe that you have endless opportunities, stand ready to gain new skills, and take everything you learn into the outside world to create a brighter future. PROGRAM AREAS This year, we have solidified our core programming, focusing on the projects that are integral to how Unique Community operates and the difference we aim to make. UNIQUE YOUTH THEATRE Unique Youth Theatre provides a dynamic range of performing arts opportunities for young people aged 7-16. Participants collaborate to create original shows, brought to life on professional theatre stages. THE STORK PROJECT The Stork Project harnesses the power of performing arts to help migrants navigate the challenges of adjusting to life in a new country. By bringing people together to work towards a shared goal, the project fosters a sense of belonging, connection, and hope within the community. DYCE DYCE provides children and young people with a safe space to engage in empathy-driven dialogue and critical thinking through engaging, interactive process drama workshops. Each DYCE workshop is rooted in original script written by Unique Community performance groups and members of the wider community, ensuring the stories resonate deeply with participants. OUTREACH / PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS Alongside our core programs we deliver outreach projects with local partners across North West London. 5
Q UNIQUE COMMUNITY STAFFING STRUCTURE In 2024-5 we established clarity on the separation of all roles and responsibilities working across Unique Community projects. TRUSTEES CEO Oversees all aspects of financial management, trustee relations, fundraising initiatives, and organisational strategy. ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Guides the organisation's artistic vision and strategy, while also overseeing fundraising efforts, training programs, delivery standards, project and partnership management. WELLBEING MANAGER (MUSIC THERAPIST) COMPANY MANAGER (previousiy company (previously wellbeing officer) - Responsible for coordinator) - Responsible for management of all the wellbeing of all participants, maintaining projects including - communication with families inclusion resources and monitoring and and participants, producing projects & shows. evaluation of all projects. OUTREACH COORDINATOR (previously DYCE project coordinator) - Responsible for school partnership project management, including DYCE. FREELANCE FACILITATORS - 14 members of staff hired across all projects VOLUNTEERS - 25 volunteers annually YOUTH BOARD & COMMUNITY COMMITTEE We have established a Youth Board and Community Committee. The Youth Board consists of a representative from each Unique Community project voted in by the groups. We also have specific representatives for inclusion - including CYP with; English as a Second Language (ESL), Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs (SEMH). The Community Committee consists of family members of young people and adults accessing our projects. Each group meets 3 times per year to discuss and make decisions on: 6
UNIQUE COMMUNITY Fundraising and how money is spent at Unique Community Themes and content of sessions across the service • Further development for the organisations • Feedback on annual plans for Unique Community What is discussed in these meetings is passed onto Trustees. They are also presented with the decisions made at the organisation as a result of their input for approval. 7
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 3. Artistic Themes Every year we collaborate with participants and the wider community to develop a theme for the artistic year's season. Themes explore societal challenges our community is facing and are used as a catalyst for making original devised work across all projects. The intention is that through the creative process participants are able to find answers through difficult situations. 2023 - 2024 - AGE OF DIFFERENCE This year's theme came out of our community's desire to learn more about themselves and each other. We are based in Brent, one of the most diverse boroughs in the UK, and the make-up of our community reflects this. We want to build empathy & critical thinking skills in children, young people and adults alike to help them understand their own identities and maybe find more understanding for others. It started with a series of questions. "Am I a minority?" asked a young person from India during a session. We give everyone the chance to share their pronouns if they want to - "Why would I do that?" asked a young person who is a refugee and falls into the category of 'disadvantaged'. She asked this while sitting next to another young person from Brazil who identifies as gender fluid. "What is a refugee?" asked a Ukrainian young person who arrived in the UK in 2022 fleeing the war. This is the make-up of a typical Unique Community room, identity matters. We are living in a time when both self-identification and assigning identity to others have become politicised acts that affect all of us everyday. This year we will be using the arts to help people better understand themselves first and then using those same skills to better understand others. Our hope is that this process helps us all build beautiful new bridges of kindness. 2024-2025 - ROOTS ROOTS. They keep us steady. They tie us down. They stop us from falling. They keep us anchored in one place. They make us aware of our surroundings. They limit our view. They teach us about our past. It's 2025 - another year, another series of BIG events. It's relentless, and our Unique Community wants to understand how we got here. This year, we aim to dig deep into the ROOTS of the issues. All the groups across our service will explore the theme ROOTS from different perspectives. Like a jigsaw puzzle of performance, these pieces will come together to form a whole picture, shedding light on what we think is truly going on. 8
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 4. 2024-2025 Statistics TOTAL NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 3,530 CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE: 3,245 ADULTS: 285 BRENT HARROW BARNET EALING 1430 CYP 260 Adults 1376 CYP 25 Adults 371 CYP 68 CYP PROJECTS UNIQUE YOUTH THEATRE - 211 children and young people accessed the service THE STORK PROJECT - 65 adults and 66 children and young people accessed the service DYCE - 2,670 children and young people accessed the service OUTREACH PROJECTS - 220 adults, 298 children and young people OUTCOME DATA INSPIRE - 2924 people stated they have improved wellbeing as a result of Unique Community Projects. CONNECT - 2959 people stated they have increased connections with peers and the local community. EXPLORE - 2852 people stated they feel more resilient to be able to face personal and global challenges. EMPOWER - 2924 people stated they have gained new skills they will be able to use beyond Unique Community projects. 9
UNIQUE COMMUNITY •; 5. Unique Youth Theatre TOTAL PARTICIPANTS: 211 TOTAL REGULARLY ATTENDING PARTICIPANTS: 87 GROUP BREAKDOWN: - 44% of Children and young people participating in our core programs have Social, Emotional or Mental Health needs. - 26% of Children and young people participating in our core programs have a statement of Special, Educational or Disability needs. 51% of Children and young people participating in our core programs receive Free School Meals. 46% of Children and young people participating in our core programs speak English as a Second Language. YOUTH THEATRE (previously known as Actor's Studio) Two original musicals were devised and performed at the Ryan Theatre in Harrow in June 2024 - Two young people were hired as associate artists to write and direct the Actor's Studio shows. From September 2024 a musician, artist and drama lead were introduced into all actor's studio sessions allowing for a multi-disciplinary approach to sessions. This has created a more inclusive space for children. DANCE & MOVEMENT / Funding & New Venue Funding has been secured to deliver two years of Dance & Movement from the Go! London Fund. - A new partnership has been forged with Chalkhil! Community Centre as a venue for the sessions. YOUNG COMPANY / Sports! - A Young Company supported by the Heritage Lottery was launched and created a show based on stories shared by families, called Sports! The show was about embracing failure as learning. - The show was performed as part of the Wandsworth Arts Fringe festival giving the young people an opportunity to be part of a professional arts festival and bringing new audiences to our work. - We secured further funding for the Young Company through the Young Harrow Foundation. EXTRA PROJECTS / - We delivered a summer project in partnership with Harrow Arts Centre. - We delivered a 10 week performance poetry project with Lyrix Organix - We forged a partnership with Punchdrunk Enrichment giving us early access to their immersive shows with our young people as the 'tester' audiences 10
UNIQUE COMMUNITY We took a theatre trip to see Matilda the Musical FEEDBACK "I want to express my gratitude for the incredible work Unique Community does in providing performance art sessions. It's clear that your commitment goes far beyond just teaching art - it's about giving these children the opportunity to express themselves, build confidence, and discover new passions that they may not have otherwise had access to. Your programs are a vital source of inspiration and empowerment, offering not just skills, but a sense of belonging and purpose. The impact you're making in the lives of these children is immeasurable. By providing them with a creative outlet, you're opening doors to new possibilities and helping to nurture their potential in ways that will last a lifetime. Thank you for your dedication, care, and love you put into every session. You are making a real difference, and the community is stronger because of your efforts." "Words fail me to express my gratitude. I'm most grateful for the help you are giving CHILD A. You have transformed her. I am grateful for the huge difference your organisation has made in her life." (Family Feedback, Spring 2025) "The environment that was created in the workshops clearly showed in the show. It's cool to create a space where young people actually get close because it's very likely that everyone doesn't get along. When you make awkward teenagers do theatre sometimes it's a disaster, the fact that it wasn't says a lot." (Young Person Feedback, Summer 2024) "It was the best show I ever did to be honest. Compared to all the other shows I've done, this one was the best one because the meaning was really clear. It had a great plot to it that everyone could understand. The metaphor was ingenious. It talks about the obstacles that we go through in life and how to overcome them." (Young Person Feedback, Summer 2024) "After the show my mum told me that everyone that came to watch it had deep thoughts about how failure isn't a bad thing. I think that everyone has a brand new perspective on winning and failing." (Young Person Feedback, Summer 2024) "Being in the project for years was so impressive how kids are getting much more confident and mature, enjoying every bit of it!" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) 11
UNIQUE COMK UNITY "Amazing. Love that they can be themselves. They learn so much." (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "So so lovely to see all the hard work and passion gone into the project - such an amazing opportunity+ so grateful" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "It had a bit of everything; plot, comedy, singing and dancing, and I could see all the children enjoying themselves" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "Great to see the children involved in every aspect of the show eg. props, backdrops etc. Play well planned + children supported to flourish!" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "Incredible show! Was really nice to see the passion and dedication from youth cast and production "A show well done in such a short time. The actors were brilliant. It would be nice to repeat some next year. Amazing teachers." (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "10/10 They did really well for 1 week of prep. It's so good to see such a diverse group come together and perform for us :-) Well done!" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) "So much applause, sheer joy what an amazing opportunity for the Yp to perform here" (Audience Member Feedback, Summer 2024) 12
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 6. The Stork Project THEATRE COMPANY / Still Here & further development - New productions were developed in partnership with the Afghan Association of London (Harrow). The production, Still Here was performed as part of the Wandsworth Arts Fringe. Ukrainian and Afghan migrant experiences are highlighted in the show. We began delivering sessions towards a re-development of Still Here that will be performed at the Camden Fringe Festival in 2025. YOUNG PEOPLES PROGRAM / Harrow Council funded program - We received further funding for the Ukrainian young people's program from Harrow Council. This allowed for 7 trips across London and 1 residential in March 2025. - We delivered 10 masterclasses covering; puppetry, drumming, mime and collage making. - We delivered sessions towards an intergenerational musical that will be performed at the Camden Fringe Festival in 2025. COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS / Wembley Holiday Inn - We have begun working with adult asylum seekers in Wembley to develop a new production as well as provide joyful weekly sessions as a means of distraction. - We ran a summer series of workshops for children asylum seekers in Wembley. MOTHER TONGUE / Funded by Harrow Giving - We have been successful in funding for a new production called Mother Tongue over two years based on Eastern European experiences of migration. - This project also entails the collection of oral histories that will be archived at the Headstone Manor and Museum in Harrow. - With this funding we have been able to hire three of our participants as Associate Artists to develop the work. FEEDBACK "Through the theatre project my depression, loss and persecution were replaced by openness, security and a little confidence. The project, and the community as a whole, played a decisive role in my integration into the new environment." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) 13
UNIQUE "The emotional state has improved and / have become more open and got the confidence and desire to express myself is returning. In general, the stage for me is always a challenge and pleasure, so every time I go on stage in front of the audience I get a new experience. The topic of the speech and the script itself resonated very much. I want to show it to many people, I really want to continue!!! The project is very successful and useful!!! (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "It helps to be more confident, because I have experienced success - it has already been done and that means I can do it again! When I look at the photos, I am very happy with my success and everyone's, it was a team effort." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "The main thing that has changed for him is he has been freed - he is free from the worries that were weighing him down before. I can see that he is moving forward and all of this is thanks to the Stork Project." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "The project organisers and participants at every step where I had difficulties came to the rescue with advice, support, and attention. We have become almost a real big family! Now I don't feel isolated, lonely and helpless as before, I know that I have true friends in good and bad. And theatrical collaborations are simply priceless! They help you appreciate and understand the people around you and yourself." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "Thank you very much for what you have done for us. / was very happy. Your way of teaching is very unique and pleasant. I'm glad we know you. I was looking forward to Friday because you bring us so much joy. I hope we will meet again soon, we will miss you." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "You're creative and distinguished presence had a deep impact on everyone's hearts. Your work reflects noble values and a generous spirit that honours art and its humanitarian role in society." (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) "What I liked about the theatre class is that it has very active and funny atmosphere. It made me feel so comfartable to express and act different emotions. / enjoy a lot. You are amazing and thank you!" (Participant Feedback, Summer 2024) 14
Q UNIQUE COMMUNITY 7. DYCE SCHOOL PARTNERS: 24 PARTICIPANTS: 2670 SESSIONS DELIVERED: 136 DYCE has become an integral part of the Unique Community core programming and schools are beginning to invest in part of the delivery giving the project longevity beyond the funding which will end in Autumn of 2025. WORKSHOPS HOPE ROAD - Based on a show performed by the Youth Theatre in 2022 exploring; Migration, Social Media & Political Instability THE SUPERMARKET - Based on a show performed by Youth Theatre in 2023 exploring; Cost-of-Living Crisis, Food Shortages, Gas Lighting BENEATH THE SURFACE - Based on a show performed by Younger Youth Theatre in 2023 exploring; Overcoming Fears, Tolerance, Open-mindedness. SCHOOL PARTNERS Alperton Community School, HAO 4JE Ark Academy Secondary, HA9 9JP Ark Elvin Academy, HA9 7DU Bentley Wood High School, HA7 3JW Chalkhill Primary School, HA9 9YP Coppetts Wood Primary School, N10 1JS Harris Lowe Academy, NW10 3ST Hatch End High School HA7 3JW Harrow High School, HA1 2JG East Lane Primary School, HAO 3NT Fairway Primary School, NW7 3HS Friern Barnet School, N11 3LS Grange Primary School, HA2 ORY Leopold Primary School, NW10 90R Newman Catholic College, NW10 3RN Park Lane Primary School, HA9 7RY Pinner High School, HA5 1NB Preston Manor (Primary & Secondary) Whitmore High School, HAZ OAD 15
Q UNIQUE COMMUNITY Woodlands School (Community SEN), HA8 6JP Uxendon Manor Primary School, HA3 OUX Preston Manor Secondary, HA9 8NA Preston Manor Lower School, HA9 OLZ FEEDBACK "It increases their understanding of things going on in the world and gives them more awareness of things that are happening around them in an engaging way" (Hatch End High School, Teacher Feedback) "I think the young people have learnt about taking other people's feelings into consideration, understanding how your words can upset somebody and knowing how to get the same message across but in a different way - being kinder." (Leopold Primary School, Teacher Feedback) "The children absolutely loved the drama, even those students that don't usually get engaged in class were really engaged - they were smiling, they were laughing. It really let them shine which was lovely. The staff interacted with the groups well and made them feel relaxed - just amazing. The children loved it! It was nice to do something practical and hands-on as opposed to doing writing activities. Thank you so much, it was amazing!" (Grange Primary School, Teacher Feedback) "I think the workshop was really inclusive, every child was able to take part even if they had any language barrier which was really good. I really loved the props that they used - it wasn't too much, just enough to make them feel engaged and better understand what was going on. The topic of the workshops is so useful and so relevant for today - it really helps them understand the world around them and the issues that adults around them might be going through and how they can work through those things." (Grange Primary School, Teacher Feedback) "Today our young people learnt lots - a very important message about using their critical thinking skills and not to believe what others are telling them. To think about it themselves." (Leopold Primary School, Teacher Feedback) 'It's a moment to explore ideas through drama which is slightly different to the curriculum that we deliver here at the school and I'm really appreciative of them for the opportunity to experience it and get to try in-role problem salving and critical thinking through role play - it's brilliant!" (Bentley Wood Secondary School, Teacher Feedback) 8. Outreach 16
UNIQUE COMMUNITY DRAMA CLUB - Drama Club continues at Park Lane Primary School as it has done since 2018. As this service costs schools money and requires them to charge parents this is now a smaller part of our service. One of our key aims is to make sure that all of our services are accessible financially. We will continue to deliver the Park Lane Drama Club however because of our long-standing partnership with Park Lane school. CHALKHILL COMMUNITY CENTRE SESSIONS We have developed a strong partnership with Chalkhill Community Centre delivering sessions to the older people's groups and running a pantomime performance workshop as part of their festive celebration event. LUMINA - We worked in partnership with Harrow School and virtual schools to deliver weekly arts sessions for looked after young people. This has led to a bigger project taking place running in 2025. MAKE SPACE - Make Space is the evolution of the Lumina project - a 10 week creative arts project for 28 looked after young people from Barnet, Brent, Ealing and Harrow. This project ran January - March 2025 and the partnership will continue in 2026. STAT We worked in partnership with Roundwood School, Sport at the Heart, Connect Stars and 6 schools across to deliver arts sessions for 60 children at risk. LET'S UNITE FOR AUTISM - 35 children and young people with SEND have been offered 22 performing arts sessions in partnership with Let's Unite for Autism, Sport at the Heart and Roundwood School and Community Centre. 17
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 9. Partnerships HIGHLIGHTS - We are part of an Arts Council funded Priority Place grant consortium 2024 - 2027 to develop the arts and culture landscape for children and young people across Brent. • We have forged strong partnerships with Harrow Council and Young Harrow Foundation who continue to fund our work with Ukrainian young people. We have formed strong local partnerships which continue to grow new and exciting outreach projects. PARTNERS Virtual Schools - Barnet, Brent, Ealing & Harrow Punchdrunk Enrichment Fresh Arts The Awareness Tap Mahogany Carnival Arts Afghan Association London (Harrow) Wembley Park & Quintain Roundwood School & Community Centre Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Sport at the Heart Connect Stars Young Brent Foundation Young Harrow Foundation Harrow Council Brent Council Safe Neighbourhoods Board Romanian and Eastern European Hub Clube dos Brasileirinhos We Restart Synergy Theatre Kinspiration Let's Unite for Autism Garden Studios Blue Check Bar PAL Network 18
UNIQUE COMMUNITY 10. Policies & Funders POLICIES CHILD PROECTION & SAFEGUARDING POLICY ADULT SAFEGUARDING POLICY EQUALITY, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION OPPORTUNITY POLICY HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY DATA PROTECTION & PRIVACY POLICY WHISTLEBLOWLING POLICY ANTI-BULLYING POLICY WHATSAPP POLICY ETHICAL FUNDRASING POLICY COMPLAINTS POLICY & PROCEDURE SAFER RECRUITMENT POLICY FINANCIAL PROCEDURES & RESERVES POLICY ANTI-FRAUD POLICY VOLUNTEER POLICY LONE WORKING POLICY FUNDERS & INCOME Arts Council England Heritage Lottery John Lyon's Charity Young Harrow Foundation Harrow Council Young Brent Foundation Brent Council 19
UNIQUE COMMUNIT Mercer's Company The National Lottery Community Fund Go! London Harrow School Sport at the Heart London Youth Let's Unite for Autism Jack Petchey Foundation Chalkhill Community Trust Connect Stars 20
Registered Charity Number 1077222 • • Unique Community Charity Charity Accounts Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025
Unique Community Charity Charity Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 Report and accounts Contents Administration details of the Charity, it's Trustees and Advisers Report of the Trustees Information Sheet Trustees Responsibility Report Independent Examiner's report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements Schedule to the Statement of Financial Activities Page 1 2-20 21 22 23 24 25 26-29 30
Trustees: Chairperson Treasurer Registered office: Charity Registered Number: Bankers Unique Community Charity Charity Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 Rebecca Bincan Liudmila Malinovskaia Asta Marshall Erina Davidenko Asta Marshall Punchdrunk Enrichment Unit 22 Watkin Road Wembley London HA9 ONL 1077222 Barclays Bank PLC Harrow Station Road 21
Unique Community Charity Trustees' Responsiblities Statement forthe year ended 31 March 2025 Too lance or upie Colaw any Chaiy are rom ace for Sparing de lei Report and rail celer one g Charity law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under Charity Act the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the chary and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the Charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: - select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP; make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and pruden state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed ar - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charitable transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charity Act 2011 The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charities transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other regularities. 22
• Unique Community Charity Charity Accounts Independent Examiner's Report on the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025, which are set out on pages 24 to 30. Respective responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner As the charity trustees of the Charity it is you who are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 Having satisfied myself that charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination under Charities Act 2011, it is my responsibility to: I report in repsect of my examinaton of the Charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act. In carrying out my examination i have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity's commission under Secton 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act Conclusions relating to going concern My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequentiy no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Independent Examiner's Statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements: 1) accounting records were not kept in repset of the Charity as regired by Section 130 of the Act; or; 2) the accounts do not accord with those records; or 3) the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of the accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that accounts give a "true and fair view" which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. Corresponding figures The charity was not subject to audit in previous period, therefore the opening balances and the corresponding figures are unaudited. We did not undertaken an Independent examination of the comparatives. I confirm there are no matters to which your attention should be drawn to enable a proper undestanding to be reached. :> Ahmed Ali FCCA AGA Accountants Harrow business centre 429-433 Pinner Road North Harrow HA1 4HN Dated: 28 January 2026 23
Unique Community Charity Statement of Financial Activities income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31 March 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Notes 2025 2025 E Total Funds 2025 Last year Total Funds 2024 Incoming resources Incoming resources from generated funds: Voluntary Income 2 Total incoming resources Resources expended Charitable activities Expenses and Support cost Total resources expended Net incoming resources before transfers between funds Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total Funds carried forward All of the above amounts relate to continuing activities. The notes on pages 11 to 14 form part of these financial statements. 16,553 16,553 : 16,553 - 16,553 241,939 241,939 258,491 258,491 218,866 218,866 90,082 157,823 247,905 5,966 5,966 90,082 157,823 247.905 10,586 10,586 61,652 87,847 149.500 69,966 69,366 49,705 66,258 54,924 48,958 104,629 115,215 35,263 104,629 24
Unique Community Charity Balance Sheet/Statement of Financial Acticities for the year ended 31 March 2025 Notes 2025 2024 € The assets and liabilities of the charity: ixed assel ffice equipme Total Fixed assets Current assets Prepayments Cash at bank and in hand Totat current assets Creditors:- amounts due within one year Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Net assets The funds of the charity: Accumulated fund Surplus/Deficit for the year Total charity funds 10 11 12 13 114,096 114,096 (4,066) 5,186 5,186 110,030 115,216 115,216 104,629 10,586 115,216 104,181 104,181 (3,481) The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on _ January 2026 and signed on their by:- 3,930 3,930 100,700 104,630 104,629 .. 35,263 69,366 104,629 E Davily Trustee - Erina Davidenko The notes on pages 11 to 15 form part of these financial statements. Trustee - Asta Marshall 25
• Unique Community Charity Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 1 Accounting policies 1.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Siatement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006. The charity has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland': the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows; the requirement of Section 3 Financial Statement Presentation paragraph 3.17(d): 11.47, 11.48(a)(iii), 11.48(a)(iv), 11.48(b) and 11.48(c); the requirements of Section 12 Other Financial instruments paragraphs 12.26, 12.27, 12.29(a), 12.29(b) and 12.29A; 1.2 Charity status 1.3 Fund accounting The Charity is registered with the charities commission. The members of the charity are the Trustees named on page 1. restricted funds are available for use at the discretions of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the chari esignated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for particular purposes. Restricted funds are subject to restrictions their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of an appeal. 1.4 Incoming resources All incoming resources donation and fundraising event income are included when the charily is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. 1.5 Resources expended Expenditure is accounted on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates. Costs of generating funds are costs incurred in attracting voluntary income, and trading activities that raise funds. Governance costs are costs incurred on the Charity's operations, including support costs and costs relating to the govemance of the Charity apportioned to charitable activities. 1.6 Fixed Assets Fixed assets are stated at original historical cost less aggregate depreciation. Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life: Eixtures, fittings and equipment 1] 25% per annum on reducing balance Small items of equipment costing under £150 were charged to the cost centre in the Statement of Financial Activities. 1.7 Other debtors Other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. 1.8 Cash at Bank and in hand Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. 26-29
Unique Community Charity Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 1.9 Liabilities and provisions Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance Sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilties are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of maney is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liabilty. The unwinding of the discount is recognised within interest payable and similar charges. 1.10 Going concern We have a reasonable expectation that we have adequate resources to continue in operation existence for the foreseeable future. We believe that there are no material uncertainties that call to doubt the Chanity's ability to continue. The financial statements have therefore been prepared on basis that the Charity is going concem. 1.11 Financial instruments loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. • . 1.12 Financial Commitment A commitment is an obligation of a company to external entities that often arises in connection with the legal contracts executed by the charity. 1.13 Taxation 2 Voluntary income As the charity is a registered charity, it is exempt from the need to file a tax retum as its income is derived from charitable acticities Donations Total Restricted Unrestricted - Funds Funds 241,939 241,939 16,553 16,553 Total Funds 2025 258,491 258,491 Total Funds 2024 € 218,866 218,866 26-29
Unique Community Charity Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 7 Charitable activities Freelance work Project work Arts & Crafts materials Total Expenses and Support costs Rent Wages Equipment Office exp/Stationery Phone Independent Examiner fee Accountancy / Payroll fees Voluntary Expenses Training/DBS Trustee's exp Insurance Subscriptions Govemance Depreciation - Office equipment 2025 72,479 16,822 781 90,082 2025 2024 51,378 8,258 2,016 61,652 2024 - : 157,823 87,847 9 Trustees' remuneration and expenses No trustees received any remuneration or reimbursement of expenses during the year. (2024: NIL) No trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any contract or transaction entered into by the charity during the year (2024: NIL). 10 Tangible fixed assets Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 Depreciation At 1 April 2024 Charge for the year At 31 March 2025 Net book value At 31 March 2024 At 31 March 2025 11 Debtors Prepayments Office equipment 7,252 2,559 9,811 3,322 12030- 3,930 5,186 Total € 7,252 7,252 3,322 1,303 4,625 3,930 5,186. - 26-29
Unique Community Charity Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 12 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year PAYE Pension payable Accruals and deferred income Total 13 Analysis of the Net Movement in Funds Balance at 1 April 2024 Incoming resources Resources expended Balance at 31 March 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds € 49,705 16,553 - 66,258 € 54,924 241,939 247,905 48,958 2,748 358 960 4,066 Total Contribution 104,629 258,491 247,904 115,216 1,961 620 900 3,481 General Funds 2024 € 35,263 218,866 149,500 10,625 26-29
Unique Community Charity Schedule to the Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 March 2025 Unrestricted Funds 2025 € Restricted Funds 2025 Incoming Resources from generated funds Voluntary Income Incoming resources of a revenue nature Voluntary Income Total Grants, Legacies & Donations Received Total Voluntary Income 16,553 16,553 16,553 241,939 241,039 241,939 Total Incoming Resources 16,553 241,939 Charitable expenditure Freelance fees Project expenses Arts& Crafts Materials : Charitable activities 72,479 16,822 781 90,082 Governance costs that are not direct management functions inherent in generating Funds, service delivery and programme or project work including management and administration costs) Specific expenses and support costs Rent Wages Equipment Office exp/Stationery Phone Independent Examiner fee Accountancy / Payroll fees Voluntary Expenses Training/DBS Trustee's exp Insurance Subscriptions/Memberships Goverance/Policy Depreciation - plant and machinery Total Resources expended 18,279 128,430 400 1,621 1,328 960 420 1,930 1,377 745 - 566 464 1,303 157,823 247,905 10,586 Surplus/(deficit) for the year Total Funds 2025 258,491 258,491 258,491 258,491 72,479 16,822 781 90,082 Prior Period Total Funds 2024 218,866 218,866 218,866 218,866 51,378 8,258 2,016 61,652 18,279 128,430 400 1,621 1,328 960 420 1,930 1,377 745 566 464 1,303 157,823 247,905 10,586 16,921 61,667 2,593 958 900 546 2,205 304 658 520 575 87,347 149,500 69,366 30