Charity Regtstrallon No. 1121560 Company Registration No. 05352679 {England and Wales) NOINGHAm AND NOINGHAMSH1RE REFUGEE FORUM CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Graham Bell (Chair) Allan Njanji Helen O'nions Darren York Carolin8 Mombeyarara Graham Ferris (Treasurer) Heidi Richardson Jenny Rose-myers Paddy Tipping Fiona Becker Fahir Faleel Sam Crawford (Vice Chair) (Appolnted 20 January 2025) (Elected 14 November 2024) {Elected 14 November 2024) Management toam Frank Forman, Dlrector from 5th September 2022 Sonia Bilkhu. Team Leader from 8th July 2019 John Gordon. Flnance Manager from 4th March 2019 Debbie Royle. Deputy Director from 14th September 2020 Barbara Dhilwayo, Language Justi Manager from 1st June 2023 Charity number 1121560 Company number 05352679 Prlnclpal addre88 The Sycamore Centre 33A Hungerhill Road Nottingham NG3 4NB Audltor Rogers Spencer Newstead House Pelham Road Nottlngham NG5 1AP
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION (CONTINUED) Bankers CAF Bank 25 Klngs Hill Avenue Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ Unity Trust Bank PO Box 7193 Planetary Road Willenhall WV19DG Lloyds TSB Bank plc Bimiingham OSC Arlel House 2138.Cov8nty Road Sheldon B26 3JW
NOTTINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CONTENTS PAGE Page Trustees, report Independent auditor's report 12-15 Statement of financial activities 16-17 Balance sheet 18-19 Consolidated statement of cash flows 20 Noles to the financlal ststements 21-37
NOTTINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The trustees present their report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025. The financial statem8nts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out In note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's goveming document, the Companies Act 2006 and °Accounting and Reportlng by Charltles.. 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)° (as issued in October 2019), ObioCtiv•s and activltles ts and aims= The aims of the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum (NNRF) are expressed in the Objects of the Memorandum of Association. ststed as 'the promotion and provision of any Gharitable purpose directed to meet the needs of refugees and asylum seekers living in the City of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.. The activities of the charity include the free provision of: Advi. information and support for refugees and asylum seekers; specific sepiic8s are incorporated into the following projects - General Advice (gateway advice). Into the Mainstream (Health), Specialist Advice (Housing & Welfare Benefits), Young People and Refused Asylum Seeker Support (working with refused asylum seekers). All specialised projects contribut8 to th8 aims of the organisation. Vision: A Society where Asylum Seekers and Refvgees are welcomed. rece5ve just and compassionate treatment and support in rebuilding their lives. Mission: To support asylum seekers and refugees in Nottlngham and Nottlnghamshlre In galning just outcomes. rebuilding thelr Ilves and Integratlng Into society. We do this by: 1.Provldlng a safe and welcomlng space where everyone is treated with respect, compassion and dignity; 2.Offering free and impartial advice. 3.Positively embracing and c81ebrating drfferences: 4.Offering practical support to those who have no means to support themselves., S.Bulldlng effectlve partnerships with community groups and relevant organisations. 6.Empowering servlce users to rebuild their own lives. NNRF runs the following services.. General advice service drop-in, specialist advice in housing, Initial accommodation outreach support. welfare benefits. health provision. ESOL classes. social activities. a refvsed asylum seeker support service including food bank. interpreting, help finding employment, LGBTQl+ support, youth project, women's group and a community café and garden. It does this through a combination of drop-in services, on&t<H)ne appointrnents and home visits. clinics and Sla1 events. Public Benefit The Trustees confimi that Ihey have complied with the duty in sectim 4 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, 'Charities and Public Benefit,. the charity seeks to benefit the public through: The relief of poverty. suffering and distress among individuals seeking asylum and support in the United lfjngdom and in particular but not limited to the provision of specialist services and practical help.
NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Use of volunteers NNRF continues to receive 5UPPOrt from many individuals and organlsations, including those who give money and those who volunteer with us. Volunteers continue to be indispensable, wilh over 175 volunteers (including 250/0 with lived experience of forced migration) working across the Forum. and this year taking on a wider range of roles. Volunteering at the Forum offers challenging and exciting opportunities. We are only able lo deliver such a wide range and scope of serwices because of the invaluable contribution of our volunteers. Volunteering enables our volunteers lo maintaln their existing skills and develop new ones. It increases their confidence, improves their communication skllls and motivates them to keep active and engaged. Our volunteers embody diversity. enthusiasm. resourcefulness, professionalism and compassion. We are pleased to report Ihat we have been holders of the Investing in Volunteers award after achleving the national standard of good practice in managing volunt88rs first awarded in 2019. Quotes 'Great opportunity to contribute positively towards the community, learn skllls, and bulld a good CW Achlevements and performance We have contlnued to meet the needs of asylum seekers and refug8es through a changing landscape. Th5s year, the introduction of E-visas was something that required a specific response and, In partnershlp, we supported 660 people to set these up. In response to Ihe Rwanda detentlons In May 2024, NNRF set up a new response program, ensuring that all clients liable to detention were provided with cards carrying NNRF'S contact numbers. The program allowed NNRF to follow up with clienfs solicitors, link cllents with detention support groups and conduct regular welfare checks. Our Language Justice project interpreling services continues to provlde over 300 hours interpreting a week, and our Community Interest Company, Voices in Refuge IVIR). continues to develop. We have become an established safe and wdcoming centre for asylum seekers and refugees in Nottingham. Our community café 'Nariis' has flourished, offering activities and support. Not only does the cafe seek to provide a listening ear and a warm space, it also offers wifi, tharging points. hot drinks and free food. We seNe around 1300 meals a month. Ourvolunteer-led garden has grown, providing the opportunty to support the wellbeing of staff, volunteers and clients. Quotes From a n8wly recognised refugee who had secured housing: .1 am so thankful for your tremendous support during last few days. Your empathy and understanding in this difficult time has been a tru8 blessing.. Projact statistics In 2024-25 we supported a total of 4,239 clients with 7,148 separate cases. Other KPIS 852 number of asylum seekers sUPPOrted. 45 refused asylum seekers with no recourse to public fvnds provlded with monthly cash support 1139 visits to our food bank for refused asylum seekers with no recourse to public fvnds
NOThINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Project sLitistics ( continued ) 74 different nationalities represented 111 partner organisations worked with 13.000 meals served in Café Narjls 1.883 refuge8s and asylum seekers attended our dropin advi Serv1 where our team of volunteers and staff assisted 4,525 different cases. 728 asylum seekers and refugees were attended by our Specialist Advi Team 98 Women attended our Pamqa Group 310 clients supported through the varlous resettlement scheme Reserves pollcy The Forum aims to maintaln unrestrlcted reserves of beiween 2 and 3 months of consolidated operating expendlture. Thls level of reserves should be sufficient to cover the costs of winding up the Forum if that becomes necessary, specifically: Staff notice and redundancy payments- Rent, utilty. and any other costs due to temilnation of contracts; Professional fees. The reserves Gan also be made availabl8 for and should be sufficient to finance: Short term liquidity shortfalls." Any necessary restruciuring costs a5 available funding or service demands shift: One-off unbudgeted expenditures. Investment in staff capacity for a stridy limited time. Any such use of the reseeS is recommended by the finance sub<ommittee for authorisation by the full Board. The finance sub-committee and Board maintain overslght of reseDie levels over the year and the amount held is calculated precisely at th8 tim8 of ffin81 year accounts. If the level of unrestricted resetves is lower or higher than desired {over 2 or under 3 months operating costs) the matter is referred to the full Board to decide upon a response, such as devising a strategy for building CY reducing Ihem. At 31 March 2025 NNRF'S consolidated unrestricted reserves w8re £268k representing 9 weeks of operating costs whlch Is wlthln the parameters Included in the r8serve pollcy. Setting up designated reserves for specific purposes such as capltal Investment is decided upon by the Board outside of the normal oversight and management of NNRF'S reseNes.
NOThINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Pay pollcy for trustees, & senior staff The Trustees. and the senior management team comprise the key management personnel of the charlty In charge of directing, controlling running and operating the Charity. Trustees give of their time freely and don't claim any remuneration for their services. £196 of expenses were claimed in the year to 31 March 2025 - see Note 10. Salaries of all staff including senior staff are reviewed annually. Changes to staff terms and condillons induding pay rales are first discussed at HR committee and the budget impact assessed by the Finance Committee. Any proposal is agreed with the Trade Union before being formally recommended by the trustees on the Finance Committee for approval by the Board. The main factors laken into consideration before recommending a pay increase are increases in cost of livlng, equivalent rales of pay in similar local charities and budget affordability. Specific projects: Refusod Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (formorly Anti-Dostitution) The Refused Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (fonnally known as Anti-destitutlon project) helps refused asylum seekers with no recourse to public funds. Supporting with their immediate needs such as food and disposable cash. the project also provides help and support around clients, immigratlon cases via referrals. The project takes a holistic approach as there Is very rarely only one area of concern when dealing with this vulnerable group. Café Nariis The café aims to provide a safe and welcomlng Spa for asylum seekers and r8fugees to meet 8nd sociallse. We provlde drinks, lunches and snacks freew0fharge to clients and at a nomlnal fee of £3.00 for the stsff and public. Th8 café provides wlfl, books, informatlon leaflets and educational materials, as well as games and actlvltles. In 2024-2025 we have served over 13000 fr88 meals to asylum seekers and refugees. Client Participatlon The Cllent Participation Project S88ks to give refugees and those seeklng asylum in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire the opportunity to be heard, develop new and 8XlSting skills, and contribute to the life of the Forum. The project works on three levels, firstly by looking at integratino Experts by EXperIen (EBE) into the structure and the function of the organisation. Secondly. we look at the individual, trying to develop and nurture existing and new skills within the asylum and refugee community by creating dedicated groups, projects and aclivities to respond to their needs. We have a lived experience ccfflmunications group called Ihe Dream Team. Finally. we look ouiward to the community, forging partnerships, and running events to encourage integration, celebration and foster a connection to the wider city. Community events. activities and workshops take place throughout the year. General Advice General Advice serves as the first point of contact for many clients visiting NNRF. The aim of the project is to provide both telephone and in-per50n advice on a wide range of issues such as housing, welfare, asylum support and social activities. General Advice aims to resolve issues and provide bastc support. as well as offering referrals to other projects both inside and outside of the Forum. The project is run by a team of volunteers under the supervision of staff. Grassroots Community Gardon We have created a safe, green space where all dients (Induding children). volunteers and slaff can engage in a range of social. educational, therapeutic and creative activities, leam about nature, and grow plants and food or simply slt. Th8 project acknowledges that people. nature and the Climate are interconnected, providing an altemative outdoor space is a key part of Nottingham Refugee Forum's commitment to providing a holistic service for our clients. It is important that clients 'own' and bulld this project, fostering a sense of empowemient, ownership and belonging.
NOThINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Initial Accommodation The purpose of the Initial Accommodatlon (IA) project is to support, advlse and advocate on behalf of those asylum seekers currently housed in initial accommodation sites in the city and county. Thls Is primarily dellvered by way of a casework and advice servi. We facllltate access to services, support and community neorkS for our clients, as well as ensurlng that Ihelr basic needs are being met. In addition. we aim to coordinate the Nottingham wlde response to the IA hotels, through regular meetings with all partner organlsations involved with supporUng the residents. Language Juslice The Language Justice team provides Interpreters to NNRF cllents. staff and volunteers and English lessons to dients who have recently arrlved In the area. Our English classes are primarily aimed at those who are facing long walts for college places. We provide dasses at all levels. according to the need of the students who are referred to us. We train all our Interpreters In-house and all our employees volunteered with us before applying for a Job. We reoive appllcatlons for interpreting tralning from all over the worfd but prlorltlse asylum seekers and refugees for the Ilmited places on these courses. Through our Community Interest Company, Volces In Refuge {IfiR), we supply interpreters to external agencles and supply community Interpreter training around the UK and intemationally. Specialist Advice Team The Specialist Advice Team provides specialist advice and support to asylum seekers and refugees through complex casework. Our main areas of work are resettlement support for newly recognised refug88S, Post family reunlon support, welfare rfghts and benefits, homelessness and housing. compl&x asylum support issues, access to health and social care, access to education and employment. support for families with no recourse to public funds. SUprt for survivors of domestic or raclal abuse and support for LGBTQ+ cllents. Rosettlemenl Schemo including Afghan Relocatlon and Assistan PollGy (ARAP) and Afghan Citizon Resettlemont Scheme (ACRS) The AR4P scheme was launched by the UK government in April 2021 to relocats and resettle current and former Locally Employed Staff (LES) that worked directly wlth the Brltish Amied Forces, the British Embassy or otherwise aided British operations In Afghanlstan. The scheme was developed to resettle individuals who were Gonsidered most at rlsk from threat to life when the NATO troops withdrew from the country In September 2021. Subsequently, the ACRS was Introduced in January 2022 to support individuals who assisted the UK efforts In Afghanistan and stood up for values such as democracy. women's rights. freedom of speech, and the rule of law. and was extended to include vulnerable people. including women and girfs at rlsk. and members of minority groups at risk. NNRF has worked in partnership with the Nottingham City Councll and Nottlnghamshire County Council to provide specialist resetlement support to the ARAP and ACRS scheme holders since August 2021. The overall aim is to empower famllles to become independent and integrate into the UK. On 1st March 2025, these hvo schemes merged and were closed to new entranls on 1 July 2025. UK Resettlement Scheme (UKRS) The UK government launGhed the UKRS in 2021 as a continuation of the Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scherne (VPRS), but the criteria were 8xpand8d to accept vulnerable refugees globally. Resettled individuals and families have been Id8ntlfled by the United Nalions High Commlssloner for Refugees (UNHCR), based on criteria induding serious medical conditions, survlvors of torture and violence, and women and children at risk. NNRF has worked In partnership with Nottingham Clty Councll and Nottinghamshire County Council since the expansion of the VPRS In 2015 to provlde specialist support to newly arrived refugee families. As well as caseworkers supporting the families, the UKRS Employabllity Team work with all dients durlng their 5 years on the scheme. providing them with tailored employablllty plans. tralnlng courses and support in applylng for voluntary or paid positions. The cllents we support are predominanlly Syrian, but we also support clients from Iraq, Kurdistan. Somalla and Sudan.
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Volunteering Volunteering at NNRF is an opportunity to get involved locally and make an impact on the lives of the asylum seekers and refugees support. An eclectic mix of volunteers, from 52 countries and speaking over 42 different languages. provide a warm and 8c¢essible welcome to those in need. Across over a dozen different roles. volunteers glve their time, energy and commltment to solve problems, give advice. teach, cook, welcorne. infonn, interpret and much more. They are the heart and soul of NNRF. providing approximately 500 weekly knrk. hours. equating to £6000 per week if salaried at the 2024 real living wage. Youth Project The Youth Project provldes clIentntred holistic support, advlce and assistance to unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) and young asylum seekers and refugees aged 13-21. This includes challenglng Home Office age assessments. referrals to local educatlon provlders, slgnposting to local communty 8V8nts and support groups. empowertng young people to make choic8s and d8cisions and supporting them to access malnstream SeIceS to improv8 their emotional mental health and wellbeing. By running a weekly Youth Club and other activities, we alm to help young people develop frlendshlps and supp)rt netsvorks. gain confidence with the English language. and develop a fuffilled life in the UK. Club activities and a dedicated young person's caseworker allow us to stay in touch with young people, enabling them to understand changes in regulations and maintain access to services they need. Justice Together Initiative The Justi Together Initiative (JTI) Development Grant Project was set up with the 'end-goal' to submit a collaborative bid alongside partners from across the East Midlands. to secure funding for the provision of immigration advice and casework in the region. In general, this bid will consist of the bulk of the grant money going to OISC L3 'hub' organisations in each area of the region. Thls wlll fund senior advlserlcaseworker positions in these organisations to secure or expand capacity of high-level advice across the region. In return for receiving the bulk of the fundlng. these organisations will commit a portion of these roles (roughly 259A) to 'levelling-up' organisations of a lower accreditation but wish to raise thelr accredltallon and capacity. In Nottingham, this role wlll go to the Nottlngham Law Centre who will offer support to our OISC L2 working.
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Directors Report At NNRF, we believe everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their lives. Our range of services and projeGts look to do this. supporting those arriving in Nottingham as asylum seekers and refugees through to those who have been granted indefinite leave to remain. We continue to successfully operate in a challenging environment. with an increasingly hostile rhetoric around asylum seekers over past year, with the continued focus on those traveling to the UK by boat. The threat of deportation to Fknanda which was ramped up just before the local election of May 2024 sel the tone of challenges for the year. The whole charity sector is going through significant funding challenges with increasing competition when applying for granl funding and the cutbacks in local authority money. The staff and volunteers have shown great si11ence during an emotionalty challenglng year. Desplte the very challenging and dlstressing circumstances our dients flnd themselves In, we have created a safe and welcoming centre, where w8 Strive lo make sure that everyone is treated with respect and lislened to. Successe¥ Our community café 'Nafjis' continues to flourish offering, activities, support, a listening ear and providing a )Narm space. WI-FI, charging points, hot drinks and free focxl. Over the past year we have served over 13,000 meals at an av8rage of 1,300 meals per month and up to 95 meals per day. We rely on a team of volunteers to help prepare and serve and have had the pleasure of working with over 60 volunteers over th8 past year. With our clients we have created a calm safe space while Vlting for advice and support from our dedlcated staff and volunteets. Our Chrlstmas Gift Drive grew this year, which is becoming mor8 susSful delivering over 420 presents to famllies across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire supported by 12 wonderful volunteers. Delivery volunteers spoke atK)Ut the joy on children's faces at receiving presents and achieving so much in such a short period of time. We have agreed the heads of tenns on 15 years lease on our current building, giving us a Secu home. We have seen 4,239 separate clients supported and over 7.OCKI case5 We have been able lo deliver on our commilment to have greater representation from those with Lived Experience in our staff team with 9 of 17 jobs advertised appointed. Development and next year Our focus over the next year will be as follows: Developing partnership, the need for partnershlp working is becoming more important and fundlng becomes harder to secure and the challenges increase Funding and income. we will look to develop a longer-term income strat8gy looking at fundralslng. Income generation and grants Organisational development.. focusing on volunteering and the role increasing role that this may play in service delivery, case recording and efficiency and consistency In case management, worklng with thos8 wlth Lived experience and developlng our offer of legal support, which is a sector-wide issue Client services having clear exp8Ctations aboul what we offer and how we work. Monltorlng and evaluation, for us to be able to better show case our achievements
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Staffing As of 31 March 2025. we employed 52 staff of which 24 were full time and 28 part time. Of those 52 slaff, 15 have been recruited in the last 12 months, with 1 new post being a grants and trust coordinator. Chaifs Report Challenge and uncertalnty continue to define the envlronment within whlch the Forum operates. Despite the prevalllng condltlons, we have continued to deliv8r on our purpose durlng the last year, meetlng the needs of asylum se8kers and refugees and helplng them to rebulld thelr Ilves. In doing so. we have achi8V8d a number of notable successes and contlnued to develop our services and build our capabilities. l joined the Board of Trustees as Chair towards the end of 2024125 and I have already been hugely impressed by the expertise and commitment of our people - the connection with the organisation and belief In the work that Is being done on behalf of clients is immediately apparent. All of those involved can be rightly prouij of having supported wdl over 2000 clients through Its advice servi. delivered over 7000 hours of interpreting and provided over 13000 free meals in the cafe during the year. Looking ahead. NCVO recently described 2025 as the year of the 'big squeeze,, quoting multiple challenge5 facing the charity and voluntary sector. Organisations like ours not only have to contend with increased operating costs, but we also face greater competition for funding. Added to this. like every other organisation. we feel Ihe impacts of volatility and conflict, be Ihat at a local, national or intemational level. As we continue to offer support to those seeking refuge in the city and county. our long-term success will be defined by how we embrace the opportunities which present themselves: it wlll also depend on our ability to find new and better ways of doing things and to move into the spaces created by politiGal change and socio*conomic dlswption. I can confirm that the Trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit and use thelr resources to promote good govemance.
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Financial Review The year to 31 March 2025 produced a consolidated deficit after tax of £(70,762), which contrasts with a surplus in 2024 of £6,609. The main reasons for this worsening financial position are the expiratton of multi-year grants, and the need lo hire additional staff. in particular to enable us to deliver the resetdement contracl. Turnover from charitable activities grew by just over £90k. Income trom contracts run for Nottingham City Council increased by £150k. However. Ihere was a counteNailing increase in staff costs to deliver these contracts. Other charitable income fell by £60k mainly from grants finishing and not being renewed. The main income generating grants that generated income in 2023124 but were not renewed were with Refugee Action. Childn In Need (two multi-year grants reaching their ends). Lloyds Bank. and Forrester Trust. Of the deficit of £70.762. £50.485 is charged to restrictwj reserves. money we pul aside to rneet such costs frc*n contractual income or grants. The residual deficit reduced our unrestricted reserves. to £267.717 or 9 weeks of total annual costs which is within Ihe range required by our reserves policy. As in prevlous years our major customer vS Nottlngham Clty Councll (NCC) who contributed £855k towards charitable activity turnover of £1,280k (£1.28 million). This was £152k more than in 2024 which is explained by an increasing number of refugees being r&settled in Nottlnghamshlre under Home offi run resettlement schemes and additional funding for our Advice based services. We needed to employ additional staff to deliver on our obligations under these contracts so the additional revenue did not generate a significant extra surplus. Other funders contributed £436k towards our tharltable activlty turnover compared to £492k in 2024. The bidding market for new grants is becoming incr8asingly competitive. To try to tske this into account we adopted a more professional approach to grant funding in August when we appointed a part time Grants Ctrordlnator to work with the volunteers and staff who have prevlously done the work and hdp with grant writing and bidding. This investment has already bome fruition with new grants from Garfield Weston. and Swire Charitable Trust to support our youth caseworker and core costs, Our income from donations and fundraising increased by £5k in 2024125 with more Income comlng from fundraising events but with a drop off in one-off donations. Expenditure on charitabl8 activities incr8ased by £184k year on year. £162k related to increased staff costs. Made up with new staff costs and raising costs for all staff. Staff were awarded an average 3% cost of Ilvlng increase. We signed a new propety lease in January 2025 and that accounts for th8 increased property costs. The only other significant increase was a £17k increase in professional fees which vrfas related to oneff costs Incurred In delivering projects and HR support Gosts. The Consolidated Balan Sheet on page 20 shows £144k reduction in Cash balances. The increase in debtors of £42k mainly rdates to monies owed under the resettlement contract. The £25k increase in trade credilors is explained by timing differences around pension and social security payments. In 2025126 we face a numberof challenges. The Government's decision to increase Nats"onal Insurance by both raising the rate and by reducing the threshold at which it ts paid viill cost us £35k. We lost the contract to run the Into The Mainstream projecl. We won the tender for the contract to deliver Asylum Dispersal services. However we are no longer providing ESOL under contract a this is a SeICe others provide in Nolitngham. Encouragingly the resettlement contract was extended by 2 further years from 1 St October 2025. The contributions towards core costs from this contract will continue to depend upon the number of fUgeeS resettling in Nottinghamshire. To retum to a break even position it will be necessary for us to make sensible cost savings whilst protecting service delivery and continue to win contracts for the delivery of services, like resettlement. We also need to generate more unrestricted income. that is inwme not tied to costly increases in service delivery. Fundraising and increased income from Voices Sn Refuge are SoUS of unrestricted inGome. Finally. we need to obtain repeat funding from existing grant funders and, if possible given the very tight funding envlronmenc to wln new fundlng that support core costs or our exlstlng projects. If we do not find additional income in any or all of the ways described above then we wlll need to restructure our organisation in order to reduce costs to a sustalnable level. The Board has approved a proposal to reduce costs and malntaln stsblllty and protect servlces.
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Structure, governance and managemont The tharity is a company limited by guarantee and Is a reglstered charity (number 1121580). It is operated under the rules of its memorandum and artlcles of association dated 13 January 2005. It has no share capltsl and the liability of each member in the event of wlnding-up is limited to £1. The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of slgnature of the financial statements were: Graham Bell (Chair) Allan Njanji Helen O'nions Darren York Caroline Mombeyarara Jennrfer Flemming (Chair) Roger Tanner Graham Ferris (Treasurer) Heidi Richardson Jenny Ros&Myers Paddy Tipping Fiona Becker Fahir Faleel Sam Crawford (Vice Chalr) (Appointed 20 January 20251 (Resigned 14 November 2024) (Resigned 14 November 2024) (Elected 14 November 2024) (Elected 14 November 2024) R•cruitment and electlon of trustees Trustees are elected at the AGM through vote by the membership, unless there ar8 fewer applicants than spaces. in which case they are automatically elected. In addillon the Board may co-opt up to 2 new members. Organlsatlonal structurn The Governance on the charity is perfomied by the Board of Trustees who delegate some authorfty to sub- committees: Finance, Funding, Fundralslng. HR and Health & Safety. The day-t041ay running of the organisation Is delegated to the management team. NNRF Board Risk statement The Board recognlses Its responsibility to Identify, assess and manage any risks is linked to the achlevement of NNRF'S objectives. The Board and its sub-committees have developed a register of the risks that could face the work and safe operation of NNRF. This register. Identifies nsks Assesses risks in terms of their likelihood and impact Sets out actions to be taken to reduce the risk where possible The Risk Register covers the range of risks that the organisation might face including financial, govemance, operational. external, regulation and reputational risks. Sub-committees are responsible for some sections of the risk register and consider rlsk at each sub-group meeting. The risk register is formally reviewed at the full Board meeting twice a year in June and December. It is updated as necessary with regard to the likelihood of the risk, its possible impact and mitigating actions. However. risk management is on-going and sub-committees can also bring changes to the risk gIster to any Board meeting if necessary. The maln risks faced by the organisation at present are considered to be staff wellbeing and financial security. 10-
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Statement of trnstees. responsibilitlOS The trustees, who are also the directors of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Fowm for the purpose of company law. are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the finandal statements in accdanCe wlth applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standar(Is (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company Law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, Including the inccxne and expenditure. of the charitable company for that year. In preparing these financial statements. the trustees a required to: seleGt suitable accounting polldes and then apply them consistently. - observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2019 {FRS 102)., - make Judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent: stste whether applicable UK Accountlng Standards have been followed, subject to any material dep8rtures dlsdosed and explained in the financial ststements; and prepare the tlnanclal statements on th6 going concam basis unless it is in8ppropriate to presume that th8 charlty will conth'nue in operatlon. The trustees are responsible for keeplng adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any lime the financial position of Ihe charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also r8sponsible for safeguarding th8 assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Disclosure of inforniation lo audilor Each of the trustees has conflnmed that there is no Informatlon of whlch they are awar8 which is relevant to the audit. bul of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such levant information and to estsblish that the auditor is aware of such information. The trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and flnanclal Infonnation included on the charltable company's website. Legislation in the Unlted Klngdom govemlng the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. The tNstees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees. Graham Bell (Chalr) Trustee Dated: I Graham Ferr18 (Trea8urer) Trustee Dated: 13 l( 11
NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM Oplnion We have audited the financial statements of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum (the 'parent charitable compan) and its subsidiary (the 'group') for the year ended 31 March 2025 which Comprise the consolidated ststement of financial activities, the consolidated and charity balance sheet, the consolidated statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements. including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporling Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Iland (United lQngdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion, the financlal statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the group's and parent charitable company's affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of its inGoming SOurS and application of resources, for the year then ended., have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted A¢countlng Pradlce. and have been prepad In accordan wlth the requlrements of the Companies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audlt In accordanc8 With Int8rnational Standards on Auditing (UK) {ISAs (UK)} and appllcable law. Our responslbilities under those standards are further described In the Auditorfs responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent charitable company in accordance with the ethical requlremenls that are relevant to our audit of the Ilnanclal statements In the UK. Indudlng the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibililies in 8ccordanc8 with th888 requirements. We believ8 that the audit eviden we have obtalned is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. ConGluslons relatlng to going concern We have nothlng to report in r8SP8Ct of the following matters in relatlon to which the ISAS (UK) require us to report to you where: the trustees, use of the going concern basls of accountlng In the preparation of the financial statements is not approprlate; or the trustees have not disclosed in the financial statements any identlfled material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt aboutlhe group's or parent charitable company's abillty to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accountlng for a period of at least iwelve months from the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Other information The trustees are spOnSible tor the other infonnation. The other infomiation comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statemerrts and our auditors report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and. except to the extent otherwise explicitly slated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the finanGial statements. our responslbllity is to read the other information and. in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in Ihe audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we a required to determine whether Ihere is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the olher infomiation. If. based on Ihe work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other infonnation, we are required to report that fact. We have nothlng to report in this gard. 12-
NOThINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM Extent to whlch th6 audit was considerod capable of detecllng Irregularitiés, includlng fraud Irregularities, induding fraud. are instancas of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above. to detect material misstatements in respect of Irregularities. including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting IegUlarit[es, including fraud is detailed below. Identlfying and assessing potential rlsks related to irregularities Our approach to identifying and assessing the risk of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-complian with lav1 and regulati{$. as follows: The engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence, capabilities and skills to identify or reciyJnise non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations: We identified the laws and regulations applicable to the charity through discussions with trustees and olher management. and from our commerclal knowledge and experlence of the sector. We focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct materlal effect on the financial statements or the operatlons of the charity. including the charities act, taxation legislatton and data protection, anti-bribery. employment. environmental and health and safety legislation. We assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through maklng enquiries of management and Inspectlng monthly board minutes. Identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audlt. We assessed the Su$pIlblIIty of the charity's financid statements to material misstatement, includlng obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur. by Making enquiries of management as to where they consldered there was susceptibility to fraud.1heir knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud,. Considering the internal ntrOlS in place to mltlgate rlsks of fraud and non-compllance with laws and regulations: and Understanding the design of the chaiity's remuneration poliaes To addre&8 the rlsk of fraud through managemenl bias and override of controls. we: Performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relatlonships. Tesied joumal entries to identify unusual transactions. Investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions. In response to the risk of irregularities and non-complian with laws and gulatiOnS. we designed procedures which induded. but were not limited to: Agreeing financial statement disdosus to underlying supporting documentation; Reading the minutes of meetings of those charged with govemance" Enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims. There are inherent limitations in our audit prOdureS described above. The more removed that laws and regulations are from financial transactions, the less likely it 15 that we would become aware of nonThcompliance. Auditing standards also limit the audit procedures required to idenlify non-compliance with laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and olher management and the inspection of regulatory and legal correspondence. if any. Material misstatements that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those Ihat arise from error as they may involve deliberate concealment or collusion. 13-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM INDEPENDENT AUDrroR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF NorriNGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM Opinions on other matters prgscrlbed by Ihe Companies Act 2006 In our oplnlon, based on the work undertaken in the course of our audit: the infomiation given in the trustees, Report, which includes the directors, report prepared for the purpos8s of company law, for the financial year for whlch the financial statements ar8 prepared is conslstent viith the financial statements; and the directors, report included within the trustees, report has been prepared in accordance wlth applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are required to report by exceptlon In the Ilght of the knowledge and understanding of the group and parent charitsble company and its enwronment obtained in the course of the audlt, we have not identified mat8rial misstatements in the diredors, report induded We have nothlng to report in respect of the following matters in relation to whlch the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our oplnion: adequat8 accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not vlslted by us: or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and retums; or certaln dlsclosures of trustees. remun8ration specified by law are not made; or we have not recelved all the information and explanations we require for our audlt. or the trustees were not entitl to prepare the financlal statements in accordanc8 with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies, exemptions in preparing the trustees, report and frorn the requlrement to prepare a strategic report. Responsibilitles of trusteos As explalned more fully In the statement of trustees, responsibllltles, the trustees. who are also the dlrectors of the charity for the pUoSe of company law, are responsible for the preparation of the financial ststements and for belng satisffied that they glve a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determlne is necessary to enable the preparation of financlal statements that are free from material misstatement. whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements. the trustees are responsible for assessing the group's and parent charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable. matters related to golng concem and using the going concern basls of accountlng unless the trustees either Intend to liquidate the group or th8 parent charltable company or to cease operallons, or have no realistic altemative but to do so. Auditorfs responslblllties for the audlt of Ihe flnanclal statements We have been appointed audltor under the Companies Act 2006 and report In accordance wlth this ACL Our obj8Ctives are to obtsin reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement. whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditorfs report that Includes our oplnlon. Reasonable assuran is a high level of assurance. but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted In accordan with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when It exists. Misstatements can arfse from fraud or error and are considered material if. Individually or In the aggregate. they Cld reasonably be expected to influence the economic decislons of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. A further descrfptlon of our responsibilities for the audlt of the finandal statements Is located on the Flnancial Reporting Council's website at: http.'IAvww.Irc.org.uklauditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditorfs report. 14-
NorriNGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED) TO THE MEMBERS OF NorriNGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM Use of our rnport This r8POrt is made solely to the charitable companrfs members. as a body, in accordan with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companles Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable companys members those matters we are requlred to state to them In an auditors, report and for no olher purpose. To the fullest extent pemiittéd bypl ..we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable aKy's members as a body. for our audit work, for this report. or for the opinions we have formed. Melvin Bailey p(CA DChA (Senior Ststutory Audilor) for and on behalf of Rogers Spencer Newstead House Pelham Road Nottingham NG5 1AP Chartered Accountsnts Statutory Audltor Rogers Spencer is eligible to act as an auditor in tenns of section 1212 of the Companles Act 2006. 15-
NOTTINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Currant financial year Unrostrlcted Restrlcted funds funds 2025 2025 Tolal Totsl 2025 2024 Notes Incom from: Income from donations and legacies Income from charitable activities Incom8 from other trading actlvltles Income from investments 66,849 264,832 89,019 7.659 10,487 1,015,314 12,129 77,327 1.280,146 101.148 7.659 96.175 1,189,604 39.327 8,039 Total income 428.359 1,037,921 1.466,280 1.333.145 Ex nditure on: Charitable activities Other trading activities 481,733 40.653 1.012.356 1,494.089 40,653 1,310.005 15,462 Total expendlturo 522.386 1,012,356 1,534.742 1,325.467 Net Incomel{exp8nditure) (94,027) 25.565 {68.462) 7,678 Transfers between funds 17 76.049 (76,049) Tax on activities 12 (1,069) Not m0ment in funds (17.978) (50,484) (68,462) 6,609 Fund balances at 1 Aprll 2024 287,994 83,088 371,082 364.473 Fund balances at 31 March 2025 270,016 32.604 302,620 371.082 The ststement off financial actlvlties Includ88 all gains and losses recognlsed in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The statem8nt of financial advltles also complies with the requlrements for an income and expendlture account under the Companies Act 2006. 16-
NorriNGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Prior financlal year Unrestrlcted Rostricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total Totsl 2024 2023 Notes Income from: Income from donations and legacies Income from charitable aclivities Income from other tradlng activities Income from investrnents 80.903 280,834 28.472 8.039 15,272 908,770 10.855 96.175 1.189,604 39.327 8,039 82,396 998.918 58,145 2,788 Total income 398.248 934.897 1,333,145 1,142.247 Ex enditure on: Charitable activities Other trading activities 412.954 15.462 897.051 1,310.005 15.462 1.121.479 6,327 Totsl expendlture 428,416 897.051 1,325,467 1.127,806 Net Incomd(expendtture) (30.168) 37,846 7,678 14.441 Transfers belween funds 17 112,315 {112.315) Tax on activities 12 (1,069) {1.069) (1,820) Nèt movement In funds 81,078 (74.469) 6.609 12.621 Fund balances at 1 April 2023 206,916 157,557 364.473 351.853 Fund balances at 31 March 2024 287,994 83,088 371,082 364,473 The statement of flnancial activities includes all galns and losses recognised in the y8ar. All Income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The statement of flnandal acuvlties also Complies wlth the requirements for an income and expendlture account under the Companies Act 2006. 17-
NOThINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 13 14.021 14,750 14 248,922 474.592 207,112 617,942 723,514 825,054 Creditors: amounts falllng due within ono year 15 (434.915) {468,722) Net current assets 288.599 356.332 Total assets less current liabilitleslNet asséts 302.620 371.082 Income funds Restricted funds 18 32,604 270,018 83,088 287,994 Unrestricted funds 17 Total Gonsolidated funds 302,620 371,082 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance wlth the provisions applicabl8 to companies subject to the small companies regime. The financlal statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on Graham 8811 {Chair) Trusteg Graha Trustee Ferns Treasurer) Company Registratlon No. 05352679 18-
NOTTINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CHARITY BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notas Flxod assots Tanglble assets Current assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 13 14,021 14,750 14 264.080 421,824 214,852 558.530 685,904 773,382 Creditors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 15 {432,880) (448.206) Net current assets 253,024 325.176 Total assets less current liabilitieslNet assets 267,045 339,926 Income funds Restricted fijnds Unrestrlcted funds 18 17 32.604 234,441 83.088 256,838 Total charity funds 267,045 339.928 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime. The financial tements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees on 13 Zrtc 11 (Chair) Graham Ferns (Treasurer) Trusteo Trustee Company Registration No. 05352679 19-
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 2025 2024 Notes Cash flows from operating activltles Cash (absorbed byygenerated from operations 23 (145.377) 1.069 (146.446) 2,528 Corporation lax Net cash (oufflowyinfflow from operating activities 708 Investing activities Purchase of tangible fixed assets Interest rerEived (4,563) 7,659 {4.738) 8.039 Net cash generaled from Investing activities 3.096 3,301 Net (decreag0)lincrease In cash and cash equivalents (143.350) 4,009 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 617.942 613.933 Cash and cash equlvalgnts at end of year 474.592 617.942 -20-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting pollGles Charlty information Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated England and Wales. The registered office is 33a Hungerhill Road, Nottingham, NG3 4NB. Accounting convention The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governlng document, the Companies Act 2006 and 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charitles preparlng thelr accounts In accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 102). {as Issued In October 2019). The charity is a Publlc Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetsry amounts in th8se financial statem8nts are rounded to the nearest £. The financial ststements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include invesknent properties and certaln financlal instruments at falr value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 12 Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements indude the financial statements of the parent charitsble company and its subsidiary undertaklng. Voices In Refuge CIC (company number 10517672). Golng concern At the tlme of approvlng the financlal statements, Ihe trustees have a reasonable expectation that th8 charlty has adequate resources to continue In operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in prerIng the financial ststements. 1A Charitable funds Unrestrlcted funds are avaliable for use at the dlscretlon of the trustees In furtherance of their charitable objeclives unless Ihe funds have been designated for other purposes. Designated funds comprise funds which have been set aside at the discretion of the trustees for specific purposes. The purposes and uses of the deslgnated funds are set out In the notes to the financial statements. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial slatements. Incomlng resources Income is recognised when the charity is legslly entitled to it after any perforniance conditions have been me( the amounts can be measured reliably. and it is probable that income will be received. Cash donatlons are recognlsed on recelpL Other donatlons are recognlsèd once the charlty has been notified of the donation, unless performance Conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in r81ation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised al the time of the donation. Legacies are recognised on recelpt or othernlse If the charfty has b8en notlfled of an Impending distribution, the amount Is known. and rlpt Is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy Is treated as a contlngent asset. Gr8nts are recognlsed when the charity has an entitlement to the funds and any conditions linked to the grants have been met. Wh8re perfomiance conditions are attached to the grant and are yet to be met, the income is re3nised as a liability and included on the balance sheet as deferred income to be released. 21
NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accountlng pollclos (continued} Deferred income represents amounts received for future periods and Is released to incoming resources in the period for which it has been received. Such income Is only deferred when.. - the donor specifies that the grant or donatlon must only be used In fvture accounting periods., or - the donor has imposed conditions which must be met before the Charity has unconditional entitlement. Tumover is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivab18 and represents amounts receivable for goods and services provlded In the nomial course of business, net of discounts, VAT and other sales related taxes. 1.6 Resources expended All expenditure 15 recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligalion to Ihal expenditure, it is probable settlement is required and the amount can be rneasud lIablY. All costs are allocated to the applicable expenditure heading that aggregate STmilar costs to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of resource5, Wlth central staff costs allocated on the basis of time spent. and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the assefs use. Other support costs are allocated based on the spread of staff costs. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the Charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It inGludes both costs that Can be allocated directly to such aclivities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. 1.7 Tangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets costlng more than £500 ar8 initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cort net of depreciation. Depreciation is recognlsed so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over thelr useful lives on the following bases.. General equipm8nt IT equipment Café equlpment 200k straight line 20% stralght Ilne 100/0 straight line The gain or loss arising on the disposal ot. an asset is determined as the dlfference beeen the sale proceeds and the carying value of the asset, and is recognised in net incomel(expenditure) for the year. Intangible as5et5 Wlth indefinite useful lives and intangible assets nol yet available for use are tested for impairment annually, and whenever there is an indication that the asset may be impaired. 1.8 Employee benefits The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee'5 services are received. Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to temiinate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 1.9 Relirement beneflts Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expens8 as they fall due. 1.10 Taxatlon The tax currently payable is based on the subsidiary's taxable surplus for the year. Taxable surplus differs from net surplus as reported In the income and expenditure account because it excludes ilems of Income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The company's liability for current tax is calculated uslng tax rates that have b88n enacted or 5ubstantlvely enacted by the reportlng end date. -22-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Critical accounting estimates and Judgements In the appllcatlon of the charity's accounting policies. the trustees are required to make judgements. estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and 1labll1es that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estlmates and associated assumptions are based on historfcal experlence and other factors that are ¢sIdered to be relevant. Actu81 results may differ from th8S8 estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in th8 perfod In whlch the estlmate Is revlsed where the revision affects only that period, or in the perfod of the revision and future periods where the revlslon affects both current and future periods. Income from donatlons and logacios 2025 2024 Other donallons Enthuse- Webslte donatlons Gift Aid Big Give Trust Luminarium 25,463 30,789 12,036 9,039 45,473 25.304 12.096 8.729 4,573 77,327 96.175 Analysis by fvnd Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 66,850 10,477 80.903 15.272 77,327 96,175 NNRF raised £77,327 in donallons (2024: £96.175). NNRF had 62 regular monthly donors contributing £30k with the rest being ralsed from one-off donatSons ranging from £5 to £5,000. -23-
NOThINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Income from Charitable activities 2025 2024 The Lady Hlnd Trust Nottingham City Council The Henry Smith Charity Lloyds Bank Foundation St Ann's Advice Group BBC Children in Need Framework Houslng Associalion FN Charitsble Trust The AB Charltable Trust Refuge8 Early Action JN Derbyshire Trust The National Lottery Community Fund Garfield Weston Foundation Forrester Famlly Trust JuSte Tog8ther University of Nottlngham Thomas Farr Charity Gemini Trust Mbili Charltable Trust Whitaker Charitab18 Trust Jessie Spencer Trust The Jones 1986 Charitsbl8 Trust Awards For All Evan Comlsh Fund The Postcode Lottery SJICD Grant Swire Charitable Trust Café income Rental income other Income S.OCNJ 854,605 60,OCKI 2,000 702,138 60,000 21,000 157 29.846 13.408 7.172 2,000 5.000 59.231 2.000 140,207 5,000 30.000 200 38,690 6,000 173,415 7,500 3,600 4,225 3,000 32,000 2,000 2,000 5,000 15,000 2,500 3,000 29.334 1,000 10.000 8,750 4.100 9.000 3.500 10.1)00 10.000 5.467 9.667 18.601 16.667 7,530 10,000 19,242 1.280,146 1.189.604 Analysis by fund Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 264.832 1,015.314 280,834 908,770 1.280,146 1.189,604 -24-
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Income from other trading aGtivities 2025 2024 Fundraising income Interpreting fees 37,988 68.020 14.708 24,619 101.148 39.327 £12,129 of th8 abov8 amounts r8C8lved related to restrfcted Income (2024 - £10.855). Income from investments 2025 2024 Interest reeEivable 7.659 8,039 Other tradlng a¢tlvltles - expendlture 2025 2024 Freelance Interpreters staff training IT Costs Travelling Volunteer expenses Subscriptions Legal and professional fees Accountancy Stationery Advertising Telephone Bank charges Insurance Entertaining Sundry 22,960 8,663 1.460 2,187 6,998 1,874 1.062 44 421 647 2.622 99 150 62 128 481 30 683 1,073 854 581 550 40,653 15,462 -25-
NorriNGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Charitable activltles - expendlture 2025 2024 Staff cosls Other staff costs Depreciation Activities Bank charges Cleanlng Donations & grants awarded Food & refreshments Insurance IT SOare & maintenance Legal & professional fees other expenses Photocopylng & printing Premises. repairs & malntenanc8 Publications & subscriptions Rent & S8TVIC88 Sleeping kits Statlonery & office supplies Telephone, post & Intemet Tralning Travel Volunteer expen88S 1.165,614 12,366 5,292 12,950 742 1,556 26,722 26,795 5,447 15,710 38,270 11,775 11,495 7,909 14,007 45,930 7,948 785 27,123 12,592 9.881 2.893 1,017,074 4.311 12.337 3.324 31.677 27,978 5,114 16,344 21.052 5,899 13,221 20,084 10,715 38,298 5.061 1,504 23,421 9,222 9,269 3,260 1,463,582 1,281,033 Share of governance Costs (see not8 9) 30.507 28.972 1.494,089 1,310,005 Analysis by fund Unrestrlcted funds Restrlcted funds 481,733 1,012,356 412,954 897.051 1,494,089 1,310.005 Governance Gosts 2025 2024 Staff costs Audit & accountsncy fees 17,963 12.544 15.850 13,122 30,507 28,972 Induded withln Audit & accountancy fees above Is £10,000 (2024 - £10,000) in relation to audlt fees. -26-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 10 Trustses None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year. Expens8s were incurred by the trustees on behalf of the charity during th8 year as follows. 2025 2024 Board Administration 196 11 Employees Number of employees The average monthly number of employees during the yearwas: 2025 Number 2024 Number 55 51 Employment costs 202S 2024 Wages and salaries Social security costs Other pension costs 1,075,754 82,011 25,811 945,034 64.944 22.946 1,183,576 1.032,924 There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more. R•munoratlon of key management personnel 2025 2024 Aggregate compensation 97,259 94.317 Increases to salary are initially considered by th8 trustees on the Finance Committee and then sent to the Board of Trustees for approval. 12 Taxatlon 2025 2024 Corporation tax payable 1,069 1.069 -27-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 13 Tangible fixed assets- Group & Charity Café •qulpment General IT •quiw)ent equlpn•nt Total Cost At 1 April 2024 Addib"ons 2.346 65,3 4.011 112.374 4.563 552 At 31 March 2025 2,346 45.017 69,574 116,937 Depreciation and impairn)ent At 1 April 2024 Depreciation charged in the year 705 235 44,362 213 52.557 4,844 97.824 5.292 At 31 March 2025 940 44,575 57,401 102.916 Carrying amount At 31 March 2025 1,406 442 12.173 14.021 At 31 March 2024 1,641 103 13.008 14,750 -28-
NorriNGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 14 Debtors Group 2025 Group 2024 Charlty 2025 Charity 2024 Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 210,724 33,891 2,365 100 35.833 173.121 199.972 28.787 35.321 29.252 13.040 172.560 248.922 207,112 264.080 214,852 15 Croditors: amounts falling due withln one year Group 2025 Group 2024 Charity 2025 Charlty 2024 Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals and deferred income 30.791 8.679 2,300 1.069 404.124 458.974 30.676 5,806 402.204 442,400 437.215 468,722 432.880 448,206 Accruals and deferred inwme includes £346,600 (2024- £406.248) in relation to deferred Income. This relates to grants received that span the year end. 16 Retirement bonefit scheme8 Defined contribution schemes The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all quallfylng employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The charge to profit or loss in Spect of defined contribution schemes was £25,811 (2024- £22.946). 17 Unrestricted funds The unrestricted funds of the charity comprfse the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not Subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These indude deslgna funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the tnjstees for specfflc purposes. Balance at 1 Incoming Ro8ourc08 Transf•rs Balance at 31 Aprll 2024 resources expended March 2025 Advi Team Wages & Salaries General Fund 20,000 56.049 20,000 250,016 287.994 428,360 (522.386) 287,994 428,360 {522,386) 76.049 270,016 Previous year. Balance at 1 Incoming Resources April 2023 resources expendod Transfers Balance at 31 March 2024 General Fund 206.916 398,248 (429.485) 112,315 287,994 206,916 398,248 (429,485) 112,315 287,994 -29-
NOTTINGHAM AND NorriNGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 Rostrlctsd funds The Income funds of the charity include restrlcted funds comprlsing the following unexpended balances of donatlons and grants held on trust for speciflc purposes: Movement in funds Balance at 1 Incomlng Resourcès April 2024 resources oxpended Transfers Balance al 31 March 2025 Refused Asylum seeker Unlted Klngdom Resettlement Scheme Voluntser cordInatOr Fund Youth Project ESOL General Advice Services Pamoja Women's Project Refugee Resettlement Schem8 Client Partiapation SAT One Stop Shop Explore, Adapt, Renew Into the Mainstream Café Narjis Grassroots project 95.911 (99,452) (43,920) (32,933) (26,229) (12.698) (77.471) (8,296) (413,081) {34,207) (106,130) (36,236) (62,877) (44,542) (14,284) 3,541 69.273 3,048 4.074 25.353 709 2,517 30.594 24.672 14,000 78,078 3.120 460,025 35.476 127.263 35,311 74.000 49,213 10,258 (1.302) 607 4,912 146.944) 83 1.352 {21.133) <4.440) (11,123) (3,541) 3.981 5.365 936 45 2,066 83,088 1,037.921 (1,012,356) (78,049) 32,604
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 Restrlctod funds {continued) Prior year: Movement In funds Balance at 1 Incoming Resources April 2023 resources expended Transfers Balance at 31 March 2024 Communities of Identity Fund United Kingdom Resettlement Scheme Volunteer Co-ordinator Fund Youth Project ESOL Specialist Advlce Team Pamoja Women's Project Refugee Resett18ment Scheme Client Participation Children and familles Refused Asylum seeker Explore, AdapL Renew Into the Mainstream Cafe Naryis General AdviGe seICe8 Grassr<Jots project 9.170 (7,545) (1,625) (24,175) 93,448 1,611 1.109 69.273 34,670 40,104 13,278 68,998 4.350 408.220 27,922 17.346 103,387 54.516 37.939 39,257 81,997 13.742 {33,233) (37.139) (12,681) (67,533) (4,345) {351,047) (30,572) (28.202) (104,869) {50.709) (50.304) (38,682) (66,493) (13,697) 4,074 <597) (23,331) 21,866 259 264 (57,173) 1,625 2,555 1,482 1,108 8,301 83 1,558 12.342 361 15,595 5.365 23 936 (11,099) 45 157,558 934.896 (897.041) (112.315} 83,088 31
NOTTINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 Restricted funds (continued) Refused Asylum Seeker Advocacy Support tormerly Anti-Destitution Project Thi5 project supports failed asylum seekers wlth no course to public funds with their immediate support. Direct help is given with a Focmdbank. free meals in our Community Café and a monthly cash grant. Funding for ihe 2 s12ff who manage this project comes from The Henry Smith Charity. who give us a grant of £60k per annum for 3 years ending 31 October 2025. Funding for the direct support comes from a mix of small grants. donations & fijndraising events. Resettlement Projects inGluding United Kingdom Resettlement Schemes & Refugoo Resettlement Contract Historically NNRF has provided support including employability training to refugees resettled in Nottinghamshire under the Vulnerable Persons Resetuement Scheme provided primarily to Syrian refijgees. This scheme was replaced by the UK Resettlement Scheme in 2021. In August 2021 a bespoke scheme similar to UKRS was brought into operation for Afghan refugees escaping the Taliban regime. Since October 2022 Nottingham Clty Council have funded these schemes wlth a specific contract to run support services for all resettlement schemes. This contracl has been extended to 30 Seplember 2027. We recelve a fixed amount of income annually for each refugee we support. To reflect the amount of support required the Income is spread over 3-5 years but the Income re¢eiv8d is front loaded in the flrst 2 years when most support is requlred. The contract has been prepared on the understanding that between 45 & 75 refugees will be resettled each year. Volunteer c(OrdInator Project This fund, funded through The National Lottery Raislng Horizons programme. covers the cost of the Volunteer Co-ordinator who oversees the recruitment and supeTvislon of our volunteers. We have over 175 volunteers supporting most of our projects through their invaluable contribution. Youth Projoct This project aims to redu soclal Isolation by running weekly group sessions and regular trips and activities. Chlldren in Need have funded the cost of a part Ilm8 youth worker to run a weekly youth club and ad hoc S(la1 activities but this funding finished in January 2025 wilh the project closing In June 2025. We also receive funding from Swire Charitsble Twsl to finance a youth Caseworker to help our clients navigate a complex asylum system and to ensure Ihey can access services to help them integrate into the UK. English for Speakers of Other Languages { ESOL } This fund is provided by Nottingham City Counal to provide English language training to our clients. ESOL training is provided by our Language Justice team, who also provide training to our intpreterS & volunteers. This project finished on 31 March 2025. General Advlce Servlces Funding for the General Advice team & interpreters is provided by Nottingham City Council through their Asylum Dispersal Fund Supplemented by exira funding from the Resettlemenl contract and from The National Lottery Fund from their Raising Horizons Programme. The General Advice Team is nomially the first point of contact for our clients with support services. Advice is nomally provided in person or remotely on a wide range of tcyics including housing. welfare and social activities. Specialist Advice Toam The Specialist Advice Team is funded through The National Lottery Raising Horizons programme & the Asylum Dispersal Fund administered by NCC. The Specialisl Adwce team provide specialist advice services to clients through complex casework. Guaranteed funds are insufficient to fund the salaries of all current team to 31 March 26. Th8 estimated shortfall is £20k. We made a surplus of £21 k on the previous IAG contract so in order to ensure we continue to provlde this valued servlce at least until 31 March 2026 we propose to use this surplus to fund the shortfall. -32-
NOThINGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 Restricted funds Icontinued) Inlo the Mainslream This fijnd is provided by Nottingham Clty Council to cover the cost of the Project Coordinator and 2 part time Caseworkers. The project focus8s on providing infomatlon. advice and practical assistsnce to help our cllents access mainstream heatth services. From 1 Aprll 2025 this servits will b8 provided by Belong after they successfully won a competitive tender. The 2 caseworkers transferred to Belong under TUPE arrangements Pamoja Women's Project This group for refugee women was initially fund&J by a grant from the Tampon Tax Fund. The aim of the group is to encourage creatlvlty, self<onfidence & friendship by runnlng a weekly skills bas8d session. We have recently secured a grant from Notiingham Clty Council to support the project until 31 March 2026.. Cllent Particlpatlon From 1 February 2023 the Client Participation Role has been funded by The National Lottery Fund through the Raising Horizons programme. The project gives our clients th8 Opportunity to be heard, develop new skills & relationships. We also recelved £1 Ok from the English Sports Council to work in partnership wlth a local boxlng dub to enable young clients to access their facilitles. This initiative finlshed in Dember 2024. Explore. Adapt. Renew This fvndlng is provided by Refugee Action as part of a larger project funded by The National Lottery. The project explores different VIY8 of providing earfy Intervention and advice to avold clients falllng into difficulty in future. This funding enabled us to fund a full-time COrdInatOr and a part-time Caseworker to support asylum seekers housed in local hotels. Thls project finished in January 2025 after Refugee Action failed to secure additional funding from The National Lottery. Café Nariis The Café rewopened In October 2022 employing 2 part tim8 Café hosts funded by a private donation from the Gemlnl Trust. The Café aims to provide a safe & welcoming space for refugees & asylum seekers to meet and soclalise. Grassroots project Our community garden was created from an area of rough ground with the help of grants & donations. The garden is safe place where clients. staff & volunteers can soclallse and take part in various creative & therapeutic activities. All money ralsed is reinvested in the garden. The community garden is maintained by staff & volunteers as well as a part-time garden wotker who Is funded through a number of small grants & donations. LGBTQ projecl We secured a £10k community grant from Nottingham City Council to run aclivltles for our LGBTQ clients. This project finlshed in Marth 2025 because the funding finlshed but with the help of staff & volunteers we have been able to continue to run some activities. Inltial Accommodatlon A grant of £45k was awsrded by Nottlngham City Councll to provide additional support to refvgees & asylum seekers hous&1 in local hotels & other community housing accommodation. Th8 SUPPOrt given Is mainly Casework & general advice. This funding has been extended until December 2026. -33-
NorriNGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 18 R•strl¢tsd funds (conllnued) Projects that flnlshed fundlng in 2023124 Communities of Identlty Fund This fijnd is provlded by Nottlngham City Council and Is administered and allocated to other voluntary and tharitable organisations to deliver actlvltles and services that will help people from refugee and asylum seeker communities to get the right support and advice, provide appropriate skills and confidence-building activities. and enable them lo become active cits"zen5. Funding for this programme finished on 31 March 2024 but Nottingham City Council have provided new funding from an asylum dispersal grant to continue to support our General & Specialist advice leams. Chlldren and famili88 This fund was provided by BBC Children in Need and is used to provide holistic support to asylum seekers and refugee famllies with young8r children. BBC Children In Ne8d agreed 2-year funding for this project in September 2021. The project ffinlshed on 31 December 2023 when we were unable to secure replacement funding so the project was closed & the Project Caseworker was made redundant.
NOThINGHAM AND NOTTINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 19 Analysis of net assets belween funds Fund balances at 31 March 2025 are represented by: Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total Unrostricted Restricted fund$ funds 2024 2024 Total 2024 Group: Tangible assets Current assetsl(liabilities) 14,021 255.995 14,021 286,299 14.750 273.244 14.750 356,332 32.604 83,088 270,016 32.604 302.620 206,916 157,557 364,473 Charity: Tangible assets Current a&setsl(liabilities) 14.021 220,420 14.021 253.024 14.750 242,088 14,750 325,176 32,604 83,088 234.441 32.604 267.045 174,243 157,557 331.800 20 Operatlng lease commltments At the reportlng end date the charity had outstsndlng commitments for future minimum lease payments under nOnnCelIable operating leases. which fall due as follows: 2025 2024 Within one year Between l)NO and five years In over five years 5,993 7,539 3,255 79.858 177.450 260.563 13.532 Lease payments recognised as an expense totalled £3,114 (2024 - £7,733) during the year. 21 Related party Iransactions During the year £nil (2024 - £29,448) was paid out in grants to B81ong Nottingham. The trustee Amdani Juma is an employee of Belong Nottingham. How8ver, he resigned as a trustee in NOVemr 2023.
NorriNGHAM AND NOThINGHAMSHIRE REFUGEE FORUM NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 22 Subsidiarios Detalls of the charlvs subsidlaries at 31 March 2025 are as follows.. Name of undertaking Reglstered Nature of business office Clags of shar•s held % Held Dlrect Voices in Refuge CIC England & The provision of Interpreting Subscrtber (Company number 10517672) Wales servlces 100. The aggregate capital and reserves and the result for the year of subsidlades was as follows.. Name of undertaklng Profrtl{Lo88) Capltal and Roserv88 Volces in Refuge CIC 4.419 35.575 23 Cash generated from operations 2025 2024 (Deficitysurplus for the year (68,462) 6,609 Adjustrnents for: Investment income CogniSed in statement of financial activities Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets Taxation charged (7,659) 5,292 (8.039) 4.311 1,069 Movements in working capital: Increase in debtors (Decreaseylncrease in creditors (41.810) (32,738) (78.777) 77.355 Cash (absorbed byvgenerated from oporallons (145.377) 2.528 -36-