2023-12-31-accounts - The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (Sama 82)

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

A Company Limited by Guarantee – formed on 19 February 2007 - Registered Number 06113679 Registered as a Charity on 17 April 2007 – Registered Number 1118842

Patron His Majesty King Charles III

Association Founded by Rick Jolly and Denzil Connick

President: Commodore Jamie Miller, CBE Royal Navy

Honorary life vice-presidents: Malcolm Hunt; Martin Reed; John Philips; Mike Bowles; John Erskine; Kevin Greathurst; Ann Townsend; Dr Morgan O’Connell; Julian Thompson; Sir James Dutton; Jane Adams; Gordon Mather; Stephen Adams; Nicci Pugh.

Directors as at the 2 April 2023: Thomas Herring, Andrew Lockett, Christopher Howe MBE, Stephen Penfold, Alan Dodsworth, Brian Sherrington, Michael Sherrington, Robin Turk. Directors as at the 31 December 2023 Thomas Herring, Andrew Lockett, Christopher Howe MBE, Stephen Penfold, Alan Dodsworth, Brain Sherrington, Michael Sherrington, Robin Turk

Secretary Joanne Stevens

In 2022, South Atlantic Medal holders were given the freedom of the Falkland Islands and the cities of Portsmouth and Plymouth.

Annual Report

Period 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023

1. Objectives

1.1. to promote the efficiency of the United Kingdom armed forces and other supporting units by maintaining contact between serving members of the armed forces and members and former members of the armed forces, the Merchant Navy, and other UK units that served in operations in the South Atlantic in 1982;
1.2. to advance the education of the public and members of the armed forces in matters relating to operations in the South Atlantic in 1982;
1.3. to promote good citizenship for the benefit of the public at large by commemorating the contribution made by those United Kingdom participants who died through the action during operations in the South Atlantic in 1982, and by maintaining a book of commemoration and remembrance available on the internet, as a memorial to the personnel and civilians who died in the operations in the South Atlantic in 1982;
1.4. to relieve individuals who are in receipt of the South Atlantic Medal 1982 issued by the United Kingdom for their service in the South Atlantic during the period between 2 April 1982 and the 21 October 1982, and also their dependants, who are in need by virtue of hardship, sickness or old age by:
1.4.1. making grants of money to them or
1.4.2. providing or paying for goods, services, facilities, or assistance for them or
1.4.3. making grants of money to other persons or bodies who provide goods, services, or facilities to those in need or
1.4.4. sponsoring return visits to the Falkland Islands for those in need of relief from trauma or distress caused by their involvement in the 1982 South Atlantic operations.

2. Changes to the Articles and Memorandum

2.1. The Articles and Memorandum of the Association introduced on the 2 April 2022 remains in use.
2.2. objectives are given in section 1 of this report. The Articles and memorandum were also subject to a rearrangement of the paragraphs to make for easy reading. The actual requirements remained unchanged by this simplification.

3. Chairman’s Report

Annual Report for year 2023

Print Date: 8-Apr-25

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

3.1. In 2023, the Association lost co-founder Denzil Connick, a person whose determination and persistence brought about the creation of the Association in 1997. He died after a short illness.
3.2. He was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the very first Honours List of King Charles III, who is also the Royal Patron of the Association. Denzil was very pleased to accept the award, but died before the medal could be presented to him. The medal adorned the coffin alongside his South Atlantic Medal with Rosette and General Service Medal. This was a great comfort to his wife and family.
3.3. The year also saw the sad loss of a long serving trustee Lawrence (Chris) Jones, who had also represented the Association as our Regional Coordinator in the south-west. He had recently stood down from his duties to enjoy his retirement. The Association will miss his vibrant personality and his capability to create teams and harness their energy. The association sends condolences to his wife and family. May he rest in peace.
3.4. The Board welcomed four new volunteer trustees in 2023, to serve South Atlantic veterans, and we extend a warm welcome to them. Specific tasks and areas of responsibility were allocated, and the Board took the opportunity to initiate cross training to cover roles, should the need arise.
3.5. Trustees and members extend grateful thanks to the Airborne Riders, and their Chairman Paul Moore, who is a South Atlantic Veteran, for continuing to organise the yearly “Ride of Respect” around the graves and memorials of those killed in action in 1982. The ride this year took a different format, becoming regional by small groups of riders over two days, rather than one group covering the UK over two weeks. The event went very well, and I would like to thank all the regional rider groups for their participation and the donations raised. Trustees were able to attend various locations in support of the riders. To complete the circle, after delays, Paul and one other rider, were able to travel to the Islands via UK/FI Air Bridge. Using borrowed motorcycles, they paid respects at graves and memorials. With the help of the Falkland Islands Government Air Service, the ride was extended to west Falkland. Our sincere thanks go to all on the Islands who assisted this ride over five days. The donations raised from the rides in the UK and FI are greatly appreciated.
3.6. The SAMA 82 office in South Wales continues to support South Atlantic veterans with the highest standard of administration and organisation. Members are grateful to the whole team working together to make the South Atlantic Medal Association a successful charity.
3.7. The Association conveys our best wishes to our Royal Patron and we wish him good health.

4. Secretary Report

4.1. Due to the full resumption of the concessionary flight scheme, 2023 was an extremely busy year for the SAMA 82 office. For many years the Ministry of Defence has provided the concessionary flight scheme. We are grateful for their commitment and support in ensuring that medal holders can travel at a hugely reduced fare. The scheme run smoothly until later in the year and sadly the MoD were not able to provide concessionary flights for veterans to attend the Remembrance Day events being held in the Islands.
4.2. Much work has been done to improve our website. This is ongoing as we strive to provide comprehensible and accurate information and recollection of the Falklands conflict. In 2023 the new virtual Garden of Remembrance was launched, we thank Alan Dodsworth for his efforts in providing this.
4.3. We decided to create a photo gallery of Operation Taskforce and requested contributions from our membership. They immediately rose to the challenge, and we were inundated with images. I’m pleased to report that the ‘Ships of the Task Force’ section is now complete and viewable to the public on our website.
4.4. The SAMA 82 office endeavours to run efficiently and reduce our carbon footprint. We try to ensure that most of the correspondence is digital, and our website is used as an integral part of the SAMA 82 office administration. All applications are now made through a paperless website application process.
4.5. We encourage members to complete a Gift Aid form, and this can easily be completed on the SAMA 82 website. Gift Aid is not of any cost to yourselves but allows the Association to claim an extra 25% of any donations you make to SAMA 82 from the UK Government.
4.6. The SAMA 82 Newsletter is published twice a year for members and its beneficiaries. We take this opportunity to remind members that the newsletter if for you and we encourage anyone to submit entries. Whether it be a short story about their time in the conflict, a visit to the Islands, an event they are organising or have attended, a poem, a small gallery of images, any fundraising efforts you have completed or organising – it can be anything suitable and relatable for the membership.
4.7. As a charity, we rely on donations. Whether donations are made directly or through volunteers’ collections or via an event sponsorship such as climbing a mountain, a cycle ride. It is entirely up to you, how you wish to support SAMA 82 by fundraising so whatever your idea is, we’re grateful for your support. If anyone if thinking about raising funds for SAMA 82, please visit the website for further details on how to donate or download a sponsorship forms. We also ask that you inform the SAMA 82 office who can offer you support and advice.

Annual Report for year 2023

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

4.8. Jo and Marie from the office wish to take this opportunity to say “thank you” to all members for their continued support.

5. Public Relations and Charity Liaison

5.1. Media Roundup
5.1.1. 2023, following on from the 40th anniversary year of the FI82 conflict, unlike 2022, was a much quieter year for SAMA 82 with regard to public relations. Of course, there has been the usual level of activity within each geographical area which was run by regional co-ordinators, but essentially far less on the media (national or international) front. There have been a few enquiries from UK press concerning a few issues that have come to the foreground, but all dealt with and nothing of significance to report.
5.2. Significant Live Events
5.2.1. The 2023 AGM weekend took place in Swindon and went well albeit, as expected, the number of attendees was down on the previous year for the 40th anniversary.
5.2.2. The UK ‘Ride of Respect’ (RoR) took place across the UK again this year but in a different format to previous years which saw many simultaneous rides across the UK. Once again, the Airborne Force Riders and many others were well supported with many turning out at local RoR routes and venues, well done all that took part and supported this annual event.
5.2.3. The RoR also took place down south in the FI during October, when Paul Moore and Charlie McColgan went down, loaned the bikes and equipment etc and visited many of the grave sites and memorials scattered around the Islands. Once again well done to the Airborne Riders.
5.2.4. The annual service of remembrance was once again held in June at Pangbourne Chapel, this was once again very well attended with high numbers of SAM veterans and families amongst many distinguished guests.
5.2.5. Throughout 2023, many local events also took place across the UK, as many of these were reported in the newsletters of 2023, please read for further information. Well done to all those who gave their time to organise these events which of course are often run as fund raisers for SAMA 82. Thank you.
5.3. Remembrance Weekend 2023
5.3.1. Another healthy turnout for the Remembrance Sunday Parade at the Cenotaph, and after the 40th anniversary of nearly 400 marching, this year we were reduced to 200 tickets with 178 actually parading. Afterwards, some SAMA 82 members and families attended a post parade luncheon at the Union Jack Club where we were joined by Richard Hyslop (FIGO London) and Teslyn Barkman one of the FI MLAs.

6. Reporting matters to the Charity Commission

6.1. The charity has continued its dialogue with the Charity Commission, over the unauthorised payment from another charity to a former trustee of the South Atlantic Medal Association. Trustees of SAMA 82 continue to believe that the unauthorised payment was a breach of trustee conduct. The report to the Charity Commission regarding the conduct of SAMA 82 in this matter, was reviewed by the Charity Commission, and the concern, by the association over SAMA 82 and the relationship with the former trustee, was closed down by the Charity Commission.

7. Pilgrimage Statistics and Report

7.1. The trustees are looking into a scheme that helps to cover some of the costs of administering the flight applications. The office costs for each flight is generally in excess of £50.

	A	B	C	D	F
	Total Applications Received	Concession Fare Total Successful	Concession Fare Total Not successful	Applicant withdrawal	No Flight Available
2012	227	203	24	19	5
2013	132	114	18	13	5
2014	85	62	23	19	0
2015	114	93	21	18	3
2016	171	102	69	27	42

Annual Report for year 2023

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2017	201	144	57	22	35
2018	173	55	118	18	26
2019	172	68	104	22	15
2020	196	21	175	9	136
2021	97	0	97	0	97
2022	233	65	169	37	1
2023	205	142	63	56	7

7.2. A – Total number of concessionary flight applications received at SAMA 82 office.
7.3. B – Number of flights that were purchased through the SAMA 82 concessionary flight scheme.
7.4. C – Number of applications where no concessionary flight was purchased (A - B). C also equals D+F
7.5. D – Number of applications cancelled by applicants. (included in C)
7.6. The association is grateful to the Ministry of Defence for giving beneficiaries access to flights to the Falkland Islands over past years.
7.7. Out of the 56 applications that were withdrawn 30 had already been purchased by another organisation, a concessionary flight was not required, and an application should not have been submitted. This process ceased in May 2023. If the 30 are disregarded from the stats this would achieve a success rate of 81%.

8. Cenotaph Remembrance and Lunch

8.1. Representation at the National Remembrance at the Cenotaph was well attended by Association beneficiaries with approximately 178 veterans or next of kin of those killed in action marching in the SAMA 82 platoon.
8.2. On completion of the parade, 50 participants retired to the UJC for a lunchtime reception.

9. Website and Social Media

9.1 There are 1175 registered users of the web site.
9.2 During 2023 Steve Cocks arranged for the hosting of our website to be controlled directly by the SAMA 82 office. Our appreciation to Steve Cocks for his help over the last few years and his ongoing support.
9.3 Since the control of the SAMA 82 website was handed over to us in June 2023, it has gone from strength to strength.
9.4 The site has been streamlined to 380 pages; but continues to meet the objectives of remembrance, education, communication, and information. The main part of the site is fully accessible to the public, whilst our restricted members’ only area has 1185 registered users.
9.5 Our new online Garden of Remembrance went live to all members in July 2023.
9.6 Some considerable work has gone into the workflows, aesthetics and storage utilisation of the site, including a purge and tagging exercise of stored images, allowing a better user experience and futureproofing the site for the short and medium term. Our thanks go to Joanne Stevens, Marie Hurcum and Alan Dodsworth for their continued hard work.
9.7 The site and services remain stable, with only 1 outage throughout 2023, which in total lasted 3 days. This was due to a failure at the service providers end, compounded by the unavailability of the previous host controller. Now SAMA 82 has full hosting control, an incident such as this can be identified and resolved quicker.
9.8 The public area of the website contains general information, this includes history and aims of SAMA 82, details of the board of trustees, membership application, fund raising and donations, AGM and events notifications, welfare and support, SAMA 82 concessionary flight application, access to the online garden of remembrance, the Association shop and links to other organisations. A section detailing events and experiences of those who took part in the conflict includes a timeline, galleries, members experiences of the conflict and a poetry section.
9.9 The members only area of the website includes area and branch coordinators contact details, obituaries, Not Forgotten Association events and the collection of newsletters from 2009 onwards.
9.10The Association utilises several social media platforms to communicate with the public, members and beneficiaries this includes Twitter to broadcast selected information to the public.
9.11The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82) Facebook page is restricted to association members only and allows two-way communication between the members and the Association. There are over 1530 members of this page.
9.12Online applications for membership, concessionary flights and events can now be completed via our website.
9.13Site usage statistics 2023:

Annual Report for year 2023

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

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10. Data Protection

10.1. Trustees produced procedures and arranged compliance of the relevant data protection regulations. This will continue to be expanded and be tested against the requirements.
10.2. The trustees have prepared the following:

10.2.1 A risk assessment quantifying the severity of consequences and the likelihood of breach.

10.2.2 Identification of classes and individuals of data holders and classes of data held.

10.2.3 Identification of classes of data subjects associated with the risk classification and identifying the heading under which the data is held – consent, contract, legal obligation, vital interests, public interest, legitimate interest.

10.2.4 A procedure identifying the measures necessary to minimise risk, control and protect data, create the relevant expertise, assess through audit the compliance and short-comings and the reports required for trustees and annual reporting.

10.2.5 Trustees have produced and published a privacy statement for the website. This privacy statement was also published in the newsletter.

11. Health, Safety and the Environment

11.1. Code of Practice (COP), the purpose of the COP is to define the association’s commitment to ensure as far as is reasonably practical that the H & S of the membership, our staff and representatives, visitors, partners and others associated with our activities is paramount to the Association and its five-year plan. It also commits the association to the protection of any environment if impacted by its activities.
11.2. Statement of Intent: We at SAMA 82 believe that H & S and environmental issues hold an equal standing in the way the Association conducts its undertakings. Our ultimate aim is to conduct our activities in a structured manner to protect the H & S of our staff, members, third parties and the environment. Where existing standards are set by partners our goal will be to exceed their expectations of ourselves as a Charity.
11.3. Points to note:
11.3.1. Regional Coordinators and Area Representatives appraised of policy.
11.3.2. Suppliers and Partners in collaboration were made aware of the policy.
11.3.3. Recognition of the H & S policies of others and adherence to by ourselves.
11.3.4. Office and Meeting Room professionally safety assessed and recorded.
11.3.5. Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessments carried out annually.
11.3.6. Emergency procedure maps produced and available for meeting attendees.
11.3.7. Health & Safety is a permanent agenda item at Trustee meetings.

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

11.3.8. SAMA 82 staff office furniture ergonomically assessed and updated to meet current staff needs.
11.3.9. Stephen Penfold is the trustee with special tasking for health, safety and the environment.

12. SAMA 82 AGM Weekend 2023

12.1. The 2023 AGM weekend was held at the Alexandra House Hotel near Swindon and was followed by a service of remembrance at the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel located in the grounds of Pangbourne College.
12.2. Alexandra House is actually built on the site of the former Princess Alexandra Hospital which cared for a number of our colleagues following repatriation in 1982, thus making this a poignant location for a SAMA 82 Association reunion.
12.3. On the Saturday there was an organised shopping trip into Swindon and Eon Matthews manned a stall in the hotel raising welcome funds through the sale of SAMA 82 merchandise.
12.4. The AGM itself is well documented and following the formal elements of the meeting there was an open forum during which the future of AGM weekends was discussed. From the feedback it was clear that even though our membership is aging along with the inevitable travel challenges, the annual opportunity to get together and swap the same old stories over a beer is really welcome, so long may they last.
12.5. On Saturday evening dinner and entertainment were enjoyed by all and the combined raffle, auction and other incidental income raised over £1305 for the Association coffers. The evening also saw a very surprised Nicci Pugh being presented with her much deserved Association Life Presidency.
12.6. Sunday saw a good gathering at the Falkland Island Memorial Chapel for a service of remembrance officiated by the Rev Martin Kirkbride followed by refreshments before everyone went on their way, rounding out a successful weekend.

13. Activities

13.1. The Association engages in the following activities.
13.1.1. Sponsoring pilgrimages to the Falkland Islands to enable beneficiaries to come to terms with any PTSD or other emotional issues caused by their participation in the conflict. Few sponsored flights could take place in 2022 due to the Ministry of Defence postponement of concessionary flights.
13.1.2. Publishing a regular newsletter to all on the address list so that veterans can keep in touch with fraternity organizations, veterans, and the armed forces of today.
13.1.3. Maintaining and developing a web site with information about the association and the conflict.
13.1.4. Maintaining memorials at the NMA and a virtual garden of remembrance on our website in commemoration of those who died.
13.1.5. Maintaining a welfare structure so that those in need can be given access to the appropriate service charity or service support network.
13.1.6. Maintaining and developing a list of relevant memorials regularly updated to cover mainly the United Kingdom and the Falkland Islands.
13.1.7. Providing grants for South Atlantic veterans and dependants in need and for beneficiaries in need of immediate cash during an unforeseen crisis.
13.1.8. Running a regional structure to reach out to beneficiaries though local contacts.
13.1.9. Providing marked products to enhance the camaraderie of beneficiaries, project the work of the association and the lessons learned from the conflict.
13.1.10. Parading SAMA 82 standards at armed forces events, public events and private funerals.
13.1.11. Presenting displays and materials at armed forces days and other armed forces and military events across the United Kingdom.
13.1.12. Office open hours are 10am to 1pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday – Targeted at the association beneficiaries, it also welcomed other veterans who may wish to support the association and its objectives. We encourage beneficiaries to prioritise contacting the SAMA 82 office by email. The association secretary is available outside these times for cases of emergency.

14. Fund Raising Arrangements

14.1. The association has the following key fund-raising sources:
14.1.1. Initial membership fee of £10 per applicant which gives membership for life in accordance with the membership rules.

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

14.1.2. Membership fees for associate membership and honorary membership as set by the trustees and it is a one-off fee for life.
14.1.3. Investments mainly within “The BlackRock Armed Forces Charities Growth and Income Fund.
14.1.4. Just giving arrangements.
14.1.5. Membership donations.
14.1.6. Corporate donations and grants from other charities.
14.1.7. Other donations from those with an interest in the work of the association or the history and development of the South Atlantic.
14.1.8. Sales from the shop run from the office.
14.1.9. Collections at armed forces events in combination with a display of the association’s activities.
14.1.10. Local branch organised fundraising.
14.1.11. The HMRC provision of gift aid.
14.2. Trustees monitor and regulate fund raising activities and require a business plan for each project arrangement.

15. Achievements 2023

15.1. Sold £5272.10 of marked products to veterans and others.
15.2. Provided a grant of £250.00 to enable veterans to engage with the Dunkirk Little Ships. 15.3. Paraded the standard approx. 25 times (including funerals). 15.4. Membership numbers. SAMA 82 currently has 4486 members. 15.5. New members in 2023 is 129.

16. Made representation at the following events:

16.1. SAMA 82 Annual General Meeting 16.2. Pangbourne Remembrance Service (held virtually & in person) 16.3. Remembrance Parade, Cenotaph London. Approximately 178 members participated.
16.4. Remembrance Day Service, Edinburgh 16.5. Remembrance Day Service, Glasgow 16.6. Scottish National War Memorial Annual Service, Edinburgh Castle 16.7. Ride of Respect Memorial Visits (UK wide & Falkland Islands) 16.8. Official Flag raising service, Plymouth 16.9. Association of Dunkirk Little Ships Veterans Cruise 16.10. Liberation Day Service, Brisbane, Australia 16.11. Veterans Reunion Florida, USA Branch 16.12. Falklands Freedom Parade, Gosport 16.13. HMS Coventry Reunion 16.14. HMS Fearless Reunion 16.15. SAMA 82 Havant Branch Gala Dinner 16.16. SAMA 82 Christchurch Branch Gala Dinner 16.17. HMS Glamorgan Reunion 16.18. Armed Forces Day – Plymouth, Falmouth, Teignmouth, Babbacombe, Eastbourne & Portsmouth 16.19. Thanksgiving Service Bradford CC Offices 16.20. The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marine Band Concert, Plymouth 16.21. Eden Camp Falklands Service 16.22. Royal Hospital Chelsea Veterans Day 16.23. Liberation Day Service Chorley 16.24. Camping & Caravan Branch meetings 16.25. HMS Intrepid Reunion
16.26. Battle Day Service
16.27. Eighth Hospital Ship Uganda Reunion 16.28. Merchant Navy Day Service 16.29. HMS Invincible Reunion 16.30. Commemoration Service Sidmouth RBL

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

16.31. Buckingham Palace Garden Party (TNF)
16.32. Veterans Charity Tea Dances Plymouth x2
16.33. RBL Festival of Remembrances – Leicester, Plymouth & Bedworth 16.34. Motorhome Shows for charities – Newbury, Norwich & Malvern 16.35. Caravan Club Rally

17. Wider Maritime Community

17.1. The association is very keen to ensure that the Merchant Navy is a key participant in the association’s governance, activities and benefits. We don’t doubt that there is a cultural difference based on the purpose of the military and the trading purpose of the Merchant Navy. The recognition is marked by the sacrifices of the merchant seamen in the two world wars that continued into the South Atlantic Conflict. Indeed, the conflict and its outcome would not have been possible without the support of the STUFT ships and their compliments. Whilst outnumbered in persons by the military the merchant fleet outnumbered the military in ships. We continue to treasure the support, expertise and innovation of the merchant fleet and their courageous crews. Merchant men and women, you will not be forgotten; we value your full and equal participation in our association.

18. Financial Review (values in brackets for 2022).

18.1. The Association finances are in good shape. The accounts made some minor gains of around £9000 in our reserves but of course lost out for a second year to inflation. The stock market has reached some sort of plateau and is reluctant to move forward with all the uncertainty and instability in the world. With eighteen years left of our planned future we must visualise how we are going to fund the future years and how we disperse our reserves by the date set for our closure. SAMA 82 has a five-year cycle. We reach a peak of activity, donations and spending in years ending with a two and a seven. After these years there is a rapid decline in income from charitable sources and from the generous gifts of members, a slowing of spending, and a reduction in applications for membership. This report is for a year ending with a three and as predicted the pace of financial activity has fallen. Our banked and cash assets, for central funds, at the end of 2023 were £484496.51 (Last year £475,534.52) a gain of £8962. The accounts of branch funds are stable, and reserves are positive. It is the treasurer’s moment to thank the fund raisers and treasurers of the branch funds for Scotland, Camping and Caravan, Havant for their excellent work. Unfortunately, we have failed to receive any information from Christchurch branch and their balance is deemed to be zero until further information can be obtained.
18.2. The financial summary is distributed around the room as are the Statement of Financial Position. I am happy to take questions on policy now or if it involves detail then after the meeting.
18.3. Every Career comes to an end. I took over the treasurer job from my illustrious predecessor, Rick Jolly, in 2005 when the association was no more than a club, was very vulnerable and heading to insolvency. With the stewardship of Martin Read the association was given official and protected status and blossomed into a well-run charity and company. So it is time for me to hang up my calculator and, during the next year, I will be handing over the processes to my competent, and willing successor, fellow trustee, Alan Dodsworth. May I wish the association every success for the future and a fare wind for Alan.
18.4. The association is committed to and pays wages above the national living wage.
18.5. The association conducted a review of the pension arrangements for employees and made the necessary reports.
18.6. The SAMA 82 procedure “FinanceArrangement-04” is the in-house document covering the procedure for the management of the association funds. This document was last revised on the 10 Dec 2018.
18.7. Total incoming funds for the central funds for year 2023, £64,402.12 (£154,393.46)
18.8. There are a number of sources of donations, and they are as follows for financial year 2023:
18.8.1. Members’ donations: £15,385.32 (£18,266.76).
18.8.2. Corporate donations and grants: £1615.28 (£29,436.97).
18.8.3. Grants from other charities for year 40 events: £0 (£22,200.00)
18.8.4. Other donations not within the descriptions above were £17641.88 (£57,662.35). The association was again particularly grateful for the ride of respect which aggregated a very large donation to the association.
18.9. Our investment with BlackRock increased by £79,973.53 (£42,377.43). However, this was helped by the investment of £60,000 from surplus funds held in the A and B accounts.
18.10. Gift aid claim 2021-2022 £2516.27, Claim for 22-23 to be submitted.

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

18.11. Sales from branded items realised £1981.69 (£11,054.78) and stock costs were £3797.04 (£8,054.14). The shop has always run at a loss as it achieves our promotional aims, despite the office cost involved, but it does provide the opportunity to bring recognition of SAMA 82 by the branding.
18.12. Subscriptions – for the purpose of joining the Association totalled £890 (£2,600).
18.13. Total central outgoing funds were £55440.13 (£93,460.61)
18.14. Office costs including NI, tax, wages, pension, premises costs, routine office costs such as stationery and improvement of equipment and lighting £32766.00 (££33,304.77).
18.15. The inspector of accounts Mr Timothy Parrott kindly gave his services free of charge. Mr Parrott has agreed to inspect the accounts for 2023. We extend our gratitude to Mr Parrott for his dedicated service.
18.16. Travel and subsistence Expenses £1863.77 (£3,222.50).
18.17. Welfare grants were given from the FFA money. A grant was made to Dunkirk Little ships for services provided to SAMA 82 beneficiaries.
18.18. There are seven non-transient restricted funds, with only three having a lasting positive balance. These are the former Falkland Families Fund, the seafront bench fund and the National Memorial fund for maintenance.
18.18.1. Pilgrimage – used for the purpose of sponsoring pilgrimage, providing grants and defraying expenses used in the support of the pilgrimage programme. This fund has now run out of donor defined funds and is supported from the general fund. However, it continues to accept dedicated donations.
18.18.2. Remembrance Parade and reception – To support the Whitehall veterans’ march at the Cenotaph on remembrance Sunday. Veterans are invited to donate money for this purpose. The donated money funds the Lunch at the UJC. Status -£721.51 at the end of the year.
18.18.3. Memorial – The memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum was funded by kind donations from service charities, veterans of the South Atlantic conflict and other supporters at a cost of over £60,000. It was dedicated in 2012. A residue of £12963 (£12,963) remains for the continuing maintenance and care of the memorial. A significant refurbishment was undertaken in preparation for the 2022 events at a cost of £2,160.
18.18.4. Falkland Families Association FFA – money for SAMA 82 to disperse under a written agreement with the FFA and their legacy officers. £11109.70 (£15,909) remains from this fund which is open to application from former FFA members for travel to and from the Falkland Islands.
18.18.5. A sixth restricted fund dedicated to HMS Sheffield personnel began operation in 2016 and has accumulated £3,233.01, (£3,233.01). There were no office costs.
18.18.6. Pilgrims are asked to donate to sea-front benches for the Stanley foreshore as a mark of gratitude to the community for their hospitality to PTSD sufferers and visiting pilgrims. This stood at £775.00 at the end of 2019 and by the end of 2020 had reached £1,085, in 2021 it reached £1,185. There were no additional donations for this project during 2022. At the end of 2023 the fund stood at £1265.17.
18.18.7. The office is rented premises from Torfaen Council and provides a compact office sufficient for needs. It also provides an excellent meeting room, office, storeroom with attached kitchen.
18.19. Apart from the memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum, no property is in the ownership of the association or is or has been held in the names of trustees. The status of the memorial is that it was built and paid for by the association on land gifted for the purpose of holding memorials. Whilst this structure has little expectation of being sold it remains an asset and the association’s responsibility. It is in the interest of the Association to maintain it in good condition and apply a notional valuation.
18.20. Inflation reduced the association’s monetary assets by an estimated value of about £25,000. However, the use of generally available inflation figures, which are normally targeted at domestic consumption, cannot be reliably used for the spending pattern of the association.
18.21. Recurring annual charges, such as insurance, are expensed on payment provided they are less than £1000. 18.22. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
18.22.1. Strengths: The association has had a stable income over the last few years, and this has matched the outgoings closely. The trustee body works well, and the association has an excellent and well-motivated office staff. The Association updates suitable procedures for its operation and has the support of major service charities that provide guidance, advice, and a forum for expressing concerns the charity may have. The area, regional and branch system works well but the association is always short on numbers for local leadership.
18.22.2. Weaknesses: The association sees that the wider participation of the veterans is a weak point but, without doubt, the various events that are staged, and to which SAMA 82 sends representatives, always attracts veterans from the conflict, some of whom have never heard of the association. Over the last year a continuing growth in

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membership has been witnessed. The association donations are cyclical with bursts of income every five years. Trustees are frequently reminded of the aging and losses amongst the older participants of the association.

18.22.3. Opportunities: To carry on some of the work of the FFA and to use the funds made available for the effective benefit of the wider South Atlantic Family. The FFA fund agreement specified that the residual funds shall be transferred to the general fund for SAMA 82 use ten years after they were originally transferred to SAMA 82. With covid affecting this early agreement the time period has been extended to twelve years (2025).
18.22.4. Opportunities: The charity also foresees the growing need to support the elderly rather than the pilgrim and to fortify its trustee board with non-veterans to ensure its continuation until the 14 June 2042. It has already started to lay provision for this change.
18.22.5. Threat: The MoD allows the South Atlantic veterans to use spare seat capacity on their regular flights to the Falkland Islands thus lowering the cost of making a pilgrimage to the islands. This is a much-appreciated privilege and it is greatly treasured by the association. If this facility was closed to the association, it would clearly be a huge set-back for the organization and for those in need of help. Unfortunately, such decisions are often embedded in political expediency, and it will be difficult for SAMA 82 to influence outcomes. Nevertheless, we continue to talk harmoniously with the Minister for Veterans over the continuation of this much appreciated facility and, so far, the MoD has taken great care to enable best use of the flight facility by South Atlantic veterans.
18.23. The Association has a further 18 years of expected life and should wind up on the 14 June 2042 in recognition that those who served in the conflict, and still alive, would be under the care of other viable arrangements. It recognizes the need to reduce and exhaust financial reserves towards the end of its life. Discussion is underway over whether the descendants of the medal holders would wish to continue the existence of the association by making changes to the objectives appropriate to the changing purpose at a time around 2042.
18.24. Where a restricted fund is materially in deficit fund allocations are made at the start of the ensuing financial year to offset the deficit.
18.25. The financial accounts and documents were sent to the inspector (Mr Timothy Parrott) on the 7 February 2024. The accounts were presented to the finance committee on the 11 March 2024 in a video meeting. Those attending the finance committee were Chairman Thomas Herring, Treasurer Andrew Lockett, Alan Dodsworth, Brian Sherrington, Inspector of account Tim Parrott and Secretary Jo Stevens. The trustees met on the 19 March 2024 to accept the accounts and reports.
18.26. Four branches, Caravan and Camping, Scotland, Havant, and Christchurch, manage their own funds which are inspected prior to the SAMA 82 AGM. Their funds are managed and accounted for in accordance with the articles and memorandum of the association and are included in the statement of financial position summarising the assets and liabilities of the association. The trustees maintain a document defining the rules associated with the running of branches which is periodically updated.
18.27. A fifth branch, The HMS Sheffield Branch, uses a ring-fenced fund within the main SAMA 82 accounts for their income and the provision of grants.
18.28. The association is grateful for the hard work of Timothy Parrott who has inspected the accounts. His report
18.29. Trustee remuneration: No payments were made to trustees except those permitted for the payment of out-ofpocket expenses mainly on travel, subsistence and accommodation.

19. Report by the Inspector of Accounts – Period 1 Jan 2023 to 31 Dec 2023

19.1. The funds value was provisionally £514,212.77 on the 31 Dec 2023. The accounts were inspected and reviewed by Timothy Parrott (member) and this report was submitted on the 11 March 2023. Mr Parrott attended the finance committee meeting on the 11 March 2024. The accounts remain provisional as Christchurch accounts are unavailable.
19.2. Mr Parrott’s report.
19.2.1. Accounts have been inspected and found to be accurate in all respects.
19.2.2. The provisional funds value was £514,212.77 on the 31 Dec 2023. The Finance Committee need to review this total and set a new preferred maximum limit with regards to inflation and future demand.

20. Structure

20.1. The governing documents are the articles and memorandum of the company originally set up on the 19 February 2007. These governing documents have been updated firstly to enable the use of remote meetings and secondly to update the objectives and improve the readability of the rules and legal requirements. Both improvements were approved by the Charity Commission and Companies House in 2021-2022. The articles and memorandum were approved by the

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membership at the AGM 2022 and brought into effect on the 1 June 2022. The charity is set up as a private company limited by guarantee and is registered with the charity commissioners. The guarantee requires, in the event of the association winding up with liabilities, each member to pay £1 to defray the liability.

21. Governance and Trustees

21.1. The trustees are selected or proposed and then democratically elected by members from armed forces veterans, merchant navy, serving armed forces, retired people, and associated civilians. Candidates need an interest in and an understanding of the South Atlantic and its very special features. Some potential trustees take part in the regional networks and are elected on the basis of aptitude, interest and willingness to undertake the duties of a trustee. Training is organized to ensure that new trustees are properly informed so that they understand the duties, responsibility of trustees and range of qualities required within the governing body. Trustees have a duty to ensure that trustees are fit and proper persons to carry out the task of managing the charity and that any shortfall in meeting this standard is identified and appropriately managed. Candidate trustees offer themselves for election at the AGM. Trustees have the power to co-opt new trustees between successive AGMs. The upper limit of trustee numbers is nine.
21.2. From the 14 June 2017 associate members gained full voting rights alongside full members.
21.3. At each AGM no fewer than three trustees must step down and may offer themselves for re-election.
21.4. The training undertaken includes:
21.4.1. The read list of SAMA 82 documentation and COBSEO sources training notes.
21.4.2. Where possible trustees attend training courses provided by COBSEO or legal teams on their behalf.

22. Management

Chairman Tom Herring Treasurer Andrew Lockett, Secretary & Newsletter editor Jo Stevens, Governance & documentation Andrew Lockett, Alan Dodsworth, Jo Stevens AGM planning Stephen Penfold Annual Report collation Andrew Lockett Welfare Joe Erskine (Non trustee) Social media Marie Hurcum/Alan Dodsworth Areas/Branches Michael Sherrington Public Relations Chris Howe Pilgrimage/NMA PR Chris Howe Concessionary Flights Tom Herring Expenses & reimbursement. Andrew Lockett Appeals/Tribunals. Tom Herring Office Management. Brian Sherrington Liaison with other Charities Robin Turk/Tom Herring (Pangborne) Data Protection Joanne Stevens/Alan Dodsworth Health, Safety & Environment. Robin Turk Safeguarding Jo Stevens Website/Garden of Remembrance. Jo Stevens/Alan Dodsworth Newsletter compiling Marie Hurcum (employee) NMA Memorial Joanne Stevens/Chris Howe Finance Committee. Andrew Lockett/Jo Stevens/Tom Herring /Brian Sherrington/Alan Dodsworth Seafarers / ABF Liaison Tom Herring Equal Opportunities. Alan Dodsworth Grant Management Committee. Brian Sherrington/Chris Howe/ Robin Turk World-wide South Atlantic Memorials Marie Hurcum Collaborative events (Airborne Riders) Tom Herring/Chris Howe

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

23. General Organisation

19.1 The charity has two part time employees who run the office and the day-to-day activities of the association. The key employee is the Secretary of the Association. The Secretary is assisted by an office assistant. The office is open to the public weekly between 10am to 1pm on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.

19.2 There are three categories of member: full, associate and honorary. A procedure defines the democratic rights and duties of members. A joining fee of £10 is requested on joining. No further fees are mandatory.

19.3 In order to maintain good communication with the public, beneficiaries and members, the association has provided a new website which is maintained and continually improved to meet the needs of beneficiaries.

24. Regional Arrangements & other Charities

24.1. Association’s objectives and fraternity:
Yorkshire and Derbyshire – Tim Lewis
Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire – Vacant
Lancashire, Cheshire, Merseyside, Manchester and Isle of Man – Vacant
SAMA 82 Scotland Branch – Leslie Braby
Staffordshire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire and W/Midlands, - Vacant
Kent, Sussex, Surrey and London – Robin Turk/Eon Matthews
Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk – Nick Nicholson
Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Berkshire and Wiltshire - Vacant
Dorset and Somerset – Tony Powell
Devon and Cornwall – Roger Weale
Oxfordshire, Middlesex Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire – Tim Parrott
Cumbria, Northumberland Tyne & Wear and Durham - Vacant
North Wales – David Jones
South Wales, Hereford - Vacant
Guernsey and Jersey – Tim Slann
SAMA 82 Christchurch & District Branch – Bill McAlester
SAMA 82 Camping & Caravan Branch – Terry Beddoes
SAMA 82 HMS Sheffield Branch - Vacant
SAMA 82 Havant Branch – Phil Bundy
24.2. Overseas Representatives:
Spain & Portugal – Stephen Bland
Scandinavia – Graham Cordwell
Australia – Andy Brayshaw
Falklands Islands – Gary Clement
United States of America – Keith Douglas
24.3. The following Organisations have a close charitable relationship with the Association:
ABF The Soldiers Fund: Former holder of South Atlantic Fund Money and a supplier of grants to the Association.
Seafarers: Supplier of grants to the Association.
The Not-Forgotten Association. This association has been very generous to individual members of the association in providing hospitality and entertainment.
The Royal Navy and Royal Marines fund.
SAMA 82 Falkland Islands: Operates to support SAMA 82 visitors and the islanders.
Combat Stress: Organisation that provides professional treatment for persons suffering from PTSD.
Armed Forces Common Investment Fund (BlackRock) changed its identity to the BlackRock Armed Forces Charities Growth and Income Fund: An investment scheme for service charities to pool spare resources into one managed fund that benefits from scale. The whole fund is estimated to be about £315 million and in which SAMA 82 is but a small participant.
COBSEO: Confederation of British Service Charities who provide information, guidance, training and top- level connections for Service Charities.
Royal Chelsea Hospital.
Falkland Islands Government
Ministry of Defence

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

SSAFA : Processes welfare and grant applications for beneficiaries.

25. Governance Documentation

25.1. These are available on application.
25.2. The Charity is managed under a several procedures which defines the processes to be followed. Procedures are authorised by trustees, published electronically, and reviewed periodically for update.

26. The SAMA 82 memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum Staffordshire

26.1. NMA Memorial - The SAMA 82 Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, is designed to reflect the Falklands Islands' landscape. The main memorial is a 7ft (1.92m) curved wall made from Cotswold stone. Rocks given from the Falkland Islands landscape have been placed around the curved stone wall. The memorial wall itself is modelled on the larger cemetery in San Carlos Bay. The site also features two benches and several granite plaques on rocks taken from the Falklands. The memorial was officially unveiled at the SAMA 82 AGM Service 2012.
26.2. In 2022 the memorial was given a make-over in preparation for the AGM and ceremonies to mark the 40 years since the 1982 conflict in the South Atlantic.

27. Reference and Administrative details

27.1. Name of Charity: The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82).
27.2. Patron: His Majesty King Charles III.
27.3. President: Commodore Jamie Miller CBE Royal Navy.
27.4. Short Name: SAMA 82.
27.5. Charity Number: 1118842.
27.6. Company Number: 06113679.
27.7. Registered Office and Principal Office: Unit 25 Torfaen Business Centre, Panteg Way, New Inn, Pontypool, Gwent, Wales NP4 0LS.
27.8. Directors as at the 2 April 2023: Thomas Herring, Andrew Lockett, Christopher Howe MBE, Stephen Penfold, Alan Dodsworth, Robin Turk, Brian Sherrington, Michael Sherrington.
27.9. Directors as at the 31 December 2023: Thomas Herring, Andrew Lockett, Christopher Howe MBE, Stephen Penfold, Brian Sherrington, Michael Sherrington, Alan Dodsworth, Robin Turk
27.10. The above were also Trustees of the charity during the same periods.

28. The South Atlantic Medal Association 1982 is Supported by:-

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

A Company Limited by Guarantee – formed on 19 February 2007 - Registered Number 06113679 Registered as a Charity on 17 April 2007 – Registered Number 1118842

Patron His Majesty King Charles III

Association Founded by Rick Jolly and Denzil Connick President: Commodore Jamie Miller, CBE Royal Navy

Secretary Joanne Stevens

In 2022, South Atlantic Medal holders were given the freedom of the Falkland Islands and the cities of Portsmouth and Plymouth.

Short Annual Report - Period 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023

Andrew Lockett was the treasurer throughout 2023 .

Information within this report refers to the accounting year 1 Jan 2023 to 31 December 2023 unless otherwise stated .

Accounts maintained

Account A HSBC - Current Account Account B HSBC - An account linked to paypal Account E.

Account C HSBC - A deposit account.

Account D BlackRock - An investment account with the Armed Forces Charities Growth & Income A Acc used by many armed forces charities.

Account E A paypal account; collects donations, sales payments and makes payment of web costs. Account F An emergency cash fund of £100 retained for rapid supply of cash to beneficiaries.

Records: The accounts were kept using spread sheets and were inspected by Timothy Parrott.

Income

The income of the association comes mainly from membership donations, non-member donations, corporate donations, grants, investments with the Armed Forces Charity Growth and Income A Accumulation and sales. The association is grateful to all persons who donate to the purposes of the association, in particular, those who do so regularly through the direct debit or other schemes.

Where donations are given for specific purposes, the amounts are accounted for in a restricted fund and a running total maintained. The following dedicated money is accounted for, other categories are introduced where necessary:

Pilgrimage ongoing, Whitehall Remembrance parade and Lunch, Memorial ongoing support and maintenance, FFA Fund, HMS Sheffield Fund, Falkland Islands, Harbour Front Benches, Specified short term projects.

Members’ and others’ donations remain confidential.

Travel, Subsistence payments to or for Directors, Trustees, Employees, Supporters and Post Holders


J Fox	61.10	C Jones	68.80	S Penfold	67.60
C Howe	128.40	A Lockett	191.45	A Powell	151.36
M Hurcum	173.34	E Matthews	329 .00	P Wood	40.90

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The South Atlantic Medal Association (1982) (SAMA 82)

Sales from SAMA 82 Shop

Sales slowed and the office has reduced the stock holdings for cost reductions. The shop, by its promotion of the association is always non-profit making. We thank the office for the considerable work required to maintain the shop.

Web site

The web site has settled down and has not required significant expenditure except to populate and maintain it.

Insurance

Policy Bee Ltd was selected for our insurance in November 2023, premium remained the same.

Branch Accounts

SAMA 82 has five branches: The Camping and Caravan, Scotland, Christchurch, HMS Sheffield and Havant. Each of these branches (Except HMS Sheffield) maintains their own audited accounts which are entered on the Association’s Statement of Financial Position. The trustees extend their thanks to the treasurers of these funds.

Christchurch branch has not submitted any information for financial year 2023 and, despite efforts to expedite this issue, no information regarding the financial status of Christchurch has been forthcoming. As a result it has been assumed that the balance for end of year 2023 for Christchurch is zero. Further enquiries will be made to establish the future of the branch.

It is intended to transfer the HMS Sheffield funds into the general account as there has been no movement in the fund for many years and reassess other restricted funds for closure as they rarely or never have a positive balance

Company property and wealth

A property record is maintained, and appreciation and depreciation are calculated annually and entered on to the balance sheet. This provides a necessary record of “ownership” and the location of SAMA 82 property.

End of year balance (Central Funds)

Our end of year cash balance (Money in bank and investments) for central funds including restricted funds was £484,496.51 (Last year 2022: £475,534.52).

Trustees review of annual report

Trustees accepted the findings of the inspection by Timothy Parrott and this was recorded in the trustee minutes. We thank Timothy Parrott for his generous and diligent work as SAMA 82’s inspector of accounts.

Submission to Companies House and Charity Commissioners

The association secretary carries out the functions of reporting statutory and obligatory information to Companies House and the Charity Commission. This was carried out successfully for 2023.

Grants

The association has made grants to or for the benefit of the association grant beneficiaries over the last year of £250 to the Dunkirk Little ships and £4800 from FFA funds for the pilgrimage of a of a family.

Special Recognition

The trustees express their special recognition for the efforts of Paul Moore who has, with his motor cycling colleagues, raised a significant sum of money towards the reserves. His commemoration at the Falkland memorials and graves of the killed-in-action, held during the summer of 2023, were powerful and suitable tributes.

Summary

The membership growth continues at a steady volume.

Support

The Association marks its special thanks for the past support of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and looks forward to continued support from them. We also thank Seafarers UK for their support.

Associated Documentation

Full report – long report, statement of financial position – (balance sheet), summary & income and expenditure – table, inspector’s summary and report, stock assessment and valuation, asset list