21 NOV 2024 Shpresa Pnwra Inspiring hope & change SHPRESA PROGRAMME FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31 MARCH 2024 Company Registration Number: 4692860 Charity Number: 1110688 Prime Chartered Accounts Corner Oak 1 Homer Road Solihull West Midlands B913QG
5HPRESA PROGRAMME CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Page Report of the Trustees Ito27 Independent Examiner's Report 28 Statement of Financial Actlvities 29 Balance Sheet 30 Cash Flow Statement 31 Notes to the Financial Statements 32to41
TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 The Trustees have pleasure In presentln8 thelr report and the financlal statements of the Charlty for the year ended 31 March 2024. REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Charlty name.. Company Registration Number: Charlty Re8istration Number: Shpresa Pro8iamme 04692860 1110688 Reglstsred Offlce and Prlnclpal Address: Mansfleld House 30 Avenons Road London E13 8HT DIRECTORS AND TRUSTEES Shannon Helene Griffin Leonard Ded8Jonaj atixhe Demushi Ergest Zejnelaj Jeremond Emrlc Durln8 Elona Gega Nela Betl Chair Vice Chair Treasurer Trustee Trustee Tnjstee Trustee {reslgned 6 December 2023) The Trustees have delegated day to day re5pon51bllitie5 to Lulleta Nuzl, the Project Dlrector, CHIEF EXECUTIVE: Lulleta Nuzl BANKERS: HSBC 8ank Ple 118 High Street North East Ham London E6 2HX INDEPENDENT EXAMINER: Jeremy Kitson Prirne Chartered Accountants Corner Oak l Homer Road Solihull West Midlands B913QG
Pa8e 12 STrUCTURE. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Shpresa Programme ('Shpresa'l is a reglstered charity and is Incorporated as a limited company with the dispensation to omit the word Ilmlted. It 15 governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association and the oblecttves are the same as those set out in its charity re8lStration. The date of incorporation of thecompany is Ilth March 2LK13, and its fom)al charity registratlon Is 2nd AuEust 2005. Trustees, Selectlon, Inductlon and Tralnlnz The Governance of the charity is overseen bythe board of Trustees Ithe'Board'). Trustees are recruited by the Board who consider the skills currentty available and then Identify the requirernenls needed for any addltional or replacement trustees. Potentlal trustees are Invlted to a prellmlnary discusslon wlth the Board, In the successful appolntment of a Irustee, the CEO provides an induction pack to introdute the potentfal trustee to the work and objectives of the organisatS0n. Organlsatlon of the tharlty The Board agrees on policyand strategy issues and delegates the day-to-day mana8ement of Shpresa's operation to the CEO who is supported by a team of apwopriately qualilied people. Shpresa's team, compromises of 4 full-time staff and 5 part-tfme staff. Rl$k Management The Board meets regularly to discu55 risks and make efforts to miti8ate such rlsks. Thelr declslons are based on the four columns of the Charlty Commlsslon's recommended categorles whlch are: Governance and Management, Operatlonal, Flnanclal and Envlronmental and External Rlsk. Publlc 8oneflt The Board has had due regard to the 8uldance publlshed by the Charlty Commls51on on Publlc Benefit and Is ofthe vlew that Shpresa Pro8ramme Isof Immense benefit to the Albanlan speaklng communlty. OBJECTIVES AND AcfiviTIES Objects Shpresa Ss established forthe benefit of the Albanian speaking people in the UK, both seeklng asylum and granted refu8ee status, migranls, and thelr dependents In accordance wlth the laws of En8land and Wales. Shpre5a: advances their education and offers tralnln& partlcularty to advance them In lffe and help them adapt withln a new comrnunltv. provides rellef of financial hardshlp, In particular, but not exclusively, by providing advice and other assistance; presenies and protects their good physical and mental health; provides facilities for recreation or other lelsure activities with the object of Improvlng the conditions of life of those persons who have need of such facilities by reason5 of their youth, age, infirmity or disability. financial hardship or social and economic circumstances; and promotes any further charitable purposes for the benelit of the Albanian speaking community in the UK as the Board may from time to time decide (with Preference given to the London area).
Pa8e 13 Introductlon In 2023-24, the Shpresa Programme reinforced its understanding of the Albanian-speaking community's diverse needsin London. thanksto itsdeep-rooted connection and extensive experience. Insights from Shpresa's Listening Campaign confirm that Shpresa Programme continues to effectlvely address the evolving and varied needs of its community. The chan8in8 environment has introduced new challenges, while many existing needs persist, requiring 5hpresa to remain resilient and adaptive. Past SUeS have not disappeared, but new ones have emer8ed, demandln8 an expanded scope of services and a shlft in priorities. Shpresa's strength Iles In Its abllity to listen, Identlfy key e$. transform such Issues Into actlonable problems, and then bulld the partnershlps, capaclty, and campaigns needed to address the Issues. This year, the Shpresa Programme made significant strides bv: enhancin8 service delivery through strateglc partnershlps to meet the growlng demand for servlces such as Engllsh language classes, mental health support, Immlgratlon advlce, beneflt5 and debt counselllng, parenting guldance, domestlc violence support and tallored assSstance for trafflcked or asylum.seeklng children," expanding youth-specif ic programs. improvin81)oth in-person and online service facilitation, and offerin8 issue-focused support, including immi8ration advice, mental health services, sports and well-bein8 activities, gender-specific programs and cultural exch3n8e workshops; and Increasin8 employment support services. providing job readiness workshops, volunteerlng opportunitles, career counselling. teachlng assistant advice and 5UPPOrt for soclal enterprlse Initiatives. A major mllestone for Shpresa Programme in 2023-24 was acqulrlng Mansfield House, 8lvin8 Shpre5a a permanent home. The Shpresa team is excited to proceed with plans for Its renovation, which wlll Increase Shpresa's capacity and provide a we range of spaces for the community, including community café, a social enterprise hub and potentlalfy supported housing (pendin8 approval). Throughout thls report, we wlll share the Ilved experlences of the people Shpresa supports, along with Shpresa's achlevements, challenges and luture plans. We are proud to announce that durin8 2023-24, Shpresa worked with over 3,000 users, stren8thened Its exlstin8 partnerships and forged new ones to continue meetin8 the needs of the communlty Shpresa serves. Chalr's Report Ms Shannon Gvlffin As Chair of Shpresa Programme. l am both ceflettive and optimistic about the bourney we have undertaken and the promising future that lie5 ahead. It has been an honour to serve in this role for the past five years, and l am incredibly proud of the 5tride5 we have made in advancing Shpresa's mission to support and uplift the Albanian-5peaking community and beyond. This year has been marked by significant mile5tone5 that represent a new chapter in Shpresa Programme's ongoing evolution. One of the most notsble achievernents has been the progress made afterthe acquisition of Mansfield House. With thededicated effortsof Shpresa's team and an architect and the successful approvals for the initial stages of planning permission. Shpresa is set to transform
Pa8e 14 Mansfield House into a cornerstone of our community's future. The renovation plans are ambltious: the ground floor will feature a community kitchen, café and versatile space for gatherings; the first floor will house offices for our staff and affordable office space for the community,. and the third floor will hopefully evolve into living units for those most vulnerable. This development not only symbolises Shpresa's growth but also its commitment to providin8 tangible, lon8-term support to those in need. Another landmark achievement has been obtaining consent from the Charity Commission to broaden Shpresa Pro8ramme's memorandum. The new articles of association and memorandum were successfully passed at a general meeting held over the summer. This expanslon will allow Shpresa to extend its services to a wider array of mlnority groups. reinforclng Its commitment to inclusivity and support for mafginalised communltles. The reslllence and dedlcatlon of Shpresa's staff, volunteers and supporters have been nothlng short of extraordlnary. Thelr hard work and unwavering commitment are the drlvlng force5 behlnd Shpresa's succe55. As we navigate an everchanging landscape, their efforts ensure that Shpresa remalns a vltal resource and advocate for those It seNes, Wlth these achlevements laylng a stron8 foundation for the future, Shpresa Programme Is well- equlpped to embrace new opportunities and continue its mlssion with renewed vigour. Shpresa's achlevements th15 year lay a stron8 foundation for the future. and I look forward to wltnessln8 the contlnued growth and posltlve impact of Shpresa Programme. Thank you for your support. dedicatlon and bel*f In Shpresa'5 vlslon. To8ether, we are maklng a profound dlfference In the Ilve5 of Individuals and the broadér communlty. Chlef Executlve Report As I reflect on thls past year at Shpresa Programme, I'm remlnded of the ada8e: "Never let a crls15 go to waste,"Thls has been a guidlng prlDciple for us as we navlgate the challen8e5 faced by our organisatlon and the ¢ommunltles we serve. It's durlng these moments of adverslty that we have discovered new opportunitie5 to deepen our impact and refine our approach. From the on8oln8 fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic to the pressing Issues of NRPF INO Recourse to Public Funds), unemployment, the cost-of-living crisis, and the rise in domestlc vlolence and asylum seekers. Shpresa has turned challenges into catalysts for 8rowth, support and transformatlon, This year, Shpresa has not onty continued to respond to the communltrfs immedlate needs but has empowered Indlvlduals to help themsefves. By working closely wlth Shpresa's members, we've enhanced their knowledge and skills, enabling the members to better navlEate systems related to employment, health services and housin8. Shpresa's dedication to fosterin8 resilience within its community has been instrumental in creating long-lasting change. We are particularly proud of our commitment to ampllfying the voices of those Shpresa serrfes. Through partnerships with specialist institutions. local authorities and government departments, we've ensured that the needs of 5hpresa's members are heard and addressed at the highest levels. Shpresa's participation in events like the Youth TukeoverDay-where one of Shpresa's young leaders courageously asked the Deputy Mayor about addre55ing harmful stereotypes against the Albanian-speaking community-demonstrates Shpresa's ongoing focus on advocating for equality and social justice.
Page 15 In December, Shpresa proudly took part in the WeAre Newhom event, alongside other community organisations, celebratinE success stories and continuing vital conversations on issues such as housing, mental health and 5hpresa's campaign to preserve the Albanian language. Shpresa's collaboration with Telco has also made snifIcant strides in highlighting the impact of inadequate housing on educational outcome5. Through research. 5emi-structured interviews and community-led insights, Shpresa has shed light on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by families in its care, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. This research has been pivotal in advocating for policies and practices that truly support the wellbeing of Shpresa's community. One of the shining achievements of this year has been the success of our "Lost on Hold, Our Storles Told" project. The voices of Shpresa's community have reached national platforms, with reports published in The Guordian and The Mirror. Additionally, the prolect's film, created by Shpresa's youth, was nominated for the Charity Film Awards, showcasin8 the power of Shpresa's young people to drive change through creative expression. Equally inspirin8 was the "Breokinq the Choins" project. which won the 2022 Empowering Survivors Voices Award at the Anti-slavery Day Awards. This project has played a critical role in givin8 platform to survivors of modèrn slavery, ensurin8 that their stories are not just heard but acted upon. At the heart of Shpresa Is Its leadershlp development programme, a flagshlp Inltlatlve that taps into the Ilved experlences of Its communlty. Thls programme, drawln8 from soclal entrepreneurshlp and ¢ommunSty or8anlsln81 has been sUPPOrted by lon85tandln8 mentors of Shpresa who contlnue to help nurture the next generation of leaders. Theirguklance and wlsdom have been Instrumental In the professlonal and personal growth of Shpresa's current leaders, further stren8thenln8 Its foundatlon for the future. Perhaps the most s18nlflcant mllestone thlsyear has been realising a dream 20 years in the makln8: securlng a permanent communlty bulldlng. What started as a humble hot desk in 2CQO, evolving to our flrst offlce In 2003 and Shpresa's flrst leased buildlnE In 2007, has now culminated in the purchase of its very own space In 2023. This building is more than brick5 and mortar; it is a home for our community-a place where individuals can feel safe. valued, and 5UPPOrted as they grow and inte8rate into society. As we look ahead, this new "home" will serve as a hub for everyone who wants to help themselves and other5. It stands a5 a symbol of Shpresa's resilience, unwaverlng commitment to community and belief that by working together, we can build a brighter future. Shpresa's theory of change and pillars of success continue to guide us. The road ahead may hold further challenges, but with the strength of Shpresa's community, the support of Shpresa's partners, and the resolve of Shpresa's leadership. we are confident that Shpresa Programme will contlnue to thrive and make a lasting difference. Shpresa looks forward to the future with hope, optimism, and an unshakable belief in the potential of its community. Together, Shpresa will continue to turn cri5e5 into opportunities and dreams into reality.
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Page 19 The Impact of Shpresa's Wovk and What was Achleved In 202>2024 The Board is pleased to presentthe reportand audited accountsfor thefinancial year ending 31 March 2024. In this report, we review the achievements, outcomes, and impact of our work on the community, while assessin8 future plans to ensurethatthe charity'saims, objectives and activities are well-ali8ned with Shpresa's mission. Durin8 2023-2024, the Shpresa Programme delivered life-changing services to 3,200 individuals, includin8 unaccompanied minors. survivors of trafficking, Victims of violence against women and 8irls {VAWGI, asylum seekers, refu8ees. migrants and their families. Shpresa Programme's work is deeply rooted in relationship buildlng and supportlng the communlty at every stage of thelr journey, using a family-centred approach that provides services for the entire family. This holistic method has proven hi8hly effective for Shpresa's community. Being user-led is a key component of Shpresa's success, as many of the Shpresa team share slmilar experiences and possess a profound understanding of the challenges women face. Shpresa has repeatedly witnessed how this approach helps users 8aln trust, bulld confldence and feel connected, reallsln8 they are not alone and that they belon8 to a supportlve communlty. By Involvln8 former users and volunteers In Shpresa services, relatable role models are created who contlnue to contrlbute to the or8anlsatlon. Their Involvement Is crucial, both for ensurlng the sustalnabillty of Shpresa's work and for brin8in8valuable skllls and knowledge that benefft the wlder communlty. Once a8aln, Shpresa Is aware of the valuable lesson that partnershlp work Is e55entlal, Collaboratlng wlth professlonal partners to provlde the right support for Shpresa's users whether In counsellln8. advlce on domestlc violence, arts and sports programmes, language classes or tralnln8 Is a crltlcal aspect of Shpresa's work. These partnership5 not only enhance the services Shpresa offers but also help Shpresa's partners to 8ain a deeper understanding of the cultural challenges faced by Shpresa's community. 8y adaptlng their approach to be more culturally sensitive, these partners are able to maxlmlse the effectlveness of their collaboration and have a greater impact on the Ilves of Shpresa's Users. This year Shpresa's current artive network inclvdes", MICLU Imlgranl and Refu8ee Children's Legal Unltl, Garden Court Chambeis, Human Traffi'cking Foundation, Telco, Manor Gardens, The Alternative Trust, Croydon Drop In, Kazzum, Refuge Council, Money A&E, Total Family Coachin8, Alisar Trainlng provlder, Jonathan Ellls campalgns, LMLAS, IKWRO- Women's Rights Organization, New Europeans, Law flrms and barrlsters, Frenford Clubs, BDYO, Musllmah51)orts, EUSS Consortium, Connect Newham, Newham College, Local MPS and counsellors. As a result of on8oin8 consultatlons and en8a8ement with all stakeholders, Shpre5a has gained valuable insights into the stakeholders, perspectives and ideas for change. This proces5 has helped Shpresa better understand the wider need5 of the community while prioriti5ing diversity, equity and inclusion. To ensure that Shpresa's pro8rammes and servi$ remain accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of the broader community. Shpresa applied to the Charity Commission to amend its objectives-from serving exclusively the"Albanian-speaking community" to supporting'people in the UK from minority backgrounds." Such approval has since been 8ranted.
Pa8e 110 5hpresa remains committed to being open tofeedback, creating opportunities to receive regular Input from all stakeholders. By adaptlng Shpresa's approach based on the evolving needs of and keeping everyone informed about challenges, successes and any changes in the community• Shpre5a aims to maintain trust and foster continued positive engagemènt with all those involved. During this financlal year Shpresa Pro8ramme held a numbers of events including". 25 May 23- Mental Heafth Awareness Week trnlnlng. 31 May 23 - Our CEO Luljeta Nuzl was awarded the Freedom of 8orou8h award from the London Borough of Barklng and Da8enham at a Celebratlon event In Barkln8 Town Hall. 27 June 23-Action Day at Parllament Square- Chlldren belong in Classrooms, not Detenon Centres. 22 - 25 June 23- Celebrating Refuge Week. 28 and 29 Nov 23- Celebrating Independence Day and ralse awareness of our communlty and work. 25 Nov- 10 Dec 23 - actlvitles around dornestic violence durlng the 16 days of activism. 27 Nov 23 - durln8 the 16th day of actlvlsm, Sexual Exploltation wlthln the Albanian Communlty in London led by Manor Gardens. 5 Dec 23-Trip to Wlndsor. 9 Dec 23-Talent show In partnershlp with Green Street Llbrary and Cllr Larlsa Zlll¢kaJa. IS Det 23- Trip to Canterbury. 16 & 17 December 23- End of Year celebrations. 8 February 2024- Free bus travel for asylum seekets campaign 8atherSn8 Outslde London Clty Hall. 10 and 17 February 24 - Celebratin8 Kosovo Independence Day, Includlng award presentatlon at GLA. 9 Mar 24- Celebrating International MotherTon8ue Day. 11 March 24- Women's Day celebration "Empower Herf. 16 March 24-Summer Day celebration. 26 March 24- Continuation of the bus campal8n at Barklng Town Hall alon851de Cltlzens UK. 29 March 24- Zero Dlscrlmlnation Day event. 30 and 31 March 24- Celebratin8 Easter and Iftar evening. Shpresa runs actlvlt6es and service5 seven days a week. Shpresa's maln servlces are: Empowerlng Women. a hollstic pro8rnmme to support Albanian speaklng women's health, wellbeing, safety and for them to Ilve wlth dl8nity and independence. As part of thls pro8ramme, Shpresa dellvered five weekly support 8roups as planned In dlfferent area5 across London: The Arc Enfi'eld, Fenford Club Redbridge, Barking Library, Mansfield House Newham and a Zoom online group, 116 wornen attended fegularty and benefited from soclallslng, breakin8 Isolation, learning and flnding out new Information relevant to their needs. Albanian-speaking women in the UK face numerous challenges that often leave thern feelin8 isolated and disconnected from society. Many have little to no understanding of En61ish, British culture or the systems in place, making it difficult for them to integrate. This lack of knowledge leads to feelin8s of loneliness and confusion, particularly around navigatin8 the lengthy immi8ration process and understanding their rights and entitlements. Fear of being misunderstood or judged often prevents these women from seeking help, while economic disadvantage adds further stress, anxiety and uncertainty to their daily lives. Many are at high risk of domestic violence and suffer from depression and other mental health Issues concerns that are consistentty raised by the women Shpresa works with. its partner providers and is generally reflected in wider statistics.
Pa8e 111 The women Shpresa supports are highly vulnerable to violence, trafficking and exploitatlon. Recent changes to the Immigration Act. including designatingAlbania as a'safe country," along with negative portrayals in Parliament and the media, have increased risks for Shpresa's community members. The practice of placing families In unsafe hotels and providlng only £8 per week per person has led to extreme poverty. This severely limits such individuals. ability to improve their mental health, overall well-being and prospects for education and employment. The harsh conditions exacerbate their vulnerability and hinder their ability to progress and build a better future. Through this project, 155 individltals received essential advice arKI a(fvocacy serrfices, enablln8 them to move forward posltlvely wlth thelr Ilves. Shpresa's slaff provlded one-tone support and followed each case closely to ensure solutions were found and appropriate help was accessed. The issues addressed included domestic violence ('DW), traffickin& mental health challenges, beneflts entitlements, changes In circumstances and homelessness. A total of 116 women participated in support groups, with 8A reporting re8ular attendance and improvements in thelr well-being. Many of the women Shpresa works with experience significant isolation. lacking both networks and family support. The bonds formed in Shpresa's 5UPPOrt group5 have led to endurin8 relationships that extend beyond the meetings themselves. Women have been able to provide crucial mutual aid and support toone anotherdurin8 difficult times, f05terin8 a stron8 sense of belon8in8 and community. Throu8h these connectlons, women have reported feeling more Inte8rated into the communlty and better able to relate to others with similar experiences. Addltionally, increased awarenes5 of mental health and other issues has empowered women to enhance their skills. build resillence and Improve their overall well-belng. Thls not only (educes mental health challen8es but also stren8thens thelr capacity to create and sustsin positive relationships. 46 women accessed speclfSc tralnlng on parentlng educatlon and employment. Through these opportunities, Shpresa created strong support networks and nurturing environment5 that promote well-being, resilience and personal growth. The core principles 8uidin8 this programme include,. creatlng a safe and en8a8ln8 envlronment that fosters active Ilstenlng and effectlve communication; promotln8 a posltlve léamlns atmosphere wlth consistent emotional support; encouragln8 quallty tlrne together to share knowled8e, ralse awareness and spread education; and sharfn8 resources, showcasin8 achlevements and promotlng role models to Inspire others. 30 women who transltloned into volunteering roles reported an Increase in confidence, wSth 83% noting improvements in work experience and employability skills. Among these volunteers, 17%15 women) expressed a stronger interest in contributingto the tommunity and sharing their experiences to help others, rather than focusing solely on skill development or employability. Shpresa provided references for volunteers who progressed to roles with organisations such as Children's Resldential Care services (SV Care Services Ltd), UCM Education. Enga8e Education. mainstream schools, day nurseries and other agencies. In addition, to increase the advice capacity within Shpresa. Shpresa started partnership work with Money A&E on the Propel Employability Advice Training Partnership and four of Shpresa's volunteers are engaged on this project.
Page 112 Shpresa received £7,000 in vouchers from Our Newham Money from the Household Support Fund. These vouchers were handed out to families and individuals in Newham, aiming to reduce poverty and provlde help at a critical moment. Shpresa also run a programme underthe VAWG Cost of Living Fund. Shpresa is able to provide services and support a total of 212 beneficiaries under this programme and supports 61 women on a weekly basis. Through thts grant Shpresa has been able to con[e a pro&ramme to support women and girls who have muttiple needs and are dispioportionally at risk of traffickin8 and domestic abuse. As well as direct support, weekly groups, tralnln8 and referrals under this programme, Shpresa also runs "Came Dlne wlth Me. sesslons, referred 20 women to food banks and referred 3 pregnant women to Happy Baby. 40 women have been supported wlth travellln8 cards and food vouchers. Case studv: L is a mother of S children. She has been a victim of Dvall her married life. She had no courage to speak wlth anyone about her Issues and was struggllng In sllence. She learnt about the DV and mental health Issues when coming to Shpresa's groups. Wlth the help of her eldest dau8hter, she called Shpresa lo ask for help. 5hpresa approached IKWRO who 5peclallses not only on DV but a150 on honour-based vlolence. L was concerned about what the effect of her reportlng her husband would have on her famlty and that they ml8ht See It as she was dlshonourlng them by trylng to dlvorce her husband. L and her chlldren are In a safe place now. She Is keeplng strong and noi glvlng up to pressure from her famlty or her husband. He has been banned from attemptin8 to approach them. EK is a motheroftwo chlldren whocameto UK during 2018 to seek asylum. 5hejoined Shpresa Programme during 2023. EK was lonely, isolated, not informed, not able to navigate 5ervlces and could not speak En81ish. She found li dlfficult at flrst to adapt; Shpresa supported her on one-ttrone basls to helpher bulld the trust and breaksome of the barriers she faced in being around people. She was afrald she would be Judged because she dld not know many thln8S and could not speak the lan8ua8e. For many years she did not have the coura8e to Ilve her accommodation and engage with other people. she was very lonely and isolated. As she gained trust in Shpresa, she became more confident and opened up about the issues she faced. She Jolned En8llsh classes and other servlces. Recently she was granted refugee status and Shpresa helped her to access the benefits she was entltled to. Wlth support of Shpresa's staff, she clalmed backdated child benefits and received all her entitlements. She Is very thankful and says that she would not have been able to make such a claim as she only learned about her entitlements throu8h Shpresa Pro8ramme, We Can, Volunteering Project - with this project Shpresa Programme aims for women to not only reduce their isolation but also have increased employment related skills, a greater knowledge and understanding of their rights and responsibilitie5 in the UK, improved mental health resiliencelwellbeing and more awareness about how to keep themselves healthy and safe from violence and abuse. Shpresa has successfully organised ihree weekly Women Support Groups (WSGS), attended by 87 women, creatin8 a safe and empowering space for them to share experiences, offer mutual support and access essential resources. These groups included workshops on relevanl toplcs such as language learning, cultural adaptation, the immBration system, benefits and entitlement5, domestic violence, safeguarding, mental health and more.
Page 113 Shpresa encouraged women to engage in volunteer trainin8, which resulted in 24 participants completing a slx-week programme. This trainin& combined with work placements, has si8nificantlv enhanced their skills and provided valuable personal and professional development. Many volunteers reported feellng a sense of purpose and contribution to the community. Notably, 11 volunteers became Parenting and Employment Champions and pursued teaching assistant training. Additionally, five women became Mental Health Champions and five becamewalking Champions, engaging in social action and well-bein8 artivities. Five volunteers tfan5itioned into employment, wlth one working as 5UPPOrt worker and another as sessional staff within our or8anisation. Shpresa'5 parenting 5UPPOrt included two six-week sessions of the Trlple P Programme, comprehensive strate8Y to prevent behavioural and developmental issues in children. Thi5 programme, prlmarlly attended by sin8le mothers in challenging drcumstances, provlded Inltial steps toward Integration, im proved self-esteem and resilience. The pro8ramme effectively Met Ils objectives, wlth posltive feedback and a clear demand for continued and expanded support. The Llfe In the UK sesslons offered essential informatlon and support for newcomers and women unfamlllar wlth such tralnin8. These culturally orSented sesslons covered Brltlsh soclety, Immlgratlon and resldency requlrements, the education and health systems, public transport, votSng rights, domestlc vlolence, employment and self-employment. Informal ESOL classes further sUPPOrted English language learninE. 46 women reported feeling empowered with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt. thrive and actively participate in their new environment. Employablllty tralnlng for volunteers Included creatln8 effective Cvs and cover letters, practlsln8 for Intervlews and recelvin8 job search advlce. Attended by 24 volunteers, thls tralnlng was Instrumental In Improvlng thelr Job market readiness. Partlcipants also accessed dlgltal tralning and resource5 for on8olng profe55lonal development. Durlng Mental Health Awareness Week, Shpresa conducted sesslons attended by 26 women and volunteers, celebrated World Mental Health Day wlth varlous Indoor and outdoor activltles and encouraged relaxatlon andwell-belng. Shpresa also offered creatlveexpression opportunities through art classes, knlttlng and cooklng. Women were Invited tojoin Psychoeducational Groups in partnership with a mental health provider, with three groups of six sessionseach attended by a total of 24 women. Those wlth higher needs were reteired for one-tOne therapy. Overall, these initiatives have Significantly impacted the women Shpresa supports, enhancing thelr well-belng, skills and community engagement. One of Shpresa's partners for the mental healih work. Carollne Cawson. CO-CEO of Therapies at Alternatives Trust East London wrote for Shpresa's blo& "In 2021. Alternotives Trust Eost London and the Shpreso Progmmme set up a partnership to deliver group psychoeducation theropy sessions to Albonion women occessing Shpresa 5ervice5. Delivery of the groups is provided by a quolified counsellor fmm Alternatives. The group is helping Albonian women to understand more obout their mentol health and to improve their emotional well-belng. It covers topics such os whot theropy is self-core andstress manogement. We support women who need it to access one to one therapy ofter the group os well.
Po8e 114 Wlthout this partnership, many Albanion women in Newhom and across london would be going through tmumotic experiences without ary mental heolth 5UPPOrt. Accessing counselllng with interpreting is extremely difficult vio NHS or GP theropy referral routes. making this service very Inoccesslble. By providing therapy with Interpreting, these women ore now uble to express their feelings saftfy in o group ond a one-t£Fone setting. They ore able to explore ond break down a lot of the stigma thot exists In reochino outfor mental heolth support. The majority of the Albonion women who ore involved in thls projert hove been through high levels of psychologlcol trauma, sometimes over o number ol yeors. Often. their journey to get to the UK is fraught wlth dangerondfvrther trouma. compounding the often violentor dangerous experiences they are escoplngfrom. Traffickinq, abuse, ond exploitotion are common. Other issues that come up in the therapy ore how to novigote the uncertainty and hostility of going through the osylum system in the UK. Since 2021, 41 women have recelved help through this partnership by ottendlng the group. A further 19 women hove qone onto recelvlnq one-to.one counselling sessions, wlth the help ol on Albonlon experienced interpreterprovided by Shpreso. She is someone very trusted by the women and theyfeel oble to build trust with the counsellors because of this. Mony of the women are tolklng for the flrst time about theirlive5, their experiences. ond theirfeelings. rhe Impact of hovlnq theirstories wltnessed is that it helps to process whot hos hoppened ond begin to move onto somethlng more posltlve." Women's story.. F S has lolned Shpresa Pro8ramme In February 2023. She was referred to Shpresa by another AlbanSan speakln8 women. She was very vulnerable, In total Isolatlon, wlthdrawn and In a panlc all of the tlme. The Shpresa leam had an Inttial one-to-one sesslon wlth her and Introduced her to Shpresa's services very slowly, ensurln8 she felt at ease and understood. Many women that lolned Shpresa's ser¥lces In the last year are asylum seekers that have recently me to the UK to seek sanctuary. Apart from the traumatlc experlence they had when fleeSng thelr home, they travelled in unsecure ways rlsklng thelr Ilves to come to a safe place, They are met wlth another traurnatic experience when coming to UK as they are faced wlth new challenges. Includlng language barriers, lack of understandlng. prejudlce and very often abuslve and humlllatfngtreatments. They live in hotel, including F, where they have very limited resources, and they have no one to turn to for SUPF)Ort. Shpresa has been able to provide clothln8 and other necesslties for F and her family members. She was initially introduced to Shpresa's women support group and informal ESOL classes. She found it very dlfficult at first, could not concentrate al all and was very distressed. The Shpresa tearn worked slowly with F to build trust, includin8 by providin8 access to women only services. In time, she started to volunteer at "Come Dine with Me" sessions for women and children. Cookln8 for women and thelr children makes her very satisfied since they all share the same background and culture and are very happy that they could provide traditional hot meal to their chiklren. By working on a one-to-one basis with F, Shpresa's staff have been able to identify other needs that she has, including dealing with stress and anxiety about beingscared for her and her family member's lives if they returned to Albania.
Pa8e 115 Shpresa works in partnership with professionals to offer additional support lo its users. After identifying F needs Shpresa referred her to The Alternatives Trust East London. They have done an assessment of her mental health, and she has joined a psychoeducation 'lntroduction to Counselling, 8roup from May to July 2023. The group helps women understsnd what counselllng Is and prepares them for one-to-one sessions. After attending the group. The Alternatives offered F one-to-one counsellinE sesslons that she has attended from August 23. The trauma F has been through in her life has imparted her8reatly, and she feels and lives in fear and anxiety all the time; very often she has nashbacks. She says shecannot be in noisy places a5 she panics and then feels completely disorientated and does not know where she is or what is happenlng. She feels breathless and like she is suffocatlng and vokes that say, e found you; you are dead" follow her. She finds it diff icult to talk about the past; she feels embarrassed, and she knows Is not her fault they are in huge debt and were forced to work unpaid for traffickers to pay off the debt, Every second spent there was a hell. She states, 'We were not safe at all; we fèared everythlng., She could even finish a sentence as she was shaking and breaking down in téars. She said that she Is more afrald that for their lives and those of her children, includin8 what would happen to them if they rnade a wrong move and were killed. "I would have ended my life if it was not for my children. l am tlred, she says, "but I must fight for my children to make sure they are safe." F states that her life changed and took a much more positive turn since she joined Shpresa Pctsgramme. She feels Ilke she Is not alone anymore; she feels understood arbd supported. Wlth tears in hereyes, she shares the loy of seelng her chlldren happy when they come togetherwlth others In a dlfferent envlronment than that of the hotel they are "confined. In. F Is grateful she Is TeceSvln8 counsellln8 frorn The Alternatlve5 Trust and that she Is helped wlth Interpretln8 and other needs facilitated from Shpresa Programrne to ensure she gets thls help. Desplte It all. F 55 sflll very vulnerable; her status keeps her In a Ilmbo. Any changes to her routlne or Support can easlly distressed her. Shpresa contlnues to provlde holistlc supportto F and her two chlldren, Introduced her to food schemes, helped wlth food vouchers and other practlcal support and wlll continue to do so, untll they no lon8er need Shpresa's SUPPQrt. The Leadership •nd Social Actlon Prolert en8a8es skllls and encourages upsklllln8 and empowerlng the Albanlan speakln8 people Ilvlng In UKto work together to sofve the problems that matter to them and for the common 8ood. It bullds power and leadershlp and Influences Albanlans In the UK ta champlon the power of Ilved experience and leadershlp for poslttve soclal change. It creates opportunltfes for need5, concerns. ideas and asplratlons of mlnorlty mi8rant communlties to be heard In the "corrldors of powerf, The Leadership Programme has now become a cornerstone of Shpresa's core work, embodylng 20 years of expertise and sharin8 its wealth of knowledge with emer8in8 leaders who have Ilved experience. Shpresa successfully recruited both leaders and mentors from the sector and local authorities and expanded its rbetwork to include local councillors from boroughs such as BarklnE & Dagenham, Croydon and Enfield. This expansion has significantly broadened Shpresa's reach and influence within the community. In addition to running the programme as planned, Shpresa exceeded its Initial dellverables by hostin8 several major events and creatin8 valuable opportunlties for leaders to showcase their work. This has not only enhanced the visibility of Shpresa Programme but has also provided emergin8 leaders with platforms to present their ideas and achievements. The main activltles run vla thls project indude: delivering 10 in-depth training sessions on leadership, encompassing key facets of successful leadership. The project has exceeded expectations in enhancing skills, knowledge and confidence, promoting civic and political participation understanding, expanding networks and raising awareness of ASC and DEC contr11On5 and needs;
Pa8e 116 giving participants access to a diverse range of networks and relakn'onships, including one to one mentorlng from social actlvists/community leaders from Citizens UK, SSE, local councillors, and more. empowerlnE ASC and DEC community members to effectively ralse their voices. The project's substantlal impact on network development ensures that participants can engage wfth various stskeholders to advance their social action objectives: and asslsting seven leaders with applying for the Start-up Programme at School for Social Entrepreneurs ISSE). Four of theapplicants successfullyqualifiedforthe next stage. Each place In the Pfo£ramrne comes wlth a grant of £3.000. 10 leaders of the first cohort had a dedlcated space at the SSE. Whlle the projert has made sl8nfflcant progress in building networks, It's Important to recognlse and address additional challenges that women, partfcularly those with family care8lvlnB re5ponslbilltles, may encounter. Tlme constralnts and famlty dutfes can hinder their full partlclpation In networkSn8 activlties, whlle speclfic communlty Issues, such as lack of affordable childcare or Ilmlted transportation access, can fvrther compound these challenges. Acknowledging and actively mltf8attng these barrlers Is essentlal lo ensurln8 that all partlclpants can effect6vely benefit from project opportunlth'es. Leadership involves harnesslng both personal experlences and acqulred knowledge to drlve meaningful chan8e. Thls cohort's slogan. Yurn dreams Into reallty, anger into falrness, problems Into solutions." captures the essence of thls approach. By Integrat6ng ihelr Ilved experlences with the skllls and insights they've galned, leaders develop a deeper understandlng of others and dlscover effectr've ways to address challen8es. It's about transformln8 Ilfe's dlthcultles Into opportunlties for posltlve Impact and makin8 a dlfference In the world. Several other tralnln8s, soclal actlons and related aclivltles were held thls year including". 8ulldln8 your soclal enterprlse sesslon: The event, hosted at the Kosovan Emba$5y, focused on The Power of Free Employments" and Team Oynamlcs. Variou5 entities participated In the dlscusslons. Legal Structure Session: A unique workshop led by 5SE CEO Alistair Willson. Thls workshop offered a fantastic chance to learn, develop and network with peers who share slmllar passlons. Topics covered included an overview of the SSE organisations, sepiices and fundlng opportunltles. Learnlng centred around en8a8in8 Stakeholders to rally 5UPPOrt and 5harlng a vlslon for a thrivlng start. Celebratlon of Albanian Independence Day 2023: Thls yearfs celebfatlon took on a new dimension as the ALSAteam had the privilege of attending the Shpre5a Programme's'Shiftln8 the Narratlve" event. On thissi8nificantdayshpresajoined others in celebratingthe incredible work of its community. Citizen5 UK Trainin85 and Campaigns: Collaborating With Citizens UK, Shpresa's leaders partlclpated in trainin8 5ession5 on campaIgnS. listenlng campaigns, political literacy and community organisin8. Leaders, Involvement in Campaigns: Leaders had hand5 on experience by actively participating In campalgns led by Citizens UK {Telco), including health inequalities, housing and free bus fare for Asylum Seekers. Many leaders actively took part in rnobilising and engaging in discusslons with Transport Deputy Mayor of London Seb Dance and took part in the London Mayoral Candldate Assembly or8anised by Citizen UK.
Pa8e 117 Free Bus Fare for Asylum Seekers Campaign- In a resoundin8 call for justice and inclusivity, advocates for free bus travel for Shpresa Programme members united outside London City Hall on February 8th. Thelr collective mission: to deliver a Valentine's Day card to Deputy Mayor Seb Dance, urging a meanin8ful dialogue on fair I5 travel policies for Shpresa Programme members. This powerful action was a collaborative effort with Citizens UK, amplifying the volS and concerns of marginalised comrnunities. Representatives from Shpresa Programme, alongside community leaders from the VOICES Network. Sufra NW London, Citizens UK and other OfEanisations stood in solidarity for this vital cause. London Mayoral candidateAssembly,' Oversoparticipants from Shpresa Programme including Leaders from the Leadership Pro8ramme participated in the London Mayoral Candidate Assembly organlsed by CStlzen UK. During the event, Sadiq Khan Ilstened attentively to the requests put forth by the London Citizen Core Campalgns, whkh focused on issues such as LSvlng Wage, Housing, Citlzenship and Integratn. Celebratlng Successes of the First Cohort and Launch of the Second Cohort Event 114/09120231: Event Led by the Leadeis of the First Cohort and attended by 70 participants, Celebratin8 "Leading Albanian Women": Accommodated by The Embassy of the Republlc of Kosovo in London, a cultural afternoon dedlcated to female figures with the meaningful tltle "Leadln8 Albanian Women. was held. An event organlsed In cooperatlon between Shpresa Programme and 8AAA An81o-Albanian Assoclatlon of Artlsts In the Unlted Kln8dom. School for Soclal Entrepreneurs ISSEI Festlval - 20 and 21 September 2023: 10 leaders from the first cohort attended the SSE Festival. Seven leaders applled for the Start-up Programme at SSE. Four of the applicants successfully quallfied for the next stage. Hands-on Experlence: For Instance, Seigey. a partlclpant Sn thos cohort of leaders, recognlsed the need to address the splrltual gap wlthln the Ukrainlan communlty In the UK. Consequently, he Inltlated Spiritual services at SKC whlle maintaining connections wlth Shpresa, leading to the engagement of four Ukrainian5 in the Leadership Programme. Sergey also establishéd collaboratlon with Homes for Ukraine at Barking and Dagenham council. Shpresa also worked on a partnershlpwlth New Europe•ns UK on a project where Shpresa embedded democracy education into its pro8ramme of educatlon for members of the communlty. 5hpresa provlded a Eulde on votin8 to EU citizens and other relevanl and usefvl informatlon to its members, The Chlldren and Youn8 People's ICYPI Proiect helps Iwild confidence and 5elf.esteem through actlvltles such as trainin8, dance, sports, leadership and more. Its 8oal Is to enhance the lives, educatlon and wellbeing of Albanlan-speaking children from refugee, asylum-seekin8 and mi8rant backgrounds, while ensurin8thelrvolces are heard. Youn8 people involved In the CYP Project have the chance to meet re8ularly in a supportive environment, where language barriers and cultural dlfferences don't hinder particlpation, engagement or a sense of belonging. Participants appreciate that these spaces are local. sale. welcom1. non-judgmental. warm and, In some cases, offer hot meals. Children and young people services were accessed this year by 372 young people. Shpresa's motto is "All together, we can make a difference." Shpresa continually reinforces the importance of collaboration with the young people whose lives It seeks to improve, as well as wlth specialist organi5ations. funders and other key stakeholders. This collective effort is essential to creating lasting change in the INes of Albanian youth.
Pa8e 118 Shpresa approach to working with young people incde$- identification and targeted support. engagement and empowerment through culturally friendty activities and information sessions,. critical child-centred mental health and wellbein8 support; referrals to child-focused advice and advocacy services; leadership development and 'Volce of the Child/Young Person, empowerment pro8rammes; and sharin8 experiences and insi8hts with broader communlties. Shpresa Programme works closely In partnershlp wlth other or6anisatlons to deliver thls programme and others, but Shpresa faces ongoing challenges in maintainin8 the same level of support and en8a8ement. particularly with regardsto fundlng. Shpresa is exploringotherways to keep some ofthe activities runnin& including contrSbution from members to run the Albanian school project, Unaccompanled Asylum-Seekln£ Chlldren's and Yo¢w People Project "Br••kln8 the Chalns" has continued to dellver a wlde range of servkes to ourtargetgroup ofyoun8 people. For the young people Involved In thls project, trafficklng Is a constant shadow. Most of the youth Shpresa supports have faced traffickln8 In their home counlrles, during their Journey to the UK or even after arriving in the UK. Unfortunately, desplte accessln8 SUPPOrt servlce5 and legal advlce, the threat of exploltation and traffickln8 perslsts. All the youn8 people Shpresa works wlth have experlenced trauma or possess vulnerabllltles that put them at a helghtened rlsk of further exploltatfon. A key focus of Shpresa's work Is to reduce thls rlsk as much as p0551ble by bulldlng the young people's self-esteem and resilience, while providing trustworthy* reliable support services tallored to thelr needs. Face to face activitles were delivered from: Forest Gate Youth Club- Every Monday 6-9pm Norwood Junction Youth Club- Every Friday 6-9pm The Ark In Edmonton- Saturdays 10am- Ipm BLC Barkln8- saturda 10am- Ipm Frenford centre Ilford - Saturdays 2pm - 5pM Mansfield House-Thursday 4- 6pm and Sunday 10am- 2pm Youth club sessions are deslgned to provide a welcoming space where young people can come tO8ether to learn, connect and grow, f05tering a sense of communlty and support among asylum seeker5 and youn8 individuals. Shpresa provides informative sesslons and Immlgratlon advice, ensurin8 that young people have access to essential information and support as they navigate the complexities of the asylum process. These sessions also feature cultural enrichment activities aimed at celebratin8 diversity and fostering a sense of bek>n8in8. Shpresa's Come Dine with Me" project is particularly enjoyed by young people, offering traditional food, lovingly prepared by our volunteers, that reminds them of their homeland aroma, of their favourite dish from their mothers and creating a family-like atmosphere where everyone feels valued, SUPPOrted, and included rather than just a community. These 5e55ions are also about fun and connectin8.
Page 119 Regular onllne servlces include: Immlgration night. in partnership with MiCLU- Every Wednesday 5-8pm Mental health support sessions, In partnership with CDI - Every Thursday 5-8pm Other activities include: Fllms- short films which have asylum seekers. lives and experiences in focus, such as LOHST, mental health Campaigns - listenlng campalgns with local authorities (fostering) and advocacy Campaigns with Citizens UK (Free Bus for Asylum Seekers) Leadership Pro8ramme - delivered by different professionals 5harin8 their experience and expertise Kazzum - creatlvlty sesslons Free Engllsh classes, etc. Training Befrlendlng At the heart of Breaking the Chains is the voice of the youn8 people themselves. Their Insights are cruclal In shaplng Shpresa's approach, ensuring that Shpresa effectively meets the needs of these vulnerable chlldren. Peer support is key, and this is being provided byvery committed volunteers and tralned Immlgratlon and mental health champions. Training provided by MICLU is key to ensurlng voung people are equlpped and able to co-facilitate youth advocacy sessions, sharlng learnlng and knowledge wlth thelr peers. Maln partnershlps for th15 prohect are: MICLU legal centre - The complex nature of Immigratlon laws, ¢han8es and procedures presented ? hu8e challen8e, partlcularly when provldlng legal athice and support to asylum seekers. Ensurln8 accurate and up to date Snformation, navi8atiNd bureaucratic hurdles and advocatin8 effectively on behalf of client5 required speclallsed expertise and dose collaboration with legal professionals. However, Shpresa have efficiently mana8ed all these challenges with the help of the partners from the MICLU le8al centre who have achieved a number of wccessful results from the cases advocated. A total of 95 youn8 people have been supported by MICLU durin8 the year. Croydon-Drop-In ICDI) Addresslng the dthe psychosocial needs of Shpresa's youn8 people, Includlng past trauma, mental health concerns and soclal isolation, posed si8nificant challen8es. Provldlng adequate emottonal support and resources to promote holistic well-bein8 required a multl- dlsclpllnary approach, involving mental health professionals lour partners from CDI) and community support networks, such as peer support, befriendln8, etc. Kazzum- Shpresa continues the partnership io work with young people who experlenced a hiEh level of adverse chlldhood experiences and uses creative activities as a means of bullding confidence, communication skills, en8agement in learning and developing healthy relationships wlth others. Local authorlties - Shpresa delivered a foster care infomiation session in partnershlp wlth Barkln8 Councll to help encourage more Albanian families to become foster carets. ECPAT UK- Shpresa have been in discussion for a joint referral pathway in which ECPAT UK can refer young people to Shpresa and Shpre5a can refer young people to them. according to the need5 of the youn8 people. TELCO, Citizens UK- Shpresa continues the partnetship on running advocacy campaigns in support of people who have chosen the UK to be thelr home. Llverpool and Southampton Unlversltles- Shpresa continued the partnership in conducting research on the 'right to work for asylum seekers. and 'Co-Developing Traurna - informed guidelines,.
Pa8È 120 One of the athvltles organised as part of this programme was an incredible and impactful session at Liverpool University with the LOHST (Lives on Hold Our Stories Told) project team. An amazing presentation and workshop, following up on the previous session at Southampton University and contributing to their research project on the impact that Home Office delays could have on youn8 people's lives and mental heahh. 12 young people attended the workshop. Shpresa held an event for parliamentarians on 22 May 23, called "Unsofe.. Understonding why people 17eeAlbonlo- A brlefi"ngforpeers" led by the vokes of the Breaking the Chalns Immigration Champlons. The Immlgratlon Champlons had the opportunity to discuss the pressin8 issue of Albanlan asylum seekers and refugees In the UK arbd the proposed Illegal Mlgratlon Blll with Members of Parllament, aronesses and Lawyers. It was an empowerin8 experlence and resulted In 8aroness Llster t4blln8 an amendment to the Illegal Mlgrat6on Blll and deslgnatSon of Albania as a 'safe state,. Thls created hope that the discussions inltiated by ihese young Albanlans will spark posltive chan8e, leadlng to a more equltable asylum system that upholds the principles of justice and solidarity. The sesslon wos ottended by 20 people,, 7 were young people. Case study - Tlml Tlml was 15 years old when hls mother dled, and hlsfather developed serlous mental health problems. Timi had to work to earn money so he, his lather and youn8er brother could eat, He was sent to work In a mlne mana8ed by a crlmlnal gang. When the police rnided the mlne he and another chlld were Inltlally arrested and then released. The crlmlnal gang accused the two chlldren, Includln8 Tlmi, of Informin8 on them. They were both beaten and left for dead. The other chlld dSed of hls Injurles but Tlml survlved, albeit wlth permanent scars from the knife wounds and burns. Tlml begged people In the vllla8e to help hlm leave the couniry and was Lyought to the UK In the back of a lorry and then set to work, 12 hours a day. 7 days a week, on a bulldln8 slte, by the men who told hlm he owed them £20,000 for hls Journey to the UK. HIS mental health deteriorated dramatlcally, and he began to hear hls dead mother speaklng to hlm telllng him he shouldjoin her. He fled from the bulldlng site and made serlous attempt to end hls Ilfe. He was found unconscious by members of the publlc who called an ambulance. Tlml was detalned In hospltal under the Menlal Health Act as he was such a rlsk to hlmself. Staff from Shpresa Programme were contacled by clinicians at the hospital, and they vislted Tlml wlth a solicitor from Breaklng the Chalns. Over many weeks T#nl developed a relat5onshlp of trust wlth Shpresa staff and his Breaking the Chains solicitor wrote to the Home Office, who have now accepted that Tlmi was trafficked and are offerln8 him some support. Timi has no capaclty to Instrucl a lawyer and has been dlagnosed wlth psychosls, so Breaklng ihe Chalns staff from MICIU and Shpresa Programme are workin8 together to secure asylum for Timl and to help hlm be8ln to recover from his trafficking experlences. The case study above is based on the actual clrcumstances of a young person accesslnB Breaking the Chains, services. However, due to hls vulnerability andthe risk to him, some details have been changed slightty to protect his identity and prlvacy. The same has been applied to all case Studies throughout this report. The Heritsge Project - keeping heritaEe in the community, inspirin8 people and creating a legacy. Shpresa has yet again delivered a successfulty project engaging 12 young people in a pro8ramme designed to help them connect with their roots and collect stories and traditions. It included delivery of trainingp bringing people together to cook and share food. visits to heritage sites. attending events and coordinating one-t(Fone inlerviews.
Pa8e 121 'Sharlng the Model, aims to share Shpresa's leamlng model of working and resources with other user- led groups to maximise Shpresa's impact and play an active role In soclety. Shpresa also wants to get the voices and lived experiences ol its members In research, so It has been worklngwlth Southampton, Liverpool, UCL, UEL and York University on research projects. As part of thls work, Shpresa also runs Refugees helping refuKees: Ukralnlan befrlendlng and support project. 78 people in total have benefited from thls project. Shpresa offered a holistic package of support that contributed towards improved access to servlces and support, Improved health and wellbein8 and improved communlty cohesion. Members of the Ukrainian community attended coffee mornin8S, SUPPOrt groups, one-to-one befrlendln8, volunteering opportunities, advice, a(fvocacy and slgnposting, employment support, heafth walks and outlngs. Activities and events provided opportunities for people to en8a8e in a laxIngand cheerful envlronment, enjoy and celebrate culture and achlevements and feel as if they belon8 as well as get en8a8in8 in social actions and bulldin8 reslllent communlty and soclal networks. From a member of Ukralnlan communlty group: heft I got to London the first feeling l experienced was a sense of dlsconnection or being "out of place" I was homeless, dependant on the goodwlll of strangers, I was a relu8ee. After settling in Newham and findin8 accommodation through a sponsor, I met staff from Shpresa Pro8ramme. Since my journey with Shpresa started, I received support for school for my chlldren. I met other women whose storles Insplred me, and I become a volunteer. Volunteer tralnln8 and experlence gave me the opportunlty to come out of my buddle and understand real Issues face by other people Ilke me. I have partlclpaied In some other tralnln8s whlch Shpresa has or8anlsed In collabor8tfon wlth partner organisatlon5. 1 also enrolled In a Leadershlp Programme and am very exclted about all these opportunities that came through. It is a dream for me to become part of leaders who are Interested to brlng a change on Improvlng mental health, Inte8ratlon, domestlc vlolence, herltaBe, youn8 people. LGBTQI etc." Erner8•n provlslon alm5 to provlde rellef for financlal hardshlp, by provldln8 flnanclal sUPPOrt, clothes, food and access to data tothe m051 vulnerable 8roups byworkin8 in partnership with partners and local authorltles, such as Newham Councll. aothes have been moslly donated by members of the communlty and Shpresa also recelve toys for Chrlstmas vla ELBA ToyAppeal, Users are referred to food banks and donations have been received from PZ food donations plarform and GLA, Durln8 thls year Shpresa dlstributed £7,000 in Tesco and Asda vouchers Pfovided by Newham Councll for Newham families. Jack Petchey Achl•vement and Leader Award Scheme, awardlng every year 24 youn8 people and leaders who have gone above and beyond not onty academica1/profesS10na1IY but had a personal accompllshment, broke barriers or are outstandin8 team players. The nominations and awards create POsStive role models and recognition of dedicailon and hard work and are a way to say thank you to these incredible young people and adults. Jack Petchey Award nomination by youn8 people- E has been nominated for the Jack Petchey award for hi5 Social skills and can-do attitude. He is a very positive young person, works very well in a team and takes initiative and lead5 on new thin8s. He 15 very helpful durin8"Come Dine with Me. sessions and takes on any tasks with Ereat responsibility. He is very responsible about looking after the environment, takes ensure living rooms are tidy after dinner very seriously and encourages Others to do the same. He is a positive guy and has been invofved in several activities at Shpresa, where he had a positive impact on the group. His pears admire his modesty and humbleness and look up at him as a role model.
Pa8e 122 Overall data for 2023-24 3,200 users have benefited from services provided byshpresa Programme, IncludSng events, seminars, weekly groups and workshops, emergency services and other adivlties. They: are better informed and have greater understandln8 of their rlghts and responsibilities; have increased support networks: feel more confident/sell-assured: feel safe and have a positive sense of identltyl and have recefved dlrect support from the organisation dependlng on thelr needs. Moreover: 135 users accessed volunteerln8 OPPOrtunlties and reported improvement on skills and work experience. 25 have undertaken accredlted trainin& 557 adults, mostly women, have reduced isolation, increased their knowledge and taken part regularly in weekly sessions and one-tone support; more than 80% of regular users experience Improved health and wellbeln8; 372 ASYP have taken part on weekly youth activlties; 24 ASYP recelved a Jack Pelchey Achievement Award, and more than 120 famllles were supported wlth food vouchers. Fundralsln8 Fundln8 secured: BBC Children In Need - 3 year grant for looked after chlldren In Croydon Au8USt 2022, recelved anotherthree year 8rant up to Au8USt 2023; TNL - A S year grant towards We Can woject almln8 to reduce lonellness, Increase soclal contact, employment related skllls, learn about Ilfe In UK and Improve mental health reslllence and wellbeln8 of women from the ASC. TNL upllft was added to support wlth cost of Ilvln8 crlsls; Henry Smlth Charlty- 2 year grant startlng Oct 23 for the wornen advocacy projert; LB 8arklng & Dagenham- A contrart for provldlngservlces to deliver a targeted pro8ramme to work wlth young people io Au8 23; London Youth - to deliver the Herilage Programme Jan to June 24;. East End Community Fund lo run Ukralnlan befrlendln8 and support project. one off 8rant; TNL Community Fund- Awards for All- To develop Shpresa's Communlty Café; My London Programme- Provldes engagement wlth youn8 people typically underrepresented on youth forums and leads them through a pro8ramme of education In soclal action, leadership and development: Paul Hamlyn Foundation MICLU led partnership- Addresses challen8es in the area of mi8ration and InteBration, provldlng advocacy capaclty and trainin8 and capacity buildin8 sessions with Albanian speakin8 children and young people. Fundin8 ends March 2025: The Jack Petchey Foundation - Youth Achievements and Leadership Awards. Thls Is revlewed every year on subrnission of award reports: Trust for London - 3 year fundin8 Starting June 2022 for a programme to create new leaders from the Albanian Speaking Community: University of Liverpool- Totrain and support Ioyoungunaccompanied asylum seekers IYUAS) in research methods and ethics for the purp)se of this woject, SUPPOrt them and facilltate access to up to 80 YUAS respondents as part of the research. We are open to other opportunities in research work with Universities.
Pa8e 123 Violence Reducts'on Unlt- Stronger Futures Programme- To work wSth young people from the Albanian speaking refugee and asylum seeker community and provide specialist counselling. youth leadership programme, supplementary school and youth diversionary activities. Funding extended to May 2023. PHF shared ground- One year fundingto 5UPPOrt operational emergency 5UPPOrt and fundinE wlll contribute to fundraising and management capacily andlor sUPPOrt for wellbeing of staff, volunteers and ser4ice users: TNL MICLU led partnership - To work on "Breaklng the Chains" prolect addressing challenges Inthe area of migration and inte8ration, providing advocacycapacity and training and capacity buildin8 sessions with Albanlan speakln8 children and young people. Funding ends Sep 2024; AB Charitable Trust from Jul 23, fundlng has been extended to July 2027 To 5UPPOrt the or8anisation's runnin8 Costs and work wilh young people; Access to work - PA to Ihe CEO and travel costs up to December 2026 as long as needs do not change; Money A&E- Grown your own advice partnership: LCF-VAWG cost of livin8 fund to support women and 8lrls from mlnorlty ethnic backgrounds usin8 various interyentions and programmes; GLA Mi8rant advice fund - Providing dlrect support to youn8 ml8ranl Londoners throu8h advocacy, peer support and drop In speclallst support, ended May 2024; Charlty bank- Towards the buiklin8 and core costs, one off grant; Clty Brldge - 2 year funding started Apr 23 towards the Leadershlp Programme, extended for another year; New Europeans partnershlp- To educate on votlng and olher rlghts durln8 2023-24; and Our monvi Newham - Vouchers supportlng Newham famllles. Vouchers are offered by our rnoney Newham based on avaSlablllty of funds. Fundlng Shpresa's Work Shpresals aware that the fundlng cllmate Is challen8ln8 for small to medlum slzed NGOS. Shpresa ha5 been prudent In drafting Its budget for the current financlal year and has the capaclty to reduce planned expendtture In Ilne wlth the pace at whlch Its meets Its fundraisin8 tar8ets. Shpresa wlll continue to: Maintain and develop its positive lationShip with charitable trusts and foundations. Shpresa Is dellEhted that, in spite of the increased demands on many of ils funders, it has contfnued to beneflt from grants from maTby of the major trusts and foundations includln8: Trust for London, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Henry Smith. The City Bridge Trust, BBC Chlldren in Need {small and malnl, Lloyds Foundation, Reaching Communities 8rants, Greater London Authorlly, Mopac VAWG, Barkin8 and Dagenham Council, London Youth, Jack Petchey Foundation etc, Develop the potential for further slatutory funding, particularly in Newham, Croydon, Brent, Redbrid8e and earkln8 and Dagenham Whe Shpresa is workin8 Wlth unaccompanied asylum- seeking children and where it has been encouraged to appty for statutory funding. Maximise Shpresa's potential to generate its own income. Shpwesa Is workln8 towards the refurbishment of the buildin& once completed Shpresa will be able to generate income from the building. 5hpresa also continues to run training programmes for professionals and other stakeholders working with unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. fvlaintain prudent financial controls. reviewing risk at each board meeting and maklng the necessary adjustments in line with income secured. Develop Shpresa's pilot projectonworkingwith new refuges andseekingto build new partnerships.
Pa8e 124 Quality Assurances Shpresa has worked towards achievlng AQS {adVI quality mark) and received the certlficate In September 2023. Pollcles Shpresa's pollcles are reviewed re8ularty, and any changes or updates approved yearly.
Pa8e 125 Shpresa's Plans for 2024 -2025 Shpresa is planning to continue to provide services that respond to the needs of the Albanian speaking community in the UK. Listening Hearlng what Shpresa's users tell us and actively responding to the needs by buildlng partnerships and fundraising to provide services needed. A learnlng organisation that listens and respond5 to members of the Albanlan speakln8 community and other mlnority communltles. Increase Outreach: Expand Shpresa's work natiomvlde vla dlgital plarform5. Make better use of the soclal media. Build new partnerships reflectin8 the need for specialist servlces for members of the Albanlan speaking community in UK. Secure fundin8 to sustaln services and increase capacity and provislon. Shpre53 wants to see a dlfference In the communlty: The Albanlan communlty across London belng confident, better off, well inte8rated, and well establlshed. No vlolence or abuse elther wbthin Ihe communlty or between Albanians and others. Shpresa's service users bein8 aware and confident in using lotal servlces, Includln8 employment opportunlties and aware of their righis. Hosting communits'es to en8a8e more wlth Albanlan culture and 8et Albanlans more InvoSved In other communitles and ihe local communlty. Shpres• w•nts to be vlewed as: A carln8 and posltive place for migrant communltles to 8row and achleve, Challen8ln8 and proleclinB the rlghls of all our users. Wldely reco8nlsed for Ils knowledge and expertlse In worklng wlth the Albanlan communlty, addres51ng thelrvarious needs, and stren8thenln8 thelr posltfon In soclety. Influenclng and Informlng local and national practice on how to work wlth and 5UPPOrt a speciflc communlty. Shpresa wlll contlnue to: Develop In person projects and servlces based on Ilstenln8 to those wlth lived experiences and settlng up partnerships wSth speclallst organisations for mental health, benefits advlce, Imml8ratlon, employment and respond tothe identlfled needs, almlng to reach more London borou8hs. Offer onllne provision of services to reach people where they are, Provide one to one support to those affecled by Covid 19 and other catastrophise. Add55 the different needs of arrivals from EU and provide relevant support. Support models transferrable to othercommunities and vulnerable people, with an increased number of Shpresa members active in the wider local communlty, including campaigning. I ncrease networks and partners. Narrow the dlgital gap, provide systems and processes to enable better communication. Regularly monltor and evaluate its service5 internally and externally.
Pa8e 126 Shpresa will build on learnin& to continue to build a presence and to deliver in a flexlble Shpresa continues providin8 a hybrid working space. which 15 a combination of a di8ital space and physical space. Shpresa is developing projects that irKrease the use of the local parks as much as local faclllties. The volces of Shpresa's (ommunlty members should be heard and be able to drlvo pollcy chanie: Continue to build relationships wilh different univefsities and other stakeholders to brin8 the Ilved experiences of members of the cornmunity to thelr attentlon and work with them to produce research. Celebrate 5u¢ce55e5 and share leIng. Hold at least flve main celebration events throughout the year. Leadershlp trnlnln8'. Run the tralnlnE pro8ram for emer8ln8 leaders In the communlty based on Ilved experlences. 10 Refurtslshmentj of first home of shp14 Pro8ramme. Manslleld House Shpresa is working on refurbish ihe buildin& currently on the ground floor, which once flnlshed would be a hub and communlty café for mlnorlty communltles, The bulldln8 development wlll contlnue In stases towards creat6n8 affordable offlces. tralnlng rooms and 50clal houslng. FINANCIAL ReviEW The Charlty Is reportln8 a surplus for the year of £105,50812023: £172,921). Income amounted to £659,531 (2023: £673.896). Donations totallln8 £3,356 (2023: £96,448) were recelved from our supporters, rental Income of £l,11012023: £6,840) and grant Income of £618,091 12023: £561,089) to 5UPPOrt our project actSvlty. Fees for servlces amounted to £21,17912023: £8.9341. Our runnlng costs, Includlng project artlvlty, amounted to £554,02312023: £500,975). The Statement of Financial Activitie5 on pa8e 29 summari5es the incoming re50urce5 and maln areas of expendlture. The Balance Sheet on page 30 shows the Charity's assets and liabilities at 31 March 2024. RESERVES POLICY Trustees have a designated reserve which currently stands at £150,000 and covers three - six months of committed expenditure. However, the Board is looking at increasing this balance every year untll they can cover up to six months of committed expenditure.
127 RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TRLKSTEES The trustees (who are also director of Shpresa Programme for pu(tM)ses of the company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and UK Accounting standards Iunited Kingdcxn generally AeceFed Accounting Practice). Company law requires th8 truslees to prepare financial ststements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the chafitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expendrture. of the charitaNe Company for that period. In preparing these flnancial statement& Trustees are fequired to: Sele¢t guitable accounting pICieS and then 8PK them consistently; Observe the methods and wncipals in the Chanties SORP. Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and pfudent,. stste whether applicable UK Accountsng standards ha been followed, subject to any material departures dlsclosed and explained In the financial statements: Prepare the financial statement on the going concem basls unless it Is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue to ope(ate. The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with the reasonablg accuracy at any time the financial positi of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial stalements comply with the Companies Act 2006, They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charltable company and hertt lor taking reasonable steps for prevention and detsction of fraud and other irregvlarities. This report hos been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice.. Accounting and Reporting by Charities FRS 102 {January 2019) and in accordance wth the special provisions for small companles under Part IS of the Companies Act 2006. Signed on behaff of the Trustees Shannon Grlffln Chair Approved by the trustees on
128 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF SHPRESA PROGRAMME Independent examlneffs report to the trustees of Shpre8a Pmgramm (h8 Companv) I report to the charlty trustees on my exaff#nation of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2024. Rwn8lbllttle8 and ba818 of rewt As the eharitvs trustees of the Company (and also its directcrfs for the purposes ol Company lawl you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2CK)6 Act'l. Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Conwany are not requlred to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligjble for Independent examination. I feport In respect of my examination of your chanty's 8ccounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act'l. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commisgon under section 145151 {b) of the 2011 ACL Indépondent axAmln•r'8 statsméTrt Since the company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of 8 bt)dy listed In section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am member of ICAEW, which Is one of the ltyted bodies. I have completed my examinatlon. I ¢Th1rM that no matteTr have ci)me to my attention In connectlon wlth the examination wvlng me cause lo believe: 8ccountlng records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act,. or the accounts do not accord with Ilv)se records: or the accounts do not comply vllh the &countlngrequlrements ofsectlon 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounls w've a true and fair view which is not 8 matter considered as part of an independent examination; or the accounts have not been prepared in a¢cord8n¢e with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practi for accounting arKI p0.ng by charlties lapplicable to charities preparing their accounts in ac(x)Tdance with the Financlal Reporting standard applicable in the UK arKJ Republic of Ireland {FRS 102)]. I have no concerns and have come acioss no other matters in connection with the examin8tion to which attention should be drawn in this rert in cder to enable a proper understanding of Ihe accounts to be ched Jeremy Kits BA FCA Prime Chartered Accountants Comer Oak l Homer Road Solihull 8913QG Dat8. ai /KI/ ax)aLt
129 (REGISTERED NUMBER: 04692860) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Uncorporatlng the INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 Notes InoDme from: Donatlor6 3.356 3.356 96,448 96,448 Incomo Irom ch8rli8bl8 actlvltlès.. Grants Fees Other 618.091 618,091 21.179 15.lY)O 561,089 561.089 8,934 425 20.819 15.0Tr) 8,934 415 Other ir8dlng 8Ctlvlty: Rerrtal Income Investment Income i.iio 795 i.iio 795 6,840 170 6,840 170 Total Infyjmo 618.451 41,080 659.531 561,089 112,80T 6T3,896 Exp•ndltuM on: R8isln£ funds Charliable aciivitle9 6.855 534.568 6.855 547.168 5,483 473,555 5,483 495.492 12.600 20,937 Tolal Eyndtturn $4L423 12.6IXI 554,023 480,038 20,937 500,975 Not Incom• & n•t rnthmonl of nd8 lor the ya•r 77.028 28A08 105.508 81,051 91,870 172,921 Trarofvr of fvndB 116.166) 16.166 1&166 11&166) ReC¢rll•tIOn of fiJrKI& Totsl funds brought fon¥ar¢J 185.953 377.984 563.937 88.736 302.280 391,016 T)t41 fvndl urrl•d frJrnrd 14 246,815 422.630 669.445 185,953 377.984 563,937 The Statement of Fina181 Actlvities includes all galns and losses recognlsed in the year, All Incoming re30Ufces and resr¢eS expended derive from continuln8 a¢tlvltles.
l)age 130 (REGISTERED NUMBER: 04692860) LANCE SHEEf AT 31 MARCH 2024 Tangible assets io 794.616 1,665 Totsl Flxed Pae•ts 794,616 1,665 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash at bank an¢J in hand li 11.540 541,640 13,138 592,877 Totsl Current A88et8 553.180 606,015 CURRENT LIABILMES CREDITOR&. Amounts falllnl due wlthln ¢ 12 (65,0631 (43, T43) NEf CURRENT ASSErs 488.117 562,272 TOTAL Er8 L&4 CURRENT LIIBIUTIES 1,282.733 563,93T Cr•dIt. more than om y•or 12 (613.288) NETASSETS 669.445 563,937 CHARITY FUNDS Restricted Funds Unrestricted Fund3: Desi£nated Goneral 14.17 246,815 185.953 150, 272.630 150.000 227,984 422.630 377,984 TOTAL CHARrrY FUNDS 669,445 563,937 The Trustees are satlsfled that the Company B entitled to exemption from the provislons of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act) relating to the audit of the financial statements for the year by virtue of section 477, and that no member or members have requested an audit pursuant to sectM)n 476 of the Act. The Trustees acknowledge their responslbilitles for. ensuring that the company keeps proper accounbng ¢tyd$ whlch comply with section 386 of the ACL and preparing financial statements whlch give a In and fair view of the state of affaits of the company as at the end of the financial year and of ils Fxofit or loss for the financial year in accordance with the requirements of sections 394 and 395, ar)d which otherwise comply with the iequirements of the Act relating to financial statements. so far as applicable to the company. These fin8ncial ststements have been prepared in accordance wlth the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies fegime. These financial statements were approved by the trustees and authonsed for issue on and are signed on their behaff by: /LJJ 2024 Shannon Griffin - Chair Hatixhe mushl . Treasurer
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 024 Cash flow from operatlng actMile8 112,732 141,029 C88h flow from Investlng aGtlvltlas: Interest received Fixed asset additions 795 1802,8801 170 (2,088) Net cash flow from investing actIlIeS 1802,085} (1,918) Cjsh fl¢w from flnanclng acUvAkn8: Loans received in the year Loan repayments in the year 645,C(Q 16,8841 Net cash flow from financlng activities 638,116 Net Increase In cash and cash equivalents in the year Cash and cash equivalents at the beginninE of the year 151,2371 592.877 139,111 453, 766 Totsl cooh oqulvalents at the errfl rfth8 >•fjr 541.640 592,877 Cash and cash equivalents consist of: Cash at bank anij in hand 541,640 592,877 Reconelll8tlon of ngt Incom? lo nat cjvh <)[alIng actMUe& Net movement in funds Interest receivable Depreciation Ilncrease)/decrease in debto IDecrease)/in¢rease in creditors 105,508 1795) 9.929 1.598 (3,5081 172,921 (170) 1.199 8,720 (41.641) Net cash fl(w from owratln8 aclm 112,732 141,029
11ge132 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THEYEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basb of prnrIng the flnanclal 8t8tWn)ts Shpresa Programme is a re&'stered charity in the Vnited Kingdom. The address of its prlncipal office Is given in the charity information on page l of these financial Staternen The nature of the charity's operations and principal activities are gJ'ven on page 2 of these financial statements. The charity constitutes a public benefit entsly as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Rep)rtin£ by Charities: Ststement of Recommended Practice appllcable to charities prepanng their accounts tn accordance with the Financial Reportlng Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102). the Charlties Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Ac¢ountlng PracCe es It appli85 from l January 2019. The financlal statements are prepared on a going concern ba5 urKler the historic81 cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial st8ternents are ppared in sterflng which Is the fun¢tlonal currency of the charity and rounded io the nearest pound. The significant accountlng pollcles applbed In the prepafation of these flnancial statements are set out below. These pollcles have b8en consistently applied to 811 years presented unless otherwise stated. Irme Income is recognised in the Stalement of Financial ktivities when the charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the item{si of income h8ve l)een met, it Is probab18 that the income wlll b8 received, and the amount can be measured rellably. The followlng specif Sc pollcies are applied to partlcular categorles of Income: . . For donations to be recoO1)ised the charrty will been notified ol the amounts and the settlement date In writlng. If there are conditions attached lo Ihe donation and this requires 8 level of performance before enlitlement can be obtained. then income Is deferred untll those condltions are fully met or the fulfilment of those conditions is within the control of the charity and it probable that they wlll be fulfilled In the reportlng period. Income from grants Is recognised when the charity has entltlement to the funds, any p8rformance condltions attached to the want have l)een mel, it B probable that the income will be received. and the amount cen be measured rellably and is not deferred. Donated facilities 8nd donated professional services recognised as Income at their fair value when thelr economic benefit is probable. rt can to measured reliably the charity ha5 control over the item. Fair V81ue 18 determined on the basis ol the value of IfR gift to the chanty, for example the amount the charlty would be wllllng to pay In the ¢)pen market for such facilities and services. A correspondlng amount18 recognised in expenditure. No amount Is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP {FRS 1021. Further detail is oven in the Trustees. Annual Rewt, where relevant. Investment income is earned through holding assets for inlment purposes Such as term depo*l. Expendlture All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has t)een classifi'ed under activities that aggregate all costs related to any particular actiwty. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties: it is probable that the settlement will be required, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. It is Categlsed under the following headings:. Expenditure on charitsble actNities include those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. Other expenditure represents those rte$ [t falling into the categories above.
133 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POUCIES - ccffjtinued E¥pend5ture - contlnuod All categories of costs include both Costs that Can be allc¢ated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the actIty for which expendlture arose. 8upport Support costs are those thai assist the woth of the charity but do nol directly represent charftable activltles 8nd include premises costs, office costs. governance costs. administrative and p8yroS1 Costs. They are Incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objeets of Ihe charity. Where support costs cannot be directly attributed to particular activities. they have been all(*ted to expenditure on a basis which may be based on activiiy as represented by direct costs expended on that activity or based on a proportion of staff costs. The analysls of these costs hs Included In Note 5. Tanoble flx¢d ala• Depreciation is provid8(l al the foll(Minganntsal rales In orderto wrlte off each asset over Its estlmated useful Ilfe. Offlce equlpment Computer equipment 20% slfaiobt Ilne basls 33% 81rail line ba818 Assets costing less than £500 are not capitali88d. Tayatlon The charlty Is exempt from corporation t8x on its charitable 8Ctlvitle8. Fund •eeountlni Funds held by the charfty are either. Unrestrlcted general funds - these are funds without specifled purpose and are avallable as general funds. tksignated funds- these are funds set aslde by the tr(Istees out of unrestrlcted general funds for specific future purposes or projects. Restricted funds- are fvnds which can only be used foi particular restricted purpo8e8 Wlthin the objects of the charily. Restrictions arise when speCifd by the donor or when funds are ralsed lor parti¢ular restri¢ted purposes. Transfers between funds are made to cover <leftcits on individual restricted lunds and to recognlse fixed assets a¢qulred wlth restrfcted Income. but with further restrictAons on use. viithln unrestricted funds. Ponslon ec4ts and other pc6tr1r•rnOrrt bgnefts The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme a charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate. 2. DONATIONS nr Other Donations 3.356 3.356 96,448 96,448 3,356 3,356 96,448 96,448
134 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 3. GRANTS AB Charitable Trust Access to work Award8 for All Access Reach Fund 88rkin£ and Dagenham 88C Chlldren in Need 88¢ Small Grant TFL Reachlng Communltle8 Charlty Bank City Brldge Connect Newham East End Communlty Fund GLA - Intergeneratlon Programrne GL4 - Mlgrant advlce fund Henry Smlth Lloyds Banking Group London Youth Mopac VAWG Monéy A&E My London Programme New Europeans Our Newham Money Paul Hamtyn Foundatlon IMICLU led partnershlp) Paul Hamlyn Foundatlon TNL upllft TNL Reaching Communities The London Communlty Foundatlon VAWG The Jack Petchey Foundation The Renewal Programme TNL IMICLU led) Trust for London VRU - Stronger Futures Prograrnme 20.C(iO 6.572 20,OIy) 6.572 LO.000 16,720 io.oth) 51,829 2,836 33,783 10,000 16,720 10,000 51.829 2,836 33,783 33.783 29,980 42.5C 33.783 42,5(X) 6.883 6,(Y)O 2,0 6.883 6,000 2,000 3.OCA) 3.000 121.435 65.71X) 121.435 65.700 51.250 27.250 2,500 49,877 51,250 27.250 2,500 49,877 2.200 1.333 15,500 1.333 15,500 1.0 7.334 7,334 7.01)0 74.873 5,000 33.042 74.873 33.042 30,WO 19,168 68.140 15.932 15.932 19,168 68,140 29.997 29,997 7.2CKI 10,5CK) 10.500 47.937 81,OCQ 11,149 47.937 81.0 11.149 36,935 27.001 53,041 36.935 27,001 53.041 61&091 618.091 561.089 561,089 4. FEES AND OThER INCOMING RES(XJRCES FRIXI CHARITABLE P£TivmES Membershlp Fees Consultancy Other Income 415 &934 415 8,934 20.039 20.399 15.(YJO IS.OLY) 35.819 36.179 9.349 9.349
135 NOTES TO THE FINANCIALSTATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 5. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE Unless stated allocated on a usage bas18 Charftabl• Pdvftl•8 Dlrect Costs.. Wages and Salaries Employer's Nl Conlribulions Staff Money Purchase Penslon Costs Staff Training and Subsistence Sessional Staff Tralnlng Volunteef E¥penses Activiti8s, Trips and Performences Resouices and Web Consultatlon Events. Infom)atl(M & Publicily Equlpment and Materials Consultancy Evaluatlon Beneflclarles support Donatlons Partn8rshlp Payments {MICLLI 259,689 20.572 11.656 259.689 20,572 11.656 246,833 18,869 10.511 246,833 18,869 10.511 5.756 32,058 6.558 10.455 20.102 5.975 2.681 5,756 32,058 6.558 10,455 20.102 5.975 2,681 1,772 40,543 10,467 14.242 18.092 4,456 2,093 1.772 40,543 10.467 14.242 18,603 4.589 2.093 511 43 4.935 6.950 9,015 25.391 12.856) 2.079 6.950 9.015 25.391 11,817) 749 9.100 3,328 4.314 6,277 9.100 3,326 4.314 5.000 1,277 18.706 18.7C Support Costs.. Rent and Rale8 Utllltles Premlses Malntenance Insurance Printin& Po8t8g8 & St8tlon8ry. Publicity Telephone and Internet Consultancy Fees General Expenses Subscrlptlons 08pfeciation on Fixtures and Equipment Depreclatlon of land and bulldlngs Bullding purchase costs Charity bank loan interest Impacht Alchemy loan interest Trust for Loan interest payments 11.468 8.931 4.529 2.879 4.176 34 226 76 11.502 9.157 4,605 3,035 4.268 37.823 3,473 4,482 3,280 4.476 18,639 54,262 3,473 4,482 3,280 4,505 92 30 5.399 1,301 1.696 2,798 271 5.670 1.381 1.701 3,667 1,929 5,606 1,682 739 3,797 798 66 121 153 L,199 6.404 1.748 737 3,950 1,199 £929 8,000 11.448 22.243 1.444 8.779 10,550 22.243 1.444 8.779 17,020 17.020 Govemanco Costs: Fundraising costs Independent examiner's fees 6.855 876 6.855 3.696 5.483 193 5.483 2.233 2.820 2.040 Totsl 541.423 12.600 554.023 480.038 20.937 500.975
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THEYEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 6. NEf INCOMV(EXPENDITURE) Net incoming resources is stated after charwng: Depreciation and other amounts written off tangible assets Independent Examiner's fees 9.929 3.696 1,199 2,233 7. TRUSTEES AND KEY MAWEKW PERSONNEL REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES The trustees did not re¢eive any remuneration nor reimbursed expenses dunng the year12023'. £Nill. The charity considers its key management petsonnel comwise the 8oard of Trustees and its CEO. The total amount of employee benefrts including employer's pertsion contributions recelved by key management personnel were £61,307 {2023: £59,107). 2Q24 Grt)ss salarles Employer's n8tlonal Insurance Penslon costs 259,689 20.572 11,656 246,833 18,869 10.511 291,917 276,213 The average number of lull-ti'me equivalent emplo>ees during the >ear was 712023: 71. No employee recelved ernoluments of more than £60,000 pa12023: None). 8. PENSION COSTS The company operates a defirftd contribution penslon scheme In respeet of Its employees. Thè 8cheme and its assets are held by independent managers. The pension scheme charge represents contrlbutlons due from the compary and amounted to £11,656 (2023: £10,511>. Payments to be llected for 31 March 2024 £1,499 (2023: Nil). 9. TA¥ATION The company is a gIstered chaty and rt is considered that its actjwtles are such that no tsxatlon liability will arise.
137 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THEYEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 10. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSEfS in At i Agrll 2023 Additions Dispc6a At 31 March 2024 12,809 2.880 12,809 802.880 800.000 800.000 15,689 815,689 DEPR&IATION At i Aortl 2023 Charge for the Year Ellminate(l on diswsal 11,144 1.929 11,144 9,929 8.000 At 31 Mwch 2024 8,(K)O 13,073 21,073 NEf 800KVALUE At 31 Marth 2024 792,000 2.616 794,616 At 31 Marth 2023 1,665 1,665 IL DEBTORS Trade debtors Grant debto other debto Prepayments and accrued income 4, 728 7.948 5,000 3,410 3.592 11,540 13,138 12. CREDITORS Mnts fowlni due wlthln one yagr: Trade creditors Other ciedltors Taxatlon and social securlty Acciuals Thlrd Party Funds Grants received in advance Bank loans 34.342 32,664 120 7,405 3,334 220 1,500 4,041 231 121 24.828 65.063 43,743 kniounts f8lMr¢due after orn year: Bank loar6 613,288
E)a ly e 138 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 13. ANALYSIS OFA8SErs Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds 281.509 271,671 134.694) 130,3691 1613,288) 246,815 422.630 794.616 794.616 553.180 165,063) 1613,2881 669.445 14. MOVEMENT OF FUNlk8 Reth¢thl Fun( AB Charitable Trust Access to work Awards for All Barking 8nd Dagenham BBC Children in Need Charlty Bank City Bridge TFL Reachin8 Communitles E89t End Community Fund GLA - Migrant a(fvte and support Henry Smith Languages Campaign LCF-VAWG London Youth Money A&E My London Pfogramme New Europeans Our Money Newham Paul Hamlyn Foundation The Jack Petchey Foundatlon TNL IMICLU Iwj) TNL Uplift Trust for London VRU 20.000 6.572 2,123 6.572 17,877 10,000 3,607 18,153 10.000 3.607 18,153 29.980 42,500 33.783 29,980 42.500 67.566 7,125 119,748 31.029 33.783 4,125 121,435 65.700 1,687 46.214 64.729 11,543 64,729 29.997 2.200 1.333 15.500 1,360 29,997 1.333 6.500 1,360 7,000 62.493 6.300 47.937 17,028 49.867 {15,702) 10.685 14641 25,057 3,300 74,873 7,200 47,937 15.932 81.000 11.149 37.437 4,200 11,656 10.$60 15.431 Total ReBtrkted Funds 185.953 618.451 54L423 116.1661 246.815 Unre8tri6tsd nd. D8signat•d Funds: Working Capitsl Qenernl FuThJs 150,000 227.984 150.000 272.630 41,080 12,600 16,166 Total unr851rf Funds 377.984 41,080 12,600 422,630 Totsl FWMI 563.937 659.531 554.023 669.445
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 14. MOVEMENT OF FUN {cortinu8d) Purpo888 of Rtttrlctod Fund&" AB Charitable Trust To support organisabons running costs Access to Work PA to the CEO and travel costs Access Reach Fund Funds to use ftx survey and other pre building acqu61tlon costs TNL Communlty Fund . Awards for To develop Shpresa Communily Café LB Barking & D8genham To prode counselllng and soclal actlon activities, Including training 88C Children in Need B8C main grant-These funds are part of a three year grant to rrtovide a range of 8elNities for unaccompanied refugees focuslng on helpln8 these chlldren access support and have fun, 88C small grants- fund wovides fund to provide Supplementary school sessions to young peOe who Ilve In low Income households and have experienced a range of traumatic experiences, to Increase Ihelr Sellteem, encourage posilive relationships and engag8 them with school. Connect Newham To cover prolrfslon of an online l)efrlending project. East End Communlty Fund To run Refug Help'n8 Refugees: lJkr8inian Befriending and Support Project GLA Walklng and Qydlng Funds lo establish a walklng group speciflcally aimed at bringing together speakers of different age groups. to improve familiarlty with local are and increase physical filne&s and mental through gentle outdoor exercise GLA Migrant Advice fund Provlding direct support to >rung migrant Londoners through 3d¥ocacy, peer support and drop In speclallst 8UPPOrt. The Henry Smith Charity Funding the salary and the running costs of the project providing support to women and &rls in the Albanian4peakingcommunity in London. Languages Campaign This fund represents various donati5 towards the Albanian Language Campaign. London Youth To deliver sports and mn the 'GettinE A¢tive' programme MOPAC VAWG Grassroot Fund To provide holistic support. therapy and Iraining to Albanian-speaking women in Newham. Redbridge. Barking & Dagenham. Enfield and Haringey to reduce the likelihood of re-victimisation and improve their lrfe chances. My London Programme To engage wilh young people typically underrepresented on youth forums and lead them through a 6 month programme of education in social action. leadership and development.
140 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THEYEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 14. MOVEMENT OF FUNDS (conknued) Money A&E Grown w)ur own advi Newham Herftage To run nve played our Part. prOJl, keeping heritsge in the mmunty. inspiring people and creats'ng legacy Paul Hamlyn Foundation . MICLU let The grant is to sut4kn MICLU and Shpresa Programme's partnership Partnef5hlP prOJect'Breang the Chains - suThlving and thrivkng.. Funding will contribute to a Senr Advocate p)st at Shpresa arKI a Senior Caseworker at MICLU who will Identlfy, advise, surport and engage with Albann children/young people, 8mpow8nng them to take on the role of Immigr8tiw chaMons. Paul H8mlyn Foundation - Shared Ground One year funding to support Operational em8rgency support and funding will contribuie to fundraising and management capacity and/or support for wellbeing of staff, volunteers and service use. The Jack Petchey Foundation The88 funds were us811 to run different actNltles and events for young peOe and their parents so they could show thar achievements and present what they have leamt in front of a I11er udience. It also helped to build up confidence, Improve presentation and leadership skllls of these young people. Violenee A8ainst Women 8nd Girls cost of Ilving fund to 8UPPOrt women 8nd girls from fftinonty ethnK backgrounds using varlous inter•tionS and programs. The London Communlty Foundation TNL IMICLU led) mLulad partnership woject. to work on 'Breaklng th8 Ch8lns' projecl addresgng challenges in the area of migration and Inlegration. providing advocacy capaclty and tralnlng and capaclty building Seon5 wilh Albanian speaking children and young people TNL A 5 year grant towards We Can project almlng to reduce lonellness, incre8se social contaet, employment related skills, learn about lifo in UK and Improve mental health resilience and wellbelng of women the ASC. TNL Uplift Added on top of current furKling to assist with the cost of living CriS. Trust for London Three year funding for a new pfogramme to create leaders from the Albanian speakg community and other emerwng communrties through merbtoring and communlty organisin& University of Liverpool To train and support 10 young unaccompanied a$uM seekers IYUAS) in research methods and ethics for the purpose of this project. Sukvrt them and factlitate access to up to 80 YUAS resp(dents as part of the research. Violence Reduction Unit - Stronger Futures Programme To Wofk wrth young people from the Albanian speaking refugee and asylum seeker community an(1 provide specialist counsellin& youth leadershlp programme. svpplementary school and youth diversionary ath'vitses. 15. RELATED PARIY DISCLOSiThES There are no related party transactiorKs for the year ended 31 March 202412023: £Nil)
l)ospe 141 NOTES TO TrIE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024 16. CAPITAL The company has no share capital being limite¢J by guarantee. There are 5 members of the company each of whom has undertaken to cth)tnbute up to £1 in the event of the company being wound up. 17. COMPARATIVES for FUND MOVEMENTS These show fund movements in the year to 31 March 2023. ReJtrf¢Xed Fun¢. Access Reach Fund Awards fof All 8arking and Dagenham BBC Children In Need BBC Money Heroes BBC Small grant TFL Reaching Communltles Connect Newham Outreach Project East End Communlty Fund GLA - Intergenerational / Walklng and Cycllng Progfamme Henry Smith Languages Campaign Lloyds Banking Group London Youth Mopac VAWG My London Programme Newham Herilage Our Newham Money Paul Hamlyn Found8tSon MICLU Paul Hamlyn Foundation The Jack Petchey Foundatbon TNL IMICLU led) TNL Reaching communities TNL uplift Trust for London Unlversity of Liverpool Violence Reduction Unit Futures Programme 16.720 10,000 10,000 51,829 16.720 10,000 3,607 18.153 6,393 36,161 2,486 2.836 33.783 2.836 33.783 Befrlending 6.883 1,875 1.554 4,125 (446) 1.356 64.729 51.250 41,064 11,543 64,729 27.250 2,500 49,877 7.334 27,250 49.877 7.334 7,213 7.213 33,042 30.000 10.500 36,932 68,140 19,167 27.001 33.042 4.943 7,200 36.932 68.140 7.511 42,703 10,593 56,314 25.057 3,300 11,656 15,702 10.593 2,805 Stronger 53.045 464 Total Restrlctsd Funds 88.736 561,089 480,038 16.166 185,953 unrestric Fwds: Designated Funds: Working Capital Genernl Fur 150.000 152.280 150.000 227.984 112.807 20,937 116.166} Total Unre8tr1cted Funds 302.280 112,807 20.937 116.1661 377,984 Total Funth 391.016 673.896 500.975 563.937