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← Reading Community Learning Centre Ltd

2025-03-31-accounts

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Report of the Trustees and

Unaudited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025

for

Reading Community Learning Centre Ltd

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

READING COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTRE LTD

CONTENTS
1. Charity Information Page 3
2. Structure, Governance and Management
•
Board of Directors
•
Members
•
Risk Management		 Page 4
3. Objectives and Activities
•
Vision
•
Mission
•
Aims		 Page 6
4. RCLC Delivery Programmes
•
Core Programmes
•
Learner statistics
•
Refugee & Asylum Seeker Figures
•
Learner Achievement Progression
•
Enrichment activities		 Page 7
5. Quality Assurance
•
Learner Evaluations
•
Learner Interviews		 Page 12
6. Removing Barriers to Learning
•
Information, advice and guidance (IAG
•
Creche		 Page 15
7. Maintenance of the Centre Page 17
8. Staffing
•
Volunteers		 Page 18
9. Financial Review Page 19
10. Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 Page 24

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

1. CHARITY INFORMATION

Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

The trustees, who are also directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities', effective 1 January 2019.

The Trustees have complied with the duty in section 17(5) of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance.

Reference and administrative details

Registered Company number 06442616 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity number 1123017

Registered office 94 London Street Reading RG1 4SJ

Trustees

Clare Furneaux Jennifer Theron Karen Rowland Katharine Sarah del Tufo - stepped down as Chair 3/3/25 but remains a trustee and is currently Acting Chair Lucy England Raya Mohamed Rosie Chambers Simran Aul Aydan Gasimova - 9/5/2024 resigned Parveen Brar - staff representative to the Board (ex officio) - 29/5/24 resigned Crystal Magotra - 15/4/24 appointed Donna Ma – 11/6/24 appointed as staff rep to the board (ex officio) Komal Komal – 11/7/24 appointed. Resigned 18/9/25 Rajalakshmi Vengatesan – 15/7/24 appointed. Resigned 11/9/25 Sally Rengui Jiang - 16/7/24 appointed Soha Kamaran – 19/9/24 appointed Jennifer Akua Ossei-Brainoo – 4/2/25 appointed. Resigned 24/9/25 Lillian Rose Magero – 6/2/25 appointed Cecilia Garcia – 16/2/25 appointed Fatima Habib – 3/3/25 appointed as Chair and trustee. Resigned 24/10/25 Shaheen Kausar – 19/3/25 appointed

Company Secretary

Aisha Malik (CEO)

Independent Examiner

Holy Brook Associates

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

2. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT

The charity is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 3 December 2007 and registered as a charity on 29 February 2008. It is governed by its Articles of Association.

The directors of the company are also the charity trustees. The Board is responsible for the strategic direction and policies of the charity. Day-to-day management is delegated to the CEO.

New trustees are recruited through an induction process involving meetings with the Chair and CEO, provision of information packs, and observation of Board meetings. The Board meets approximately every two months and from summer 2025 a fundraising subcommittee meets periodically to specifically discuss funding considerations.

The trustees have a risk management process which involves identifying and reviewing the risks faced by the charity. A risk register is maintained and reviewed regularly.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors, who also serve as charity trustees, provides strategic governance and brings a diverse range of skills in finance, HR and management. Meetings are held approximately every two months, with a mix of virtual and in-person sessions in 2024/25. The Board's work is supported by sub-groups focused on HR, learner engagement and fundraising, while operational management is delegated to the CEO.

In 2025, RCLC welcomed Fatima Habib as its new Chair. With over 30 years of cross-sector experience in governance and social justice, she is a passionate advocate for marginalised communities. Sadly, Fatima resigned as Chair and trustee on 24/10/25 but will continue to stay in touch with RCLC as a friend of the charity. The RCLC team and Board of Trustees, would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Fatima Habib for her dedication and leadership during her time as Chair. Though Fatima’s resignation comes with sadness, RCLC would like to extend good health and wellbeing wishes to Fatima.

The organisation also extends its deepest gratitude to founding Chair Katharine Sarah Del Tufo, whose vision, dedication and compassion have been instrumental in shaping the charity's vital role in the Reading community, since its inception in 2007. Sarah stepped down as Chair in Dec 2024, after years of extraordinary service. RCLC would not be what it is today without her unwavering belief in the power of community, dignity, and hope. Sarah Del Tufo is currently the acting Chair until we can recruit a new Chair in 2026.

Members

Reading Community Learning Centre is a membership organisation. There are currently 65 members, mainly longstanding supporters of the work of the Centre. Reading Community Learning Centre's Board is accountable to its members for the operation of the organisation in line with its stated objectives. Members receive a report on the Centre's work and progress at least annually, and they are eligible to vote at general meetings of the organisation.

Risk management

The Directors have a responsibility to identify and review the risks to which the charity is exposed and to ensure that reasonable steps are taken to manage the finances effectively and guard against fraud. A number of measures and protocols have been established which aim to safeguard the finances of the Centre and to provide satisfactory systems in all areas of work which expose the charity to risk. The Board of Directors has continued to take a conservative approach to financial decisions during this year of the charity's life and has aimed to establish an appropriate reserve of funds as advised by the Charity Commission.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Since early March 2020, we have maintained a dedicated COVID-19 risk register and protocols, originally developed in response to the pandemic. While these measures are no longer actively required, we keep them in place as a precaution in case of future outbreaks. We continue to follow general health and safety practices, including the use of hand sanitiser and maintaining a clean environment. A full risk register is maintained, and any safeguarding concerns are reviewed at Board Meetings. All staff are regularly reminded of the operational risks and complete annual Safeguarding and Prevent Training.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

3. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The Centre’s objectives are, for the benefit of the public in the Reading area:

  1. The relief of poverty and the needs of those who are socially or economically disadvantaged, in particular women and children and those from minority ethnic communities. This is done, for example, by:

  2. a. providing general education and training, including language skills and other basic skills, to advance them in life and/or assist them to adapt within a new community; and

  3. b. providing or assisting them in the provision of facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation or other leisure time occupation of individuals who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, financial hardship or social circumstances with the objects of improving their conditions of life and relieving the effects of isolation.

  4. To promote racial and religious harmony and raise awareness about, and to promote good relations between, persons of different racial and religious groups.

  5. To advance the education of the public about issues relating to migrants, those seeking asylum and/or granted refugee status to help promote knowledge, mutual understanding and mutual and good relations between them.

  6. To relieve financial hardship among people living or working in the Reading area by providing information, advice and support.

The Board has referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the aims and objectives and in planning our future activities.

Vision

Marginalised ethnic minority women in Reading achieving their individual hopes and fulfilling their aspirations.

Mission

Reading Community Learning Centre:

Aims

Reading Community Learning Centre aims to enable marginalised ethnic minority women to be skilled, confident active citizens who contribute to society.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

4. RCLC DELIVERY PROGRAMMES

In furtherance of its charitable objectives, during the year the charity supported 595 learners through its core programme of courses and provided 2,344 information, advice and guidance (IAG) sessions.

CORE PROGRAMMES RUN IN 2024/25

In the academic year 2024/25, 595 (an increase of 17% since last year) women completed our core programmes, which, for the first time since the pandemic, were all taught face to face at RCLC.

Autumn 2024

Spring 2025

Summer 2025

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

LEARNER STATISTICS

595 learners enrolled on our core programme of courses at RCLC 2024/25

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Postcode-based indices of deprivation provide only a broad picture and mask the true scale of poverty experienced by ethnic minority communities. Because data is aggregated across entire postcodes, within-area inequalities are averaged out, meaning people in temporary accommodation, hotels, or refuges (where 23% of RCLC learners live) are invisible in the statistics. When combined with the 22% of learners in officially recognised deprived areas, 45% of RCLC learners are from disadvantaged backgrounds, far higher than postcode data alone suggests. National research by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the Equality Trust confirms that postcodelevel measures obscure ethnic disparities, underestimating poverty levels and resulting in the loss of vital funding. This masking effect means resources are misallocated, and the lived realities of ethnic minority communities remain hidden unless deprivation is measured using more granular, demographic-specific data.

Refugee and asylum seeker figures

The statistics below give a breakdown of the number of refugees and asylum seekers who studies on the core programmes at RCLC and which country they came from over the academic year 2024/25.

Refugee country of
origin		 Total number in
2024/25
Afghanistan 30
Ukraine 22
Eritrea 5
Pakistan 4
Albania 2
Burma 1
China 1
IvoryCoast 1
Nigeria 1
Turkey 1
Total 68
Asylum seekers
country of origin		 Total number in
2024/25
Afghanistan 19
Pakistan 9
Sudan 8
Nigeria 4
Bangladesh 4
China 3
India 3
Malaysia 3
Eritrea 2
Iran 2
Kuwait 2
Columbia 1
Congo 1
HongKong 1
Molokai 1
Palestine 1
Syria 1
Ukraine 1
Total 66

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Learner Progression

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

Improving citizen engagement – learners engaging with agencies about issues that affect their lives

Guest speakers are invited to the Centre so that women have the opportunity to engage and access important information in a safe and private environment. The guest speakers are broadly categorised into terms which are themed on women’s health, accessing local services, or are linked to women’s rights and safety. This year we ran the following sessions and trips over the three terms as part of our enrichment activities for learners at the Centre:

Autumn 2024

Spring 2024

Summer 2024

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

5. QUALITY ASSURANCE

Following initial interviews to identify learning needs, the Centre records achievement, recruitment and retention to check that quality learning is taking place, and that it has met the learners' needs. Progression opportunities are discussed termly by tutors and information advice and guidance advisors.

As part of the quality assurance procedures, regular teaching observations are undertaken which monitor methods of delivery, assessment, management of diversity, and equal opportunities, e-learning contributions and learners' comments. All tutors and crèche staff are qualified and supervised. Observations for the academic year 2024/25 were undertaken in February, May and June 2025 by the Manger.

In addition to the observations undertaken by the CEO, New Directions observed a sample teaching session from the ESOL for Everyday Maths class which they funded. Each tutor also completes a course evaluation after every session.

LEARNER FEEDBACK AND OUTCOMES – THE DIFFERENCE OUR WORK MAKES

RCLC Learner Evaluation Forms Feedback

At the end of each course every learner completes a learner evaluation form. The statistics below outline the learners’ feedback from their classes over the academic year 2024/25:

RCLC Learner Interview 2025 summary

RCLC Learner Feedback 2025

These interviews covering the 13 core classes were completed at the end of the summer term by volunteers and staff, interviewing in 5 languages. The interviews represent around 27% of the learners that term, and 9.6% of the learners for the year. The findings mainly reflect those of previous years.

Reasons for coming to UK and feelings about Reading

Some families were economic migrants, who were coming for improved living conditions, for better education for children, and/or to join husbands or families. However, many learners had escaped from extremely dangerous countries such as Afghanistan. Whilst some learners were new to the UK, coming as refugees or asylum seekers or on spouse visas, some learners had lived here for a long time but had not been able to learn English, mainly because of multi-generational family caring responsibilities, or lack of knowledge of the Centre’s existence. Almost all those interviewed liked living in Reading, mentioning how central and close everything was, with some identifying the good schools and transport. Many, especially those granted asylum, mentioned the

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

high cost of housing. A number mentioned that people are kind and helpful and its multicultural nature is valued.

Why Learners Join the Centre

The main reason for attending RCLC is to learn English. Without language, everyday tasks such as shopping, buses, school meetings, or GP visits felt overwhelming. Many women described relying on family for translation, which created dependency and frustration. For others, joining was about regaining confidence, meeting people, or preparing for volunteering or work. Often, family members, support workers, or friends encouraged them to come, highlighting RCLC’s reputation as a trusted community space. Most women arrive at the Centre with very little English language, even if they had worked in their countries of origin, or lived in UK for years, and sought an opportunity to learn. As girls, some of the women had never gone to school in their countries of origin and others had completed Primary School studies. Most faced isolation, stress, boredom and loneliness and others specifically mentioned mental health issues.

Experience at RCLC

Learners consistently describe RCLC as welcoming and safe for women. The atmosphere is friendly, inclusive, and supportive. Tutors, often mentioned by name, are praised for patience and kindness, sometimes even described as “like sisters.” For women facing health issues, resettlement stress, or past trauma, this safe environment is vital. Classes are highly valued. English courses form the backbone, but learners also appreciate the variety: wellbeing, sewing, and IT. These classes don’t just build skills, they also offer relaxation, routine, and the chance to share learning with family. There was universal praise for the quality and style of the teaching, and the friendliness, kindness and supportiveness of other learners, tutors and volunteers. A number of learners really valued the diversity of learners from many countries. The free courses are really important to many learners. The creche is really valued.

Although satisfaction is high, learners suggested a few improvements, especially frequent or longer classes, especially in IT and English.

Most learners first found out about the Centre through a friend who introduced them to the outreach/ support workers, or the administrator, though some were referred by other agencies, like Job Centre Plus or the RVA Social Prescribers. Sometimes family members went online and found out what was available. After visiting the Centre and their needs being assessed, learners had often to wait to get on language courses. The choice of classes was often not what was originally requested as that class (mainly English language or sewing) was full. They were helped to choose an alternative and their names put down for next or the following terms class.

Impact on Learners ’Lives

The difference RCLC makes is striking.

Key Themes Several clear patterns run through the feedback:

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Overall Reflections

RCLC (Reading Community Learning Centre) is valued far beyond its classes. For learners, particularly refugee women, it provides language skills, confidence, friendship, and a safe place to belong. The Centre helps women navigate daily life in the UK, overcome isolation, and build hope for the future. The journey learners describe is powerful. Before RCLC, many felt stuck, isolated at home, unable to communicate, and dependent on others. Through classes, encouragement, and community, they gain the language, confidence, and friendships that make independent life possible. RCLC acts as a bridge: into the local community, into independence, and sometimes toward employment or volunteering. Above all, learners see RCLC as a place of kindness, safety, and opportunity. Their strongest wish is simple: that the Centre continues, expands, and remains accessible to all who need it.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

6. REMOVING BARRIERS TO LEARNING

Information Advice and Guidance (IAG)

To achieve its strategic objective of removing barriers to learning, RCLC provides essential, hands-on support that addresses the complex challenges faced by its learners, many of whom are refugees, asylum seekers, or survivors of trauma who experience isolation and are daunted by navigating a new society. This critical work, intensified by the Cost-of-Living Crisis, goes beyond simple referrals and includes translating, form filling, making appointments, and acting as an advocate to help women access vital services such as benefits, housing, food parcels, and healthcare. Furthermore, RCLC offers direct mental health support through its referral partners, operates a weekly benefits surgery in partnership with CommuniCare, and provides signposting to specialist services, all of which are crucial for breaking down isolation, building confidence, and enabling women and their families to integrate into the community and begin their learning journey.

The largest number of referrals were made to CommuniCare (37%) highlighting the extra support women need in accessing benefits and housing advice due to their language barrier.

A total of 2,344 information, advice and guidance sessions for women were carried out at the Centre over the academic year 2024/25, this is a huge increase of 65% primarily due to the fact that we had an extra outreach worker in addition to an extra outreach volunteer to deliver support to meet an increase in demand. Out of these women 28% of these were not current or previous RCLC learners and had been referred to us from friends, neighbours or other organisations and our partners.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

New learners mostly come to the centre through word of mouth from a friend, relative, previous learner, a relative or through RCLC outreach work. Refugee Support Group has been our largest referrer this year referring 89 women over the academic year 2024/25 to RCLC (this is an increase of 31% from last year). Other referrals to RCLC over the academic year are listed below:

Crèche

The Centre provides a vital crèche service for children aged 4 months to 4 years, many of whom are refugees, asylum seekers, or have had limited social interaction. Staffed by a trained and caring team, the crèche focuses on developing English language skills, social confidence, and school readiness through educational play, while also offering informal parenting support. In the 2024/25 academic year, 83 children benefited from this service.

Parent evaluations of the crèche were overwhelmingly positive. All parents (100%) reported that their children were happy, had learned new things, and were safe in the crèche's care. Furthermore, 100% of parents rated the service as either excellent (56%) or good (44%), and all felt well-informed about their child's development, with 70% rating the communication as excellent and 30% as good.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

7. MAINTENANCE OF THE CENTRE

The Centre is maintained to a high standard to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment. This includes regular updates to IT equipment and security software, alongside essential annual safety checks for fire alarms, electrical systems, emergency lighting, and heating. All staff, volunteers, and learners receive thorough inductions covering health and safety, safeguarding, and emergency procedures at the start of each term.

To accommodate record-high learner numbers, internal space has been reconfigured. The vacated top floor is now used for additional classes and has been repurposed to house staff outreach offices and dedicated space for partner organisations, CommuniCare and Together Outreach, to hold their weekly support surgeries. The accessible ground floor room is now available for hire to New Directions College.

Finally, the trustees would like to extend their sincere gratitude to our landlord for their supportive and collaborative approach. Their agreement to a temporary rent holiday and a reduced rate of £9,000 per quarter for the coming year provides essential financial stability and is deeply appreciated as the charity navigates rising costs and increasing demand for its services.

Egnyte and RCLC

In Summer 2025, the incredible staff of Egnyte gave up their time and energy on one of the hottest days of the year in August, to paint our classrooms on the 1[st] floor. The enthusiastic, strong team of 7 led by Ali (Senior Workplace Experience Manager), rolled up their sleeves and freshened up the centre to make it bright and welcoming. Their enthusiasm and commitment to giving back to the community have truly made a difference and has enabled the charity to use the funding which they would have spent on labour and materials on providing free classes for migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women. RCLC would like to say a big thank you to everyone who participated in this wonderful initiative and to Connect Reading for introducing us to Egnyte.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

8. STAFFING

The charity employs a dedicated team to deliver its charitable objectives. During the year, the staffing structure evolved to enhance operational resilience and strategic development.

A long-serving outreach worker, Shaheen Kausar, retired after 15 years of dedicated service and subsequently rejoined the organisation as both a volunteer and a Trustee, bringing valuable experience to the Board. To meet increasing demand, two new part-time outreach workers were appointed in January 2025, one of which was funded by a National Lottery grant.

The teaching team consists of seven sessional tutors delivering a range of courses, including ESOL, sewing, IT and wellbeing. The crèche is staffed by three workers, ensuring vital childcare support for learners.

A significant development was the approval from the National Lottery to repurpose funding from a Business Development Manager role to a new Centre Manager post. This key appointment, currently underway, is a strategic priority to strengthen leadership, mitigate key person risk and provide essential succession planning. This will allow the CEO to focus on income diversification, partnership development and long-term strategy, thereby improving the charity's financial resilience.

Volunteers

Volunteers are central to the success of our work, providing vital support and enabling us to extend our services. In the 2024/25 academic year, we were supported by 19 volunteers who undertook a variety of roles, including 5 classroom assistants, 3 admin/reception helpers, 5 translators, and 1 outreach volunteer. This dedicated group included both long-standing supporters, like retired teacher Rita Parr who returned after a brief hiatus, and new members such as three University of Reading students who provided invaluable translation and administrative support.

The contribution of our volunteers is deeply appreciated. Their dedication and hard work have a significant impact, greatly enriching our community and directly helping RCLC achieve its goals. Their willingness to contribute their time and skills is invaluable to our organisation.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

9. FINANCIAL REVIEW

We have reported a small surplus of £7,000 for 2024/25; this is an improvement on our 2023/24 deficit, which was £27,000. In 2024/25, we received significant funds from National Lottery (£102,000, which included a 10% variance on our original grant amount) and Reading Borough Council (£71,000 across multiple contracts), while maintaining tight control over our expenditure.

Income for 2024/25 was £244,000, which is significantly higher than the £198,000 raised in 2023/24. We have seen income increase for a number of years now. However, it has been necessary to raise more funds each year as demand for our services has increased significantly in recent years. We are always looking for new ways to raise funds and diversify our income.

Having come to the end of our National Lottery funding, and with our Closing the Gap contracts with Reading Borough Council ending in October 2025, we have been working hard on applying for new sources of funding. While the fundraising environment remains extremely challenging and competitive, we are pleased to report recent successes in securing a grant from Postcode Lottery and winning two new Closing the Gap 2 contracts with Reading Borough Council, which will provide us with valuable regular income from autumn 2025. In addition to this, we expect to soon welcome a new Centre Manager, who will free up our CEO’s time, allowing her to focus on strategic matters, including fundraising. The Treasurer and Fundraising Subcommittee also provide fundraising support.

While we are working hard to bring in income, we endeavour to keep our costs as low as we reasonably can. Despite this, we saw costs increase to £237,000 in 2024/25, compared with £225,000 in 2023/24. Most significantly, staff pay has increased due to pay increases being awarded where appropriate, e.g. in line with National Living Wage levels and to ensure the pay we offer is fair and competitive. The rent for our town centre premises is high, but the learners need to be able to reach the Centre using one bus or walking, as many of them need to pick up their children from school after classes. We continue look for shared, less expensive premises.

Income and expenditure figures are monitored monthly against the annual budget and reviewed by the Board at each meeting. We produce detailed cash flow forecasts every month, as we are aware of the importance of closely monitoring our financial position. When contracts are due for review, every effort is made to ensure services are purchased from the most cost-effective source.

Reading Borough Council – Closing the Gap

From November 2022, we have undertaken two streams of contract work for Reading Borough Council under the Closing the Gap initiative. This has themes of supporting people to get out and stay out of poverty; build resilience, independence and wellbeing; connect people to support; and focus on individual and community strengths. This funding will run until the end of October 2025.

We are pleased to have secured new work under Closing the Gap 2 from November 2025, which will run for at least three years. This money will continue to provide a valuable base, as it makes a substantial contribution towards our costs.

National Lottery

Funding from National Lottery started in December 2022 and was to continue for two years, although we have agreed an extension for some of this funding. The funding contributed towards the costs of the Centre’s rent, utilities and existing staff. In addition to this, the funds originally provided for an additional part time Community Outreach Worker, a part time Business Development Manager and a Strategic Consultant.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Due to challenges experienced in recruiting a suitable Business Development Manager, we agreed with Lottery that we would repurpose the funds for this position and the Strategic Consultant. We will instead use this funding for the new Centre Manager position. We expect these funds to last into 2026.

Other Income

The Centre received other income in the form of room hires and regular donations. We also continue to charge learners a small enrolment fee for each course and for the use of places in the crèche.

Other sources of income received during 2024/25 included:

As in previous years, other funding applications were made but were unsuccessful.

Reserves Policy

The Board has examined the Charity Commission’s requirements for reserves in the light of the main risks to the organisation. Originally, the Board had established a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not committed or invested in tangible assets would be held to cover three months’ running costs, which with the current rent and salary levels now requires an amount of £59,000 to be held. We have been able to reach this level in the General Reserve.

Funds were previously also held in designated reserves. However, this has been reviewed given our current proportion of restricted funds. At 31 March 2024, the majority of funds held were unrestricted, meaning that it felt prudent to hold designated reserves for premises and staffing. At 31 March 2025, however, the majority of our funds held were restricted and many of these are for premises and staffing costs. As a result, we no longer hold designated reserves at 31 March 2025.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Report of the Trustees and

Unaudited Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

for

Reading Community Learning Centre Ltd

Report of the trustees, incorporating a strategic report, approved by order of the Board of Trustees, as the company directors on 11/11/25 and signed on the Board’s behalf by:

Katharine Sarah Del Tufo (Acting Chair of the Board of Trustees)

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report

Report to the trustees/ Reading Community Learning Centre members of

31[st] March 2025 Charity 1123017 no

On accounts for the year 31 ended Set out on pages 1-2

Respective The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The responsibilities of charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under trustees and examiner section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s statement

My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Independent In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my examiner's statement attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect,:

I 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 accounts to be reached .

Date: 12/11/25

Signed:

Name: Rachel Eden Relevant professional FCMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) qualification(s) or body (if any): ~~a~~ Address: Holy Brook Associates, Curious Lounge, 1st Floor, Pinnacle Building, Tudor Road, Reading, England, RG1 1NH Section B Disclosure ~~————>~~[NONE ]

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Unaudited Financial Statements

for the year ended 31 March 2025

for

Reading Community Learning Centre Ltd

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REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Statement of Financial Activities

(Incorporating an Income and Expenditure Account) for the year ended 31 March 2025

Note
INCOME FROM
Charitable activities
2
Grants – Core programme
Courses
Total charitable activities
Donations and legacies
Other income
3
Total income
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
Building costs
Office costs
Programme costs
Staffing
Independent examination
Total expenditure
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS
Total funds brought forward
Movements between restricted
and unrestricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
15,000
4,905
19,905
6,299
11,525
37,729
29,914
5,242
16,911
14,052
504
66,622
(28,893)
96,297
2,545
69,949		 Restricted
Funds
£
206,445
-
206,445
-
-
206,445
45,218
1,239
32,070
91,849
-
170,376
36,069
45,971
(2,545)
79,496		 2025
Total Funds
£
221,445
4,905
226,350
6,299
11,525
244,175
75,132
6,481
48,981
105,901
504
236,999
7,176
142,268
-
149,444		 2024
Total Funds
£
180,236
4,010
184,246
5,652
7,711
197,609
68,427
6,999
54,202
94,976
504
225,107
(27,498)
169,767
-
142,268

25

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Balance Sheet

at 31 March 2025

Note
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible assets
8
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors
9
Cash at bank
Total current assets
CREDITORS
Amounts falling due within one year 10
NET CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT
LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
FUNDS
12
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
TOTAL FUNDS		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
4,292
3,394
72,478
75,873
(10,217)
65,655
69,948
69,948		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
13,233
75,725
88,958
(9,463)
79,495
79,495
79,495		 2025
Total Funds
£
4,292
16,628
148,203
164,831
(19,680)
145,151
149,443
149,443
69,949
79,495
149,444		 2024
Total Funds
£
3,871
11,799
174,419
186,218
(47,823)
138,396
142,267
142,267
96,297
45,971
142,268

26

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Balance Sheet

at 31 March 2025 – continued

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

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

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

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 11/11/25 and were signed on its behalf by:

Katharine Sarah Del Tufo (Acting Chair of the Board of Trustees)

27

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparing the financial statements

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP FRS 102 (second edition) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The charity has taken advantage of the disclosure exemptions applicable to smaller charities.

Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company’s pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

Going concern

The board of trustees considers that the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate because there are no material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern.

Income

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably.

Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings, they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.

Tangible fixed assets

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. In the year of acquisition, depreciation is recorded based on the number of months the asset is in service.

Improvements to property Straight line over 1 year Furniture, fixtures & fittings 25% reducing balance Computer equipment 33% of cost

Taxation

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities.

28

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the board of trustees. Designated funds are unrestricted funds which have been allocated by the Board for particular purposes.

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes.

Hire purchase and leasing commitments

Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

2. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

Activity
Grants
Core programme
Grants
Research projects
Registration fees
Courses		 2025
£
219,429
2,016
4,905
226,350		 2024
£
180,236
-
4,010
184,246

Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:

Reading Borough Council
New Directions (NLDC)
Multiply Project (RBC and NLDC)
WEA branch donation
Garfield Weston
National Lottery
Rotary - Santa Fun Run
Gerald Palmer Eling Trust
Berkshire Community Foundation
Marsh Charitable Trust
Shanly Foundation
Anton Jurgens Charitable Trust
BNRST donation
Cumber Family Trust
Reading University - Community Engagement Fund
RVA - Community Wellness Outreach project
Carewell Research Project		 2025
£
60,376
-
10,977
-
10,000
101,719
-
-
5,000
500
3,000
3,000
1,500
1,500

6,898
14,960
2,016
221,445		 2024
£
40,000
6,000
5,607
5,000
10,000
108,629
2,500
2,500
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
180,236

29

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

3. OTHER INCOME

Room and facilities hire
Gain on disposal of laptops
Befriending work
Interest income		 2025
£
5,834
-
500
5,191
11,525		 2024
£
5,581
30
-
2,100
7,711

4. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)

Net income / (expenditure) is slated after charging / (crediting):

Depreciation – owned assets
Other operating leases
Accounts and independent examination		 2025
£
2,807
792
504
4,103		 2024
£
2,860
759
504
4,123

5. TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

During the year to 31 March 2025, two of the trustees were paid for work they did outside of their trustee duties. None of the trustees were paid for their trustee duties.

Simran Aul received £795 (£795 2023/24) for teaching online seated exercises classes during the year. These costs were funded by Reading Borough Council "Closing the Gap" Outcome 2.

During the year to 31 March 2024, Raya Mohamed was paid £496 for working in the creche during the year. This was to provide cover for regular creche staff. This was funded by Reading Borough Council "Closing the Gap" Outcome 1 and Garfield Weston.

Trustees’ expenses

Simran Aul was reimbursed a total of £171 during the year ended 31 March 2025 (£140 2023/24). These expenses cover her monthly Zoom subscriptions, which are required for her to teach online seated exercise classes. These costs were funded by Reading Borough Council "Closing the Gap" Outcome 2.

30

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

6. STAFF COSTS

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2025
£
147,238
3,180
2,844
153,261		 2024
£
145,688
3,403
3,090
152,181

The average number of employees during the year was as follows:

Crèche
Tutor
Outreach and Support Worker
CEO
Business Development Manager
Administrator		 2025
3
6.5
2
1
0.5
1
14		 2024
3
7
2
1
-
1
14

No member of staff was paid more than £60,000 in the year.

Key management personnel

The charity considers its key management personnel to comprise the trustees and Aisha Malik, the CEO.

7. FUNDING FROM DCLG CONTROLLING MIGRATION

During the year 2020/21, the charity received a grant of £38,340 from DCLG Controlling Migration and also had carried forward grant of £45,252 from 2019/20. Some of this funding was used towards the running costs of the Centre during 2020/21, however it was clear that there would be an underspend of this grant. It was confirmed in August 2020 that the remaining grant could be transferred to unrestricted funds and used towards the running costs of the Centre.

£48,000 of the DCLG underspend was put in a designated reserve titled "DCLG (2022-24)" and this reserve was used towards the Centre's running costs for years 2022/23 and 2023/24. As at 31 March 2024, this reserve was fully spent.

31

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

8. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

COST
At 1 April 2024
Additions
Disposals
At 31 March 2025
DEPRECIATION
At 1 April 2024
Disposals
Charge for year
At 31 March 2025
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024		 Improvements to
property
£
9,224
-
-
9,224
9,224
-
-
9,224
-
-		 Furniture, fixtures
& fittings
£
5,010
638
-
5,648
3,892
-
385
4,277
1,371
1,118		 Computer & other
equipment
£
12,576
2,590
-
15,166
9,823
-
2,422
12,244
2,921
2,753		 Totals
£
26,810
3,228
-
30,038
22,939
-
2,807
25,746
4,292
3,871

9. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR

Trade debtors
Prepayments		 2025
£
5,277
11,350
16,628		 2024
£
456
11,343
11,799

10. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE TO WITHIN ONE YEAR

Social security and other taxes
Other creditors
Deferred Income
Accrued expenses		 2025
£
2,642
12,327
2,700
2,011
19,680		 2024
£
1,699
14,664
29,337
2,123
47,823

32

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

11. LEASING AGREEMENTS

Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows:

Within one year
Between one and five years		 2025
£
39,600
33,000
72,600		 2024
£
39,600
72,600
112,200

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS

Unrestricted funds
General Fund
General Reserve
Designated Reserve (Staffing)
Designated Reserve (Premises)
Restricted funds
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 1
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 2
Reading Borough Council & New Directions -
Muliptly Project
Reading Borough Council - Small Grants
Reading Borough Council - Household Support
Reading Borough Council - Afghan Women's
Funding
National Lottery
Carewell Research Project
Berkshire Community Foundation
Anton Jurgens Charitable Trust
BNRST
Reading University - Community Engagement Fund
RVA - Community Wellness Outreach project
TOTAL FUNDS		 At
01/04/2024
£
2,797
59,000
15,000
19,500
96,297
(1,589)
6,472
(1,017)
-
-
-
39,721
2,384
-
-
-

-
-
45,971
142,268		 Net
movement
in funds
£
(28,893)
-
-
-
(28,893)
1,738
(5,582)
1,017
-
1,955
480
29,370
(2,384)
-
-
487
1,981
7,007
36,069
7,176		 Transfer
between
funds
£
37,045
-
(15,000)
(19,500)
2,545
-
-
-
-
(1,955)
-
(590)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(2,545)
-		 At
31/03/2025
£
10,949
59,000
-
-
69,949
149
890
-
-
-
480
68,501
-
-
-
487
1,981
7,007
79,495
149,444

33

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS – continued

The movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General Fund
Restricted funds
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 1
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 2
Reading Borough Council & New Directions -
Muliptly Project
Reading Borough Council - Small Grants
Reading Borough Council - Household Support
Reading Borough Council - Afghan Women's
Funding
National Lottery
Carewell Research Project
Berkshire Community Foundation
Anton Jurgens Charitable Trust
BNRST
Reading University - Community Engagement Fund
RVA - Community Wellness Outreach project
TOTAL FUNDS		 Incoming
resources
£
37,729
37,729
25,000
15,000
10,977
5,000
6,000
9,376
101,719
2,016
5,000
3,000
1,500

6,898
14,960
206,445
244,175		 Resources
expended
£
(66,622)
(66,622)
(23,262)
(20,582)
(9,960)
(5,000)
(4,045)
(8,896)
(72,349)
(4,400)
(5,000)
(3,000)
(1,013)
(4,917)
(7,953)
(170,376)
(236,999)		 Movement
in funds
£
(28,893)
(28,893)
1,738
(5,582)
1,017
-
1,955
480
29,370
(2,384)
-
-
487
1,981
7,007
36,069
7,176

34

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements

for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS – continued

2023/24 Comparatives for movement in funds

Unrestricted funds
General Fund
General Reserve
Designated Reserve (Staffing)
Designated Reserve (Premises)
Designated Reserve (DCLG 2022-24)
Restricted funds
Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities
(NLDC)
Reading Borough Council - Outreach and
Community Education (Lot 12.1)
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 1
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 2
Reading Borough Council & New Directions -
Muliptly Project
National Lottery
Healthwatch
Carewell Research Project
MHFA courses
WEA branch donation
TOTAL FUNDS		 At
01/04/2023
£
7,193
56,000
15,000
19,500
22,275
119,968

5,197
11,769
(3,018)
5,013
1,481
6,235
10,000
11,850
1,270
-
49,798
169,766		 Net
movement
in funds
£
(3,454)
-
-
-
(21,457)
(24,911)
(5,197)
(10,770)
1,430
1,458
(2,498)
33,486
(10,000)
(9,467)
(1,029)
-
(2,587)
(27,498)		 Transfer
between
funds
£
(942)
3,000
-
-
(817)
1,240
-
(999)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(241)
-
(1,240)
-		 At
31/03/2024
£
2,797
59,000
15,000
19,500
-
96,297
-
-
(1,589)
6,472
(1,017)
39,721
-
2,384
-
-
45,971
142,268

35

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

12. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS – continued

2023/24 comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:

Unrestricted funds
General Fund
Designated Reserve (DCLG 2022-24)
Restricted funds
Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities
(NLDC)
Reading Borough Council - Outreach and
Community Education (Lot 12.1)
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 1
Reading Borough Council - Closing the Gap
Outcome 2
Reading Borough Council & New Directions -
Muliptly Project
National Lottery
Healthwatch
Carewell Research Project
MHFA courses
WEA branch donation
TOTAL FUNDS		 Incoming
resources
£
32,373
-
32,373

6,000
-
25,000
15,000
5,607
108,629
-
-
-
5,000
165,236
197,609		 Resources
expended
£
(35,827)
(21,457)
(57,284)
(11,197)
(10,770)
(23,570)
(13,542)
(8,105)
(75,143)
(10,000)
(9,467)
(1,029)
(5,000)
(167,823)
(225,107)		 Movement
in funds
£
(3,454)
(21,457)
(24,911)
(5,197)
(10,770)
1,430
1,458
(2,498)
33,486
(10,000)
(9,467)
(1,029)
-
(2,587)
(27,498)

There were a number of transfers between funds during the year. All were approved by the trustees and, where appropriate, the funder. More details are given below.

General Reserve

The Board has set aside £59,000 in order to cover three months' working capital requirements and three months' rent payments. This is in line with the Centre's reserving policy.

Designated Reserves

In previous years, funds were held in designated reserves. However, this has been reviewed given the current proportion of restricted funds. At 31 March 2024, the majority of funds held were unrestricted, meaning that it was prudent to hold designated reserves for premises and staffing. At 31 March 2025, however, the majority of funds held were restricted and many of these are for premises and staffing costs. As a result, designated reserves are no longer held as at 31 March 2025.

36

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 06442616 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1123017

Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 – continued

13. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES

During the year ended 31 March 2025, one trustee was paid for work carried out that are outside of her trustee duties. Further details are given in Note 5. There were otherwise no related party transactions for the year ended 31 March 2025.

37