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2024-03-31-accounts

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS Registered charity number: 1127164 Registered in England and Wales: 06680960 ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

CONTENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Page
Legal and administrative information 1
Trustees' annual report 2-21
Independent examiners report 22-23
Statement of financial activities 24
Balance sheet 25
Statement of cashflows 26
Notes to the financial statements 27-34

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Company number: 06680960 (England and Wales)
Date of incorporation: 26 August 2008
Charity number: 1127164
Registered office: Brickhouse Farm Community Centre
Poulton Close
Maldon
Essex
CM9 6NG
Independent examiners: Larking Gowen LLP
8 The Courtyard, Wyncolls Road
Colchester
Essex
CO4 9PE
Bankers: Lloyds Bank Plc
Chelmsford Branch
PO Box 1000
Essex
BX1 1LT
Solicitors: Birkett Long LLP
Essex House, 42 Crouch Street
Colchester
Essex
CO3 3HH

1

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Trustees, who are also Directors for the purposes of company law, have pleasure in presenting their Report and the Financial Statements of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2024. This is also the Directors, Report, as required by s415 of the Companies Act 2006. Legal and administrative information set out on Page I forms part of this Report. The Financial Statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006, the Memorandum and Articles of Association and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practices applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland IFRS1021 leffective l January 20191. Action for Family Carers follows and applies key guidance principles as recommended by the Charity Commission for organisations that provide services for public benefit. The B02rd ensures that all intended activities support the Charity's Aims and agreed Strategic Objectives by using robust reporting standards which support all decision making. The Trustees The Directors of the Charitable Company I'the Charity") are its Trustees for the purposes of charity law. Action for Family Carers has a strong, robust, and effective Board of Trustees made up of individuals with a range of qualific2tions, skills, knowledge, experience, expertise, and current practice that enable a positive contribution to the governance of the Charity. The Board annually reviews the Charity's strategic direction, ensuring the focus remains on Carers, and that it delivers on the agreed priorities with the range and quality of support and services meeting need now and for the future. At each Board meeting, Trustees receive and consider Business Objectives 2nd Progress Reports, C2rer Services Report and Financial Reports, which highlight the performance and progress against the Delivery Plan and agreed Business Priorities. These processes ensure that the Charity is on target and working to the agreed standard and outcomes for Carers. The Trustees continue to consider the key skills required on the Board to ensure the Charity remains relevant and can enhance its contribution to serve the unpaid Carers of Essex. Every Trustee has undergone a rigorous selection process, and Trustees are appointed by the B02rd and formally elected at the Annual General Meeting. All Trustees undergo formal training and induction in relation to trusteeship in general and of the Charity's activities with a thorough induction as well as learning development, formal training, and support opportunities to enable them to carry out their role. Trustees continued to use various online training resources and technology to update their knowledge and skills as necessary or desirable.

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Board is mindful at all times of its governance role and the duties and responsibilities of Trustees. In 2023/2024, it has prioritised impact and outcome measurement, data collection, analysis and reporting to improve its performance, identify gaps and address needs. The Charity continues to strengthen its commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion h2ving identified 'accessibility' as one of its objectives, with 2 continued focus on improving its communication via the website and other social media platforms. The Board recognises the value of diversity and the importance of being representative of the communities that the Charity serves, providing services and supporting unpaid Carers across Essex. The Board of Trustees meets 5 times per year and operates a Remuneration Committee to oversee the Chief Executive Off icer's remuneration. The Trustees have agreed to hold some meetings face-to-face particularly where this allows for visits to services and/or to build strong relationships. Some meetings will however continue to take place remotely as part of the Charity's contribution and support for the Green Agenda and its commitment to reducing the carbon footprint i.e. eff iciency savings of time and fuel, and in order to be as inclusive as possible so that those working, with dependants and/or who are less able to travel can attend and play a full part in the work of the Board. Trustees also chair and actively participate in a variety of Working Groups and Task Groups. In 2023/2024 the Board continued to operate its two Sub-Groups focused on strategy and driving forward key priorities: f irstly, Business Continuity and Development and secondly Services, People and Quality. The Board of Trustees delegates authority for the day-to-day operation of the Charity to the Chief Executive Off icer. The Board has agreed a Scheme of Delegation which sets out the decision-making responsibility of the Board and that of the Chief Executive Off icer. The Board annually reviews and approves the Scheme of Delegation including those actions in relation to the Chief Executive Off icer.

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Trustees who served the Charity during the period were as follows: Chair of Trustees Rebecca Loader luntil Ilth October 2023) Tony Dixon Interim (from Ilth October 20231 Wice Chair of Trustees Tony Dixon (until Ilth October 2023) Colin Bennett Interim (from 7th March 2024 Treasurer Pauline Haggerty Company Secretary Denise Fielding Other Trustees Sue Bailey Colin Bennett Duncan Lumley Paul Osman Gail Partridge elected Ilth October 2023 and stood down 9th January 2024 Brian Potter stood down Ilth October 2023 Julie Price stood down 9th January 2024 Chief Executive Officer James Clarke

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Senior Executive Remuneration A Remuneration Committee of Trustees makes recommendations on the Chief Executive Off icer's pay. These are based on Appraisal and Performance Review in the context of the Strategic Objectives and Business Priorities, meeting financial and achievement targets and objectives as set out in the Annual Delivery Plan, demonstrating leadership and management, maintaining differentials and the successful leadership, management, and delivery of the Charity's programmes. Objects of the Charity The Charity's Objects are to promote the relief of persons who are ill, disabled, incapacitated or elderly by the provision of information, education, support, respite care, recreation, and advocacy for their Carers. Our Mi55ion Action for Family Carers makes a positive difference to the lives of Carers including Young Carers. Our Vision Action for Family Carers will be recognised as a Centre of Excellence which campaigns for and achieves positive outcomes for Carers. Our Values Carer-centred We will engage with Carers at every opportunity, listening to their feedback and input so that our actions and decision-making focus on the service, support, and benefits for unpaid Carers. Integrity We will apply this personally, professionally and in all aspects of the Charity and its business operations. Quality - We will aim for excellence and do the best that we can do, in all that we do, at all times. Our Strategic Goals By March 2026 we will..

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Deliver an annual increase in the positive impact felt by the Carers supported Support more than 3,500 Unpaid Carers in Essex per year Increase the focus on Young Carers

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 INTRODUCTION Making a Positive Impact for Carers Tn Essex For 2023/2024 the Trustees and the Chief Executive Officer with the Senior Management Team continued to focus on face-to-face services whilst making information and advice available to all via digital platforms. We recently introduced new branding to refresh our offer, enhance the Charity's recognition, and to enable better quality images on social media. We have also increased the use of social media to ensure Carers know that we are there for them and available to help. We have maintained existing services in Day Care and Activity Groups. These services provide organised support for the Adult 'C3red-for' enabling some respite for their Carers. Numbers remain lower than before the pandemic, but Action for Family Carers knows the need is still greater than ever and we continue to look for more ways to ensure Carers know about our services and can access them. Key to our strategy is Family-Friendly Care and helping Young Carers from the age of 5 to access our services and receive support in several different ways for as long as they need it. Our enhanced Young Carer service in North-East Essex is recognised as best practice and that approach built upon in Mid and West Essex. We also focus on other family members providing Counselling services and working with GPS to help identify Carers and their needs. These services are very successful, and we have already helped many families. There is a general recognition from commissioners that we are the provider of choice for face-to-face services for Young Carers in Essex. Perhaps the biggest change for 2023/2024 has been that the Charity has successfully secured a contract with Essex County Council to provide a variety of services to Adult Carers in West and North-East Essex. Not only did the Charity have to demonstrate the quality of services requested but also its ability to deliver them in a cost-effective manner and in partnership with other organisations. A key part of realising this opportunity was the decision to strengthen the Senior Management Team with the recruitment and appointment of a new Head of Business Development and Partnerships position. Delivery of the new seNices commenced in April 2024. The Charity continued to hold Trusted Ch2rity Mark at Level 2, which is the highest level available. There are very few organisations that have achieved this award at that level. As a Network Partner of Carers Trust, we are currently working towards the Carers Trust Excellence for Carers award as part of our efforts to provide assurance of the high quality and consistency of our services and to allow the Charity to demonstrate its strength, value, breadth and depth, both internally and externally in the sector. The Charity has continued to welcome and retain volunteers across 311 services. We value each volunteer and benefit greatly from their time and support as well as life

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 skills. Volunteers enable the Charity to continue to grow and develop countywide volunteer-led services such as Counselling for Adult C2rers and Bef riending. The economic environment continues to place challenges on commissioners and charities. Action for Family Carers has responded to them extremely well, maintaining existing services such as the Day Care Centre in Maldon, expanding its face-to-face Young Carer services across Essex and launching new Adult Carer services in North- East and West Essex. We continue to believe that face-to-face intervention with Carers is the best way forward. Finance is always a challenge, but the Trustees have invested more resource to ensure we are able to respond and apply for funding as well as to manage projects effectively and mobilise resources. Action for Family Carers remains committed to making a difference and providing much needed support for Carers of all ages and their families.

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS Adult Carers 655 Adults accessed support from Action for Family Carers during the year across 311 projects and services vvith over 9,000 individual interactions taking place. Carer and Family Response We continued to develop and deliver our Carer and Family Response project working c105ely with families across Chelmsford to identify issues and concerns to secure solutions taking a whole family approach. The service expanded in August 2023 with the appointment of an additional Family Support Worker. Over the year the team worked closely with 212 Carers and their families, almost 3 times as many as the target agreed by the funder. They provided intensive and, in some cases, long term support with complex issues and concerns ranging from housing, referrals for other support including Carer's Assessment5 and counselling, welfare benefit, attendance allowance and blue badge applications, as well as emotional support. The team also trained as Tech Prescribers and ordered equipment including falls pendants, bed sensors, tracker watches, pill dispensers and door sensors. According to a recent feedback form, of those who completed the evaluation, 100% were satisfied with the support they received, felt better able to continue caring, felt more confident and felt less stressed and anxious. The following quotes from Carers that we worked with demonstrate the effectiveness of this project- "I felt supported and less isolated. Knowing there is somebody to talk to who understands what you're going through and is there to encourage you is invaluable.. "That someone has listened and actioned. Someone to help navigate a difficult social care and NHS system.. 'More confidence to see the problem through and not to give up." Carer-Friendly GP Project The aim of the project is to support GP surgeries to more effectively identify and respond to the needs of those with caring responsibilities; this is key to reducing health inequalities associated with having a caring role. This is supported by a framework outlined in the NHS England document-supporting Carers in General Practice.. A Framework of Quality Markers, 2019.

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 During this reporting period, the identif ication and registration of Carers has been a priority. Whilst the engagement with GP practices has continued, there has been a focus to raise awareness of Carer identification and registration with the wider health community namely GP Trainees, Community Nurses, School Nurses and Social Prescribers as well as Social Care and Education. A Carer Identification Protocol has been developed, ratified and circulated to GP surgeries in Basildon and Brentwood as well as Mid Essex to provide a consistent approach to the registration of Carers., this will ensure Carers receive information IA Guide for Carers), signposting for specialist support, contingency planning and health assessments. Carer registration data for the two areas is as follows.. Basildon and Brentwood: GP Carer registration has increased from 6411 to 6990, which represents an increase of 9% in the reporting period. Mid Essex: GP Carer registration has increased from 8572 to 11.308 which represents an increase of 32% in the reporting period. Counselling We provide free, countywide, dedicated counselling provision for Adult Carers funded by Essex County Council. A team of trained Volunteer Counsellors working with the Charity's Lead Counsellor, provide up to 6 individual counselling sessions for each Carer either face-to-face, by telephone or virtually. There is significant demand for this provision from Carers who may be experiencing emotional or mental health problems and who feel they would benefit from exploring issues relating to their caring role and identifying strategies to help achieve a better balance in their caring role. Last year we provided 1089 counselling sessions for 222 Carers- a 190/0 increase compared to the previous year and above the required targets. We received a total of 99 completed Warwick Edinburgh Evaluation Questionnaires which indicated Carers felt 3 96Yo improvement in one or more areas. The areas of most improvement included thinking more clearly, dealing with problems well and feeling optimistic. The effectiveness and value of this service can be seen in the following quotes from Carers: "Just can't thank you all for this wonderful service, it has given me a whole new way of life. I feel so much stronger and conf ident.. 'I've stopped doubting myself. I feel valued and understood. I'm carrying less emotional guilt.. "Thank you for listening. The last 6 weeks have been so hard I don't know what I would have done without you." 101 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Befriending Although grant funding for this project from Essex County Council ended on 31 March 2022. Action for Family Carers has continued to provide a Befriending Service to 88 Carers through our Volunteer Befrienders supporting those Carers to reduce their sense of social isolation and loneliness as well as offering a listening ear. The Charity recognises the immense contribution of its team of Volunteer Befrienders, who provide this much-needed regular personal contact for so many vulnerable people across Essex. Respite Care Day Care in Maldon Maldon Day Care Service provides an opportunity for older people to mix socially in a safe environment and engage in stimulating activities with the support of trained staff and volunteers. A varied activity programme is organised for a wide range of interests including quizzes, singing and gentle exercises, and a cooked lunch is also provided. The Day Care service opens 4 days each week. A total of 49 families were supported with 1749 individual attendances. Day Care also provides a vital respite break for family Carers. Carers explained the difference the service made to them as follows: 'It gives me respite and he is in good hands." "It is such a relief having my loved one happy, she enjoys coming, it's her happy place. She would come every day if you were open." Activity Groups Our Activity Groups in West Essex provide physically and mentally stimulating activities for people with memory problems or dementia. A total of 84 individual service users participated in the Keeping Active and Active M inds sessions across the localities of Epping, Great Dunmow and Harlow. One family member said: "Just to confirm mum moved into the care home last Friday and she's settling in ok. She won't be returning to the group, but I wanted to thank you so much for the kindness you and all your staff and volunteers showed to my mum and me. l always

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 knew she was happy, safe, and content with you and it was such a relief for me. Thank you for everything.. Young Carers Our aim is to ensure Young Carers in Essex are safe, able to participate fully in education and social activities, to enjoy their childhood and to fulfil their potential. During the year, 1023 Young Carers aged under 18 accessed support from Action for Family Carers with 5,748 individual interactions tsking place. Those interactions included attendance at a Young Carer Club, I to l or group sUPPOrt in school, counselling and participation in trips and activities. We provided breaks for over 300 Young Carers via regular club nights in Chelmsford, Clacton, Colchester, Harlow, Harwich, Maldon, Stan5ted and Witham. Whilstthe venue we use in Great Dunmow was out of action we provided acce55 to the Club in Stansted plus additional local activities. We subsequently moved our Great Dunmow venue to the Dourdan Pavilion. We secured funding to relaunch a Young Carer Club provision in Loughton from June 2024. We worked in and with primary and secondary schools across Mid, North and West Essex to ensure that Young Carers are identified 2nd receive appropriate support. Over 700 Young Carers accessed support in school. We use nationally accredited tools to assess needs. We use an outcome measurement tool My Star, which evidences progress against 8 areas such as education and learning, health, conf idence and self-esteem and relationships both at the outset of our intervention and then at the end to identify the impact of our service and support. 87Yo of Young Carers made progress in at least one outcome area, 680A made progress Ir) two and 45% made positive progress in at least three outcome areas. Mid Essex Over 300 Young Carers were supported by Young Carer Leads via contact in primary and secondary schools across Mid Essex. as well 3S through direct contact with their families. In Chelmsford and Maldon, we worked in and with 8 schools supporting 190 children. In the Braintree and Witham area we supported 9 schools and over l(X) Young Carers. There is a very high level of need identified in certain schools, where we work with high numbers of Young Carers and help navigate some complex matters including safeguarding issues to ensure children are safe and receive appropriate support. Our support is delivered both one-to-one and through group work. These include managing anger, developing resilience and positive wellbeing. With older groups we do more in the form of peer support. In all groups we have fun and normally finish with a quick game e.g., Uno or Dobble. 121 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 We attended several local Special Educational Needs and Disability Roadshows for promotion and awareness raising as well as providing families of children with additional needs with information to support Young Carers within the family. Through additional donations and fundraising, we facilitsted a respite trip for Young Carers to go to a cinema, and provided presents at Christmas. Chelmsford Club We launched a new Young Carers Club in June 2023 based at Galleywood Youth Centre. This became popular and very quickly with 36 Young Carers attending by the end of March 2024. Club activities included the egg drop challenge, taste testing, smoothie-making, Halloween fancy dress and a movie night in pyjamas with popcorn and ice-cream. Young Carer trips included Jump Street, Ninja Warriors, and a visit to Chelmsford Museum. Maldon Club 43 Young Carers attended the Maldon Club held at Maldon Activity Centre. Activities included bingo with prizes, making smoothies, decorating biscults, and making fruit kebabs to dip in the chocolate fountain. Rockys Petting Zoo visited the Club and the Young C3rers went to Promenade Park and to the local Fire Station. The Young Carers also had an ice-cream bar with a f ilm night where all came in their pyjamas. Witham club 26 Young Carers attended the Harwich Club held at Parkway Youth Centre. Activities included hiring Monkey Puzzle Indoor Play for a party. trips to Ninja Warrior and Jump Street and a day of activities at Danbury Outdoors. North-East Essex Our enhanced provision foryoung Carer5 living in Colche5ter and Tendring Districts is centrally coordinated and driven with a Young Carer5 Lead role for each district. The Lead develops local knowledge and insight into the local situation and priorities facing Young Carers and their families. The Lead then works with a Young Carer Support and Development Worker to direct resources to where they are most needed and can make the greatest impact. Outcomes are measured using the accredited My Stsr tool. Over the last year, we supported 335 Young Carers across Colchester and Tendring district working in and with schools and colleges as well as Wlth other local ststutory and voluntary sector organisations. This represents a 60% increase compared to the previous year.

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Colchester District The team has supported Young Carers in 10 secondary schools and more than 25 primary schools across Colchester mostly through one-to-one support and on occasion in groups. The Young Carer Lead has established strong relationships with other local organisations to increase the support and opportunities available to the most vulnerable Young Carers and theirfamilies. Tendring District Our work with schools has increased over the last year and in particular with the number of Clacton primary schools. We strengthened our local professional networks helping build a POSltive reputation within the community to reach more Young Carers. Harwich Club 26 Young Carers attended the Harwich Club held at the Vibe Youth Centre. Activities during the year included a variety of games and visits including to the STEAM Fair at Harwich Club in partnership with Tendring Place on Young Carers Action Day with the creation of a mural for Carers Wee. This is now displayed at the Youth Centre in Harwich, which displays the message-'We are Young Carers hear us ROARII Clacton Club 27 Young Carers attended the Clacton Club held at Green Lodge Youth Centre. Activities included cooking. arts and crafts and a Painting Party in which the Young Carers had the opportunity to follow an artist and paint a picture to tske home with them. They were all very proud of their final results which were outstandingl We also held a trip to Amazing Activities in Clacton, a soft play/gymn3stics centre. Colchester Club 66 Young Carers attended the Colchester Club held at St3nway Youth Centre. Activities included a visit f rom Rockys Petting Zoo and a trip to Jump Street. The Young Carers played Bingo, made Sherbert and smoothies as well as decorated cakes and biscuits. They also made fruit kebabs, which they dipped in 3 chocolate fountain and had a movie night with an ice-cream bar. 141 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 West Essex During the year we secured a grant from the National Lottery to provide Young Carer support across West Essex. The programme was launched in the Autumn and a new Young Carer Support and Development Worker has been working in and with local primary and secondary schools to identify and 5UPPOrt local Young Carers. Harlow Club 45 Young Carers attended Harlow Club, based at the Xperience Centre. Activities during the year included raft building at Essex Outdoors, a pantomime, time spent in the adventure playground and having ice cream at the Town Park, and a simple walk near the town centre. The Young Carers also enjoyed a picnic. had a pizza night, played board games and bingo, and lots of tsg and murder wink. "It feels like a busy year in which I hope we have enriched the lives of our Young Carers, if only by bringing them all together to share each other's company., Iyoung Carer Lead) Uttlesford (Stansted and Dunmowl Clubs 10 Young Carers attended the Stansted Club held 3t Stansted Youth Centre. 7 Young Carers attended the Great Dunmow Club although for most of the year that w35 facilitated via offsite activities due to the closure of the Great Dunmow Youth Centre. Activities included cinema trips, bowling and country park walks, arts and crafts e.g. pinata building, jewellery making and themed craft activities as well as cooking e.g. pizza making, baking cakes. cookies and doughnuts. The children also enjoyed their free time where they can just mingle with their f riends and chat, while playing pool or air hockey. Volunteering Our volunteers continue to generously offer their time to the Charity and without their dedication and sUPPOrt we would not be in a position to offer the services we do. Volunteers enable us to provide high quality support to Carers throughout Essex. The majority of our 148 volunteers offer their time on a regular basis to support our seNices. During the year. volunteers provided counselling. assisted at our Day Care Centre in M31don. the Activity groups in West Essex and at our Young Carer Clubs. We continue to have Volunteer Befrienders desplte there being no dedicated funding for that service. A smaller number of our volunteers offer help on an "ad-hoc. basi5 e.g. setting up events, 3dministr3tive tasks in the back office. promotional activities, and providing ref reshments at fundraising events etc. The efforts of former Chair of the Board of Trustees, Rebecca Loader 151 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 were recognised with an award by the Lord Lieutenant and Rebecca continues to volunteer in support of the Charity and local Carers. As a Charity, we are indebted to the support that our fantastic army of volunteers willingly offer and recognize the difference that they make to Carers and their families across Essex is immense. "My husband will tell you how much l enjoy my Wednesday afternoons - I come back from the Harlow Group full of smiles. It's a joy to spend time with these lovely people, listen to their stories 2nd share memories, and I'm privileged to be part of it.. Gilly, Activity GroLAP Volunteer. "I became a volunteer the second I was too old to be a Young Carer. I still wanted to be part of this community and I wanted to help children who are going through the same thing that I did when I was their age. So, I still get to stay with these amazing people and I get to help others as well." Lisa-marie, Young Carer Club Volunteer. 161 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 REVIEW OF FINANCIAL AcfiviTIES Action for Family Carers receives funding from a range of sources including grants and donations plus monies from a range of fundraising activity. The Charity submits applications and bids in line with the strategy agreed by the Board of Trustees to diversify our income and reduce any over-reliance on a large or single funder thus reducing risk and increasing the capacity, capability, and sustainability of the Charity for the benefit of unpaid Carers. All figures below are correct to the nearest £k. Income Income during 2023/2024 was £666k12022/2023 £735kl. The decrease in income was mostly due to lower income from grants compared to the previous year. Expenditure Expenditure during 2023/2024 was £790k 1202212023 £666kl. This increase in expenditure included a planned investment in the Charity's infrastructure to support longer term sustainability for the benef it of Carers. That investment contributed to the creation of a new senior management role to focus on income generation. Further investment was made to enable successfully securing and mobilising for delivery of a new local authority contract. Funds Total funds at the end of the year were £433k12022/2023 £557kl which is £120k lower than the previous year reflecting the planned investment during the year in building the Charity's development capacity. Unrestricted funds decreased by £76k to £342k12022/2023 £418kl. Reserves Policy The Board of Trustees is cognisant of the importance of its reserves to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the Charity for unforeseen circumstances and uncertain events in the future. The Charity's Reserves Policy requires reserves to be maintained at a minimum level of total liabilities plus a minimum of 25% and a maximum of 500/0 of annual budgeted overhead costs. Current unrestricted funds on 31st March 2024 are £342k, which is in line with the ReseNes Policy. 171 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Investment Policy The purpose of The Investment Policy is to ensure that any investments prioritise the safety of the principal investment while maximising the after-tax investment return and maintaining adequate liquidity. The Charity will ensure that at least 50% of unrestricted reserves are immediately available and that all investments are risk assessed and covered by the Financial Conduct Authority. Future Plans The Board of Trustees recognises the need to diversify income and to strengthen the capacity of the Charity to identify and respond to local needs. Investment in the Charity's business development capacity was pivotal to securing a new multi-year contract from Essex County Council to provide Adult Carer support in North-East and West Essex as well as a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund for Young Carer support in West Essex for five years. The Charity continues to evaluate its services to provide the most effective services for unpaid Carers. A review of the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan was undertaken in 2023/2024 by the Board of Trustees with the Chief Executive Officer. The Trustees reaffirmed their commitment to offer face-to-face services wherever possible and practicable, including Day Care in Maldon, Activity Groups and Young Carer Clubs. The Charity remains a robust organisation that demonstrates quality, strong leadership and management and sound financial discipline and is one which also Puts unpaid Carers needs at the centre of everything it does. Fundraising We are grateful for the support of our funders, donors, fundraisers and community partners. Their generosity enabled us to provide vital services and support to family Carers across Essex. It is with their help that we continue to make a significant impact on the lives of unpaid Carers. Most of Action for Family Carers, income came through grants from charitable trusts and foundations and contracts. Action for Family Carers also received donations from individuals, companies, community groups and from supporters who took part in activities to raise money. We recognise the contribution made by many local community groups, sports clubs and schools who raised funds on our behalf including Braintree Golf Club, Chelmer 181 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Ladies Club, Essex Police & Fire Charity, Maldon Rotary Club, Ormiston Academy and WEA Billericay Branch and Care 2 Project to name but a few. Th2nk you also to our f2ntastic supporters who organised a range of fundr2ising activities including a very enjoyable Charity Dance & Music Event. Others raised funds by taking part in some fantastic challenges including a Charity Parachute Jump and the Maldon Mud Race. Action for Family Carers complies with all relevant statutory regulations, including the Charities Act 2011, General Data Protection Regulation and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations. We store donor information securely and responsibly 2nd do not share donor information with any third-party organisations without explicit consent. We are registered with the Fundraising Regulator and our fundraising activities follow both the Code of Fundraising Practice and our own Ethical Funding Statement. We have agreements in place with third parties such as JustGiving and event organisers such as Global Adventure Challenges. We provide supporters with help and information via our website, email or post. Fundraisers are advised that it is their responsibility to keep their event safe and legal and to keep good records of all activity. Action for Family Carers does not employ professional telephone or street funders, or commercial participators to carry out our fundraising. We did not send any direct fundraising appeals during this period. We are committed to protecting vulnerable people and other members of the general public from unreasonable intrusion on a person's privacy, unreasonably persistent fundraising approaches and placing undue pressure on a person to give money. We seek to respect the wishes of donors and fundraisers in terms of how funds raised are spent. We have a clear complaints policy that requires us to thoroughly investigate any complaints, communicate results, record results and review our work, enabling improvements to be made, if required. We have received no complaints about our fundraising activities in 202312024. Our Funders Cambridgeshire Community Foundation Chelmsford City Council Chelmsford Lions Club Carers Trust Colchester Catalyst Charity 191 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Essex Association of Local Councils Masonic Charitable Trust Essex Community Foundation Essex County Council Mulberry Trust National Lottery Community Fund Essex Police Fire and Crime NHS Basildon and Brentwood Garfield Weston Foundation NHS Mid Essex GM Marriage Trust NHS North-East Essex The Grand Charity Rotary Club of Maldon Groundwork UK / Tesco Uttlesford District Council Harlow Recreation Trust William and Gladys Pudney Memorial Fund Jack Petchey Foundation John Laing Charitable Trust Maldon Mud Race William John Cook Witham Town Council Our grateful thanks go to all the above, to Maldon District Council for the use of premises at Brickhouse Farm Community Centre, and to all those groups and individuals that contributed through donations or fundraising events. Risk Review The Board of Trustees has reviewed the major risks to which the Charity is exposed, 2nd systems have been identif led to mitigate those risks. External risks regarding the continuation and continuity of voluntary funding have resulted in a Strategic Plan which continues to promote the diversif ication of f unding and activities. Internal risks are minimised by the implementation of financial control and regulation procedures. These procedures are regu12rly reviewed to ensure that they still meet the needs of the Charity. A Significant Risk Register and Annual Management Plan as part of the Disaster Management and Business Continuity Plan is maintained and regularly reviewed. Areas of potentially signif icant risk identified include Funding, Premises, Safeguarding, Health and Safety, Quality of SeNices/Reputational, HR, IT, Finance and Governance. Mitigation, Actions and Lead Responsibility are identif led for each of these areas and the level of risk then rated as High, Medium, or Low. The key risk is continuity of funding which is being addressed as described in the Future Funding section of this report. 201 Page

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

5 September 202 4

21 | P a g e

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Action For Family Carers ('the Company')

I report to the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2024.

Responsibilities and Basis of Report

As the Trustees of the Company (and its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company 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 Company's accounts carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner's Statement

Since the Company'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 the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (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:

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 accounts to be reached.

22

This report is made solely to the Company's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might state to the Company's Trustees those matters I am required to state to them in an Independent Examiner's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company's Trustees as a body, for my work or for this report.

Signed: Dated: 24 September 2024

Giles Kerkham FCA DChA

Larking Gowen LLP Chartered Accountants 1 Claydon Business Park Great Blakenham Ipswich IP6 0NL

23

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (including income and expenditure account) YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

Notes
Income from:
Donations and legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Income from Investments
Other trading activities
Total income
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
Charitable activities
6
Total expenditure
Net expenditure
Transfer between funds
Funds as at 1 April 2023
Funds as at 31 March 2024		 Unrestricted
funds
£
17,235
160,419
9,794
713		 Restricted
funds
£
13,599
464,042
-
-
477,641
-
525,242
525,242
(47,601)
-
138,915
91,314		 Total
2024
£
30,834
624,461
9,794
713		 Total
2023
£
29,832
702,086
2,282
1,149
188,160
758
264,266		 665,802
758
789,508		 735,349
65
666,146
265,024 790,266 666,211
(76,864)
-
418,379
341,515		 (124,465)
-
557,294
432,829		 69,138
-
488,156
557,294

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derives from continuing activities.

The notes on pages 28-34 form part of these financial statements

24

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Note
Fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets
11
Current assets
Debtors
12
Cash at bank and in hand
13
Current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
14
Net current assets
Creditors: amounts due in more than one year
14
Net assets
Accumulated funds
Unrestricted funds
17
Restricted funds
17
Total Funds		 Total
2024
£
-
52,636
780,897
833,533
400,704
432,829
-
432,829
341,515
91,314
432,829		 Total
2023
£
-
114,224
1,057,236
1,171,460
455,166
716,294
159,000
557,294
418,379
138,915
557,294

The Trustees consider that the company is entitled to exemption from the requirement to have an audit under the provisions of section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 ("the Act") and members have not required the company to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the act. The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to companies subject to the small companies regime within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 5 September 2024 and signed on their behalf, by:

………..

T Dixon P Haggerty

Company Number 06680960

The notes on pages 20-27 form part of these financial statements.

25

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

AS AT 31 MARCH 2024

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities
15
Cash flows from investing activities:
Dividends, interest and rents from investments
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
Net cash provided by / (used in) investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period
Cash and cash equivalents brought forward
Cash and cash equivalents carried forward		 Total
2024
£
(286,132)
9,794
-
9,794
(276,339)
1,057,236
780,897		 Total
2023
£
370,062
2,282
-
2,282
372,344
684,892
1,057,236

26

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1. Accounting policies

1.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement on 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) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

The Charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost of transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

1.2 Going Concern

Managements forecasts show that that the charity has sufficient reserves and cash headroom for the period. Based on this information the Trustees have concluded that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future, being not less than 12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements. They therefore continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Income and expenditure

Donations and similar incoming resources

Income is recognised and included in the accounts when all of the following criteria are met: (a) The Charity has entitlement to the funds;

(b) Any performance conditions attached to the items(s) of income have been met or are fully within the control of the Charity; and

(c) There is sufficient certainty that receipt of the income is considered probable;

(d) The amount can be measured reliably.

Grants and fees receivable

These are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) in the year in which they are receivable. Receipts from Service Level Agreements are recognised as income as the Charity becomes entitled through performance of services. Deferred income is released to income in the period in which it has been applied.

Investment income

Income from investments is included in the SOFA in the year in which it is receivable.

Expenditure

All expenditure is included on an accruals basis and is recognised when there is a legal or constructive obligation to pay for the expenditure, and it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. All costs have been directly attributed to one of the categories of resources expended in the SOFA. The Charity is not registered for VAT and accordingly expenditure is shown gross of irrecoverable VAT.

27

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

1.4 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

These are stated at cost or valuation less depreciation.

Only individual assets costing more than £1,000 are capitalised to the fixed asset register.

Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of valuation of assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following basis:

Computer equipment 25%/33% Straight line Fixtures and fittings 20% Straight line

1.5 Financial Instruments

The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

1.6 Funds

Unrestricted funds comprise those funds which the Trustees are free to use in accordance with the Charitable Objects.

Restricted funds are funds which have been given for particular purposes.

1.7 Operating Lease

Rentals in respect of operating leases, where substantially all the benefits and risks of ownership remain with the lessor, are charged to the Statement Of Financial Activities as incurred.

2. Income

In this period, all of the Charity's income was derived from charitable activities performed within the UK.

3. Taxation

The Charity is exempt from tax on income and gains to the extent that such income and gains are applied to its Charitable Objects. No corporation tax charge arises for the year.

4.
Donations and legacies
General
Respite Services
Adult
Young Carer Services
5.
Income from charitable activities
General
ECCOS
Respite services
Adult Carer Services
Young Carer Services		 Total
2024
£
17,235
440
-
13,159
30,834
Total
2024
£
144,176
18,105
139,744
78,000
244,436
624,461		 Total
2023
£
17,000
600
30
12,203
29,832
Total
2023
£
212,756
-
150,807
74,000
264,523
702,086

28

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

6.
Expenditure on charitable activities
Staff costs
Staff expenses (travelling, DBS's)
Volunteer Expenses
Food, transport and direct costs
Telephone, postage and stationery
Rent of halls
Bookkeeping and accountancy fees
Consultant
Insurance
Advertising
Printing
Cleaning
Payments to partners
Miscellaneous Office Costs
Depreciation
Governance		 Total
2024
£
610,469
14,011
7,256
64,673
18,186
20,253
9,893
11,081
6,232
7,624
3,860
506
-
12,464
-
3,000
789,508		 Total
2023
£
483,839
17,808
6,988
67,197
25,937
21,844
11,466
5,337
5,557
1,097
1,634
571
-
13,871
-
3,000
666,146
789,508 789,508 666,146
Miscellaneous office costs include storage, office refurbishment and general running costs.
Governance costs include Independent Examination fees
7. Expenditure on charitable Total Total
activities (continued) 2024 2023
£ £
General 267,132 190,820
Respite Services 153,725 128,509
Adult Carer Services 78,000 93,472
ECCOS 18,105 -
Young Carer Services 272,546 253,345
789,508 666,146
8. Net income/(expenditure) for the year 2024 2023
£ £
This is stated after charging:
Depreciation - -
Independent Examination Fees 3,000 3,000
3,000 3,000

29

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

9.
Expenditure on charitable
activities (continued)
Staff costs
Gross salaries
Employers NIC
Self Employed Staff
Pensions
Average number of employees
No staff member was paid in excess of £60,000 per annum.
The Average headcount expressed as full-time equivalents was:
Operational staff
Office (including management)
10. Key Management Personnel disclosure		 Total
2024
£
559,995
32,965
-
17,689
610,649
40
2024
no.
15
3
18
Total
2024
£
101,029		 Total
2023
£
447,510
22,464
-
13,865
483,839
39
2023
No.
15
3
18
Total
2023
£
56,633
The key management personnel of Action for Family Carers are the Chief Executive Officer The key management personnel of Action for Family Carers are the Chief Executive Officer The key management personnel of Action for Family Carers are the Chief Executive Officer and the Head of
Carer Services.
**11. ** Tangible fixed assets Computers, Fixtures
equipment & & Total
furniture Fittings
£ £ £
Cost
As at 1 April 2023 57,537 15,406 72,943
Additions - - -
As at 31st March 2024 57,537 15,406 72,943
Depreciation
As at 1 April 2023 57,537 15,406 72,943
Charge for the year - - -
As at 31st March 2024 57,537 15,406 72,943
Net Book Value
As at 31 March 2024 - - -
As at 31st March 2023 - - -

30

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

12. Debtors
Accounts receivable
Accrued income
Prepayments
13. Cash and cash equivalents
Current account
Deposit account
Petty cash
14. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Deferred income
Taxes and social security
Other creditors and accruals
14. Creditors: amount due in more than one year
Deferred income
Deferred income analysis
Balance at 31 March 2023
Amount released to incoming resources
Amount deferred in the year
Balance at 31 March 2024		 2024
£
52,636
-
-
52,636
2024
£
131,225
649,509
164
780,897
2024
£
370,373
13,755
16,575
400,704
2024
£
-
-
Total
2024
£
581,611
(581,611)
370,373
370,373		 2023
£
114,224
-
-
114,224
2023
£
660,907
396,129
200
1,057,236
2023
£
422,611
9,097
23,458
455,166
2023
£
159,000
159,000
Total
2023
£
192,526
(192,526)
581,611
581,611

Deferred income comprises of Grant payments for Essex Community Foundation, Garfield Weston Mulberry Trust, National Lottery, Essex County Council, Fowler smith Jones.

31

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

15. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities

Net movement in funds for the reporting period
(as per the statement of financial activities)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation charges
Dividends, interest and rents from investments
(Increase) / decrease in debtors
Increase / (decrease) in creditors
Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities
Analysis of Net Debt
At 1 April
2023
Cash at bank and
1,057,236
in hand
1,057,236		 Cash
flows
(276,339)
(276,339)		 Total
2024
£
(124,465)
-
(9,794)
61,588
(213,462)
(286,132)
At 31
March 2024
780,897
780,897		 Total
2023
£
69,138
-
(2,282)
(78,056)
381,262
370,062

16. Gift in kind

The premises at Maldon occupied by the Charity are kindly provided free of rent and certain overhead costs. These costs are not included within the numbers of the accounts.

17. Reconciliation of funds
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
General
Adult services
Young carer services
ECCOS
Total funds		 As at
01/04/23
418,379
62,663
-
76,252
-
138,915
557,294		 Incoming
resources
188,160
123,941
78,000
257,595
18,105
477,641
665,802		 Outgoing
Transfer
resources
between funds
(265,024)
-
(156,591)
-
(78,000)
-
(272,546)
-
(18,105)
-
(525,242)
-
(790,266)
-		 As at
31/03/24
341,515
30,012
-
61,302
-
91,314
432,829

32

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 18. Comparativè note of r•coneiliation of funds 2023 Incoming rasourcas Outgoing r•sourc•s Transfer batw•an funds 01104122 31103123 Unrestrlcte(I fun(Is 399,785 192,127 1173,5331 418,379 Restrlcted funds General Adult Carer Services Young Carer Servi￿$ 17,137 19,442 51,791 191,387 74.030 277,806 1145,8621 193,4721 1253,3451 62,663 76,253 88,370 543,223 1492,6781 138,915 Total funds 488,155 735,349 1666,2111 SS7,294 19. Analysis of net assets between funds un￿StrICted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Fixed assets Current assets Cash at bank and in hand 12,494 359,656 130,6351 341,515 40,142 421,241 1370,0691 91,314 52,63fj 780,897 1400,7041 432,829 Comparatlve of analysls of net assets be￿een funds Unrestricted funds R85trict8d funds Total 2023 Fixed assets Current assets Cash at bank and in hand Current liabilities 101,771 348.278 131,6701 12,453 708,958 1582,4961 114,224 1,057,236 1614,1661 418,379 138,915 557.294 20. Operating lease commitments As at 31 st March 2023 the charity had future minimurn lease p8yments under non-cance11able operating leases as follows.. 2024 2023 Within 1 year Operating lease ending 2 to 5 years 284 770 33

ACTION FOR FAMILY CARERS

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024

21. Related party transactions

No Trustees in 2024 (2023: 1) were reimbursed £0 (2023: £29) in respect of travel costs.

No emoluments or any other transactions (2023: no emoluments) were paid to any Trustees during the year. There are no further related party transactions which are required to be disclosed (2023: None)

22. Pension commitments

The Charity operates a defined contributions pension scheme.The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independent administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to fund the amount to £17,689 (2023: £13,865). Contributions of £3,976 (2023: £0) were payable to the fund at the year end.

34