REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 03889382 (England gnd Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY f4UMBER.. 1080838 REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND UNAUDtrED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 3 1ST MARCH 2024 FOR WILD GRoLfND M. D. Coxey and Co. LiTllited Chartered Accountants 25 Grosvenor Road Wrexham LLII IBT
WILD GROUND CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENts FOR THE YEAR ENDED 3 1ST MARCH 2024 Page Report of the Trustees Independent Examinevs Report Statcment of Financial Activities Balance Sheet 9 10 10 Cash Flow Staletnenl Notes lo the Cash Flow Statement 12 Notes to the Financial Statements 13 10 19
WILDGROUND REPORT OF TFIE-I IIUS"I LIS FOR TI.IE I"EAR END CH 2024 The Iruslee5 who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial slaleinenls of the charily for the year ended 31 sl March 20?4. Tlie Iruslecs have adopted tlie provisions of Aecounlillg aiid Reporting by Charilics.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable lo charities preparing their accounts in aceordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102) (effcctivc l January 2019). OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Obmeetives and aitll5 Our fftission is lo engage. inspire and enthuse local communities, acting together lo protect wildlife, and enhance habita15 and cco-systeffl5. Our airns are.. i. ro provide opportunities lo all members of the community lo ¢onnect with and lo value their local wildlife,. 2. To provide ecological training, providing learning opportunitiC5 for personal and professional skills developtnenl. 3. crwale opportunities and provide support for a diverse raiige of volunteers- 4. conserve habitats for Ilie benefit of amphibiaii and reptile populations and other endangered wildlife. Each year the Irustees of the charity review the objectives and activities of thc charity to eiisure they continue lo reflect the wtns of thc charity. ACIIIEVEMENT AND PERFORfvL4NCE CharitAble actii'ities The Trustees are mindful of the Charity Commission's requirement lo report on public benefit and the following summary of achievements and perfomanee indicates how our activities contribute towards the public benelil. It was another busy year with full engagement with schools, local communities, and other beneficiaries as well as with our volunteers, creating opportunities for all to understand, connect with and value Ihcir local environment and wildlife. The naiTalive which follows provides an account of Wild Ground's principal activities, a5 well as examples of its achievements during the year. Wild Ground owns fifteen nature reserve siles which are grouped into thirteen reserves for management purposcs. Most of Iht siles were taken on as miligalion siles foi great crested iiewt5. We manage the sites in a way which benefits wider biodiversity. Funds for the long-tern) managetnenl of these siles are made available via a onc-olf paytnenl from the developer at the point of site transfer and are based on an agreed management plan. In addition lo thcsc land management funds four siles attract payment of rent charges from house owners. As well as owned sites. Wild Ground Tnanages two site% with an atnphibian and reptile interest on belialf of the site owners. Work on tliese 511es 15 funded directly by the site own¢r5. The work is managed and caiTied out by our Reserves Team, which comprises Ilie Head of Contracts and Project Delivery, and a5mall team of Reserves Officers. Some of the reserves have public footpaths and pemiissive footpaths which enable local communities lo access and enjoy their local reserves. Wild Ground runs a full and varied volunteering programme. enabling local communities lo support Wild Ground's work. get to know the reserves belter and engage in personal and professional development. Wild Ground holds occasional publi¢ events at sites that do not have open public access to engage with local communities and enable them lo learn more about the nature reserves. Wild Ground has for many years managed the Rhydymwyn Valley Nature Reserve {RVNR} site on behalf of Defra under a leTrdered contract. Since 2019 the contract had been Subject to a series of fixed-lem] extensions, while Defra reviewcd the future ownersliip of the site aliead of forillal conlracl retender. The restrictions and complications arising from the pandetnic added to the delay. This contracted work provides a significant proportion of Wild Ground's turnover and work a¢tivity- W¢ were veiy pleased to win the tnost recent lender with an award of contract for one year from October 2022 and to be extended for a furtlicr year from October 2023, with the potenlixl for extension for a further year after that. Exarnples of Wild Ground's achievements during 2023-24 are sel out below. An81 Survey of Great Crested Newts The 2nnu81 survcy of great crested newts took place in April and May 2023 and was completed in line with contract and SSSI requiretnenls. The survey season is a major undertaking for Wild Ground requiring staff lo work night shifts. Ihrough careful planning wc succeeded in carrying out our survey obligations as well as maintaining our regular work Page I
WILD tiROUND REPORT OF THE TRIJS'I-EES E l-LrlR ENDED 3 1ST N,IARCH ?024 with voluiTrteer5 and schools and delivering our contractual obligations al our various nature reservc siles. Newt NetFvorks In early 2023 we were delighted to be awarded £250k funding by the Nalurc Network5 Fund (a Welsh Government grant programme delivered by the National Lotlery Development Fund) to support our Newt Networks programme which started on I, April 2023 and will exteiid over three years. By working in partnership and involving communities the programme aims to increase the resiliciice of the network of all our protected sites iii Northeast Wales. The Wild Ground team are engaging with local communities, schools, and volunteers with the aim of making our sile habitats more iesilient and incrcasiiig nature connectivity. A wide range of enjoyable, accessible engagement acliviiies to suit varied interests, abilities and access needs are being delivcred. Tlic programme also includes capital investment in sites lo deliver habitat improvement, especially for great crested newts, and support partner neighbouring sitcs to improve connectivity. In the wiiiler months capital works were delivered at Maes y Grug (pond creation), Knowle Hill (pond restoration, scrub management, and fencing), Spon Green (poiid restoration), and Glascoed (pond restoration}. All Ihe capital works were designed to improve and expand suitable habitats for newts on the sites. Woodlalld Weline55 Funded by Landfill Tax gTant secured in 20?2_23, this projccl has focused on woodland improvements al our Broughion, Knowle Hill and Maes y GTug reserves. The project has engaged volunteers lo carry out woodland management. Volunteers have supported staff with tree planting, hedge laying and woodland thinning. Monthly wellbeing events have been held, including walks, bushcraft, and craft sessions. The project concluded in November 2023. Rhydymsryn Valley Nature Reserve Staff have continued lo manage and deliver the contract for this Defra owned sile. The contract 51ipulale5 a range of site management prescriptions and survey requirements. The conlrdct is managed by Dcfra with montlily liaison meetings. In addition lo an annual report, we are also required to report against KPIS and produce survey data at regular intervals. The most recent contract was awardcd in October 2023 for one year with potential annual extensions for a further two years. The first of the annual extensions ha5 been secured. General Reserve Managemetkt General reserve management has continued across our network of sites. Our team of reserves officers work across sites lo ensure they arc tnaintained safely and provide the best habitat for our range of supported species, The team provide a range of voluntecr opportunities for local cotnmunities, deliver educational sessions lo local schools, and organise events throughout the year. Work has been prioritised across all siles based on conlraclual obligations, project aims and coffltnitments, and safely requirements. Priority siles with a designation or linked to a eontrael are maintained lo a good or excellent standard. while other siles are tnainlained to a moderate or good standard. The focus of reserve management through the year included grassland management, access improvements, pond management, tice managefflenl, clcaring invasive species, and infrastructure improvements such as fencing, bridge repairs and drainagc. As regards 51tc and trcc safety, monthly safely checks have becn recorded digitally using a mapping system, allowing staff to report issues directly via site maps, pinpointing Ihc location accurately. We plan to Use this 5ySt¢tn for tree safety checks in due course. Volunteering Support from our volunteers is vital to enable us to catry out some of our projects, it also enables us lo engage local people in practical conservation ii'ork which brings immediate bencfits to the local area and long-lemi benefits with increased local knowledge, enihusiasin and participant confidence and wellbeing. The monetary value of this contribution can be used to match ndIng received from outside sources lo maximise the benefits financially and in lemis of work completed on the ground. Performance Measures Trees Planted Square melres of land Improved / maintained Volunteers Waste Rcmoved from Public Spaces (kg) Actual 15 277,000154?,000 325 870 Page 2
WILD OROUND REPORT OF THE TRU81'bES I"HE l-EItR ENDED 3 1ST fvlJiRCH 2024 Fif4ANCIAL REVIEIV Financial p051tion The Iruslees have reviewed Ihc Cliarity's need for reserves in line iviih the Charity Commission guidelines and the Group's Management Plan. Financial Forecast and Risk Assessment Policy. Given the Charity's dependence on a tnix of both contractual and discretionary grant income and to ensure that the Charity can run efficiently and lo enzblc it to discharge ils chaFilable duties, il is ¢onsidered prudent lo maintain unrestricled reserves of no less than three months of unrestricted expenditure. These are to cover costs sucli as salaric5, repairslreplacements, and potential other employment c0515. In the past this level of reserves has been shown lo be sufficicnt lo absorb unexpected setbacks and 5hort-term fluclualions such as the mismaleh between expenditure and discretionary grant income. In addition, the trustees anlicipale having to absorb the shortfall between expenditure and income with regards lo the managed siles and specific projects provided for in the reslrieled reserves.. thc unrestricted reserves need lo be maintained lo cover the anticipated shortfall. Unrestricted reserves as at 31 st March 2024 amounted 10 £227,049 Pritieipal fllllding Sources The Charity has a varicly of funding streams which vary frotn short terni to long term. This year the primary sources included continuing payments from Defra in respect of the Rhydymwyn nature reserve. The Charity also rcceives land management fund5 from developers lo cover the long-temi management Costs of nature reserves. These funds are calculated based on the management plan of the site over a 15-year period and paid a5 a lump sum lo the Charity which il retains as deferred income. This enables the Charity lo draw down annual amounts for most of its nature reserves which il then uses for conservation management and eomtnunily work5 On the sites. Oilier income sources i nclude tnanagemenl contracts, eonsuliancy, ground rent and property charge5, and interest on bank deposits. as well as small aTnounts derived from donations and fundraising activities. Total income for the year 2023-24 was £366,428. The main funding sources have been.. National Lottery Cliaritablc grants Public sector Private Sector 129,789 78,683 69,884 88,072 These figures allow for accrued and deferred income from all funding sources. FINANCIAL REVIEM, InTr'estment policy and objectives The Iruslees invest the Charity's funds in accordance with ils investment policy which complies with the regulations and guidelines laid down by Ihc Trustee Act 2000 (or a slalulory re-enaetment or modification of that Act) and legally binding restrictions as set out in the transfer documents of some siles. As previously advised, following a significant injection of cash arising from the successful conclusion of the Lane End nature reserve transfer deal with Redrow Home5 (North Wesl) Ltd the trustees decided io invest £600k of Wild Ground's total ¢a5h balances (all restricted reserve5) in a balanced and relatively low risk eiliical investment portfolio comprising bonds, gills, and shares, with the strategic objective to al least maintain purchasing power over the longer period by earning appropriate retums. Following a competitive selection process, Canaccord Genuity (CG) were appointed as our investment manager in March 2022. The two years which followed have seen turbulent times in the financial markets, because of the conflicts in the Ukraine and Middle East, higli inflation, and political and economic inslabilily. Ai 31 March 2024, thc valLLe of the investment portfolio stood ai £563k a reduction of £37k from the original investment sum but an increase of £1 Ok Over the equivalent 2023 valuation. Regular meetings continue lo be held with CG to monitor their perfomance and the Cl¢acY of the investment strategy with a view lo further recovering ground and eaming the targeted returns in the longer term. A fomial review of arrangements is planned for the first quarter of 2024_25 To earn fiirther retums from Wild Ground s cash holdings £IOOk continues to be held on deposit in an interesl-bearing Naiwest Treasury reserve account on a rolling fixed tem) basis, and a further £55k in a Naiwest 35-day acce55 account which also yields interest. Sufficient li4uidily lias beeii relaiiied lo meet the organisalion s working capital and foreseeable day-lo-day needs and the balance of Wild Ground'5 cash al 31st March 2024 reimained on instant access in a current account and a gold aceounl Page 3
'ILD GROUND REPOR'I- ()F I'HE TRLISTFES FOR I"HE I'ÈAR ENDED 31ST lARcH2O?4 wiill CAF Bank, with a further .u in a Natwest current account. FtrruRE DE1'ELOPIEIYFS The Cliarily reco(Tnises the need to continue lo work closely with partners and communities lo ensure funding streams are maintained and aims and objectives are mel. Whilst the Charity is continually 51riving lo se¢ure funding lo meet it5 immediate needs, il also recognises the need lo diversify funding streams and cre2tc ir0vatIve projects lo secure incoTne and lo capture the support of the local communities il serves lo ensure its eonlinuing viability. To this end the Charity continues lo consuli with other third sector oi'ganisations, charities, and communities il already works with in addition to new community groups to examinc how il can better serve local needs. MÉndful of the economic climate and the impact this is having on grant nding, the Charity is also pursuing closer collaboration with like-minded charities. It 15 hoped that developing closer working relationships with our partners, as well as developing new partnerships, will enable us to pool existing skills and knowledge as well as to work together on projects and fundraising for the benefit of partners and local communities alike. Business plan priorities 20?4-25 The tru51ees of Wild Ground continue lo pursue the following business plan priorities as part of a 51ralegy for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Charity-. To increase and diversify funding stream5, 2. To develop internal and external relationships via a fit for purpose governing document and a review of our membership olfer. and To build capllcity wiihill the organisation to grow and develop our service offer and the skills of our specialist team to deliver outcomes in pursuit of Wild Ground's mission. The inveslillent arrangements for Wild Ground's portfolio of investments will be rcviewed in the first quarter of the yellr. The GIVNW Groiip's strateoic plan for 2024-27 ineludcs the following 5tralegic goal for Wild Ground.. To cliampion nature conservation through positive and proactive land management and help more people lo experience and value open spaccs STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANACEMENT Governing Document The Charity 15 controlled by its goveming document, the Mcmorandum and Articles of A550cialion incorporated 6 December 1999, as amended by special resolutions dated 19 July 2005, 2 Decctnbcr 2014, 28 Novembcr 2016, 28 February 2019, and 6 October 2021, and constitutes a limited cotnpany, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006. Governance Revie A compiehensive review of the governance ofwild Ground and the other members of the GWNW Group was conducted in 2020-21 using the framework for governance reviews issued by the parent company. While the findings were generally positive, sever21 improvement actions were identified whieh were approved by the Board and were progressively implemented witli completion in 2023. Recruitment and Appointmenl of New Triistees Fol lowing an amendment to the Articles in February ?019, Trustees Can be appointed by the memberfs) ai a general meeting. The members are mindful ot" their responsibilities towards trustee recruitment and regularly review the recruitment policy, as well as the induction and training oftered to new Trustees. A further amendment was made to the Articles in October ?0? I lo align the appointment lernis of Trustees with the three years which applies lo the TNslees of Groundwork North Wales, the holding company. OrgAnisation&l Review Duriiig tlie period of this report, Wild Ground has been effectively managed by a Board of Trustees who are responsible for the overall governance of the Charity, ils financial stability and strategic directioii. For thc sake of administrative efficiency and except for the AGM and when otherwise determined, the governance and business of Wild Ground is conducted under the un]brella of the GWNW Group Board which meets on a quarterly basis. by GWNW'5 Finance aiid Human Resources Sub-Group which inee15 iii Ihc period between Board meetings, while risk assurance is overseeii by the Group Board's Risk Assiirance Sub_Group. Day lo day responsibility for the operational running of Wild Ground is delegated to the Head of Contracts and Project Pag¢ 4
II'ILD GROUND REI)()R T OF TI IF TRIJSTF..F.S FIE YEAR ENI)ED 31 S"[ MARCII 20?4 Delivery, who line manages, supervi5cs, and Inonitors work programmes undertaken by a team of 6 slaft. Truslecs are presented with regular progress report5 on servi¢es and activities as well as financial reports; they exercise scrutiny and approve budgets. Trustees also take responsibility for the development and approval of all company policies and procedure5 and for the recruitment and appointment of the most senior staff. Wild Ground is a subsidiary of Groundwork North Wales and benefits froin Ilie support of the parent's back-office fvnclions in Finance, Busincss Devclopment, IT and Sales & Marketing, as well a£ sharing accommodation and the associated co.4ts. Related PArtie5 Wild Grouiid collaborates with a wide range of paitners al local, regional, and national level. These include public bodics and other third sector organisalions. The purp05c of tliis col laboi'ation is to develop new projects and services, to Secure additional resources and lo represent the third sector. A register of interests is kept, and the declaration of any potential conflicts is invited al each trustee meetiiig. Risk I1gement The trustees have a duly lo identify and review the risks lo wliich the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place lo providc reasonable assurance against fraud and error. The controls that are in place to reduce the likelihood of risk occurring include.. l. Having strong financial controls and procedures in place, 2. Having a reserve policy in place, 3. Taking appropriate and timely financial advice. Statement of public benefit The Objects of Wild Ground as stated in the Memorandum and Articles of Association are.. lo promote and assist in the prescrvation and conservation of land in thc arca5 of benefit (as defined below) Ivhich is of educational or scientific interest lo the general public, including land within which the wildlife 15 in need of protection and including the improvcment and maintenance of public parks, aiid lo educate the public in all matters conceming wildlife and nature conservation. The areas of benefit are Wales and England. The trustee5 have taken note of the Charity Commission's guidance on 'public benefit, and trust that this report reflects that guidance. Wild Ground discharges ils re4ponsibilily under'public benefit, by working primarily in North East Wales to engage, inspire and enthusc local communities acting together, lo protect wildlife, and enhance habita15 and eco- systems as set out iii 'Objective5 and Activities,. Pag¢ 5
NI'ILD CJRI)IJND REPI)RT OF TI IF TRLISTEI% FOR THE Tr'E*lR ENDFD 31 ST [ARCH 20?4 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Company lluber 03889382 (England and Wales} Registered Charity niimber 1080838 Registered office 3-4 Plas Power Road Tanyfron Wrexham LLI 15SZ Trustees S V Mooi'e Retired M Booker Retired H E Wright Retired N F Reader Retired Independent Examiner Joanne Evans FCCA, ACA M. D. Coxey and Co. Limited Chartered Accountants 25 Grosvenor Road Wrexham LLI I IBT Approved by order of the board of trustees on 28, November 2024 and signed on its behalf by.. N F Reader - Trustee Page 6
INDEPENDENT ELWINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF WILD GROUND Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Wild Ground ('tlie Company,) I report lo the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 sl March 2024. Responsibilities and basis of report As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of cotnpany law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in aecordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('thc 2006 Act,). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company arc not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section l45 of the Charilie.s Act ?01 l {'the 2011 A¢l'). In carrying out my examination I have followed thc Directions given by the Chariiy Cotntni5sioii under section 145{5) (b) of the 2011 Act. Independent examiner's statement Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can Confirni that I am qualified lo undertake the examination because l am a registered metnbcr of FCCA, ACA which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I confim) that no matter5 have come lo my attention in connection with the exainination giving me cause to believe.. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act. or the accounts do not accord with those records,. or the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination,. or the accounts have not beeli prepared in accordance with the meih(Kis and principles of the Statement of Recommendcd Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable lo charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 10?)). I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of thc accounts to be reached. Joanne Evans FCCA, ACA M. D. Coxey and Co. Limited Chartered Accountants 25 Gr05venor Road Wrexham LLII IBT Dale: 28 November 2024 Page 7
WILD GROUND ST A TF.M_F.NT fbF FTN.ANC!.41 .ArfiyTTTEq tNCORPOIiATING AN TNCOME AND EXPENDI'fuRE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2024 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestrictcd Restricted funds Notes INCOANIE Af*D ELYDOWLWIENTS FROLVI Donatiolls and legacies 154,187 208,472 362,659 238,993 Investment income 3,769 3,769 539 Total 157,956 208,472 366,428 239,53? EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Salaries and Wages Office Expcn5es (Surplus)/Loss on invcstment revaluation 57,129 88.883 89.0?4 89,038 {9,963) 146,153 177,922 (9,963) 103,096 152,727 46.859 Total 146,013 168,099 314,111 302,682 NET INCOME 11,943 40,373 52,316 (63,150) RECONCILIATiof4 OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 215,106 871,186 1,086,292 1,149,442 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 227 049 911,559 1,138,608 1,086,29? The notes lonn part vf these r]nancial slaletnents Page 8
wtLD GROUND B.4LANTCE SHEET 31ST MARCFI 20?4 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestricted Restricted funds funds Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets Heritage assets 10 28,780 28,780 305,044 30,169 305,044 335,213 305,044 28,780 305,044 333,824 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Investments Cash al bank and in hand 12 13 74,174 74.174 563,104 280.893 563,104 64.328 553,141 226,306 216,564 290,738 627,432 918,170 859,049 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 14 (20.889) (20,889) (22,128) NET CURRENT ASSETS 269,849 627.432 897,?81 836,921 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURIiENT LIABILITIES 298,629 932,476 1,231,105 1,172,134 ACCRUALS AND DEFERRED INCOME 15 (71,580) (20,9171 (92,497) (85,842) NET ASSETS 2?7.049 911,559 1,138,610 1,086.292 FUNDS Unrestricted funds Reslricled funds 16 227,049 911,559 215.106 871,186 TOTAL FUNDS 1,138,608 1,086,292 The charitable company is enliiled to exetnplion from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st March 2024. The members have not r4uir¢d the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 3 1st March 2024 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustee5 acknowledge their responsibilities for (a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting record5 that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and (b) preparing financial slalements which give a true and fair view of the slate of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of ils surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with Ihc requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with tlie requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating lo fiiiancial statements, so far as applicable lo the charitable eotnpany. The notes tomi part of the5¢ linancial stat¢rnent5 Page 9
Thc5e financial Statement. have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable lo charitable companies subject to the small coinpanies regime. Tlie finaiicial .statements were approved by Ihc Board of Trustees aiid auihorised for issue on 28tli November 2024. aiid were signed on its behalf by.. N F" Reader - 'I'rustee The notes fomi part ofthLSL finanLial stdtements Page 10
WILD GROUND C A SH FLni31 ST.4TENFFIT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST NL4RCH 2024 31.3.24 31.3.23 Notes Cash floivs from operating aetivities Cash generated frotn opeialions 58,503 36.548) Net cash provided by operating activities 58,503 36,548) Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of tangible fixed assets Purchase of heritage assets Sale of tangible fixed assets Purchase of other investments Interest received {7,685} (14,163) 275 3,769 539 Net cash (used in)Iprovided by investing activities 13,349) Change in eA5h and c25h equivalents in the reporting period Cash and cash equivaleiit5 at the beginning of the reportiiig period 54,587 (49,897) 226,306 276,203 Cash and eash equivalents at the end of the reporting period ?80,893 2?6,306 The tJotC5 tonn part of these fjnantial $thMen Page 11
WILD GROUND NnTES TO T[ C.4QH FLOIII STdTEhffjENrr FOR TFIE YEAR ENDED 31 ST MARCH 2024 RECONCILI.4TION& OF NET INCOTrIE TO P4ET CASH FLOW FROINI OPERATINI G ACTIVITIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Net income for the Teporting period (as per the Statement of Financial Aetivities) Adjustmellt5 for: Deprceiation charges Iiiterest received Increasal{Decrease) in group creditor Decrease/(increase) in Investmcnts Decrease in stocks Decreasel(increase) in debtors (Decrease)/incrcase in creditors 52,316 (63,150) 9,074 (3,769) (1,617) (9,963) 5,708 (539) (59,?53) 46,859 5,4?8 7,034 54,311 20,486) Net cash provided by operations 58.503 (36,548) ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS At 1.4.23 Cash flow Ai 31.3.24 Net cash Cash at bank and in hand 226,306 54,587 280,893 226,306 54,587 280,893 Liquid resources Deposits included in cash Current asset investments 553,141 9,963 563,104 553,141 Total 779,447 64,550 843,997 The notes fonn part of these financial 51at¢tn¢Dts Page 12
WLLD GROUND NOTES Tn THE Fr.TC1 A L ST.QTFTr4ENITS FOR THE YEAR ENDE.D 31ST MARCH 2024 Accouf*'TING POLICIES Basi5 of preparing the financial statements The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit enlily under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounling and Repoiting by Charities= Statement of Recommended Practice applicable lo charities preparing their accounis in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) {effective l January 2019),, Financial Reporting Standard 102'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic ol Ircland, and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepaied under tlie historical cost Convention, as modified by the revaluation of certain assets. The company's presentational currency is pound sterling. Income All income is recognised in tlie Sialement of Financial Aelivilies once the eharily has entitlement lo the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can bc measured reliably. Expellditure Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the ¢harity to that expenditure, il is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and thc amount of the obligation can be mc&%ured reliably. Expenditure 15 accounted for on an accruals basis and has been elassified under headings that aggregate all cost related lo the calcgory. Where costs cannot be directly attributed lo particular headings they have been allocated lo activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Tangible fixed assets Depreciation is provided al the following annual rates in order to write off cach asset over its estimated useful life. Plant and machinery Fixtures and fillings Motor vehicles Computer equipment 20 /0 on cost 33 % on cost 20 % on cost 20 /0 on cost Heritage assets The charity's aeeounting policy for ils heritage asse15 15 lo value at cost where a site has been purchased or al fair value for donated siles. At present all siles have been acquired through section 106 agreements with local authorities. The charity ha5 adopted the policy under FRS 102 section 18.19 10 treat the initial valuation as deemed cost. No depreciation is provided in respect of frechold land. Stocks Stocks are valued at the lowcr of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items. Investments Inleresl-bearing bank deposit5 are held al cash value. Longer terni investments are slated at the relevant market valuation. Taxation The charity is exempl from corporation lax on its charitable aciivilies. Fund accounting Unreslricled funds can be uscd in accordance with the charitable objectives at the di5¢retion of the trustees. Reslricled funds can only be used for particular reslrictcd purposes within the objects of the charity. Reslricltons arise whcn specificd by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notcs to the financial 51alements. Pension costs and other post-retirement benefjts The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable lo the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Finaiicial Activitics in the period to which they relate. Page 13
WILD GROUND NOTE% Tn TFI_F FtN.ANTfT.AT ST.4TFMENTS - ponlinued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST fvLcH ?0?4 DOP4ATIONS AND LEGACIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Donations Grants Rent charge Land management 24 208,472 4,050 150,113 507 68,444 4,731 165,311 362,659 238,993 Grants received, included in the above, are as follows.. 31.3.24 31.3.23 WCVA Heritage Lottery Groundwork UK Swire Charitable Trust Poslcode Community Trust 48,125 129,789 2,998 2,576 24,983 32,721 35,723 208,471 68,444 INVESTMEpif INCOME 31.3.24 31.3.23 Deposit account interest 3,769 539 CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS Direct Costs Support costs (see note 5) Totals Salaries and Wages Office Expenses (Surplus)/Loss on investmcnt revaluation 146,153 173,162 l46,153 177,922 9.963 4,759 309,352 4,759 314,111 SUPPORT COSTS Govcrnancc Costs Office Expenses 4,759 NET INCOMEI(EXPENDITURE) Nel income/(expendilure) is slated after chargingl(crediling)'. 31.3.24 31.3.23 Depreciation - owned asse15 9,074 5,709 Page 14
WILD GROUND NnTFS Tn THF. FIN.4NCI.41. gT A TFMFNTS _ nrtD.tinued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH ?0?4 TRUSTEES, REMUNERATION Af4D BENEFITS There were no Irustces, remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 3 Isl March 2024 nor for the year ended 31 sl March 2023. Trustees, expenses There were no trustees, expenses paid for the year cnded 3 1st March 20?4 nor for the year ended 3 1st March 2023. STAFF COSTS 31.3.24 31.3.23 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 133,326 8,234 4,592 93,736 6,124 3,236 146,153 103,096 The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: 31.3.24 31.3.23 Office, management & operational No employees received emoluments in exeess of £60.000. COMPèiRATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Unrestricted Restricted funds funds Total funds INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 170.549 68,444 238,993 Other trading activities Investment income 539 539 Total 171.088 68,444 239.532 EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Salaries and Wages Office Expenses Loss on Investment Revalllaiion 62,811 109,845 40,285 42,882 46,859 103,096 152,727 46,859 172,656 130,026 302,68? Total NET INCOME (1,568) (61,582) (63,150) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 216,674 932,768 1.149,44? TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 215,106 871,186 1,086.292 Page 15
WLLD GROUND NOTF.S T(I THF FtNANflAI STATFMF.rS _ cnntinlied FOR TFLE YEAR ENDED 3 1ST MARCH 20?4 10. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Itnprovemenls to property Fixtures and fittings Plant and machinery COST Ai I st April 2023 Additions Di%posals 10,459 58,833 4,369 11.232 Al 3lsl Mar¢h 2024 10,459 63.202 DEPRECIATION Ai I sl April 2023 Charge for year 4,890 1,046 58,833 874 11.232 At 31 st March 2024 5,936 NET BOOK VALUE Ai 31st March 2024 4,523 3,496 At 31st March 2023 5.569 Motor vchicles Computer equipment Totals COST Ai 1st April 2023 Addition5 Disposals 36,475 2,832 16,579 483 133,578 7,685 At 3 1st hlareh 2024 39,307 141,263 DEPRECIATION At Isl April 2023 Charge for year 11,875 7,033 16,579 121 103,409 9,074 At 31 st March 2024 18,908 16,700 112,483 NET BOOK VALUE At 3 1st March 20?4 20,399 362 28,780 At 3151 March 2023 24,600 30,169 11. HERITAGE ASSETS Total MèiRKET VALUE At I st April 2023 and 31" March 2024 305,044 NET BOOK VALUE Al 31 st March 2024 305,044 At 31 st March 2023 305,044 The directorb have valued the Heritage Assets having sought advice. Page 16
WILD GROUND N(ITF.S To THF. FtNANCIAI. STATFMENTS _ continued FOR TFIE YEAR ENDED 31ST MRCH ?0?4 12. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE IVITHIN ONE IIAR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Tradc debtors Amoiinls owed by group undertakings Accrual incuine Prepayments 13,843 43,320 16,780 231 15,452 43,320 19,638 1,192 74,174 79,602 13. CURREIYT ASSET INVESTMEf4TS 31.3.24 Other 563,104 553,141 14. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Trade creditors Amounts owed to group undertakings VAT 334 12,687 4,830 3,038 4,134 14,304 728 2,962 Accrued expenses 20,889 22,128 15. ACCRUALS AND DEFERRED INCOME 31.3.24 31.3.23 Accrua15 and deferred income 92,497 85,842 16. MOVEMEf4T IN FUNDS Net movement iii funds At 1.4.23 31.3.24 Unrestricted funds Group Fund 215,106 11,943 227,049 Restricted funds Reslricled Fund 871.186 40,373 911,559 TOTAL FUNDS 1,086,292 52,316 1,138,608 Nel movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in funds Unrestricted funds Group Fund 157,956 146,013 11,943 Restricted fiinds Re51ricled Fuiid 208,472 168,099 40,373 TOTAL FUNDS 366,4?8 314,111 52,316 Pugi 17
WILD GROUND NnTF.S TO THF. FtNANCIAL %TATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH ?0?4 16. MO1MEr IN FUNDS - continued Coniparatives for niovemellt in funds Nel movement in funds Al 31.3.23 At 1.4.22 Unrestricted funds Group Fund 216,674 (1,568) 215,106 Restricted fund5 Restricted Fund 932,768 61,582) 871.186 TOTAL FUNDS 1,149,442 63,150) 1,086.292 Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows.. Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in funds Unrestricted funds Group Fund 171,088 (172,656) (1.568) Restricted funds Reslricled Fund 68,444 (130,026) (61,582) TOTAL FUNDS 239,532 (302,682} 63,150) A current year 12 month5 and prior year 12 month5 combined position is as follows.. Nel movement in funds At 31.3.24 Al 1.4.22 Unrestricted funds Group Fund 216,674 10,375 227,049 Restricted funds Restricted Fund 932,768 {2I,209) 911,559 TOTAL FUNDS 1.149,442 10 834) 1,138,608 A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows.. Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in funds Unrestrieted funds Group Fuiid 329,044 J18,669 10,375 Restricted funds Reslricled Fund 276,916 298,125 (21,209) TOTAL FUNDS 605,960 616,793 10.834) Unrestricted Reserve5 Group fund is an unrestricted reserve which represents the surplus amounts carried forward to future periods for general spending on sile maintenance and other costs determined by the Board of Tru%tees. The receipt of fundin(F has not been contingent on the resources being expended for any purpose other than that determined by the Board of Tru5tces. Page 18
WILD GROUND NOTES TO ThE FtNT,INnl.IT STATEThFNfFS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 ST fvL4RCH 2024 "ont,'nued 17. ULTIMATE PARENT COMPANY The company 15 under the control of Groundwork North Wales, the parent charity. Groundwork North Wales 15 a registered charity, number 1004132. Its Company Registration Number is 02614714. The charity has the following aims and objectives.. To promote the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment iiieluding that which is of educational or scientific interest lo the general public or witliin which the wildlife is in necd of protection and including the improvement and maintenance of public parks. To advancc publie education in environmental matters and in all matters concerning wildlife and nature consei'valion, in Ilie ways of beller conserving, proleeting, and improvkng Ilie same wlieresoever. To conserve and protect the physical and natural environnienl by promotion of sustainable waste management practices in accordance with the best practicable environmental option. The promotion for the benefit of the public of urban or rural regeneration of areas in social or economic deprivation, by relieving poverty or tinancial hardship through improving tlie employability of disadvantaged individuals through the provision of work placement, affordable childcare, trainin(F and volunteering opportunities, the Provision of quality affordable furniture and household goods, the provision of items such as food and energy ¢fficiency measures and energy efficiency advice. To provide facilities for recreation and other leisure-time occupation in the interests of social welfare with the object of improving the conditions of life for the persons for whom they are inleiided. To advance cultural well-being Ilirougli people's engagement with Ilie arts and Ilie nation's built and natural heritage. Groundwork North Wales has the same registered office a5 Wild Ground. 18. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS 31.3.24 31.3.23 Contracted bul not provided for in the financial statements 19. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES During the year, the charity purchased services and delivery and overhead recharges from the parent charity amounting lo £239,814 (2023: £192.586) and sold 5ervice5 and overhcad recharges lo the parent charity amounting lo £11,724 (2023: £11,669). During the year, the charity purchased services and delivery and overhead recharges from the Refurbs Flinlshire chai'ity amounting to £18.98 (2023.. nil) and 501d services and overhead recharges lo the Refurbs Flinlshire charity amounting lo £7,969 (2023- £7,969). 20. LEGAL STATUS OF THE CHARITY The charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. Every Tnember promises, if the charity is dissolved while they remain a member or within 12 months of their resignation as a member. to pay up to £1 towards the cost of dissolution and the liabilities incurred by the charity- Page 19