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2025-03-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1097796 (England and Wales) Company registration number 04693569

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Adrienne Arthurs (Co-Chair) Rosie Waters (Co-Chair) Siobhan Brunwin Madeleine Forster Adam Thapar Chief Executive Hannah Morgan-Gray Charity number 1097796 Company number 04693569 Principal address & 2 Walsworth Road Registered office Hitchin Hertfordshire SG4 9SP Independent examiner Gary Howard FCA Howard Wilson Chartered Accountants 36 Crown Rise Watford Hertfordshire WD25 0NE Bankers HSBC plc Town Centre Danestrete Stevenage Hertfordshire SG1 1BY

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

CONTENTS

Page
Statements from Co-Chairs of the Board of Trustees and Chief Executive 1 - 3
Trustees' report 4 - 9
Statement of trustees' responsibilities 10
Independent examiner's report 11
Statement of financial activities 12
Balance sheet 13
Statement of cash flows 14
Notes to the financial statements 15 - 26

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENTS FROM CHAIR OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

STATEMENT FROM OUR CO-CHAIRS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

It’s tough out there for the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector at the moment as we deal with a decrease in available funding, rising costs, including Employer’s National Insurance, and challenges around attracting volunteers. And against this, many of us face rising demand for the services and activities we provide so are busier than ever.

One of our sector’s (many) strengths is its ability to be innovative, agile, and creative, particularly in hard times. We see challenges as opportunities, are experienced at delivering impact with few resources and are brilliant at working together to face the hard times together. However, just because we can produce rabbits out of hats it doesn’t mean that we should be expected to do so.

That is why it is so crucial to have organisations like NH&SCVS which can advocate and network on behalf of a whole sector, fight our corner with commissioners and funders, help us attract support via volunteers and donations, and let everyone know about the change-making work that we deliver.

Hannah Morgan-Gray, our CEO, writes about some key achievements in her statement, but we would like to highlight two projects here which focus on volunteering, the lifeblood of what do.

GoVolHerts, which connects prospective volunteers with opportunities across the county, is a jewel in our crown. Not only does the digital platform make it easy to recruit volunteers, but the team provides networking for volunteer managers and opportunities to knowledge share and learn. This service really helps reduce the workload for hardpressed groups and enables us to share best practice.

And this year we led a partnership bid with the Integrated Care Board to lead on a new Volunteering for Health programme across Herts and West Essex. The pandemic increased the number of people who want to volunteer to support NHS services and patients and this programme aims to make it easier for people to do so. We look forward to seeing the results from this three year project.

As always, the trustee board would like to thank Hannah and the NH&SCVS team for their dedication and hard work, and our partners for their continued support.

Adrienne Arthurs & Rosie Waters NH&S CVS Co-Chairs

Dated: 18 September 2025

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENTS FROM CHAIR OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

STATEMENT FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Our core CVS service continues to go from strength to strength. This year, our Community Capacity Builder has provided dedicated, hands-on support to over 128 local VCFSE organisations, marking a 15% increase. From specialist funding advice and governance guidance to policies, procedures and acting as a trusted critical friend, we’ve become a go-to source of knowledge, encouragement and empowerment for the sector. Our AGM and Volunteer Summit in September attracted over 60 engaged attendees and ignited lively, forward-thinking discussion about the future of volunteering, a top priority for our local communities.

In response to sector demand, we’re proud to launch the brand-new +CEO Network: a monthly peer support space designed exclusively for VCFSE CEOs and Founders. It’s a safe, supportive environment where leaders can share challenges, swap recommendations, and lift each other up. We also hit the road with our new CVS Roadshow bringing our services directly into the heart of communities across Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock, Royston, and Stevenage. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and we’re thrilled to be making the Roadshow a long-term fixture.

Our digital volunteering platform, GoVolHerts, has had another phenomenal year. With over 485 organisations now using the site, a 22% increase, volunteers can now explore more than 622 live opportunities. We’ve seen an incredible 36% growth in registered users, now standing at 6,827. But GoVolHerts is more than a website, it’s a movement. This year, we launched our brand-new Resource Library, which has already racked up more than 2,000 views. It’s packed with essential tools, templates and good practice guidance for volunteers, trustees and organisations alike.

Our GoVolHerts team continues to meet communities where they are attending volunteer fairs, delivering highquality training, and working directly with organisations to enhance their volunteer recruitment and management.

"We at Celtic Harmony are enormously grateful for the kindness and support shown by the entire GoVolHerts team. They consistently help us raise awareness of our work in education and woodland conservation and are instrumental in bringing together individuals and organisations across Hertfordshire. Thank you for striving to bring the whole county together."

David, Celtic Harmony

Meanwhile, in my role as re-elected representative on the Herts and West Essex VCFSE Alliance, I’ve been collaborating with the University of Hertfordshire ICS partnership on an ambitious, game-changing project: the Social Value and Impact Calculator. Co-designed by the sector for the sector, this free, innovative tool will empower organisations to robustly evidence their social value to funders, partners, and the public. It’s in the final testing phase and set to launch later this summer.

Our success continues to be fuelled by the power of partnership. We were delighted to join forces with Age UK Hertfordshire and Public Health to deliver Age Friendly Hertfordshire a bold, collaborative initiative working alongside local residents, organisations, government and the national Centre for Ageing Better. Together, we’re striving to make Hertfordshire the very best county in which to grow older, where everyone feels valued and can live well throughout later life.

We also led a successful partnership bid with the ICB to spearhead Volunteering for Health across Herts and West Essex. This transformative 3-year programme will tap into the enormous, and often overlooked, potential of volunteering to enhance services, improve patient and staff experiences, and create new pathways into health and care careers. We’re working hard to remove barriers to volunteering, streamline systems, and explore the power of volunteering passporting.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENTS FROM CHAIR OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

At a time when the VCFSE sector is facing some of its toughest challenges and most exciting opportunities we believe this is a pivotal moment to invest in the trusted local infrastructure that holds communities together. With public services evolving and communities still recovering from the long shadows of the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, our role has never been more vital. That’s why we’re actively pursuing new funding to grow our work and rise to the moment.

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and we’re ready to achieve even more. Our vision is clear: to make North Herts and Stevenage a national model of how strong, effective partnerships between statutory and voluntary sectors can change lives.

None of this would be possible without the extraordinary commitment of our passionate staff team, our inspiring volunteers, and our dedicated trustees. Their energy, heart, and belief in our mission continue to power real, lasting change. To each and every one of them and to all who stand with our charity, thank you.

Hannah Morgan-Gray Chief Executive

Dated: 18 September 2025

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "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)".

Objectives and activities

The charity is established to:

Our Vision and Purpose

Mission

To enable the VCFSE sector, local people and our communities to thrive and reach their potential and make life easier for people to connect.

Vision

Is for connected, resilient and compassionate communities where people work together to improve lives.

Values: We are CARING, CREATIVE, RESPONSIVE, TRUSTED

Our Public Benefit

North Hertfordshire Centre for Voluntary Service Limited (NH&SCVS) is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and actively works to eliminate all forms of discrimination.

In shaping our objectives for the year and planning our activities, the trustees have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit, including the guidance on public benefit and fee charging. We reply on grants and the income from fees and charges to cover our operating costs. In setting the level of fees, charges and concessions, the trustees consider access to our facilities by those on low incomes.

NH&SCVS’s public benefit is delivered through providing information, support, services, and advice to the voluntary and community sector in North Herts and Stevenage as well as by providing direct services to local people through our projects.

What we deliver

NH&SCVS Member Services

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

What we deliver (continued)

To carry out these core functions, NH&SCVS also manage local projects as appropriate: Community Transport

Breakaway Respite Playschemes GoVolHerts

Reach Out Hertfordshire Staying Connected Practical Partners Age-Friendly Hertfordshire Volunteering for Health

Achievements and Impact

Supporting Our Members to Thrive

We continue to champion and support voluntary and community organisations across North Herts and Stevenage, delivering tailored advice and practical help where it matters most. Over the past year, our team has focused on:

Connecting Through Communications

We’re keeping our members informed, inspired, and connected through a wide range of channels:

Raising the Voice of the Sector

Our weekly column in The Comet newspaper has become a powerful platform, shining a spotlight on the amazing work of local charities and key sector issues. We’ve featured:

Through social media, print, and online channels, we’ve helped local groups reach new audiences, share their impact, and attract new supporters.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Stronger Together: Partnerships and Influence

Our active involvement in local and regional partnerships ensures the voice of the VCFSE sector is heard in key decision-making spaces:

Our CEO, is leading from the front:

Skills, Learning, and Events

We’ve delivered a vibrant training and events programme to upskill the sector and bring people together:

Flagship events including:

Strategic report

The description under the headings "Achievements and performance" and "Financial review" meet the company law requirements for the trustees to present a strategic report.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Financial review

For the 2024/25 financial year, the charity had income of £915,714 (2024: £704,141). The reserves policy which is set by the trustees is set to provide 4 months running and closure costs. Currently these costs are set at £477,000.

Grants for core activities amounted to £22,072 (2024: £26,640) from North Hertfordshire District Council. Income from other unrestricted sources was £108,258 (2024: £101,538). A deficit on unrestricted funds before transfers of £11,329 (2024: deficit £34,970) resulted for the year.

The Board recognises the ongoing pressure to enhance our services while supporting the development of the local voluntary sector. To address this, we have continued to allocate designated funds for capacity building, which will help strengthen the infrastructure of our membership support.

Given the challenging environment, with more individuals relying on voluntary and community organisations for support, the demand for the services we provide will continue to grow. Therefore, it is crucial for us to maintain strict budget control and explore new funding opportunities to ensure we can sustain and expand our support for local groups.

Reserves policy

Deciding the level of reserves that a charity needs to hold is an important part of financial management and forward financial planning. Failure to do this may result in reserves levels which are either:

NH&SCVS Trustees, on a regular basis, review the total amount and designation of reserves to ensure they are at a level that enables NH&SCVS to manage financial risk and income volatility over the medium to long term. The level of reserves should enable NH&SCVS to maintain an optimal level of service, whilst meeting its financial commitments as and when they fall due.

Reserves represent the total unrestricted funds at a point in time. As of 31st March 2025, NH&SCVS held £536,507 of unrestricted funds. The trustees have agreed that it is prudent to set aside reserves for four months’ running costs and closure costs. As stated earlier, this equates to £477,000.

A further £70,000 has been designated to support infrastructure development and long-term sustainability and includes:

We continue to actively seek additional sources of income to continue improving our services and better serve the local community.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Risk management

The trustees review their assessment of the risks to which the charity is exposed annually. The trustees have recognised as a prime risk, the lack of long-term financial stability and seeks to address this risk by delivering projects and diversifying income streams in partnership with other like-minded organisations. Risks are assessed and highlighted to the board by the CEO at each board meeting and Finance and Risk Committee meeting.

Plans for the future

Structure, governance and management

NH&SCVS is a company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 11 March 2003 and registered as a charity on 3 June 2003. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed by its Articles of Association. NH&SCVS changed its name from Council to Centre in November 2008. NH&SCVS also revised its Memorandum and Articles of Association in October 2014 to update its objects and to cover the borough of Stevenage following approval from the membership in September 2014 at the Annual General Meeting.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served since the start of the year are:

Ms A Arthurs (Co-Chair)

Ms R Waters (Co-Chair)

Mrs S M Brunwin (appointed 26 September 2024)

Ms F O Fashesin-Souza Akala (appointed 28 May 2024, resigned 21 May 2025) Mr G Fedyk (resigned 11 February 2025)

Ms M Forster

Ms J Hobbs (resigned 8 July 2024)

Mr A Kuczys (resigned 26 September 2024)

Dr P McMeekin (appointed 11 February 2025, resigned 25 July 2025) Mr A Thapar (appointed 26 September 2024)

Recruitment of new trustees is by communication with our member organisations and appointment is by election at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September of each year. All trustees must be members of North Herts and Stevenage CVS and the member groups are invited to nominate people to serve.

Prior to inviting nominations, the board of trustees review their skills to try to attract people with the relevant skills

and experience to the committee.

On appointment, each trustee signs and agrees to a code of conduct and confidentiality statement. They are invited to attend an initial welcome meeting and are given a welcome pack which includes the constitution, selected policies and procedures, and other guidance and information about the governance of the charity. Their responsibilities include the overall management of the business of NH&SCVS, regular review of the finances and monitoring of any projects. New trustees also have an induction session with the Chair, Chief Executive, meet other trustees and staff and visit our projects.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

NH&SCVS is signatory to a Memorandum of Understanding with North Hertfordshire District Council, under which NHDC is entitled to have two ex officio nominees on the Board of Trustees.

The trustees meet a minimum of four times a year. At meetings board members accept reports relevant to the business and performance of the organisation. Other committees and working groups are set up as needed. Three Committees are in place to support the information flow and deep dive into each area of the business 1. FRC – Finance and Risk Committee, 2. PCC – People and Culture Committee, 3 ET Executive Team (Co-Chairs and CEO).

Day to day financial transactions are recorded and the financial status of the company reviewed at each trustees meeting.

Day to day running of the business is delegated to the Chief Executive Officer.

Compliance With the Charity Governance Code

The aim of the Charity Governance Code is to help charities and their trustees develop high standards of governance. As a sector, we owe it to our beneficiaries, stakeholders, and supporters to demonstrate exemplary leadership and governance. At NH&SCVS we introduced the code as a guide in 2022, looking at areas we can improve our Board of Trustees practice and how it is supported by the leadership Team.

Related Parties

None of the trustees receives remuneration or other benefit from their work with the charity.

None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company.

Trustees are invited to declare any relevant conflicts of interest at each board meeting, and formally requested to submit an annual register of interests’ form. Board members reported no relevant interests or transactions.

Our Thanks

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Ms R Waters

Trustee (Co-Chair)

Ms A Arthurs

Trustee (Co-Chair) Dated: 18 September 2025

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees, who are also the directors of North Hertfordshire Centre for Voluntary Service Limited for the purpose 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 which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity 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 charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of North Hertfordshire Centre for Voluntary Service Limited (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the charity (and also its directors for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act 2011.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000, the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, 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 that in any material respect:

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 financial statements to be reached.

Gary Howard FCA

Howard Wilson Chartered Accountants 36 Crown Rise Watford Hertfordshire WD25 0NE 17 October 2025

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
22,072
7,182
Charitable activities
4
65,740
744,890
Investments
5
5,007
-
Other income
6
37,511
33,312
Total income
130,330
785,384
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
7
141,659
667,017
Total expenditure
141,659
667,017
Net income/(expenditure)
(11,329)
118,367
Transfers between
funds
32,920
(32,920)
Net movement in
funds
8
21,591
85,447
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2024
547,836
44,193
Fund balances at 31 March
2025
569,427
129,640		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
29,254
26,811
7,190
810,630
68,652
546,312
5,007
4,093
-
70,823
28,622
22,461
915,714
128,178
575,963
808,676
163,118
548,685
808,676
163,118
548,685
107,038
(34,940)
27,278
-
39,841
(39,841)
107,038
4,901
(12,563)
592,029
542,935
56,756
699,067
547,836
44,193		 Total
2024
£
34,001
614,964
4,093
51,083
704,141
711,803
711,803
(7,662)
-
(7,662)
599,691
592,029

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Fixed assets
Intangible assets
11
Current assets
Debtors
12
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
13
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds
16
Unrestricted funds
18		 2025
£
25,755
708,871
734,626
(40,260)		 £
4,701
694,366
699,067
129,640
569,427
699,067		 2024
£
31,674
594,392
626,066
(34,037)		 £
-
592,029
592,029
44,193
547,836
592,029

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 18 September 2025

Ms A Arthurs Ms R Waters Trustee Trustee

Company registration number 04693569 (England and Wales)

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
21
Investing activities
Purchase of intangible assets
Investment income received
Net cash (used in)/generated from investing
activities
Net cash generated from financing activities
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2025
£
(5,836)
5,007		 £
115,308
(829)
-
114,479
594,392
708,871		 2024
£
-
4,093		 £
37,826
4,093
-
41,919
552,473
594,392

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

North Hertfordshire Centre for Voluntary Service Limited is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 2 Walsworth Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 9SP.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "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)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure on operational programmes is recognised in the period in which it is incurred.

The majority of costs are directly attributable to specific activities. Certain shared costs are apportioned to activities in furtherance of the objects of the charity. Office costs and property related costs are apportioned on the proportion of floor area occupied by each activity. Staff costs and office costs are allocated in the same proportion as directly attributable staff costs.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.6 Intangible fixed assets other than goodwill

Intangible assets acquired separately from a business are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.

Intangible assets acquired on business combinations are recognised separately from goodwill at the acquisition date where it is probable that the expected future economic benefits that are attributable to the asset will flow to the entity and the fair value of the asset can be measured reliably; the intangible asset arises from contractual or other legal rights; and the intangible asset is separable from the entity.

Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Software

over 3 years

1.7 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible and intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.9 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.11 Retirement benefits

The charity operates a defined contributions pension scheme. Contributions are charged in the accounts as they become payable in accordance with the rules of the scheme.

1.12 Creditors and provisions

Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

3
Income from donations and legacies
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
Donations and gifts
-
7,182
Grants
22,072
-
22,072
7,182
Grants
North Hertfordshire
District Council
22,072
-
22,072
-		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
7,182
171
7,190
22,072
26,640
-
29,254
26,811
7,190
22,072
26,640
-
22,072
26,640
-		 Total
2024
£
7,361
26,640
34,001
26,640
26,640

4 Promotion of charitable activities in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage

Grants received
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
Grants received
Hertfordshire County Council
North Hertfordshire District Council
CW+
Stevenage Borough Council
Communities 1st
Community Action Dacorum
Age UK
Other grants		 2025
£
810,630
65,740
744,890
810,630
630,700
30,622
66,056
2,500
49,740
6,012
20,340
4,660
810,630		 2024
£
614,964
68,652
546,312
614,964
531,330
16,000
-
9,000
52,652
5,982
-
-
614,964

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

5 Income from investments

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2025 2024
£ £
Interest receivable 5,007 4,093

6 Other income

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
Other income
14,775
21,047
Fees for work for others
20,712
-
Affiliation fees
2,024
12,265
37,511
33,312		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
35,822
19,182
10,242
20,712
8,040
-
14,289
1,400
12,219
70,823
28,622
22,461		 Total
2024
£
29,424
8,040
13,619
51,083

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7 Promotion of charitable activities in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage

Staff costs
Depreciation and impairment
Other staff costs
Project costs
Equipment & toys
Premises costs
Insurance
Repairs & maintenance
Office costs
Computer costs
Travel and subsistence
General expenses
Legal & professional
Governance costs
Finance costs
Relocation costs
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
8
Net movement in funds
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial
statements
Amortisation of intangible assets
9
Trustees		 2025
£
654,532
1,135
14,594
34,181
5,868
12,839
5,124
4,675
9,309
25,227
11,543
6,012
21,144
1,800
693
-
808,676
141,659
667,017
808,676
2025
£
1,800
1,135		 2024
£
559,288
-
20,519
29,115
3,666
12,726
4,343
4,713
9,356
27,594
9,623
9,604
18,475
1,910
525
346
711,803
163,118
548,685
711,803
2024
£
1,920
-

None of the trustees received any remuneration or were reimbursed any expenses during the year.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

10 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Executive & Deputy Officer:Advice & Administration
Respite Schemes
Other Schemes
Administration and Support
Total
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2025
Number
1
1
17
5
24
2025
£
603,182
41,531
9,819
654,532		 2024
Number
1
1
14
5
21
2024
£
516,144
34,712
8,432
559,288

In addition to the above there were 30 (2024: 33) members of staff that were employed by the Playscheme on a casual basis with varying hours that do not readily convert to a full time equivalent.

The number of employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000 is as follows: The number of employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000 is as follows:
2025 2024
Number Number
£60,001 - £70,000 1 -

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

11 Intangible fixed assets

Cost
At 1 April 2024
Additions - separately acquired
At 31 March 2025
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
Amortisation charged for the year
At 31 March 2025
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
12
Debtors
Amounts falling due within one year:
Trade debtors
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income
13
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Notes
Other taxation and social security
Deferred income
14
Trade creditors
Other creditors
Accruals
14
Deferred income
Other deferred income		 Software
£
-
5,836
5,836
-
1,135
1,135
4,701
-
2025
2024
£
£
18,239
26,158
2,165
2,165
5,351
3,351
25,755
31,674
2025
2024
£
£
10,959
9,157
19,826
14,361
1,752
5,548
2,280
2,766
5,443
2,205
40,260
34,037
2025
2024
£
£
19,826
14,361		 Software
£
-
5,836
5,836
-
1,135
1,135
4,701
-
2025
2024
£
£
18,239
26,158
2,165
2,165
5,351
3,351
25,755
31,674
2025
2024
£
£
10,959
9,157
19,826
14,361
1,752
5,548
2,280
2,766
5,443
2,205
40,260
34,037
2025
2024
£
£
19,826
14,361
5,836
-
1,135
1,135
4,701
-
2024
£
26,158
2,165
3,351
31,674
2024
£
9,157
14,361
5,548
2,766
2,205
34,037
2024
£
14,361

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14
Deferred income
Deferred income is included in the financial statements as follows:
Deferred income is included within:
Current liabilities
Movements in the year:
Deferred income at 1 April 2024
Released from previous periods
Resources deferred in the year
Deferred income at 31 March 2025
15
Retirement benefit schemes
Defined contribution schemes
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes		 (Continued)
2025
2024
£
£
19,826
14,361
14,361
15,778
(14,361)
(15,778)
19,826
14,361
19,826
14,361
2025
2024
£
£
9,819
8,432

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

16 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2024 resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £ £
Breakaway Playschemes 10,000 207,670 (181,970) (15,700) 20,000
Transport Scheme 10,000 77,753 (76,732) - 11,021
Reach Out Projects 10,000 221,322 (209,755) (11,567) 10,000
Staying Connected 2,851 28,310 (15,449) - 15,712
GoVolHerts Volunteering 10,000 134,789 (129,136) (5,653) 10,000
Practical Partners 1,342 28,370 (27,127) - 2,585
Age Friendly Herts - 21,114 (20,007) - 1,107
Volunteering for Health - 66,056 (6,841) - 59,215
44,193 785,384 (667,017) (32,920) 129,640

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

16 Restricted funds (Continued)
Previous year: At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2023 resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Breakaway Playschemes 8,187 121,892 (115,364) (4,715) 10,000
Transport Scheme 12,663 86,398 (83,403) (5,658) 10,000
Reach Out Projects 9,845 209,231 (202,496) (6,580) 10,000
Staying Connected 5,849 5,509 (8,507) - 2,851
GoVolHerts Volunteering 18,700 127,828 (123,002) (13,526) 10,000
Sustainability 1,512 9,000 (1,150) (9,362) -
Practical Partners - 16,105 (14,763) - 1,342
56,756 575,963 (548,685) (39,841) 44,193

Breakaway Playschemes funding is restricted to the funding of playschemes during holiday periods and for Saturday clubs, which are run for children and young people with disabilities aged 5-19 within the North Herts and Stevenage area.

The Transport Scheme is funding towards the cost of the transport scheme co-ordinator.

Reach Out is a project that provides companionship and practical support to older people who are medically vulnerable and at risk of hospital admission, or have recently been discharged from hospital. Reach Out assists people by linking them up with a volunteer in their neighbourhood who can offer support to them in their own home – helping them to adjust to and recover from illness, whilst also reducing social isolation and loneliness.

Staying Connected is a project to provide start up Wi-Fi to connect to the internet, recycled and refurbished old laptops, tablets and mobile phones donated by members of the public and redistribute them to people in need in Hertfordshire.

GoVolHerts is funding from Hertfordshire County Council for GoVolHerts Volunteering which aims to raise the profile of volunteering, encourage citizens to volunteer in their local communities and increase volunteer engagement across Hertfordshire using new media.

Sustainability is funding from Stevenage Borough Council towards Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise workshops and grants for decarbonisation and sustainability.

Practical Partners is a 2 year project to improve outcomes for care leavers aged 16 - 30 who are struggling with the challenges of becoming independent. The project is funded by the National Lottery in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council.

Age Friendly Herts is funding from Age UK for an initiative to turn Hertfordshire into an Age Friendly Community with the aim of making Hertfordshire the only 2-tier authority currently with accreditation.

Volunteering for Health is funding from CW+ for the Valuing Volunteer Partnership Programme in Hertfordshire and Essex. The income and expenditure in this period relates to the development phase of the programme.

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

17 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
At 31 March 2025:
Intangible fixed assets
4,701
-
Current assets/(liabilities)
564,726
129,640
569,427
129,640
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
At 31 March 2024:
Current assets/(liabilities)
547,836
44,193
547,836
44,193		 Total
2025
£
4,701
694,366
699,067
Total
2024
£
592,029
592,029

18 Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2024 resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £ £
Reserves Fund 428,000 - - 49,000 477,000
Development Fund 100,000 - - (30,000) 70,000
General funds 19,836 130,330 (141,659) 13,920 22,427
547,836 130,330 (141,659) 32,920 569,427
Previous year: At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2023 resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Reserves Fund 235,000 - - 193,000 428,000
Development Fund 55,000 - - 45,000 100,000
General funds 252,935 128,178 (163,118) (198,159) 19,836
542,935 128,178 (163,118) 39,841 547,836

NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE CENTRE FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE LIMITED

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

18 Unrestricted funds

(Continued)

The reserves fund is funds set aside to cover four months running costs plus closure costs in the event that the Charity had to cease activities.

The development fund is funding set aside to support infrastructure development and long-term sustainability.

19 Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).

20 Analysis of changes in net funds

The charity had no material debt during the year.

21
Cash generated from operations
Surplus/(deficit) for the year
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
Movements in working capital:
Decrease in debtors
Increase in creditors
Increase/(decrease) in deferred income
Cash generated from operations		 2025
£
107,038
(5,007)
1,135
5,919
758
5,465
115,308		 2024
£
(7,662)
(4,093)
-
47,437
3,562
(1,417)
37,827