2021-03-31-accounts - Luton Council Of Faiths

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COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS LUTON COUNCIL OF FAITHS Annual Report 2020-2021

Charity no: 1089850

Luton Council of Faiths

Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) began with a group of people from different faiths during 1994-1995, as part of the Grassroots Programme.

On 10[th] July 1997, the Luton Interfaith Forum was launched and then in 2000 the name ‘Luton Council of Faiths’ was adopted.

LCoF then achieved independent charitable status in 2001.

Since then LCoF has continued to work as a partner with the Grassroots Programme and Luton Borough Council, whilst also networking with many other organisations within and beyond Luton’s borders.

Visit Our Website: www.lutonfaiths.org

Email Us:

info@lutonfaiths.org

Call Us:

01582 416946

Write To Us: Luton Council of Faiths C/O Grassroots Programme 47 High Town Road Luton Bedfordshire LU2 0BW

Like / Follow Us Online:

www.facebook.com/groups/LutonFaith www.twitter.com/LutonFaiths

Front Cover Image:

In memory of all those who lost their lives during this Pandemic

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Funders, Partners and Volunteers
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Core Funder

Bedfordshire & Luton Community Fund (BLCF) as part of the London Luton Airport Limited Community Investment Fund

Projects Funders

Near Neighbours Fund

Key Partners

Grassroots Programme
Luton Council
Bedfordshire Police
Luton SCARE

Key Supporters – Faith & Voluntary Organisations

Churches Together in Luton
Sunni Council of Mosques
Luton Council of Mosques
Guru Nanak Gurdwara
Shri Guru Ravi Dass Sangat
Shree Sanatan Seva Samaj Hindu Temple
BAPS Swami Narayan Hindu Temple
Bedfordshire Progressive Synagogue
Luton United Synagogue
Luton Bahai Community
Luton Quakers
Luton Sathya Sai Service Organisation
LanTern Luton
OM Group
Our Minds Matter (OMM)
Luton Fairtrade Steering Group
St Mary’s Centre for Peace and Reconciliation
Faiths Against Child Sexual Exploitation (FACES)
Luton Polish School
Luton Polonia
Luton Irish Forum
Luton Sixth Form College
University of Bedfordshire & Treehouse Chaplaincy
Ghar se Ghar
The Luton News and Herald & Post
Khayaal Theatre Company
Near Neighbours Programme

Along with the names above, we would also like to thank all those individuals who volunteer with Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF), offering their time, experience and expertise for the work we do!

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CONTENTS
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Message from the Chair – Professor Zafar Khan


Message from the Chair– Professor Zafar Khan	…..…………………………………………………………….….. Page 2
Few Words from the Director– David Jonathan	………………………………………………………………….…. Page 3
LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE	………………………………………………………………….…. Page 4
• Discover Islam	………………………………………………………………… …..Page 4
• Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat	………………………………………………………………….…..Page 5
• The Luton Salvation Army	…………………………………………………………………….…Page 6
• Go Dharmic	………………………………………………………………….……Page 7
• Digital Poverty	…………………………………………………………………….…Page 8
• Working with Public Health & messages	…………………………………………………………………….…Page 9
COMMUNITIES: FAITHS LEADERS UNITED FOR PEACE	...…………………………………………………………………… Page 10
MENTAL HEALTH & FAITHS DURING COVID	….…………………………………………………………………….Page 11
COMMUNITIES: PRAYERS OF HOPE FOR COVID-19	………………………………………………………….……….…..Page 14
ENGAGING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE	………………………………………………………………………..Page 15
PEACE WALK 2021	……………………………………………………………………….Page 16
COMMUNITIES: BLACK LIVES MATTER	…………………………………………………………………..…..Page 17
OTHER FAITHS COMMUNITY EVENTS	……………………..…………………………………………………Page 18
HONOURiNG OUR LOCAL HEROES	.……………………………………………………………..……….Page 19
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES	……………….….…………………………………………………….Page 20
BALANCE SHEET	…………………………………………………………………………Page 21
APPENDIX	..……………………………………………………………………..Page 22

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
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What a year we have left behind!

No one could have foreseen such a terrible and devastating impact of the pandemic that has left millions of people in our world and in our country and hundreds in our town isolated, grieved and bereaved by the losses of their loved ones due to Covid-19.

In a town like Luton, there are many who are also affected economically due to job losses and loss of work opportunities during the lockdowns.

Still it is worth celebrating the fact that communities have pulled together. We have all been looking out for each other. We can all be

so proud and grateful for our NHS, frontline and various key workers and also people working on the till, bin collectors, postmen, care workers and several others and volunteers as society relied on their services.

We are also hugely proud of the significant contributions made by our faith communities. In marking the International Day of Peace through our online Zoom Peace event we had celebrated Luton’s faith communities’ outstanding contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. We showed video clips, news items and pictures of communities in action.

Amidst fear, anxiety, bewilderment, grief and loss caused by the ongoing pandemic, the role of faith communities and places of worship has remained crucially vital in sustaining individuals, communities and public and voluntary sector institutions and organisations, particularly in places like Luton where 78% of people are religiously affiliated.

Places of worship and faith leaders have been the first port of call, for people in distress facing death, bereavement, isolation, mental health issues and issues of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Supporting and reassuring our faith leaders that they are not alone and that we are all together in this has been at the core of all our work undertaken during the last year.

We were also extremely saddened at George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis (US) in summer last year. As Luton’s faith communities we believe that racism is abhorrent in all our religious traditions and practices. We therefore, condemn any attempt to misuse religion or religious scriptures to silence those who highlight the scourge of racism in our societies. We express our solidarity with #BlackLivesMatter Global Network. It is essential for our human well-being that different races, religions and ethnicities meet together to listen, learn and share knowledge and expertise for the common good, always being mindful of the dignity and inestimable value of every human being.

We also stand in solidarity with people across the world especially minorities and refugees facing similar lifethreatening challenges. It is our duty to protect the vulnerable by making our voices heard condemning acts of racism, oppression, denial of fundamental Human rights and violence against innocent people because of their racial, religious or ethnic backgrounds.

May we restore communal harmony by initiating healing where traumatic past & present hinders it and so that we may all stand and act together for the common good to bring in justice, equality, equity and fairness in our world!

Professor Zafar Khan

FEW WORDS FROM THE DIRECTOR

The World Bank predicts that 100 million people could be pushed into extreme poverty this year, erasing almost all progress made in the last five years.

By the end of this year in the UK, the number of people classed as destitute (unable to afford essentials like housing, energy, and food) is estimated to rise by around 700,000.

Although we have said “We are all in this together” we must know some of us are affected more than the other and that the poor are impacted the most.

More than half of Luton’s population includes people who are vulnerable to disproportionate impact and severity of COVID-19, including BAME (Black, Asian & minority ethnic) communities, elderly and deprived populations. Luton Council’s severe budget cuts due to Covid-19, added with local economic downturn due to sharp drop in income from the London Luton Airport, is having a massive knock on effect on the Council’s services and its voluntary & faith sector partners.

Besides high deprivation, many people in Luton have been pushed further to the margins due to job losses or loss of work opportunities during the lockdowns. Therefore, the defining assumption of “business as usual” that there is little need to change, needs to be examined, keeping in mind our responsibilities, not just towards the fellow human beings but also towards the environmental well-being.

Therefore, while on one hand, we are still supporting and promoting local fundraising initiatives and food donations for Luton Food Bank, but on the other hand, during the Fairtrade Fortnight 2021 we also promoted the theme – “Choose the World You Want – Climate, Fairtrade & You”. This campaign emphasized on the need for our collective activism for climate justice. The campaign highlighted how climate change affects farmers and workers in countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia and Honduras, who have done the least to contribute to climate change, but are disproportionately affected by it.

In the light of such life-threatening realities, as we go further into this period of having to live our lives so very strangely compared to what we are used to, it is right that we commit ourselves and invite others also to join in, to be at the forefront of fighting not just the pandemic but also the threats of racism, poverty, unemployment, climate change and we believe that together we can get through this.

We are still discerning how the coronavirus pandemic will change the face of our country and our town and what new challenges it might bring for us and particularly for those marginalised and living in extreme poverty. Locally, many volunteers, community & faith leaders have been involved at various fronts trying to support local people and the community based services as well as offering assistance to grieving families. It's been crucially important to have stayed in touch with all and align efforts where possible. Luton is known for its resilience and its ability to come together in solidarity during challenging times – it’s been so true in the last year and we remain optimistic that this will continue to make us a stronger community as we continue to wrestle our way through this critical phase, so that Covid-19 crisis is remembered, not just for the loss of life, but also for the community compassion, care and collaboration.

David Jonathan

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LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE
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We would like to honour the great deal of work in our faith communities especially during this pandemic that has hit hard on many people, many families and has increased poverty. From emergency packs, to giving away food parcels and PPE, our communities have been at all fronts delivering help and service. Generosity comes from nobility. We cannot applaud enough the on-going generosity across faiths in our town. Below are some of the key and iconic images of the faith-based organisations that have been visibly at the forefront serving the needy in our town.

Discover Islam

During the Lockdown Discover Islam team helped to save over £100k worth of food produce with limited shelf life from ending up on landfill. These food items were distributed to assist and support the organisations working on the front lines in Luton. Moreover, from its curry kitchen to working with the homeless, addressing child poverty and uniform exchange for the needy, Discover Islam has established a proven track record of its ongoing community service in Luton, partnering with many organisations, especially Christian charities in Luton, for the common good.

LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE cont…

Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat

From April 2020 – March 2021 Shri Guru Ravidass Sangat has provided 16,000 hot meals serving charities, the community gardeners, the NHS and the needy on a weekly basis. This is a remarkable measure for any organisation, more so for the size of this Sikh community in Luton. Our Sikh friends have certainly been busy and working in partnership with the rest of the town.

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LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE cont…
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The Luton Salvation Army

Families, companies, charities, churches, mosques and schools donated in total, over 5000 toys to Luton Salvation Army Christmas Toy Appeal, which benefitted 1072 children just during the Christmas period.

Of course the Salvation Army is known for more than that; its work never stops. From helping the homeless to helping people with debt, the organisation is crucial for the survival of needy in our town. It has also been delivering hot meals like Fish and Chips, gifts and goodies to lots and lots of elderly, lonely and vulnerable people in Luton.

LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE cont…

Go Dharmic

Recently founded in Luton, Go Dharmic is a Hindu led charity with its motto ‘love all – feed all’. When we were in the middle of this pandemic last year, the charity reached a landmark of serving one millionth meal in Luton. Go Dharmic has been working with businesses and local restaurants from across different faiths and has been serving communities, schools and the local university too.

LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE cont…

Digital Poverty

In Luton 46% of young people live in poverty. Poverty means young people do not have all the equipment they need for learning from home, including a digital device and WiFi. The government scheme to provide digital access will only supply devices to Year 10 students (14-15 year olds) who are entitled to a free school meal. There is no provision for students in other year groups, or for young people who live in poverty but do not get a free school meal.

Without a device to work on at home, young people fall behind in their studies and miss out on developing key skills when compared to their peers.

This causes young people to worry because they know that they do not have what they need to fully participate in their studies, leaving them to feel more uncertain than ever about their future.

Luton Learning Link has been put together by the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and a group of organisations from Luton including Luton Borough Council Education Service, Luton Council of Mosques, Luton Sunni Council of Mosques, Leve Trust and We Are Luton.

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LUTON FAITHS COMMUNITIES COVID-19 RESPONSE cont…
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Working with Public Health & Messaging

A special Community and Faith leaders meeting ran weekly, throughout the pandemic, to advise and support public health messages to the local communities which has been crucial to get the right information to the public. Luton’s faith communities supported this by taking action at their own cost and creating their own community messaging providing much needed help and advice to the communities.

COMMUNITIES: FAITHS LEADERS UNITED FOR PEACE

Far-right activism, Hinduphobia, Antisemitism and Islamophobia

Britain First

Firstly, it was deeply saddening to see that Britain First groups felt the need once again to visit Bury Park area of Luton on 19th Oct’20 and 12th Dec’20. Due to lockdown and restrictions there wasn’t much they could do, but their presence was enough in stirring up (inter) communal anxieties locally and certainly digitally as they film provocative aspects of their presence in Luton and upload on the social media to stir and mislead people. Britain First’s focus on “Grooming Gangs” is a very sad reflection of how little they know about Islam, about the realities of sexual exploitation of young

people, and about Luton. They want to know nothing about the work Muslims and Christians have done together in FACES (Faiths Against Child Sexual Exploitation). The challenge of any such unpleasant extremist intervention can be disastrous for community relations as they seek to incite hatred and they deliberately and tactfully provoke people to react in a way which can prove the fact that they are victims in their homeland at the hands of the so-called foreigners. The network of Christian leaders passed on their sincere commiserations and ensured together with everyone Luton sends a strong message of condemnation to all such tactics that seek to divide the town. Bedfordshire Police and the Luton Council explored looking into obtaining a further injunction given the success of the last one to help dissuade any such activities.

Reading Stabbing:

Following the stabbings in Reading on 20th June 2020, in a statement published locally, Luton’s faith communities shared solidarity with people in Reading, sending a strong message of defiance to all extremists, that we will not be divided. A letter expressing solidarity from Luton’s Mayor to Reading’s Mayor was also a commendable effort.

Hate Mail sent to Hindu Temple

Following a hate mail sent to the Hindu Temple on 18th Nov’20, anonymously by someone posing as a Muslim required both Hindu-Muslim communities to come together, to feel acknowledged and affirmed and to be reminded of the need for us to care for one another, because attack on one is attack on us all. To avoid any breeding ground for doubts and hate, it was proposed that a meeting, if considered necessary, could be arranged between Hindu & Muslim community leaders/representatives to exchange and re-affirm the mutual communal solidarity. Considering pandemic restrictions, it was difficult to meet physically but before a virtual meeting could be explored, Councils of Mosques formally wrote to the Hindu Temple saying “this is upsetting and unacceptable behaviour. We have shared this across our Mosques and the responses have been unequivocal in their dismay and sadness that you have been hurt in this way. We stand in absolute solidarity with you at this time - as we stand beside any faith group that is targeted by such malicious attempts to ridicule others and incite hatred. As Muslims we have often been at the receiving end of such hostile communications, and we know first-hand the anxiety and fear it can create within a community.”

We had also raised this matter in one the bi-monthly meetings of the Luton Council of Faiths. Everyone condemned this malicious act and in that meeting, Chair of Luton Council of Faiths (being a Muslim) said it out loud that this is not consistent with Islam and its core beliefs. Strongly condemning it, he said unacceptable acts such as these are not to be tolerated and joined by others he strongly recommended that it must be reported to the Police so that any malicious efforts such as these inciting hatred are traced and eliminated.

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MENTAL HEALTH & FAITHS DURING COVID
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As the numerous faiths/voluntary groups were busy starting a series of great and key initiatives and taking swift actions to address poverty in the town, to support the NHS and the key workers, as a Council of Faiths we identified a missing dimension of pandemic impacting people’s mental health and addressed it by raising awareness about it right at the start of the pandemic by working in partnership with the faith-based mental health charity called Our Minds Matter. We also created and produced resources providing guidance for people, especially for those working from home.

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MENTAL HEALTH & FAITHS DURING COVID cont….
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Podcast Series on ‘Spirituality & Mental Health’ and ‘Death & Bereavement’

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COMMUNITIES: PRAYERS OF HOPE FOR COVID-19
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Prayers by faiths communities- Hope in the face of Loss & Despair

Different faiths communities were invited to contribute a message of hope, a prayer or poem to elevate people’s spirits. These contributions were designed and published online. From the many contributions we had received, a few selected prayers, scriptures & inspirational quotes are presented below.

The Holy Quran verses reminded us not to despair. Along difficulty, Allah grant ease. The Bahai reflection highlighted transformation in human world; in adversities, many are uniting to help those in need.

The Torah encouraged us not to despair. God performs the role of comforter. It reminded that surviving despair is a character-transforming experience. You realise life is not about you. It is about others. A humanist poem called us to value the love of our friends and neighbours and the beautiful creation. Hindus, Sikhs and Jains Diwali celebrations reminded us that “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” Reading of Psalms from The Bible and St Mary’s Church’s 900 years history of witnessing human suffering and its recovery were powerful symbols of God’s restoring power in the difficult times.

Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh quote summed up this event well. “Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.”

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ENGAGING WITH YOUNG PEOPLE
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Mental Health

During our podcast series on Spirituality and Mental Health we also engaged with our young people exploring how COVID-19 has impacted on their spiritual and mental health. This followed up with one of our volunteers Nitin Varma who led a project with the Luton Youth Council and produced over 500 Mental Health Wellbeing Bags. A number of High Schools in Luton welcomed the project.

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PEACE WALK 2021
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Zooming Peace

This was quite an inspiring event commemorating International Day of Peace. Every year, LCoF commemorates International Day of Peace at its Annual Peace Walk event in which Luton’s communities of faith or no faith background visit different places of worship and enjoy hospitality. Due to Covid –19, this year’s peace walk event was held online. Therefore, it was called ‘Zoom Peace’ event.

It celebrated Luton’s faith communities’ outstanding work during the Covid-19 pandemic, by showing video clips, news items and pictures of community in action. All dignitaries (including Lord Lieutenant, Mayor of Luton, MPs, Chair of United Nations Association, Luton) admired and applauded Luton's faith communities, saying places of worship and faith leaders have been the first port of call, for people in distress facing death, bereavement, isolation, mental health issues and issues of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

It is great that on ‘International Peace Day’ our communities are being recognized and affirmed for their outstanding services. Southfield and Chantry Primary School pupils shared poems and numerous community leaders and representatives contributed to the evening uplifting everyone’s spirit to continue serving those in need. Concluding the evening Right Reverend Richard Atkinson, C of E Bishop of Bedford said we are all created, loved and valued by God. We must therefore continue to ask what more I can do for others. High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada said, “Two words I take from this evening are ‘HOPE’ & ‘PEACE’.

COMMUNITIES: BLACK LIVES MATTER

Black Lives Matter Luton protest was described and praised in the media as being a “profound”, moving” and “dignified” protest in the town.

The killing and death of George Floyd in Minneapolis (US) on 25th May had triggered widespread protests calling out the systemic racism embedded in our society. In Luton, nearly 2000 people had joined in the Black Lives Matter protest on Sat 6th June at 2pm at the Luton Town Hall War Memorial. It was mainly initiated by a group of (important to say here) black and white young people, but to avoid disruptive and rogue participation of those like anarchists, it was considered best that faith leaders act as stewards at the protest. Since the protest will have taken place anyway, even the Bedfordshire Police had favoured the idea that faith leaders were there, not to support, promote or partake in the protesting, but to ensure it goes safe & peaceful.

OTHER FAITHS COMMUNITY EVENTS

International Women’s day

This year’s Precious Pearls event celebrating women across faiths & cultures focused on the theme “Women Somewhere Over the Rainbow”. It was held online by Ghar se Ghar (Hindi/Urdu Words meaning ‘Home to Home’) – a Luton based women’s co-op group. In the event, women shared stories how they had come from ‘somewhere over the rainbow’ (distant parts of the world) to Luton, to fulfill their hopes, dreams and aspirations and have made Luton their much loved home now. Revd Jo Burke of All Saints Church shared how different faiths have come together to help the refugees in Luton, providing them the winter clothing and English lessons. Jill Boyd of the Oasis Centre talked of helping women with drop-in sessions and homework clubs. Faith Merriwether talked of LASE (Luton Against Sexual Exploitation) and Azalea charity concerned with women’s sexual health in Luton. Elizabeth Chapman of Signposts charity talked of helping the homeless in Luton. Pari Rashid shared how she had started ‘Ghar se Ghar’ group in 1990s, which has served hundreds of women over the years.There were other presentations of poetry, singing, piano recital and dance movements using hands only.

Annual Peace Light Service

The Annual Peace Light Service held online on 14th Dec’20 in which a flame is brought from Bethlehem to mark the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Vicar of All Saints Church Revd David Kesterton said, “In a year when darkness seemed to have prevailed in so many ways, we have seen the light of kindness and generosity shared across our communities, not from the position of power but moved by love and vulnerability, which reflects exactly the sort of love we celebrate at Christmas.” We helped bring in the contributions from Hindu, Sikh & Muslim friends who spoke on "what my faith tells me about the light that shines in the darkness". High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada DL said, “The whole service was delightful. I see the Christmas trees and the Christmas lights, but this service had highlighted the true meaning of Christmas.”

Tree of Hope

St Mary’s Church launched Tree of Hope in its Churchyard opposite the Mall. Whatever creed or colour, all were welcomed to express prayers, laments, sorrow, pain, hopes and dreams by hanging a ribbon on the Tree, to signify the collective heart cry of Luton people, in hope for everyone’s well-being in our town, nation and world.

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HONOURING OUR LOCAL HEROS
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The Bedfordshire High Sheriff Award

The High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Awards this year honoured a number of our local faiths activists for their outstanding work mentioned in this report. It makes our faith communities feel proud for such well-deserved recognition has been bestowed upon them for their relentless efforts throughout the pandemic, despite all the odds they faced.

Luton Council of Faiths

Statement of Financial Activities For the Period Ended 31[st] March 2021

	Notes	Unrestricted funds 2021	Unrestricted funds 2021	Restricted income funds 2021	Restricted income funds 2021	Endowment Funds 2021	Total funds 2021	Total funds 2021	funds	funds
Incoming resources
Income and endowments from:
-Donations and legacies		3,165			-	-	3,165		3,859
- Investments		-			-	-	-		-
- Charitable activities	6	53,602			-	-	53,602		68,925
- Other Income		-			1,500		1,500		1,500
*Total incoming resources*		56,767			1,500	-	58,267		74,284

Resources expended
Expenditure on:	4-10
Raising funds
Costs of generating voluntary income		-			-	-	-		-
Fundraising trading costs		-			-	-	-		-
Investment management costs		-			-	-	-		-
Charitable activities		322			-	-	322		1,490
Governance and support costs		54,085			-	-	54,085		60,149
Other expenditure		-			-	-	-		9,860

Total expenditure		54,407			-	-	54,407		71,499


Net Movement in Funds			2,360		1,500	-		3,860		2,785

Reconciliation of Funds
Total funds brought forward		43,278		(19,414)		-	23,864		21,079

Total funds carried forward		45,638		(17,914)		-	27,724		23,864

Luton Council of Faiths Balance Sheet As at 31[ST] March 2021

	Notes	Unrestricted funds 2021	Restricted income funds 2021	Restricted income funds 2021	Endowment Funds 2021	Total this year 2021	Total this year 2020
Fixed Assets
Tangible Assets		-		-	-	-	-

Total Fixed Assets		-		-	-	-	-

Current Assets
Debtors	11		-		-	-	-
Cash at bank and in hand		28,634			-	28,634	24,464

Total current assets		28,634			-	28,634	24,464

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year	12	(600)		-	-	(600)	(600)

Net current assets		27,724		-	-	27,724	23,864



Funds of the Charity
Unrestricted funds		45,638				45,638	43,278
Restricted Income funds				(17,914)		(17,914)	(19,414)
Endowment funds					-	-	-

Total funds		45,638		(17,914))		27,724	23,864

– Appendix 1 Letter to Prime Minister

27[th] May 2020

The Rt Hon Boris Johnson Prime Minister 10, Downing Street, London SW1A 2AA

Dear Prime Minister,

Greetings from Luton Council of Faiths!

The ongoing global Coronavirus pandemic is putting everything to test. Everyone, public institutions, businesses, voluntary organisations are under pressure. However, we are concerned that the places of worship are overlooked. In a faith leaders and stakeholders’ meeting convened online by the Luton Council of Faiths on 26th May 2020, it is agreed that we highlight these concerns.

Amidst anxiety, fear, bewilderment, grief and loss caused by the ongoing pandemic, the role of faith communities and places of worship has remained crucially vital in sustaining individuals, communities and public and voluntary sector institutions and organisations, particularly in places like Luton where 78% of people are religiously affiliated.

However, without any income during this lockdown period, the very survival of our places of worship is at stake.

In addition, we already know that the faith sector in Luton, along with the rest of the town, is going to be hit particularly hard due to the seismic economic impacts of the town’s airport being shut down for such a long period. This is a matter of considerable concern of which I know you are aware since the local community and council has brought it to your attention.

Therefore, we are writing this letter to

highlight the fact that places of worship and faith leaders are the first port of call, for people in distress facing death, bereavement, isolation, mental health issues and issues of physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.
request that government’s plans for help at this time must include Britain’s places of worship too, as it is critical to sustaining the overall well-being of our nation.
thank the government’s previously announced places of worship Security Fund. A similar specific fund needs to be generated to help ease the pressures on places of worship as there’s an ever increasing demand on their services, after difficult and challenging times.
strongly support the community campaign on behalf of the whole town to provide a crisis fund to Luton to stop essential services for our most vulnerable people being drastically cut or closed from as early as July 2020.

Thanking you. Yours sincerely,

Zafar Khan Chair, Luton Council of Faiths

Cc: Luton’s Faith Communities & Places of Worship, MPs Luton North and Luton South, Lord Stephen Greenhalgh, Faith Minister Robert Jenrick MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Faith and Communities) Stephen Timms MP, Chair of the APPG Faith and Society

NHS AND KEY WORKERS LUTON COUNCIL OF FAITHS

R¢8iStered charity number: 1089850 LLrroN COUNCIL OF FATrFts FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31ST MARCH 2021

Lnton Covndl of Filths Perxtyd Fnded 31 March 2021 Contemts Charity Infomution Trustees. Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet 10-13. Notrs to the Financial Statements 14. Indcpcndcnt Examiner's Rewrt

Luton Coundl of F21ths Charity Infom*lK¥n M at 31M Mareh 2021 Cb2rity ll2me Luton Council of Faiths Cha_"ity number 1089850 PrTn¢ipo1 d.¢s1 47 High Town Road Luton B¢dford8hire LU2 OBW Trll$te Mr ZAfar Khan- Chairperson Mrs Gulie Butcher- Vice Chair Mr Kishore Kaler- Treasurer Mr T)hansukh Pan¢hal Mr Ramnik Gohil Bankerj The Cowoperative Bank Alma Str1 Luton Bedfordshirc LUI 2PL Lloyds TBS Bank Pl 60 George Street Luton Bedfordshire LUI 2BB Andepeadent tMIner T. Hussain & Co Limited Chartered Acwuntants and Business advisors I l George Street West Luton Bedfordshire LUI 2BJ

L4ton Council of F•lth• Histo ectives and activities of the Chari On constitution it was believed thc rnulticultural cohesion of the religious and cultural communities in Luton required addressing. The charity began with an initial grant. Both the initial grant and subsequent grants since have been under the ternis which allow the tnte ts) either rethin the amounts as c8Pital or to spend them. The obje¢tiv¢s of the clwity include; A) To bring together members of the diffcrcnt faith communities in Luton for dcepcr dialogue and ¢cOperatiOn b) To increRse understanding and trust bctwcen diffcrcnt fait1 building on Common ground bctwttn thern yet respecting the unique Contriblon which each br&ng$ c) To work towards grcater social cohesion and community integration in Luton d) To see inter faith co-opcration as linking in¢0 global COwoperAtion betwccn faiths and culturcs for the creation of a better world Mana emenl and Governance arran cme The constitution provides for a minimum of five In8. Where there is a requirement for new trustee4 these would be identified and appointed by thc remaining trustre& subject to th¢ approval by AGM. The ¢hair of the trustees is responsible for the induction of any new trustee which involves awareness of a tr8tec,s responsibiliry. th¢ governing documenL administ1vC procedures, the history and philosophical approach of the charity. The tnjstees have tsken steps to identify major risks to which the ¢harity 1$ exposed and system$ hav¢ been blished to mitlBate those risks. the Chari Introduction What a year we have left behind. No one could have forcseen such a trrrible and devastatin8 impact of the pandcmic that has l¢ft thousands of 0P1¢ in our world and in our country and hundreds in our town isolated, grieved and bereaved by th¢ losscs of their loved ones due to Covid-19. More than half of Luton's population includes people who are vulnerablc to disprow)rtionatr irnpact and VCrity of COVID-19, includin8 BAME (Black, Asian & minority ethnic) communities. elderly and deprived populations. Luton Council's severe budget cuts due to Covid-19, added with local economic downturn due lo sharp drop in income from the London Luton AirporL is having a mwiv¢ knock on effect on the Council's services and its voluntary & faith sector parlners. Besides high deprivation, many people in Luton have been pushed further to the margins due to job Iosscg or lo of work opp)rtsmities durin8 the lockdowns. Still it is worth celebrating the fact that communities have pullcd together. We have all been looking out for cach other. Wc can all be so proud and grateful for our NHS, frontline and other key workers and also people worklng on the till, bin collectors. wstmen and several others. We rnt al80 feel proud of the significant contributions made by our faith CA)mmunities.

Amidst fear, anxiety, bewildernenL gryief and lo caused by the ongoing pandemic. the role of faith communities and places of worship h&s remained crucially vital in sStainLg individuals communities and public and voluntary sector institulions and organisation% partlcularly in places like Luton where 78 % of people are religiously affiliated. Places of worship and faith leaders have been the first port of call, for people in distress facing (kath, bercavemen1, isolation, mcntal heahh issues and issues of physical, emotional and Spiritu well-being. Supporting and rcassuring our faith Icaders that they are not alone and that we are aLI together in this has been at the core of all our work undertaken during the last year. We were also extremely saddened at George Floyd's killing in Minncapolis (US) in summer l&st ye. As Luton's faith communitie5 we believe rncism is abhorrent in all our religio tradilions and practiccs. We therefoTe, condemn Bny attempt to misuse religion or religious scriplures to gilence those who highlight the scourge of racism in our societies. We express our solidarity with #BlackLive5Matter Global Nctwork It is esscntiAI for our human well-bcing that different races, religions and ethnicities meet tog¢therto liste learn and sharc knowledge and cxpcrtise for the common g(KNI. always being mindful of the dignity and inestimable value of every human being. We also stand in solidarity with people acros5 the world especially minorities and refugees facing similar life-threatening challenges. It is our duty to pro*ct the vulnerable by rnaking our voices heard condemning acts of racism and violcnce against itmocent people because of their raci21, religious or ethnic backgrounds. May we restore communal harn]ony by initiating healing where traumatic past & psent hinders it and so that we may all stand and gether for the common 8)d to bring in justice, equality, equity and fairness in our world! ovid- 19 Work U During and after the easing of lockdown(s), our work & main Activities have included: attending weekly briefing and networking m¢¢tings r¢ Covid-19 wnv¢ned jointly by thc local authority. public health & Police a) Faith and Community Group Briefings b) Care of the Dcccascd Group Mectings addressing 'crema(ion and burial, concerns c) Community Forn Mc¢tingg d) Covid-19 Champions meetin8S e} Excessive Death Planning Meetings Pastoral Care Scheme for NHS staff and for communiiies g) & a special briefing on m8n4ging isolation in Mulii-Generdtional Households & ¢¢adIng it through our faith n¢tworks particularly in blacK Asian & minority ethnic (BAME) communities supwrting and promoting appeals for donations from Luton Food Bank to Luton's faTth ommunities. which saw the biggest drive of service, raising fund, food donatsons. delivery of hot meals particularly durin8 the religio$ festivities. 3. supporting pla of Worship to go through guidelines abo RE-OPENJNG and Bet advice from the Council & Public Health, particularly in the months ofJune & Nov'20 collecting & pr¢8¢ntins d¢vOtionaVripd1 quoteslpraycrs from Luton's faith communities, to all An our networks, for supporL encouragemenL comfort and healing 5. promoting and supporting PO Francis ¢all for all faiths none rting together wlth Muslims on 14 May'20 during Ramadan for end of COV[[1 9 https:11orn.tv16ga3n

Sourcing helpfi infornmtion re SAFE (Security Advice for Everyone) guidance for safety against extremist attacks and for secure livestreaming of religious services and other similar meetings and ¢vents held online by different faith communities. through the expenise of the Community Securiry Trust (CST - a British chariry primarily concerned with the safety and security. of the Jewish communities in the UK) 7 Helping Church of England St Albans Diocese in pparIng a Covid-19 Pastoral Care Scheme, for NHS and for communities, across the county of Bedfordshire in which Luton Council of Faiths remained one of the key conthct p)ints for multi faith nee(L8 in Luton The following resources. prodUd kindly by Luron Council of Faiths. were also widely circulats appreciated, admired and applauded by over 9(Ki peoplc.
A Guide supporting your Mental Health. Resilience and Well-being while working from home https:Ilslatic l.squarespace.comlstatic15?71666ae4b08363c17bd7b41t15eafl ea937ba131 c87f41 eeel 15885349811771LCoF+Supporting-your-mental-h¢alth-LCOF-Final.pJf
My Daily Action Planner https'.l/staticl.5quarespace.comlststi¢15271666a¢4b08363¢171N17b41t15¢afl¢61606a9567bc3daOc31 1588534895774ILCoF+DAIL Y+pLAN+LoCK+Down.pdf
Faith Matters Column published in the Luton Ncws highlighting positive contributions of l.uton's different faith eA)mmunities er LCOF Even ZooTd* Pe8¢e FJV¢Dt (Sep'20) This was quitc inspiring evcnt commemorating International Day of Peace. F.vcry year, LCOF commemorates Intemational Day of Peace at its Annual Peace Walk event in which Luton's Communities of faith or no faith background visit different pla¢e$ of wt)rship and cnjoy hospitality. Due to Covid-19, this y¢ar's p¢a¢e walk eveni w&8 held online. Therefore. it was called 'Zoom Peace, cvent. It celebrated Luton's faith communiti&q' outstAnding work during the Covid-19 pandemic. by showing video clips, news items and pictures of community in aclion. High SherilTof Bedfordshire Susan Lousada sail "Two words I tskc from this ¢v¢ning- 'HOPE' & 'PEACE ope in the face of Lou & DespAlr- Seelng 'Llgbt' throngh the Dark (Nov120) In this cvcnt friends from differeni faiths had made their contributions and $hared briefly prayers, scriptural & other inspirational quotes on the theme. The Holy Quran Vers reminded us nol to despair. After a ditTiculty, Allah WTII soon grant relief. A verse from the Sikh scripture Shri Gurn Granth Sahib assured, "Why are you afrai O human! The Creator will save you." Quaker Book of Faith and Practice said light is already shining into the darkness. and the darkness cannot overcome IL Bahai reflection highlighted transfonnation in human world- in adversities, many are unitin8 to help those in need. The Torah encouraged us not to despair. wfornis the role of cornforter. It reminded that surviving despair is a charactcr-transforniing experience. You realise life is not about you. It is about others. A humanist poem called us to value the love of our friend8 and neighExTrurs and the beautiful creation. Hindus, Sikhs and Jains Diwalt celebrations reminded us that "Hope is being able to see that there is light despitc all of the darkness." Reading of Psalms from The Rible and St Mary's Church's 900 yeays history of witnessing human suffering and its recovery were powerfuI symbols of God'5 restoring FK)wer in the difficult times. Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh quote summed up this event well. "Hope is important because it can make the present moment Ic&s diificult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hard8hip today."

Giii'ernnieni Research Projects (Oct & Dec'2•7 The Prime Minister had asked Danny Kruger MP for propN)sals to sustain the community spirit we saw during the fitEt lockdovrn. We contributed our responscs from Luton asking for a more local. MO humane, less bureaucratic, less centralised work ethics. In Oct'20, The Prime Ministrr respondcd positivety tr) Kn]gcr's prow)sals and a rep)rt is available for download here: https:/lwww.dannykrn8er.org.uk/communities-report In Dec'20 the Independenr Faith Review was carried out by Colin Bloom aq the Faith Engagement Advis¢r ai the Ministry of Housing. Communities and Local Govcmmcnt (MHCLG). H¢ led thT5 review tr) discem how best the government should engage with faith groups. https.'IlwwW.gov.ukJgovemmentlconsulL10nind¢p¢ndcD[-faIth-cngagcrncnt-rieW-c41ll-f0r<VId¢ncc hts- Communi Tree ofHope (Sep'20) St Mary's Church launched Tree of Hope in its Churthyard opw)silc the Mall. Whatever cre¢d or colour. all were welcomed to express prayers kncnts, sorrow, pain, hopes and drrn$ by hanging a ribbon on the Tr¢< to signify thc colleciive heart cry of Luwn pcopl¢. Annu81 Ptate Llght S¢rvl¢e (Dec'20) In thc Annual Pcace Light Service held online on 14th Dec'20 8 flame. as always, was brought frorn Bethlehem to rnark the celebration of the birth of Jesus Chrisl. Vicar of All Saints Church Revd David Kesterton said, "In a year when dat*ness seemed to have prcvailed in so many ways, we have seen the light of kindness And generosity shared across our communities, which reflects thc love we celebrate at Christmas," High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and Hindu, Sikh & Muslim friends also spoke on 'what my faith tells about the light in the darkn¢ss'. UNA Luton Events (Qct920_ Feb'21) We Supported & promotcd the UNA Luton bron¢h organisc online events as followin8: a) 20th D'20- UN Int'l Human Solidariry Day b) 24th Oct'20- UN Day on c) l O Jan'21- UN Model Citizens, Ass¢mbly on "Should the UK Join the UN'S Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weap)ns (TPNW)T' d) 30 Jan'21- Climate Crisi5: Our Ocean. Our Future c) 27 Feb'21- Int'l Mother Language Day.. Valuing Identity, Culwrt, Divcrsity & P¢a PY¢lous PeArL8 2021 (Women Only Onlin¢ Lv¢nt) ilth TrlaTeh Thi8 year's Precious Pearls event celcbrating women across faiths & cultures focused on the th¢m¢ "Women Som¢wh¢re Over the Rainbow". It was held online by Ghar se Ghar IHindi/Urdu Words rneaning 'Home to Hom¢')- a Luton based women's cfrop group. In the evenl women shared 5tori¢s how they had come from 'somewhere over the rainbow. (distant parts of the world) to Luton. to flllfill their hopes, drcam8 and aspimions and have made Luton their muth loved home now. We are n¢v¢r too small to make differcncc way the key message in thx$ ev¢nt. Key =hallenge8 Following the stabbings in Reading on 20th June 2020. in a statement publish¢d locally, Lutr)n's faith communities shared solidarity with people in Readin8, %nding a strong message of defiance to ail ¢xtreMiS that we will not be divided.

Brlt&lD F'rst GroLPS (Oct & nec'20) It was deeply saddening that even during the pandemic Britain First groups felt the need to show up in Luton. Due to the lockdown and restrictions there w&8n'l much they could do. buttheir presence wa5 enough in stirring up (inter) communal anxietics locally and certainly digitally &s they mislead people using the social media. Joined by all faith communities. Christian leaders in particular passed on their commiserations and projected a strong mcssag¢ of condemnation to all such tactics that seek to divid¢ the town Covid- 19 Posteode Racis Constant scapegoating of the 'other' within our society. hostility and inaccurate perceptions exaCeated by negative and inaccurate reporting of facts in the media/80¢ial mcdi& has led to the postcode racism on multiple oc410n8. Unprecedented levels of rncism have been Shed acmss Social media platfonns towards Asians & Muslims. This is despit Luton's faith communities doing their b¢& to Spulate the Covid-19 threats and put in safety measures even before the government introduced the lockdown. which helped significantty in saving rnany lives. OVIO - 19 Impact on Places 0! Worship IPOW) No lettings of places of worship buildings and fa¢ilAtieS 8everely affected income to sustain religious buildings. A letter was Sent to the Prime Minister &8ktng for a specific fimd for help. B12ek Llves Matter (3LM) The killing and death of George Floyd in Minneapolis {US) in May 2020 had triggcred widcsprcad protests alling out the sy3temic rncism embedded in our society. In Luton, nearly 2000 people from different faiths and cthnicitics had joined in th¢ Black l.ives Maucr pro*st held on Sat 6 June at 2pm at the l.uton Town Hall War Memorial. Many faith leaders volunteered to act as protest stewards to ensure protest rcmains peaccful & safe for all. Pas Llyod Denny, Chair of Ilon in Flarn)uny said'we just cannot be spectators. We must call out injustices we ¢ and we must do so, inspired by love for all." CoDcIusioD In the light of all the work undertaken It yur 8nd challenges hTghlighted in this repor¢ it is cvid¢nt that we are all created to be InterlePendeThL Just like the ec05yStem 15 and that when suffering bypasses race, gend¢r, religion, and nation. wc hav¢ no Oth Option but to live in rnutual solidarity. Luton Council of Faiths remain committed o fost¢r our collcctivc human solidarlty to sustsin ug through th¢se extra-ordinary times o cncouragc us all to choose pc&ce ovcr pAnic, hop¢ ovu hysr¢ria and faith over fear inancial review and reserves The net incoming resources for the y¢ar was a surp15 of £3.860 (2020- £2.785). At the end of the financial year the reserves were £45,638 (2020 - £43278) of unrestrietrd fimds and a deficit of £17.914 (2020 - deficit of £19.414) of re5triCtcd funds. The adequacy of the reserves policy is reviewed Annually. The trustees are satisfiedthat reserves are presently mort than adequate to meet futtwe expenditLC. The reserves policy is to have reserves available in order to ensure the day to day operation continue into the foreseeable fuwre. Future The trustees inteDd to Continue provide rclicf in a Similar manncr as before.

Post balance sheet events The events of the Coronovirus outbreak shall signifiwdy affect th¢ opcrntions of the charity, the rcsults of the operations or the stat¢ of affairs of th¢ ¢Ilty in th¢ financi81 subsequent to the financial period ended 31° March 2021. Thcre is ]ikely to be a reduction in the clwity's income and subsequently a reduction in eXdIture. We anliciFMts this would be a short terni affect and would not afftct the ¢lwity's ability to operat¢ in thc longcr tCrnL Charity law requircs thc trustees to prepare the fmancial statements for cach financial year which show a and fair view of the stste of affairs of tbe charity and its financial activities for that year. In prep&rAng those financial statement4 the triLIt* are required to: Select suitable accounting policies and then apply thcrn consistellty; Make judgem¢nts and cstimatcs that are reasonable and pnenl Stste whether applicable accounting standhrds and statements of recommended practice have been follow¢4 subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and Prepare the fmancial statcmcnts on the going concern basis unless it Is inappropriate to presume that the charity Thill continuc in owatiojI exislence. Th¢ trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with rea8onable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that th¢ financial ststements comply with the Charities ACL They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for tsking reasonable s¢¢ps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees intend io ask the ex11ft8 OUntants to undertth the independent examination of the trust in the followin8 year. Signcd onw ofthe tystees .. Mr Kishor¢ Kal¢r- Tre&er i&, os-.

Luton Cowncil ofFaltb• Statement of Financial Activiti For the Period Ended 311t MArch 2021 Nok5 Ell¢Jwmt Fund$ 2021 Total 2021 Total fund¥ 2020 t)ds 2021 2021 Incomlp.g resources com• 4nd endo¥ffl•nts from: - DanaOnI and kgades 3.165 3.1&fj 3JS9 - Charitablt tiviS s3.1 53h02 08.925 -(hher Income 1.5(J) RtAourtti uptbdtd 410 Raising futtds CoJtB of 8enernling voltAry inome Fundrnising trading eosts Investmtiit mAts4tmtnt ¢0 Chsritsble lvAtIeS 321 GovenwKe ond ¢0 Other ¢xp¢ndEtuY¢ 54.085 54JJ85 éO.l49 Totll xptDdltsrÈ Nei Moverxt•t kn FMnd¥ 'lo(xl fund5 brov4hi forw8rd Tot#l fllxda urrled forwyd The notrs on p4es 10 to 13 fomi P0( thcJkrounts.

LutOD Counell of Faith• Balance Sheet Mr¢h 2021 Notcs Totsj thisye 2021 Totfti th1$ y¢4T 2020 fund5 2021 funds 2021 Fullds 2021 Tthgibl¢AJs¢ts TotAI FiAed Au•ts Current AM4ts Debtors CAsb atbank Jd in hathl 281 Totsl mrr<utAltr 2&634 634 Crrdltors.. amoum hiliThs du¢ withitt (•e 12 (6W) 16(Kl) N•¢ eMrrmtAuets Totsj thnds Approvcd by the Board of Tn]stCC5 and signed OD its behalf by: Dat¢: Isi. tJ£". Date: l & QS-

Luton C4)llAcil of Filths Year Ended 31" M2reh 2021 I. Ace4)untin icies a) The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of ROrnmended Pra]Ce. Accounting and RepK)rting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issucd on 16 July 2014 and with the Charities Act 2011. b) Recosnition of In¢om¢- ther¢ are included iti thc Stal¢men of Financial A¢tiviti¢s (SOFA) when the charity becomes entitled to the resources and monetary value can be measured with suffjcicnt reliability. c) Inveslment income is recorded when receivable d) All expenditure is included in the accounts on an acenl b&sis. Jrr¢coverabl¢ VAT is charged to the SOFA as incurred. c) The Kstricted fuT)ds of the charity are expendable funds which is regularly increased or retsined as capital at the trustees. discretion. All capital rclatcd exnditUre costing rnorc than £750 is capitallscd. D4}latiOn on fths and fittings is charged on a straight line basis over 5 years. 2. Taxation Luton Council of Faiths is a rcgistrrcd charity and accordingly is exempt from taxation on its income and gains where they apply charitable purpos¢3. The restricted donations in the current year and the previous year represent income mainly from Grants but also from donations to the Luton Council of Faiths rGgtri¢ted funds only. 2021 2020 SAlaries and PA YE Pension Total 80 The number of full-time employees during the year was one and there were no average part rime members of staff. 5. Rel rransactions None of the trustecs wcre paid any remunerntion or expenses by the charity during the year (2020 £nil) 10

Ana is of Income from Charitable actNit 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Total 2021 Total 2020 Restricted Community Investment Fund LLAL Grnnt- core costs National tAyttery Communi Fund Other donations Total 53.602 53.602 59,0(Xl 9,925 3.165 in 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Restricted Totsl 2021 Total 2020 Church Urban Fund -Near Nei bours Tothl 1.5(K) 1.500 4,350
An The charity has undcrtakcn dire¢t activiry lo meei its charitable purp)se& The followin8 is the analysis of th¢ Charity's direrA expenditure: 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Restricted 2021 Totsl 2020 Total Fair Ttade Pro Peace Walk Boc4(s Resowce6 Other Events. rammes and items Total ect 443 500 128 139 139 183 322 183 322 416
The resources ex nded include: 2021 2020 600 Inde ndent examiner's fee Total 600
other resourw ex nded 2021 2021 2021 Total 2020 Totsl Unrestricted Restrtcted National Lottery Community Fund- working in Peace and Hamion Charitable giving and donations 467 ii. ernance and Su Supp)rt costs, consisting of the rent al rntcs and staft"salari¢s arc split between charitable activity and governance on an actual or equal estirna b&8is. This is because it is difficult to estimate the expense attributabl¢ ro ¢h activiry. Supw)rt costs apportioned to the different aims of th¢ Gharity are shovrn in the note bclow. Basis of rtionment 2021 2021 2021 2020 Unrestricted Restricted Total Total Office costs Subscri tions Travelling and gencral ex nditure ui ment Salaries Pensions Grass roots Insurance Telephone atKI wcbsitc Aclual Actual Actual 30 427 30 427 2,754 Actual Actual Acthal Actsal Actual 313 74 2,643 10.000 838 1,298 874 719 874 719 790 115 Professional Advertising and ublici Volunteerln Actual Actual 790 115 790 1,391 Actual 427 427 767 Total 12

12.Th include.. 2021 2020 Inde ndent examiner's fee 600 Total ible Fixed Assets There were no movements or any tangible red assets currently h¢ld by the Charity during the year. 2021 2020 Restricted funds Total 14. is of Creditor 2021 2020 Indc ndent examiner's fee 600 600 Total 13

13 Inde endent exIDer'S ort to the TTh$lees of LutOD Council of Faithg I report on the accounts of the Charity for th¢ y¢ar Cndcd 31" March 2021 which are set out on pages 8 to 15. Res ective res onsibilities of tnjstees and CnIne The charity's trustees are responsibl¢ for the prepaTation of the accounts. The clwity's tnteeS consider that an audit in not rquir¢d for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 20118nd thfat an indend¢nt examinatson is needeil It is my r¢sp)nsibility to: Examin¢ thc accounts under tIOn 145 of the Charities Act, To follow the procedures laid down in the General Direclions given by the Clwity Commission (undcr scction 145(5XI)) of th¢ Act and To state whether particular matteys have ¢om¢ to my attention. Basis of the ind ent examiner's My examination was carri¢d out in aCrdallce with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the acLx)unting records kept by the charity and a comparison of thc accounts presented with those records. It also includes conSide10n of any unusual itcms or disclosures in the accounts. and seeking explanations from you as trustees concCrni any such mattern. The procedures undertaken do not provide all evidence that would be required in an audi¢ and consequently no opinion is given as to whether thc accounls present a 'true or fair. view and th¢ Tq)Ort is limited to those matters set out in the slatement below. Ind endenl 's ststement In the course of my ¢xaminalior4 no matter come to my attention: (l) which gives me re&qonabl¢ rAuse to believe that in. any nmterial r¢sp¢¢L the requirements: to keep proper accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the Clwities Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting record5 and comply with the accounting requlrements of the CbaTitics Act have not been met or (2) to whicl in my opinion, atl¢nlion should be drawn in order to eDable a proper understanding of the account to be reached. I hav¢ no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention sllould be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper Ullderding of th¢ accounts to be reached I Hussain and Co Limitcd charter Aountants and Business advisor5 I l Georg¢ Str¢ct W¢st Luton LUI 2BJ

R¢8iStered charity number: 1089850 LLrroN COUNCIL OF FATrFts FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31ST MARCH 2021

Sourcing helpfi infornmtion re SAFE (Security Advice for Everyone) guidance for safety against extremist attacks and for secure livestreaming of religious services and other similar meetings and ¢vents held online by different faith communities. through the expenise of the Community Securiry Trust (CST - a British chariry primarily concerned with the safety and security. of the Jewish communities in the UK) 7 Helping Church of England St Albans Diocese in pparIng a Covid-19 Pastoral Care Scheme, for NHS and for communities, across the county of Bedfordshire in which Luton Council of Faiths remained one of the key conthct p)ints for multi faith nee(L8 in Luton The following resources. prodUd kindly by Luron Council of Faiths. were also widely circulats appreciated, admired and applauded by over 9(Ki peoplc.
A Guide supporting your Mental Health. Resilience and Well-being while working from home https:Ilslatic l.squarespace.comlstatic15?71666ae4b08363c17bd7b41t15eafl ea937ba131 c87f41 eeel 15885349811771LCoF+Supporting-your-mental-h¢alth-LCOF-Final.pJf
My Daily Action Planner https'.l/staticl.5quarespace.comlststi¢15271666a¢4b08363¢171N17b41t15¢afl¢61606a9567bc3daOc31 1588534895774ILCoF+DAIL Y+pLAN+LoCK+Down.pdf
Faith Matters Column published in the Luton Ncws highlighting positive contributions of l.uton's different faith eA)mmunities er LCOF Even ZooTd* Pe8¢e FJV¢Dt (Sep'20) This was quitc inspiring evcnt commemorating International Day of Peace. F.vcry year, LCOF commemorates Intemational Day of Peace at its Annual Peace Walk event in which Luton's Communities of faith or no faith background visit different pla¢e$ of wt)rship and cnjoy hospitality. Due to Covid-19, this y¢ar's p¢a¢e walk eveni w&8 held online. Therefore. it was called 'Zoom Peace, cvent. It celebrated Luton's faith communiti&q' outstAnding work during the Covid-19 pandemic. by showing video clips, news items and pictures of community in aclion. High SherilTof Bedfordshire Susan Lousada sail "Two words I tskc from this ¢v¢ning- 'HOPE' & 'PEACE ope in the face of Lou & DespAlr- Seelng 'Llgbt' throngh the Dark (Nov120) In this cvcnt friends from differeni faiths had made their contributions and $hared briefly prayers, scriptural & other inspirational quotes on the theme. The Holy Quran Vers reminded us nol to despair. After a ditTiculty, Allah WTII soon grant relief. A verse from the Sikh scripture Shri Gurn Granth Sahib assured, "Why are you afrai O human! The Creator will save you." Quaker Book of Faith and Practice said light is already shining into the darkness. and the darkness cannot overcome IL Bahai reflection highlighted transfonnation in human world- in adversities, many are unitin8 to help those in need. The Torah encouraged us not to despair. wfornis the role of cornforter. It reminded that surviving despair is a charactcr-transforniing experience. You realise life is not about you. It is about others. A humanist poem called us to value the love of our friend8 and neighExTrurs and the beautiful creation. Hindus, Sikhs and Jains Diwalt celebrations reminded us that "Hope is being able to see that there is light despitc all of the darkness." Reading of Psalms from The Rible and St Mary's Church's 900 yeays history of witnessing human suffering and its recovery were powerfuI symbols of God'5 restoring FK)wer in the difficult times. Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh quote summed up this event well. "Hope is important because it can make the present moment Ic&s diificult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hard8hip today."

Ana is of Income from Charitable actNit 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Total 2021 Total 2020 Restricted Community Investment Fund LLAL Grnnt- core costs National tAyttery Communi Fund Other donations Total 53.602 53.602 59,0(Xl 9,925 3.165 in 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Restricted Totsl 2021 Total 2020 Church Urban Fund -Near Nei bours Tothl 1.5(K) 1.500 4,350
An The charity has undcrtakcn dire¢t activiry lo meei its charitable purp)se& The followin8 is the analysis of th¢ Charity's direrA expenditure: 2021 Unrestricted 2021 Restricted 2021 Totsl 2020 Total Fair Ttade Pro Peace Walk Boc4(s Resowce6 Other Events. rammes and items Total ect 443 500 128 139 139 183 322 183 322 416
The resources ex nded include: 2021 2020 600 Inde ndent examiner's fee Total 600
other resourw ex nded 2021 2021 2021 Total 2020 Totsl Unrestricted Restrtcted National Lottery Community Fund- working in Peace and Hamion Charitable giving and donations 467 ii. ernance and Su Supp)rt costs, consisting of the rent al rntcs and staft"salari¢s arc split between charitable activity and governance on an actual or equal estirna b&8is. This is because it is difficult to estimate the expense attributabl¢ ro ¢h activiry. Supw)rt costs apportioned to the different aims of th¢ Gharity are shovrn in the note bclow. Basis of rtionment 2021 2021 2021 2020 Unrestricted Restricted Total Total Office costs Subscri tions Travelling and gencral ex nditure ui ment Salaries Pensions Grass roots Insurance Telephone atKI wcbsitc Aclual Actual Actual 30 427 30 427 2,754 Actual Actual Acthal Actsal Actual 313 74 2,643 10.000 838 1,298 874 719 874 719 790 115 Professional Advertising and ublici Volunteerln Actual Actual 790 115 790 1,391 Actual 427 427 767 Total 12