Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025
The William Knibb Centre Montagu Street Kettering Northamptonshire NN16 8AE
t: 01536 484 318 m: 07935 402 179
www.homestartkettering.org.uk admin@homestartkettering.org.uk
homestart.ketteringarea HSKettering
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 1
Home-Start Kettering Area Company Details
Home-Start Kettering Area was established in 1994 to provide families with children under five support and friendship.
We work with local volunteers, trustees and funders to provide vital services for families in the area including Kettering, Desborough, Rothwell and surrounding villages.
Registered Charity Name Home-Start Kettering Area
Charity Registration Number 1114030
Registered Off ice and Operational Address William Knibb Centre Montagu Street Kettering Northamptonshire NN16 8AE
Board of Trustees Keith Wright (Chair) Chris Arthurs (Safeguarding & GDPR) Beccy Hurrell (Finance Lead) Bernadette Leather (Fundraising Lead) Ruth Wright (Volunteer Rep) Keli Watts Sue Stokes (Resigned July 24) Abbie Underwood (from Nov 24) Marie Cox (from Nov 24)
Accountants Bewers Turner & Co Portland House 13 Station Rd Kettering NN15 7HH
Company Registration Number 5709942
Patron Lady Gayle Robinson Crispin Holborow
Staff Members Nikki Farrar-Hayton (Manager) Donna Rockett (Off ice Administrator) Mary Docherty (Family Support Coordinator) (From July 24)
Bankers Natwest 16 High Street Kettering NN16 8S2
This report covers Home-Start Kettering Area activities and financial statements.
Home-Start Kettering Area is committed to the safeguarding of children and families. A full list of our policies are available to view at our off ice, including Safeguarding, Code of Conduct, Health and Safety , Information Governance, Confidentiality and Data Protection.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 2 eeeeeeerrr—CSCSCiés
Reach the family - Reach the chil d
What we do
Home-Start helps families with young children deal with whatever life throws at them. We support parents as they learn to cope, improve their confidence and build better lives for their children. The benefits of our support include improved health and well-being and better family relationships.
We provide one-to-one support for parents
Our volunteers visit the family’s home for 2-3 hours every week. The support is tailored to the needs of the parents and children and usually lasts for up to 6 months. Parents and volunteers of en develop a deeply trusting relationship which can lead to powerful change within the family.
Why it matters
What goes on inside a family determines the opportunities and life chances children have. Children who are raised in a stable, loving, family environment are more likely to have a positive and healthy future. But being a parent isn’t easy and sometimes life can get in the way. Circumstances throw you off course and everything else can take a back seat. A young child caught up in this can miss out on the love, routine and stimulation that are so vital for their future.
Our Values
We work in partnership – with each other, with families and with other agencies
We work in a spirit of openness, encouragement and enjoyment
We are flexible and responsive to the needs of families
Home-Start works because most of our volunteers are parents and everyone completes 6 weeks comprehensive preparation. They understand how hard it can be. They work alongside parents, in their own homes, to help them cope with the stresses and strains of life and make sure they have the skills, time and strength they need to nurture their children.
Our vision:
Home-Start wants to see a society in which every parent has the support they need to give their children the best possible start in life.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 3
Chair’s Report – Keith Wright
As I reflect on my second full year as Chair of Home-Start Kettering Area (my third as a trustee), I do so with an immense sense of pride and gratitude.
One of our key strengths is our volunteer network - which remains a pillar of our success. The commitment and compassion shown by our volunteers continues to inspire me, and the positive impact they make is clear to see in the families we support. A huge thank you must go to our Manager, Nikki Farrar-Hayton, whose leadership in this area is exemplary.
I am delighted that we have further strengthened our Board of Trustees. We were delighted to welcome Marie Cox and Abbie Underwood, who bring valuable expertise in marketing and safeguarding respectively. Their contributions are already making a positive diff erence to our strategic direction and governance.
We were also thrilled to secure additional support from the John Armitage Foundation, enabling us to expand our team with the appointment of Mary Docherty - our third member of staff . Mary’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter in our operational capacity, enhancing the support we can off er local families through groups.
Financially, we have maintained a robust position despite challenging external conditions. My thanks go to Beccy Hurrell, who has led this area on behalf of the Trustee Board. I also extend my thanks to our Friends Committee. This was chaired by David Gwinn, who stepped down in January. Thanks to David for his support over the many years.
We’ve secured a number of strategic grant wins, and with the generosity of our donors, each contribution has made a meaningful diff erence.
Special thanks go to the following funders for their generous and ongoing support: The High Sheriff Initiative Fund, Maud Elkington Charitable Trust, Kettering Town Council, Northamptonshire Community Foundation, Michael Guest Charitable Foundation, North Northamptonshire Council, Stockburn Memorial Trust, and Bewers, Turner & Co.
We continued to benefit from being part of NNBN this year, forging valuable local partnerships. I extend my thanks to Simon and Marie Cox for facilitating this, and to Poppy Design Studio for their continued support with our website and annual report.
Finally, some heartfelt acknowledgements:
To our volunteers – You are the heartbeat of our charity. Thank you for the time, care and commitment you bring every day.
To Nikki Farrar-Hayton, Donna Rockett and now Mary Docherty – Your dedication and passion embody the spirit of Home-Start.
To our Trustees – Thank you for your insight, challenge, and support. It’s a privilege to work alongside each of you.
To our funders – Your generosity underpins everything we do.
To the families – Thank you for trusting us. We hope our support has helped you feel stronger, more confident, and more connected.
With sincere thanks, Keith Wright
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 4
n Manager’s Report – Nikki Farrar-Hayto
As I sit down to write this, I find it hard to believe that this is my 25th year working for Home-Start Kettering. What a journey it’s been! I am immensely proud of everything we have achieved together in that time—and even more excited about what lies ahead.
This year has been one of growth, celebration, and deep gratitude. It also hasn’t been without its challenges. The cost-of-living crisis continues to weigh heavily on many families, with the housing crisis adding even more pressure. But in true Home-Start Kettering spirit, we’ve come together—staff , volunteers, funders, referrers, and families —to make sure that no one feels alone.
We’ve had the privilege of supporting:
-
80 families with one-to-one weekly home visiting support,
-
12 families with group-only support, and an additional 110 families through off ice-based support, including food parcels, help with energy bills, back-to-school support, nappies, formula, and other essentials.
Altogether, that’s 531 children and 297 parents who have been supported by our amazing team this year.
I’m thrilled to share that thanks to a generous donation of £25,000 a year for 3 years from the John Armitage Charitable Trust, we welcomed Mary Docherty to the team on 1st July 2024 as our new Family Support Coordinator. Mary has brought fresh energy and vision to her role. She set up and now runs the hugely successful Little Stars Stay and Play as well as the drop-in for families at The Green Patch. She also oversees volunteer support to families and has become an invaluable part of our team. We are so lucky to have her!
And speaking of luck—we are blessed to have 36 incredible volunteers who have given their time, care, and compassion to support families this year. We simply couldn’t do what we do without them. Behind the scenes, the ever-wonderful Donna Rockett, our Off ice Administrator, keeps everything running smoothly. Donna has been with us for nearly 11 years, and there’s no way we could deliver the level of support we do without her quiet eff iciency and dedication.
We’ve also helped families with more complex needs: 3 families successfully appealed their PIP award decisions, 2 families were supported in moving from temporary accommodation into permanent homes.
We were honoured (and very excited!) to be nominated for a 2025 King’s Award. The visit from the “King’s Men” back in February brought so much joy and recognition to the team and the work we do. We won’t know the outcome until the autumn, but I’m already so proud of this nomination—it’s a testament to the impact we’re having locally.
This year also marked 30 years of Home-Start Kettering supporting local families. What an incredible milestone! We marked it in true Home-Start style—with hard work, compassion, and joy—and we’re already looking forward to the next 30 years. We know how special Christmas is for families, and thanks to the generous support of so many people throughout the year, we were able to host a magical party for 25 families and 60 children. Father Christmas even had his own grotto where he met with every family, spoke with each child, and gave out presents. It was a truly heartwarming event.
We also know how tough the long summer holidays can be for many. That’s why we were delighted to take 28 families and 90 children to Wicksteed Park, where everyone had wristbands to enjoy all the rides, a backpack filled with essentials and goodies, and a delicious picnic. Watching families laugh and make memories together was an absolute highlight of the year. I’d like to say a huge thank you to:
Our funders, all of whom are acknowledged on page 19—for making this work possible, Our Trustees, who ensure we continue to deliver high-quality, responsive services, Referrers, for trusting us to walk alongside the families they support, Our volunteers, for their time, heart, and dedication,
And most of all, the amazing families we support, for their trust in us and for allowing us into their lives.
I’m filled with gratitude as I look back—and full of hope as I look forward. Here’s to another year of walking alongside local families, and to many more years of love, laughter, and support.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 5
Family Stories
Aaron
I have been asked by Home-Start to write something about my experience of been involved with Home-Start, and the reason why I and my three children came to the attention of HomeStart. So here we go.
The reason why we were referred to Home-Start was because, unknowing to me at the time, I had just come out of a very controlling and abusive relationship of 13 years and 3 children later. My ex-partner lef me with nothing apart from my three children and I won’t lie; it has been a living nightmare.
So, from the moment I met Nikki She understood our situation and wanted to help. She’d mentioned what HomeStart was all about, I knew she understood what we’ve been through, and I knew she would be able to help us. She arranged for us to have a volunteer come to the house once a week and he has been amazing. To think he gives up his own time to spend time with us and listen to me moaning on. It’s incredible and when I think about what Home-Start have done in terms of helping me pay my gas and electricity bill, helping me with my food shopping, which felt like a massive weight had been lif ed off my shoulders, but more importantly, sorting my head out.
Home-Start also helped with the DIY jobs around my house. They also run a toddler’s group which is totally funded by Home-Start and it’s really nice to see my son being able to interact with other children his own age, give me the chance to talk to adults my age. They also provided Christmas presents and Easter gif s, items of clothing and bedding for my children, which really warms my heart, because when you go through the abuse that we had suff ered, you start to think nobody cares and you’re on your own, but Home-Start has proved me wrong. I am so grateful. Winsome
I hope Home-Start can continue their work to support other families with similar situations to us and I’m sure with all the donations and the sponsorship that comes their way, they will continue to do the utmost, to make sure the money goes to the people that need it the most. So, thank you, Home-Start from the bottom of my heart, and one day I hope to repay you.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 6
Little Stars Stay and Play
Since starting the group in September, the number of families that have utilised the group has been fantastic. At the group we have diff erent toys and activities out each week, we off er outside play with balance bikes, walk along toys, scooters, ride on toys, balls to kick and throw, chalk boards and chalks. Being outside allows the children to join in with activities such as running, skipping, jumping, biking, balancing which all helps with their gross motor skills.
Diff erent activities that we have off ered are, Play-Doh, painting, colouring, junk modelling, water play, messy play, instrument making plus lots more. Each week we have trays out with diff erent activities to do to help with fine motor skills, such as threading, moving balls with plastic tweezers from one pot to another, catching magnetic sea creatures, threading, nuts and bolts turning, Duplo which are all good for helping them develop their fine motor skills.
We have a baby area where we put out age-appropriate sensory toys for the babies for the parents to interact with them and give the babies experiences of diff erent sounds, touch, materials which is all good for a babies development. All babies and children have access to the sensory room which has diff erent lights and toys to play with, this is a calming space for parents and the children.
At the end of each session, we have song time where we encourage parents and children to join in. The engagement for this is good and over the weeks the children are learning the songs and being more interactive with them. They enjoy Old Mcdonald had a Farm, The Wheels on the Bus, Wind the Bobbin up and songs that have actions that they can copy. We then always finish off song time with Twinkle, Twinkle so the children know that it is the end of the session.
Each week the children come in with a smile on their face and over the time they have been coming have grown in confidence and most of the children will now play independently and checking that their parent or carer is still there every so of en. We had children at the start not wanting to leave their adult, they would not really interact with others, however through coming regularly and seeing familiar faces the parents and children are much more comfortable with interacting with others and the children go off and explore on their own.
“ Thanks for today, I was really worried and anxious about bringing the twins today, but you all were so lovely and understanding
Great playgroup, lots of diff erent activities, good outdoor space. The volunteers are very engaging. The boys always get excited to attend.”
Just wanted to say thank you for today, I think this is going to be a lifeline to me.
Thank you for today I enjoyed it seeing new faces and my daughter loved it too thank you
28 29 Number of families Number of under 5s accessed group accessed group
12 families 11 Average weekly attendance Number of under 1s accessed group
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 7
Volunteer Report - Jane
I first heard about Home-Start when a friend of mine sent me an advertisement about a new volunteer course. Straight away this seemed like the sort of organisation that I would like to get involved with.
I had retired early and, with two grown up children that didn’t need so much from me anymore, I had plenty of spare time. Helping families that needed support was something that really resonated with me. When I first became a mother, I didn’t have parents that could help or family nearby and most of my friends had older children. Initially I remember feeling overwhelmed and lonely. Being a mum can be isolating and scary so being in a position to help other families cope with life as a parent felt like something I really wanted to do.
The preparation course was very interesting, interactive and contained all the information we needed for the role. Nikki delivered the course brilliantly and af er the first session I knew this was for me. Everyone in the off ice is always there to guide and support you, so you can always contact someone for guidance or to just talk things through if situations have been a bit challenging.
When you start with your first family Nikki gives you a full report on the needs of the family and a basic idea of what areas they may need help in. The most important thing as a volunteer is to go in with a listening ear, open heart and mind. Sometimes you may be the first person they have been able to confide in.
My first family was a lady who had three young children and where English was not her first language, who was very isolated and lonely. From the very beginning I was so humbled that this young mother let me into her home and was so welcoming. The thing that struck me most is the trust families have in you.
She talked about her situation and what she needed help with and we just chatted a lot. Sometimes I was the only person she spoke to that week. I helped her navigate various government systems, find new primary schools for her children and fun activities for the children to do. When I moved onto my next family, I felt content that I had helped this lady and made a diff erence to her family’s life. However most importantly, my belief in the power of Home-Start was initiated.
As a volunteer, sometimes I found myself questioning what I can really do to help. But the answer is to listen, validate and comfort. Never underestimate the power of just talking and listening to a family. The system can be hard to navigate, especially when families have multiple children and services they use. In providing your time, you can unpick their concerns, guide families and be someone they can trust. Being part of Home-Start is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 8
Family Report – Fiorela
One year ago, I was pregnant and in a meeting I had with the midwife, I told her that I felt very stressed, alone and physically and emotionally exhausted. I was in a very diff icult situation. The midwife told me that there are associations that can help and support you. She asked me if I would like her to contact them, I accepted and she found me the opportunity to have support from Home-Start.
It all started here, Nikki came to my house and did not hesitate to help me in any way. At the second meeting I met my volunteer Jane, a noble loving, smiling, unique women I would say.
As soon as I had the baby I was very fragile, postpartum I needed someone and Jane was there for everything. She helped me find a school for the children because their school was too far away in Rushden, she helped sourcing the school uniform and the registration. For me Kettering was a new town I did not know. Jane helped me find childcare places for the children to play but above all I had a friend who I didn’t hesitate to tell anything that was worrying me. Jane never said no to anything I asked of her. Being a single mother of three children without any family members close by is very diff icult, it aff ects me emotionally, mentally…But Jane stood by me and very quickly became part of my family. I don’t speak English well and I’m writing this message in Albanian, I hope Google translate will translate it correctly the way I want to express myself in Albanian.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of Home-Start.
With much love, Fiorela
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 9
Patron - Crispin Holborow
I first heard of Home-Start Kettering when the school my children attended chose to support it as their charity of the year. At that stage, I had no real understanding of the important work you do, but it was telling that the school children voted for it as the charity they most wanted to support.
I was later reintroduced to Home-Start Kettering during my year as High Sheriff . It was one of the first charities I visited, and it created an instant impact. I was struck by the dedication of the team, working tirelessly to support such a vital cause. It still amazes me today how a handful of people can have such a meaningful impact on this part of Northamptonshire.
Throughout my year as High Sheriff , I was repeatedly reminded of the importance of prevention in helping keep people on the right path, and I am always aware that Home Start is one of the key charities that is so eff ective in this space—bridging the gap between social services and the families so desperately in need.
I felt an instant rapport with the team and still can’t believe how such a small group of people can make such a meaningful diff erence to our local community.
When they asked me to become a patron I was delighted to accept in order to support them in any way I can.
Volunteer Report - Christine
Af er my volunteer training at the beginning of 2024, I was allocated my first family who Nikki introduced me to, to discuss how I could help.
I struggled to get mum and the children out and about despite various suggestions due to mum’s anxiety. I did manage to take the eldest out to a nearby park on several occasions and then I would take him to nursery which then turned into the school run during my time. This allowed mum not to be overwhelmed with getting out the door with 3 children with time restrictions.
As we got to know each other she felt confident to leave me babysitting if she had a doctor’s appointment or needed to get something from the shop or chemist. She would talk constantly to me quite openly about her struggles. As she had explored all that was available to her all I could do was listen. I think only twice she asked about me and my life but it wasn’t about me.
During my 6 months she never once cancelled on me. I did feel a bit useless at times but went at her pace, she wasn’t one to be pushed.
On my last day she said to me, I shall miss our Thursday mornings, you never once judged me. And really that was enough.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 10 eeeeeeerrr—CSCSCiés
Referrer’s Report – Lizzie Baker
Greenfields Primary School and Nursery have been lucky enough to have had support from Home-Start Kettering for over ten years.
We have a great working relationship and have had extensive support from Nikki and Donna and the wonderful volunteers.
Many of our families have benefitted from the support of a Home-Start volunteer, who have been matched with the family to ensure they are the right person to help. This help comes in diff erent ways, from helping to attend appointments, helping to take children out in the community setting, helping with cooking and budgeting and being someone to talk to – an independent friendly listener and advisor.
We have sought support from their Foodbank and help with signposting families to the appropriate services. We have seen how working with Home-Start benefits our families, helping them to make what can be challenging and diff icult decisions, helping them to access and more importantly to engage with services and ultimately improve their lives and those of their children – significantly improving outcomes for children. We truly value our relationship with Home-Start and know that we can pick up the phone and ask for help when needed.
Thank you for all your support and the fantastic job you do.
Greenfields Primary Nursery and School
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 11
Family Support Co-ordinator - Mary
I applied for the role of Family Support Coordinator as I had previously been a volunteer with Home-Start Kettering, and I loved being able to give my time to families in need. Seeing the diff erence Home-Start make to families made me really want to support families in need. I had a few years where I was unable to volunteer due to work and family commitments, but then I became ill with covid and I was forced to leave my job as Assistant Practitioner on a Children’s Ward at Kettering Hospital, I moved on to a role in a mum and baby unit which was managed by a private company who only seemed to care about making money and not supporting mums to enable them to keep their babies. When I saw the advert for the role at Home-Start Kettering, I knew I had to apply. My family and friends said this would be a great job for me and on the day of the interview, I was very nervous as honesty it is my dream job. When I received the call to off er me the role, I was over the moon and could not wait to let my family and friends know.
I started my role on July 1st, 2024, where I spent 4 weeks shadowing Nikki to ensure I was fully equipped for supporting families and volunteers. Af er the 4 weeks shadowing, I began having my own caseload, starting with families that had already been matched with volunteers which I took over from Nikki. In September 2024 I started the Little Stars Stay and Play group for our Home-Start families. Referrers can refer for group only support if they feel the family would benefit from attending a non-judgemental group. The group has been very well supported and continues to be accessed each week by a good number of families. The feedback from the parents and carers is extremely positive and I have included some in my group report on page 7.
Since starting my role, I have attended 16 EHA’s, 30 1-1s with volunteers, 19 initial assessments, 9 family reviews and 4 end reviews. I have assisted a family to request an EHC plan, and 2 families fill in paperwork for Autism and ADHD paperwork.
From April two new groups will be starting, an outdoors stay and play at the Green Patch which will give our families the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, there will be lots of messy play and learning about nature and growing our food. The second group is a parent support group which will off er support and advice, arts and craf s plus tea and toast. This is a group for adults only who have children in nursery or school to come and have some time to themselves and will run once a month.
I have been in my role for 9 months and absolutely love the job, I feel like I have fitted in well into the team and I have built good relationships with the volunteers and families. Each day is diff erent, which I enjoy and I feel so humbled to be able to be part of a family’s journey whilst they are with us and to work alongside such amazing volunteers who make coming to work each day so worthwhile.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 12
Safeguarding Trustee Report - Chris Arthurs
If you have read the Annual Report over the last 12 years, you may have noticed that my Safeguarding Report has changed little from year to year. This has been because our responsibility to safeguard the adults and children we work with, and each other, is ongoing.
This year is diff erent as I am very happy to be introducing Abbie Underwood as taking on the role from today as I step down as a Trustee. Abbie is very well qualified to take on the responsibility of Lead Safeguarding Trustee and is very much on the ball with modern day Safeguarding issues, including being safe on-line and the use of social media. I will still be a Volunteer, focussing on short term financial advice and DIY, and I hope to work with Home-Start Kettering for as long as I am useful.
Home-Start is an amazing organisation and all of our supporters – Volunteers, Staff , Trustees, Donors, and Families contribute to our success. I have been aware of Home-Start’s excellent work since the ‘70’s and it is a privilege to be part of that success.
The founder, Margaret Harrison, wrote:
“A touch of human kindness and a sense of hope can lead irrevocably to greater personal wellbeing, it can rekindle that twinkle in the eye, a spring in the step, and the sound of laughter. A Home-Start Volunteer backed up by the Home-Start community can lead to a cycle of people helping each other again with ever widening circle of friendship. Together let’s continue to share the magic and our humanity with families.”
I think many of us will have seen some of that in our work with Home-Start Kettering.
And remember, if you have the slightest doubt about the safety or well-being of anyone in our community don’t hesitate to contact Nikki, Abbie or Ruth. Better safe than sorry.
Chris Arthurs
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 13
Volunteer Rep - Ruth
We are heading into our 30th year at Home-Start Kettering - yes 30!!!! 30 years of supporting local families. Thats a lot of families and a lot of volunteers! I think that is worth celebrating. I’d like to say what a wonderful year it’s been. Our fantastic volunteers have supported our local families in many ways, food parcels, home visits, Christmas packages, Christmas party, Easter eggs, a great day at Wicksteed Park… there is too much to list!
Home-Start Kettering is always willing to help; we really are an amazing team. Being a trustee and a volunteer for Home-Start has shown me just how kind people are.
Things have been tough, with energy prices and bills climbing in general. People understandably having to look for work and put volunteering on hold, leaving us with a shortage of volunteers at times but we have pulled together and continued to help our families, showing them they are not alone. It really does make a massive diff erence. We’ve all needed that smiley face to knock on the door at times and I feel Home-Start has some of the best smiles. We are always looking for more friendly faces to join us, please get in touch or spread the word.
Thank you to all our volunteers old and new and thank you to all that support us in our work.
Here’s to our 30th year Kettering Home-Start! Lots more smiles to come :)
Source of Referrals Received
==> picture [250 x 87] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
Ss
42 16 [%]
%
Health Visitors Schools/Nurseries
----- End of picture text -----
==> picture [208 x 75] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
%
%
8
7
Other Health Mental Health
Navigators
----- End of picture text -----
==> picture [260 x 206] intentionally omitted <==
----- Start of picture text -----
A
%
%
9 at 6 by
Family Support
wy,
Services M
Portage
1 % %
3
Self Referals
Social Services
----- End of picture text -----
4[%] Police/Domestic Abuse Services
% 3 Midwives
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 14
Friends of Home-Start Report – Bernadette
Raising funds for Home-Start Kettering is always a top priority and we couldn’t do it without the dedication of our Friends of HomeStart.
2024 saw our 30th year supporting local families and we set ourselves the challenge of raising £30,000. Thanks to the support of so many people we smashed our target.
In May the UE Group held a fantastic Golf Day raising £2200, Cllr Jim Hakewill featured on Find it Fix it Flog it and donated £500. In June, the village of Old held a Bridge Drive Raff le for us and raised £195, Gill Parton’s annual Open Day raised £1600. Our Chair, Keith Wright walked 30 miles and raised £1000 and our inaugural Family Fun Day raised £365. In July, Cary’s Sky Dive raised £1000.
October started off with our annual Bingo and Curry night and was a huge success raising £1500. The 23rd Kettering Scouts took a team of us on an adventure with a 15-mile hike armed with a map and compass, we had to find our way to camp where we slept in hammocks. Thanks to everyone involved, we raised £2000.
November saw our Annual Quiz Night in Walgrave with another fantastic amount raised, over £3000. Geddington Kites Ladies Rounders Team end of season bash raised £500 which was match funded so £1000 was donated!
In December, our new Patron, Crispin Holborow held a festive evening in the beautiful Thorpe Malsor Hall and £500 was raised. Michael Docherty ran his first Half Marathon and on the same day Mary held a Coff ee Morning and between them £300 was raised!
Kettering Bhangra Classes held a charity dance class for us and raised a fantastic £700! It was great fun and a few of us were even brave enough to try it.
We have more fantastic events coming up this year. We are in our second year of partnering with Hanwood Park who provide us space and support for our Family Fun Day. We have the always popular Curry and Bingo night coming up in the autumn along with our Annual Quiz Night, a Fashion Show and we are excited to be involved with the 2nd Kettering Half Marathon in 2026. If you’d like to enter and raise funds for us, get in touch. We’re always looking for fresh ideas and enthusiasm and we would love to welcome new members to the Friends team. Whether you have a passion for organising events or are happier helping in the background, we would be delighted if you joined us! Contact the off ice for details of our next meeting.
Thank you to everyone who supports our events, the Friends of Home-Start who plan and run them and the many volunteers who give their time to help. We are very grateful to you all and your support really makes a diff erence to every Home-Start family.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 15
The Year in Numbers
Over 700 volunteer visits
Over
1742 «ce p?” 1000
Friends hours donated to Home-Start Kettering
volunteer time with families
Summer Trip 2024 | 28 families 90 69 children adults
4000
136 186 picn ics wristbands given to families
Over
Christmas 2024
£34,000 families 57 raised through fundraising children 153
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 16 eeeeeeerrr—CSCSCiés
Financial Statement
Financial Statement Incoming Resources 24/25 23/24 ~~ee ee~~ Grants 50,730 58,345 ~~eeee ee~~ Donations and Fundraising 32,176 50,302 ~~es~~ Gif Aid 1,971 2,752 ~~rr eeee eeeee~~ Bank Interest 2,002 944 ~~eeee~~ Total Income 86,879 112,343 ~~rr~~ Charitable Expenditure ~~a ee~~ Service Delivery 98,085 73,724 ~~ee~~ Administrative Overheads 8,368 6,168 ~~re eeee ee~~ Depreciation 503 378 ~~ee~~ 106,956 80,270 ~~i~~
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 17
Treasurer’s Report - Beccy Hurrell
Once again, our grateful thanks to everybody who has supported us in any way. The families and children are still there, needing our support. Our waiting list continues to grow. The need for new volunteers and new fundraising ideas still remains.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 18
6 Thank Yous /, 23rd Kettering Scout Group Kettering Lions All Saints Church Kettering Science Academy Ann Ireland Kettering Town Council Asda Kettering Kieran Hayes Carpentry Barton Seagrave Primary School Lady Gayle Robinson Bewers, Turner & Co Latimer Arts College Biker Masons Linus Quilts Braybrook Church Loddington Church and School Cadent Loz Anstey Cary McQueen Mash Dance Chris Arthurs Massive Hits Radio Cllr Anne Lee Maud Elkington Charitable Trust Cllr Craig Skinner Mawsley School Cllr Dez Dell Mega Care Nursing & Care Cllr Emily Fedorowycz Michael Docherty Cllr Jim Hakewill Michael Guest Foundation Cllr John Hunter Mike & Rayna Smith Cllr Keli Watts Millbrook Infant School Cllr Maggie Don MIND Kettering Crispin Holborow Morrisons Kettering Currys Kettering MP Rosie Wrighting David Donoghue NNBN David Gwinn North Northamptonshire Council David Wilson Homes Northamptonshire Community Foundation Dawn Coles Nursery Connections Dezign2decorate Old Bridge Drive Dr Trevor Morgan Peter Wilson Family Trust Dunelm Kettering Pharmacy 2 u EA Timson Trust Poppy Design Studio Family Hub Purchasing for Parks & Purchasing for Business Faraway Children’s Charity Rotary Club of Kettering Huxloe GB Appliances Sainsburys Desborough Geddington Church Sainsburys Kettering Geddington Kites Ladies Rounders Team Sarah Frankham Geddington Primary School Sarah Watkins Gill Parton Shurgard GMB Union Solace Trust Groundworks Soroptimists Hanwood Park Spratton School Havelock Infant and Junior School St Andrew’s Church Hawthorn School St Peter’s School Hayfield Cross School Steve Barnett Health Visitor Team Stockburn Memorial Trust Howdens Stuart Bates Howdens Raunds Distribution centre Sulina Chatburn Howdens Wellingborough Terracycle Jim Hakewill Tesco Kettering John Armitage Charitable Trust The Green Patch Kafe Bloc The Hut Cafe Kettering Community Unit UE Group Kettering Bhangra Classes Walgrave Benefice Kettering Family Hub Willowbrook Adventure Kettering Green Party Woodcrof Scout Centre i” Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 19
Risk Management and Key Policies
The Trustees ensure that the major risks to which Home-Start is exposed are reviewed and assessed and that systems are in place to mitigate those risks. The Trustees have agreed a risk assessment policy for which they have overall responsibility. All key policies within the organisation are regularly reviewed and updated as appropriate to reflect any legislative changes and the latest developments and thinking in relation to best practice.
Home-Start’s work is primarily of a long term, fixed nature. The objects of the Charity are:
To safeguard, protect and preserve the good health, both mental and physical of children and their parents.
To prevent cruelty to or maltreatment of children.
To relieve sickness, poverty and need amongst children and parents of children.
To promote education of the public in better standards of childcare within the area of Kettering and its environs.
Reserves Policy
The Trustees have reviewed the Charity’s needs for reserves in line with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission and agreed to set aside reserves equal to six months of running costs, set at £53,000 for the upcoming year.
At 31st March 2025 the Charity held £52,120 in unrestricted funds, close to the target level, and £46,914 in restricted funds for specific purposes. The Trustees consider the financial position to be stable and adequate for ongoing operations.
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 20 eeeeeeerrr—CSCSCiés
Volunteers
Without y ou, none of this could happen...
| Abbie | Gill | Krassy | Rita |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abigail | Helen | Laina | Ruth |
| Algernon | Jane A | Laura | Sandy |
| Alison | Jane P | Lisa | Sara |
| Amanda | Jane W | Louise T | Sonal |
| Beccy | Jayne | Louise K | Sue |
| Bernadette | Jenny | Luisa | Teresa |
| Catherine | Joanne | Lynda | Tina |
| Chris | Jody | Marie | Tor |
| Christine | June | Michelle | Trudy |
| David | Keith | Olajumoke | Ursula |
| Elaine | Keli | Rayna |
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 21 eeeeeeerrr—CSCSCiés
==> picture [83 x 64] intentionally omitted <==
Kettering Area
Because tomorrow starts today
Annual Report and Accounts 2024/2025 | Page 22
REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 05709942 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1114030
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
FOR
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
Bewers Turner & Co LLP Chartered Accountants Portland House 11-13 Station Road Kettering Northamptonshire NN15 7HH
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| Page | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 1 | to | 2 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 3 | ||
| Balance Sheet | 4 | to | 5 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 6 | to | 12 |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 13 |
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Please visit the charity commissions website to see the full Trustees report.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
Home-Start helps families with young children deal with whatever life throws at them. We support parents as they learn to cope, improve their confidence and build better lives for their children. The benefits of our support include improved health and well-being and better family relationships.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial position
Income for this year was £86,879 which was an increase compared to 2023-24 and with total expenditure of £106,956, this results in net deficit for the year of £20,077.
Reserves policy
The Trustees have reviewed the Charity’s needs for reserves in line with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission and agreed to set aside 6 months running costs at any one time to safeguard the Charity’s service commitment in the event of delays in receipt of Grants or long term staff sickness. This figure has been agreed as £50,000 for the upcoming financial year, the figure may need to increase for future years.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
The Trustees ensure that the major risks to which Home-Start is exposed are reviewed and assessed and that systems are in place to mitigate those risks. The Trustees have agreed a risk assessment policy for which they have overall responsibility.
All key policies within the organisation are regularly reviewed and updated as appropriate to reflect any legislative changes and the latest developments and thinking in relation to best practice.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Registered Company number
05709942 (England and Wales)
Registered Charity number
1114030
Page 1
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
Registered office
The Zone, William Knibb Centre Montagu Street Kettering Northampshire NN16 8AE
Trustees
C W Arthurs Ms S L Stokes (resigned 5/7/2024) K Wright Ms R J Hurrell K R Watts Mrs R Wright Ms B Leather A Underwood (appointed 19/11/2024)
Company Secretary Ms N L A Farrar-Hayton
Approved by order of the board of trustees on ............................................. and signed on its behalf by:
.................................................................... Trustee
Page 2
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Total fund fund funds Notes £ £ £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 2 37,647 47,230 84,877 Investment income 3 2,002 - 2,002 Total 39,649 47,230 86,879 EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Services provided 70,714 26,789 97,503 Family Purchases 1,017 1,688 2,705 Volunteer costs 2,178 4,570 6,748 Total 73,909 33,047 106,956 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (34,260) 14,183 (20,077) Transfers between funds 11 26,588 (26,588) - Net movement in funds (7,672) (12,405) (20,077) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 59,792 59,319 119,111 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 52,120 46,914 99,034 |
2024 Total funds £ 111,399 944 |
|---|---|
| 112,343 | |
| 72,272 4,126 3,872 |
|
| 80,270 | |
| 32,073 - |
|
| 32,073 87,038 |
|
| 119,111 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 3
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
BALANCE SHEET 31ST MARCH 2025
| Unrestricted Restricted fund fund Notes £ £ FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 8 945 1,381 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 9 230 - Cash at bank and in hand 52,612 45,533 52,842 45,533 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 10 (1,667) - NET CURRENT ASSETS 51,175 45,533 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 52,120 46,914 NET ASSETS 52,120 46,914 FUNDS 11 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds TOTAL FUNDS |
2025 Total funds £ 2,326 230 98,145 98,375 (1,667) 96,708 99,034 99,034 52,120 46,914 99,034 |
2024 Total funds £ 1,507 - 118,519 118,519 (915) 117,604 119,111 119,111 59,792 59,319 119,111 |
|---|---|---|
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st March 2025.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31st March 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
-
(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
-
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 4
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
BALANCE SHEET - continued 31ST MARCH 2025
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ............................................. and were signed on its behalf by:
............................................. Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 5
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
Income
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
Fixtures and fittings - 20% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 20% on reducing balance
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
Page 6
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES Fund raising activities Donations Gift aid Grants Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: Maud Elkington Constance Travis Faraway Childrens Charity Kettering Town Council Northants Community Aid Stockburn Memorial Trust Household Support Fund Grant 2024 John Armitage Foundation Michael Guest North Northamptonshire Council Poverty Hurts Cadent Groundworks 3. INVESTMENT INCOME Deposit account interest |
2025 £ 10,722 21,454 1,971 50,730 84,877 2025 £ - 2,000 620 1,500 - 2,750 - 25,000 5,000 8,360 - 4,500 1,000 50,730 2025 £ 2,002 |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111,399 | ||||
| 2024 £ 2,500 - 555 1,790 2,000 4,000 5,000 25,000 10,000 5,500 2,000 - - |
||||
| 58,345 | ||||
| 2024 £ 944 |
Page 7
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
4. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Depreciation - owned assets | 502 | 378 |
5. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.
Trustees' expenses
There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.
6. STAFF COSTS
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
| Support Management No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Unrestricted fund £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 53,054 Investment income 944 Total 53,998 EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Services provided 63,499 Family Purchases 322 Volunteer costs 1,615 Total 65,436 |
2025 2 1 3 Restricted fund £ 58,345 - 58,345 8,773 3,804 2,257 14,834 |
2024 1 1 2 Total funds £ 111,399 944 |
|---|---|---|
| 112,343 | ||
| 72,272 4,126 3,872 |
||
| 80,270 |
7. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Page 8
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 7. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES - continued Unrestricted Restricted fund fund £ £ NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (11,438) 43,511 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 71,230 15,808 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 59,792 59,319 8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Fixtures and Computer fittings equipment £ £ COST At 1st April 2024 1,708 8,442 Additions 756 565 At 31st March 2025 2,464 9,007 DEPRECIATION At 1st April 2024 1,614 7,029 Charge for year 107 395 At 31st March 2025 1,721 7,424 NET BOOK VALUE At 31st March 2025 743 1,583 At 31st March 2024 94 1,413 |
Total funds £ |
|---|---|
| 32,073 87,038 |
|
| 119,111 | |
| Totals £ 10,150 1,321 11,471 8,643 502 9,145 2,326 1,507 |
Page 9
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR Other debtors 10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR Trade creditors Social security and other taxes 11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS At 1/4/24 £ Unrestricted funds General fund 59,792 Restricted funds Restricted Funds 59,319 TOTAL FUNDS 119,111 Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
2025 2024 £ £ 230 - 2025 2024 £ £ 223 - 1,444 915 1,667 915 Net Transfers movement between At in funds funds 31/3/25 £ £ £ (34,260) 26,588 52,120 14,183 (26,588) 46,914 (20,077) - 99,034 Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 39,649 (73,909) (34,260) 47,230 (33,047) 14,183 86,879 (106,956) (20,077) |
|---|---|
Page 10
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
| Net | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| movement | At | ||
| At 1/4/23 | in funds | 31/3/24 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 71,230 | (11,438) | 59,792 |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Restricted Funds | 15,808 | 43,511 | 59,319 |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 87,038 | 32,073 | 119,111 |
| Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: | |||
| Incoming | Resources | Movement | |
| resources | expended | in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 53,998 | (65,436) | (11,438) |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Restricted Funds | 58,345 | (14,834) | 43,511 |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 112,343 | (80,270) | 32,073 |
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1/4/23 £ 71,230 15,808 87,038 |
Net movement in funds £ (45,698) 57,694 11,996 |
Transfers between funds £ 26,588 (26,588) - |
At 31/3/25 £ 52,120 46,914 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99,034 |
Page 11
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 93,647 (139,345) (45,698) 105,575 (47,881) 57,694 199,222 (187,226) 11,996 |
|---|---|
12. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31st March 2025.
Page 12
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Donations and legacies Fund raising activities Donations Gift aid Grants Investment income Deposit account interest Total incoming resources EXPENDITURE Support costs Management Wages Social security Pensions Rates and water Insurance Telephone Postage and stationery Advertising Sundries Events & outings Expenses - staff Subscriptions & fees Training Expenses - volunteers Depreciation of tangible and heritage assets Family purchases Exceptional family purchases Total resources expended Net (expenditure)/income |
2025 £ 10,722 21,454 1,971 50,730 84,877 2,002 86,879 71,825 1,460 4,226 - 1,062 1,546 296 2 620 11,695 1,732 2,485 2,357 4,442 503 104,251 2,705 106,956 (20,077) |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
|---|---|---|
| 111,399 944 |
||
| 112,343 53,881 - 3,258 413 799 978 1,365 518 658 3,795 2,911 1,437 1,882 3,872 377 |
||
| 76,144 4,126 |
||
| 80,270 | ||
| 32,073 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 13
REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 05709942 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1114030
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND
UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
FOR
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
Bewers Turner & Co LLP Chartered Accountants Portland House 11-13 Station Road Kettering Northamptonshire NN15 7HH
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
CONTENTS OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| Page | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 1 | to | 2 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 3 | ||
| Balance Sheet | 4 | to | 5 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 6 | to | 12 |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 13 |
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
The trustees who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31st March 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Please visit the charity commissions website to see the full Trustees report.
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES
Objectives and aims
Home-Start helps families with young children deal with whatever life throws at them. We support parents as they learn to cope, improve their confidence and build better lives for their children. The benefits of our support include improved health and well-being and better family relationships.
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Financial position
Income for this year was £86,879 which was an increase compared to 2023-24 and with total expenditure of £106,956, this results in net deficit for the year of £20,077.
Reserves policy
The Trustees have reviewed the Charity’s needs for reserves in line with the guidance issued by the Charity Commission and agreed to set aside 6 months running costs at any one time to safeguard the Charity’s service commitment in the event of delays in receipt of Grants or long term staff sickness. This figure has been agreed as £50,000 for the upcoming financial year, the figure may need to increase for future years.
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
Governing document
The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust, and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee, as defined by the Companies Act 2006.
Risk management
The trustees have a duty to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure appropriate controls are in place to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error.
The Trustees ensure that the major risks to which Home-Start is exposed are reviewed and assessed and that systems are in place to mitigate those risks. The Trustees have agreed a risk assessment policy for which they have overall responsibility.
All key policies within the organisation are regularly reviewed and updated as appropriate to reflect any legislative changes and the latest developments and thinking in relation to best practice.
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Registered Company number
05709942 (England and Wales)
Registered Charity number
1114030
Page 1
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
Registered office
The Zone, William Knibb Centre Montagu Street Kettering Northampshire NN16 8AE
Trustees
C W Arthurs Ms S L Stokes (resigned 5/7/2024) K Wright Ms R J Hurrell K R Watts Mrs R Wright Ms B Leather A Underwood (appointed 19/11/2024)
Company Secretary Ms N L A Farrar-Hayton
Approved by order of the board of trustees on ............................................. and signed on its behalf by:
.................................................................... Trustee
Page 2
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Total fund fund funds Notes £ £ £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 2 37,647 47,230 84,877 Investment income 3 2,002 - 2,002 Total 39,649 47,230 86,879 EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Services provided 70,714 26,789 97,503 Family Purchases 1,017 1,688 2,705 Volunteer costs 2,178 4,570 6,748 Total 73,909 33,047 106,956 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (34,260) 14,183 (20,077) Transfers between funds 11 26,588 (26,588) - Net movement in funds (7,672) (12,405) (20,077) RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 59,792 59,319 119,111 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 52,120 46,914 99,034 |
2024 Total funds £ 111,399 944 |
|---|---|
| 112,343 | |
| 72,272 4,126 3,872 |
|
| 80,270 | |
| 32,073 - |
|
| 32,073 87,038 |
|
| 119,111 |
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 3
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
BALANCE SHEET 31ST MARCH 2025
| Unrestricted Restricted fund fund Notes £ £ FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 8 945 1,381 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 9 230 - Cash at bank and in hand 52,612 45,533 52,842 45,533 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 10 (1,667) - NET CURRENT ASSETS 51,175 45,533 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 52,120 46,914 NET ASSETS 52,120 46,914 FUNDS 11 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds TOTAL FUNDS |
2025 Total funds £ 2,326 230 98,145 98,375 (1,667) 96,708 99,034 99,034 52,120 46,914 99,034 |
2024 Total funds £ 1,507 - 118,519 118,519 (915) 117,604 119,111 119,111 59,792 59,319 119,111 |
|---|---|---|
The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31st March 2025.
The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31st March 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for
-
(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and
-
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 4
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
BALANCE SHEET - continued 31ST MARCH 2025
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime.
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ............................................. and were signed on its behalf by:
............................................. Trustee
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 5
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of preparing the financial statements
The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention.
Income
All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
Fixtures and fittings - 20% on reducing balance Computer equipment - 20% on reducing balance
Taxation
The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
Page 6
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES Fund raising activities Donations Gift aid Grants Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: Maud Elkington Constance Travis Faraway Childrens Charity Kettering Town Council Northants Community Aid Stockburn Memorial Trust Household Support Fund Grant 2024 John Armitage Foundation Michael Guest North Northamptonshire Council Poverty Hurts Cadent Groundworks 3. INVESTMENT INCOME Deposit account interest |
2025 £ 10,722 21,454 1,971 50,730 84,877 2025 £ - 2,000 620 1,500 - 2,750 - 25,000 5,000 8,360 - 4,500 1,000 50,730 2025 £ 2,002 |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111,399 | ||||
| 2024 £ 2,500 - 555 1,790 2,000 4,000 5,000 25,000 10,000 5,500 2,000 - - |
||||
| 58,345 | ||||
| 2024 £ 944 |
Page 7
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
4. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
| 2025 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Depreciation - owned assets | 502 | 378 |
5. TRUSTEES' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
There were no trustees' remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.
Trustees' expenses
There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31st March 2025 nor for the year ended 31st March 2024.
6. STAFF COSTS
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
| Support Management No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Unrestricted fund £ INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 53,054 Investment income 944 Total 53,998 EXPENDITURE ON Charitable activities Services provided 63,499 Family Purchases 322 Volunteer costs 1,615 Total 65,436 |
2025 2 1 3 Restricted fund £ 58,345 - 58,345 8,773 3,804 2,257 14,834 |
2024 1 1 2 Total funds £ 111,399 944 |
|---|---|---|
| 112,343 | ||
| 72,272 4,126 3,872 |
||
| 80,270 |
7. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Page 8
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 7. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES - continued Unrestricted Restricted fund fund £ £ NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (11,438) 43,511 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 71,230 15,808 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 59,792 59,319 8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Fixtures and Computer fittings equipment £ £ COST At 1st April 2024 1,708 8,442 Additions 756 565 At 31st March 2025 2,464 9,007 DEPRECIATION At 1st April 2024 1,614 7,029 Charge for year 107 395 At 31st March 2025 1,721 7,424 NET BOOK VALUE At 31st March 2025 743 1,583 At 31st March 2024 94 1,413 |
Total funds £ |
|---|---|
| 32,073 87,038 |
|
| 119,111 | |
| Totals £ 10,150 1,321 11,471 8,643 502 9,145 2,326 1,507 |
Page 9
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| 9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR Other debtors 10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR Trade creditors Social security and other taxes 11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS At 1/4/24 £ Unrestricted funds General fund 59,792 Restricted funds Restricted Funds 59,319 TOTAL FUNDS 119,111 Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
2025 2024 £ £ 230 - 2025 2024 £ £ 223 - 1,444 915 1,667 915 Net Transfers movement between At in funds funds 31/3/25 £ £ £ (34,260) 26,588 52,120 14,183 (26,588) 46,914 (20,077) - 99,034 Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 39,649 (73,909) (34,260) 47,230 (33,047) 14,183 86,879 (106,956) (20,077) |
|---|---|
Page 10
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
Comparatives for movement in funds
| Net | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| movement | At | ||
| At 1/4/23 | in funds | 31/3/24 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 71,230 | (11,438) | 59,792 |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Restricted Funds | 15,808 | 43,511 | 59,319 |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 87,038 | 32,073 | 119,111 |
| Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: | |||
| Incoming | Resources | Movement | |
| resources | expended | in funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Unrestricted funds | |||
| General fund | 53,998 | (65,436) | (11,438) |
| Restricted funds | |||
| Restricted Funds | 58,345 | (14,834) | 43,511 |
| TOTAL FUNDS | 112,343 | (80,270) | 32,073 |
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
At 1/4/23 £ 71,230 15,808 87,038 |
Net movement in funds £ (45,698) 57,694 11,996 |
Transfers between funds £ 26,588 (26,588) - |
At 31/3/25 £ 52,120 46,914 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99,034 |
Page 11
continued...
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - continued FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
11. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Funds TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 93,647 (139,345) (45,698) 105,575 (47,881) 57,694 199,222 (187,226) 11,996 |
|---|---|
12. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31st March 2025.
Page 12
HOME-START KETTERING AREA
DETAILED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH 2025
| INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Donations and legacies Fund raising activities Donations Gift aid Grants Investment income Deposit account interest Total incoming resources EXPENDITURE Support costs Management Wages Social security Pensions Rates and water Insurance Telephone Postage and stationery Advertising Sundries Events & outings Expenses - staff Subscriptions & fees Training Expenses - volunteers Depreciation of tangible and heritage assets Family purchases Exceptional family purchases Total resources expended Net (expenditure)/income |
2025 £ 10,722 21,454 1,971 50,730 84,877 2,002 86,879 71,825 1,460 4,226 - 1,062 1,546 296 2 620 11,695 1,732 2,485 2,357 4,442 503 104,251 2,705 106,956 (20,077) |
2024 £ 50,302 - 2,752 58,345 |
|---|---|---|
| 111,399 944 |
||
| 112,343 53,881 - 3,258 413 799 978 1,365 518 658 3,795 2,911 1,437 1,882 3,872 377 |
||
| 76,144 4,126 |
||
| 80,270 | ||
| 32,073 |
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 13