Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 Registered Charity No. 1107907 Company No. 5287678 FCA Authorisation No. 617720
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees And Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 CONTENTS Report of the Directors and Trustees 1-10 Independent Examiners Report 11 ststement of Financial Activities 12 Balan Sheet 13 Statement of Cash Flows 14 Notes to the Accounts 15-27
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 The Trustees (who are also the Directors for the purpose of Company Law) have pleasure in presenting their annual report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025. The financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practi applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published in October 2019. The following people were directorsrtrustees of the charity on the date of approval of the port: DIRECTORSI TRUSTEES ROLE ELECTED BY DATE ELECTED Elizabeth Cooper Michael Cropper Christopher Mortlock Susan Jarron Chair Members 1Apr20 70ct19 Trustee Members Trustse Members 9May23 9May23 10 Dec24 Trustee Members Barbie Coulson Trustee Members Richard Gill Trustee Members 11 Jun25 Nicola Bateman Trustee Members 11Jun25 The following people additionally served as directorsftrustees during the year: EXIDIRECTORS ROLE TRUSTEES ELECTED DATE DATE BY ELECTED RESIGNED Graeme Baines Trustee Members 21 Nov 22 2 July 24 23Jan 15 28 Nov24 Philip Grimley Tim Devas Trustee Members Trustee Members 9Nov20 28 Nov 24 Hannah Williams Trustee Members 21 Nov 22 30 July 25 In this report: The directors of the Charity are referred to as "trustees" Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau is referred to as "CAR" or 'lhe Charity". All trustees give their time freely and no trustee received remuneration in the year. Details of any trustee expenses are disclosed in note 9.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Charitsble purpose The purpose of the charity is to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of the community in Rutland and surrounding areas, by the advancement of education, the protection and preservation of health and relief of poverty, sickness and distress. Fundamental to achieving its charitable aims, the Charty has an underlying goal of raising funds to enable it to provide the sepiceS which it is established to deliver. CAR aims to fulfil its purpose through its objectives. The core aims of the Charity set CAR'S strategic objectives. CAR aims to provide free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information for the benefrt of the local community, to exercise a responsible Influen on the development of social policies and services, and to ensure individuals do not suffer due to a lack of knowledge or an inability to express their needs effectively. Strategic objectives during the period of the report included: To maintain and grow the core advice function and to deliver a service that assists the population of Rutland; To work to increase awareness of, and improve aCsS to the Charity", To support and develop the voluntsry sector in Rutland and to support and help coordinate the activities of other charities. This enables CAR to broaden considerably its ability to fulfil the purposes of advancement of education, the protection and preservation of health and relief of poverty, sickness and distress beyond the delivery of core advi services; To work to highlight those policy, delivery and service issues that are, or have potential to impact negatively on the quality of life of Rutland residents; and To maintain membership of the Citizens Advice Network. Activities The Trustees have paid due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in deciding the activities undertaken by the organisation and are satisfied that the information provided in the report and accounts meets the public benefit reporting requirements. During the past financial year, the organisation has continued to deliver both traditional advice services and services in support of the voluntary sector.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Advice services: In addition to generalist advi the following specialist services were provided during the year: Debt Welfare Rights Housing Prevention of Homelessness Additionally specialised advice was also provided to people with long term medical conditions. CAR provided guidance and advice to a large number of clients (see below) and maintained quality standards throughout the year. As a result of the continued cost-of- living crisis the organisation has never been busier in terms of case load or numbers of clients seeking advice in CAR'S 50 year history. CAR continued to provide advice for people with long tenn health conditions in the county. This work is supported by fundraising activities undertaken by 'For Rutland, _ the name of CAR'S fundraising group. Campaigns CAR continues to play an active role in working to improve the policies and praCtIS that affect peoples, lives, through contributing to the Citizens Advice head office's work in research and campaigns, and taking part in focus groups throughout the year. Collaboration Over the past 12 months CAR has improved its partnership working and collaboration with partner agencies. This has included information sharing, development of and participation in events as well as regular meetings for the Charity and voluntary sector to attend. Voluntary and Community Sector Over the past 12 months CAR has continued with the delivery of a series of activities and initiatives in support of the Voluntsry and Community Sector (VCS) including: promoting and increasing the supply of volunteers to multiple VCS groups in Rutland; delivering social media engagement training; promoting funding opportunities; developing Spa at the CAR offIS as a community hub available for voluntary groups to use for meetings and other purposes; increasing collaboration and cooperation amongst VCS partners through the circulation of newsletters with details of community events,. and establishment of and attendance at a variety of community events.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Fundraising Activities CAR'S funds consist of a) unrestricted income funds which can be used in the delivery of the charitable objectives at the trustees, discretion and b) restricted income funds which can only be used for particular restricted projects or purposes within the objects of the Charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the funder or when funds are raised for particular restricted projects or purposes. Expenditure which meets the restricted criteria is charged to that fund, together with a fair allocation of CAR support and administrative costs. Overall, CAR is dependent on a small number of fund SoUrS to support the majority of our work. In this context, the trustees have determined that the CAR strategy needs to- a) focus on agility and survival of the organisation; b) be able to respond rapidly to the changing politicalleconomic environment in Rutland; and c) continue to widen our donor base and look for new sources of income. CAR fundraising volunteers continued operating under the brand of 'For Rutland,, organising significant fundraising events including the Bottle Tombola at the Rutland County Show in June 2024 and the Good & New Sale in March 2025. During the reporting period CAR conducted a direct mail appeal to Parish and local Councils in Rutland for financial support. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE During 2024125 the top three categories of advice remained Welfare Rights, Housing and Debt. We saw 3,032 unique clients during the year and assisted with 15,237 presenting issues. Presenting issues break down as follows: welfa rights - 8,928 Debt- 1,814 Housing - 1,901 Other- 2,594 The financial gain for clients in 2024125 was over £2.5 million, which is made up of £1,558,329 for general advice clients and £982,162 for our tailored advi work for clients with long term health issues. 100 % of clients who responded to survey questions are either satisfied or very satisfied with our service. CAR continued to welcome clients from across the county, over the last 12 months 390/0 of clients came from wards and parishes outside Oakham. and Uppingham. 62 % of our clients were women and 38 % men. Clients under pension age made up 670/0 of those seen and those over pension age 330/0. Note. Oakham figure includes B8rt8ythorpe
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Inveslment Activities The Charity does not currently hold any material investrnents, although it does make deposits into the Flagstone cash deposit plafform to distribute its reserdes, both unrestricted and restricted, across rnultiple short term savings accounts. This approach maximises interest earnings while ensuring the securty of the funds. Current savings are considered alongside our reserves policy. Factors Affecting the Achievement of Objectives Financial risk.. this is addressed under the Financial Review; Higher demand on health and social care provision putting more pressure on statutory services., The future of Rutland County Council- Access to the services provided by clients and potential clients; and Recruitment of employees and volunteers. FINANCIAL REVIEW Financial Position We began the financial year with a planned budgetary deficit of £61,515. However, the year end results were broadly balanced, with a small deficit of £3,612. This was achieved through restructuring measures, other operational challenges, and cost cutting initiatives. Total income for the year was £399,545 (2024: £484,846), of this £214,505 (2024: £262,227) related to restricted project activities by 'For Rutland,, The Voluntary Sector Support, Trussell Trust, and a grant from Citizens Advice Innovation. At 31 March 2025 the free reserves were £183,507, an increase from the 2024 figure of £152,234, which is above the reserves policy figure set by the trustee board, which aims to maintain sufficient funds. Current free reserves would cover approximately nine months of operational costs. The National Citizens Advice financial health monitoring report noted our financial health in areas of liquidity and free reserves at the end of the financial year March 2024, rating them as minimal risk. The Restricted funds at the year*nd stood at £157,362 {2024. £192,438). these funds are earmarked for specific projects including: "For Rutland" and AVM. While we are encouraged by the yeaffs financial outcome, we must remain mindful of the severe challenges ahead, including increased demand for our services and rising salaries and operational costs, whilst the future of funding from Rutland County Council is uncertain as we move into a period of UnrtaInty about the operational model.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Financial Position (continued) The Board and management team are actively exploring opportunities for new funding streams and further small efficiencies to ensure our sustainability and as far as possible continued independen. Resarves Policy The trustees establish a Reserves Policy to ensure that the bureau's core activities can continue during unforeseen difficulties. In May 2024, the reserve arnount was set at £125,000. The trustees considered the Charivs free reserve requirements, considering the primary risks to the organisation. They identified the main risks to both income and expenditure and calculated the potential financial impact of adverse changes. The identified free reserves would allow for short-term drawdowns, providing time for mitigation actions and adjustments to new financial circumstances. Additionally, CAR continues with the risk sub- committee that meets quarterly and reports back to the Board at each meeting with a review of the risk register. Financial Risk The key areas of risk are: The loss of a major funding source including the non-renewal of a funding contract or reduction in scope of funding provided; The inability to reduce costs pro rata to any reduction in funding without putting the core service at risk; Increased redundancy obligations as a consequence of lack of staff turnover., Any unexpected expenditure, especially related to employment; and An increase in working capital required if funding is not received in advance. The current advice grant received from Rutland County Council runs for 1 year to March 2026. The reserves have been Set at £125,000. Total free reserves at 31 March 2024 as set out in these accounts (excluding designatedlrestricted reserves) are £183,507. The Reserves Policy will be reviewed annually in tandem with the bureau's strategy and risk assessment processes. Principal Funding Sources Rutland County Council will continue to be the primary Sour of funding to the end of the current agreement, with additional funding coming from individuals and private foundations as well as funding from the Trussell Trust, and the 'For Rutland, fundraising team. The charity did not have any borrowings from either providers of funding or other sources at the balan sheet date.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Funds in Deficlt No funds were in defictt at the balance sheet date. Redundancy payments As part of the charty's restructuring to reduce overhead costs and ensure long tenn sustainability, it was necessary to make two staff roles redundant during the year. The total redundancy payments amounted to £20,014. The trustees recognise the contribution of the staff affected and are grateful for their service. Investment Policy The Charity has the power to invest monies as set out in its Articles of Association. Plans for future periods The trustees review plans for the future regularly at Board meetings and at an annual strategy review meeting. Its core aims and objectives remain as set out. Current plans include: Retain Citizens Advice Rutland as a Rutland based or anisation Retaining a local operation (with our own local telephone advice service) providing a blended service offering of face-to-faceltelephone advice remains our key priority. We will ensure wide access to advi SeNiS for all Rutland residents. Trusteelmember recruitment includin Fundraisin and Research and Cam ns Recruit trustees to achieve the objective of fundraising in light of the UnrtaintY of future funding from RCC. Promote the worth of R&C work to potential funders and appoint a new trustee with responsibility for R&C. Strate ic review of ServIS Explore working with other local offices to pool resources for advi. The Community Development Officerwill continue to promote the work of CAR to theVCS and the communty throughout the current year of the new VCS contract.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governing Document Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee known as Citizens Advice Rutland. The maximum liability of each member is limited to ten pounds. Rutland Citizens Advi Bureau is governed by its Articles of Association as amended in 2023. The Articles of Association provide for a maximum number of trustees of 15 and the minimum shall be 4. At 31 March 2025 the company had 17 members, 6 of whom were Trustees. Recruitmen( Appointment of Trustees Trustees are appointed in accordance with the Articles of Association. Trustees are recruited from those who have demonstrable interest in and commitment to the local community and the aims and objectives of the Charity. They will be required to demonstrate (or gain) the skills and experience identrfied as necessary to fulfil the roles. The Board of Trustees (the Board) and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) oversee the recruiknenuco-option of new board appointsnents. New trustees are required to undertake an application and interview prosS. A separate process agreed by the Board is followed for the election of the Chair. No other person or bodies external to the Charity were entitled to appoint persons to the Trustee Board. Organisational Structure Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau is govemed by a Board of Trustees which is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organisation and the policy of the Charity. The trustees carry the ultimate responsibility for the conduct of the Charity and for ensuring that it satisfies its legal and contractual obligations. Trustees meet, at a minimum, quarterly and delegate the day-to-day operation of the organisation to senior management. The Trustee Board is independent from management. Newly appointed trustees are provided with a comprehensive induction to CAR through the provision of training courses and mentoring by established trustees. Training continues throughout any trustee's appointment. Arrangements for setting pay and remuneration of key management personnel The Board of Trustees is responsible for defining the pay policy, including deciding upon the salary of the CEO. In considering remuneration the Trustees will take account of relevant information including: information received from the Citizens Advice national network; market infornation. the Charity's financial position. and public sector pay awards
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Citizens Advice Network Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau is a member of Citizens Advice, the operating name of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, which provides a framework for standards of advice and casework management as well as monitoring progress against these standards. Operating policies are independently determined by the Trustee Board of Rutland Citizens Advi Bureau in order to fulfil its charitable objectives and comply with the national membership requirements. Related parties The Charity co-operates and liaises with a number of other advisory services, local charities and Local Authority departments on behalf of clients.
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Report of the Directors and Trustees for the year ended 31 March 2025 Reference and administrative details Charity Name: Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Charity Registration No: 1107907 Company Registration No: 5287678 Finance Conduct Authority Authorisation No.. 617720 Registered Office.. 56 High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AL Chair.. Elizabeth Cooper Chief Executive Officer: Emma Jefferson Deputy Chief Executive Offir. Clare Bryan Bankers (for the period of the report): CAF Bank Limited, 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent. ME19 4JQ Independent Examiner: Azets Audit se[vis, Thorpe House, 93 Headlands, Kettering, Northants. NN15 6BL This report has been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practi - Accounting and reporting by Charities and in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, regime. The report of the trustees was approved by order of the board of trustees, as the company directors, on 23rd September 2025 and signed on the board's behalf by: beth iro ooper rustees Ch 10
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Independent Examiner's report to the Trustees of Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 March 2025, Nvhich are set out on pages 12 to 27. Responsibilities and basls of report As the charity 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 audiled under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your company's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Ad 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 examinerfs statement Since the company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confinn that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of Ihe Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wale8, which 18 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: 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 vievl 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 charrties preparirKJ their accounts in accordan with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102). I have no COnrnS and have come across no other matters in connection wfth the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Paul Tyler FCA Azets Audit servIs Thorpe Hou8e 93 Headlands Kettering Northamptonshire NN156BL 11
Rutland Citlzens Advice Bureau Statement of financial activities for the year ended 31 March 2025 Incorporating the Income and Expenditure Account Unrestricted Restricted funds funds Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Note Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Grants and contracts Other (including fundraising) Investment income 6,975 30,260 37,235 74,947 164,178 97,625 85,108 1,512 261,803 85,108 15,399 317,080 83,794 9,025 13,887 Total Income 185,040 214,505 399,545 484,846 Expenditure on: Raising funds Charitable activities Advice provision Grants allocat&J Service provision Other 24,749 30,932 55,681 47,960 99.907 223,231 323,138 338,581 24,338 24,338 56,658 Total Expendlture 148,994 254,163 403,157 443,199 Net incomel(expenditure} and net movoment in funds (39,658) (3,612) 41.647 Transfers between Funds (4,582) 4,582 Fund balances at 1 April 2024 14 184.552 192,438 376,990 335,343 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 14 216,016 157,362 373,378 376.990 There are no recognised gains or losses in the year, other than those included in the statement of financial activities. All income and expenditure derives from continuing operations. 12
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Balance Sheet a8 at 31 March 2025 Unrestricted Restrlcted Fund8 Funds Total 2025 Total 2024 Note Flxed Assets Tangible A&8ets 10 2,509 2,509 2,318 Current Assets Stock Debtors Short t8tm deposits Cash at bank and in hand 409 3.858 154,580 77,194 236,041 409 4,192 245.531 143,468 393,600 756 18.682 204.575 176,372 400,385 12 334 90,951 66,274 157.559 Creditors - amounts falling due within one year 13 22.534 197 22,731 25.713 Net Current A888ts 213 507 157,362 370,869 374,672 Net Assets 216.016 157,362 373,378 376,990 Represented by: Funds of the Charity Unrestricted funds General funds Designated funds 14 186,016 30,000 186.016 30,000 154,552 30,000 Restricted funds 157.362 157,362 192,438 216,016 157,362 373,378 376,990 For the year ending 31 March 2025 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476. The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act wilh respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts. These accounts have been prepared in accordan with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies, regime. The financi onth I staternents were approved by the Board on 23rd September 2025 and signed alf by: Eli&beth C oper- Chair of Trustees Chris Mortlock- Fina<rustee Company egistration No: Charity rfegistration No: 5287678 1107907 13
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Statement of Cash Flows for year ended 31 March 2025 Total 2025 Totsl 2024 Cash flows from operating activities Net incomel(expenditure) (3,612) 41,647 Adjustments for: Depreciation Interest Income Decreasel(increase) in stock (Increase)IDecrease in debtors (Decrease)Ilncrease in credilors Net cash provided byl{used in) operating aclivilies 2.486 (15,399) 347 14,490 2,982 4,670 4,832 (9,025) 150 (15,793) 4.226 17,585 Cash flows from investing acltlvites Purchase of fixed assets Interest receivable Net cash (used in)Iprovided by invesling adrvities (2,677) 15,399 12,722 9,025 9,025 Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period 8.052 26.610 Cash and cash equivalents at 1 April 2024 380,947 354,337 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March 2025 388,999 380,947 Components of cash and cash equivalents Short term deposits Cash al bank and in hand 245,531 204,575 176,372 380,947 388,999 14
Rutland Citizans Advica Bureau Notss to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 Accounting policies The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows: Basis of preparation The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practi applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and Generally ACpted Accounting Practi. Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise ststed in the relevant accounting policy note(s). The financial statements are prepared in Sterling, which is the functional currency of the company, and are rounded to the nearest £. The company's accounts present information about it as an individual undertaking. b) Legal status of the Charlty The charity is a private company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £10 per member of the charity. The registered office address is 56 High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AL. Going concern At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate reSoUrS to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concem basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. d) Judgements and key sources of estirnation uncertainty In applying the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to rnake judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying value of assets and liabilities. Although actual results may differ from estimates of this type, in the opinion of the trustees, this is unlikely to result in material adjustments to the carrying value of assets and liabilities. 15
Rutland Cltlzens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 Accounting policies (continued) Incoming resources i) Donations and grants receivable Grants made to finance the activities of the charity are credited to the income and expenditure account in the period to which they relate. Income from donations or grants is recognised when there is eviden of entitlement to the gift, reIpt is probable and its amount can be measured reliably. Bank interest Bank interest is included in the income and expenditure account on reipt. Other income Sales of services are included in the income and expenditure account in the period to which they relate. Other income, including donations, gifts and covenants are included as they were received. iv) Volunteern The value of seNices provided by volunteers is not incorporated into these financial statements. Deferred income Grants and fees that are received in advan of delivering services required by performance-related conditions are accounted for as a liability and released to income in the reporting period in which conditions that limit recognition are met. Legacies Legacies are recognised on the earlier of the date the charity is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and the charity notified that a distribution will be made, or when a distribution is received from the estate. Legacies are only recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities when it is considered probable that a distribution will be reiVed and that distribution can be measured reliably. When the criteria for income recognition have not been met, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset. Resources expended All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis. All expenditure directly related to the provision of advice services is included within charitable expenditure. Other costs incurred have been allocated between fundraising, advi and administration as appropriate. Where such costs 16
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 Accounting policies (continued) relate to more than one functional cost category they have been split on an estimate of time or income, as appropriate. g) Fixed assets and depreciation Fixed assets are included at cost. Items are capitalised rf their value is over £1,000. Depreciation is charged on a straight line basis on the costs of the assets over their estimated useful lives as follows.. Fixtures & fittings: Remaining period of lease: maximum 6 years 10 years 3 years Equipment: Computers: h) stocks Stock is recognised at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, those overheads that have been incurred in bringing stock to its present location and condition. i) Debtors Trade and other debtors are measured at the transaction price (including transaction costs). Where the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, the transaction is recognised at the present value of the future cashflows discou nted at a market rate of interest. i) Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks and other highly-liquid short-term investments with a short maturity of 3 months or less. k) Creditors Creditors 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 can be measured or estimated reliably. Trade and other creditors are measured at the transaction pri. Where the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, the transaction is recognised at the present value of the future cashflows discounted at a market rate of interest. 17
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statsments for the year ended 31 March 2025 Accounting policies (continued) i) Fund accounting Unrestricted funds are donations and other income generated for the objects of the charity without specified purposes. These can be used in accordan with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees. Income received for the restricted purposes is included in a separate restricted fund against which appropriate expenditure is allocated. Designated funds are allocated out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes. The use of such funds is at the trustees, discretion. m) Leases Rental costs under operating leases are charged to the statement of financial activities in equal amounts over the period of the leases. Taxation The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. Pension The charity operates a defined contribution group personal pension plan for its employees. Payments are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period in which they are incurred. p) Termination benefits Tennination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide temiination benefits. q) VAT The charity has been able to recover VAT in accordance with the agreed partial exemption method. 18
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to tha financial ststsments for the year ended 31 March 2025
)24 6,975 37.235 44,947 3),o(x) 74,947 6,975 37,235 irwrre and1gw.es S £37,235 (2024: £74,94n cfj £6,975,V4BS unrestri&1 (2024: £35,401) aTrJ £3),2eov4BS restr1 (2024: £39,546). 3 inc(xrE fr(xn ChaiitaNe ktsvitses 10,IJ)) 150.(XX) 4,178 75, 19),CKX) 51,581 LcA21 AUtIlty grats 150,1JX) 51,803 47,625 FurxlrasirvJ e 85,1( 85,1( 78,787 1E4,178 182,733 346,911 4CM).874 The irK(Jre frn dHitaAe VRS £346,911 (2024: £4CD,874) of vknith £164,178 unrest1 (2024: £180,CX)n ajxl £182,733 restri& (2ff24: £220,W). 13,887 1,512 15,393 9,25 INXx fr(Th InveStn vas £15, (2024: £9,025) of £13,7 Lnrestri(tsJ (2tr24: £7,211) arKI £1.512 restnC1 (2024: £1,814). 19
Rutland Citizen8 Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 S Expenditure Other dlrect costs Dlrect Staffing Support CO8ts 2025 2024 Cost of raising funds other fundraising 33,495 16,463 5,723 55,681 47,960 Charitable Actlvltles Advice provision Partner funding Grants aiiocated Grant service provision Other 266,860 10,683 45.5g5 323,138 338,581 3,552 54.870 321,141 27,146 403,157 443 199 Total expenditure was £403,157 (2024.. £443,199) of which £148,994 was unrestricted (2024: £180,432) and £254,163 was restricted (2024: £262,767). 6 Charitable activites 2025 2024 Staff costs SuE>contractors VCF costs CitA Innovation costs VCF Mapping Other grants Other direct costs Albjcated support and governance costs (note 7) 287,646 316,854 2,163 8,520 3,508 9,126 12,707 347,476 395,239 Expenditure on charitable activities was £347,476 (2024.. £395,239) of vthich £124,245 was unrestricted (2024: £171,479) and £223,231 was restricted (2024.. £223,760). 7 Analysis of support and governance costs Support Governance 2025 2024 Management costs Office, IT and communications Premises costs Legal and professional fees Independent examination services AGM costs 4,382 14,282 25,075 4.387 14.282 25.075 7.780 2.814 532 54,870 5,795 17,712 22,768 5,557 4,563 275 56,670 7,780 2,814 532 11,131 43,739 Analysed beeen Cost of raising funds Charitsble activities 4.562 1,161 9.970 11,131 5,723 49 147 54,870 3.626 43,739 56,670 20
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to tho financial ststsments for the year ended 31 March 2025 8 Net incomel(expendlture) for the year 2025 2024 This is ststed after charging: Depreciation Operating costs of leases, properties & machines Independent Examinetrs remuneration Independent ex8mination Other seNices 2,486 10,602 4,832 10,516 2,814 2,227 4.563 1,678 9 Information regarding Trustees and Employees 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Pension costs 292,302 18,014 10,825 321,141 300,205 25,903 12.403 338.511 The w4erage number of employees was: 2025 No 12 2024 No 13 The average number of employees, on a fulltime equivalent, analysed by function was.. 2025 No 2024 No Charitable purposes Fundraising & publicity Management and administration of charity No employee received emoluments in excess of £60,000. There was no trustees, remuneration or other benefrts for the year ended 31 March 2025 or 31 March 2024. No trustees received benefits under any pension scheme. No travel costs were paid to members of the Trustee Board in the year {2024.' £nil). Total remuneration paid to key management personnel in the year was £97,182 (2024.. £95,201). The bureau paid £3,620 in the year ended 31 March 2025 (2024: £3,381) for various insuranca sepdices, including professional indemnity cover. Wages and salaries include redundancy payments made to truo employees during the year to 31 March 2025 totalling £20,014 (2024.. £nil). 21
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statsments for the year ended 31 March 2025 10 Tangible assets Fixtures. flttings and equipment Computer Equipment Total Cost At 1 April 2024 Additions At 31 March 2025 5,947 13.689 2,677 16,366 19,636 2,677 22,313 5,947 Depreclatlon At 1 April 2024 Charge for year At 31 March 2025 5,555 392 5,947 11,763 2,094 13,857 17,318 2,486 19,804 Net Book Value At 31 March 2025 2,509 2,509 At 31 March 2024 392 1.926 2.318 11 Stocks 2025 2024 Stamp stock 409 409 756 756 12 Debtors 2025 2024 Value Added Tax Other Debtors Prepayments and Accrued Income 3,082 12,500 22
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 13 Creditors - amounts falling due within one year Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals Taxation and social security Value Added Tax Deferred Income Grants deposited in advance 2025 2024 4,147 4,913 5,478 6,578 1,614 892 8,502 8,441 6,148 1,730 22,730 25,713 Movement on deferred income account Deferred income brought forward Income deferred in the year Amount released in the year Amount released from previous year Deferred income carried forward 1,730 4,429 1,730 1,730 4,429 1,730 Income of £1.730 was deferred at 31 March 2024 as it related to income from the Trussell Trust reiVed for services that had not been provided by 31 March 2024. 23
Rutland Citizens Advlce Bureau Notss to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 14 Funds At 1 April Incomlng Outgolng 2024 Re80urces Rosources Transfer botwoon funds At 31 March 2025 Year ended 31 March 2025 Restrfcted funds.. For Rutland VCF Trussell TrusVFood Bank CitA Innovation Advice Donation Deprivation Advice Donation RCC AVM CitA Cost of Living Total Restricted Funds 109,662 7,815 118,880 50,OLK) 22,995 24,630 (102,631) (46,233) (24,114) (29,810) (34,139) (10,621) {6,615) 123,911 11.582 1,119 10,104 40,000 7,158 17,699 4.924 5,861 3,463 11.084 192,438 214,505 254,163 4,582 157,362 Unrestricted Funds General Funds Jeff Ward Fund Totsl Unrestrict8d Funds 154,552 30,000 184552 185,040 (148,994) (4,582) 186,016 30,000 216,016 148,994 4,582 Total Funds 376,990 399,545 403,157 373,378 Net transfers to restricted funds represent transfers from unrestricted funds of £4,582 to finance deficits on restricted funds. At 1 April 2023 Incoming Resourc88 Outgolng R88ourc08 Transfers between funds At 31 March 2024 Year ended 31 March 2024 Restricted Funds For Rutland VCF VCF Mapping Trussell TrusVFood Bank CitA Innovation Advice Donation Deprivation Advice Donation RCC AVM CitA Cost of Living Totsl Restricted Fund5 116,028 13.535 3,251 110,147 50,000 20.499 26,951 24.630 (116,511) (55,720) (26,038) (33,961) (14,526) 109,662 7.815 2,288 7,010 10.104 40.000 7.158 17.699 40,000 10,000 20,000 (2,842) (2,301) 10,963 183 775 95 262 227 262 767 192438 Unrestricted Furds General Funds Jeff Ward Fund Total Unrèstricted Funds 151.568 192,619 (180,432) (9,203) 154,552 30,000 180,432 9,203 222619 184,552 151,568 Totsl Funds 335,343 484 846 443,199 376,990 Net transf8rs to restrict8d funds represents transfers from unrestricted funds of £9,298 to finance deficits on restrided funds and £95 from unrestrtcted to restricted funds. 24
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Nots8 to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 15. Purpose of Re8trictsd funds The specific pUoseS for which the restricted funds are to be applied are as follows: For Rutland - This fund was set up to raise funds specifically to benefit the Rutland community. The focus is on the provision of services for those living with cancer, dementia or other long-term illnesses or conditions. VCF - Provision of Voluntary and Community Sector Infrastructure Support in Rutland funded by Rutland County Council. Trussell TrustlFood Bank - Grants given by Trussell Trust and Rutland Food Bank to provide high quality advi on income maximisation to those accessing the food support, who are identified as being at risk of destitution. Advice Donation - A donation made to fund general advice provision over the coming years as funding from other SoUrS declines. CitA Innovation - A grant from National Citizens Advi to improve CAR'S service delivery within small rural communities. Deprivation Advice Donation (from 2023124) - a donation made by an individual towards the costs of providing advice to those attending the Rutland Foodbank which will be fully spent during 2025126. RCC AVM (from 2023124) - A grant from Rutland County Council to help fund the provision of a Mental Health Prevention and Resilience project in Rutland. This was put on hold during the year and will recommence in 2024125 and 2025126. Designated Funds: Jeff Ward Fund - for adviser salaries and gaps in existing future funding. 25
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 16. Analysis of net assets between funds Comparative information for the year ended 31 March 2024 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total 2024 Fixed assets Stock Debtors Short term deposits Cash at bank and in hand Creditors due within one year 2,318 756 2,692 144,501 53,776 19.491 184,552 2,318 756 18,682 204,575 176,372 25,713 376,990 15,990 60,074 122,596 6,222 192,438 17. Financial commitments Capital Commitments At 31 March 2025 there were no capital commitments. Operating lease commitments At 31 March 2025 the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows: 2025 2024 Within one year Between two and five years Later than 5 years 9,861 7,500 10,435 17,361 17,361 27,796 26
Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau Notes to the financial ststements for the year ended 31 March 2025 18. Related party transactions Rutland Citizens Advi Bureau is a member of Citizens Advice, the operating name of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, which provides a framework for stsndards of advice and casework management as well as monitoring progress against these standards. Operating policies are independently detennined by the Trustee Board of Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau in order to fulfil its charitable objectives and comply with the national membership requirements. There were transactions between Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau and Citizens Advi in relation to insuran, information ServIS and, as explained in note 14, grant funding. There have been no other related party transactions during the year. 19. Pension costs A pension scheme for employees is operated on a defined contributions basis. The scheme is open to all employees at any time. The charity contributes 4% of pensionable earnings and the employee a minimum % of gross salary to meet statutory requirements. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The fund administrators are Aviva. The pension cost shown in the accounts forthe year represents contributions payable by the charity and amounted to £10,825 (2024: £12,403). There were contributions of £nil (2024: £1,929.51) payable or outstanding at the year end. 27