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← The Community Council Of Shropshire

2024-03-31-accounts

OUR VALUES WELCOMING We listen to people's needs and do what we can to remove barriers. Imwoving accessibility and inclusion. We seek different viryoints, eng69ing with those we support so thetr need5 are at the centre of our work. We collakx)rate partners to diversify what we do to better support communities. value everyone We oFFer tailored advice, understanding specific needs a￿1￿9 a¢¢ordingty. We follow up and keep in tth, ￿￿111d¥n9 relationships SO OUT 5eNices tan have long-terTn itnpèct. We with our neTh¥orks to connect Peop￿ and Cornfflunittes to drfF¢rent 5eN¢es. ensuring the best support 15 PrO¥￿ed. HELPFUL Wego the extra mile ADAPTABLE We are resFX)nsive and agile. meetin9 needs in the community a5 they arise. We are open to different ideas, allowin9 US to continuously develop and improve. We encourage constructive feedback and leam from experience. We evolve through change KNOWLEDGEABLE We build on our expertise we can better ¢¢ffimunltioL . We from oyr ur5d￿re4 and . We Klentrfy tha4ry5and kok aBatr49 ¥¥1 Innovat• ￿UtiOn•t0 Ih•m. TRUSTED We are clear abtsut V4h4t we do. and 519￿PoSI or ask foi help when need to. . We work ha¥d to meet (#rc¢￿m1tsm￿ts4r¥I alm to Wearea safe pair We and mainlain relatsonshps with our partntrrs

o IA WELCOMING Volunteer Thank-you Event 2023

Contents

About us Chair’s Welcome Hello from the CEO

Key Achievements of 2023/24:

Wellbeing & Care Services Community & Support Funding and Advice

Meeting our Strategic Objectives Demonstrating a Difference Collaborating for Change Investing for Impact

Financial Statements

Financial Review Our Governance

Independent Examiner’s Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Notes to the Cash Flow Statement Notes to the Financial Statements

About Us a We are Community Resource, established in 1960, with a demonstrated history of supporting communities. As a Charity we are committed to making life better for poeple and communities facing challenges in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

OUR VISION

Strong, local communities where everyone gets the support they need.

OUR MISSION

Enabling people to enjoy a good quality of life and empowering people to help their communities thrive.

OUR STRATEGIC AIMS

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Collaborate Invest
for change for impact
bejo
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Demonstrate Collaborate Invest a difference for change for impact

VALUES LED, NEEDS DRIVEN

Welcome

from our Chair of the Board of Trustees, Hugh

As I conclude my nine years as a trustee and Chair of Community Resource, I reflect on our journey with immense pride. In that time, we have helped hundreds of organisations and thousands of people, navigating the unique challenges of a rural county with low population density, reduced public services, and an aging population. These challenges are not unique to Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and the need for Community Resource to continue fighting, advocating, and supporting will persist. But I am confident that Community Resource will continue to adapt, develop, and rise to these new challenges.

However, I cannot take credit for what we’ve achieved—it is truly the work of those who support us in delivering for our county: above all, the staff, volunteers, and trustees who work so hard to make our vision a reality. Without you, none of this would be possible.

It has been a real privilege to serve as your Chair. I thank you all and look forward to seeing how Community Resource thrives under new leadership.

Hugh Strickland Chair, Board of Trustees

Hello

from our Chief Executive, Bev

As I look back on the past year, I am encouraged by the strides we’ve taken to support and uplift those we serve.

Despite rising operational costs and increasing demand, these strides have enabled us to continue delivering essential services across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

Our focus on supporting the most vulnerable, particularly in rural areas, has never been more important. This year, our dedicated volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to ensure people stay connected, healthy, and empowered. From Wellbeing & Care initiatives to innovative projects like the Community Connectors and Oil Buying Club, we strengthened our partnerships and enhanced our capacity to serve.

We are also immensely proud of our commitment to inclusivity. By signing the Safe Age No Discrimination (SAND) Covenant, we continue to lead efforts to ensure that all members of our community, including older LGBT+ individuals, receive the support they deserve.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to evolving our services to meet emerging needs, investing in resources, and collaborating with partners to maximise our impact. Together, we are building a future where everyone in our community can thrive. I extend my deepest gratitude to our volunteers, partners, and supporters. Your dedication is the backbone of our success, and together, we will continue making a (% = lasting difference.

Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Bev Baxter Chief Executive

Wellbeing &Care

We empower people to stay active, connected, and maintain their health and independence, enabling them to live life to the fullest. Through a range of community-based projects, supported by a dedicated team of local volunteers, we foster social inclusion and well-being, ensuring individuals feel supported and engaged in their communities.

Our Wellbeing & Care services in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin offer support to help individuals maintain independence and stay connected. These services include help for those with hearing loss, sight loss, falls prevention initiatives, and health awareness events. Part of our offering is the social prescribing service, linking individuals to local resources to improve health and wellbeing as well as connecting local organisations providing services. Additionally, we provide social groups for isolated individuals, social groups for people with additional needs and support for those with dementia and their carers.

We offer support for individuals with hearing or sight loss through specialised services.

The Hearing Loss Support Service provides guidance on managing hearing difficulties and practical help with hearing aid maintenance.

The Sight Loss Support Service helps visually impaired individuals adjust to sight loss and stay connected to their communities.

Additionally, we run social groups for adults with additional needs, creating a safe environment for socialising, building friendships, and reducing isolation.

Care and Share groups are designed for people with dementia and their caregivers. These support groups offer a welcoming environment for individuals to share experiences, participate in activities, and receive peer support.

Designed to provide both emotional and practical assistance, helping caregivers and those with dementia feel connected and less isolated. Activities within these groups are tailored to create an inclusive and supportive experience for everyone involved.

We support people to stay active and connected to their communities

Highlights

Volunteers hours distribution

Volunteers hours distribution

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30 a Volunteers a Staff Care & Share (3 groups)5% Buddy System0.3%
25 We are so grateful for all the DoLS
support our wonderful 31.4%
20 volunteers from across
15 Shropshire, Telford and
10 Wrekin give. They are the
backbone of our services.
5
Hearing Loss Support (13 hubs) Sight Loss Support (4 groups)
0 58.7% 4.7%
Health & Wellbeing Events delivered (43 events in 2023/24)
Buddy SystemSight Loss Support (4 groups)DoLSHearing Loss Support (13 hubs)Musketeers & MaidensCare & Share (3 groups)
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Wellbeing & Care events
Sessions/Groups/Visits delivered 16.3%
M&M group sessions
50
Menopause Awareness
2.3%
DoLS Visits
602
Boccia Demo
11.6%
HLS home visits
648
Falls Awareness
67.4%
HLS hub sessions
122
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Throughout this year, our services have consistently supported communities by engaging in a diverse range of projects. These initiatives, detailed by key statistics above, aim to empower communities towards leading active, healthy, and independent lives.

We enable people to maintain their health and independence

Community &Support

At Community Resource, we offer a variety of support services to strengthen rural communities. Our Oil Buying Club helps members reduce heating costs, while our infrastructure support provides tailored advice to local voluntary organisations. Additionally, we assist with governance, legal structures, and volunteer management. Our "Community Connectors" program fosters collaboration across sectors, promoting stronger community networks.

We have secured funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to continue vital community work. The Voluntary and Community Support Team focuses on providing governance guidance, funding support, accredited training for volunteers and organisations, and volunteer brokerage services. These efforts help connect volunteers with local community groups, ensuring continued access to essential services.

The Oil Buying Club is dedicated to providing affordable heating fuel to rural households in off-grid areas, leading to significant savings.

Operated by volunteer community coordinators, the club collects orders from local residents, and Community Resource negotiates competitive prices on their behalf.

With 24 volunteer coordinators contributing 393 hours, the initiative helps communities access lower-cost fuel. Members of the club benefit from being able to place unlimited orders, while recent savings demonstrate the club’s effectiveness in reducing heating expenses.

The "Community Connectors" programme helps strengthen local communities by facilitating networking across different sectors. It enables collaboration among individuals, organisations, and services, fostering better communication and partnerships within rural communities.

The initiative enhances access to support, advice, and resources, helping to address local needs and build more resilient communities. Through this program, Community Resource connects stakeholders and provides opportunities for learning and sharing best practices.

We work with partners to meet the needs in their local areas

Highlights

Amount of oil ordered for Oil Buying Club members: 701,250 litres

Amount the Oil Buying Club has saved its members: £20,382.78

Number of Number of Number of Community Connector meetings delivered: 18 Community attendances Number of Community Connector meetings delivered: 18 Connector at Community meetings Connector meetings: os delivered: ¢ 307 18 ae @&

This year our services have been tailored to support communities and we have utilised our networks to ensure communities have benefited.

We strengthen communities so that everyone gets the support they need

Funding &Advice

At Community Resource we provide a range of funding and advice services to support local organisations and households.

These include managing several grant schemes for community groups, offering free energy-saving advice, and providing guidance for village halls and community buildings through a membership programme.

We administer a variety of grant schemes aimed at supporting community groups, village halls, and rural organisations. These grants help fund projects that enhance community facilities, improve access to services, and support local initiatives. Funding covers a wide range of needs, from energy efficiency improvements to vital repairs and community development. By offering financial assistance, we ensure that rural communities can continue to thrive and provide essential services to their residents.

We provide tailored support for village halls and community buildings, supplemented by our membership in the ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England) network. Our guidance covers key areas such as legal compliance, health and safety, governance, and energy efficiency.

Through ACRE, we access best practices, resources, and advocacy to help these essential community spaces thrive. Additionally, we offer funding advice and support with grant applications to maintain and enhance these vital facilities for rural communities.

Our Energy Advice Service provides free, practical guidance to help households lower energy costs and improve efficiency. We assist with switching suppliers, using appliances more effectively, and accessing grants for energy-saving improvements.

Additionally, through the delivery of grants from the Household Support Fund, we offer financial aid to help vulnerable households manage essential expenses like heating, energy bills, and food. This targeted support ensures that residents in rural communities receive the assistance they need during difficult times.

We connect people who care with causes that need their help

Highlights

Number of households supported through Household Support Fund grant distribution: 290

Funds distributed through Household Support Fund grant distribution: £102,000

Value of grants Number of awarded to organisations supported organisations: through the distribution £28,512 @( Nu ~~ib~~ m ~~=®~~ ber of Community Connector meetings delivered: 18 ) of grants: £ Number of Community Connector meetings delivered: 18 53 @—®O Village Hall and

Value of grants awarded to organisations: £28,512

Village Hall and Energy 4.4% community buildings enquiry types throughout 2023/24.

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21.3%Other throughout
2023/24.
Refurbishment
1.5%
Governance & Compliance
59.6%
Funding
13.2%
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Our village halls and community buildings advisor supported 113 halls with a total of 132 queries this year. Many of which require ongoing support.

This year we have used our expertise to support households to get through tough times and support organisations continue to deliver their invaluable services.

We share expertise and advice to help address rural issues

COLLABORATE FOR

INVEST FOR IMPACT We have shown over recent years that we can grow and evolve in new ways. Our experiences have taught us that the way forward is exploring the seemingly impossible, seeking innovative approaches to our work, and investing in our workforce.

DIFFERENCE

CHANGE

Those who engage with our services face a multitude of challenges, which are often exacerbated due to living in rural communities and the additional difficulties that can bring.

We will engage more with those we support, the people and organisations that help us and the people we can influence.

We will build on existing partnerships and develop new ones, allowing greater reach to provide support to those who need it. We will make sure our knowledge and expertise continue to grow and develop and will share what we know and learn.

We will work hard to support people to address and minimise the impact of the challenges they face. We will do this through listening, continuously reviewing and developing our service provision to ensure we know and understand the communities we serve.

We also know that we need to future-proof our charity, investing in systems and best practice processes to ensure we are well placed to maximise use of our resources to exceed the expectations of the communities we serve.

Together we will achieve more.

Continuously listening to meet individual and community needs more.

Building resource to reach more.

Funding and Grant Support delivered by our Voluntary and Community Support Team

Crowsmill Craft Centre CiC is a unique alternative provision and day centre located in the scenic Severn Valley area.

They support individuals facing various challenges by emphasising personal growth, social skills, and vocational training in a therapeutic environment.

In February 2022, we were approached to support Crowsmill, a former delivery partner in the Building Better Opportunities programme, as they sought future funding and assistance from our Voluntary and Community Support Team. After a scoping meeting, we helped with volunteer recruitment, governance, training, and grant applications. This led to Crowsmill securing a Shropshire Community Grant to help sustain the project.

By March 2023, they also received funding from the Severn Trent Community Fund to hire an Administrator, and we facilitated £2.5k in donations from the Bridgnorth Lions to further support their initiatives

In May 2023, we collaborated with Crowsmill on a five-year funding application to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund. By November, we were thrilled to learn that the application had passed the initial panel review. Finally, in February 2024, we received the exciting news that the application was approved, securing over £241,000 in funding. This significant grant will be instrumental in ensuring Crowsmill's long-term sustainability and growth, marking a major milestone in their development.

Demonstrate a Difference

Signing up to the Safe Age No Discrimination (SAND) Covenant

SAND is a community organisation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and elevating the standards for older and old LGBT+ individuals in Shropshire, Telford, and Wrekin.

An essential aspect of achieving this mission is fostering a culture of inclusion through initiatives like embracing and endorsing The Covenant.

In July 2023, we proudly became SAND covenantees, marking the start of our commitment to inclusivity, with the Community Resource team undergoing LGBT+ Awareness training focused on the needs of older LGBT+ individuals. We are now actively refining the language used in our policies and service offerings to reflect inclusivity, with ongoing updates in progress. Partnering with SAND, we are also developing accessible materials for diverse groups, set to launch soon.

To ensure continuous learning, two team members, Alli and Nat, completed Facilitator Training, enabling us to provide ongoing LGBT+ awareness training as our team grows, whether through paid staff or volunteers. In addition to internal development, we are now deeply involved in the covenantee network, supporting both existing and new covenantees and working towards sustaining the work across the sector.

Collaborate for change

We are excited to contribute further by facilitating forum meetings to support the ongoing progress of this important work. These meetings will foster collaboration and ensure continued growth and learning within the network, reinforcing our shared commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBT+ community, especially those who are older and more vulnerable.

Developing partnerships to help us grow

At Community Resource, our mission is dedicated to bolstering the wellbeing of communities and individuals in Shropshire alongside facilitating a high quality of life for individuals and empower community members to actively contribute to their local areas.

Our recently introduced Corporate Partnership Initiative is designed to foster positive partnerships with local enterprises that are instrumental in fortifying our organisational vision, expanding our outreach, and enriching the efficacy of our support initiatives.

Partnering offers:

Partnerships enable:

Success Stories

HSBC in Telford: Collecting postage stamps with HSBC has allowed us to fundraise innovatively, showing how small efforts can have a big impact on our work.

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce: Our collaboration has opened doors to new networking opportunities, helping us connect with potential partners and supporters, as well as enhancing brand awareness.

These partnerships help Community Resource become better known and understood within the community, highlighting our vital role and positive impact.

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Invest
for Impact
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Financial Review

The past year presented significant financial challenges for the charity due to persistently high inflation and rising interest rates. Increased costs placed considerable pressure on operational budgets, while higher interest rates further squeezed household finances, impacting individual donations.

Despite these challenges, the charity reported a net income of £47,321, largely driven by a substantial recovery in investment income, which totaled £169,606. This represents a marked improvement from the previous year’s investment loss of £49,822.

Expenditure on charitable activities totaled £848,620, down from £882,235 in the previous year. While spending was reduced in some areas, the charity continued to prioritize crucial services. Notable funding was directed towards Well-being and Care (£340,716) and Community Support (£245,877), which had a direct positive impact on the community.

Operational cash flow for the year showed an outflow of £147,106, in contrast to the near breakeven position of the previous year (-£5,349). However, the charity's overall financial health remained strong, supported by robust cash balances and working capital.

Endowment funds, which provide grants to individuals and community groups in need, grew significantly from £960,924 to £1,067,618, primarily due to investment gains of £110,825.

We are deeply grateful for the generous support from trusts, local charitable associations, and individuals, including those who contributed to our Warmer Winter Appeal.

Despite facing increased operating costs and reduced income, the charity continues to maintain robust reserves and effectively deliver its charitable objectives. Ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of our work remains our top priority. We continue to invest in our fundraising efforts to increase and diversify our income. We have established new strategic partnerships with both local and statutory organisations enabling us to strengthen our services and better meet the needs of our current and future beneficiaries.

a. Going Concern

After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

b. Reserves Policy

To protect the charity from serious disruption to its charitable work it is the policy of the Board to build up free reserves as part of its strategic planning. An assessment of the stability and certainty of future income sources forms an important part of the Board's assessment of risk and feeds in to both the budget and reserves policy.

Financial Review

To ensure the charity can meet its contractual liabilities in the event the organisation has to close the Board has set up a designated 'continuity fund' which covers specific liabilities that would need to be met if extreme events, most likely an unsustainable reduction in funding, were to force the charity to close down. This includes 12 months mortgage payment on the bank loan secured on the charity’s property the net value of any outstanding lease agreements and staff redundancy costs.

As a large part of our income is insecure, or vulnerable to factors outside of our control the Board aims to hold sufficient reserves to:

Following a review of the above criteria in the context of an evaluation of the Charity's current short and long term financial risks, the Board have agreed it should aim to hold 'free reserves' of £300,000.

At 31st March 2024 the charity's free reserves were £341,936 (2022-23: £357,847). The Board have agreed not to commit the funds to charitable programmes at this time, but to assess the most beneficial and sustainable use of these funds on completion of the planned charitable needs analysis and strategic review due to be completed in 2024-25.

c. Material Investments Policy

The charity’s investment policy is based on the Charities and investment matters: a guide for trustees (CC14), produced by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

d. Investment Objectives

All investments are made to further the charity’s aims. The charity has three main investment objectives:

(i) To invest the unrestricted surplus funds of the charity, not needed in the short or medium term, in a managed investment portfolio designed for longer-term capital growth. The aim is to achieve the best financial capital growth, within an acceptable level of risk, to spend on the charity’s longer term organisational aims.

(ii) To invest sufficient funds required for use in the short or medium term in easily accessible cashbased deposit funds.

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Financial Review

(iii) To invest the grant making endowment funds of the charity, in managed investment portfolios. These are designed to produce an investment yield to distribute as grants to community and voluntary groups and/or individuals, in accordance with the criteria of the individual named fund, and to provide long-term capital growth. The aim is to achieve a balance between capital growth and income returns, to meet both the current and future needs of the charity’s beneficiaries.

e. Investment Time Frame

The charity’s investments can be both short and long-term.

Endowment funds and unrestricted surplus funds of the charity not needed in the short or medium term are held in longer-term investments.

Restricted funds and unrestricted funds needed in the short-term are held in interest bearing shortterm deposits or held on in account with instant access.

To be able to react to unplanned events all unrestricted funds held in investments are capable of withdrawal with no more than 12 months’ notice, unless otherwise agreed by the Board. The Board understand that this may negatively impact upon potential returns or incur penalties upon encashment.

f. Investment Risk

In setting the investment objectives the trustees have considered the level of risk that is appropriate for the charity and the management of those risks.

Due to the potential risk to capital and the liquidity need restricted funds and those funds needed for short or medium needs are not held in long-term investment funds. A drop in capital value for funds invested in the longer term is less critical because such investments can be held until their value has recovered.

Capital risk in long-term investments is mitigated by having managed diversified investment portfolios.

Market risk is managed by being aware of changes in inflation and interest rates and substantially investing in markets where financial services are closely regulated, and compensation schemes are in place.

Counterparty risk is managed by:

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Financial Review

Cash deposit risks are managed by:

Short-term investments

Short-term investments include deposit accounts held with FCA registered financial institutions with a maximum of 12 months’ notice. The charity uses the Bank of England base rate as a benchmark to measure the performance of its short-term cash investments.

In 2023-24 the charity received £6,635 (2022-23: £3,386) in earned interest from these deposits giving an overall interest return of 2.5% compared to the Bank of England averaged Base Rate over the year of 5%.

Long-term investments

Independent investment managers manage the long-term investments of the charity – James Hambro and Partners appointed following a competitive tender and CCLA Investment Management Limited.

The charity uses the ARC benchmarks which take data from discretionary fund managers and provide an average performance return for difference objectives and risk categories to monitor the performance of its long-term investments.

An expectation of a peak in interest rates and falling inflation led to increased financial market confidence and at the end of the financial year the investments made unrealised gains of £169,606, (2023-23 unrealised investment losses of (-£49,822). The total return for the financial year was £191,025 11.6% (2022-23 (-£29,374) - 1.73%.

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Funding &Advice

Sally* visited one of Community Resource's Energy Saving Advice drop-in sessions, led by our Energy Saving Champion, Nickie, at the Church Stretton Foodbank while collecting her weekly food parcel to support her household of seven. She mentioned that she was scheduled to have a hip operation the following week and

would be house-bound for at least six weeks during her recovery. To help her stay warm while she recovered she was given one of our "Warm Packs", kindly supported by the National Grid. These packs included a hot water bottle, gloves and a blanket.

Thank you so much for the help and eeoeebro:ee a >. ‘ advice and for the Warm Pack. We can Feal A o : az1 now heat our home! We are so inah or Li 7 E i rf 7 ql " ‘i I 1 wal 7 grateful!

During the advice session, Sally received a range of practical suggestions on reducing her energy bills. However, living in an older, rural home off the gas grid and facing financial difficulties, she was struggling to afford the minimum 500-litre order of heating oil.

She was directed to the Household Support Fund and successfully secured a grant to purchase the oil. The grant also included a year's free membership to the Oil Buying Club. Additionally, she was referred to a local charity for further support, which helped her acquire a new energyefficient cooker, and she was enrolled in the Priority Service Register.

Our services, are particularly valuable throughout the colder months to help relieve winter pressures. Whether that is distributing grants to support people to keep warm, getting reduced price oil for those in rural communities through our oil buying scheme or providing one to one energy advice sessions - these services have an invaluable impact across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.

Structure, Governance, and Management

a. Constitution

Community Resource is a charitable company limited by guarantee. It was set up by a Memorandum of Association, which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. The Board of Directors consists of the Trustees all of whom are individual members of Community Resource.

Community Resource is an independent charity but affiliated to the national charity Action for Communities in Rural England (ACRE). ACRE acts as the managing agent for the money received from Defra.

b. Method of appointment or election of trustees

Trustees are recruited through a variety of methods including advertisement, personal contacts, and networks. The appointment process includes completion of a formal application form, a meeting with the Chief Executive, and an interview with a small panel of existing Trustees. If suitable, Trustees are invited to appoint the prospective Trustee for the period until the AGM, when they stand for election.

All Trustees are elected by the wider membership at the Annual General Meeting for a period of three years and retire in rotation, one third each year as specified in the Memorandum and Articles of Association. One of the Trustees is appointed by them as Chair for a period of three years.

c. Policies adopted for the induction and training of trustees

All members of the Board give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the Charity. Any incidental expenses to enable Trustees to attend meetings are reimbursed if requested.

Trustees receive induction which includes time with each of the teams and the senior managers. As part of their induction, new Trustees are given a copy of the Trustees Handbook which is regularly updated.

It contains information about the role and responsibilities of Trustees as well as copies of organisational policies and procedures, a copy of the Annual Review and the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Trustees have access to training locally and nationally. Any expenses incurred to attend training are reimbursed by the charity.

d. Organisational structure and decision making

In 2023/24, there have seven board meetings across the year, with an end of quarter focus within four of these, two will be focussed on Governance and Risk and a final one where the focus will be a presentation of the achievements of Voluntary and Community Infrastructure Support team. The AGM was held in October. This year it was an in-person event with a focus on the new 5-year strategy and rounded up with a question and answer session with High Sheriff Mandy Thorn and hosted by one of the trustees - Simon Broad.

Structure, Governance, and Management

Day to day operational decisions are taken by the Chief Executive and the staff team, within the delegated authority conferred by the Board.

During the year charity was supported by 108 volunteers who gave approximately 6,902 hours (2022-23: 106 volunteers, 8,628). Of these volunteers ten were directly involved in the governance of the charity.

In addition, through our volunteer brokerage service we helped communities and voluntary groups in Shropshire secure a further 7,000 volunteer hours.

TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT

The Trustees (who are also directors of the Community Council of Shropshire for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charitable company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

This report was approved by the Trustees on 24th September 2024 and signed on their behalf by:

Mr HED Strickland, Chair

Independent Examiner’s Report to the Members of The Community Council of Shropshire operating as Community Resource

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of The Community Council of Shropshire ('the Company')

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation 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 your charity's accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of ICAEW which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. 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 true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

  4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Helen Pierce ICAEW WR Partners Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor Belmont House Shrewsbury Business Park Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6LG

Date: 24 September 2024

Statement of Financial Activities

for the year ended 31 March 2024

Balance Sheet 31 March 2024 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Endowrnent Fund 2024 Total Funds 2023 Total Fund5 Notes FIXED ASSEts Tangible assets Investments 557,116 704,429 557,116 1 759 903 576,450 1,642 563 1055 474 1,261,545 1,055,474 2,317,019 2,219,013 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank T3,385 30,860 94,771 175,388 108,156 218,392 45,357 361,231 12,144 44,245 270,159 12,144 326,548 406,588 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within oneyear 136,1041 160,3321 196,4361 1118,9981 NEtCUFOtEKtASSEts 209 827 230112 287 590 TOTALASSEtS LESS CURRENT LIABIUMES 1,269,686 209,827 1,067.618 2,547,131 2,506,603 CREDITOR5 Amounts falling due after more than one year 183,7541 183,7541 190,5471 NEfASSEt5 1,185,932 209,827 1,067,618 2,463,377 2,416,056 FUNDS Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds 22 1,185,932 209,827 1,067,618 1,218,032 237,100 960,924 TOTAL FUNDS 2,463,377 2,416,056

Balance Sheet - continued 31 March 2024

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2024.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2024 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on 24 September 2024 and were signed on its behalf by:

............................................. AL HS Mr H E D Strickland Chairman

Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024

Notes to the Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2024

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of investments which are included at market value, as modified by the revaluation of certain assets.

Going concern

The financial statements are prepared on the basis that the entity is a going concern and will continue its operations for the foreseeable future.

Financial Instruments

The company has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments.

Basic financial assets, including trade and other receivables and cash and bank balances are initially recognised at transaction price and subsequently carried at amortised cost with an assessment for objective evidence of impairment. Any impairment is recognised in profit and loss.

Financial assets are derecognised when (a) a contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are settled, or (b) substantially all the risks and rewards or control of the ownership of the asset are transferred to another party.

Basic financial liabilities including trade and other creditors are initially recognised at transaction price and subsequently carried at amortised cost. Financial liabilities are derecognised when the liability is extinguished, that is when the contractual obligation is discharged, cancelled or expires.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure.

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2024

Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. For restricted projects, fixed asset depreciation is charged over the life of the project or the expected life of the asset, whichever is shorter.

Freehold Property – 50 years straight line Motor Vehicles – 2 to 4 years straight line Fixtures and Fittings – 3 to 5 years straight line

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial statements.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

Investments

Investments are recognised initially at fair value which is normally the transaction price excluding transaction costs. Subsequently, they are measured at fair value through profit or loss if the shares are publicly traded or their fair value can otherwise be measured reliably. Other investments are measured at cost less impairment.

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES

Included within the income from donations and legacies was £10,751 attributed to unrestricted funds (2023: £12,992), £94,501 attributable to restricted funds (2023: £132,905) and £93 attributable to endowed funds (2023: £163).

3. FUNDRAISING AND TRADING ACTIVITIES

In 2024, £35,974 of the income from trading activities was attributable to unrestricted funds (2023: £41,041), £NIL attributable to restricted funds (2023: £NIL) and £NIL attributable to endowed funds (2023: £NIL).

4. INVESTMENT INCOME

In 2024, £18,340 of the investment income was attributable to unrestricted funds (2023: £14,933) and £18,383 attributable to restricted funds (2023: £17,875).

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

8.OTHER CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE

In 2023, the £50,000 was a grant received from the NHS, it was agreed that the charity would transfer the funding to the host company for a voluntary sector engagement and partnership lead post. This was part of restricted funds.

9. GRANTS PAYABLE

GRANTS PAYABLE TO INSTITUTIONS

During the year £28,512 of grants payable were made to 53 institutions (2023: £72,242 of grants payable were made to 38 institutions) and £123,222 of grants payable were made to 381 individuals (2023: £116,365 of grants payable were made to 310 individuals).

10. SUPPORT COSTS

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

11.NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

12. TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2024 nor for the year ended 31 March 2023. There were trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 March 2024 of £52 (2023: £125).

13. STAFF COSTS

Average headcount expressed as a full time equivalent for the year was 15 (2023: 15.25)

No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000 (2023: no employees in excess of £60,000).

The remuneration of the key management personnel, 6 members of staff, during the year was £229,737 (2023: 5 members of staff £187,110) and their employer pension payments totalled £11,486 (2023: £9,383).

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

14. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

The notes form part of these financial statements

Notes to the Financial Statements - Continued for the year ended 31 March 2024

23. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS

The charitable company pays into a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charitable company in independently administered funds. The total pension cost charge amounted to £23,604 (2023: £22,471). At the balance sheet date contributions of £4,248 (2023: £3,928) were payable.

The notes form part of these financial statements

Reference and Administrative Details for the year ended 31 March 2024

The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2023. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).

Governing document

The charity is controlled by its governing document, Articles of Association, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Registered Company number 04652487 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity number 1096779

Registered office 4 The Creative Quarter Shrewsbury Business Park Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6LG

Trustees Mr HED Strickland (Chair) Mr R Amos Mr S Broad Mrs NJ Cooper Ms R Henley Mr C Johnson Mr M Thorn Mrs L Pearson Mrs AR Waugh (appointed 19 September 23) Mr WAW James (appointed 3 May 2024)

Senior Management Team Mrs B Baxter, Chief Executive Mrs S Homden, Head of Finance Ms S Chalk, Head of Service (Well-being and Care) Mrs A Richardson, Head of Service (Rural and Infrastructure)

Mrs K Harrison, Marketing and Communications Manager (Resigned February 29th 2024) Mrs S Teece, Fundraising Manager

Reference and Administrative Details for the year ended 31 March 2024

Independent Examiner WR Partners Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditor Belmont House Shrewsbury Business Park Shrewsbury Shropshire SY2 6LG

Bankers NatWest London EC3P 3HX

Investment Managers James Hambro & Partners LLP 45 Pall Mall St. James's London SW1Y 5JG

CCLA Investment Management Senator House 85 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V ET

The notes form part of these financial statements

Through our diverse range of services aimed at meeting the evolving needs of communities, innovative projects such as our buddy system, falls prevention events, and energy-saving advice alongside our "Warmer Winter Appeal," shows our response to emerging challenges, like fuel poverty highlighting our ability to adapt to urgent needs within the community. This ensures we remain relevant and responsive to changing circumstances.

Contact us

01743 360641

enquiries@community-resource.org.uk www.community-resource.org.uk Follow us on social media

Community Resource is an operating name of the Community Council of Shropshire. A Company Limited by Guarantee 4652487 and a Registered Charity 1096779.