REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 03719730 (England and Wale51
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1081699
Re
ort of the Trustees and
Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024
for
LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Cooper Parry Advisory Limited
CUBO Birmingham
4th Floor
Two Chamberlain Square
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3AX

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Contents of the Financial Statements
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Page
Reference and Administrative Details
Report of the Trustees
Independent Examiner's Report
io
Statement of Financial Activities
li
Balance Sheet
12
Cash Flow Statement
13
Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
14
Notes to the Financial Statements
15 to 22

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Reference and Administrative Details
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Trustees
S Murray
M Short (Chairl
C J Atterbury (appointed 24110120231
L Haines Ire5igned 216120231
G J Handley Iresigned 518120231
M Naidoo (resigned 1917120231
C M West (resigned 23110120231
L Williams (appointed 17111120231
R L Collins lappointed 417120241
Registered offi
Hollymoor Centre
8 Manor Park Grove
Northfield
Birmingham
West Midlands
8315ER
Registered company number
03719730 (England and Wales)
Registered charity number
1081699
Independent examiner
Cooper Parry Advisory Limited
CUBO Birmingham
4th Floor
Two Chamberlain Square
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3AX
Page I

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
The Trustees, who are a150 Director5 of the Charity for the purposes of the Companie5 Act 2006. present their report with the
financial statement5 of the charity for the year ended 31 March 202. The Trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting
and Reporting by Charities= Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charitie5 preparing their accounts in accordance
with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 (effective l January 20151.
Structurei governance and management
Longbridge Childcare Strategy Group is a company limited by guarantee (company number 037197301 which was incorporated on
25 February 1999 and achieved charitable status on 21 July 2000 (number 10816991. It is governed by its Memorandum and
Articles of Association dated 25 February 1999, as amended by special resolution on 13 December 1999.
The Trustees who held office during the year and to the date of this report are as follows=
S Murray
M Short
C West
G Handley
M Naidoo
L Haines
L Williams
C J Atterbury
R L Collins
Appointed 02 December 2021
Appointed 02 December 2021
Appointed 28 July 2022
Appointed 09 January 2023
Appointed 18 January 2023
Appointed 16 January 2023
Appointed 17 November 2023
Appointed 24 October 2023
Appointed 4 July 2024
Resigned 23 October 2023
Resigned 05 August 2023
Resigned 19 July 2023
Resigned 02 June 2023
Page 2

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Objectives and artivities
Objectives and aims
Recruitment and appointment of new Trustees
Recruitment of Trustees has been particularly successful this year and we have recruited three additional board members from a
variety of professional background5 to reflect the need5 of the charrty. Having secured additional board members.
The current Trustees are full time professionals, some of whom have experience within the childcare field.
We continually encourage parents and individuals to become members of the committee, specifying the roles and
responsibilities required for the provision. This is undertaken via an interview with the panel, committing to a minimum of four
meetings per year and completing a DBS check.
Principal activity
The principal activity of the company continues to be the provision of quality, affordable childcare facilities and training for those
supplying care services. The welfare and development of the children is paramount within all of our activities, particularly at this
time.
Longbridge Childcare Strategy Group is a charity established in 1991. to be effective in Birmingham with particular reference to
the Longbridge Area and its environs (the Area of Benefit).
"To advance the education and development of young children within Longbridge in particular by the provision of a
comprehensive childcare setvice offering facilities for safe and satisfying play and to provide or to arrange for the provision of
such ancillary facilities and activities which are considered necessary or desirable for the fulfilment of the objects.
The Charity includes the following powers exercisable in furtherance of the said Objects, but not otherwise-
To advance, whether by training or otherwise, the knowledge and professional skills of those resident in the Area of
Benefit and concerned with the provision of childcare.
To provide practical help within the Centre services, rncludinL advice, assistance, service, support, advocacy and
information to meet the needs of those caring for children and to liaise with external bodies concerned with the
matters of childcare.
To promote, provide and carry on or assist in the promotion. provision and carrying on of facilities of any kind
pursuant to the objects and to arrange and hold meetings, conferences and lettures.
Activities April 2023- March 2024
2023 2024 has been an eventful year for Longbridge Childcare StrateEy Group, continuing our dedication to providing
high-quality child care and support for vulnerable children and their families in the South of Birmingham. This report reflects the
achievements, challenges, and milestones over the past year, as we continue to work towards creating a nurturing and safe
environment for every child in our care.
Our mission at Longbridge Childcare Strategy Group is to put 'Children First. by ensuring that every child has access to affordable,
high-quality childcare, and to support their development emotionally. 50cially. and academically. At our 3 childcare settings
Alphabets @ Hollymoor. Alphabets @ Hollyhill and Alphabets @ Cofton. we envision a world where every child. regardless of
background, can grow in a caring and supportive environment that fosters their full potential.
Alphabets @ Holly Hill Nursery has a Good grade from Ofsted. The nursery is due to move into the main Frankley Plus Children's
Centre building in April 2024 to continue being able to provide a stable and secure environmer)t for the children and families in
the area. Following the lease agreement with our current building not being renewed.
Alphabets @ Cofton has a Good grade from Ofsted. This provision is an Out of School club and Pre-school. Providing before and
after school care and holiday playscheme services which has continued to be popular with children and families attending the
adjoining primary school.
Alphabets @ Hollymoor gained a Good grade from Ofsted. continues to operate in the Hollymoor Centre. Working in partnership
with other childcare professionals and the local children's centres, to meet each child's individual needs.
Key Achievements in 2023- 2024
Growth in Reach: This year, we expanded our reach to serve more children and families than in previous years.
Page 3

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Early Childhood Oeveloprnent: The children that left our settings in July 2023 to go on to Primary Schools made positive Steps
towards Securing the Early Years Foundation Stage early learning goals. Our children showed improved cognitive and social skills,
preparing them for a strong start in school.
Training: We provided training for our staff team. This included First Aid. Safeguardin& Food Safety, Apprenticeship Schemes
supporting 5 new workers into the childcare workforce.
Nutritional Programs: With support of the Winter Food Aid, we ensured that 100% of the children using our childcare services
received nutritious snacks and meals, contributing to better health and well-being. A series of food hampers were also sent with
the parents I carers to help support the continual issue of low income families and the continual struggle of child poverty.
Support for Children with Special Educational Needs= Our settings identified a significant amount of children within our care as
having additional needs. These children were supported with a host of interventions to help them navigate their early years
experiences. This included targeted small group or 1-2-1 sessions to support listening and attention, speech and language
development, behaviour management strategies and emotional wellbeing. These interventions were able to be implemented by
the successful attainment of ISEY funding. This yea r we have had several successful ISEY funding claims.
Partnerships.. We continue to partner with Cofton Primary School to offer breakfast club and after school club care to 45 children
per week. We also continue to partner with Holly Hill School to provide breakfast club provision to 10 children per morning. We
also worked in conjunction to provide a wrap around service to the children that attended Holly Hill nursery.
Restructuring of Management: In August 2023 the Project Manager's job role changed with a focu5 on bid writing becoming their
primary focus and developing into a fully remote position.
The Finance & Operations Manager's role was tailored to her specific areas of expertise and focusing on the development of the
Hollymoor Centre within the local community, as a hub for community projects.
In November 2023 the recruitment of the Area Manager took place in which their role would be to oversee the day to day
running of the childcare settings sUPPOrting the setting based Managers.
Challenges and Learnings
Funding Constraints
The children that attend our settings are primarily funded by the Early Education Funding entitlement which was increased, but
unfortunately not at the rate in which the National Minimum Wage was increase(l. Therefore this prompted us to strengthen our
fundraising strategies and strengthen the need to call on the expertise of the projett manager as the bid writer.
Staffing Shortages
The childcare sector still continues to face staff shortages. To help counteract this we have worked in partnerships with local
colleges to provide their students with quality placements and therefore in turn helping us to recruit more qualified staff.
Impact of Econornic Conditions
Inflation and increased living cost5 affected both our families and operational expenses.
Future Goals
Expansion Plans
Now with the expansion of the Early Education Entitlement ft)r 9 month old funding coming into place from September
2024, we are going to expand by opening a new baby room within Alphabets @ Hollymoor nursery. aiming to increase
the number of children we currently care for by another 6 places being created.
Extend the age range that can be cared for at Alphabets @ Cofton to incorporate being able to look after children from
the age of 2 years.
Implementation of a nursery management app to help streamline processes within the nurseries.
Strengthening Partnerships
Build stronger relationships with local businesses and schools encouraging the usage of our nurseries by its stakeholders
and their linked parents I carers.
Continue to engage the community with fundraising events and volunteer opportunities.
Page 4

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Central Office - Negotiations regarding the Lease for the building were unresolved during this period and will now continue a5 a
priority for the next year. The condition of the building remains stable. LCSG has continued to cornplete emergency repairs as
and when neede d.
The centre has continued to See an increased uptake in communwty events to include crafts.exercise classes. meeting place for
the over 50,5 and a space for new mothers. We have identified the need for further grants and bids to maintain the building in
regard to the roof, heating and promoting a more eneigy efficient centre. We will be prioritising these actions over the next 2
years.
Management
The Board continued to work with staff throughout the year to investigate potential changes which could benefit the
organisation. Through consultation, priority was placed on building a larger Board which reflects the community and holds
specialisms which can support the development and growth of LCSG.
LCSG Priorities for this year were,.
To monitor and evaluate the services we provide on a regular basis in order to maximise the benefits we provide to
the individual children and young people in our care. their families and the local community.
To develop a whole family approach identifying services and funding opportunities which will support the needs of
the community.
To maintain the 'Good' quality of childcare services as graded by Ofsted.
To market LCSG services widely across the local areas.
To monitor Running Costs and FUndin￿1ncorne opportunities to maintain sustainability.
To improve and upgrade our IT facilities and online presence. Offer training and support for the team based on their
This Report has shown that we continue to maintain quality services and sUPPOrt children and families. We also worked in
partnership with other organisations and the Local Authority- The organisation continues to move forward optimistically with
plans for future growth and development.
Public benefit statement
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 4 of the Charrties Act 2011 to have due regard to the
Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit. 'Charities and Public Benefit,.
Page 5

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Objectives and artivities
Social Impact Report April 2023- Marth 2024
During this year LCSG has provided quality childcare and family support for families including disadvantaged children needing
special educational needs and safeguarding support. young adults. women. men. senior members of the community and single
parent5. Acces5 to these services ha5 been a powerful tool in addressing the effects from social disadvantage brought about by
poor housing and living in areas of poverty. We continue to work with those in our community who are isolated and vulnerable,.
this is typically those on the lowest incomes. By offering welfare support to the most irb need, quality childcare and family
support has enabled individuals to access work or training courses, increase their hours or take on new opportunities. This has
helped them to move out of poverty, improve their lives and enhance their children's long-term life chances.
LCSG have been active in Birmingham with a primary focus on Northfield West Heath and Frankly Great Park which the
Birmingham Indices of deprivation 2019 ranked as among the IO% most deprived areas nationally. The wards are faced with a
growing number of families living in poverty due to the cost-of-living crisis. We engage with these hard-to-reach families and
individuals offering a fun, safe but stimulating environment along with a programme of activities designed to foster a sense of
community and wellbeing.
LCSG has given extra social support to over 320 local families throughout the year. Our records show that 79% of the children
attracted Pupil Premium and or Deprivation funding this rises to 90% in Frankley. 913 people have accessed 5UPPOrt through our
community centre and out of term social activities and projects. 11,268 people each year face to face in totall Birmingham City
Council continues to recognise the centre as a 'warm welcome, venue. In addition to this we have provided hampers and support
packs which include online support to 4,000 families receiving benefit SUPPOrt or have additional need5.
LCSG continues to assess and support the children who come into our care. Communication remains a major concern especially
for children who have English as an additional language. Using communication assessment Strategies and too15 we work in
partnership with the parents to identify the child's communication needs and put an early intetvention plan into place. This is a
service made available for every child. The children and young people we have supported for the last 2 years have included those
who have experienced trauma (they may be having counselling or play therapyl. Children and young people with a Health Care
Action Plan. Looked after children and young people. Children. and young people from prisoner families. Children and young
people with parents/carer or a sibling who suffers from health problems or a disability which impact on the child's quality of life.
(This can include mental health), children and young people wrth parents/carers who are rehabilitating from an addiction. The
numbers of children with extended needs ISENDI have dramatically increased. The areas of concern include difficulties hearing,
mild to moderate learning disability, developmental disability i.e., autism or autism spectrum disorder. Parents are increasingly
asking for support in managing their child's behaviour.
LCSG employs thirty employees on a range of employment contracts which include full time, part time and term time only. We
work in partnership with the Birmingham Playcare Network IBPCNI who run a scrap store from our centre which recycles
donations from individuals and businesses throughout Birmingham they employ eight part-time staff and fifty volunteers. BPCN
also facilitates short courses and projects from the Hollymoor Centre. These projects are aimed at addressing a social need which
brings in vulnerable people. They hold a biweekly craft group for people over 50 years old and a mother and baby club
supporting young mums. Four hundred people visit Scrapstore each month 4,800 each year. We have a scout Eroup and a dance
academy group. We also have a school onsite called Flexible Learning which is for children who find attending mainstream
education a challenge. Each of the occupants of the Hollymoor Centre refer individuals and groups to LCSG. We work together to
offer the best help and support. In total over 12.342 people in the community benefited from our combined service5. This
partnership ha5 enhanced our connection wwth families in the local community and strengthened the support we are able to give,
we have found that we are able to attract a larger number of families who would have been harder to reach out to. By bringing
them into our community we Can work in partnership with other professionals and services to make a real change to their lives.
An example of the professiona15 we work with are Health Viswtors. Social Workers. Police. Health Care Professionals. teachers,
and housing organisations. We a150 work in partnership with the Children's Centre5. Special Educational Needs co-ordinators and
Speech and Language Therapist5. In addition. we support parents back into training by providing flexible childcare package5 in
partnership with the colleges.
LCSG employees are childcare practitioners who are experienced in connecting with and supporting people who are vulnerable
and who often find it hard to trust anybody. Forming a partnership with them in support of their children helps to build a bond of
trust. The parents/carers are grateful to have the opportunity to talk their problems through with the child's key person. The key
person will then signpost them or help them find the help available. The key people have an extensive training program available
to them which includes training in managing trauma, mental health first aid, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, domestic violence,
and a range of safeguarding courses. This is to provide the socially supported families with the highest quality of care and advice
available.
Page 6

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Objectives and artivities
During the summer LCSG were able to capitalise on the new team of Playworkers who were employed last year. This included the
development of a team of seven young adults aged between 16 to 18 year5 old who were very enthusiastic and committed to
providing a summer scheme full of fun and friendship for the young children in their care. These young people gained valuable
work experience, made new friends, and had a valuable experience of employment and managing their own money.
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children remain to be an integral factor in all LCSG'S management procedures. This
commitment is deeply embedded in the general ethos of LCSG who aim to continue to foster a culture of vigilance and care. The
number of qualified Designated Safeguarding Leads has increased to give the team the skills and confidence to act appropriately
and with confidence when they need to. LCSG'S induction pack has also been revised to strengthen new employee's knowledge
and understanding of what is expected from them as a member of the team. The members of the group have all continued to
adhere to government guidelines but share this responsibility as a team. The care and wellbeing of individuals remains our top
priority.
Page 7

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Financial review
Financial position
The financial review of the year to 31st March 2024 shows the charity has faced challenges. as in the previous year, it's been
somewhat of a concern for the industry as a whole. Due to the Early Years recruitment crisis we have found it increasingly
difficult to recruit in order to expand on numbers.
Our focus was to increase uptake within each of the settings, to plan an attrartive advertising strategy in order for the Centre to
become more known and to alleviate any financial strains that were not needed within the charity. This has been somewhat
successfLJI, we have seen a significant increase at Alphabets@Cofton. The managers are using a variety of methods in order to
attract new clients and the centre is receiving more traction.
FLJnded rates provided by the Government have always been significantly lower than needed, however consultations during this
year provided positive news that the age in which children receive funding would be lowered, hours extended to 30 and a rise in
the funding rates. This will have a positive impact on the 24125 accounts.
DLJring this time, we looked at ways in which we could save money in all areas. as some employees moved on to new ventures.
roles were able to be dissolved amongst the team. Managers were given more insight into budgets and more training was
provided, this helped to identify trigger points within the budgets and where money was being spent. Increased costs with the
food and utilities have been the biggest challenge and managers have been encouraged to research cheaper alternatives.
At the Directors meeting in February 2023 a 2% wage rise was agreed for deputy managers and managers, with a IYD increase for
all other roles however this did not include the 5.8% increase due to the NMW rises.
EEE Funding rates were again released late into the month. The formula had been written for the next 3 financial years which
would be looked at every 12 months. This has since been reviewed to incorporate the new childcare options from 9 months old.
After the success we had previously had with the HAF programme and the uptake for childcare provision out of term on a
downturn, It was decided that if possible to attract new opportunities and bids in regard to offering a completely free service, to
not only allow us to keep in consistent contart with our vulnerable families but to also take the strain financially off our service
user5. A National grid bid was granted at £8852 and a Winter food aid grant of £5000 where we were able to provide exciting
opportunitie5 for the families in the local area to come together and for us to provide a safe, warm and welcoming environment,
We were able to provide a food parcel for each family registered wtth us to include a healthy balanced meal and recipe ideas.
This supported the children's welfare out of term when the families were facing the most challenging times due to the cost of
The HAF Programme continued throughout 23124 for 24 sessions over the academic year,this is now offered in all 3 settings
bringing in over £19,000 of support for our most vulnerable children.
We continued to operate within our aims of trainin& and we offered employees a chance to upskill within Early years leadership
, with this the government gave an incentive payment of £800 per employee.
We have continued to use The Hollymoor site in connection with BPCN for a series of group gatherings including Create and Craft
fairs, group gatherings and trainin& generating more footfall to the area and subsequently more recognition in the area. This
resulted in many of the rooms that were vacant being booked within the day which was another area we have tapped into to
secure conslstent income into the charity. We are seeing a year on year growth within the centre income due to word of mouth
from the service users. We will continue to advertise any gaps wwthin the day to ensure we have con51Stent bookings within the
building.
In conclusion the settings have shown a decreased uptake in paid childcare places with fees at all 3 sites lower than the previous
year, however we have also seen an increase of funded support at all 3 swtes compared to the previous year. This is welcome
news to the charity, however a5 we are governed by the rates and cannot charge top up fees we have very tight margins as we
see more and more children accessing the funded support and not the paid services.
key triggers are Still the out of core hours Ibefore 9am and after 3pm) We are hoping the introduction of the funded package to
support working parent5 UP to 30 hours per week from September 2025 will alleviate these hours.
Managers are now covering part5 of the ratio without the additional need to pay for staff. Managers have a clear understanding
of the required number5 of children needed in order to break even per hour. This 15 set out each year at the AGM. We have also
introduced a more robust system in order to attract more funding opportunities for the charity and now have a dedicated person
to write and submit grants and bids to attract the additional income the charity needs.
We have again seen an increase year on year in regard to increased salary costs. we also received more historical debts that were
not previously reported in regard to ongoing negotiations with BCC about service charges. It is noted that the rent has
significantly increased at 2 of the sites, with a payment plan set over the next 12 months for l of the sites.
Our main concerns are the large year on year increases in National Minimum Wage. rising food and resources costs, rising utility
costs to include internet and telephorbe, repayment of historical debts and preparing for the new government incentives of
offering childcare options to children from the age of g months.
Page 8

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Re
for the
ort of the Trustees
ear ended 31 March 2024
Due to the recruitment crisis Wlthin the sector. it will be imperative to have an attractive package to recruit and retain employees
within this new challenge we are about to face.
Reserves policy
Given the current net liabilities position. the reserves policy of the company is under review. The 5hort-term priority IS to
eliminate the net liabilities. In the medium term, the trustees intend to agree a policy for maintaining unrestricted funds which
will balance the group's day to day cash flow needs, while allowing for suitable investment in staff and resources which will
benefit the group in the longer term.
Funds in deficit
The financial statements show a deficit in total funds of £79,800 as at 31 March 202412023- deficit of £57,548).
Going concern
The Trustees have considered a period of at least 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements and
consider that the charity will be able to continue to attract sufficient funding and manage its expenditure levels accordingly. The
Group has access to a £10,000 overdraft facility that was renewed in December 2022 for a further 12 months. As such, the
Trustees are content that the accounts can be prepared on the going concern basis.
Structure* governance and management
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in
place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small
companies.
The Trustees, who are also Directors of the Charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report
21 November 2024 and signed on Its behalf by-
M Short-Trustee
Page 9

Inde
endent Examiner'5 Re
ort to the Trustees of
Lon
brid e Childcare Strate
Grou
Independent examiner'5 report to the trustee5 of Longbridge Childcare Strategy Group I'the Company'l
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2024.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity'5 trustees of the Company land also its directors for the purposes of company lawl you are responsible for the
preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 20061'the 2006 Act'l.
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the CoTnpany are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are
eligible for independent examination, I report in respert of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under
Section 145 of the Charities Act 20111'the 2011 Act'l. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the
Charity Commission under Section 145151 Ibl of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's ststement
Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that l am
qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales,
which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination
giving me cause to believe=
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Sertion 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 Art 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 been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended
Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the
Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 10211-
I have no concerns and have come acros5 no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be
drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
James Howard ACCA
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
Cooper Parry Advisory Limited
CUBO Birmingham
4th Floor
Two Chamberlain Square
Birmingham
West Midlands
B3 3AX
21 November 2024
Page 10

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Statement of Financial Activities
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
2024
Total
fund5
2023
Total
funds
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
Notes
Income and endowments from
Donations and legacies
15
15
16
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
533,504
533,504
477,064
Total
533,504
15
533.519
477,080
Expenditure on
Charitable activities
Charitable activities
181
396,740
19,702
8,670
47,917
306
8,733
4,318
11,173
481
Wages and National Insurance
Consumables and staff expenses
Repairs, research and maintenance
Rent, rates, heat and light
Bank and professional charges
Telephone, stationery & advertising
Sundry expenses
Other grant expenditure
Motor Vehicles Expenses
420,398
22,858
420,398
22,858
64,774
978
9,593
64,774
978
9,593
3,482
20,269
174
20,269
174
Other
4.726
15
4.741
4,723
Total
555.756
15
555.771
502,944
NET INCOMEIIEXPENDITUREI
122.2521
{22.2521
125,8641
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
159.1331
1.585
{57.5481
131,6841
Total funds carried forward
181.3851
1.585
{79.8001
157,5481
Continuing operations
All income and expenditure has arisen from continuing activities.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 11

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
REGISTERED NUMBER= 03719730
Balance Sheet
31 March 2024
2024
Total
fund5
2023
Total
funds
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible a55ets
io
12.854
12.854
15,774
Current assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
li
6,620
17,721
6.620
19,306
5,411
28,881
1,585
24,341
1,585
25,926
34,292
Creditors
Amounts falling due within one year
12
{1￿.580}
1118,5801
1107,6141
Net current assetsllliabilities)
194,2391
1,585
{92,6541
173,3221
Total assets less current liabilities
181,3851
1,585
{79,8001
157,5481
NET ASSETSIILIABILITIESI
181,3851
1,585
{79,8001
157,5481
Funds
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
13
181,385}
1,585
159,1331
1,585
Total funds
179.8(X)I
157,5481
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended
31 March 2024.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024 in
accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
lal
ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies
Act 2006 and
preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the State of affairs of the charitable company as at the
end of each financial year and of wt5 surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of
Sectlons 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial
statements. so far as applicable to the charitable company.
Ibl
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to
the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 21 November 2024 and were
signed on it5 behalf by=
M Short-Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 12

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Cash Flow Statement
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
2024
2023
Notes
Cash flows from operating artivities
Cash generated from operations
17.7551
3,462
Net cash (used inl/provided by operating activities
17,7551
3,462
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
110201
11,7031
Net cash used in investing activities
110201
11,7031
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the
reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of
the reporting period
19.5751
1,759
28,881
27,122
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
reporting period
19,306
28,881
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 13

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Reconciliation of net expenditure to net cash fli)w frorn operating activities
2024
2023
Net expenditure for the reporting period las per the Ststernent of Financial
Activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Increase in debtors
Increase in creditors
122.2521
125.8641
4,740
11.2091
10.966
4,723
11,6411
26,244
Net cash (used inllprovided by operations
17,7551
3,462
Analysis of changes in net funds
At 114123
Cash flow
At 3113124
Net cash
Cash at bank and in hand
28A81
19,5751
19,306
28WI
{9,5751
19,306
Total
28￿1
{9,5751
19,306
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 14

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statements
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Accounting policies
Basis of preparing the financial staternents
The financial statements of the charitable company. which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared
in accordance with the Charities SORP IFRS 1021 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities= Statement of Recommended
Practice applicable to charitie5 preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in
the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 leffertive l January 20151,, Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial
Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland,. the Charities Act 2011 and the Companies Act 2006.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These
policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.
Going concern
The trustees assess whether the use of going concern is appropriate i.e. whether there are any material uncertainties
related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the academy trust to continue as a going
concern. The trustees make this assessment in respect of a period of one year from the date of authorisation for issue of
the financial statements.
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The trustees have reviewed and considered
relevant information, including the annual budget and future cash flows in making their assessment. Based on these
assessments, given the measures that could be undertaken to mitigate the current adverse conditions, and the current
resources available, the trustees have concluded that they can continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing
the annual report and accounts.
Income
All income 15 recognised in the Statement of Financial Artivities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is
probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as the￿ is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to
that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the
obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under
headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings
they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.
Charitable artivities
Costs of charitable activities are incurred on the charity's childcare operations, including support costs and costs relating
to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitable attivities.
Tangible fixed assets
All fixed assets are initially recognised at cost.
Depreciation
Depreciation of fixed assets is calculated to write off their cost of valuation less any residual value over their estimated
useful lives as follows:
Improvements to leasehold property
Office equipment
Fixture and fitting5
Computer equipment
20% p.a. straight line basis
15% p.a. reducing balance
25% p.a. reducing balance
25% p.a. reducing balance
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the
general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.
Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim
and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Page 15
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Accounting policies- continued
Fund accounting
Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have
been raised by the charity for particular purpose. The c05t of raising and administering such funds are charged against
the specific fund. The aim and use of each restrirted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Hire purchase and leasing commitments
Assets obtained under hire purchase contrarts or finance leases are capitalised in the Balance Sheet. Those held under
hire purchase contracts are depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Those held under finance leases are
depreciated over their estimated useful lives or the lease term, whichever is shorter.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable
company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Artivities in the period to which they relate.
Debtors and creditors receivablelpayable within one year
Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction
price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.
Donations and legacies
Grants Re￿iVed
2024
2023
Restricted
Bournville College
18
18
Unrestrirted
Total
18
Income from charitable activities
Charitable artivitie5
2024
2023
Childcare services
Centre income
Nursery fees- government funded
Government support grants
58.274
470.027
5,200
62,060
408,939
6,063
533.501
477,062
Page 16
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Resources expended
2024
2023
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
Unrestricted
fund
Restricted
fund
Wages and national insurance
Accountancy and independent examination
Bank and professional charges
Consumables and staff expenses
Insurance
Depreciation
Pensions
Rent, rates, heat and light
Repairs, research and maintenance
Telephone, stationary and advertising
Bad debt write off
413,593
6,193
318
34.027
9.139
4.726
6,805
64,774
6,588
9.593
396,740
2.486
306
21,040
8,210
1,285
6,358
47,917
8,851
8,733
1,000
15
18
555,756
15
502,926
18
Support costs
Governance
costs
Finance
Totals
Bank and professional charges
Other grant expenditure
318
660
5,533
978
5,533
318
6.193
6.511
Net incomellexpenditurel
Net incomellexpenditurel is stated after charginyJlcreditingl-
2024
2023
Independent examiners, fees
Depreciation - owned assets
5,533
4,740
4,723
1,303
Trustees. remuneration and bener
There were no tru5tee5' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2024 nor for the year ended
31 March 2023.
Trustees. expenses
There were no trustees expenses paid in the year
Page 17
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
Staff costs
2024
2023
Wages and salaries
Other pension costs
413.593
6.805
390,382
6,358
420.398
396,740
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows=
2024
2023
30
Administrative staff
No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,0(M).
Comparatives for the statement of financial activities
Unrestricted
fund
Restrirted
fund
Total
funds
Income and endowments from
Donations and legacies
121
18
16
Charitable artivities
Charitable activities
477,064
477,064
Total
477,062
18
477,080
Expenditure on
Charitable artivities
Charitable activities
181
396,740
19,702
8,670
47,917
306
8.733
4.318
11.173
181
396,740
19,702
8,670
47,917
306
8,733
4,318
11,173
481
Wages and National Insurance
Consumables and staff expenses
Repairs, research and maintenance
Rent, rates, heat and light
Bank and profe55ional charges
Telephone. stationery & advertising
Sundry expenses
Other grant expenditure
Motor Vehicles Expenses
Other
4,705
18
4,723
Total
502.926
18
502,944
NET INCOMEI(EXPENDITURE)
125.8641
125.8641
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
133,2691
1,585
131,6841
Total funds carried forward
159.1331
1,585
157,5481
Page 18
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
io.
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures
and
fttings
Improvements
to property
Plant and
machinery
Computer
equipment
Totals
Cost
At l April 2023
Additions
120,994
21W8
1,135
57,132
17,875
217,899
1,820
At 31 March 2024
120,994
23,033
57,132
18,560
219,719
Depreciation
At l April 2023
Charge for year
110.734
3,420
18,486
56,954
15.951
594
202.125
4,740
At 31 March 2024
114,154
19,168
56,998
16,545
206,865
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
3A65
134
2,015
12,854
At 31 March 2023
10,260
3,412
178
1,924
15,774
Fixed assets, included in the above, which are held under hire purchase contrarts or finance leases are as follows:
Improvements
to property
At l April 2023 and 31 March 2024
38.825
Depreciation
At l April 2023
Charge for year
28.565
3A20
At 31 March 2024
31.985
Net book value
At 31 March 2024
6.840
At 31 March 2023
10,260
ii.
Debtor5: arnounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Trade debtors
6.620
5,411
Page 19
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
12.
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2024
2023
Trade creditors
Social security and other taxes
Other creditors
Deferred income
Accrued expenses
9.826
60.074
11.024
114
37.542
5,103
54,741
11,000
129
36,641
118,580
107,614
13.
Movement in funds
Net
movement
in funds
At V4123
At 3113124
Unrestrirted funds
General fund
159,1331
122,2521
181,3851
Restricted fvnds
Restricted general fund
1.585
1,585
TOTAL FUNDS
157,5481
122,2521
I79￿00)
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Movement
in funds
Unrestrirted funds
General fund
533.504
1555.7561
122.2521
Restricted funds
Restrirted general fund
15
1151
TOTAL FUNDS
533.519
1555.7711
122.2521
Comparatives for movement in funds
Net
rnovement
in funds
At 114122
At 3113123
Unrestrirted funds
General fund
133.2691
125.8641
159,1331
Restricted fund5
Restricted general fund
1,585
1,585
TOTAL FUNDS
131,6841
125,8641
157,5481
Page 20
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
13.
Movernent in funds- continued
Comparative net movement in funds. included in the above are as follows..
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Movement
in funds
Unrestritted funds
General fund
477,062
1502,9261
125,8641
Restricted funds
Restricted general fund
18
1181
TOTAL FUNDS
477,080
1502,9441
125,8641
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined posltion is as follows:
Net
movement
in funds
At 114122
At 3113124
Unrestrirted funds
General fund
133,2691
148,1161
181,3851
Restricted funds
Restricted general fund
1.585
1,585
TOTAL FUNDS
131,6841
148,1161
179,8001
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
Unrestrirted funds
General fund
1,010,566
11,058,682)
148,1161
Restricted fund5
Restricted general fund
33
1331
TOTAL FUNDS
1.010,599
11.058.715)
148,1161
Page 21
continued...

LONGBRIDGE CHILDCARE STRATEGY GROUP
Notes to the Financial Statement5- continued
for the
ear ended 31 March 2024
14.
Related party disclosures
During the year ended 31 March 2018 the trustees loaned £9.000 to the company. this remains within other creditors as
at 31 March 2024.
There were no Trustee's expenses paid in the year15hown in note 61 and no other related party transactions occured for
the year ended 31 March 2024. There were no Trustee's expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2024.
Key management personnel consists of the trustees only, whose remuneration is shown within note 6.
15.
Ultimate controlling party
The charity was under the control of the Board of Trustees in the current and previous year.
16.
Share capital
The company is limited by guarantee of its members and does not have any share capital. In the event the company is
wound up, the members who are also the trustees, have a liability in respect of the guarantee, limited to £1 per member.
Page 22