REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 04312967 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1091423 REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 IVIARCH 2025 FOR COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE GB Accounting Solutions Limited Building 115 Bedford Technology Park Thurleigh Bedford Bedfordshire MK44 2YA
COMMiINITY VOLUNTARY SEI RVICE BIDFORDSHIRE CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 Page Report of the Trustees Independent Examiner's Report io StAtement of Financial Activities Balante Sheet 12 to 13 Notes to the Financial Statements 14 to 21 Detailed StAtement of Financial Activities 22 to 23
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THI TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 The tNstees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of Ihe Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The trnstees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practic¢ applicable to rharities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Siandai'd applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective l January 2019). OBJECTIVES AND ACTivrriES Objectives and aims The objectives of the organisation are.. ..to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of the piiblic in Bedfordshire by the provision of assistance and training to chai'ities or for the furtherance of exclusively charitable purposes, in.. the fomiulalion of applications for funding or other assistance, the identifjcation of potenlial funders or paitners, inforn)ation about sour¢¢s of thnding or collaborators and by siich other means as the Irustees shall decide. The key activities for the year are set oiit in the strategic review, focusing on 6 areas of work.. Funding and Financial Sustainability - ensuring the VCSE sector has access to appropriate funding, and is more resilient in the face of changing circumstances. - People- supporting the people- whether they are volunteers, ¢mploye¢s or trustees - a¢ros5 the VCSE se¢tor. Communities - enabling local communities to effect social action, boih individually and collectively. - Partnerships- the VCSE sector working together effectively, and with statutory and private sector partners. - Environment- catalys¢ th¢ VCSE sector in delivering measurable progress to carbon neutralfftty. Impact - ensuring that the VCSE sector is able to demonstrate the difference it makes to local communities and the county, Signifiexnt activities The key activities carried out to achieve these objective included.. funding and development support to local voluntary and community sector organisations, including charities and social enterprises; voliittfrering guidance and signp)sting for local people who are interested in volunteering, matching them with local volunleer-involving organisations. - training courses and worksliops aimed at tmstees, staff and volunteers of voluntary and community sector organisations, providing them with the skills and knowledge required to become more effective and efficient. regular mailings, newsletters, Social media posts and a website providing advice and infrirmation pertinent to the local voliintary and ¢ommunity seotor. ffoi'dable meeting l'ooms, office space and equipment hire for th¢ local voluntary and community sedor. The organisation is indebted to a number of volunleei3 who pmvide administrative and management siipport ihroiigliout the year. The w5t of employing staff to undertake these duties would be in excess of £5,000. Public benefit In canying out the activities, which are explained in more detail on the following pages of this annual report, the organisation provided public benefit by enabling the local voluntary sector lo contribute to people and society through improved.. governance and public trust. meeting high standards of conduct and behaviour - participation in local communilies and theÉr ability to connect with, and establish links between local people expertise they provide in their area and in how to deliver for the public - ability to speak out and provide a voice for the most vulnerable - access to volunteers and funding which in improves the sustainability of the Scl¢eS they pmvide. The trustees have complied with their duty to have due regard to the Charity Commission's public benefit guidance in setting the charity's objectives and planning its aims, objectives and futtire activities and when exercising aiiy powers or duties to which the guidance is relevant. Page I
COMNIUMTY VOLUNTARY SIRVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEEI S FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE Review of the Year This report has been set out using the main tl)emes of the new strategic plan. which was reed by the trustees in the summer of 2023, following a series of meetings and discussions with benefioiaries, stakeholders and staff. Many of the actions are interdependent of each other. Funding and Financial Sustainability Ensuring the VCSE sector has access to appropriate funding, and is more resilient in the face of changing circun)stances. The Funding and Development Service I'esponded to over 360 reqiie5ts for advice and support from local VOlunty. Community and Social Enletprise (VCSE) organisations, on a range of issues including funding sources and strategies, charity and social enterprise registrations, legal structures, safrguarding, and volunteer management. Thank you very much indeed for suggesting that we apply to X for a graiit and that we shoiild increase froni £5,000 the amount we were requesting. They have awarded us £20,000!! This will make such a big differen¢e to us, our fundraising efforts and our need to dispel tlie feeling growing among members of the club that we would never raise enough ndS for the pn)ject. ... we would not have even been applying to X without youi. advice so thank you again very much., 'Thank you for your support and guidance as without your training and supp)rt we not have been so successful. We also would like to thank you for your amazing assistance in helping us to achieve our CIO charity staths. It seemed like a mammoth task when we first started to compile our charity appltcation but with your support and guidance we had only a minor adjustment requested from the Charity Commissioners, jusl wanted to let you know we have been successful in our application to X, and they l)ave awRrded us a 3-year grant of £129,000. l am certain we would not have been successful without your help in finalising our out¢omes and measures that they requested after our second stage interview., Staff orgftnised numerous OpponItieS for organisations lo meet potential funders. The Online Funding Fayre in March 2025 gave organisations ac¢¢ss to 7 local fiinders. 10 'Meet tlie Fundee events were also organised or SLlPPOrted dui'ing the year, giving organisations the opportunity to discuss potential applications. This year staff have also developed specific infomlalion on Full Cost recovery, including templates and example5, which are now available on the CVS website. CVS operates 43 Bromham Road as a shared building, offering office space and meeting spa¢¢ for the local VCSE sector, thanks to the support of The Harpur Tnist. 9 organtsations have office space in the building, and the meeting rooms were used 538 times by 22 different organisalions. The building provides a practical solution to the issiie of office and meeting space. bul is also a facility that &llows diffei'ent VCSE organisations to network, share, develop better working partnerships, creating a Sense of '¢ommunity' between organisations working for the benefit of local commui)ities. Page 2
COII(MUNrrY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRusfEI ES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE People Supporting ihe people - whether they are voliinteers, eniployees or tsiistees - across the VCSE sector. Staff delivered a Volunteering Brokerage and Outreach Service diiring the year. A public list of volunteertng opportunities is maintained, lo provide potential volunteers with a broad range of volunleeiing opportunities (approxiniately 300). Staff attended numerous events across the county, promoting volunteering and raising awareness of volunteering. Almost 700 people formally registered to volunteer, with many more being insptred to contact an oi'ganisation directly. Staff also find some volunteers need more intensive support, often because of their lack of confidence. This support can often last a number of months, with staff working closely with organisations wilh tlie oppoittinities to ensure the volunteer is properly supported. 15 potential volunteers have been supported since April 2024 on a more intensive level. 'X is a young Autistic chap who came in with his mum - wanted to do admin volunteering - he has tried but hasn't had any luck with getting a volunteering position. l asked if he would like to come and volunteer with me at CVS - he is now with us and is proof reading newsletters and Ihe websile plus other office dulles., 'Y was a student with Youlh Inspired, which is a community organi5ation enabling people with learning diificulties, disabilities, autism or mental health conditions to learn, grow and achieve through training and support. He comes in for a couple of hou1¥ each week aiid helps in reception. He undertakes a numbei. of tasks includiiig sorting the recycling, shredding, making posters, showing visitors to meeting rooms and sorting the post along with other administration tasks as they arise. He undertakes tasks both independently and with support from reception staff. The initial 6-week placement has now ¢ontinued into a second year., monthly volunteering n¢wsletter is also produced, keeping potential volunteers in contact with the service, and highlighting other volunteering opportunities. Opportunities are also promoted online, and via olher newsletters where POS5ibl¢. A Voliinteer Co-ordinators Network is now well established, with meetings across the county, providing a forum to discuss volunteering issues, including re¢ruitmellt and ongoing management. Volunteers Week (1-7 June) remains a key promotional opwrtunity, with a number of events and activities held during the week to promote volunteering opportunities and to thank existing volunteers. Staff launched a 'how to video, for potential volunteers to help witli accessing Èlle CVS online volvnteering platfom. Staff also delivered 22 workshops to 157 delegates on SafegU.ding Awareness, Fit for Funding Starting Right and Outcomes and Impact, and Board Development and Leadership. These courses provide an opporthnity for trustees I directors, staff and volunteers to learn new skills, nehvork with each other, and develop an effective working relationship with CVS staff. CVS has also partnered with a local Company lo offer affordable first aid at work courses. Page 3
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 AClllEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE Communities Enabling local communities to effect social action. both individually and colleclively. Ensuring that local communities Rre more aware of the siipport that CVS can offer, shoiild they wish to voliinteer or start a local group, is a priority. Social media is playing a major part in pi'omoting the work of CVS, and the work of the wider sector. Local newspapers and online sites have been used to promote the work of CVS, especially volunteering oppoitunilies. Meeting with orgw)isatioiis face-to-face continues to be a very effective method of promoting our service, and enhancing our reputalion. The weekly Email Update is a major part of our plan to reach as many organisalions and communities as possible. We continue to gi'adually inci'ease the circulation list, with over 1,500 local organisations and contacts now receiving useful information on funding opportunities, local vacancies, networking opportunities, and other relevant news and updates. Work will continue to extend the reach of the newsletter, which receives great feedback fiDm readers. A monthly volunteering newsletter also ensures that new and existing volunteers are aware of our services and the various opportunities available to them. Steps have been undertaken during the year to refresh the dala we hold on local VCSE organisations, in preparation for a significant upgrade to the online directory duiing 2025. One of the most frequeiit requests received by staff is for a list of VCSE organisations. CVS also continued to host the Big Local initiative for the Cauldwell and Kingsbrook area of Bedford, supporting a partnership of local people to invest over £1 million in the local area over a 10-year period. Partnerships The VCSE sector working together effectively, and with statutory and private sector partners. A key of role of CVS is to facilitate partnership working within the sector, and with other sectors. A Comms Network brings together those oi'ganisations with a communications lead to share infomation and co-ordinate publicity about the work of the local VCS sector. A Volllnteer Co-ordinators Network is now meetiiig regiilarly to share good practice on recniiting and managing volunteers. A Food Providers Network in Bedford continues to meet, to impiDve partnership working and reduce duplication across the Foodbanks, community larders, sooial supermarkets and other agencies involved in food provision. Over 17 organisations are now w01ng closer together to improve the impact they have. A directory of partnerships is in place, lo assist organisalions to link up with relevant networks and meetings. CVS has also continued to be involved in the relatively new health and social care stNctures that cover Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes. working to connect local VCSE organisations, with th¢ Integrated Care Board and other parts of a complex health system. Bedfordshire Advice Forum and the Vocypf network (for those working with children, young people and families), continue to be faoilitated by CVS staff. CVS also continues to support Bedford Homeless Partnership and Luton Homeless Partsiership, Staff are involved in a number of other networks and partnerships, including the Luton Fairness Taskforce, Central Bedfordshire's Cost of Living Network, the Bedford Boroiigh Community NeÉwoth, the local ESOL providers network, the Bedford Borough Ukrainian Partnership, and a number of other opportunlties where it is iniportant for the VCSE voice and experience to be heard. Page 4
COMMUNITY VOLuwfARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 Mareh 2025 ACH[EvEllPus AND PERFORMANCE Environment Catalyse the VCSE sector in delivering measurable prO5S to carbon neutral. The past year has been spent understanding how CVS should best respond to the climate change agenda, developing better links with other agencies working in this field, and establishing how to best suppoit the wider VCSE sector. It is cle. that that all VCSE organisations will not be able lo achieve their objectives if they do not also act lo respond to the climate crisis. Details of 'green resources, for the sector have been compiled and promoted on the CVS webslte. Further environmental improvements to 43 BIDmhain Road were undertaken, followÉng an external Energy Efficiency Assessment, and a grant from the VCSE Energy Efficiency fund to improve the heating system. CVS staff have also been developing better links with other organisations offei'ing support relating to climate change, so we better understand what is available, and what gaps might exist, with a view to developing a funding bid for additional capacity. Impatt Ensuring that the VCSE sector is able to demonstrate the difference it makes to local communities and Ihe county. The trustees are determined to demonstrate the impact Éhat the charity has, and support other VCSE organisations to do the same. The development of a new strategic plan, the progress of which is reported on at every board meeting, has provided a greatsr focu5, and has assisted with the conversation on how best to evidence our impact. Staff have improved the evidence collecting methods during ihe year, with an emphasis on capturing feedback from organisalions and volunteers that have been suppoited. This has allowed for better quality reports lo fiinders, improved case sdIeS for promotion via social media, wid greater reassurance to trustees. In Luton, drop in sessions were held al the LETSHUB - three pilot sessions were hosted, and by the third session a range of organisatioT]s were attending, discussing issues with staff. It is hoped that a longer pilot can be delivered in 2025 to give organisations an opportunity to 'drop-in', rather than making an appointment. A 'Stats of the Sectov document was produced in 2024, for the 2nd year ninning, wliich sets out the approximate size of the local VCSE sector in Bedfordshir¢, (almost 3,000 organisations), providing a starting point for any conversation about what the local VCSE sector looks like, and how diverse the sector is. The document will be updated every year. Plans for Future Periods The key activitie5 for the future are set out in the strategic review, focusing on 6 areas of work.. - Fiinding and Financial Sustainability - ensuring the VCSE sector has access to appropriate thnding, and is more resilient in the face of changing circumstances. - People- supporting the people - whether they are volunteers, ¢mployee5 or trustees- across the VCSE sector. Communities - enabling local communities lo effect social action, both individually and collectively. - Partnerships - the VCSE sectoi. working together effectively, and with statutory and private sector partners. - Environment- catalyse the VCSE seotor in delivering measurable progress lo carbon neutrality. Impact - ensuring that the VCSE sector is able to demonstrate the difference it makes to local wmmiinities and the county. Page 5
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE PORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YE21R ENDED 31 MAreh 2025 FINANCIAL REVIEW Financial position The oi'ganisation remains in a healthy financial position. Total incoming resources for the year were £418.194 (2024 £493,046) and total resources expended were £444,749 (2024 - £509.919). The oiganisation made a deficit for the year of £26,555 (2024 - £16,873). The cost of slaffing and Iitilities remain hi due to the cosl of living crisis affecting the country. Whilst income from meeting room and office space usage remained high, other soiirces of funding have not increased in line with Ihe increase in costs, and this remains a concem for the trustees. The cost of repairs lo 43 Bromhatn Road remains a challenge, with funds being released from reserv¢s as required. The organisation has a number of principal sources of funding, as outlined in the accounts. The trustees aTr keen to l)old a portfolio of funders, rather than build dependency on one or two, in order to reduce ihe risk to the organisation's existence should a fiinder withdraw or fail to renew its support. The vast niajority of the funding that the organisation receives is of a short-tenn nature, sometimes for projects lasting less than six months, providing little long-lenn security for the staff team. Bedford Borough Council and Central Bedfordshire Council continued to provide essential siipport to allow the organisalion to offer funding advice, development support and provide some representation for the sector at key meetings. The Harpur TNst's on-going support in providing a full-repairing peppercom lease for 43 Bromham Road is crucial to tlie organisation's financial position, and during the past year the Trust once again agreed to match-fijnd the award from Bedford Borough Council, providing significant additional resources for CVS. Luton Rising {London Luton Airport Ltd) provide funding relating to CVS'S work in Luton (via Bedford51)ire and Luton Community Foundation). CVS acts as the accountable body for a BIG Local partnership in the Kingsbrook and Cauldwell area of Bedford. Funding relating to the BIG Local initiative has been received from the BIG Lottery Fund and subsequently BIG Local Trust and held utider restricted fi]nds. CVS is also the accounlable body for the Bedford Homeless Partnership. Funding raised by the Partnership and Soupfest is given to the Partnership to distribute in small grants. Both fijnds are h'eated as restricted funds. CVS also acts as the accounlable body for the Voluntary Organisations Consortium for Children, Young People and Families (Vocypfj. Funds from the two local authorities are held on behalf of VOC under restricted funds. Funding for Bedfordshire Advice Forum and Luton Homeless Partnership are also held as restricted funds. Page 6
COMNIUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 FINANCIAL REVIEW Reserves policy The CVS reserves policy includes PiDvision for holding a long-temi, full-repairing lease for 43 Bromham Road, and is kept under review on an annual ba51S. At the year end, unrestricted reserves amounted to £288,984 (2024 £312.720). These reserves are desigiiated as detailed below and in note 10 of the accounts. General Purpose Reserves The trustees have set a level equivalent to two montlis of full operating Costs for the organisation as a desired level of reserve. This fund is a contingency in the event of a sudden reduction in income, in oidei. to piDtect ihe futui'e operation of the organisation from the effects of any unforeseen V.latio11 in its incoine aiid expenditure. It also provides a cash flow for grants and conti'acts tl)at al'e paid in arrears. Designated Reserves The trustees have designated reserves wl)ere there are planned committnents that cannot be met by anticipated fijture income alone. These reserves are broken down into a number of funds that mainly relate to,. The organisation's responsibilities as an employer to hold sufficient funds to provide proper notice and redundancy osts in the event of closure The organisalion's responsibilities as a tenant. Whilst CVS pays a peppercorn rent for use of 43 Bromham Road until 2032, CVS also has full-repairing responsibilities ui)til 2032, during which period the building will require major refurbishment and repair. It is the ts'ustees, intention to build a capital improvement fund over the next few y¢ars to meet future repair and rerbIshmCnt conimitmenls The organisation's responsibilities as a head lhndlord, leasing offi¢es to other charities and voluntary organisations al 43 Bromham Road. In the event of closure or near closure, funds are held to keep the building running for twelve months until other atTangemenls can be made and the lease suntndered The r¢5¢rv¢s policy and the levels of reserves required are reviewed yearly as part of the annual budgettry process. STRucfuRE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENr Governing document Community Voluntary Service Bedfordshire was established under Memorandum and Articles of Association on 30th October 2001. The Memoranduin and Articles of Assofjiation were amended on 15th June 2006 and 25th June 2016 due to naine Changes. The organisation is i'egistered as a charity with the Charity Commission (registered chai'ity number 1091423) and as a Company Limited by Giiarantee with Companies Hoiise {registered company number 04312967). Reci'uitment and Appointment of new trustees The trnjstees of the organisation are either connected with local voluntary organisations in a paid, voluntary or tnistee capacity, andlor they provide the organisation with specialist knowledg¢ and skills relating to accounting, legal issues, human resources, local government or similar. The oi'ganisaÉion actively seeks local people with an interest in and connection with the local voluntary and community sector to become a twstee throughout the year. The trustees have the power to co-opt new trustees tlllDughovt the year. Bedford Borough Council and Central Bedfordshire Council are each entitled to nominate a non-voting representative to attend and participate in lrnstees, meetings. Induction and ti'aining of neiv trustees There is no forn)al trustee induclion programme but each new trustee undergoes a half-day induction session to brief them on the structure and operation of the organisation, to provide tliem with and explain key documents and polioies, to meet key staff and to discuss any training requirem¢ntS. Page 7
COMIIIUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDEI D 31 March 2025 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AP4D MANAGEIVIENr Wider nehvorli The organisation works closely with a number of other charilies in Bedfordshire. We continue to woi'k closely with Commiinity Action Milton Keynes, supporting the sector to engage with the Iniegrated Care System (ICS) that covers both our respective areas of benefit. Community Action Milton Keynes hosts a Partnership Officer on behalf of botl) organisations to improve Ilie voluiitary sector's voice within the ICS. Risk management The financial risks to the organisation are wnsidered by th¢ trust¢¢s and the Cliief Officei. on a regular basis through strenuous budgeting and regular management accounts. The trustees have considered the risks faced by the cl)arity aiid have laken steps to mitigate those i'isks. A key compoiienl of this is the reserves policy which was extensively reviewed 1&8t year. and continues to provide a sensible platfonn for all financial planning for the organisation. The Finance and Premises sub-committee, meeting at least quarterly, provides additional oversight and scrutiny to the finances of the organisation, especially regarding the lease of 43 Bromham Road and the associated costs of running a building. With regards to the non-financial risks, a detailed health and safety policy is in place with a nominated lead, and a strong business continuity plan exists should it be necessary. Key staff also undertake relevant training relating to first aid and fire safety as required. REFERENCE AND ADMtNISTRATIVE DETAILS Registered Company number 04312967 (England and Wales) Registered ChArity number 1091423 Registered office 43 Bromham Road Bedford Bedfoi'dshire MK40 2AA Tru5tee5 Mrs P Olney Ms A Nevinson B Shah A Spurrell M Young Mrs H Hendrickx Company SecretAry Ms A Nevinson Independent ExaTniner Gerald Bygraves GB Accounting Solutions Limited Building 115 Bedford Technology Park Thurleigh Bedford Bedfordshire MK44 2YA Approved by order of tlie board of trustees on ...-... and signed on its behalf by: Page 8
COLIqMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 M Young- Tru Page 9
IP4DEPEP4DENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF COMMUNITY VOLUNTIiRY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE Independent examiiler's report to the trustees of Community Voluntary Service Bedfordshire {'the Conipany'} I report to tlie charity Iruslees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year elided 31 March 2025. Responsibilities And basis of i'eport As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the prepaTation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act,). 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 yoiir ¢hai'ity's aecounls as carried out undei. Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,). tn Carrying oiit my examination I have followed tlie Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act. Independent examinei s statement Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 youi. examinei. must be a member of a listed body. I can conf that l am qualified to undertake the examiiTratioi) because l am a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I confirni that no mattera 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 ihe 2006 Act. or the accounts do not accord with those ords. or the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a tme and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination,. or the accounts hav¢ not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounling and reporting by charities (applicable to charities pi'eparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)). I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention Should be dizwn in this rep)rt in order lo enable a proper understanding of the accounts lo be reached. Gerald Bygrdves GB Accounting Solutions Liniited Building 115 Bedford Technology Park Thurleigh Bedford Bedfordshire MK44 2YA Date.. Page 10
COMIIIUMTY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE STATELIIETrrr OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 31.3.25 Total funds 31.3.24 Total nds Unrestiicled funds Restricted fijnds Notes INCOlE AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and other income 3,587 4,021 7,608 31,577 Charitable activities voc Central Bedfordshire Council Big Lo¢al Bedford Charity LLAL Bedford Borough Council 20,000 48J48 89,843 20,000 48J48 89,843 33,750 79,880 45,000 20.000 43,665 148,210 44,750 56,650 45,000 33,750 79,880 45,000 Oth¢r activities tnvestment income 83,579 10,186 83,579 10,186 92,494 10,700 Totol 176,102 242,092 418,194 493,046 EXPENDITURE ON Raising llds 5,285 5,285 5,285 Charitable activities Support costs 194,553 244,911 439,464 504,634 Total 199,838 244,911 444,749 509,919 NET lNCOME/(EENDITURE} (23,736) (2,819) (26,555) (16,873) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Tolal funds brought forward 312,720 55,684 368,404 385,277 TOTAL FUNDS CARIUED FORWARD 288,984 52,865 341,849 368,404 The notes fonn part of these financial statements Pagell
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE BALANCE SHEET 31 MAI'ch 2025 31.3.25 Total funds 31.3.24 Total nds Unrestricted funds Restricted fijnds Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets CURRETr4T ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 9,448 289,013 9,448 341,878 14,142 399,836 52,865 298,461 52,865 351,326 413,978 CREDrroRS Amounts falling du¢ within one year (9,478) (9,478) (45,575) NET CURRENf ASSETS 288,983 52,865 341,848 368,403 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 288,984 52,865 341,849 368,404 NET ASSETS 288,984 52,865 341,849 368,404 FUNDS Unrestricted fitnds Restricted funds io 288,984 52,865 312,720 55,684 TOTAL FUNDS 341,849 368,404 The charilable company is entiiled lo exemption fiDm audit under Section 477 of the Companies Acl 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2025. The members have not required the company lo obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 in accordance with Se¢tion 476 of the Companies Act 2006. The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for (a) ensuring that the charitable conipany keeps accoiinting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and preparing financial slatements which give a true aiid fair view of the slate of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus oi. deficit for eacli financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and whicli otlieiwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company. (b) The notes fomi part of these financial stat¢m¢nts Page 12 continued...
COMTrIUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRK BALANCE SHEET- continued 31 March 2025 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable lo charitable companies subject to the small companies regime. The fIn cia statements were approved by the Board of Twstees 'Zo>'L).... and were Sied on its behalf by.. and authorised for issue on M Young stee The notes fom] parl of these financial statements Page 13
COMMUMTY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMETr4TS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 ACCOUNTIING POLICIES Basis of pi'epai'ing the financial statements The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit eiitity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP IFRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Pi'actice applicable to charities prepating theii. accounts iii accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) {effective l Januaiy 2019),, Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland, and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statemei)ts have been prepared under the l)islorical cost convention. Income All in¢ome is recognised in tlie Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the nds, it is pIDbable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. Expenditure Liabilities are recognised as expenditure &8 soon as there is a legal or constr(Ictive obligation committing the charity lo that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amounl of the obligation can be measiired reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accrnals basis and has been classifIed under headings that aggregate all ¢ost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attiibuted to particulai. headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with Ihe use of sources. Tangible fixed assets Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated iiseful life. Fixtures and fittings 200/0 on cost Taxation The charity is exempt from corpordtion tax on its chAritable activities. Fund accounting Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance wilh the charitable objectives at the discretion of th¢ trustee5. Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted puoseS within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when ndS are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements. OTHER AcrivrriES 31.3.25 TotAI fuiids 31.3.24 Total funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Office and meeting room hire 83579 83579 92,494 Page 14 continued...
co1[UN VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTES TO THE FINANCLIL STATEMENfs- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 Mareh 2025 INVESTMENT INCOME 31.3.25 TotAI funds 31.3.24 Total funds Unrestiicted funds Restricted fi]nds Deposit account interest 10,186 10,186 10,700 TRUSTEES, RE[uNERATIoN AND BENEFITS There were no trustees, remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024. Trustees, expenses There were no trustees, expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2025 nor for the year ended 31 March 2024. srAFF COSTS The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows: 31.3.25 31.3.24 Admtnistration Support No employe¢5 re¢eived emoluments in excess of £60,000. COIVIPARATtVES FOR THE sTATE1T OF FINANCIAL AcfIviTIES Unrestricted fijnds Restricted funds Total funds INCOME AND ENDOWMENfs FROM Donations and other income 23,266 8,311 31,577 ChAritAble activities voc Central Bedfordshire Council Big Local Bedford Charity LLAL Bedford Borough Council 20,000 43,665 148,210 20,000 43,665 148,210 44,750 56,650 45,000 44,750 56,650 45,000 Other a¢tivities Investment income 92,494 10,700 92,494 10.700 Totol 216,210 276,836 493,046 EXPENDITURE ON Raising funds 5,285 5,285 Page 15 continued...
COMlItUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHll4 NOTES TO THE FINANCLiL STATEMENTS- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTtVlTIES- continued Uiirestsicted Restricted funds funds Total funds Charitable activities Support costs 229,632 275,002 504,634 Total 234,917 275.002 509,919 NET INCOMEI(EXPEI NDrruRE) (18,707) 1,834 (16,873) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought fonvard 331,427 53,850 385,277 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 312,720 55,684 368,404 TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Fixtures fittings COST At l April 2024 and 31 March 2025 7,485 DEPRECIATION At l April 2024 and 31 March 2025 7,484 NET BOOK VALUE Ai 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024 DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 31.3.24 Trade debtors Prepayments 8,482 966 13,176 966 9,448 14,142 Page 16 continued...
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATE11NTS- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.25 31.3.24 Trade creditors Accrued expenses 6,538 2,940 42,735 2,840 9,478 45,575 io. MOVEMENT tN FUNDS Net movement in funds Trdnsf¢rs between funds At 3113125 At 114124 Unrestricted funds Geiieral fund Designated Funds Big Change Luton Coffee Pot 69,690 220,172 22,151 707 {20,658) 4,221 (4,221) 53253 215,951 19,073 707 (3,078) 312,720 (23,736) 288,984 RestrACted funds Big Local voc Bedfordshtre Advice Forum Central Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedford Homeless BBO Storage 34?32 19,254 1,819 li (8,628) 6,497 2,399 (9,992) {2,359) (906) 24,340 16,895 913 li 1,754 6,763 2,189 IOJ82 266 (210) 55,684 (2,819) 52,865 TOTAL FUNDS 368,404 (26,555) 341,849 Page 17 conlinued...
COMMUNITY VOLUNTIIRY SERVtCE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIIiL STATEMENTS- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 io. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- continued Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows.. Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in fiinds Unrestrieted funds General fund Big Change Luton 175,017 1,085 (195,675) (4,163) (20,658) (3,078) 176,102 (199,838) (23,736) Restricted fund5 Big Local voc Bedfordshire Advi¢¢ Foruin Central Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedford Homeless BBO Storage 89,843 20,000 902 48J48 79,880 3,119 (99,835) (22,359) (1,808) (48,348) (69,498) (2,853) {210) (9,992) (2,359) (906) 10?82 266 {210) 242,092 (244,911) (2,819) TOTAL FUNDS 418,194 (444,749) {26,555} Comparatives for movement in funds Net movement in funds Transfers between funds At 3113124 At 114123 Unrestricted funds General nd Designated Funds Big Change Luton Coffee Pot 80,307 245,172 5,241 707 (35,617) 25,000 {25,000) 69,690 220,172 22,151 707 16,910 331,427 (18,707) 312,720 Restricted funds Big Local voc Bedfordshire Advice Forum Cenlr&l Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedford Homeless BBO Storage 5,340 23,338 1,597 7,684 28,992 {4,084) 222 (7,673) (8,628) (6,787) (208) 34,332 19,254 1,819 li (8,628} 6,497 2,399 13,284 2,607 53,850 1,834 55,684 TOTAL FUNDS 385,277 (16,873) 368,404 Page 18 continued...
Co1lTy VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTEI S TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMETr4TS- continued FOR THE YEAR Ef4DED 31 March 2025 io. MOVENIENT IN FUNDS- continued Comparative net movement in fitnds, included in the abov¢ are as follows.. Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in fiinds Unrestricted funds General fund Big Change Luton 193,540 22,670 (229,157) (5.760) (35,617) 16,910 216.210 (234,917) (18,707) Restricted funds Big Local voc Bedfordshire Advice Forum Central Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedford Homeless BBO Storage 148,210 20,000 1,256 43,665 56,650 7,055 (119,218) (24,084) (1,034) (51,338) (65,278) (l3,842) {208) 28,992 (4,084) 222 (7,673) (8,628} (6,787) (208) 276,836 (275,002) 1,834 TOTAL FUNDS 493,046 {509,919) (16,873) A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows.. Net movement in fund5 Transfet between funds At 3113125 At 114r23 Unrestricted funds General fund Designated Funds Big Change Luton Coffee Pot 80,307 245,172 5,241 707 {56,275) 29,221 (29,221) 53,253 215,951 19,073 707 13,832 331,427 (42,443) 288,984 Restiicted funds Big Local voc Bedfordshire Advice Forum Central Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedford Homeless BBO Storage 5,340 23,338 1,597 7,684 19,000 (6,443) (684) (7,673) 1,754 (6,521) (418) 24,340 16,895 913 li 1,754 6,763 2.189 13,284 2,607 53,850 (985) 52,865 TOTAL Fuf4DS 385,277 (43,428) 341,849 Page E9 continued...
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEIIIEP4TS- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 io. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- continued A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined ii¢t movement in funds, included in th¢ above are as follows: Incomiiig resources Resources expended Movem¢nt in fvnds UnrestrACted funds General fund Big Change Luton 368,557 23,755 (424.832) (9,923) (56,275 } 13,832 392,312 (434.755) (42,443) Restricted funds Big Local voc Bedfordshire Advice Forum Central Bedfordshire Council LLAL Bedfoi'd Homeless BBO Storage 238,053 40,000 2,158 92,013 136,530 10,174 (219,053) (46,443) (2,842) (99,686) {134,776) (16,695) (418) 19,000 {6,443) (684) (7.673) 1,754 (6,521) (418) 518,928 {519,913} (985) TOTAL FUNDS 911,240 (954,668) (43,428) Transfer betiveen funds Opening Balance Additional Resources Released Resources Closing Balance 47,000 95,000 10,000 Designated Funds Salaries Reserve Redundancy Reserve Premises Reserve- General Premises Reserve - Capital Improvements Asset Replacement 47,000 95,000 10,000 58,172 10,000 4,221 53,591 10.000 TotAI 220,172 4221 215,951 General Purpose Fund: Funds to provide cash flow and meet unforeseen expenses. Based on approximately three months of Annual turnover. Designated Funds.. Salaries Reserve Redundancy Reserve Two month5 salaries and eniployers Nl contributions Redundancy liabilities and i'equired notice period bAsed on stAtutory minimum payments for all staff 12 months running costs for 43 Bromhatn Road in the event of closure to provide security for existtng users and fulfil lease obligatioiis Funds to maintain, repair and improve 43 BromhAm Road as a result of holding a full-repaii'ing lease Provision to replace IT and furniture as required Premises Reserve- General Premises Reserve- Capital Asset Replacement Page 20 continued...
COMLIIUMTY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 ii. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES There were no related paty transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025. Page 21
COIIffjVIUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025 31.3.25 31.3.24 INCOME AND Ef4DOWMEf+rrs Donations and other income Siibscriptions Other income 902 6,706 1,256 30,321 7,608 31,577 Other activities Office and meeting room hire 83,579 92,494 Investment income Deposit account interest 10,186 10,700 Charitable activities Grants 316,821 358,275 Total incoming resources 418,194 493,046 EXPEf4DITURE Raising donations and legacies Wages 5,285 5,285 Charitgble activities Wages Rent, rates and services Insurance Office costs Advertising and piDmotions Sundries Specific projects Travel Training and events Legal and professional fees Reference materials and subscriptions Repairs and renewals Computer costs 309,663 15,821 2,262 23J46 309,525 20,725 1,423 24,141 1,669 54 92,296 3,475 1,252 4,555 340 38.284 4,484 384 67J56 4,578 90 1,363 356 11,837 437,056 502,223 Support Costs Finance Bank charges 68 71 This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements Page 22
COMMUNITY VOLUNTARY SERVICE BEDFORDSHIRE DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL AcfIviTIES FOR THE YEAR Ef4DED 31 MArch 2025 31.3.25 31.3.24 Finance Governance costs Accountancy and legal fees 2,340 2,340 Total resources expended 444,749 509,919 Net expenditure (26,555) (16,873) This page does not fonn part of the statutory financial statements Page 23