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 Sc￿l¢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 VOlunt￿y.
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 Oppo￿nItieS 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 w0￿1ng 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[EvEll￿Pus AND PERFORMANCE
Environment
Catalyse the VCSE sector in delivering measurable prO￿5S 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 s￿dIeS 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 re￿rbIshmCnt 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
INCOl￿E 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/(E￿ENDITURE}
(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 Si￿ed 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 pu￿oseS 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 sTATE1￿￿T 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 STATE1￿￿1NTS- 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...

Co1￿lTy 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