# **Open Door - Colchester Annual Report**
## **2024**
Registered charity number: 1101675
**2**
## **Contents**
|1.|History and Background......................................................................................3|
|---|---|
|2.|Chairman’s Leter................................................................................................5|
|3.|Report on the Public Beneft...............................................................................7|
|4.|Treasurer's Report...............................................................................................8|
|5.|Accounts: Open Door Colchester........................................................................9|
|6.|Independent Examiner's Report on the Accounts............................................13|
|7.|Management and Consttuton.........................................................................14|
|8.|Financial Policies...............................................................................................15|
**3**
## **1.History and Background**
Open Door began in September 1986 when a couple of church members invited a few young drug users for coffee and biscuits. Recognizing the need for help, support, and a safe place, six volunteers initially opened the church vestibule for just two hours a week. This quickly expanded to four hours a week, and then three days a week. The volunteers welcomed people with various needs, offering listening, support, and relationship-building.
After five years in cramped conditions, a church lounge was built, including an office for confidential conversations and telephone use. During this period, three team leaders were appointed, one for each day Open Door was open, under the leadership of the Director.
Listening and counselling, both formal and informal, were central to Open Door’s mission. It provided an informal setting where guests could come and go as they pleased, sit quietly, or talk with a team member. Grounded in prayer from the beginning, the team met each morning to pray. Many people found faith in Jesus through Open Door, and many others benefited emotionally and practically from their involvement.
The charity faced many challenges, as guests often came from difficult situations. Several guests from the rough sleeping community passed away, and there were ongoing battles with various addictions. However, there were also many success stories of overcoming addictions. Some issues required signposting to specialist support, such as Beacon House for emergency medical assessment, Citizens Advice Bureau for legal needs, Social Services for safeguarding issues, Colchester Night Shelter and Colchester Borough Homes for housing, and Open Road, GP surgeries, and rehab providers for mental health and wellbeing support.
Christmas lunch, featuring turkey and Christmas pudding, has been a joyful occasion for guests, often including gift-giving. Nine years ago, further opportunities were developed for guests to explore and express their Christian faith. Open Door opened every Tuesday for a Bible study (Tuesday@Twelve) and Sunday for a service (Sunday@One). These quickly grew in popularity, providing an accessible form of church for those uncomfortable with typical services.
Despite changes over the years, including different directors and managers, Open Door’s core mission has remained unchanged. It continues to be a place where anyone can be welcomed, served affordable food and drink, treated with dignity and respect, listened to, and supported through their challenges. Guests may be homeless, unemployed, hungry, addicted, elderly, lonely, or struggling with mental illness. Thousands have been served over the years, and the charity trusts that many thousands more will continue to be served in the future.
**5**
## **2.Chairman’s Letter**
I am delighted to open this year’s report by extending my deepest thanks to our dedicated trustees, passionate volunteers, and committed staff. Your collective efforts have been nothing short of extraordinary, especially as Open Door has embraced a season of growth and transformation. Together, we have made significant strides in shaping a future that reflects the evolving needs of our community.
## **New Beginnings and Renewed Leadership**
The close of last year marked a new chapter for our Board of Trustees. I was honoured to accept the role of Chair and am pleased to have welcomed Elizabeth Ikuesan as our newest trustee. With a revitalised board bringing fresh perspectives and continued wisdom, I am confident we are well-positioned to build on our foundations and chart a strong course forward.
## **Responding to Change with Purpose**
This past year brought with it opportunities for reflection and renewal. While we transitioned away from our contract with Colchester Borough Homes and experienced shifts in programme attendance, these moments prompted us to take a thoughtful look at our operations. Rather than viewing these changes as setbacks, we embraced them as catalysts for positive transformation.
Our strategic restructuring was driven by a desire to ensure Open Door remains responsive, sustainable, and firmly rooted in the needs of those we serve. This process has strengthened our ability to deliver core services effectively while preparing us to meet future challenges with confidence.
## **Our Impactful Work Continues**
Thanks to the steadfast generosity of our donors and partners, we have continued to deliver vital services to those who need them most. Key areas of support include:
- Practical housing assistance
- Emergency food provision
- Welfare, health, and addiction support.
These programmes continue to reflect our mission; to serve with dignity, compassion, and practical care.
## **A Leadership Transition with Gratitude**
Our director Lee M’cDade announced that will be moving on to work with SASRA. In September. We are sincerely grateful for his leadership over the past two years, during which he guided Open Door through important transitions with strength and care. Looking ahead, Kaoru, our manager, will continue to play a pivotal leadership role. Her deep understanding of our work, combined with her compassionate and steady approach, is deeply valued by all of us at Open Door.
## **Volunteers: The Soul of Our Service**
Our volunteers, many of whom come from local churches, continue to provide an irreplaceable presence. They offer a warm, café-style environment where guests are welcomed, listened to, and supported one-on-one. Their kindness and dedication create a space that feels like home to many. A heartfelt thanks goes to our trustee, Peter Hurstell, whose consistent support, leadership, and administrative care have strengthened our team and operations over the years.
## **Our Trustees and Advisors: Guiding the Way**
Our board of trustees remains instrumental in guiding Open Door with vision, integrity, and strategic oversight. I am continually grateful for their thoughtful governance and willingness to lead by example. Behind the scenes, our advisors and supporters share their expertise and wisdom generously; a quiet but powerful force propelling our mission forward.
## **Celebrating our Donors**
To our incredible donors: Individuals, partner organisations, and grant funders; thank you. Your generosity empowers everything we do and directly transforms lives. Because of you, we continue to offer hope, hospitality, and healing to those who walk through our doors.
## **In closing**
To our staff, volunteers, trustees, advisors, partners, and friends: thank you for standing with us. Your belief in Open Door and in the people, we serve fuels our work and our hope. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate community; one where everyone is seen, valued, and supported.
With heartfelt appreciation,
## **Dr Babatunde Soetan**
Honorary Chair, September 2025
## **3.Report on the Public Benefit**
The aims of Open Door are two-fold:
1. **Provision of Facilities and Support** : To improve the conditions of life for those in need in Colchester by offering facilities, resources, and practical support.
2. **Advancing the Christian Faith** : To provide opportunities for guests to explore and express their Christian faith.
In 2024, these aims have been central to Open Door’s work. **Tuesday@Twelve** ministry has been key in advancing the Christian faith, offering informal and accessible opportunities for guests to engage with their faith. Everyone is welcome at these events and encouraged to participate as much as they feel comfortable.
Emotional and practical support is primarily provided through regular drop-in sessions, open to anyone. Guests are treated equally, regardless of their circumstances or past. We refer guests to appropriate agencies they might not be aware of, assist with phone calls and form-filling, and serve food and drink at very reasonable prices. A willing listening ear is always available.
Many people have found significant help through Open Door. For some, it is the only agency in Colchester they access. We provide a community and safe space for those who are lonely and offer crisis support for those in need.
**8**
## **4.Treasurer's Report**
The accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 follow this report and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
We are incredibly grateful to have received a £10,000 donation from DNA Networks, which has made a significant contribution to our work.
We also deeply appreciate the ongoing support of Colchester Baptist Church, both through financial contributions and by generously allowing us to use their premises free of charge. The continued encouragement from other churches in Colchester and the surrounding district is also highly valued. Our work is sustained not only by organisations but also by individuals. We currently benefit from around 35 regular monthly donations, ranging from £5 to £300, with an average monthly total of approximately £400. This consistent giving plays a vital role in enabling us to deliver our services. We are also thankful for all donations and grants received.
Finally, I would like to express our sincere thanks to Michael Baker FCCA for his professional and diligent work in independently examining these accounts once again.
**Grant Duminy Honorary Treasurer** September 2025
## **5.Accounts: Open Door Colchester**
## **Accounts for the period 1[st] January – 31[st] December 2024**
|**1. Receipts and Payments: General Fund**
**Receipts**
**Donations and Grants**
Colchester Baptist Church
Other Churches
Other Bodies
Individuals
**Total Donations and Grants**
**Receipts from Activities**
Sale of Refreshments
**Total receipts from Activities**
**Other Income**
Other Income
Legacy
Interest on Deposit Accounts
**Total Receipts**|2024
2023
4,500
12,500
11,286
10,605
20,075
26,530
6,623
7,040|
|---|---|
||**42,484**
**56,675**
1,497
1,570|
||**1,497**
**1,570**
273
28
12,112
0
62
258|
||**56,427**
**58,531**|
|**Payments**
**Direct costs of supporting Guests**
Food and Refreshments
"Compassion" payments
**Total Direct Costs**
**Costs of running Open Door – Colchester**
Salaries, Pension and National Insurance
Staff training costs
Telephone line rental, calls and broadband
Insurances
Purchase of Equipment
Administration materials, etc.
**Total Running Costs**|2024
2023
1,861
1,836
223
1,317|
|---|---|
||**2,084**
**3,153**
53,998
46,997
78
1,190
693
671
547
547
517
879
60
72|
||**55,893**
**50,356**|
|**Total Payments**
**Increase (Decrease) in Funds over the Period**
Balance brought forward from the previous Period
**Balance carried forward**
**Richard Green Special Needs Fund**
Donation received
Payments made
Balance carried forward
**Balance of all Funds**
**2. Statement of Assets and Liabilities - 31st December**
Bank balances, etc., held|**57,977**
**53,509**
**-1,551**
**5,022**
39,189
34,168
**37,638**
**39,190**
0
0
0 650
155
155
**37,793**
**39,345**
2024
2023|
|---|---|
|CAF cash account
Deposit with the ADFC
Epworth cash plus
**Liabilities**
Prepayment of grant
**Total Assets**
**Representing balances on Receipts and Payments**
**Accounts**
General Fund
Richard Green Special Needs Fund
**Total Funds**|33,141
34,693
0
4,942
4,652
0
0
**39,345**
**39,345**
38,083
39,190
155
155
**38,238**
**39,345**|
|---|---|
## **Notes on the Accounts**
**1. Accounting policy:** in view of its size, Open Door’s accounts are presented on a “receipts and payments” basis in accordance with Sections 132 & 133 of the Charities Act 2011.
**2. Status:** Open Door – Colchester became a Registered Charity (No 1101675) on 22nd January 2004.
**3. Donations and grants:** large donations and grants given to Open Door are listed in the Treasurer’s Report. Other Churches and bodies in and around Colchester continue to provide much-appreciated support, both in money and prayer.
**4. Gift Aid Income Tax refund:** many individual donations have been made under the Gift Aid Scheme.
**5. The Richard Green Special Needs Fund:** This fund arose from specific donations – its purpose is to help Open Door buy items such as sleeping bags, tents, etc., for guests with needs. Mr Green has generously continued these donations.
**6. Borrowings:** Open Door owes money to no one. The Director, Manager, and Team Leaders are provided with floats, from which they make small grants and loans to guests.
**7. Insurances:** Open Door holds insurance coverage for public and employer liability, trustee indemnity, and legal expenses. Insurance cover for buildings and contents is held by Colchester Baptist Church, on whose premises Open Door operates.
1.
## **6.Independent Examiner's Report on the Accounts**
Report to the Executive Committee (as Trustees) and members of Open Door Colchester (Charity no. 1101675) on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2024 set out on the preceding pages.
**Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The Executive Committee is responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The Committee considers that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed. Examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
- to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act), and
- to state whether matters have come to my attention.
**Basis of independent examiner's statement**
**Independent examiner's statement**
My examination was carried out in accordance with general directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently, no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair' view, and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect, the requirements:
- to keep accounting records by section 130 of the Charities Act.
- to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the Charities Act have not been met; or
2. to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
28[th] May 2025
Signed: Independent Examiner
MG Baker FCA, 118 Chapel Road, West Bergholt, Colchester, C06 3EZ.
## **7.Management and Constitution**
Open Door – Colchester was constituted as a charity separate from Colchester Baptist Church on 25th November 2003 and registered with the Charity Commission on 22nd January 2004 (registered number 1101675).
Open Door is managed by an Executive Committee of between 5 and 12 members, including.
- Honorary Officers (Chair, Secretary and Treasurer) elected at each Annual General Meeting
- Ex Officio, the Senior Minister for the time being of Colchester Baptist Church
- Nominated members who are practising Christians and the majority of whom are members of Colchester Baptist Church, appointed by the Deacons of that Church.
Membership of the Executive Committee and Trustees in 2024
- Dr Babatunde Soetan, Honorary Chair
- William Butcher, Honorary Secretary
- Grant Duminy, Honorary Treasurer
- Peter Hurstell, Safeguarding
- Brenda Reade
- Sandra Stockwell, Fundraising
- Elizabeth Ikuesan
Open Door is overseen by part-time Director Lee McDade, who manages the day-today activities with support from Kaoru Magee, the full-time Drop-in Manager. The centre operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with groups of volunteers coordinated by three team leaders. The centre currently has around 23 volunteers and welcomes 80–100 visitors each week. Operating in a café-style dropin format, Open Door provides a welcoming environment offering a wide range of support — from a listening ear to practical assistance with everyday challenges. It serves as an important community hub, fostering connection and support among residents.
## **8.Financial Policies**
## **Investments**
The investment funds possessed by Open Door – Colchester have been small and are not held for the long term. Hitherto, the Trustees have considered it appropriate for funds not immediately needed for current expenses to be placed on deposit. These funds are placed in an account with the Affirmative Deposit Fund for Charities (ADFC) operated by Epworth Investment Management (associated with the Methodist Church) and the CAF/ Shawbrook Bank to gain interest while retaining immediate access to the funds. A current account is held with the CAF Bank to manage the day-to-day needs of Open Door.
## **Reserves**
We currently have a balance of £4,942 in interest-bearing deposit accounts.
## **Grants and Loans**
Open Door – Colchester does not make significant grants to individuals (or organisations). Small sums of money to assist with living expenses, delays in receiving benefits, etc., are provided for individual guests in appropriate cases at the discretion of the Director, Manager or Team Leaders. When feasible, these sums are provided in the form of loans and repayment terms agreed with the Guest. Otherwise, the money is given without strings attached.