2021-03-31-accounts

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12[th] Annual Report

April 2020 to March 2021

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Welcome from the Chair	page 3	Progress Towards organisational Aims	page 11-21
Mission Statement & Values	page 4	Future Developments	page 22
Governance	page 5	Staff Structure	page 23
Chief Officer’s Report	page 7	Summary Accounts	page 25
Treasurer’s Report & Financial	page 8	Declaration	page 28
Overview

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Welcome from the Chair

Welcome to the 12[th] Annual Report of the Deafness Resource Centre.

Due to COVID-19 having a strong negative impact on all organisations from March 2020, the annual report focuses mainly on our achievements and progress in each of our strategic areas during the financial year. We have provided additional information in each section about how we reacted to COVID-19 as it started to affect our work.

Our current financial position reflects the significant challenges brought about by the pandemic. Without the

support of emergency grants from a number of organisations, but in particular The Steve Morgan Foundation, we would have struggled to continue to provide our essential services.

The pandemic highlighted the challenges that D/deaf People face in communicating on a daily basis and the isolation experienced as a result of their Deafness and hearing loss, this saw a significant increase in our demand for Advocacy and our Family services. I am pleased to see that our Family services are now being delivered across the Greater Merseyside Region, with a focus on building confidence in young people and connecting families with improved communication.

Two other investments this year have been the hall, which is now finished and available for rent to the local community and secondly our client database has been built which will help us to maintain client records and adhere to GDPR requirements.

The focus of our strategic planning this year will be on ensuring the long-term viability of the charity, securing income streams and rebuilding our outreach and face-to-face work.

Finally, I cannot conclude without expressing my thanks to Helen our Chief Officer for her outstanding work, to our excellent team of staff, our Trustees, our clients and our grant providers for their continued support to the Deafness Resource Centre during what has been a most challenging year.

Imelda Sankson

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Mission Statement

‘To create an environment in which D/deaf people, children and young people have access to services and opportunities that facilitate informed choices and decision making, leading to increased independence and respect’

The Management Committee, staff and volunteers are committed to upholding the organisations Core Values:

Respect	for each other, customers and partners
Quality	throughout our services
Accountability	to all stakeholders
Dedication	to makinga real difference
Commitment	to achievingourgoals
Fairness	in the treatment of customers & colleagues

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Governance

Trustees and Board members in post during this year……

Name	Office	Representing	Retired/joined
Imelda Sankson	Trustee/Chair	Independent
Peter Harvey	Trustee	Independent
Bernie Lightfoot	Secretary	Independent
Rev. Hannah Lewis	Co-opted	Church Representative
John Roberts	Trustee	Tinnitus Group
Janet Yates	Treasurer	Independent
Keelan Early	Trustee	Independent	Resigned 18/5/21
Katy Sheridan	Trustee	Independent	Joined 14/10/20
Patricia Callaghan	Trustee	Deaf Community	Joined 14/10/20

Our Honorary President is Rev. Canon Frank Naylor

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Trustee Selection and Development Policy

The charity recruits’ trustees and co-opted members onto the board who can contribute to the achievement of the charity objectives based on their skills, experience and knowledge. We actively seek to achieve an equal representation of D/deaf and hearing members in line with our memorandum and articles of association. Nominations are made in writing using a form designed for the purpose which must be signed by an existing management committee member. The nomination is considered; then agreement reached at the next available committee meeting. If selected, the nominated person receives an induction pack containing the charity’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, a role description and additional duties of officers and the latest annual report and accounts and business plan. Potential trustees are invited to observe at a management meeting prior to agreeing to become a trustee. We actively follow Charity Commission and NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) guidelines on effective trusteeship and planning/training events are held for all management committee members, staff and volunteers.

Understanding and reporting on Public Benefit

The Trustees of the Deafness Resource Centre Limited are fully aware of; and understand the requirement to report on the charity’s activities in relation to Public Benefit, as set out in the Charity Commission’s guidance. The trustees have paid due regard to the guidance when managing the activities of the charity and in reporting on its activities in this annual report.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Chief Officer’s report

This reporting year has been the very difficult for everyone; dealing with a pandemic that has created fear and anxiety and much sadness. As an organisation it made us more resilient and determined to ‘get through it’ and ensure the D/deaf community received the support they needed in such an uncertain time. In practical terms, we had to quickly change the way we worked having closed the centre, staff worked from home requiring laptops and remote access to the company server to continue to provide much needed services. We were fortunate to have access to emergency funds offered by several grant makers aimed at enabling charities to effectively respond to the crisis and sustain vital services. This funding was used to purchase IT equipment, tablets and additional resources to facilitate different ways of working, including producing welfare packs, delivering food and other essential items.

The pandemic had an immediate impact on generated income from room hire, training delivery, Interpreting Services and fundraising, resulting in a significant loss. Some recovery has started to emerge, but it will be sometime before we reach pre-covid income levels which is an ongoing concern. Having benefitted from emergency funds during the initial lockdown the ongoing impact of restrictions will take us into a second year with reduced income.

On a more positive note, we were thrilled to be awarded five years funding from the Lottery Community Fund to expand the children, young people and families’ services across Merseyside. The project should have started in April 2020 but recruitment of the new team was delayed due to the pandemic, it was September before we appointed a Service Manager followed by the rest of the team in January. A further lockdown meant that the new team was immediately home working, which was not an ideal situation, however all staff adjusted quickly and benefitted from the experience of the first lockdown. I am pleased to report that the new project (I CAN) has got off to a very positive start with referrals coming in from across the region.

As an organisation we have maintained links with key partners throughout the pandemic working collaboratively to maintain and develop services with a strategic eye on emerging developments, particularly around the integration of health and social care services with a more neighbourhood focus on addressing needs. We look forward to working with partners to ensure D/deaf people needs are met though emerging services and structures.

I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the outstanding work and commitment of the staff team during this challenging time, their response has been amazing. Thanks to the management committee for their continued support and guidance during this past year.

Helen Fitzgerald

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Treasurers Report

The annual accounts show a positive balance of £27,062 a significant turn around from the deficit position of last year and given the challenges the organisation faced because of the pandemic; it is a good position to be in. However, the reality is that we lost a significant amount of unrestricted income from room hire, interpreting service and training which was covered to some extent with the emergency grants we received from grant makers which eased the financial pressure. Going forward, we have not reached the pre-covid levels of income generation, particularly with room hire with groups not returning and the emergency grants are no longer available, so we anticipate a challenging year financially.

The priority is to achieve pre-covid levels of income where we can and identify other opportunities to bring unrestricted funds into the organisation as they cover the core costs which includes the Chief Officer and Finance Manager salary and running costs of the building. The BBC Children in Need grant will end in March 2022 which will need to be replaced in order to maintain family services in St Helens and Halton.

I would like to acknowledge and thank our supporters who have made donations to the charity, every donation makes a difference. Thanks also to the grant making foundations, particularly the Steve Morgan Foundation, without their support we would be in a very different financial position.

Janet Yates

Treasurer

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Financial Review

Reserves Policy

The Trustees have reviewed the Charity’s need for reserves in line with guidance issued by the Charity Commission. The Trustees agree to the aim of holding at least three months running costs in free reserves in the understanding that the charity’s funding is not certain and to ensure that the charity can run effectively and continue to meet the needs of its beneficiaries.

Accountability

The charity must comply with legislation and regulation in many areas of its work, including:

Data Protection, Staffing Issues; selection, conditions, remuneration, discipline, grievance, Income Tax, National Insurance, Health and Safety; Equality issues; race, gender and disability

Annual Accounts

In accordance with Section 47 of the Charities Act 1993, copies of the Trustee’s Report and a full set of audited Annual Accounts are available from the Deafness Resource Centre’s registered office.

A copy of the full memorandum and articles of association are also available from the registered office.

Auditors and Payroll Services Honorary Solicitors Bank New Bank (from 27/4/21) Livesey Spottiswood Barrow & Cook NatWest Bank Co-operative Bank George Street Victoria Square 17 Ormskirk Street St Helens St Helens St Helens Merseyside Merseyside Merseyside

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Acknowledgement of Funders

Covid related Funders Liverpool City Region – Covid Community Support Fund

Covid Response Grants

Awards for All – Community Fund

The Morrison’s Foundation

Steve Morgan Foundation – Community Challenge Grant

Tesco Community Grants – (Groundwork UK)

Liverpool City Region

Donations

We have received many donations during the past 12 months, and we are extremely grateful to individuals for choosing to donate to the Deafness Resource Centre. Every pound donated is put back into providing services and supporting people who are deaf or have a hearing loss. Thanks also to bereaved families who have made donations on behalf of their loved ones.

This year has been particularly challenging as we have lost a significant amount of income making donations even more important, if you feel able to offer a donation then speak to a member of staff who will be happy to help.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Progress towards our aims & Demonstration of Public Benefit

Strategic Aim number 1.

Actively promote & advocate best practice around the social inclusion of D/deaf people.

D/deaf Advocacy Service

The total number of advocacy cases was 410 compared to 162 last reporting year.
The demand for 1:1 support through the Advocacy Service increased significantly during the pandemic. Covid related support included access to information and services, practical support with shopping for essential items and general welfare support for isolated individuals.
A high number of cases relate to health, benefits and housing issues. Outcomes include:
Full benefit entitlement
Successful benefit appeals

Advocacy - Issue Base

----- Start of picture text -----
Covid Related 67
Social Care 12
Safeguarding 6
Legal 7
Housing 41
Health 117
Financial 31
Family 25
Employment 6
Education 1
Benefits 97
----- End of picture text -----

Access to interpreters in medical situations
Improved services (guidance to providers)
Tenancy issues resolved
Access to Universal Credits (change from one benefit to another – all on line)

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

o Access to information in appropriate formats

The service continues to build positive working relationships with key partners to improve access to services for D/deaf people. This includes local hospital trusts, CCG’s and Department of Work & Pensions.

With support from the DRC St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) translating their complaints process into BSL and posting on their website. The advocate provide support to clients wishing to make a formal complaint.

Training

• Two BSL level 1 courses were delivered, albeit over a longer period due to the lockdown, with 100% pass rate.

Deaf Awareness training was put on hold throughout the
pandemic, a remote training package is being developed to be able to offer a more flexible option for learners.
Merseycare requested Deaf Awareness training for 25 staff
members (to be delivered later this year)

Video & Translation

• St Helens & Knowsley Hospital Trust requested the translation of their PALS information leaflet into BSL video format

Social Media

Social media campaigns took place during Deaf Awareness Week, Sign Language Week and Tinnitus Awareness week

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Strategic Aim Number 2.

Enable greater representation and participation of D/deaf People

St Helens Deaf Club

All support groups stopped meeting face to face throughout the pandemic. To reduce the isolation, staff conducted weekly welfare checks remotely with Deaf people, when needed referrals were made to the advocacy service for more in-depth support. Staff also did weekly shopping for food and other essentials during the lockdown periods. Support was provided to enable families to stay connected using Zoom which helped to reduce anxiety and isolation.

Tinnitus support

As with the Deaf Club, the Tinnitus groups in St Helens and Halton stopped face to face meetings replaced by monthly Zoom meetings. During the first lockdown staff stayed in contact with group members and offered telephone contact to help manage any anxiety. Halton and St Helens groups are now back meeting face to face and a new group is due to start in the Knowsley area.

Family Social & Recreational Activities

Family Activities were delivered through the ICAN project to engage families after a difficult year. 85 children and 35 adults from Merseyside participated.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Covid Support

• Covid emergency grants were used to provide hampers of essential food items for 20 isolated clients to support them over the Christmas period.

The chart below summarises the support provided during the first lockdown

Contact During Lockdown

----- Start of picture text -----
81
67
52
47
43
37
15 13 10 10 8 10 15 7
----- End of picture text -----

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Youth Activities

One of the positive things that has come out of the pandemic has been the success of youth activities delivered remotely. It has enabled us to reach a wider geographical area and engage with young people who may not have been able to travel to group sessions.

• 15 young people participated in a range of online activities including quizzes, arts and crafts, treasure hunt and cooking.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Strategic Aim Number 3.

Provide infrastructure support services for D/deaf people and their families/carers

Environmental Aids – St Helens, Halton & Knowsley

During the first lockdown we ceased all assessments for equipment however we did continue to provide telephone advice and emergency requests for repairs or equipment. As the restrictions eased, we were able to put in place strict procedures and conditions that enabled assessments to be undertaken with minimum risk.
425 assessments, repairs and enquiries were dealt with in this reporting year

----- Start of picture text -----
Halton Equipment Service St Helens Equipment Service
Reviewsrepairs 53
3
Drop In
Drop In/phone 59
10
Centre Assessment
Centre Assessment 2
165
Home Assessment 133 Home Assessment
----- End of picture text -----

Through our partnership with Knowsley Borough Council we completed166 client visits to fit new equipment or repair
existing equipment.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Communication Service

Covid-19 restrictions had an immediate impact on the Communication Service as all face-to-face medical appointments were cancelled. D/deaf people still required access to health services whether through their GP or hospital, to facilitate this the service worked with local Hospital Trusts and GP surgeries to set up remote interpreting facilities, allowing primary and secondary health appointments to take place.

Once restrictions started to ease, bookings increased as health and other providers dealt with cancelled operations and appointments

767 bookings were taken across a broad spectrum of thematic areas.
Ongoing partnership work takes place to ensure D/deaf clients have access to qualified interpreters

Interpreter Bookings by Thematic Area

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Mental Health 7
Employment 3
Health & Social care 14
Secondary Health 540
Primary Care 150
Housing 1
Families/children 3
Education & Training 9
DRC 3
Access to Work 40
----- End of picture text -----

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Children, Young People and Families

The I CAN project is funded by Lottery Community Fund and BBC Children in Need. The Lottery element of the project is funding awarded in April 20 for five years, to expand and develop services for children and families across the Merseyside region.

Covid restrictions delayed the start of the project until September when a new Service Manager was appointed. The remaining posts were filled in January 21 as we went into a further lockdown. How we approached and delivered services had to fit in with lockdown restrictions with little or no opportunities for face-to-face work. Despite the challenges the project has met its first-year targets.

----- Start of picture text -----
Children & Families Services
85
33 35
21
15
11 10 9
4 4
1
----- End of picture text -----

Family Sign sessions were delivered
remotely and face to face when

restrictions allowed – 54 children and adults attended

21 adults and children accessed
1:1 in depth support on issues relating to education, welfare and communication.
13 adults and children were supported with home schooling and
school related issues

•

“ This service really helped me and my son, we got fantastic support doing family sign, nursery visits and one to one support.

This is an amazing service to have and I am truly grateful for their help over the years.”

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Youth Services

Youth activities were delivered via Zoom to engage a wider geographical area.
1:1 mentoring, and general support was provided to 10 young people
A new Peer Mentor project commenced with the recruitment of volunteer young people. They will be fully trained and matched to D/deaf young people from September 21.
Partnerships have been established with a range of groups and organisations including Leonard Cheshire, Mountain Monkeys, National Deaf Children’s Society, and regional Teachers of the Deaf.
Impact assessment tools demonstrate the
- difference made to key social indicators

after a young person received I CAN

services.

ORANGE – 3 months stage

BLUE – start

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

The youth group, with support from Whisper Creatives, produced an animated film reflecting their thoughts on life as a young deaf person. The group was supported to produce drawings that told the story of Ben and the challenges he faced. The animation is available to view on YouTube: https://youtu.be/698RoWy6_H8

Here are a couple of the drawings produced.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Borough Partnerships

Our partnership with Vision Support and Halton Borough Council to deliver sensory services across Halton Borough is continuing to develop. Due to Covid restrictions the Base in Widnes had to close with staff working remotely to deal with telephone enquiries.

Throughout the pandemic staff have provided welfare support and responded to requests for urgent repairs to equipment, they have also held remote self-help groups for people with Tinnitus.

With restrictions gradually lifting the team are keen to get back out into the local area to reach people with sensory loss and provide the support services they need.

Knowsley Deaf Services

We have continued to work closely with Knowsley Council and Bradbury Fields to support D/deaf people living in the Knowsley area. The drop-in sessions at Merseyside Society Deaf People and Prescot Town Hall were stopped and replaced with remote sessions to deal with any issues or concerns.

Future plans include the launch of a Tinnitus Support group and a social group for people with a hearing loss. A further development will be the introduction of a Befriending Project to support more isolated individuals.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Strategic Aim Number 3.

Maintain a focus on organisational development and sustainability

A revised staff structure has been fully implemented giving clearer roles and lines of responsibility across the organisation
Investor in People standard maintained for a further 3 years
A grant from Steve Morgan Foundation enabled the organisation to purchase a client database package which would centralise all client information across all DRC services. The database provides more accurate and detailed information improving monitoring, evaluation and reporting processes which reduces administration time for staff.
The grant also covered the cost of upgrading the DRC website making it more interactive and easier to navigate. Covid-19 emergency grants enabled the DRC to purchase much needed IT resources such as laptops, tablets and software packages. Without this equipment we would have found it challenging for staff to work from home.
The Hall floor replacement project finished in August, slightly delayed due to lockdown. The ongoing restrictions have meant that most of our room hire groups have not been able to return to the centre to see the new facilities. We look forward to welcoming them all back soon.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Future Priorities

Source funding to maintain the children and families work currently funded through BBC Children in Need (ends March 22)
Promote the availability of room hire to bring usage to pre-covid levels and increase generated income
Develop partnership working to broaden service offers and availability (Merseyside wide)
Reintroduce outreach events and activities to promote services across the region

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

----- Start of picture text -----
Staff Team Chief Officer
Helen
Fitzgerald
Advocacy & Service
Finance Manager
Manager
Tanya
Ruth Turner McGibbon
Communication
Service Team LeaderCommunity Family Liaison Worker Family Support Worker Admin Support
Coordinator
Tash Lofthouse
Naomi Webb Joa Lee Rachael Cullen
Evonne Evans
Cleaning Outreach
Operative Worker
Cathleen
Sarah Davidson
Wenham
Equipment
Officer (St
Helens)
Angela Edwards
Equipment
Officer (Halton)
Special Thanks goes to all our volunteers who have supported the staff team
Wendy
Edwards in the delivery of services and activities during the past 12 months.
Admin Support
(Halton)
Lyn Lowe
24
Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282
Registered in England & Wales
----- End of picture text -----

Audited Accounts

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Note £ £ Income Donations and Legacies 3 7,021 - Charitable Activities 4 228,791 160,211 Other Activities 5 5,144 - Investments 6 130 - Total Income 241,086 160,211 Expenditure Raising Funds 7 32,837 - Charitable Activities 8211,841 129,557 Total Expenditure 244,678 129,557 Net Income/(Expenditure) (3,592) 30,654 Reconciliation of Funds Fund balances brought forward at 1 April 2020 329,820 3,538 Fund balances carried forward at 31 March 2021 326,228 34,192	2021 Total £ 7,021 389,002 5,144 130 401,297 32,837 341,398 374,235 27,062 333,358 360,420	2020 Total £ 3,992 399,756 20,788 135 424,671 23,788 430,418 454,206 (29,535) 362,893 333,358

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Notes Fixed Assets Tangible fixed assets 11 Current Assets Debtors 12 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 13 Net Current Assets Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year 14 Net Assets 15 Funds Unrestricted funds Unrestricted funds held in fixed assets Restricted funds 17	2021 £ £ 206,935 17,770 158,953 176,723 (21,081) 155,642 (2,157) 360,420 141,387 184,841 34,192 360,420	2020 £ £ 191,668 39,843 123,619 163,462 (17,761) 145,701 (4,011) 333,358 141,690 188,130 3,538 333,358

The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2021. The members have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2021 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The trustees acknowledge their responsibility for:

(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records which comply with sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006, and
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on 21[st] September 2021 and were signed on its behalf by:-

TRUSTEE: Mrs I Sankson

TRUSTEE: Mr P Harvey

The notes on pages 9 to 18 form part of these accounts.

A full set of accounts can be obtained from the Deafness Resource Centre or by emailing enquiries@deafnessresourcecentre.org

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

Declaration

This Annual Report was adopted by the Management Committee of the Deafness Resource Centre Limited at their meeting held on 21[st] September 2021 and is a true reflection of the work of this organisation over the past year (1[st] April 2020– 31[st] March 2021).

Signed: Imelda Sankson, Chairperson

Signed: Peter Harvey, Trustee

Registered Charity No. 1128148 Company Limited by Guarantee 6807282 Registered in England & Wales

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Company No: 06807282 Charity No: 1128148

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

	PAGE
Annual Report of the Board of Trustees	1 - 5
Independent Examiners’ Report	6
Statement Of Financial Activities	7
Balance Sheet	8
Notes to the Accounts	9 - 18

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

The trustees are pleased to present their report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2021.

Reference and Administrative Details

Charity number: 1128148 Company number: 06807282

Chief Executive: Ms H Fitzgerald

Registered Office

32-40 Dentons Green Lane St Helens Merseyside WA10 2QB

Solicitors

Independent Examiner Solicitors Mr David Hudd Barrow & Cook Solicitors Limited Livesey Spottiswood Victoria Square Chartered Accountants St Helens 17 George Street Merseyside St Helens WA10 1HQ Merseyside WA10 1DB

Directors & Trustees

The directors of the charitable company (the charity) who are also its trustees for the purpose of charity law and throughout this report are collectively referred to as the trustees.

The trustees serving during the year and since the year end were as follows:

Mrs I Sankson – Chair Mrs J Yates - Treasurer Mrs B Lightfoot - Secretary Mr P Harvey Mr J Roberts Mr K Early (resigned after the year end) Mrs P Callaghan (appointed 14 October 2020) Mrs K Sheridan (appointed 15 September 2020)

Co-Opted

Rev H Lewis

In accordance with the constitution, at the Annual General Meeting all of the trustees retire and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Structure, Governance and Management

Governing document

The company is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association.

The company is limited by guarantee and has no share capital. Under the terms of the Memorandum every member of the company undertakes to contribute to the assets of the company, in the event of it being wound up while they are a member, or within one year after they cease to be a member, for payment of debts and liabilities of the company contracted before they cease to be a member, and of the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors amongst themselves such amount as may be required not exceeding £10.

Appointment of trustees

The trustees who have served during the year are set out on page 1. The trustees are elected by members of the company.

Trustee induction and training

The charity recruits trustees and co-opted members onto the board who can contribute to the achievement of the charity objectives based on their skills, experience and knowledge. We actively seek to achieve an equal representation of D/deaf and hearing members in line with our memorandum and articles of association. Nominations are made in writing using a form designed for the purpose which must be signed by an existing management committee member. The nomination is considered; then agreement reached at the next available committee meeting. If selected, the nominated person receives an induction pack containing the charity’s memorandum and articles of association, a role description and additional duties of officers and the latest annual report and accounts and business plan. Potential trustees are invited to observe at a management meeting prior to agreeing to become a trustee.

We actively follow Charity Commission and NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations) guidelines on effective trusteeship and regular planning/training events are held for all management committee members, staff and volunteers.

Organisation

The board of trustees administer the charity. A Chief Executive is appointed by the trustees to manage the day-to-day operations of the charity. To facilitate effective operations, the Chief Executive has delegated authority, within terms of delegation approved by the trustees, for operational matters.

Risk Management

The trustees consider the major strategic, business and operational risks that the charity faces each year when considering budgets and business plans. Systems have been developed to monitor and control these risks to mitigate any impact that they may have in the future.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Objectives and Activities

The objectives for which the Society is established are:-

For the relief of deaf, deafened, hard of hearing, deaf-blind people (beneficiaries) living primarily in the St Helens Borough and other areas of the UK (area of benefit) in such charitable ways as the trustees shall deem appropriate.

Mission

‘To create an environment in which D/deaf people have access to services and opportunities that facilitate informed choices and decision making, leading to increased independence and respect’.

Core Values
Respect	-	for each other, customers and partners
Quality	-	throughout our services
Accountability	-	to all stakeholders
Dedication	-	to making a real difference
Commitment	-	to achieving our goals
Fairness	-	in the treatment of customers & clients

Diversity Statement

The Deafness Resource Centre embraces diversity. We actively pursue fair and equal access in our service delivery, employment and recruitment of staff and through work with external partners.

(A full copy of our Equality & Diversity Policy is available from the Deafness Resource Centre).

Achievements and Performance

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Achievements and Performance (Cont)

Impact and Public Benefit

The trustees of the Deafness Resource Centre are fully aware of and understand the requirement to report on the charity’s activities in relation to Public Benefit, as set out in the Charity Commission’s guidance. The trustees have paid due regard to the guidance when managing the activities of the charity and in reporting on its activities in the following ways:-

To actively promote and advocate best practice around social inclusion of D/deaf people
To enable greater representation of D/deaf people
To provide infrastructure support services for D/deaf people and their families that will promote empowerment, facilitate greater independence and enhance lifestyles
To maintain a focus on organisational development and sustainability

Financial Review

The movement of funds for the year is set out in the Statement of Financial Activities.

The trustees report a surplus of £27,062 (2020 - deficit of £29,535) on its unrestricted and restricted funds.

As part of its ongoing development the charity continues to be supported by local and national partners who provide a significant part of it’s funding.

Investment Powers and Policy

Under the constitution, the charity has the power to invest in any way the trustees wish.

The trustees, having regard to the liquidity requirements of operating the charity and to the reserves policy have operated a policy of keeping available funds in an interest bearing account and seek to achieve a rate of interest which matches or exceeds inflation as measured by the retail prices index.

Reserves Policy

The Trustees have reviewed the Charity’s need for reserves in line with guidance issued by the Charity Commission. The Trustees agree to the aim of holding at least three months’ running costs in free reserves on the understanding that the charity’s funding is not certain and to ensure that the charity can run effectively and continue to meet the needs of its beneficiaries.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Plans for Future Periods

Source funding to maintain the children and families work currently funded through BBC Children in Need (ends March 22);
Promote the availability of room hire to bring usage to pre-covid levels and increase generated income;
Develop partnership working to broaden service offers and availability (Merseyside wide);
Reintroduce outreach events and activities to promote services across the region;

Trustees Responsibility Statement

The trustees (who are also the directors of Deafness Resource Centre Limited for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to:

Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
Observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP;
Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.

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

Independent Examiners

A motion proposing the re-appointment of David Hudd of Livesey Spottiswood as Independent Examiner of the charity will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Approved by order of the board of trustees on and signed on its behalf by:

MRS I SANKSON CHAIR

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Deafness Resource Centre Limited (‘the company’)

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2021.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity’s trustees of the Company (and also 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 your charity’s accounts as 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 your charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a registered member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales 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:

accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act
other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).

I have no concern 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.

Mr David Hudd Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Livesey Spottiswood Ltd 17 George Street St Helens Merseyside WA10 1DB

Date……………………………….

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Note £ £ Income Donations and Legacies 3 7,021 - Charitable Activities 4 228,791 160,211 Other Activities 5 5,144 - Investments 6 130 - Total Income 241,086 160,211 Expenditure Raising Funds 7 32,837 - Charitable Activities 8211,841 129,557 Total Expenditure 244,678 129,557 Net Income/(Expenditure) (3,592) 30,654 Reconciliation of Funds Fund balances brought forward at 1 April 2020 329,820 3,538 Fund balances carried forward at 31 March 2021 326,228 34,192	2021 Total £ 7,021 389,002 5,144 130 401,297 32,837 341,398 374,235 27,062 333,358 360,420	2020 Total £ 3,992 399,756 20,788 135 424,671 23,788 430,418 454,206 (29,535) 362,893 333,358

The notes on pages 9 to 18 form part of these accounts.

Company No.06807282

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2021

Notes Fixed Assets Tangible fixed assets 11 Current Assets Debtors 12 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 13 Net Current Assets Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year 14 Net Assets 15 Funds Unrestricted funds Unrestricted funds held in fixed assets Restricted funds 17	2021 £ £ 206,935 17,770 158,953 176,723 (21,081) 155,642 (2,157) 360,420 141,387 184,841 34,192 360,420	2020 £ £ 191,668 39,843 123,619 163,462 (17,761) 145,701 (4,011) 333,358 141,690 188,130 3,538 333,358

The trustees acknowledge their responsibility for:

(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records which comply with sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006, and
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies.

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

TRUSTEE: Mrs I Sankson

TRUSTEE: Mr P Harvey

The notes on pages 9 to 18 form part of these accounts.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

1 Statutory Information

Deafness Resource Centre Limited is a charitable company, limited by guarantee and has no share capital and is registered in England and Wales. The company’s registered number and registered office address can be found in the Report of the Trustees.

The presentation currency of the financial statements is in the Pound Sterling (£).

2 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) ‘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 on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention.

In common with most other organisations, the charity has been impacted by Covid-19 with the temporary curtailment of certain services. The charity has received various grants which has assisted with cashflow through this period. Whilst the future position with regard to the pandemic remains uncertain, the Trustees remain confident of the ability of the charity to continue as a going concern.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.

Donations, Legacies and Grants

These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when:

the charity becomes entitled to the donation, legacies and grants of similar income and any conditions for receipt are met
the trustees are reasonably certain they will receive it; and
the trustees are reasonably certain that the value can be reliably measured.

Grants Receivable

Grants for immediate expenditure are accounted for when they become receivable. Grants received for specific purposes are treated as restricted funds. Grants restricted to future accounting periods are deferred and recognised in those periods.

Investment Income

Investment income is accounted for when received.

Allocation Of Costs

Costs are allocated according to the nature of the cost. Where items involve more than one category they are apportioned between the categories according to the nature of the cost. Detailed analysis of the allocation of costs is given in notes 7 and 8 of the accounts.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Taxation

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

Tangible Fixed Assets and Depreciation

Fixed assets for charity use are capitalised at cost, where acquired, or market value as determined by the trustees where donated.

Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of fixed assets, less their residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:

Buildings - not depreciated Fixtures and Fittings - 5 and 10 year straight line Computer equipment - 3 year straight line

The buildings are not being depreciated as the amount of depreciation is not considered to have a material effect on the financial statements.

Debtors/Creditors

Both Debtors and Creditors are included in the financial statements at transactional value.

Leased Assets

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against profits on a straight-line basis over the periods of the leases. Assets acquired under hire purchase contracts and finance leases are capitalised as tangible fixed assets and depreciated in accordance with the accounting policy on depreciation; the related obligations, net of finance costs allocated to future periods, are included in creditors. Finance costs are charged against profits on a straight-line basis over the periods of the contracts.

Pension Costs

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.

Fund Accounting

Funds held by the charity are either:

Unrestricted general funds – these are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds – these are funds that 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.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted 3 Income from Donations and Legacies Funds Funds £ £ Donations 6,021 - Legacies 1,000 - 7,021 - The income in 2020 was £3,992, which was all unrestricted. Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ 4 Charitable Activities Grants received 108,515 160,211 Furlough income 3,830 - Small business rates relief 10,000 - Interpreting fees 69,913 - Training fees 1,061 - Access to work funding 4,275 - Equipment installation 27,986 - Equipment registration fees 1,015 - Individual support 2,196 - Development work - Knowsley - - 228,791 160,211	2021 Total £ 6,021 1,000 7,021 2021 Total £ 268,726 3,830 10,000 69,913 1,061 4,275 27,986 1,015 2,196 - 389,002	2020 Total 3,992 - 3,992 2020 Total £ 185,098 - - 127,407 11,799 32,595 29,000 2,650 11,207 399,756

The income from charitable activities in 2020 was £399,756, of which £326,740 was unrestricted and £73,016 was restricted.

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ 5 Other Activities Hire of Hall, Lounge and Training Suite 5,141 - Other sundry income 3 - 5,144 -	2021 Total £ 5,141 3 5,144	2020 Total £ 20,783 5 20,788

The income in 2020 was all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
6
Investments
Bank interest
130
-
The income in 2020 was all unrestricted.
Unrestricted
Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
7
Raising Funds
Wages and salaries
23,967
-
Pension costs
981
-
Social security costs
1,388
-
Repairs and maintenance
3,254
-
Equipment hire
528
-
Ground rent and water rates
298
-
Heat and light
672
-
Insurance
468
-
Printing, stationery and advertising
-
-
Telephone
402
-
Depreciation
879
-
32,837
-

2021
Total
£
130
2021
Total
£
23,967
981
1,388
3,254
528
298
672
468
-
402
879
32,837

The expenses in 2020 were all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted 8 Charitable Activities Funds Funds £ £ Wages and salaries 79,972 79,165 Pension costs 4,048 1,686 Social security costs 3,938 3,968 Interpreting costs 42,156 16,057 Equipment and aids 10,536 1,730 Training delivery 1,986 1,479 Car mileage and subsistence 103 1,978 Repairs and maintenance 17,642 - Equipment hire 1,732 3,020 Building works 126 12,024 Ground rent and water rates 2,685 - Heat and light 6,047 - Insurance 4,209 - Project activities 2,101 - Printing, stationery and advertising 2,135 5,483 Telephone 3,481 140 Sundry expenses 1,491 - Licences, subscriptions and donations 6,945 - Depreciation 5,082 2,827 Bank charges 458 - Bank loan interest 291 - Staff Training 1,082 - Professional fees 1,920 - Governance costs (Note 9) 11,675 - 211,841 129,557	2021 Total £ 159,137 5,734 7,906 58,213 12,266 3,465 2,081 17,642 4,752 12,150 2,685 6,047 4,209 2,101 7,618 3,621 1,491 6,945 7,909 458 291 1,082 1,920 11,675 341,398	2020 Total £ 168,678 5,599 7,440 116,878 16,891 10,654 5,405 15,547 5,491 30,000 3,301 7,119 3,919 1,297 4,377 2,591 1,904 2,384 4,068 472 433 6,949 456 8,565 430,418

The expenses for charitable activities in 2020 were £430,418 of which £341,942 was unrestricted and £88,476 was restricted.

9 Governance Costs

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ Wages and salaries 6,110 - Pension costs 306 - Social security 426 - Accountancy – Independent Exam 1,750 - Accountancy – Other services 3,083 - 11,675 -	2021 Total £ 6,110 306 426 1,750 3,083 11,675	2020 Total £ 3,241 310 466 1,750 2,798 8,565

The expenses in 2020 were all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Staff Costs
							2021		2020
							£		£
Wages and salaries							189,718	188,712
Social security	costs						9,720	9,267
Pension costs							7,021	6,859
							206,459	204,838
The average	number	of	employees	of	the	charitable	company analysed		by
function was:-
Raising Funds							2		2
Charitable Activities							8		9
Governance Costs							1		1
							11		12

No employee earned £60,000 per annum or more. No Trustees received remuneration for services provided to the charity.

There were no other transactions in respect of trustees, no trustees received remuneration, benefit or reimbursement of travelling or other expenses.

The total remuneration paid in respect of the charity’s key management personnel was £37,455 (2020 £20,554).

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

11	Tangible Fixed Assets Freehold Land & Fixtures & Computer Buildings Fittings Equipment Cost £ £ £ At 1 April 2020 181,493 157,270 17,867 Additions - - 24,055 At 31 March 2021 181,493 157,270 41,922 Depreciation At 1 April 2020 - 149,520 15,442 Charge for the year - 4,769 4,019 At 31 March 2021 - 154,289 19,461 Net Book Values At 31 March 2021 181,493 2,981 22,461 At 31 March 2020 181,493 7,750 2,425	Total £ 356,630 24,055 380,685 164,962 8,788 173,750 206,935 191,668

The assets of the charity are used for the furtherance of the charity's objectives and also for the generation of income.

12 Debtors Trade debtors Prepayments	2021 £ 14,683 3,087 17,770	2020 £ 33,108 6,735 39,843

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

13 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income Taxation and social security Bank loan Other creditors 14 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year Bank loan 15 Analysis Of Net Assets By Fund Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ Fixed assets 184,841 22,094 Current assets 164,625 12,098 Liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year (21,081) - Liabilities: Amounts falling due after one year(2,157) - 326,228 34,192	2021 £ 5,148 9,122 4,183 1,827 801 21,081 2021 £ 2,157 2021 Total £ 206,935 176,723 (21,081) (2,157) 360,420	2020 £ 8,759 4,618 2,584 1,800 - 17,761 2020 £ 4,011 2020 Total £ 191,668 163,462 (17,761) (4,011) 333,358

16 Operating Lease Commitments

At 31 March 2021 the charitable company had annual commitments under non-cancellable operating lease as set out below:-

Operating Leases which expire: Less than one year Between one and five years	2021 £ 2,165 6,790 8,955	2020 £ - 14,661 14,661

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

17 Restricted Funds

Movement in Resources

	Balance			Balance
	as at			as at
1	April 2020	Incoming	Outgoing	31 March 2021
	£	£	£	£
Children In Need (1)	308	-	308	-
Steve Morgan Foundation	-	3,154	3,154	-
Defibrillator	748	-	209	539
Vision Support	2,482	-	2,482	-
Biffa	-	12,024	12,024	-
PH Holt Foundation	-	10,000	10,000	-
National Lottery	-	65,617	53,542	12,075
Community Foundation	-	2,966	1,741	1,225
Rotary Club	-	250	250	-
Awards for All – Laptops	-	3,500	1,010	2,490
Groundwork – UK	-	500	500	-
Morrisons Foundation	-	500	500	-
SMF – Community Challenge	-	42,391	30,288	12,103
Children in Need (4)	-	19,059	13,299	5,760
Rotary HSS	-	250	250	-
	3,538	160,211	129,557	34,192

The Children in Need (1) monies were used to purchase a multi-sensory play unit for the Happy Hands Group, and to run a residential for young people.

Funds received from Steve Morgan Foundation are towards the employment costs of the Advocacy Officer post.

Donations were received towards the purchase of a defibrillator machine.

Vision Support funds were used towards the setup of a Halton based office.

Biffa Awards funds are to be used to replace the hall floor.

PH Holt Foundation funds were used to provide 1:1 inclusive advocacy support for people who are profoundly deaf or have a severe hearing loss.

National Lottery funds were used to support to Deaf children, young people and families across Merseyside.

Community Foundation funds were used to fund technology due to Covid.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

17 Restricted Funds (continued)

Rotary Club funds to be used for befriending support in Halton.

Awards for All funds are to be used to support technology requirements due to Covid.

Groundwork UK funds to be used for essential packs for families.

Morrisons Foundation to be used for essential packs for families.

The Steve Morgan Foundation – Community Challenge funds are to be used to fund IT equipment and Database and to fund advocacy salary.

Children in Need (4) funds to be used to support work with vulnerable children and young people living in St Helens & Halton during the Covid pandemic.

Rotary HSS funds used for donor wanted spend across Halton services.

18 Related Party Disclosures

There were no related party transactions.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

DIRECTORS’ REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Company No: 06807282 Charity No: 1128148

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE)

	PAGE
Annual Report of the Board of Trustees	1 - 5
Independent Examiners’ Report	6
Statement Of Financial Activities	7
Balance Sheet	8
Notes to the Accounts	9 - 18

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

The trustees are pleased to present their report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2021.

Reference and Administrative Details

Charity number: 1128148 Company number: 06807282

Chief Executive: Ms H Fitzgerald

Registered Office

32-40 Dentons Green Lane St Helens Merseyside WA10 2QB

Solicitors

Directors & Trustees

The directors of the charitable company (the charity) who are also its trustees for the purpose of charity law and throughout this report are collectively referred to as the trustees.

The trustees serving during the year and since the year end were as follows:

Co-Opted

Rev H Lewis

In accordance with the constitution, at the Annual General Meeting all of the trustees retire and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Structure, Governance and Management

Governing document

The company is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Appointment of trustees

The trustees who have served during the year are set out on page 1. The trustees are elected by members of the company.

Trustee induction and training

Organisation

Risk Management

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Objectives and Activities

The objectives for which the Society is established are:-

Mission

‘To create an environment in which D/deaf people have access to services and opportunities that facilitate informed choices and decision making, leading to increased independence and respect’.

Core Values
Respect	-	for each other, customers and partners
Quality	-	throughout our services
Accountability	-	to all stakeholders
Dedication	-	to making a real difference
Commitment	-	to achieving our goals
Fairness	-	in the treatment of customers & clients

Diversity Statement

The Deafness Resource Centre embraces diversity. We actively pursue fair and equal access in our service delivery, employment and recruitment of staff and through work with external partners.

(A full copy of our Equality & Diversity Policy is available from the Deafness Resource Centre).

Achievements and Performance

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Achievements and Performance (Cont)

Impact and Public Benefit

To actively promote and advocate best practice around social inclusion of D/deaf people
To enable greater representation of D/deaf people
To provide infrastructure support services for D/deaf people and their families that will promote empowerment, facilitate greater independence and enhance lifestyles
To maintain a focus on organisational development and sustainability

Financial Review

The movement of funds for the year is set out in the Statement of Financial Activities.

The trustees report a surplus of £27,062 (2020 - deficit of £29,535) on its unrestricted and restricted funds.

As part of its ongoing development the charity continues to be supported by local and national partners who provide a significant part of it’s funding.

Investment Powers and Policy

Under the constitution, the charity has the power to invest in any way the trustees wish.

Reserves Policy

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Plans for Future Periods

Source funding to maintain the children and families work currently funded through BBC Children in Need (ends March 22);
Promote the availability of room hire to bring usage to pre-covid levels and increase generated income;
Develop partnership working to broaden service offers and availability (Merseyside wide);
Reintroduce outreach events and activities to promote services across the region;

Trustees Responsibility Statement

Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
Observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP;
Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.

Independent Examiners

A motion proposing the re-appointment of David Hudd of Livesey Spottiswood as Independent Examiner of the charity will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting.

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.

Approved by order of the board of trustees on and signed on its behalf by:

MRS I SANKSON CHAIR

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED

Independent examiner’s report to the trustees of Deafness Resource Centre Limited (‘the company’)

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 March 2021.

Responsibilities and basis of report

Independent examiner’s statement

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:

accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act
other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)).

Mr David Hudd Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Livesey Spottiswood Ltd 17 George Street St Helens Merseyside WA10 1DB

Date……………………………….

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING AN INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds Note £ £ Income Donations and Legacies 3 7,021 - Charitable Activities 4 228,791 160,211 Other Activities 5 5,144 - Investments 6 130 - Total Income 241,086 160,211 Expenditure Raising Funds 7 32,837 - Charitable Activities 8211,841 129,557 Total Expenditure 244,678 129,557 Net Income/(Expenditure) (3,592) 30,654 Reconciliation of Funds Fund balances brought forward at 1 April 2020 329,820 3,538 Fund balances carried forward at 31 March 2021 326,228 34,192	2021 Total £ 7,021 389,002 5,144 130 401,297 32,837 341,398 374,235 27,062 333,358 360,420	2020 Total £ 3,992 399,756 20,788 135 424,671 23,788 430,418 454,206 (29,535) 362,893 333,358

The notes on pages 9 to 18 form part of these accounts.

Company No.06807282

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 MARCH 2021

Notes Fixed Assets Tangible fixed assets 11 Current Assets Debtors 12 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year 13 Net Current Assets Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year 14 Net Assets 15 Funds Unrestricted funds Unrestricted funds held in fixed assets Restricted funds 17	2021 £ £ 206,935 17,770 158,953 176,723 (21,081) 155,642 (2,157) 360,420 141,387 184,841 34,192 360,420	2020 £ £ 191,668 39,843 123,619 163,462 (17,761) 145,701 (4,011) 333,358 141,690 188,130 3,538 333,358

The trustees acknowledge their responsibility for:

(a) ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records which comply with sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006, and
(b) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small charitable companies.

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

TRUSTEE: Mrs I Sankson

TRUSTEE: Mr P Harvey

The notes on pages 9 to 18 form part of these accounts.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

1 Statutory Information

The presentation currency of the financial statements is in the Pound Sterling (£).

2 Accounting Policies

Basis of Preparing the financial statements

Donations, Legacies and Grants

These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when:

the charity becomes entitled to the donation, legacies and grants of similar income and any conditions for receipt are met
the trustees are reasonably certain they will receive it; and
the trustees are reasonably certain that the value can be reliably measured.

Grants Receivable

Investment Income

Investment income is accounted for when received.

Allocation Of Costs

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Taxation

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

Tangible Fixed Assets and Depreciation

Fixed assets for charity use are capitalised at cost, where acquired, or market value as determined by the trustees where donated.

Depreciation is calculated to write off the cost or valuation of fixed assets, less their residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases:

Buildings - not depreciated Fixtures and Fittings - 5 and 10 year straight line Computer equipment - 3 year straight line

The buildings are not being depreciated as the amount of depreciation is not considered to have a material effect on the financial statements.

Debtors/Creditors

Both Debtors and Creditors are included in the financial statements at transactional value.

Leased Assets

Pension Costs

Fund Accounting

Funds held by the charity are either:

Unrestricted general funds – these are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds – these are funds that 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.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted 3 Income from Donations and Legacies Funds Funds £ £ Donations 6,021 - Legacies 1,000 - 7,021 - The income in 2020 was £3,992, which was all unrestricted. Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ 4 Charitable Activities Grants received 108,515 160,211 Furlough income 3,830 - Small business rates relief 10,000 - Interpreting fees 69,913 - Training fees 1,061 - Access to work funding 4,275 - Equipment installation 27,986 - Equipment registration fees 1,015 - Individual support 2,196 - Development work - Knowsley - - 228,791 160,211	2021 Total £ 6,021 1,000 7,021 2021 Total £ 268,726 3,830 10,000 69,913 1,061 4,275 27,986 1,015 2,196 - 389,002	2020 Total 3,992 - 3,992 2020 Total £ 185,098 - - 127,407 11,799 32,595 29,000 2,650 11,207 399,756

The income from charitable activities in 2020 was £399,756, of which £326,740 was unrestricted and £73,016 was restricted.

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ 5 Other Activities Hire of Hall, Lounge and Training Suite 5,141 - Other sundry income 3 - 5,144 -	2021 Total £ 5,141 3 5,144	2020 Total £ 20,783 5 20,788

The income in 2020 was all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

2021
Total
£
130
2021
Total
£
23,967
981
1,388
3,254
528
298
672
468
-
402
879
32,837

The expenses in 2020 were all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Unrestricted Restricted 8 Charitable Activities Funds Funds £ £ Wages and salaries 79,972 79,165 Pension costs 4,048 1,686 Social security costs 3,938 3,968 Interpreting costs 42,156 16,057 Equipment and aids 10,536 1,730 Training delivery 1,986 1,479 Car mileage and subsistence 103 1,978 Repairs and maintenance 17,642 - Equipment hire 1,732 3,020 Building works 126 12,024 Ground rent and water rates 2,685 - Heat and light 6,047 - Insurance 4,209 - Project activities 2,101 - Printing, stationery and advertising 2,135 5,483 Telephone 3,481 140 Sundry expenses 1,491 - Licences, subscriptions and donations 6,945 - Depreciation 5,082 2,827 Bank charges 458 - Bank loan interest 291 - Staff Training 1,082 - Professional fees 1,920 - Governance costs (Note 9) 11,675 - 211,841 129,557	2021 Total £ 159,137 5,734 7,906 58,213 12,266 3,465 2,081 17,642 4,752 12,150 2,685 6,047 4,209 2,101 7,618 3,621 1,491 6,945 7,909 458 291 1,082 1,920 11,675 341,398	2020 Total £ 168,678 5,599 7,440 116,878 16,891 10,654 5,405 15,547 5,491 30,000 3,301 7,119 3,919 1,297 4,377 2,591 1,904 2,384 4,068 472 433 6,949 456 8,565 430,418

The expenses for charitable activities in 2020 were £430,418 of which £341,942 was unrestricted and £88,476 was restricted.

9 Governance Costs

Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ £ Wages and salaries 6,110 - Pension costs 306 - Social security 426 - Accountancy – Independent Exam 1,750 - Accountancy – Other services 3,083 - 11,675 -	2021 Total £ 6,110 306 426 1,750 3,083 11,675	2020 Total £ 3,241 310 466 1,750 2,798 8,565

The expenses in 2020 were all unrestricted.

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

Staff Costs
							2021		2020
							£		£
Wages and salaries							189,718	188,712
Social security	costs						9,720	9,267
Pension costs							7,021	6,859
							206,459	204,838
The average	number	of	employees	of	the	charitable	company analysed		by
function was:-
Raising Funds							2		2
Charitable Activities							8		9
Governance Costs							1		1
							11		12

No employee earned £60,000 per annum or more. No Trustees received remuneration for services provided to the charity.

There were no other transactions in respect of trustees, no trustees received remuneration, benefit or reimbursement of travelling or other expenses.

The total remuneration paid in respect of the charity’s key management personnel was £37,455 (2020 £20,554).

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

11	Tangible Fixed Assets Freehold Land & Fixtures & Computer Buildings Fittings Equipment Cost £ £ £ At 1 April 2020 181,493 157,270 17,867 Additions - - 24,055 At 31 March 2021 181,493 157,270 41,922 Depreciation At 1 April 2020 - 149,520 15,442 Charge for the year - 4,769 4,019 At 31 March 2021 - 154,289 19,461 Net Book Values At 31 March 2021 181,493 2,981 22,461 At 31 March 2020 181,493 7,750 2,425	Total £ 356,630 24,055 380,685 164,962 8,788 173,750 206,935 191,668

The assets of the charity are used for the furtherance of the charity's objectives and also for the generation of income.

12 Debtors Trade debtors Prepayments	2021 £ 14,683 3,087 17,770	2020 £ 33,108 6,735 39,843

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

13 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income Taxation and social security Bank loan Other creditors 14 Creditors: Amounts Falling Due After More Than One Year Bank loan 15 Analysis Of Net Assets By Fund Unrestricted Restricted Funds Funds £ Fixed assets 184,841 22,094 Current assets 164,625 12,098 Liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year (21,081) - Liabilities: Amounts falling due after one year(2,157) - 326,228 34,192	2021 £ 5,148 9,122 4,183 1,827 801 21,081 2021 £ 2,157 2021 Total £ 206,935 176,723 (21,081) (2,157) 360,420	2020 £ 8,759 4,618 2,584 1,800 - 17,761 2020 £ 4,011 2020 Total £ 191,668 163,462 (17,761) (4,011) 333,358

16 Operating Lease Commitments

At 31 March 2021 the charitable company had annual commitments under non-cancellable operating lease as set out below:-

Operating Leases which expire: Less than one year Between one and five years	2021 £ 2,165 6,790 8,955	2020 £ - 14,661 14,661

DEAFNESS RESOURCE CENTRE LIMITED (LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021

17 Restricted Funds

Movement in Resources

	Balance			Balance
	as at			as at
1	April 2020	Incoming	Outgoing	31 March 2021
	£	£	£	£
Children In Need (1)	308	-	308	-
Steve Morgan Foundation	-	3,154	3,154	-
Defibrillator	748	-	209	539
Vision Support	2,482	-	2,482	-
Biffa	-	12,024	12,024	-
PH Holt Foundation	-	10,000	10,000	-
National Lottery	-	65,617	53,542	12,075
Community Foundation	-	2,966	1,741	1,225
Rotary Club	-	250	250	-
Awards for All – Laptops	-	3,500	1,010	2,490
Groundwork – UK	-	500	500	-
Morrisons Foundation	-	500	500	-
SMF – Community Challenge	-	42,391	30,288	12,103
Children in Need (4)	-	19,059	13,299	5,760
Rotary HSS	-	250	250	-
	3,538	160,211	129,557	34,192