DAMEVERA LYNN Children's Charily Report and Financial Statements for the year ending 31 March 2024 Dlscover together 11 Timeiablt CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER - 1089657 COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER- 04230409 (ENGLAND AND WALES)
4• D FROM THE CHAIR The charity continues to provide an exceptional level of service to those children and their families who need it the most. This is a service that is vitally needed. and it is really making a difference to all the lives of those that It is able to help. To see the impact the charity has on the children is truly inspiring and sets them up in the best possible way for their future development, once they move on to the next stages. It is clear that there is a continuing- and growing- need for the services the team provides, across the whole South-East region with many families regularly travel long distances to attend their session5. Like many simllar charities, the ongoing financial challenges that we are experiencing, have continued to impact our efforts to raise funds, but through the hard work of the team, the generosity of many Trusts & Foundations and particularly a large number of individuals and corporates, we feel that we are in a good position as we move forward to bulld and develop for the future. The Trustees are confident that the budget we have set forth for the coming year is achievable. This, in conjunction with our new fundraising team and the plan to relocate the centre to new, more suitable and flexible facility within the next few months, will ensure the success of the Charity in the longer term. Over the last year Tom Jones and Colin Darnell have had to step down as Trustees due to health reasons. NiccS Long also had to step down as a result of family issues. Tom Jones, Dame Vera's son-in-law, was with the charity since the beginning and was the founding Chairman. Over the year5 he did a fantastic job building the cha rity to what it is today. Colin has been a Trustee since October 2019. He and his wife Sue. have done- and continue to do- a tremendous amount to support the charity. Nicci, although only with us for a short time was also able to provide useful insights and support. All will be 50rely missed. On behalf of the Trustees. I would like to thank them for all thelr support and efforts over the years. They don't get away quite 50 easily, in recognition of all they have done, Tom has been appointed a Vice-President and both Colin and Sue have been appointed Ambassadors of the charitv. We were pleased to welcome Debbie Fry as a new Trustee. Debbie brings with her extensive early year5 and SEND experience and will pick-up the Safeguarding portfolio that had previous been managed by Colin. As Trustees, we are continually looking ahead to building on the success of the charlty and Dame Vera's foreslght in foundlng it and have a clear strategy for growth In mind to support Glenys and her team as required. As always particular thanks are due to Glenys Creese, who as CEO of the Charity has done a tremendous job in continuing to build the Charity and keep the money comlng in in difficult circumstances. I would also like to thank all the Trustees who have given their time and expertise so freely to help this wonderful charity. Finally, on behalf of the Trustees, I'd like to thank everyone who has supported the Charlty over the last year, and particularlv to all the brilliant staff and volunteers, who have worked so hard to deliver such an invaluable service that makes a real difference to so manv. NICK DU CHAIRMAN
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Llmlted by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts CONTENTS A word from the Chair A word from the CEO Area the charity covers Pediatric Physiotherapylconductive Education Beatrice's Story Speech and Language Therapy Jothi's Storv Outreach io Music Therapy Swimming Sessions Impact Fundraising Thankyou li 12 13 14 16 Structure and Governance 17 Risk Management 17 Monagement Financial Review 18 18 Reserve Policy Preporation of thefinoncial statement5 Trustee, responsibilities in relation to thefinoncial statements Legal & Admlnistrative Information Report of the Independent Examiner Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 March 2024 Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2023 Statement of Cash Flow for the year ended 31 March 2024 Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2023 18 Is 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
DAME VERA LYNN CHILDREN'S CHARITY YEAR 2023124 A WORD FROM THE CEO 202312024 was for many reasons an incredible yearl More famllies than ever have been to the centre in Cuckfield and started to receive much needed support and services, We were privileged to be able to hold a number of new events Including at Lambeth Palace Gardens in the summer, as well as some events which we have done for a number of years now includlng the Chrlstmas Tree Recycling project. We had some Incredible support from both loyal donors and corporates who have supported us every year and welcomed supportfrom new businesses as well. The fantastic team have worked harder than ever to make sure that all children are able to access our hi8h-quallty servlces, even when there has been no more room at the Innl A change of personnel in the fundraislng team led to some challenges over the past year, which have now been overcome and leave the charity In good shape for the comlng year. Lastly, I would like to thank the Board of Trustees headed up by Nlck, for thelr help and support throughout the year. I look forward to contlnue developing the charity in 2024125.
AREA THE CHARITY COVERS YEAR 2023/24 i &osex 1.151 Families travel from rlght across the South-East to attend sessions at the Centre. The above map shows the counties where famllies come from, with Surrey and Hampshire to the west, Kent to the east, West Sussex and East Sussex along the coast and London In the North. The furthest distance that a family drives to the centre Is from Farnham, taking on average an hour and a half each way. This demonstrates how much the families value the seniices that they receive, free of charge, at the centre. Since 2017 we have seen a dramatic rise in the number of children who are supported by the charity every year. During 2023124 this number has been higher than ever. We believe that this number will continue to rise as the Charity works to increase the awareness of the work It does. The Charity has also seen an increase in the number of children who have a high level of physical need. All service staff have completed a diploma in Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties, which has enabled them to ensure that they developed the sessions to meet the changlng needs of the children. NUMBER OF CHILDREN Number of children supported 80 70 SUPPORTED 60 50 40 30 20 io 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
PAEDIATRIC PHYSIOTHERAPY/CONDUCTIVE EDUCATION YEAR 2023124 ljli lty eo. All children who attend services provlded by the Charlty are offered paediatric physiotherapy/conductive education. Children are placed Into small groups with others who are of similar age and working on a similar set of skills. This not only motivates them and gives them, maybe for the first time, an opportunity to meet children just like them, it also gives the parents and carers an opportunity to meet people in a similar situation to themselves. Sessions run every week for an hour and gives children an opportunity to learn new skills and build on the skills that they have already learnt. In each session children are given an opportunlty to work on a whole range of skllls bulldlng both their confidence and abilities. Sessions are hands on for parents/careers who are shown how to encourage the continuatlon of these skills at home through specific movement patterns and stretches. Durlng 2023/24 the charity has seen a huge increase In the number of children who need the support of the specialist services. In total 919 sessions were provided, which is almost back to the pre- pandemic number of sessions in a year. The charity supported 71 children through physiotherapy/conductive education sessions throughout 2023124. It is anticipated that during 2024125 thls number will increase further. You can read more Information about the impact that the sessions have had in the Impact section of this report.
Beatrice's Story Little Beatrice was born with Down's Syndrome, she has bilateral Sensory Neural Hearing Loss, Hypotonia, Dysphagia and Anaemia. She joined us at the charity in November 2022 and has attended Conductive Education sessions once a week with her mum and later on with her new-born baby sister. Beatrice also attended music therapy and speech and language therapy. The famlly (mum, dad, grandma) have been very committed to teaching Beatrice skills using the techniques learnt during sessions. Beatrice has made an excellent progress since she joined. When Beatrice started at the charity, not long after her 1st blrthday, she was unable to crawl, stand or walk, but step by step over the last 16 months she has learnt all these things and morel She started four-point crawling In March 2023, then started standing and cruising by furniture and cruising In the summer 2023. Through learning to take steps with a walking aid, parallel bars and ropes and when she had I hand held, she finally started walking independently In January 2024. Beatrice is now a confidently walking little girl, ready to tackle things on her way.
24 Number of children who were supported through Speech and Language sessions in 2023 Number of children who have made progress with their communication skills in 2023. Number of children who have had personalised low technology communication books created for them by the charity. he difference these sessions have made to my son 15 amazing, he is able to not only tell us what he wants but he has started to use his PODD book to tell us jokesl
Jothi's Story Ip Jothi was born premature and had a bleed on his brain, he also had infantile spasms. When he was born he was placed on a ventilator for 24 hours and in intensive care for the first 93 days of his life. At 13 months his parents made contact with the charity and an assessment was carried out, although Jothi had learnt to roll over he had very limited other physical skills. He started attending sessions with the team in July 2021. Over the next nearly two and a half years Jothi attended the centre for physiotherapy sessions, he also had homeplay sessions with the Outreach Team. Following a huge amount of effort from Jothi and his mums, alongslde the help and support from the team in his sessions Jothi has learnt many new skills, he is able to hold his head up for longer, which means he can look at the world around him. He Is able to follow simple instructions and will greet his friends wlth a smile, Jothi is also able to make vocalisations consistently for'go" when playing a game. Jothi loves "Big Movements" spinning around in a spinner which always beings a smile to his face. He is now more confident with other people but needs time to build up trust with them. The charity has been able to support Jothi not only through the session both in the centre and at home, but also with supporting is parents when they attended a tribunal to ensure that Jothi has access to the right school for him. In September 2024, Jothi will be attending school and driving round in his Wizzybug which he lovesl
OUTREACH YEAR 2023124 Play sessions dellvered in the child's own home are another of the services that the charity has offered for a number of years now. During 2023124 due to the increased demand for services a second outreach worker was employed. This has enabled the charity to increase the number of sesslons it is able to offer each week. 519 Number of home play sessions provided in 2023/2024 Home play sessions are a great way for children to learn through play in the safe and familiar surroundings of their own home. Each session is planned according to the chlld's and familvs individual needs. The team carefully plan each session and take the resources needed with them in one of the charity vans. 503 Miles driven each week by the Outreach Team All families who live within an hours, drive of the centre are offered this service. The charlty is proud to once again be awarded the stamp of approval from the National Portage Association Nolionol Portaqo A$so£rolion
MUSIC THERAPY YEAR 2023/24 Music therapy is based on the premise that everyone has the ability to respond to music because they have a heart beat inside them. 284 In partnership with Nordorff and Robins the charity provides eight 30 minute sessions each week. Small groups of children are given the opportunitv to experience music making, exploring using their voices and have fun with lots of different sounds. During the school holidays the Music therapist facilitates the Big Jam sessions which are open to all families and their siblings. Number of music therapv sessions provided during 2023124.
SESSIONS SWIMMING YEAR 2023124 One of the servlces that all families love are the swlmming sessions. Twice a week the charity provides 30minute swimmlng sesslons in a private hydrotherapy pool. The water is heated to 32 degrees and this makes it Ideal for the young children with tight muscles. The warm water not only helps their muscles to relax but the water also supports their body weight meaning that they are able to move and stretch far more than on dry land. 38 Number of children who have attended swimming sessions during 2023124. Chlldren also learn how to be safe in the water, how to safely get In and out of the pool. and hold onto the side. For some children who have dlfficulties hold ing things this can be a real challenge. oi
IMPACT YEAR 2023124 Children have made progress in at least 2 areas of their learning du ring 2023. c) 69Yo Children improved in their emotional well-beiong score during 2023. Each child has a set of learning goals which are reviewed every 6 months. Each score is plotted on with star chart to demonstrate progress. Ev ery star has 7 points; Gross motor Fine motor Communication Self-care Emotional well-being Cognition Social skills. Each point on the star has a set criteria which every child regardless of their level of disability will be able to meet. The child needs to regularly meet the criteria set in order to progress to the next number up the point. Every session is carefully planned to ensure that each child has an opportunity to work on each skill, the goals are shared with parents and careers SO they can continue to work of those skills at home. 59% Children improved in their social skills score during 2023. Children improved in their gross motor skills during 2023
IÈ 128 £60,000 Trust and Foundation applications made during 2023/24. The charity received over £60,000 from its corporate partners this year. New charity of the year partnerships Set up for 2024/2025. Skydivers took to the skies to raise over £5,000 for the charity.
Swppoytea by Chlldpen in Need @ BBC 2007 Reg. charity England & Wales no. 802052 and Scotland The Edward Gostling Foundation Enhancing Quality of Life for People in Need ENABLELAW Focus Foundation Hollyhock CLUB
Thank you DAMEVERA LYNN Children's Charily Discover together
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Llinited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Structure and Governance Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity is a Registered Charity, (number 10896571. It is a Company, Inumber 042304091, limited by guarantee. The Charity is governed by Its Articles of Associatlon which were updated in March 2019 from the orlglnal document with hand-written notes. The Trustees who served during the period were.. Paula Barnes- Secretary Colin Darnell - Safeguarding Lead (resigned 30 November 20231 Nick Dutt- Chairper50n Deborah Fry - Safeguarding Lead lappointed 8, February 20241 Elizabeth Haigh-Reeve Doug Hill Treasurer Tom Jones Ireslgned 261h March 20241 Nicci Long (resigned 4, October 20231 Carolyn Scott Tracey Trotter The directors of the company, who are also Charity Trustees for the purposes of charity law, form the Board of Trustees. Two of the Trustees serve voluntarily as Treasurer and Company Secretary respectively. A full board meeting is held six times in a 12-month period (more frequently if the need arises). One Trustee is appolnted as Chairperson and staff are invited to report on the services and fundraising activities via the respective sub-committees which also meet regularly during the period. The budget is approved annually by the full Board of Trustees and is reviewed monthly. The minimum number of Trustees is three; there is no maximum and Trustees are appointed to serve for a term of three vears. Prospective Trustees are required to complete an application form and declare any conflict of interest. No person is appointed to serve as a Trustee unless approved by the existing Trustees. New Trustees are introduced to the Board and briefed, as necessary, in all aspects of the Charity's objectSves and policies. Trustees are encouraged to seek training, as appropriate, also to observe and follow the requirements and guidelines set down by the Charity Commission. Trustees are DBS checked on their appointment and then every two years thereafter, The Trustees have diverse professional backgrounds, and some are also parents of children who have used the service. Risk Management Risks have been identifled to whlch the Charity is exposed, and which might impact on the Charity's ability to achieve its objectives. To mitigate those risks, policies and procedures have been established that are designed to provide reasonable, but not absolute, assurance against material misstatement or loss and ensure a consistent, high quality of service and care for the children and appropriate working conditions for the staff. The safeguarding of our children is paramount to everything that this Charity does. The Trustees have established an ongoing process for identifying, evaluatlng, and managing the Charity's key risks, and this is reviewed regularly. In particular, there are procedures for.. Ethical fundraisinE Providing the capacity to safely deliver the service with fully qualified staff Ensuring that the Charity's services meet required Standards. including for safeguarding, child protection, health and safety and well-beinE. Avoiding actions that could damage the Charity's reputation Ensuring that the Fundraising staff and all Charity fundraising activities are fully compliant with all Fundraising Regulations and all Charity Commission requirements, including those for general data protection. Ensuring a proper complaint procedure for service users, staff, and donors Ensuring equal opportunities and safe recruitment and retaining sufficient levels of skilled staff Providing adequate ICT systems and ensuring the protection and security of confidential information The overall management and development of systems and HR practises and people Ensuring the provision of adequate levels of governance, financial and operating control through its Trustees and management. 171 P a gvc
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Llinited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Financial reporting within a comprehensive planning and accounting framework, and monitoring of other risks which are identified and reported to the Trustees. The Trustees continue to monitor the risks and the effectiveness of the system of control that has been put In place by the Charity. Management In this financial year the Executive Manager was promoted to Chief Executive Officer and holds responsibility for ensuring that the delivery and standards of the services meet the objectives set out by the Trustees as well as having full responsibility for Staffing, delivery of the service provision and fundraising, Financial Review The Charity's Statement of Financial Activities 55 shown on page 22. The total income for the year was £527,99412023: £369,270) and total expenditure was E441,75812023: £448,096). Income has increased this year mainly due to a significant one off receipt from a trust fund of £120,000. Excluding this, income was up IO% and reflects increased fundraising from activities such as events and also increased usage of our services by local authorities. Reserve policy The Charity Ss reliant on receiving funds from individuals, community groups, business and trust and foundations. In order to protect against an unexpected drop in income, the Charity ensures that is has deposited funds that are set aside to meet the financial commitment5 explained in the report for at least a period of six161 months. The main objective of the Trustees is to ensure the Charity has adequate funding to safeÉuard its daily activities meet its financial obligations and commitments to the children, parents and staff. At 31" March 2024, in addition to the restricted and designated funds It carries over into the new flnancial year, the Charity held free reserves of £79,50512023: £126,093) and as of 31 March 2024, the free reserves policy has not been met. However, the Charity is implementing a comprehensive plan arising from a strategic review of its income generation undertaken 2023124 and which is already beginning to yield significant posltive results. Combined with a continuous review of its costs, the Trustees are confident that the Charity will meet the reserves policy going forward. In 2021122, the Trustees agreed to set aside the proceeds from a significant legacy to fund initiatives aimed at the expansion of the Charity's service5 as It emerged from the COVID restrictions. These have been allocated to a designated fund. This policy will be under review in the coming financial year. All funds are held in approved current and deposit accounts, including those managed by the Charities Aid Foundation. and position5 are monitored closely to ensure that there is no unduly high exposure to any one financial institution. The Trustees continually monitor the cash position and review this reserves poliry each year in order to ensure that the Charity always has suff icient funds to meet its obligations and continue to provide its charity service. Preparation of the financial statements The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of recommended Practice 2019 Companies Act 2006 and Charities Act 2011. 181Pag¥
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Liiniled by Guara)Jtee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Trustees, responsibilities in relation to the f inancial statements The Trustees (who are also directors of Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity) are responsible for preparing the Trustees, report and financial statements in accordance with appllc3ble law and United Kingdom Accountlng Standards Iunited Klngdom Generally Accepted Accounting Pratticel. Company Law requires the Trustees to prepare financlal statements for each financial year wh ich Eive a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and the group at the year end and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the Charity and the group for the year. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: select 5Ultable accounting pollcies and then apply them consistently,. observe the methods and principles In the Charlties SORP,. make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent,. state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained In the financial statements,. and prepare the financlal statements on the going concern basis unless it is inapproprlate to presume that the Charity will continue in operation. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and the group and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and the group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Approved by the Trustees on 11 June 2024 and signed on their behalf by: Nlck Dutt Chair of Board of Trustees 191 P agFe
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity {LiDiited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Legal & Administrative Information Founder Dame Vera Lynn CH DBE LLD M. Mus Trustees Paula Barne5- Secretary Nick Dutt - Chairperson Deborah Fry - Safeguardlng Lead (appointed 8 February 20241 Ellzabeth Haigh-Reeve Doug Hill Treasurer Carolyn Scott Tracey Trotter Vice Presidents Virginia Lewis-jones Tom Jones Sir Tim Rice Sir Cliff Richard OBE Hayley Westenra Principal Advisers Patrons Kirstie Betts Richard 8etts Christopher Biggins john Bowls OBE Rlchard Leon Barrie Roberts Sophia Warner Re istered office Unit I, The Courtyard Holmstead Farm Staplefield Road Cuckfield RH17 5JF Bank CAF Bank 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Klngs Hill West Malling, Kent ME194JQ Ambassadors Chris Andre Gary and Lorrie Birtles Olivia Breen Adrian Brown D-Day Darlings Colin & Sue Darnell Mickie Driver Avril Gaynor Abbie Hunnisett James Lyne5 Christian Mitchell Stephanie Prior Katherlne Samuelson Colin Thackery Accountants and Inde TC Group The Courtyard, Shoreham Road, Upper Beeding, West Sussex BN44 3TN endent examiners Registration numbers Registered Charity No. 1089657 Company Registration No. 04230409 Website www.dvlcc.or CEO Glenys Creese Address Unit I, The Courtyard, Holmsted Farm, Staplefield Road, Cuckfield, West Sussex RH17 5JF Tel.. 01444 473274 20IPa
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Chydrity (Limited b), Guarantee) Report of the Independent Examiner I report to the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Charitable Company for the year ended 31 March 2024. Responslbllities and basls of report As the Trustees of the Charitable Company land also its directors for the purposes of company lawl you are responsiblefor 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 Company are 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 ascarried out under section 145 of the CharitiesAct 20111'the 2011 Act'l. In carrying out my examination I have followedthe Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 1451$) Ibl of the 2011 Act. Independent examiner's Statement Since the Charitable Company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of the ACCA, which is a listed body. 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 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 anyrequirement 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 reportinE by charities. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attentlon should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Mr Mark Cummins FCCA FCIE for and on behalf of TC Group The Courtyard, Shoreham Road, Upper Beedin& Steyning West Sussex BN44 3TN Dated: 18th June 2024 21 |PabFe
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited b}, Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Aceounts Statement of Flnancial Actlvities for the year ended 31 March 2024 (including the Income & Expenditure Account} Unrestricted funds Designated funds Restrlcted funds Endowment funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Notes Income from: Donations and legacies 123,575 123,575 127,305 Charitable activities 80,650 114,627 120,000 315.277 194,655 other trading actSvities 88,365 88,365 46,895 Investments 777 777 415 Total income 293.367 114,627 120,000 527,994 369,270 Ex endlture on.. Ralsing fund5 127.020 127,020 156,601 Charitable activities 215,519 99,219 314,738 291,495 Total Expenditure 342,539 99.219 441,758 448,096 Net Intome I lexpenditurel and net movement in funds 149,1721 15.408 120,000 86,236 178,8261 Reconclllation of Funds Total funds brought forward 132,354 77,850 20,601 230,805 309,631 Total funds carrled forward 22 83,182 77,850 36,009 120,000 317,041 230,805 The statement of financial activities a150 complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. There are no recognised gains or losses other than those reported on the Statement of Financial Activitles. All activities are classed as continuing. The notes form part of these financial statements 22 |Pag> e
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2024 Notes Unrestricted funds Designated Restricted Endowment funds funds funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Fixed Assets Tanglble A55et5 13 3,677 3,677 6,261 Intangible assets 14 3,677 3.677 6,261 Current Assots Debtors 15 32,051 32,051 22,345 Cash at bank and in hand 75,737 77,850 36,009 120.000 309.596 255,348 107,788 77,850 36,009 120,000 341,647 277,693 Credltors: amounts falling due wlthln one year Net current assets 16 (28,2831 128,2831 153,1491 79,505 77.850 36.009 120.000 313,364 224,544 Net assets 83.182 77.850 36.009 120.000 317.041 230,805 Funds Restricted funds 17 36,009 36,009 20,601 Endowment funds 19 120,000 120,000 Designated funds 18 77,850 77,8SO 77,850 Unrestricted funds 83.182 83,182 132,354 23 83,182 77,850 36,009 120,000 317,041 230,805 The Trustees are satisfied that the company 55 entltled to audlt exemption under sectlon 477 of the CompanSes Act 2006 and that no member or members have requested an audlt pursuant to section 476 of the Act. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Att 2006 relating to small companies. The accounts were approved by the Board of Trustees on Il, June 2024. N Dutt (Chairl Charity number: 1089657 231PM&)L
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limlted by Guaranlee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 31 March 2024 2024 2023 Cash flow from o eratln activitles Note below Net cash from operating activities 53,471 171,5871 Cash flow from Invèstln actlvltles Payments to acquire tangible fixed assets 11,7451 Interest received 777 415 Net cash flow from inve5tlng activitles 777 11,3301 Net Increase ulvalents Cash and cash equivalents at l April 2024 decrease In tash and cash 54,248 172,9171 255,348 328,265 Cash and cash equlvalents at 31 March 2024 309,596 255,348 Anal sls of cash and cash e ulvalents Cash at bank and In hand 309,596 255,348 Recon¢lllatlon of net Incomellèxpenditurel to net cash flow from operatlons Net Incomellèxpenditurel for the year 86,236 178,8261 Interest received 17771 14151 DepreciatSon of tanglble fixed assets 2,584 2,585 Amortisation of intangible fixed assets 5,199 Decreasellincreasel Sn debtors 19,7061 110,6451 (Decreaseifincrease in creditors 124,8661 10,515 Net cash flow from operatlng actlvltles 53,471 171.5871 241PabJL
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Liilli¢ed by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 Company Information Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity is a charitable company, limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. The charitable company's registered number and registered office address can be found on the legal and administrative information page. Accounting pollcies The principal accounting policies adopted are as follows.. Basls of accountlng The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 (effective ljanuary 20151- Charities SORP IFRS 1021, and the Companies Act 2006. The Charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRSIO2. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amount5 in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest pound. Having considered future budgets and cash flows, the Trustees confirm that they have no material uncertainties about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern for the foreseeable future. Income All income Is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the Income, it Is probable that the income will be received, and the amount of income can be measured reliablv. Both grants and donations income are recognised when the Charity has entltlement to the funds, any performance conditlons attached to the income stream have been met, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably. In the event that such income is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the Charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until those conditions are fully met, or the fulfilment of those conditions Is wholly within the control of the Charity, and it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period. Income from other trading activities includes ticket sales and other income from events organi5ed directly by the Charitv together with other income from the sale of Christmas cards and is recognised when the entitlement has occurred. Investment income Is credited to income when it is receivable, and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank. Expenditure Expenditure 15 recoEnised on an accruals basis inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered. Support costs are thosewhich assist the use of the Charity but do not directly represent charitable activities. They are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the oblects of the Charity. Support costs are allocated on a basis consistent with use of resources, Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the Charity and its assets and are primarily associated with constitutional and statutory requirements. These are included within support Costs 251P tiu) L
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Gu¥Yantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Aecounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (contlnued) Tangible fixed assets Purchases of over £500 are considered for capitalisation. Depreciation is provided as the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.. Fixtures and fittings 20% and 25% straight line Intangible fixed assets Purchases of over £500 are considered for capitalisation. Amortisation is provided at 20% on a straight-line basis in order to write off each a55et over its estimated useful life. Lease commitments Operating leases and the payments made under them are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Taxation The charitable company is registered as a charity and all of its income fa115 Wlthin the exemptions under Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 Fund accountlng Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the Trustees. Designated funds are unrestricted funds that have been designated towards a specific purpose by the trustee board. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the Charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for partlcular restricted purposes. Endowment funds are restricted funds that generate income to benefit the Charity over multiple years. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements. Pension costs and other post-retirement benef Its 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 Activities in the period towhlch they relate. Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due. Cash at bank and in hand Cash at bank and in hand includes bank accounts, 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 deposits or similar account. Creditor5 and provisions Creditors and provisions are recognised where the Charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Critical estimates and accountlng judgements In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liablllties that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experienceand other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised. The Trustees do not consider that there are any critical estimates or areas of judgement that need to be brought to the attention of the readers of the financSal statements. 261PagL
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Aeeounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) Income from donations and legacies Restrlcted Endowment Unrestrlcted Total 2024 Total 2023 Individual donations 56,115 56,115 68,329 Corporate donations 61,310 61,310 44,940 Legaciesjin memory donation5 6,150 6,150 14,036 123,575 123,575 127,305 There was no restricted or designated income during the year, or in the prior year. Income from charitable activities Restrlcted Endowment Unrestrlcted Total 2024 Total 2023 Trusts and Foundatlons 114,627 120,000 80,6SO 315,277 194,655 114,627 120,000 80.650 315,277 194,655 There was £132,780 restricted income from Trusts and Foundations during the prior year. There was no designated income during the year or in the prior year. Income from other trading actlvities Restricted Endowment Unrestrl¢ted Total 2024 Total 2023 Events 39,668 39,668 19,137 Local Authorlty fees 47,902 47,902 25,560 Other 795 795 2,198 88,365 88,365 46,895 There was no restricted or designated income during the year, or in the prior year. 271Pa
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts otes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) Investment Income Restrlcted Endowment Unrestrlcted Total 2024 Total 2023 Interest receivable 777 777 415 777 777 415 There wa5 no restricted or designated income during the year, or in the prior year. Analysis of Expenditure Depreciatlon/ Amortisation Staff Costs Othèr costs Total 2024 Total 2023 Ralsin8 Funds Activities undertaken directly 90,247 33,965 124,212 154,248 Support costs 2,808 2,808 2,353 90,247 36,773 127.020 156,601 Charltable actlvltles Activities undertaken directly 2.584 235.050 69,789 307,423 286,693 Support costs 7,315 7,315 4,802 2,584 235,050 77,104 314,738 291,495 Total 2,584 32S,297 113,877 441,758 448,096 Analysls of Support Costs Total 2024 Total 2023 Travel and training 2,881 1,901 HR & Payroll costs 950 2,020 Governance costs (note 91 6,292 3,234 10.123 7,155
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Aceoiints for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) Analysis of Governance Costs Total 2024 Total 2023 Professlonal fees 3,890 803 Independent examination fee 2,100 2,100 Other governance costs 302 331 6,292 3,234 10. Statement of flnancial activitie5 for the year ended 31 March 2023 Unrestrlcted funds Deslgnated funds Restrlcted funds Total 2023 Income from: Donations and legacie5 127,305 127,305 Charitable activities 61,875 132,780 194,655 Other trading actlvities 46.895 46,895 Investments 415 415 Total income 236,490 132,780 369.270 Ex et)dlture on: Raising funds 156,601 156.601 Charitable activities 154,584 136.911 291,495 Total Expenditure 311.185 136,911 448,096 Net Income / lexpenditurel and nèt movement In funds 174,6951 14,1311 178,8261 Reconclllatlon of Funds Total funds brought forward 207,049 77,850 24,732 309,631 Total funds carried forward 132.354 77,850 20.601 230,805 11. Trustees None of the trustees Inor any persons connected with them) recelved any remuneration or reimbursement of expenses during the year nor for the year ended 31 March 2023. 291PagJL
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity ILimited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) 12. Employees 2024 2023 Employee Informatlon Nurnber Number Average number of employees during the year: Employment costs Wage5 and salaries 242,628 255,656 Agency staff costs 56,962 30,826 Social Security costs 19,188 20,843 Other pension costs 6.519 5,983 325,297 313,308 No employees, annual emoluments totalled over £60,000 in either 2024 or 2023. During the year the key management personnel of the charitable company comprised of the CEO and the Fundraising Manager. The total employee benefits of the key management personnel lincluding Employerfs National Insurance Contributions) were £104,34512023'. £95,776). 13. Tanglble fixed assets Flxtures & flttlngs Total Cost At l Aprll 2023 and 31 March 2024 70,579 70.579 Depreciation At l AprS12023 64,318 64,318 Charge for the year 2,584 2,584 At 31 March 2024 66,902 66,902 Nèt book value At 31 March 2024 3,677 3,677 At 31 March 2023 6,261 6,261 14. Intangib5e fixed assets 30IPa
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity ILimit¢d by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) Software Total Cost and actumulated amortlsation At l April 2023 and 31 March 2024 25,992 25,992 Net book value At 31 March 2023 and 31 March 2024 15. Debtors 20Z4 2023 Amount5 falllng due wlthln one year Trade debtors 18,966 8,200 Prepayments and accrued income 1,385 2,445 Other debtors 11.700 11,700 32,051 22,345 16. Credltors 2024 2023 Amounts falllng due within onè year Trade creditors 7,919 2,941 Social security and other taxes 5.610 6,630 Accruals and deferred income 13,500 41,000 other creditors 1,254 2,578 28,283 53,149 17. Restricted Funds 31 |PAgF
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity (Limited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Aeeounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 {continued) The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes.. Movement In funds 2023124 Transfers between Funds Balance at I April 2023 Balance at 31 March 2024 Income Expenditure Salaries 17.976 107,627 192,5941 33,009 Equlpment 2,625 7,000 16,6251 3,000 20.601 114.627 199.2191 36,009 Salaries The salaries restricted fund comprises funds received to contribute towards specific roles within the service team le.g., within the Charitable Service). Equipment The equipment restricted fund comprises of income received that is specifically to be used to fund the purchase of equipment. The transfer out of the fund represents capital expenditure incurred in the year. 18. Designated Funds The income funds of the charity include designated funds comprising the following unexpended balances allocated by trustees towards specific purposes.. Movement In funds 20Z3124 Transfers between Funds Balance at i Apiil 2023 Balancè at 31 Marth 2024 Income Expendlture Legacy fund 77,850 77.850 77,850 77,850 The legacy designated fund comprises a legacy receipt allocated by the trustee board towards future project funding. 321Pag)L
Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity ILimited by Guarantee) Trustees, Report and Accounts Notes to the Aeeounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 (continued) 19. Endowment Funds The income funds of the charity include endowment funds comprising of the following unexpended balances.. Movement In fund$ 2023124 Transfers between Funds Balance at I April 2023 Balance at 31 March 2024 Intome Expendlture Edward Gostling fund 120,000 120.000 120,000 120,000 The endowmet)t fund was provided by The Edward Gostling Foundation to help the charity provide educational and other relevant related services to children with cerebral palsy and associated disabilities and their parents and carers. 20. Commitments under operating leases At 31 March 2024 the company had total commitments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows: Land & buildings Land & buildings 2024 2023 Expiry date: Within one year 34,8SO 48,300 Between two and five years 36,900 34.850 85,200 During 2016 the Charity took out a 5-year lease on premises at Holmsted Farm Cuckfield. The lease was extended from December 2021 for a further 3 years. Total lease payments recognised as an expense in the year amounted to £47,80012023.. £48,400). 21. Related Party Transactions There were no related party transactions in 2024 or 2023 22. Control Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. The Charity is controlled by the Trustees. 331 P a gJe
Document Activity Report Document Sent Tue, 18 Jun 2024 12'.52:10 GMT Document Activity History Document history shows most recent activity first Date Activity You can verify that Ihis is a genuine Portal document by uploading it to the following secure web page: http'.Iltcgroup.accountantspace.co.uklmessageslVerifyDocument