2024-03-31-accounts - Home-Start Merton

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ME STIRT Merton ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2023-2024

MISSION STATEMENT

Home-Start Merton is a local community network of trained volunteers and expert support, helping children pre-birth and up to 5 years. We help families through their challenging times. We are there for parents and children when they need us the most because childhood can’t wait.

WHO WE ARE:

TRUSTEES: Danny Lawrence (Chairperson) Adam Flacks (Deputy Chairperson) Diane Holmes (Deputy Chairperson and Treasurer) Vikrant Bhuskute Manuel Boger Marian Ridley Faye Brann Henrietta Jenner. Leave date: 31.12.23. Company Secretary: Sharon Ashby

STAFF:

Sharon Ashby - Managing Director Debbie Magee – Senior Family Support Co-ordinator Madeleine Jarratt – Family Support Co-ordinator. Leave date: 7.12.23. Heather Ford – Business Support Administrator

REGISTERED CHARITY NAME: Home-Start Merton REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 05359862 REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1108937 REGISTERED OFFICE: All Saints Resource Centre, 44 All Saints Road, Wimbledon, SW19 1BX

T: 020 8646 6044

E: admin@homestartmerton.org

W: www.homestartmerton.co.uk

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER: BANKERS: Kana Veluppillai CAF Bank Limited KV & Co. 25 Kings Hill Avenue 18 Morton Gardens Kings Hill Wallington West Malling Surrey ME19 4JQ SM6 8EX

WHAT WE DO

GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

Home-Start Merton is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 10 February 2005. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up, members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1.

The governance is vested in our Board of Trustees who have six scheduled meetings each year and additional meetings on other occasions as business requires. The board is responsible for the charity’s long-term objectives, for its strategic priorities and for providing overall financial management and control. The day-to-day management of the charity is delegated to the Managing Director of the scheme who reports to the Board of Trustees. Our Board of Trustees for 2022-2023 was made up of eight members who bring with them a range of skills and experience. Under the terms of the Articles of Association, board members are appointed at the Annual General Meeting. Under the Articles, one third must retire in rotation at each AGM. Trustees who retire are eligible to be re-appointed at the same AGM. The Trustees may co-opt any person to be appointed as a Trustee during the year and that person will hold office until the next AGM.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The objectives of Home-Start Merton are to safeguard, protect, and preserve the good health, both mental and physical, of children and their parents. It also aims to prevent emotional and physical abuse of such children. Home-Start Merton believes that:

Children need a happy and secure childhood.
Parents play the key role in giving their children a good start in life.
Every parent should have the support they need to give their children the best possible start in life, helping them to achieve their full potential.
The best people to help parents are other parents, who have themselves had experience of bringing up children and are able to provide the kind of support that only another parent who has lived experience can.

The service offered by Home-Start Merton is provided by a team of trained and supervised parent volunteers who give tailored family support to families in their own homes, specific to their individual needs supported by our trained staff.

STANDARDS AND METHODS OF PRACTICE

Home-Start works with families who are experiencing difficulties and who have at least one child under the age of five. Home-Start is an independent voluntary organisation which works towards the increased confidence and independence of the family by:

Offering support and practical assistance.
Visiting families in their own homes where the dignity and identity of everyone can be respected and protected.
Reassuring parents that difficulties bringing up children are not unusual and encouraging enjoyment in family life.

Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed; the approach is flexible to take account of diverse needs.
Encouraging the parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing for the ultimate benefit of their own children.
Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships and to effectively use the support and services available within the community.

RISK MANAGEMENT

The Board of Trustees regularly undertakes a detailed review of our risk management procedures to ensure that appropriate systems are in place to mitigate those risks. The Trustees consider that a major risk is one which has a high likelihood of occurring and would, if it occurred, have a severe impact on operational performance. The Trustees expect all staff and volunteers, when engaging in any activity on behalf of Home-Start Merton, to consider the risks posted and to act in accordance with the risk management procedures. Whilst it is important that the Board of Trustees remain risk alert, they do not wish to be averse to taking reasonable risks as part of their strategy to achieve the objects of the organisation. All key policies within the organisation are reviewed regularly and updated as appropriate to reflect any legislative changes and the latest developments and thinking in relation to best practice.

TRUSTEES

Trustee application forms are available on request. All applications require approval by the Trustees. Trustees can decline an application if they feel that the application is prejudicial to the ethos of the organisation.

CHAIR AND MANAGING DIRECTOR’S REPORT

This has been a year of struggle for those who need support the most. The costof-living crisis has made it harder for families to make ends meet; the numbers of parents and children that are struggling with mental health have increased; and the level of need around special education and disabilities of both parents and children is rising. The number of families facing complex issues and the demand for our services is increasing. This has made what we do even more important but also stretched our current resources as far as they will go.

Our work endures thanks to our continued partnerships with The Dorus trust, The Taylor Family Foundation, The Generations Foundation, John Lewis and Waitrose, Wimbledon District Nurses Midwifery and Benevolent Society (WDNMBS), Wimbledon High School for Girls, Kings College Junior school, AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club), Shona Moth, who led a team of volunteers for our 30[th] anniversary ball and our regular donators. Thank you all. We cannot have the impact we do in Merton without the support these philanthropic trusts and doners provide.

However, resources continue to be spread very thinly and so this year, we have sought to bring renewed vigour to our fundraising strategy. Ruth Seymour, fundraising consultant worked with us to help us with a concise fundraising strategy and to support us to recruit a fundraising manager to help improve our financial situation and to help to secure our sustainability. Alongside this our new trustee Faye Brann has put together a new marketing strategy and her experience and communication skills are a real coup and wonderful addition to the existing skills and experience on the board.

There have been some losses. During 2023/24 we said goodbye to Henrietta Jenner, Trustee and Treasurer for Home-Start for 12 years, Madeleine Jarratt, Family Support Coordinator for 3 years and Debbie Magee, Senior Family Support Coordinator for 7 years. Our Little Steps group in Wimbledon, closed in December 2023, due to staff capacity, but in 2024/25 we aim to reopen this group with new staff in place. Our Little Stars group in Mitcham, has continued to thrive and our free counselling service continues to benefit the families who need it the most.

There have also been successes. Our annual day trip to Littlehampton, funded by WDNMBS, was a triumph and without too much rain, and our 30[th] anniversary ball took place at the AELTC led by Shona and her team including Julie, Kellyann, Andrew, Yuzi, Kate and Lisa. The evening was sponsored by Wimbledon Homes, CC Construction, Sean McInnes Sports Coaching, Peacock & Co Solicitors, Belderbos Landscapes, Elite Private Fitness & SKIN by Anel Lamine. Together they helped to raise over £48,000.00.

Thank you to all the volunteers, staff, Trustees, doners, funders and supporters who have helped Home-Start Merton provide support to families within Merton this year. You have all made a difference.

Danny Lawrence, Chair of Trustees Sharon Ashby, Managing Director

FAMILIES SUPPORTED

Families Supported 2023-2024

----- Start of picture text -----
80
70 67
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Families Supported
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This year, Home-Start Merton has supported 66 parents and 125 children. Due to the nature of the support Home-Start Merton provides, older children and other adults who live in the home are also indirectly supported.

Children and Parents Supported 2023-2024

----- Start of picture text -----
2
66 59
2
30
32
Unborn at Referral 0-2 Years 3-5 Years
6+ Other Parents
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SUPPORT TO FAMILIES

Home-Start Merton offers counselling and group support in addition to the core service of home visiting support. Many families are supported by all three

services. Group support has helped support families who would otherwise be placed on a waiting list or who have different needs to those requiring a home visiting volunteer.

----- Start of picture text -----
How Families were Supported
2023-2024
19 19
18 14 15
12
6
0
----- End of picture text -----

In 2023, Home-Start Merton delivered 2 groups, one in the West of the borough and one in the East. Home-Start’s Happy Steps closed in November due to staff capacity. Home-Start’s Little Stars Group began in March 2023. The group runs every week on a Wednesday, 11am-1pm, during term time. It provides a safe environment which encourages socialisation, peer support, activities, and a lunch. The group is for parents and children from pregnancy up to 5 years old. See the graph below.

Home-Start's Little Stars

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20
26
Parents Children
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In addition to the core service of home visiting support, referrals for additional support have been completed as evidenced below. Digital inclusion through the provision of Chromebooks to families, tablets and mobile telephones have been provided to volunteers through Home-Start’s partnership with BT.

----- Start of picture text -----
Extra Support to Families
8
8
6
6
4
4 3 3
2
2 1
0
Merton GrowbabyLittle VillageDons Local ActionMerton Community FridgeProviding Household EquipmentHousing Support Digital Inclusion
----- End of picture text -----

REFERRALS

The graph below shows the needs of families identified at referral. The needs have risen significantly from last year, particularly around coping with mental health, self-esteem, and coping with loneliness and isolation. Often, increased need is identified during an initial visit with the family.

Needs Identified at Referral

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Other 11
The Day-to-Day Running of the House 19
Stress Caused by Conflict in the Family 18
Parents Own Learning Needs 1
Parents Confidence and Self Esteem 40
Managing the Household Budget 21
Managing Child's Behaviour 24
Coping with Own Physical Health 18
Coping with Own Mental Health 55
Coping with Loneliness and Social Isolation 69
Coping with Extra Work Caused by Multiple Births/Children Under 5 22
Coping with Child's Physical Health 2
Coping with Child's Mental Health 6
Being Involed in Child Development 26
Access to Other Services 25
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
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Families that are referred to Home-Start Merton often have multiple circumstances which can be counted multiple times per referral. Comparable to needs, we have seen an increase in families being referred with diagnosed mental health difficulties and increased cases of domestic abuse.

Circumstances of Referred Families 2023-2024

2 2 12 8 3 57 37 18 2 7 Unsuitable Housing Refugee/Asylum Seeker 1 or More Parents Employed Debt/Financial Insecurity Lone Parent Domestic Abuse Disabilities No Recourse to Public Funds Mental Health Issues Young or Teenage Pregnancy

The graph below indicates those from whom we receive referrals. Other Health includes mostly Social Prescribers that work within GP surgeries.

Who Refers to Home-Start Merton

9[12] 22 7 1 7 5 6 30 7 2 5 Children Centre/Family Hub Education Setting Family Support Services GP Health Visitor Internal Network Mental Health Services Maternity (Midwife Team) Other Health Perinatal Mental Health Service Self Referrals Social Services Social Prescriber Other Health

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept all referrals that we receive. Often the families we are unable to accept do not meet our criteria. Referrals that did not lead to support but were either signposted elsewhere or received some guidance/informal support totalled 26 for the year 2023-2024.

Referrals Not Supported 2023-2024

----- Start of picture text -----
Unable to Accept Referral due to Staff 8
Capacity
No Further Engagement after Minimal
12
Staff Support or Initial Visit
Inappropriate Referral - Interpretor
2
Needed
Inappropriate Referral - Social Care
7
Involvement
Inappropriate Referral - Out of Area 5
Inappropriate Referral - Complex Needs 1
Inappropriate Referral - Child over 5 1
Family Not Rady/Declined Support 2
Family Not eligible 6
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
----- End of picture text -----

VOLUNTEERS

Our core service of Home-visiting volunteer support provides emotional and practical within the family’s homes. The average length of support is 1 year. The 3 volunteers who help at group are part of the 23 active volunteers.

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW TREASURERS REPORT

On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to present the Treasurer’s Report for Home-Start Merton (HSM) for the financial year 1[st] April 2023 to 31[st] March 2024. A Statement of Financial Activities and Balance Sheet for the financial year 2023/24 is shown within this Annual Report.

Income Review 2023/24

HSM’s total income for the year was £124,282. HSM received a total of £69,329 from its charitable funders and the Board of Trustees is extremely grateful to its funders for their continued generosity during this year and wishes to thank the following:

The Generations Foundation
The Taylor Family Foundation
The Dorus Trust
Wimbledon District Nursing and Midwifery Benevolent Society
London Community Foundation
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities
The Paul Strank Charitable Trust
Home-Start UK
Waitrose
John Lewis
The NHS

The remainder of HSM income came from gifts and donations, with a small amount in addition from returns on investments. It is clear that the cost-of-living challenges continue to impact the charity’s ability to generate sufficient interest in fundraising events to make them viable. The exception this year was in relation the HSM 30[th] Anniversary Ball, the success of which was entirely due to the hard work of dedicated HSM volunteers for which HSM is enormously grateful. In addition, the Board also wishes to thank all the private individuals who regularly contributed towards fundraising and to those friends and supporters who continue to support the charity with much appreciated donations.

Expenditure Review 2023/24

Total resources spent were £189,238 (previous year £182,720). Our experienced and dedicated staff are our greatest assets, and a large proportion of expenditure is on staff salaries and associated employment costs which amounted to £150,678. The increase in expenditure on salaries during the year was due to the decision to award a fair pay increase to all staff. A pension deficit of £8,658 (down from £22,533 last year) remains and which the Board is committed to continuing to reduce in accordance with a recommended plan.

Additional expenditure was committed during the year to develop a Fundraising strategy in order to make a step-change impact on our ability to raise funds from all sources. HSM considers the recommendations from this exercise as being incredibly valuable will form the basis of our approach to fundraising in the challenging but interesting financial year to come.

Reserves & Investment Strategy

The trustees have set a reserves policy, reviewed annually, which requires that reserves be maintained at a level which ensures that HSM’s core activities can

continue during a period of unforeseen difficulty. The trustees agree that 6 months normal running costs which equates to approximately £100,000.

Approximately half of those reserves are kept as cash in the banks, the remainder of reserves are invested on a medium-term, but accessible basis, in a discretionary portfolio managed by Charles Stanley Investment Fund. The investments are in medium-high risk investment classes with the objective being balanced, to produce a balance between capital growth and income. Looking to the future, the charity also has renewed insight into funding that we may become eligible to apply for, given our reduced reserves.

The staff and trustees remain committed to improving and diversifying income streams, improving the ease by which donations may be made, increasing visibility of the charity within the Borough, increasing engagement with the number of friends and supporters of the charity so that it remains a going concern; it is a sustainable charity able to continue to provide a much-needed service to the community.

The Board would like to take this opportunity to thank our independent Examiner, Mr K Velupillai of K V & Co. for reviewing the HSM accounts which have been approved by the Board of Trustees.

Diane Holmes Treasurer

The following summarised accounts are an extract from the Reports and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2024. The full accounts can be obtained from Home-Start Merton, All Saints Resource Centre, 44 All Saints Road, Wimbledon, SW19 1BX. Copies of the certified accounts will be lodged with the Charities Commission and Companies House. You are welcome to inspect the

documents at our office, please contact the Business Support Administrator for an appointment.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Thanks to the kind generosity and support of our funders, fundraisers, and those who give their support in kind, we have been able to help many local families over the last year, providing a reliable, empathetic source of connection and understanding during a challenging time it has been for so many. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us over the

The Dorus Trust
The Taylor Family Foundation
The Generations Foundation
Wimbledon Foundation
Wimbledon High School
Kings High School
Wimbledon District Nursing & Midwifery Benevolent Society
Paul Strank Charitable Trust
London Community Foundation
John Lewis & Partners
Amita Kronsten
Gregory Kronsten
Sylvia Marland
Mike Short
Barbara Cluer
Sue Kirby
Simon Lloyd
Sally Cunliffe
Lisa Wyatt
Health Champions (DLUHC MVSC)
David Rhodes
Waitrose & Partners
Ghana Nurses Association SW
London

last year and helped us to provide such vital support to families.

Together with those listed above, we are indebted to the many donors whose generosity and ongoing support through this year has been especially important in enabling us to respond quickly to families in need. Thank you.

Finally, without the support of the following people, we would not be able to support our families. They are our home-visiting volunteers, trustees, and staff:

Mary  Yuzi  Jenny
Rebecca  Katie  Sue  Lucy  Jen  Silvia  Bronte  Annette  Shona  Vikrant  Silvia  Mariya  Debbie  Natasha  Nicholas  Diane  Iris  Judith  Emma  Lucy  Lisa  Lesley  Silvia  Manuel  Marian  Danny  Sharon  Madeleine  Adam  Heather

The Doru 3 cS A S508 a (C):N : s sass 15 Trust

Registered Charity Number 1108937 Registered Company Number 5359862 HOME-START MERTON REPORTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2024

HOME-START MERTON Report and accounts Contents Page Charity and Company information Trustees, Report Independent Examiner's report Slalemenl of FinanGial Activities Balance sheet Notes to the accounts Detailed Statement of Financial Activities 12

HOME-START MERTON Company Information Directors D Lawrence A Flacks D Holmes H Jenner M Boger V Bhuskute M Ridley F Brann Chair Deputy Chair Deputy Chair & Treasurer Resigned 3111212023 Appointed 0510312024 Secretary S P Ashby Accountants KV&CO Chartered Management Accountants 18 Morton Gardens Wallington Surrey SM6 8EX Bankers CAF Bank Limited 25 Kings Hill Avenue Kings Hill Wesl Malling Kent ME194JQ Registered office All S8inls Resource Centre 44 All Saints Road Wimbledon London SW19 1 BX Registered Charity number 1108937

HOME-START MERTON The report of the trustees Introduction for the year ended 31 March 2024 The trustees present their annual report and accounts for the year ended 31st March 2024. Name, registered office and constitution of the charity The full name of the charity is Home-slart Merton. The legal registration details are Date of incorporation Company Registration Number The Registered Office is Charity Registration Number The telephone number is 1 Oth February 2005 5359862 All Saints Resource Centre, 44 All Saints Road, London SW19 1BX 1108937 0208 646 6044 Objectives and Activities of the Charity A summary of the objects of the charity as set out In Its governing document. The principal activity during the year was to support families with young children living within the London Borough of Merton. Public benefit that Is provided by the charity To safeguard, protect and preserve the good health, both mental and physical of children and parents. To prevent cruelty lo or mallrealment of children. To relieve sickness, poverty and need amongst children and parents of children. To promote the education of the public in better standards of childcare within the area of Merton and its environs. Achievements and Performance of the Charity Structure, Governance and Management Nature of the Governing Document and constitution of the charlty The results for the period, and the charity's financial position at the end of the period are shown in the attached financial statements. The Charity is Company Limited by Guarantee which is incorporated in United Kingdom on 10 February 2005 was formed for charitable purpose. The liability of its members is limited to a guarantee of £1 each. The companies governing documents arè ils memorandum and articles of association. The company is established lo further those purposes which are recognis8d as charitablè and the registered charity number is 1108937. The methods adopted for the recruitment and appointment of new trustees Home-start Merton recruits trustees who demonstrate interest in valuing the family and following recommendations made in respect of people with particular skills and Oxpertise in working with children and families, or the voluntary sector. All new trustees receive an induction pack of information about the work of Home-slart Merton and how it operates, and guidance as to their responsibility as Gharity trustees and company directors. Induction and training of new board members is delegated to the scheme Manager in consullalion with the Chair. New members also receive infom12tion about Home-start UK including a copy of the signed agreement. The major rlsks to which the charity is exposed and reviews and systems to mitigate risks The Irustees have examined the major stralegic, business and operational risks which the charity faces and confirm that systems have been established lo enable regular reports to be produced so that the necessary steps can be taken to manage and minimise risks.

HOME-START MERTON The report of the trustees Financial Review Policies on reserves for the year ended 31 March 2024 The trustees have examined the requirement for free reserves, which are those unrestricted funds not invested in fixed assets, not designated for specific purposes or otherwise committed. The trustees have sel a reserves policy which requires.. reserves are maintained at a level which ensures that Horne-start's core activity could continue during a period of unforeseen difficulty a proportion of reserves are maintained in a readily realisable form. Having considered the risk. activity and commitments af the organisalion Trustees have agreed that the scheme need to retain a level of a minimum of 6 months running costs which equates to approximately £ 100,000. This policy is reviewed annually by the board of Trustees. Transactions and Financial position The financial statements are set out on pages 7 10 13. The financial statements have been prepared implementing the 2005 Revision of the Statement of Recommended Practice ISORPI for Accounting and Reporting by Charities issued by the Charity Commission for England and Wales and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard IFRS1021 issued on 16 July 2014. The Statement of Financial Activities show nel outgoing resources (deficit) for the year of a revenue nature of £42,418 (prior year net outgoing resources of £115.0861. The total reserves al the year end, sland at £390,002 {prior year £ 478,7071. Free unreslricled liquid reserves is in surplus and amount8d lo £410,212 (prior year surplus £432,420) The members of the Board of Trustees of the Charity during the year ended 31st March 2023 were . D Lawrence (Chairl A Fracks {Depuly Chairl D Homes (Deputy Chair & Treasurer) H Jenner IResigned 31112120231 M Boger V Bhuskute M Ridley F Brann {Appointed 05103120241 Trustees of the charity, and their responsibilities include all the responsibilities of directors under the Companies Acts and of trustees under the Charities Acts. The directorsllrustees are all members of the charity. The members of the Board of Trustees of the Charity at the date of the report and accounts were approved were:. M Boger V Bhuskvte F Brann M Ridley D Lawrence D Holmes A Flacks

HOME-START MERTON The report of the trustees Investment Policy.. for the year ended 31 March 2024 The assets should be managed to achieve growth, of both capital and income, from an investment portfolio with the best financial return with an acceptable level of risk. Withdrawals from the investments are made to provide a source of income for Home Start Merton to cover situations where there is an operational deficit and lo ensure the continuity of Home Start Merton's charitable purposes. -The assets can be invested widely according to the general power of investment and should be diversified by assets class and by security. Assets classes could include cash, bonds, equities, investment funds, property and any other assets that are deemed suitable for the charity. The Trustees require ethical cansideralions lo be taken into account in the choice of investments. Direct investments in companies predominately involved with the production of alcohol, gambling activities and the provision of domestic sub-prime lending are not acceptable. Independent Examiner K Veluppillai ACMA, CGMA,ACPA KV&CO Chartered Management Accountants 18 Morton Gardens Wallington Surrey SM6 8EX Statement of Directors, and Trustees, Responsibilities The Charities Acts and the Companies Acts require the Board of trustees lo prepare financial slalements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the stale of affairs of thè charity as at the end of the financial year and of the surplus or deficit of the Gharity. In preparing those financial statements the Board is required lo select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently., make judgements and eslimales that are reasonable and prudent., and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is Inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. stale whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommendad praolice have been followed subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial slalements., The trustees are also responsible for maintaining adequate accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy al any time the financial position of the charity and which are sufficient lo show and explain the charity's transactions and enable them lo ensure that the financial stslements comply with the Companies Act 2006 and comply with regulations made under thé Charities Act. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hen for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees are also responsible for the contents of the trustees, report, and the responsibility of the independent examiner in relation lo the trustees, report is limited to examining the report and ensuring that on the face of the report, there are no inconsistencies with the figures disclosed in the financial slalemenls. Method of preparation of accounts These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small cornpanies regime. This report was approved by the board of trustees on 1812024. S P Ashby Company Secretary

HOME-START MERTON Report of the Independent Examiner to the trustees on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2024 I report on the financial statements of the Charity on pages 7 to 13 for the year ended 31 March 2024 which have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 1993 and with the Financial Reporting Standard {FRS102), as modified by the Slalemenl of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting issued by the Charity Commissioners for England & Wales, effective April 2005 as modified in May 2008. (The SORP), under the historical cost convenlion and the accounting policies set out on page 10. ResDective resDonsibilities of trustees and examiner As described on page 4, the Charity's trustees, who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements. The trustees are satisfied that the audit requirement of Section 43121 of the Charities Act 1993 Ilhe AGI) does not apply and that the accounts do not require an audit in accordance with Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006 and that no member or members have requested an audit pursuant lo section 476 of the Companies Act 20Q6, and that there is no requirement in the governing document or constitution of the Charity for the conducting of an audit. As a consequence, the trustees have elected that the financial statements be subj8cI to independent examination. Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law, or otherwise, and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to'.- a) examine the accounts under section 43 of the Act., and., b) lo follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 4317){b) of the Act; Basis of opinion and scope of work undertaken I conducted my examination in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners for England & Wales setting out the duties of an independent examiner issued by the Charity Comrnissioners under section 43(7llb) of the Act) in relation to the conducting of an independent examination, referred to above. An independent examination includes a review of the accounting records kepi by the Charity and of the accounting systems employed by the Charity and a comparison of the financial statements presented with those records. 11 also includès consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning such matters. The purpose of the examination is to establish as far as possible that there have been no breaches of the Charities legislation and that the financial statements comply with the Statement of Recommended Practice issued by the Charity Commissioners for England & Wales on a test basis, of evidence relevant lo the amounts ané disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence Ihat would be required in an audit, and information supplied by the Iruslees in the course of the examination is not subjeclod to audit tests or enquiries, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the financial statements, and in particular, l express no opinion as to whether the financial statements give a true and fair view of the affairs of the charity, and my report is limited lo the matters sel out in the statement below. I planned and performed my examination so as to satisfy myself that the objectives of the independent examination are achieved and before finalising the report l obtain written assurances from the trustees of all material matters. Subject to the limitations upon the scope of my work as detailed above, in connection with my examination, I can Gonfirm that 1) In accordance with Regulation 31 of The Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008, the accounts of this incorporated charity are not required to be audiled under Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006;

2) this is a report in respect of an examination carried out under section 43 of the Charities Acl 1993 and in accordance with any directions given by the Commission under subsection {71{b) of thal section which are applicable., and that, no matter has come to my attention in connection with my examination which gives me reasonable cause lo believe that in any material respect the requirements lil to keep accounting records in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006., (ill to prepare financial statements which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and., (iiil Ihal the financial slatemenls be prepared in accordance with the methods and principles sel out in the Statement of Recommended Practice - Accounting and Reporting by Charities have not been met,. or to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in my report in order lo enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached., K Veluppillai ACMA, CGMA,ACPA KV&CO Chartered Management Accountants Wallington Surrey SM6 8EX The date upon which my opinion is expressed is 41912024

HOME-START MERTON Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 March 2024 Unrestrlcted Restricted Funds Funds Total Funds Last Year Total Funds Notes 2024 2024 2024 2023 Incoming resources Incoming resources from generated funds Voluntary Income Activities for generating funds Investment Income 41,329 53,417 1,516 28,000 69,329 53,417 1,516 73,914 3,131 444 Total incoming resources 96,262 28,000 124,262 77,489 Costs of generating funds Costs of generating voluntary income Costs of charitable activities Governgnce costs 3,115 139,878 1,150 3,115 188,088 1,150 1,362 180,208 1,150 48,210 Total resources expended 144,143 48,210 192,353 182,720 Net outgoing resources before transfers between funds 147,8811 120,2101 168,0911 1105,2311 Gross transfers between funds Net outgoing resources before Other recognlsed gains and losses 147.8811 120,2101 168,0911 1105,2311 Other recognised gains and losses Galns/{losses) on investment assets 25,673 25,673 19,8551 Net movement in funds 122,2081 120,2101 142,4181 1115,0861 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought foard 432,420 432,420 593,793 Total Funds carried fonvard 410,212 120,2101 The nel movement in funds referred to above is the nel incoming resources as defined in the Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting issued by the Charity Commission for England & Wales and is reconciled lo the total funds as shown in the Balan Sheet oll page 10 as required by the said statement. 390,002 478,707 All activities derivo from continuing operations

HOME-START MERTON Company Number Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2024 5359862 2024 2023 Current assets Current Asset Investments Cash al bank and in h8nd Total current assets 301,185 102,368 403.553 385,512 56,675 442,187 Creditors:. amounts due within one year {13,5511 {9,7671 Net current assets 390,002 432,420 rotal assets less current Ilabllltles Credltors-. amounts due after more than one year Net assets excluding penslon asset / liability 390.002 432.420 390,002 432,420 Net assets including pension asset I liability Th8 funds of the charity.. 390,002 432,420 Unrestricted Income funds Unreslricled revenue accumulated funds Pension Deficit Fund Designated revenue funds Unrestrlcted c8Pltal fLtnd$ Designated fixed asset funds Designated Investment Funds Total unrestricted funds 31,154 8,658 100,000 39,487 22,533 100,000 270,400 270,400 410,212 432.420 Restricted revenue funds Reslricled revenue accumulated funds Restrlcted fixed asset funds Total restrlcted funds 20,210 20,210 Total charity funds 390,002 432,420 Thè diraetors 8rg $8tisfied that lor the year ended on 31 March 2023 the charitable company was entitled to exerllption from the requirement to obtain an audit under section 477 01 the Companie5 Act 2006 and that no rllember or rllembers have required th& company to obtain an audit of its accounts lor the year in question in accord8nce with section 476 of the Act. However, in accordance wlh section 43 of the Charities Act 1993, the a¢¢ounts h8ve been examined by an Indepèndènt Examiner whose report appears tsn page 7. The direclorlsl acknowledge their responsibility for complwng with th& requirements ol the Companlos Act 2006 wlh respect to accounting records and the preparation ol a¢counl5. The accounts have been pr8P8red in accordance wth the provisions in Part 15 of the Companles Act 2006 applicable lo copanieS subject lo the small companies regime and in accordance wth the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities l effective April 20081. D Lawrfjnco Trustee l Director Approved by the board of trustees on 8 if 12024 The notes on pages 9 to 11 form an integral part of these accounts.

HOME-START MERTON Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 Accounting policies Basis of preparation of the accounts The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Stsndard applicable in the UnitÈd Kingdom and Republic of ireland IFRS 1021 issued on 16 July 2014, and all other applicable aGGounting standards, as rnodified by the Statement of Recommended Practice for AcGounting and Reporting issued by the Charity Commissioners for England & Wales, The accounts have been drawn up in accordance with the provisions of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations and the Companies Act 2006, and include the results of the charity's operations which are described in the Trustees, Report, all of which are continuing. Insofar as the Statement of Recommended Practice for Accounting and Reporting issued by the Charity Commissioners for England & Wales,requires compliance with specific Financial Reporting Standards other than the FRS102 then the specific Financial Reporting Standards have been followed where their requirements differ from those of the FRS102. Advantage has been taken of Section 396{51 of The Companies Act 2006 to allow the format of the financial statements to be adapted to reflect the special nature of the charity's operation and in order lo comply with the requirements of the SORP. The particular accounting policies adopted are sel out below. Accounting convention The financial statements are prepared,on a going concern basis, under the historical cost convention. Incoming Resources Incoming resources are accounted for on a receivable basis deferred as described below where appropriate. All grants, including grants for the purchase of fixed assets are recognised in full in the Statement of Financial Activities in the year in which they are receivable. Investment Income Bank Interest received is included on an actual receipts basis. Fixed assets and depreciation Depreciation has been provided al the following rates in order to write off the assets (less their estimated residual value l over their estimated useful economic lives. Freehold land and buildings 2 % straight line Equipment 10 /0 straight line Taxation As a registered charity, the company is exempl from income and corporation tax to the extent that its income and gains are applicable lo charitable purposes only. Value Added Tax is not recoverable by the company, ar)d is therefore included in the relevant costs in the Statement of Financial Activities.

HOME-START MERTON Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 Finance and operating leases Rentals payable i n respect of operating leases where substantially all the benefits and risks of ownership remain with the lessor are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities as incurred. Finance leases are accounted for in accordance with the requirements of the Financial Reporting Standard IFRS1021. Funds structure policy The charity maintains a general unrestricted fund which represents funds which are expendable at the discretion of the trustees in furtheranGe of the objects of the charity. Such funds rnay be held in order lo finance both working capilal and capital investment. Restricted funds have been provided to the charity for particular purposes, and it is the policy of the board of trustees to carefully monitor the application of those funds in accordance with the restrictions placed upon them. Any other proposed transfer between funds would be considered on the particular circumstances. 2 Winding up or dissolution of the charity If upon winding up or dissolution of the charity there remain any assets, after the satisfaction of all debts and liabilities, the assets represented by the accumulated fund shall be transferred to some other charitable body or bodies having similar objects to the charity. 3 Deflclt for the financial year 2024 2023 This is stated after Crediting Revenue Turnover from ordinary activities 124,262 77,489 and after charging:" Pension costs Independent Examiner's Fees 6,540 1,150 5,765 1,150 4 Staff Costs and Emoluments 2024 2023 Gross Salaries Employer's Nalional Insurance Pension Contributions 130,795 13,343 6,540 150,678 127,007 8,762 5,765 141,534 There were no fees or other remuneration paid to the trustees There were no employees with emoluments in excess of £60,000 per annum 5 Trustees. remuneration Neither the trustees nor any persons connected with them have received any remuneration, either in the current year or the prior year. 10

HOME-START MERTON Notes to the Accounts for the year ended 31 March 2024 6 Tangible functional fixed assets Plant, Machinery & Vehicles Asset cost. valuation or revalued amount At 1 April 2023 At 31 March 2024 4,840 4,840 Accumulated depreciation and impairment provisions At 1 April 2023 Charge for the year At 31 March 2024 4,840 4,840 Net book value At 31 March 2024 7 Cr8dltors: amounts falling due wlthln one year 2024 2023 Accrued expenses PAYE and Nl 9,703 3,848 13,551 2024 5,657 4,110 9,767 2023 Pension Commitments and pension scheme details Defined Contrlbutlon Scheme Defined Benefit Scheme Due to be paid Nil 8,658 22,533

HOME-START MERTON Detailed Statement of Financial A¢tivltles for the vear ended 31 March 2024 Unre$iriGted Restri¢¢ed Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total Funds 2024 Prior Period Total Funds 2023 lllcoming Resources Incomlng R8sour¢68 from generated funds Voluntsry Incomè 16,412 16,412 11,601 Grants, legacles and donations Governmant and publi¢ bodles Incomlng ra$our¢s of a revenue naturè Non governtnent and non publlc bodS8S Incomlng resources of a revénuè naturo - grants, donatlons and lagaclei Generaiion FoJnd&iion Wimblèdon District Nursing anLI Midwilory 88novoleni Sociely The Taylor Family Foundation Dorus Trusi Wimbledon Foundation London Community Found811on OLUHC Poul Slronks Ch8rllabk Trust John Lewis Hom6 Start UK Waiiros NHS Total Total Grant&,Logacl8s & Donatlons RecèSvéd Oth8r voluntary Incom8 Olhtrr Incom& Total oth&r voluntary Incom• Total Voluntary Incomt Attlvltlas for gonoratlng funds 15.000 3.000 10,000 15,000 1,979 10.000 10,000 25,000 2,620 10,000 8,000 1,021 10,000 1,0 1,000 10.000 2,500 500 1,000 938 750 13,000 13.000 938 938 500 500 28,000 28,000 61.308 61.308 40,829 68,829 500 500 500 500 1,005 28 000 53.417 Total of 8Ctlvltl$ lor g•n•rotlng funds Invostment Income 8ank deposit ini8res1 r8celvad 1,516 1,516 444 Total Invéstmènt Incume Total Incornlng R•$our¢88 Galns on Inv8stm8nl 4888t8 1.516 96.262 444 124262 Unreo11$8d G8insll1055851 on Inv8slmenls Cost¥ of qon0r&llng fund8 Costs of ganerètlng vdlunl•ry Incomo Fundralslng 8vent cost Total costs of 98nèratlng voluntary Income CharltAblè Éxpendlturq Support costs olcharltable acllvltles DlreGt support costs Gross wages 8nd salarles chadlable acllville5 Travel Ènd Subsistence- Charilable Acllvllles Employ8rs' Nl- Charilabla acliv1118S Pension conlrlbulions charliable ampIoe$ Volunteers, Costs Legrnlng 8 Developrneni Staff Hom8 Start- UK Consultancy siafF Training & Expenses 88,805 41.990 130,795 127,007 9,243 4.420 524 341 19891 4.100 2,120 13,343 6,540 524 341 19891 8,762 5.765 369 2.291 104,124 48,210 152,334 147,238

HOME4TART MERTON Detailed Statement of Finan¢lal AGtlvltles for the vear ended 31 March 2024 Unrestricted R6strlGted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total Funds 2024 Prior Perfod T¢tal Funds 2023 Managementandadmlnlstratlort ¢osts In support of ¢harlt&blè 8ctivities PrènJi5es Co$is Offlce Premlses Cost Rent payab16 InsuranG Total Office Premises Costs Bvil(fing works & Refil R&nl P8yable Rates Insurance 16.283 1,228 17,511 16.283 1.228 17,511 11.640 1,074 12.714 Service Conlra¢tl Leases Total Charity shop premls88 Costs Total Premlses Costs General admlnlstratlve 8XP8nS8$.' Telephon6 and f8X PosLage Stationery an(1 prlnling Affillallon 8nd Membershlp fae Servlc8 Coniracil L888&$ Equipment expenses Payroll cost8 IT support Advertising and PR Bank charges Sundry expenses 17,511 12,714 466 466 1,454 1.327 1.427 5,167 1,297 528 887 183 1,327 1.427 5.167 1,297 526 887 183 60 236 1.357 26 6,349 3.062 505 2,346 69 2,447 236 Professlonal lees In supporl of ch•rlt•bl& a¢tlvltles Lagal and prof88slon81 faes 6,680 6.660 2,841 Total Support cost8 139878 188088 180,208 Total Expended on Ch4rltabl8 A¢tlvlt1é8 139,878 48.210 188088 180,208 Gov•rn8nc8 ¢O$ts thar aré noi dlracl manapem6nt funcllons Inh•r•nt In 9enerallng ltsnds, servlco dèllvèry Jndprogramme orproJ8cl work Spoclllc governan¢e costs Ind8pend8ni Examlnerfs Fee$ Total governancè eoit4 1.150 1,150 1.150 1,150

Registered Charity Number 1108937 Registered Company Number 5359862 HOME-START MERTON REPORTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2024