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← Citizens Advice Sunderland

2025-03-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1121988

Company registration number 6347304 (England and Wales)

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Mr C Graham Dr D Reed, Chair Mr P Wallace, Vice Chair Mr R Singh Mr T Johnston Ms J Bell Mrs C Green, Treasurer Mr K Shaw Secretary Mrs D Irving Charity number 1121988 Company number 6347304 Registered office 5a Waterloo Place Sunderland Tyne and Wear United Kingdom SR1 3HT Independent examiner Azets Audit Services Bede House 3 Belmont Business Park Durham DH1 1TW

(Appointed 28 August 2025) (Appointed 24 April 2025)

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 6
Statement of trustees' responsibilities 7
Independent examiner's report 8
Statement of financial activities 9
Balance sheet 10
Statement of cash flows 11
Notes to the financial statements 12 - 22

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees present their report and accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the bureau's governing document, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

The charity exists to promote charitable purposes for public benefit through the advancement of education, protection of health, and relief of poverty, sickness, and distress, particularly for the benefit of Sunderland and surrounding areas.

Activities:

The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty under section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have regard to Charity Commission guidance on public benefit.

The charity’s activities are designed to improve the wellbeing of people in Sunderland, particularly those experiencing disadvantage or hardship.

Achievements and performance

Throughout 2024-25, the organisation successfully met all contractual obligations and achieved all performancerelated targets, delivering advice and support through a range of projects and in partnership with multiple organisations. This approach has ensured that clients can access the full range of services in the most appropriate way to meet their needs. Our website and social media channels are continually updated to provide the latest information on both our own services and other local support, enabling us to fulfil both our short and long-term objectives and improve the lives of the people of Sunderland.

Although the year did not unfold as originally planned, the organisation demonstrated exceptional resilience and commitment to service continuity when, in August, a significant and unexpected fire occurred at our premises following a citywide riot. One of our offices was destroyed, and the other suffered extensive smoke damage. Despite this setback, the team acted swiftly to implement contingency measures, ensuring clients continued to receive uninterrupted support. Sunderland Council provided temporary accommodation until we were able to establish a temporary office next to our existing premises. This response not only minimised operational disruption but also highlighted the strength, adaptability, and dedication of our staff and partners.

We were deeply moved by the overwhelming support and generosity we received in the weeks and months following the riot. Donations, messages of encouragement, and offers of practical assistance from individuals, local groups, and organisations were invaluable in helping us maintain services during a challenging time. We are especially grateful to Sharyn Smiles, whose initiative in setting up a GoFundMe page provided critical resources and made a transformative difference. The compassion and solidarity of our community not only aided our recovery but also strengthened our resolve to continue supporting those in need.

While managing the aftermath of the fire, the organisation has continued to address the mounting pressures of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which has driven many more people into financial hardship and increased demand for our services. A significant part of our work involves supporting clients with referrals to food banks and helping them access charitable grants to cover fuel and other basic and essential costs.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Sunderland remains one of the most deprived areas in the country, with high levels of unemployment, financial insecurity, and social inequality affecting many residents. A significant proportion of the local population faces challenges in accessing essential services, managing household budgets, and maintaining stable housing. These socio-economic pressures increase demand for advice and support services and underline the importance of the charity’s work in helping individuals and families navigate complex financial, housing, and welfare issues.

Our approach has always gone beyond immediate financial relief. We provide holistic advice and support, addressing a wide range of needs – from debt and budgeting to energy efficiency and financial resilience – ensuring each client receives the guidance and assistance necessary to improve their circumstances and build confidence for the future. This comprehensive approach allows us not only to respond to urgent needs but also to empower clients to manage ongoing challenges more effectively.

This year, we supported almost 8,000 clients and helped them address more than 31,000 individual issues. Although these figures remain substantial, they are slightly lower than last year. The primary reason for this reduction has been the significant challenges we have faced in staff recruitment and retention. Every new team member requires comprehensive training before they are fully able to contribute to our key performance indicators and service targets, and this training period inevitably affects overall output.

We have experienced our smallest staffing levels in more than a decade, which has placed considerable pressure on our existing workforce. Despite these challenges, our dedicated staff have worked tirelessly to bridge the KPI gap and maintain service delivery while we continue efforts to fill our vacancies. Their commitment has ensured that clients still receive essential support during this period of transition.

Nevertheless, we have met, and often exceeded our targets and funder expectations. Our contract with Sunderland City Council was recommissioned this year and we were awarded the contract for the East area and a citywide Adviceline telephone service. In addition to the funding we receive from Sunderland City Council, we have a contract with the British Gas Energy trust to support people in fuel poverty with energy advice and support.

To support clients with debt issues, our contract with the Money Advice and Pensions Service, funds our face to face debt service.

We have also secured a new contract with the North East Combined Authority to provide advice at the school gates for 15 schools in Sunderland which runs from December 2024 to September 2025. We are delighted to be able to work with the schools to support their families and carers with advice and support in a setting that is familiar and comfortable to families.

We are continuing to work in partnership with the Groundwork Green Doctors on an Energy Redress Scheme project to support residents with energy and damp and mould issues.

We continue to work with Grace House, as a result of a Councillor Community Chest bid, supporting families with disabled children. We also got a small pot of money from Sunderland Council to provide out of hours advice at Castletown Methodist Church which has extended our reach and advice provision.

It has been another busy and challenging year, and we are fortunate to have an exceptional and cohesive team, all of whom consistently go the extra mile to make a real difference in people’s lives. One of our greatest challenge this year has been in retaining, recruiting and training staff. Working in this sector is demanding, and our extensive training programme takes time to develop advisers with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver outstanding support.

In the coming year, we will focus on making the organisation even more attractive to potential employees in the current competitive employment market.

Despite all of the challenges we have faced this year, we are extremely proud of our achievements. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis continues to place strain on many in our community, making our work more vital than ever. We remain committed to collaborating with our local partners and stakeholders to reach as many people as possible, ensuring that support is available to those who need it most and reinforcing the strength of our community.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Financial review

The organisation continues to be primarily funded through significant grants from the Money Advice and Pensions Service, which support the delivery of specialist advice on debt and wider financial issues. In addition, substantial funding from the British Gas Energy Trust enables us to provide dedicated support around energyrelated concerns, debt management, and income maximisation.

Alongside these core income streams, we hold two major contracts; one with Sunderland City Council for the First Tier Generalist Advice Service and the Advice at the School Gates initiative, funded by the North East Combined Authority. We also benefit from a range of smaller but valuable grants, including support from the Energy Redress Scheme delivered in partnership with Groundwork.

Collectively, these funding arrangements ensure that we are able to support clients holistically. Our services focus not only on resolving immediate financial issues but also on improving long-term stability through income maximisation, energy-saving interventions, budgeting support, advice on debt solutions, and work to strengthen financial resilience and capability. Additional income is derived from one-off project opportunities, donations, and modest bank interest.

The organisation ends the year with a small surplus of £26,737 (2024: £135,731), representing a significantly better position than that forecast at the start of the financial year. This positive outcome is largely attributable to staff vacancies and related salary savings, combined with the donations received through the GoFundMe page set up by Sharyn Smiles. Operating costs were also lower than expected, mainly due to the loss of one of our offices following the riot. Although staffing levels have been affected, and several posts have not yet been replaced, we are now focused on rebuilding capacity and supporting sustainable growth across the organisation.

Investment Policy

The Management Committee regularly reviews available investment products and seeks to invest reserve funds in low risk, short term investment products which provide the best interest rates attainable. To mitigate investment risk, diversification is limited to those institutions with a solid reputation and a strong credit rating.

Reserves Policy

The Trustee Board maintains a policy on holding unrestricted reserves to protect the organisation against shortfalls in projected income, unforeseen costs, or planned expenditure needed to deliver its charitable objectives.

Given the current climate and the uncertainty ahead, the Board aims to retain a minimum of nine months’ running costs in reserve. As of 31 March 2025, unrestricted reserves stand at over twelve months. However, in light of the volatile funding environment and broader economic conditions, the Board considers it essential to remain prudent, agile, and flexible.

Restricted funds held at year end for specific projects are not included within the reserves policy, other than to ensure they are spent in accordance with funders’ requirements.

The trustees have reviewed the major risks facing the organisation and are satisfied that appropriate systems are

in place to mitigate these risks.

Reserves carried forward as at 31 March 2025 are £760,152 Unrestricted (2024: £647,941) and £364,974 Restricted (2024: £450,448), totalling £1,125,126 (2024: £1,098,389).

In light of the current climate and an uncertain future, the Trustee Board seeks to maintain a minimum of nine months’ of £69,565 (2024: £99,376) running costs in reserve. The unrestricted reserves position as at the 31 March 2025 is more than sufficient, but given the uncertainty of the funding landscape and the economic climate, it is important to remain prudent, agile and flexible.

Any restricted balances held for the purpose of specific projects at year end do not form part of the reserves policy other than to spend the money in accordance with funders’ restrictions.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Risk Management

We have a comprehensive risk management system in place to address the major risks identified by the Committee. Many of these risks are common across multiple local Citizens Advice offices, allowing us to manage them effectively through standardised policies and procedures provided by Citizens Advice nationally.

In addition to these shared controls, the Committee conducts periodic reviews of specific risks and systems within our local office. This includes establishing tailored procedures to identify, monitor, and manage risks unique to our operations, ensuring that our approach remains relevant and responsive to our specific needs and challenges.

Plans for 2025-26

In line with our strategic goal of strengthening infrastructure and extending our reach across Sunderland, our annual review identified the following key priorities to guide the organisation’s work and action plans:

  1. Service Delivery: Enhance accessibility and quality, ensuring clients receive responsive, holistic support.

  2. Finance and Funding: Maintain strong financial management, pursue sustainable partnerships, and use available resources effectively to deliver maximum benefit to the community.

  3. Infrastructure: Ensure IT, telephony, and systems are secure, reliable, and fit for purpose; optimise workflows and resources; maintain safe and effective premises; and support the organisation’s capacity to respond to future growth and service demand.

  4. People: Promote equity, diversity and inclusion, attract and retain high-quality staff and volunteers, and support professional development and wellbeing.

  5. Partnerships and Communications: Extend our reach through outreach work, strengthen stakeholder relationships, expand effective partnerships, and ensure we continue to be a trusted community voice.

By focusing on these priorities, Citizens Advice Sunderland is well-positioned to build on its successes, strengthen its infrastructure, and extend its reach across Sunderland, ensuring that more people benefit from our services in the year ahead.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Structure, governance and management

Citizens Advice Sunderland is a member of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux (NACAB) which provides support and a framework of agreed membership standards of advice and casework management. However, the organisation maintains its independence and all policy decisions are taken by the Trustee Board in meeting its charitable objects.

The charity was incorporated on the 20 August 2007 and is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association which have been updated and amended in 2023. Overall responsibility for governance rests with the Trustee Board.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year were:

Mr C Graham Dr D Reed, Chair Mr P Wallace, Vice Chair Mr R Singh Mr T Johnston Mr L Usher (Resigned 19 February 2025) Ms J Bell Mrs C Green, Treasurer (Appointed 28 August 2025) Mr K Shaw (Appointed 24 April 2025)

Management Team

Denise Irving is the Chief Officer and is supported by a small management team of Susan White, Michelle Graham and Peter Wilson, the Finance Officer, who help manage the day to day operations of the organisation.

Contribution of Volunteers

Although small in number, the organisation is supported by volunteers who assist the Trustee Board in administering the charity. Alongside our eight Trustees, we currently benefit from two regular volunteers, as well as additional helpers who can be called upon for one-off events such as bag packs or staffing information stalls.

The Trustees have given due consideration to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission when determining the activities carried out during the year and are satisfied that the information in this report and the accounts meets the public benefit reporting requirements.

Administrative Details

Company registration number: 6347304 Charity registration number: 1121988 Registered Office: 5a Waterloo Place,Sunderland,SR1 3HT Company Secretary: Denise Irving Independent Examiner: Azets Audit Services (Bede House, Belmont Business Park, Durham DH1 1TW) Bankers: HSBC (101 Front Street, Chester le Street, Co Durham, DH3 3BL)

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)(INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

Dr D Reed, Chair Trustee Dated: 19 December 2025

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' RESPONSIBILITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees, who are also the directors of Citizens Advice Sunderland for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (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 bureau and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the bureau and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the bureau and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

TO THE TRUSTEES OF CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Citizens Advice Sunderland (the bureau) for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the bureau (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).

Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the bureau are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of the bureau’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the bureau’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of ICAEW, which is one of the listed bodies.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the financial statements to be reached.

Azets Audit Services

Bede House Belmont Business Park DURHAM DH1 1TW United Kingdom

Dated: 19 December 2025

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
Income from:
Donations and
legacies
2
30,889
-
Charitable activities
3
136,309
639,857
Investments
4
37,767
-
Total income
204,965
639,857
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
5
92,411
725,315
Other finance costs
9
343
16
Total expenditure
92,754
725,331
Net income/(expenditure)
for the year/
Net movement in funds
112,211
(85,474)
Fund balances at 1 April
2024
647,941
450,448
Fund balances at 31
March 2025
760,152
364,974		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
30,889
2,269
-
776,166
121,467
633,909
37,767
25,596
-
844,822
149,332
633,909
817,726
131,929
515,009
359
572
-
818,085
132,501
515,009
26,737
16,831
118,900
1,098,389
631,110
331,548
1,125,126
647,941
450,448		 Total
2024
£
2,269
755,376
25,596
783,241
646,938
572
647,510
135,731
962,658
1,098,389

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006.

The notes on pages 12 to 22 form part of these financial statements.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Fixed assets
Tangible assets
11
Current assets
Debtors
12
Cash at bank and in hand
Creditors: amounts falling due within
one year
13
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Income funds
Restricted funds
14
Unrestricted funds		 2025
£
£
41,321
111,266
1,002,067
1,113,333
(29,528)
1,083,805
1,125,126
364,974
760,152
1,125,126		 2024
£
£
25,511
153,137
955,806
1,108,943
(36,065)
1,072,878
1,098,389
450,448
647,941
1,098,389		 2024
£
£
25,511
153,137
955,806
1,108,943
(36,065)
1,072,878
1,098,389
450,448
647,941
1,098,389
1,098,389
450,448
647,941
1,098,389

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 19 December 2025

Dr D Reed, Chair Trustee

Mrs C Green, Treasurer Trustee

Company registration number 6347304

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
18
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Investment income received
Net cash generated from investing
activities
Net cash used in financing activities
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2025
£
£
43,449
(34,955)
37,767
2,812
-
46,261
955,806
1,002,067		 2024
£
£
64,544
(9,419)
25,596
16,177
-
80,721
875,085
955,806		 2024
£
£
64,544
(9,419)
25,596
16,177
-
80,721
875,085
955,806
80,721
875,085
955,806

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Citizens Advice Sunderland is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 5a Waterloo Place, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HT, United Kingdom.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the bureau's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)". The bureau is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the bureau. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the bureau 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 preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

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 statements.

1.4 Incoming resources

Income is recognised when the bureau is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the bureau has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.5 Resources expended

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expenses against the activity for which expenditure arose.

Direct charitable expenditure includes the direct costs of the activities and depreciation on related assets. Where such costs relate to more than one functional cost category, they have been split on an appropriate basis.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Leasehold improvements Straight line over 5 years Computers 25% on cost

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the bureau reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

1.9 Financial instruments

The bureau has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the bureau's balance sheet when the bureau becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the bureau’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the bureau is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.11 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2 Donations and legacies

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
£
£
Donations and gifts
30,889
2,269
Charitable activities
Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Performance related grants
639,857
633,909
Other income
136,309
121,467
776,166
755,376
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
136,309
121,467
Restricted funds
639,857
633,909
776,166
755,376
Performance related grants
MASDAP
240,775
238,627
First Tier
49,992
149,914
Wise Steps
24,000
-
Energy Redress Scheme
16,663
16,266
British Gas Energy Trust
199,802
159,786
Warm Homes Fund
10,872
35,566
Carbon Monoxide Advisory Project
97,753
33,750		 Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
£
£
Donations and gifts
30,889
2,269
Charitable activities
Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Performance related grants
639,857
633,909
Other income
136,309
121,467
776,166
755,376
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
136,309
121,467
Restricted funds
639,857
633,909
776,166
755,376
Performance related grants
MASDAP
240,775
238,627
First Tier
49,992
149,914
Wise Steps
24,000
-
Energy Redress Scheme
16,663
16,266
British Gas Energy Trust
199,802
159,786
Warm Homes Fund
10,872
35,566
Carbon Monoxide Advisory Project
97,753
33,750		 Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
£
£
Donations and gifts
30,889
2,269
Charitable activities
Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Performance related grants
639,857
633,909
Other income
136,309
121,467
776,166
755,376
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
136,309
121,467
Restricted funds
639,857
633,909
776,166
755,376
Performance related grants
MASDAP
240,775
238,627
First Tier
49,992
149,914
Wise Steps
24,000
-
Energy Redress Scheme
16,663
16,266
British Gas Energy Trust
199,802
159,786
Warm Homes Fund
10,872
35,566
Carbon Monoxide Advisory Project
97,753
33,750
2025
£
639,857
136,309
776,166
136,309
639,857
776,166
240,775
49,992
24,000
16,663
199,802
10,872
97,753		 2024
£
633,909
121,467
755,376
121,467
633,909
755,376
238,627
149,914
-
16,266
159,786
35,566
33,750

3 Charitable activities

4 Investments

**Unrestricted ** Unrestricted
funds funds
2025 2024
£ £
Interest receivable 37,767 25,596

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

5 Charitable activities

Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Staff costs
522,520
453,994
Depreciation and impairment
2,625
2,721
Vehicle hire
-
227
Staff and volunteer expenses
1,491
636
Repairs and renewals
1,315
1,105
Insurance
801
795
Postage, printing and stationery
562
1,094
Materials, subscriptions and licences
2,947
1,705
Telephone
2,017
4,262
Rent
6,406
6,387
Rates
235
256
Light and heat
481
3,767
Cleaning
-
880
Sundry expenses
952
1,710
Other charitable expenditure
2,594
3,511
544,946
483,050
Share of support costs (see note 6)
266,904
155,209
Share of governance costs (see note 6)
5,876
8,679
817,726
646,938
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
92,411
131,929
Restricted funds
725,315
515,009
817,726
646,938
For the year ended 31 March 2024
Unrestricted funds
131,929
Restricted funds
515,009
646,938		 Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Staff costs
522,520
453,994
Depreciation and impairment
2,625
2,721
Vehicle hire
-
227
Staff and volunteer expenses
1,491
636
Repairs and renewals
1,315
1,105
Insurance
801
795
Postage, printing and stationery
562
1,094
Materials, subscriptions and licences
2,947
1,705
Telephone
2,017
4,262
Rent
6,406
6,387
Rates
235
256
Light and heat
481
3,767
Cleaning
-
880
Sundry expenses
952
1,710
Other charitable expenditure
2,594
3,511
544,946
483,050
Share of support costs (see note 6)
266,904
155,209
Share of governance costs (see note 6)
5,876
8,679
817,726
646,938
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
92,411
131,929
Restricted funds
725,315
515,009
817,726
646,938
For the year ended 31 March 2024
Unrestricted funds
131,929
Restricted funds
515,009
646,938		 Provision of
advice
Provision of
advice
2025
2024
£
£
Staff costs
522,520
453,994
Depreciation and impairment
2,625
2,721
Vehicle hire
-
227
Staff and volunteer expenses
1,491
636
Repairs and renewals
1,315
1,105
Insurance
801
795
Postage, printing and stationery
562
1,094
Materials, subscriptions and licences
2,947
1,705
Telephone
2,017
4,262
Rent
6,406
6,387
Rates
235
256
Light and heat
481
3,767
Cleaning
-
880
Sundry expenses
952
1,710
Other charitable expenditure
2,594
3,511
544,946
483,050
Share of support costs (see note 6)
266,904
155,209
Share of governance costs (see note 6)
5,876
8,679
817,726
646,938
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds
92,411
131,929
Restricted funds
725,315
515,009
817,726
646,938
For the year ended 31 March 2024
Unrestricted funds
131,929
Restricted funds
515,009
646,938
2025
£
522,520
2,625
-
1,491
1,315
801
562
2,947
2,017
6,406
235
481
-
952
2,594
544,946
266,904
5,876
817,726
92,411
725,315
817,726
131,929
515,009
646,938		 2024
£
453,994
2,721
227
636
1,105
795
1,094
1,705
4,262
6,387
256
3,767
880
1,710
3,511
483,050
155,209
8,679
646,938
131,929
515,009
646,938

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

6 Support costs

Staff costs
Depreciation
Independent examiners fee
Legal and professional
Staff and volunteer expenses
Repairs and renewals
Insurance
Printing, stationery and postage
Materials, subscriptions and licences
Telephone
Rent
Other support costs
Analysed between
Charitable activities		 Support
costs
Governance
costs
£
£
140,634
-
16,520
-
-
5,760
-
116
3,288
-
16,989
-
4,188
-
4,377
-
5,720
-
22,113
-
20,673
-
32,402
-
266,904
5,876
266,904
5,876		 2025
£
140,634
16,520
5,760
116
3,288
16,989
4,188
4,377
5,720
22,113
20,673
32,402
272,780
272,780		 2024
£
44,079
11,692
5,580
3,099
1,159
6,248
3,417
4,320
3,411
18,324
27,488
35,071
163,888
163,888

7 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the bureau during the year.

8 Employees

The average monthly number employees during the year was 29 :

Management
Administrative
Caseworkers
Cleaner
Total		 2025
Number
4
3
22
-
29		 2024
Number
4
3
14
2
23

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8
Employees
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 (Continued)
2025
2024
£
£
615,243
462,116
35,967
27,165
11,944
8,792
663,154
498,073		 (Continued)
2025
2024
£
£
615,243
462,116
35,967
27,165
11,944
8,792
663,154
498,073
498,073

In addition a great amount of time, the value of which is impossible to reflect in these financial statements, is donated by volunteers.

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more.

9 Other finance costs

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
Financing costs
-
16
Other expenditure
343
-
343
16		 Total Unrestricted
funds
2025
2024
£
£
16
27
343
545
359
572		 Total Unrestricted
funds
2025
2024
£
£
16
27
343
545
359
572
572

10 Taxation

Citizens Advice Sunderland, as a registered charity, is potentially exempt from taxation of income and gains falling within S505 of the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988 and S256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992. No tax charge has arisen in the year.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

11
Tangible fixed assets
Leasehold
improvements
Computers
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2024
82,607
129,705
Additions
9,704
25,251
At 31 March 2025
92,311
154,956
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
66,699
120,102
Depreciation charged in the year
9,822
9,323
At 31 March 2025
76,521
129,425
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
15,790
25,531
At 31 March 2024
15,908
9,603
12
Debtors
2025
Amounts falling due within one year:
£
Trade debtors
7,830
Other debtors
-
Prepayments and accrued income
103,436
111,266
13
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
2025
£
Trade creditors
5,266
Other creditors
10,577
Accruals and deferred income
13,685
29,528		 Total
£
212,312
34,955
247,267
186,801
19,145
205,946
41,321
25,511
2024
£
112,877
215
40,045
153,137
2024
£
11,434
8,246
16,385
36,065

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14 Restricted funds

The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:

Movement in funds Movement in funds Movement in funds Movement in funds
Balance at Incoming Resources Balance at Incoming Resources Balance at
1 April 2023 resources expended 1 April 2024 resources expended 31 March 2025
£ £ £ £ £ £ £
Business
Innnovation
and Skills 9,256 - - 9,256 - - 9,256
Money Advice
Service Debt
Advice
Project 129,600 238,627 (225,983) 142,244 240,775 (317,543) 65,476
Sunderland
City Council 111,299 45,914 (67,408) 89,805 49,992 (99,255) 40,542
Energy
Redress
Scheme 3,725 16,266 (15,343) 4,648 16,663 (16,663) 4,648
British Gas
Energy Trust
(BGET) 70,842 159,786 (170,709) 59,919 199,802 (138,722) 120,999
Warm Homes
Fund - 35,566 (35,566) - 10,872 (10,872) -
EAP- CMAP 6,826 33,750 - 40,576 97,753 (14,276) 124,053
Sunderland
People
Services -
CAST - 104,000 - 104,000 - (104,000) -
Wise Steps - - - - 24,000 (24,000) -
331,548 633,909 (515,009) 450,448 639,857 (725,331) 364,974

Unrestricted Funds

The Trustees seek to maintain minimum Reserves levels equivalent to nine months running costs of the Bureau. The Reserves Policy is outlined in the Trustees' Report on page 1 to 7.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14 Restricted funds

(Continued)

Restricted funds

Money Advice and Debt Advice Project – Money and Pensions Service (MAPS)

An integrated debt advice service funded by the Money and Pensions Service, providing specialist support to residents. Funding is confirmed until March 2026.

Supporting Communities at Risk Programme – British Gas Energy Trust (BGET)

A programme supporting individuals at risk of fuel poverty through energy advice, energy efficiency guidance, and income maximisation by addressing debt and identifying unclaimed welfare benefit entitlement. Funding is confirmed until March 2026.

First Tier Welfare Rights Advice Project – Sunderland City Council (SCC)

A contracted welfare rights and wellbeing service for the East area of Sunderland, delivering financial resilience support and comprehensive information, advice, and guidance on welfare benefits, debt, and housing matters, alongside a citywide telephone advice helpline. Funding is confirmed until May 2028.

Energy Savvy Project – Energy Redress Scheme (ERS)

Sub-contracted through Groundwork’s Green Doctor Project, this service supports Sunderland residents with energy issues, energy efficiency improvements, and addressing damp and mould concerns. Funding is confirmed until February 2027.

Remote Service Delivery Project – Aviva

Funding for one remote telephone/webchat adviser to support the national combined adviceline telephone and digital service. Funding is confirmed until March 2026.

Energy Advice and Carbon Monoxide Advisory Projects (EAP-CMAP) – Citizens Advice

Energy efficiency advice and carbon monoxide awareness projects funded centrally by Citizens Advice. Funding is confirmed until March 2026.

Advice at the School Gates – North East Combined Authority (NECA)

A project delivering income maximisation, welfare benefits advice, and debt support in school settings and trusted community spaces across Sunderland, ensuring all families, including those in work, receive their full entitlement. Funding is confirmed until September 2025.

15 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
2025
2025
£
£
Fund balances at 31
March 2025 are
represented by:
Tangible assets
41,321
-
Current assets/(liabilities)
718,831
364,974
760,152
364,974		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
41,321
25,511
-
1,083,805
622,430
450,448
1,125,126
647,941
450,448		 Total
2024
£
25,511
1,072,878
1,098,389

16 Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2024 - none).

17 Charitable Status

Citizens Advice Sunderland is a Registered Charity (Number 1121988). The Charity is a Company Limited by Guarantee, having no share capital. The liability of each member in the event of winding up is £1.

CITIZENS ADVICE SUNDERLAND

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

18
Cash generated from operations
Surplus for the year
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets
Movements in working capital:
Decrease/(increase) in debtors
(Decrease)/increase in creditors
Cash generated from operations		 2025
£
26,737
(37,767)
19,145
41,871
(6,537)
43,449		 2024
£
135,731
(25,596)
14,414
(67,893)
7,888
64,544