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← Derbyshire Voluntary Action

2025-03-31-accounts

Registered number: 06956527 Charity number: 1134329

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

UNAUDITED

TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

CONTENTS

Page
Reference and administrative details of the company, its Trustees and advisers 1
Chair's report 2
Trustees' report 3 - 21
Independent examiner's report 22
Statement of financial activities 23
Balance sheet 24 - 25
Statement of cash flows 26
Notes to the financial statements 27 - 44

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE COMPANY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Trustees

Julie Dixon, Chair Wan Ten Yap Helen Bagley Julia Cook Jill Manion-Brunt Sue Wheatcroft Timothy Adwick (appointed 16 October 2024) Seema Sahni (appointed 16 October 2024) Dominic Rees-Jones (resigned 16 October 2024)

Company registered number

06956527

Charity registered number

1134329

Registered office

3rd Floor, Dents Chambers 81 New Square Chesterfield Derbyshire S40 1AH

Bankers

Unity Trust Bank Plc. Nine Brindleyplace Birmingham B1 2HB

Independent Examiner

Nicola O'Sullivan FCA DChA BHP LLP Chartered Accountants One, Waterside Place Basin Square Brimington Road Chesterfield S41 7FH

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

CHAIR'S REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Chair presents her statement as Chair of Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Board of Trustees:

It is with great pride and gratitude that I present this year’s Chair’s Report for Derbyshire Voluntary Action. The past year has been both challenging and inspiring, and I continue to be humbled by the dedication, creativity, and resilience of our team, volunteers, and partners.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action has remained at the heart of community wellbeing across Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, Bolsover, and beyond. Our work has spanned infrastructure support, strategic representation, mental health advocacy, and grassroots engagement, each contributing to a stronger, more connected voluntary sector.

One of our most impactful initiatives, the Feeling Connected Project, has grown significantly. It supported 78 volunteerorganisers and delivered 62 micro-grants, helping to reduce loneliness and social isolation. Survey results showed that 85% of attendees felt their social circle had expanded, and 88% reported having more people to turn to for help in daily life. These outcomes reflect the deep value of community-led initiatives.

The Hub @ Low Pavement has become a vital space for connection and support. Welcoming between 60 and 70 people each week, it offers a safe and inclusive environment where individuals can engage in activities, access information, and build relationships. This year, we began transitioning the Hub to a volunteer-led model, empowering local people to take ownership and lead activities themselves, a testament to the strength and commitment of our community.

Our Mental Health Liaison Service continued to provide strategic representation and support, delivering forums, bulletins, and the deeply moving ‘Moments in Time’ documentary project. This initiative, which shares personal stories of mental health and suicide, is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, connection, and early intervention.

We also celebrated the fifth and final year of Community Chesterfield, our award-winning partnership with the University of Derby. This collaboration has left a legacy of learning, connection, and innovation, which continues to shape our work. In response to proposed funding cuts, we launched the ‘Save Our Sector’ campaign, standing firmly in defense of Derbyshire’s voluntary services. Despite overwhelming public support, the cuts were approved, but our advocacy efforts demonstrated our unwavering commitment to protecting essential community services and infrastructure.

The Winter Festival, held in autumn 2024, was a joyful celebration of the voluntary sector’s resilience and creativity. It brought together local organisations, volunteers, and community members for a day of connections, recognition, and inspiration.

Financially, we ended the year in a strong position, with total income of £682,170 and net income of £139,029. While we remain cautious about future funding uncertainties, our reserves provide a stable foundation for continued impact. Looking ahead, our focus is on deepening our reach, strengthening our infrastructure, and amplifying the voices of lived experience. We will continue to champion innovation, inclusion, and collaboration, ensuring Derbyshire Voluntary Action remains a trusted and responsive organisation at the heart of community wellbeing.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our Chief Executive, Jacqui Willis, the staff team, our volunteers, and my fellow Trustees. Your dedication and passion make everything we do possible. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Derbyshire.

_________ Julie Dixon Chair

Date: 28 November 2025

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The Trustees (who are directors of the charity for the purposes of the Companies Act) present their annual report together with the financial statements of the Charity Derbyshire Voluntary Action for the year 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025. The Trustees confirm that the Annual Report and financial statements of the charity comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charity's governing document and the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), 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).

Since the company qualifies as small under section 382 of the Companies Act 2006, the Strategic report required of medium and large companies under the Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors' Report) Regulations 2013 has been omitted.

Objectives and activities

a. Policies and objectives

The charitable objects of Derbyshire Voluntary Action as stated in the Memorandum and Articles of Association are:

Derbyshire Voluntary Action's main aim is to support health related voluntary groups working in Derbyshire.

During this period, Integrated Care Board (ICB) funded Derbyshire Voluntary Action under its Framework Specification for Organisations Delivering Voluntary Sector Infrastructure Services in Derby and Derbyshire, requiring us to deliver against the following local defined outcomes agreed by Governing Bodies:

  1. Building community capacity through support to local VCFSE (Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise) groups and services.

  2. VCSE infrastructure services have a local presence in the community and provide a front door to and for the VCSE.

  3. Effective volunteer support and brokerage.

  4. VCSE engagement and communication at strategic, individual and local level.

  5. Effective signposting to VCSE services.

In addition, Derbyshire County Council (DCC) funded Derbyshire Voluntary Action, via a Service Level Agreement to provide the following support and outcomes:

Sector Support: Derbyshire’s VCSE is supported to grow and develop, enabling residents to contribute to social and cultural opportunities which enhances their lives and the lives of others.

Volunteer Support: Increased pathways to volunteering gives opportunities to individuals to contribute to their community and is accessible to all.

3: Volunteer brokerage

Strategic Support: VCSE organisations are supported to contribute to the strategic priorities of the Council

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Section b below describes the work, which Derbyshire Voluntary Action has undertaken to meet these objectives.

b. Activities for achieving objectives and achievements and performance

Derbyshire Voluntary Action works with health-related voluntary and community organisations, providing networks of information and support.

Infrastructure Support: Strengthening the Foundations of Community Wellbeing

Infrastructure support is at the heart of Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s mission. It underpins everything we do to enable voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations to thrive, collaborate, and deliver meaningful impact across Derbyshire. Our approach is rooted in hyper-local engagement, ensuring that support is accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the lived realities of our communities. We work alongside organisations, not above them, building trust, fostering collaboration, and amplifying the strengths of the sector.

Our support allows groups to grow, adapt, and respond to the evolving needs of their communities. This includes tailored advice, capacity building, funding guidance, governance support, and strategic representation. We help organisations navigate complex systems, access resources, and build the confidence and resilience needed to sustain their work.

In 2024/25, our infrastructure support has been instrumental in:

Our infrastructure support is not just about operational guidance, it is about strategic empowerment, sector advocacy, and long-term sustainability. We are a strong and vocal advocate for the VCFSE sector, ensuring its value is recognised and its voice is heard in decision-making spaces. In 2024/25, we led the ’Save Our Sector’ campaign in response to proposed cuts to discretionary grant funding by Derbyshire County Council. This campaign mobilised organisations, stakeholders, and the public to stand up for the essential services provided by local groups. Despite the approval of the funding cuts, our campaign demonstrated the sector’s unity, strength, and determination. It also reinforced our role as a trusted infrastructure organisation that not only supports the sector behind the scenes but also champions it publicly and strategically. As funding pressures and system changes continue to challenge the VCFSE landscape, our infrastructure support remains a vital lifeline. It enables organisations to stay connected, informed, and resilient, and ensures that the voluntary sector continues to play a vital role in shaping health and wellbeing across Derbyshire.

We continue to represent the sector at local and county-wide levels, advocating for sustainable funding, inclusive commissioning, and meaningful engagement with VCFSE organisations. Our infrastructure support is deeply rooted in place-based working, ensuring that solutions are shaped by the lived experience of communities and the organisations that serve them.

As we look ahead, Derbyshire Voluntary Action remains committed to strengthening the foundations of the sector—through practical support, strategic leadership, and bold advocacy. We will continue to stand alongside our members, amplify their voices, and work tirelessly to ensure the sector is valued, visible, and empowered.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

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

Objectives and activities (continued)

Derbyshire Voluntary Action Health & Wellbeing Voluntary Sector Forum

The Health & Social Care Voluntary Sector Forum continues to be a cornerstone of Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s commitment to sector-wide collaboration, strategic engagement, and community-led influence. In 2024/25, the Forum met on four occasions, one virtually and three in person, bringing together a diverse range of voluntary and community organisations working across the health and wellbeing landscape.

These meetings provided a vital space for members to share insights, raise concerns, and collaborate on solutions to emerging challenges. The Forum is more than a meeting it is a dynamic platform for dialogue, learning, and collective action. It enables organisations of all sizes to engage with strategic developments, influence local policy, and strengthen partnerships with statutory bodies and system leaders.

The Forum remains responsive to the evolving needs of its membership and the wider health and care environment. It has played a key role in amplifying the voice of the voluntary sector, ensuring that community-based organisations are not only heard but actively involved in shaping services and systems. Discussions have covered a wide range of topics, from integrated care and funding pressures to mental health, social prescribing, and health inequalities.

Importantly, the Forum fosters a culture of mutual support and shared learning. It helps build sector resilience by encouraging innovation, promoting best practice, and facilitating connections between organisations that might otherwise work in isolation. It also provides a valuable opportunity for smaller groups to engage with larger strategic conversations, ensuring that grassroots perspectives are represented at every level.

As we look ahead, Derbyshire Voluntary Action is committed to further developing the Forum’s role as a strategic connector and enabler. We will continue to invest in its growth, accessibility, and impact, ensuring it remains a trusted space for collaboration, advocacy, and sector leadership.

News Bulletin - Derbyshire Voluntary Action's electronic information bulletin

During 2024/25, Derbyshire Voluntary Action produced and distributed 114 electronic information bulletins to a growing audience of 770 recipients. These bulletins are a cornerstone of our communications strategy, ensuring that our members, stakeholders, and wider networks remain informed, connected, and empowered.

Each bulletin is carefully curated to include timely updates on funding opportunities, training events, policy developments, local initiatives, and national campaigns relevant to the health and wellbeing voluntary sector. The bulletins are highly valued by recipients for their clarity, relevance, and accessibility, and they play a vital role in strengthening sector-wide knowledge and collaboration.

Our ability to distribute same-day information when needed ensures that urgent updates such as funding deadlines, public health alerts, or strategic consultations reach the sector without delay. This responsiveness has proven especially important during times of change or uncertainty.

Feedback from recipients consistently highlights the bulletin’s usefulness in helping organisations stay informed, access resources, and engage with opportunities they might otherwise miss. It is a key tool in our mission to build capacity, foster partnerships, and amplify the voice of the voluntary sector across Derbyshire.

Our New Branding

In 2024/25, Derbyshire Voluntary Action launched a refreshed brand identity that reflects our values, purpose, and the vibrant communities we serve. More than a visual update, our new branding has become a powerful tool for connection, clarity, and impact.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

The new visual identity is vibrant, inclusive, and recognisable. It is designed to resonate with the diverse audiences we serve, from grassroots volunteers to strategic partners. It captures the energy and warmth of our work, while reinforcing our role as a trusted infrastructure organisation at the heart of Derbyshire’s health and wellbeing sector.

Designed to be inclusive, professional, and approachable, the fresh look has strengthened our visibility across our projects and platforms, from printed materials and signage to our website and digital communications. It has helped us better communicate who we are and what we stand for, while resonating with a wide range of audiences including volunteers, partners, and funders.

The branding process was collaborative and community-informed, ensuring it reflects the heart of our organisation. Since its launch, we have seen increased engagement, stronger recognition, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from stakeholders.

But the power of our brand does not stop at design, it comes to life through our communications, especially our growing presence on social media.

The Power of Our Social Media Campaigns

Building on the momentum of our refreshed branding, Derbyshire Voluntary Action has continued to strengthen its digital presence through dynamic and purposeful social media campaigns. These platforms have become essential tools for storytelling, advocacy, and engagement, allowing us to connect with our communities in real time and amplify the voices of the voluntary sector.

Throughout 2024/25, our social media channels have been used to share updates, celebrate achievements, and promote opportunities that matter to our members and stakeholders. From highlighting the impact of our Feeling Connected initiatives to rallying support for the Save Our Sector campaign and sharing information and achievements of our members and the wider VCSFE community, our posts have reflected the energy, compassion, and resilience of the sector we represent.

We have embraced a more strategic and creative approach to content, using visuals, video, and storytelling to bring our work to life. Our campaigns have helped raise awareness around key issues such as mental health, loneliness, and community wellbeing, while also showcasing the incredible work being done by local groups and volunteers.

Importantly, social media has enabled us to respond quickly to emerging needs, whether sharing urgent funding news, promoting events, or signposting support services. It has become a space not just for broadcasting information, but for fostering dialogue, building relationships, and encouraging collaboration across sectors.

The growth in engagement across our platforms is a testament to the power of authentic communication. Our followers are not just passive recipients; they are active participants in shaping the conversation around health and wellbeing in Derbyshire. As we look ahead, we remain committed to using social media as a force for good: to inform, inspire, and connect.

Website - www. dva.org.uk

In line with our new branding, Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s website underwent a significant refresh in 2024/25, transforming it into a more dynamic, accessible, and user-friendly platform. The redesign was not just cosmetic, it was a strategic move to better reflect our values, improve navigation, and enhance the way we communicate with our communities.

The updated site now serves as a central hub for information, engagement, and connection. It features regularly updated news and events, funding opportunities, project updates, and details about our services and small grants. The layout is clean and intuitive, making it easier for visitors to find what they need and explore the breadth of our work.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Importantly, the website now better highlights the diversity and impact of the voluntary sector in Derbyshire. It highlights member organisations, shares stories from our projects, and provides clear pathways for individuals and groups to get involved, whether through volunteering, partnership, or accessing support.

The refreshed design also aligns seamlessly with our new visual identity, reinforcing brand consistency across all our communications. Feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on the improved clarity, warmth, and professionalism of the site.

As we continue to grow and evolve, the website will remain a vital tool for outreach, advocacy, and collaboration, ensuring that Derbyshire Voluntary Action remains visible, approachable, and responsive to the needs of our communities.

Community Champions

Throughout 2024/25, Derbyshire Voluntary Action continued to deliver impactful community engagement work focused on the wider determinants of health. Our Community Champions initiative played a key role in bridging the gap between public health messaging and local communities, ensuring that vital information was shared in a way that was accessible, relevant, and rooted in lived experience.

Working in close partnership with Derbyshire County Council Public Health and the NHS, we produced and distributed regular targeted information bulletins to 407 recipients. These bulletins were crafted to reflect the needs and concerns of local communities, translating complex health guidance into clear, community-focused communications. Whether addressing seasonal health issues, promoting mental wellbeing, or signposting to local services, the bulletins helped ensure that public health messaging reached the people who needed it most.

The Community Champions work reflects our commitment to inclusive, place-based engagement. By empowering communities with information and representation, we help build resilience, improve health outcomes, and strengthen the connection between statutory services and the voluntary sector.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action Database

Derbyshire Voluntary Action maintains a specialist database of health-related community organisations, with a particular focus on North Derbyshire. The database is a key component of our infrastructure support and provides a comprehensive and up-to-date record of charities, social enterprises, and volunteer-led groups working to improve health and wellbeing across the region. Our membership currently stands at 371 organisations, with 21 new memberships approved by our Board of Trustees during 2024/25. This growth reflects the sector’s continued dynamism and the increasing recognition of the value of voluntary and community organisations in shaping local health outcomes.

The database is regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance, and it plays a vital role in connecting people to services, supporting social prescribing, and strengthening the visibility of grassroots initiatives. It also underpins our communications work, helping us tailor bulletins, campaigns, and outreach to the real needs of our communities.

As we move forward, we will continue to invest in the development and promotion of the database, ensuring it remains a trusted and effective tool for building a more connected and resilient voluntary sector in Derbyshire.

Community Directory Derbyshire

Derbyshire Voluntary Action continues to work in partnership with infrastructure partners across Derbyshire to jointly support and be responsible for data population of the Community Directory Derbyshire. This includes responsibility for a proportion of the associated costs, input, and refresh. The Community Directory lists all voluntary groups, including health and care related groups.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Thrive Evaluation

We received funding to evaluate the effectiveness of the Thrive Children and Young People’s Social Prescribing project.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action Health and Wellbeing Grant

In 2024–25, the Integrated Care Board and Derbyshire County Council Public Health allocated four separate funding streams to Derbyshire Voluntary Action. These were combined and administered as a single Health and Wellbeing Grant, covering Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover.

The grant programme is designed to support both new and existing not-for-profit voluntary and community organisations in their efforts to strengthen local communities and improve the health and wellbeing of their beneficiaries. It prioritises initiatives that addressed health inequalities, promoted social connectedness, and responded to the wider determinants of health.

A total of 32 Health and Wellbeing Grants were awarded during the year, enabling a diverse range of grassroots projects to flourish. These included peer support groups, community-led wellbeing activities, outreach programmes, and preventative health initiatives, all tailored to meet the unique needs of local residents.

Beyond financial support, the grant programme also fostered capacity building, partnership development, and increased visibility for smaller organisations that often operate below the radar. Many recipients reported that the funding helped them reach new audiences, expand their services, and build stronger connections within their communities. The success of the Health and Wellbeing Grant reflects Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s commitment to equitable, placebased investment in community health.

As we look ahead, we remain focused on advocating for continued and sustainable funding that empowers local organisations to lead the way in improving wellbeing across Derbyshire.

- Derbyshire Voluntary Action Start Up Grant

The Start-Up Grant is a vital part of Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s commitment to nurturing grassroots community action. Designed specifically to support newly formed community groups, the grant helps volunteers cover the essential costs of setting up and running their initiatives, often at the earliest and most vulnerable stage of development.

Whether it's hiring a venue, purchasing materials, promoting activities, or covering insurance, the Start-Up Grant provides flexible funding that enables passionate individuals and informal groups to turn their ideas into action. It removes financial barriers and empowers people to respond to local needs with creativity, compassion, and energy.

During 2024/25, 5 Start-Up Grants were awarded, each helping to seed new community-led initiatives that contribute to social connectedness, wellbeing, and inclusion. These small but strategic investments have a ripple effect building confidence among organisers, encouraging participation, and laying the foundations for sustainable community activity. The Start-Up Grant reflects our belief that meaningful change often begins at the grassroots level. By supporting people to take the first step, we help foster a culture of local leadership, innovation, and resilience across Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grant

In response to growing concerns that vulnerable residents may struggle to heat their homes during the colder months, potentially impacting both physical and mental health, Derbyshire County Council provided funding to Derbyshire Voluntary Action to deliver the Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grant scheme.

This initiative aims to create a network of free, warm, and inclusive spaces across the county, offering comfort, connection, and practical support to those most at risk of isolation or hardship during the winter period. The scheme recognised the vital role that community venues and voluntary organisations play in supporting wellbeing, especially during times of economic and social pressure.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Grants ranging from £1,000 to £3,000 were made available to voluntary and community organisations, as well as informal community-led groups, to establish or enhance warm spaces within their local areas. These funds supported a wide range of project-related costs, including heating, refreshments, activities and staffing, ensuring each space could offer a welcoming and dignified experience.

The response to the grant programme was overwhelming, with 131 applications received. Of these, 89 were successful, while 42 were unfortunately unsuccessful due to the scheme being oversubscribed. This level of demand highlights both the need for such support and capacity of Derbyshire’s voluntary sector to respond quickly and compassionately to community challenges.

In addition to the county-wide scheme, Erewash Borough Council provided a supplementary pot of funding, which was distributed to 10 successful groups within the borough to support the same initiative. The Warm and Welcoming Spaces initiative not only provided immediate relief during the winter months, but it also strengthened community ties, reduced isolation, and demonstrated the power of local action in promoting health and wellbeing.

Representation of the VCS at Strategic Level

Strategic representation remains essential to Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s role within the health and care system. Throughout 2024/25, our Chief Executive, Jacqui Willis, has continued to provide strong and consistent representation for the health and care-related VCFSE sector across Derbyshire. Jacqui’s involvement spans a wide range of influential boards and partnerships, including the Derbyshire Health and Wellbeing Board, County Place Partnership Board, Place Alliance Leadership Meeting (PALM), and the Learning Disability County Partnership Board, where she serves as Chair. Her contributions also extend to the Derbyshire Safeguarding Adults Board and the VCFSE Alliance, ensuring that the voluntary sector’s voice is embedded in strategic planning and decision-making at the highest levels.

Locally, Jacqui has played a key role in Chesterfield’s Strategic Community Wellbeing Coordination Group, as well as the Place Alliances and Health and Wellbeing Partnerships for Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover. Her active participation in the Living Well Collaboratives across these districts has helped ensure that community insight and lived experience are central to the design and delivery of services.

This strategic representation is not only about presence, but also about influence. Jacqui brings the perspectives of grassroots organisations into spaces where decisions are made, advocating for inclusive, person-centred approaches and championing the value of community-led solutions. Her leadership helps bridge the gap between statutory systems and the voluntary sector, fostering collaboration, trust, and shared purpose. Through this work, Derbyshire Voluntary Action continues to ensure that the VCFSE sector is recognised as an essential partner in shaping the future of health and wellbeing across the county.

Save Our Sector: Standing Up for Derbyshire’s VCSE Community

In response to proposed discretionary funding cuts, Derbyshire Voluntary Action launched the Save Our Sector campaign to protect the vital work of voluntary and community organisations across the county. The campaign culminated in a highimpact event, hosted in partnership with Chesterfield Football Club, which brought together stakeholders, service providers, and community leaders in a united call for action.

The accompanying Impact Report highlighted:

The campaign gained widespread support, including a petition and media coverage, and reinforced the message that community-led services are not optional, they are foundational.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

c. Activities for achieving objectives and achievements and performance (continued)

Chesterfield Royal Hospital (CRH) NHS Trust - Partner Governors

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Council of Governors is a stakeholder group for the local community. It plays a key role in the stewardship of the Trust, including responsibility for the appointment of the Chair and non-executive directors. Every three years, Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s membership elects two representatives to fulfil the role of Partner Governor and represent the VCFSE in the running of local healthcare services. Dave Radford and Tim Adwick are our current Partner Governors.

Mental Health Liaison Service

Derbyshire Voluntary Action continues to host and manage North Derbyshire’s Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS), commissioned under NHS Derby and Derbyshire’s Framework Specification for Organisations Delivering Voluntary Sector Infrastructure Services. MHLS plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the voluntary sector is meaningfully represented in the planning, delivery, and evaluation of mental health services across the county. The service is built on four core objectives:

  1. To provide a platform for voluntary agencies delivering mental health services to come together, share insights, and influence strategic planning.

  2. To represent voluntary sector mental health providers on commissioning bodies and key planning groups.

  3. To ensure voluntary sector voices are present and valued in multi-agency forums and review bodies.

  4. To train and support voluntary sector representatives to engage confidently and effectively in strategic spaces.

In 2024/25, MHLS delivered the Voluntary Sector Mental Health Network (VSMHN), which now includes 116 representatives from both VCFSE and statutory providers. The network met through four successful forums, including two Joint Countywide Forums in collaboration with Derbyshire Mental Health Forum, and three North Derbyshire Mental Health Forums, alongside several themed workshops and events. These gatherings fostered shared learning, strengthened partnerships, and created space for open dialogue on pressing mental health issues. Additionally, 57 electronic bulletins were distributed to 246 recipients, ensuring timely dissemination of opportunities, updates, and sector intelligence.

Strategic representation was significantly enhanced this year through the leadership of Rachel Bounds, our Mental Health Liaison Service Manager. Rachel provided voluntary sector representation at both strategic and operational levels, contributing to a wide range of influential groups including:

This extensive engagement ensures that the voluntary sector’s expertise, lived experience, and community insight are embedded into the design and delivery of mental health services. Rachel’s contributions have helped shape policy, influence commissioning decisions, and advocate for inclusive, person-centred approaches across the system.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

MHLS continues to be a vital connector between statutory services and community organisations, championing collaboration, equity, and innovation in mental health. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening this strategic role, ensuring that voluntary sector voices are not only heard, but actively shape the future of mental health care in Derbyshire.

Support for Voluntary Groups

A key function of the Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS) is to support voluntary groups working in the mental health space by connecting them to relevant information, opportunities, and strategic developments. MHLS maintains strong links locally, regionally, and nationally with a wide range of organisations, enabling it to function as a conduit between grassroots providers and the wider mental health system.

Throughout 2024/25, MHLS continued to share timely and targeted updates with its network, ensuring that voluntary sector organisations were informed about funding opportunities, policy changes, training events, and collaborative initiatives. This flow of information helps build sector capacity, encourages innovation, and strengthens the ability of small and medium-sized groups to engage meaningfully with strategic agendas.

One of the most valued resources shared by MHLS is the Mental Health Support Pack, a simple, accessible guide designed to help individuals and organisations navigate the mental health landscape. The pack has been widely distributed across Derbyshire and beyond and has proven to be a practical tool for frontline workers, community organisers, and statutory partners alike. It continues to be used by mental health teams and voluntary groups as a reference point for signposting, service design, and community engagement.

By offering this kind of support, MHLS ensures that voluntary groups are not only informed but empowered. It helps them build confidence, strengthen their voice, and contribute to the co-production of mental health services that reflect the real needs of Derbyshire’s communities.

Moments in Time

In 2024/25, Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS) embarked on an ambitious and emotionally resonant project: the creation of a documentary titled ‘Moments in Time’. This innovative initiative was designed to raise awareness around suicide prevention and mental health by sharing the deeply personal stories of four individuals who have experienced profound moments of crisis, recovery, and resilience.

Led by Rachel Bounds and Ellie Scott, the project brought together lived experience, professional insight, and creative storytelling. Working in close collaboration with a Mental Health and Wellbeing Film Consultant and a professional film crew, the team ensured that each story was captured with sensitivity, authenticity, and impact.

The documentary aims to challenge stigma, spark conversation, and promote understanding of the complex realities surrounding mental health and suicide. It reflects Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s commitment to amplifying the voices of those with lived experience and embedding those voices into the heart of strategic planning and service design.

Moments in Time is more than a film, it is a strategic tool for advocacy, education, and engagement. Once completed, it will be shared widely across Derbyshire and beyond, including at local documentary festivals. It will also serve as a resource for professionals, community groups, and educational settings, helping to foster empathy, encourage early intervention, and support suicide prevention efforts across all ages.

This project exemplifies the power of storytelling in shaping public understanding and influencing policy. It reinforces MHLS’s role not only as a connector and representative of the voluntary sector, but also as a catalyst for meaningful change in how mental health is understood and supported across our communities.

Living Well

In 2024/25, Derbyshire Voluntary Action successfully completed its commissioned work with the Living Well programme, a transformative initiative aimed at reshaping mental health support through community-led collaboration and the integration of lived experience.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Under the leadership of Ellie Scott, Living Well Coordinator for Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover, the programme saw the successful development and completion of three local Living Well Collaboratives. These collaborative spaces brought together statutory services, voluntary organisations, and individuals with lived experience to co-design solutions that are inclusive, responsive, and rooted in real community need.

Ellie’s work within these collaboratives has been instrumental in ensuring that the voice of lived experience remains central to the Living Well approach. She has championed the contributions of the voluntary and community sector, fostered new and innovative partnerships, and facilitated meaningful dialogue between stakeholders. Her leadership has helped bridge gaps between systems and communities, creating a culture of trust, shared learning, and co-production.

Among the programme’s key achievements was the development of the ‘Waiting Well Pack,’ a co-designed resource now being adopted countywide. This pack offers practical and emotional support to individuals awaiting mental health services, helping them stay connected and informed during a vulnerable period. Alongside this, the ‘Letter of Hope;’ another co-produced initiative provides compassionate guidance to individuals at risk of suicide, offering reassurance and signposting in moments of crisis.

Crucially, and thanks to Ellie, the collaboratives were not only successful in their delivery they were also designed with sustainability in mind. As the commissioned phase ended, Derbyshire Voluntary Action worked to ensure that the relationships, structures, and momentum built through Living Well could continue independently. This legacy approach reflects our commitment to long-term impact and community resilience.

The Living Well programme has demonstrated the power of strategic representation, co-production, and voluntary sector leadership in shaping mental health services that truly reflect the needs and strengths of our communities. It stands as a testament to what is possible when lived experience is not just acknowledged but actively embedded into the heart of system change.

Feeling Connected

The project aims to tackle the adverse impacts upon health caused by loneliness and social isolation across Chesterfield and NE Derbyshire. We are commissioned by a partnership of local authorities, Chesterfield Borough Council, NE Derbyshire District Council and Derbyshire County Council.

The project’s objective is to create a flourishing of sustainable, grassroots, volunteer-led initiatives that bring people together, reducing isolation and loneliness. We support volunteer-organisers by providing mentoring, micro-grants, training, and networking opportunities. Whilst broadly raising awareness of the importance of social connectedness for one’s health, we aim to inspire people to start new initiatives, be they one-off events, regular groups, community projects, or neighbourhood-based activities. Many of the volunteer organisers we support are starting from scratch and prefer to remain ‘informal’. We are the only organisation to offer them support without requiring them to formalise.

During this year we conducted our first survey that aimed to understand the impact upon the attendees on the initiatives we support. The survey found that 85% of attendees found their social circle had grown, 88% agreed that they now had more people to ask for help or advice in daily life. 55% have since joined one or more other social activities.

Most attendees said that their activity was very important to them. Here are some quotes to illustrate that: “Very important, given me motivation to go out and meet people.”

“Without this I would be a hermit never going out. It helps to know other people who also have chronic pain. This group is my life saver! “

“As I live on my own it gets me out the house it keeps my mind active. It is very important as I like to be with people and have made some good friends. They are always there for you.”

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

During this period, we have supported 78 volunteer-organisers and administered 62 micro-grants (between £75 and £300). We have held 11 networking events and delivered 8 training workshops in venues across Chesterfield and NE Derbyshire. We have supported 27 individuals directly to broaden their social circle within our Community Connector Service in NE Derbyshire to provide one- to-one support for individuals at risk of isolation and need help engaging in local activities.

The Hub @ Low Pavement

The Hub is a small community venue, in the center of Chesterfield. We provide a safe and welcoming space for people to meet, engage in activities and access public health focused information. We have a full program of volunteer-led groups, whilst also hosting other organisations so they can engage the public. We provide personal coaching for individuals who want to broaden their network of activities and community venues.

We estimate that 60-70 people come in each week, which includes roughly 45 regular attendees, plus 20 people popping in occasionally or only once, often looking for information.

We estimate that 30% of attendees are brought to the Hub by a professional or key worker, while 70% self-refer, sometimes being recommended by another service. There is a high prevalence of people who have had adverse experiences in their life and/or trauma. They often present with complex psychological needs, low confidence, and selfesteem. There are a lot of neurodivergent attendees, people with a learning disability and people with a brain disorder. Some older adults have found themselves isolated outside of the Hub and attended very regularly.

During the last quarter of this period, we have made significant steps toward re-organising of the way the Hub is run. We have developed a new model with reduces staff time and increases the responsibilities taken by volunteers to run it themselves. All volunteers and the participants of their activity groups have risen to this challenge.

Community Chesterfield: Celebrated Five Years of Impactful Partnership

Community Chesterfield, the award-winning collaboration between Derbyshire Voluntary Action and the University of Derby, marked the successful completion of its fifth and final year. With some remaining funds, the project was able to extend its reach through a period of legacy work in the months that followed.

Over its five-year lifespan, Community Chesterfield consistently exceeded expectations building strong, meaningful relationships with colleagues across the University, initiating new collaborative projects, and creating valuable opportunities for learning and engagement. These connections brought together voluntary and community organisations, researchers, students, and lecturers in ways that enriched all involved.

Although the formal project has now concluded, its legacy continues. The relationships forged and the training and skills support embedded within Derbyshire Voluntary Action remain integral to our ongoing work with community organisation

d. Public benefit

The Directors reaffirm Derbyshire Voluntary Action's contribution to the public benefit:

As a result of Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s aims and actions, a large number of small groups and organisations, directly supporting people with health, wellbeing and social care needs, benefit from:

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

Minimising Harm: Our Commitment to People and the Environment

At Derbyshire Voluntary Action, we recognise two key areas where harm could potentially arise from our activities: harm to people and harm to the environment.

Prioritising People: A Culture of Safety, Support, and Wellbeing:

At Derbyshire Voluntary Action, the safety, wellbeing, and professional development of our team are central to everything we do. We maintain a strong culture of care through comprehensive health and safety and safeguarding policies, ensuring that all staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries are protected and supported in every aspect of our work.

Our commitment goes beyond compliance. All staff receive regular one-to-one supervision, participate in team meetings, and engage in whole-organisation team-building days that strengthen collaboration and morale. Every team member completes accredited training in Mental Health First Aid and Safeguarding Adults, equipping them with the skills to support both colleagues and the communities we serve.

In addition, we provide access to a range of wellbeing resources, including peer support networks and professional counselling services. This holistic approach ensures our team feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive—both personally and professionally.

Environmental Impact and Sustainable Practices:

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, our operations were spread across three sites in Chesterfield, with staff regularly travelling to meetings by car or public transport. Since the pandemic, we have adopted a more sustainable hybrid working model. Most staff now work from home for the majority of the week, attending our single office space only on Thursdays. This shift has significantly reduced travel-related emissions, with most meetings now held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Our use of paper and printing remains minimal, with the exception of essential materials such as posters and printing support provided by the Hub @ Low Pavement. We continue to prioritise digital communication wherever possible.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Environmental Policy guides our efforts to reduce our ecological footprint through practices such as recycling and car sharing. Staff are actively encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible behaviours, ensuring that the positive impact of our work continues to outweigh any potential harm.

In 2020, we proudly signed Plastic Free Chesterfield’s Plastic Free Pledge, reinforcing our commitment to reducing singleuse plastics across all areas of our work.

The Board of Directors is not aware of any other significant risks of harm arising from our activities.

  1. Who are the beneficiaries of Derbyshire Voluntary Action?

The beneficiaries of our actions are:

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

The Trustees have complied with the duty in Section 4 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission.

e. Achievements and performance

Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s achievements in 2024/25 are:

Key Achievements 2024–2025

1. Strategic Representation and Advocacy Derbyshire Voluntary Action continued to provide strong strategic representation for the VCFSE sector across Derbyshire, ensuring the voluntary sector’s voice was embedded in health and care planning. This included active involvement in the Health and Wellbeing Board, Place Alliances, and the VCFSE Alliance. The organisation also led the ‘Save Our Sector’ campaign, advocating against funding cuts and raising awareness of the sector’s vital role.

2. Infrastructure Support and Sector Development Infrastructure support remained central to DVA’s work, helping 371 member organisations access information, funding, training, and strategic guidance. The organisation supported new groups through the Start-Up Grant, administering Health and Wellbeing Grants, and maintaining a refreshed database of health-related community organisations.

3. Successful Rebranding and Website Development DVA launched a refreshed brand identity that reflects its values, purpose, and community focus. Alongside this, a new website was developed to improve accessibility, highlight services, and enhance engagement with members, stakeholders, and the public. The new branding and website have strengthened visibility and created a more cohesive digital presence.

4. Innovative Engagement and Support Across Our Services Throughout the year, Derbyshire Voluntary Action continued to embrace innovative approaches to engaging and supporting both our existing members and new beneficiaries. Our work was delivered through a range of impactful programmes, each tailored to meet the evolving needs of our communities.

5. Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grants DVA administered this winter support initiative, distributing grants to the value of £164,480 across Derbyshire to create inclusive, heated spaces for vulnerable residents to come together in community spaces over the winter months.

6. Led the Save Our Sector campaign

A bold and coordinated response to Derbyshire County Council’s proposed cuts to discretionary grant funding. Derbyshire Voluntary Action mobilised the VCFSE community and wider public, bringing together over 50 affected organisations to highlight the devastating impact the cuts would have on essential VCFSE services. The campaign included a high-profile stakeholder event, widespread communications and strategic advocacy, resulting in 92% of consultation respondents opposing the cuts.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

7. Hosted the inaugural Winter Festival

A vibrant celebration of the voluntary sector’s resilience, creativity, and collective achievements. Held in the heart of Chesterfield, the event brought together local organisations volunteers, and community members for a joyful day of connection, storytelling, and inspiration. Featuring live music, poetry, stalls, and interactive activities, the festival created a powerful space for networking, peer support and recognition, reinforcing the unity and strength of Derbyshire’s VCFSE community during a time of uncertainty.

8. Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS)

MHLS delivered four Voluntary Sector Mental Health Network forums, distributed 57 bulletins, and provided representation on over 20 strategic planning groups. The service supported the development of the mental health Waiting Well Pack and Letter of Hope, both co-produced resources now being adopted countywide.

During the year we initiated development professionally filmed documentary designed to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention. To honour these voices and ensure their stories are told with sensitivity and impact, we partnered with a renowned film crew to produce a high-quality documentary. Filming has now concluded, capturing authentic and moving accounts that highlight the importance of compassion, connection, and early intervention. The documentary, and sections from it, will be widely distributed locally and nationally, serving as a vital resource for education, advocacy, and community engagement.

9. Feeling Connected

We expanded the Feeling Connected programme to encompass all grassroots community engagement work. This included initiatives focused on social connectedness, mental health, supporting our ageing population, front door social prescribing, and our community hub, successfully empowering individuals to take part in and develop lead peer-driven creative activities.

In addition, we continued to deliver highly respected outreach workshops and training events, supporting grassroots action through micro-grants and mentoring, and ran awareness campaigns to tackle loneliness and promote inclusive community connection.

Feeling Connected played a vital role in reducing isolation and enhancing wellbeing across Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire.

10. The Hub @ Low Pavement

The Hub continued to serve as a welcoming town centre community space, hosting volunteer-led groups and providing public health information. A new operational model was introduced, increasing volunteer ownership and sustainability.

11. Active Neighbourhood Pilots

These pilots explored innovative ways to foster community-led action by placing residents at the heart of decisionmaking. Through a co-productive approach, we collaborated with local people to design and deliver initiatives that truly reflected their priorities, from wellbeing walks to neighbourhood events, ensuring relevance, ownership, and long-term sustainability. By empowering residents to lead rather than simply participate, we deepened grassroots engagement and built more resilient, connected communities. The pilots clearly demonstrated the transformative power of co-production in unlocking local potential, strengthening collaboration, and nurturing active citizenship.

12. Living Well Collaboratives

DVA successfully completed its commissioned work with the Living Well programme, facilitating collaboratives in Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover. These spaces embedded lived experience into service design and created sustainable models for ongoing community-led collaboration.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Objectives and activities (continued)

13. Community Chesterfield Legacy Work

14. Communications and Engagement

Financial review

a. Results for the year

Total income for the year was £691,294 (2024: £682,170) and total expenditure was £775,423 (2024: £543,141) giving net expenditure of £84,129 (2024: net income £139,029). Total funds carried forward were £746,421 (2024: £830,550) of which £313,766 (2024: £480,389) were restricted and £432,655 (2024: £350,161) were unrestricted.

b. Reserves policy

The free reserves policy of the charity is to hold reserves equal to approximately 6 months operating expenses in the general fund plus redundancy and running down costs. This would equate to £170,056 at 31 March 2025.

Unrestricted reserves at 31 March 2025 are £432,655 (2024: £350,161) of which £102,000 were designated for upcoming projects and match funding as detailed in note 14 (2024: £117,200). Free reserves at 31 March 2025 were £330,655. The Directors recognise that the actual free reserves will fluctuate from year to year depending on spending due to unforeseen opportunities or circumstances and are mindful of future cost increases and pressures on funding.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action operated 28 restricted funds during the year. The opening balances and any income added to each fund during the year must only be spent for each funds' intended purpose unless the fund grantor approves spending for other purposes. Derbyshire Voluntary Action anticipates that amounts not spent in the year received will be spent in the following year or at the end of the respective project.

c. Risk Management

Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s Board holds a risk register which is regularly reviewed and updated. The principal risks for 2024/25 remain largely unchanged from the previous year:

Continued uncertainty over core funding from statutory partners. With temporary and interim funding arrangements carrying on from year to year, we have limited confidence to make medium and long-term plans for the organisation. Alongside this, although reserves are currently in a strong position, unrestricted deficits are budgeted for 2026 which is a key area of focus for the board.

Funding risks are managed through maintaining strong relationships and networks with our commissioners, continuing to promote and champion the value of the work we do and the key role we play in providing a communications channel between ‘the system’ and ‘the community.’ We continue to proactively seek additional external funding sources for our project work and to diversify our funding sources where possible.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

d. Going concern

The directors have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. These figures show the charity has sufficient cash and reserves to continue in operation for the foreseeable future. The financial statements have therefore been prepared on a going concern basis.

Structure, governance and management

a. Constitution

Derbyshire Voluntary Action is a charity registered with the Charity Commission (No. 1134329) and a Company Limited by Guarantee registered at Companies House (registered in England No. 6956527). It became a dual registered company limited by guarantee and charity on 1 April 2010. Derbyshire Voluntary Action operates independently from 3rd Floor, Dents Chambers, 81 New Square, Chesterfield, S40 1AH.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action is governed by the Memorandum and Articles of Association (Constitution), adopted on 7 April 2009.

b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees

Derbyshire Voluntary Action ‘The Charity’, remains administered by a Board of Directors elected annually at the AGM. The Board at its first meeting thereafter appoints the Chair, Vice-Chair and Treasurer. There is the facility to appoint up to three co-opted members during the year and the Memorandum and Articles of Association states that co-opted members will be chosen to ensure that the Board is representative of the geographic area and of the communities of interest in membership of Derbyshire Voluntary Action. All Directors, whether elected or co-opted, must be full individual or organisation members of Derbyshire Voluntary Action.

Under the terms of the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Board of Directors may delegate any of its powers to one or more sub-committees consisting of members of the Charity to perform any function or duties more conveniently undertaken or carried out by a sub-committee. Derbyshire Voluntary Action has a longstanding sub-committee, consisting of two Board Members and the Chair, which deals with personnel issues.

The Directors seek to maintain a suitable balance of skills and interests among those serving on the Board and may, recruit or co-opt new members if a retirement call or a skill shortfall requires action. Subject to the maximum number allowed.

New Directors receive an Induction Pack, and a face-to-face Induction meeting with the Chief Executive.

Plans for future periods

Looking ahead, Derbyshire Voluntary Action is focused on strengthening the foundations of the VCFSE sector while continuing to innovate, collaborate, and respond to the evolving needs of our communities.

Our future plans include:

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Plans for future periods (continued)

We will actively campaign for long-term infrastructure funding and advocate for the sustainability of our members.

This includes using community insight to push for equal partnership in the co-production of person-centred services, with a strong focus on health inequalities and prevention.

Investing in Capacity and Leadership

Enhancing Strategic Influence and Insight

We will continue to represent the sector across the Integrated Care System and at neighbourhood level, including our role on the Chesterfield Neighbourhood Board, overseeing the allocation of £20 million in regeneration funding. We will also enhance our data and insight capabilities to better evidence impact, inform strategy, and support decision-making.

Building Collaborative Infrastructure

Derbyshire Voluntary Action remains firmly committed to partnership working across infrastructure organisations, recognising that collaboration is key to delivering effective, sustainable support for our communities. We will continue to work towards shared goals that benefit the people of Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and the wider Derby and Derbyshire footprint, reducing duplication, sharing resources, and amplifying collective impact.

Our commitment is to build a more connected and coordinated infrastructure; one that enables organisations to work smarter together, leverages local strengths, and ensures that services are responsive to the real needs of people and communities. By fostering trust, transparency, and shared learning, we aim to create a collaborative environment where innovation thrives, and no community is left behind.

Locally, we will continue to develop an income-generating VCFSE shared space in Chesterfield town centre, creating a vibrant hub for collaboration, visibility, and innovation. Strengthening cross-sector partnerships will remain a priority, ensuring the VCFSE sector is recognised as a key player in shaping local health and wellbeing systems.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action remains committed to championing innovation at the grassroots level, recognising that real change begins within communities themselves. We will continue to nurture and invest in hyper-local community activity, supporting residents and groups to take the lead in shaping solutions that matter to them. This includes fostering new partnerships, encouraging collaborative working, and enabling communities to build their own resilience from the ground up.

Our approach is rooted in the belief that communities thrive when they are empowered, connected, and supported. We will continue to act as a catalyst for community-led innovation, providing the tools, networks, and encouragement needed to turn ideas into action. Whether through micro-grants, peer learning, or place-based development, we are committed to creating the conditions where local energy and creativity can flourish.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Plans for future periods (continued)

As we look to the future, we will also explore new models of community engagement and leadership, ensuring that our support evolves alongside the changing needs of the people and places we serve. This work will remain central to our mission and embedded in everything we do.

By actively listening to individuals and communities, particularly those most affected by health inequalities we ensure that their insights inform priorities, challenge assumptions, and drive meaningful change.

Our approach goes beyond consultation; we advocate for co-production as a standard, where people are not just heard but are equal partners in shaping the services that impact their lives. Through our programmes, partnerships, and strategic representation, we will continue to create platforms for authentic engagement, ensuring that commissioning decisions are grounded in real-world experience and reflect the diverse needs of Derbyshire’s communities.

Through this forward-thinking approach, DVA will continue to be a trusted and responsive infrastructure organisation, supporting a thriving, resilient voluntary sector across Derbyshire.

Statement of Trustees' responsibilities

The Trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial . Under company law, the Trustees must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:

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

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

Julie Dixon Chair Date: 28 November 2025

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Derbyshire Voluntary Action ('the company')

I report to the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year ended 31 March 2025.

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 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:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. 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

  4. 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 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.

Signed: Nicola OSullivan Dated: 02/12/2025 GMT Signer ID: MMITLPRPJQ...

Nicola O'Sullivan FCA DChA

BHP LLP One, Waterside Place Basin Square Brimington Road Chesterfield S41 7FH

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Note
Income from:
Donations and legacies
4
Investments
5
Other income
6
Total income
Expenditure on:
Charitable activities
7
Total expenditure
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
14
Net movement in funds
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Net movement in funds
Total funds carried forward
14		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
124,123
8,280
15
132,418
79,385
79,385
53,033
29,461
82,494
350,161
82,494
432,655		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
555,969
-
2,907
558,876
696,038
696,038
(137,162)
(29,461)
(166,623)
480,389
(166,623)
313,766		 Total
funds
2025
£
680,092
8,280
2,922
691,294
775,423
775,423
(84,129)
-
(84,129)
830,550
(84,129)
746,421		 Total
funds
2024
£
679,620
-
2,550
682,170
543,141
543,141
139,029
-
139,029
691,521
139,029
830,550

The Statement of Financial Activities complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006 and includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

REGISTERED NUMBER: 06956527

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

Note
Current assets
Debtors
11
Investments
12
Cash at bank and in hand
Current liabilities
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
13
Net current assets
Total assets less current liabilities
Total net assets
Charity funds
Restricted funds
14
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
14
General funds
14
Total unrestricted funds
14
Total funds		 41,133
-
783,065
824,198
(77,777)
102,000
330,655		 2025
£
746,421
746,421
746,421
313,766
432,655
746,421		 16,069
170,000
658,339
844,408
(13,858)
117,200
232,961		 2024
£
830,550
830,550
830,550
480,389
350,161
830,550

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

REGISTERED NUMBER: 06956527

BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED) AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

The company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of Companies Act 2006.

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

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

The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by:

Julie Dixon Chair Date:

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DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
Note
Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities
17
Cash flows from investing activities
Interest from investments
Purchase of current asset investments
Disposal of current asset investments
Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities
Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
18		 2025
£
(53,554)
8,280
-
170,000
178,280
124,726
658,339
783,065		 2024
£
226,165
-
(170,000)
-
(170,000)
56,165
602,174
658,339

Page 26

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1. General information

The company is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the Trustees named on page 1. In the event of the company being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the company.

2. Accounting policies

2.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements 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), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy.

The financial statements have been prepared in £ sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest pound.

2.2 Going concern

The directors have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. These figures show the charity has sufficient cash and reserves to continue in operation for the foreseeable future. The financial statements have therefore been prepared on a going concern basis.

2.3 Income

All income is recognised once the company has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.

Grants are included in the Statement of financial activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes but not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance sheet. Where income is received in advance of entitlement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where entitlement occurs before income is received, the income is accrued.

Gifts in kind donated for distribution are included at valuation and recognised as income when they are distributed to the projects. Gifts donated for resale are included as income when they are sold. Donated facilities are included at the value to the company where this can be quantified and a third party is bearing the cost. No amounts are included in the financial statements for services donated by volunteers.

Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service.

Page 27

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.4 Expenditure

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

Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the company's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.

All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT.

2.5 Interest receivable

Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the company; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.

2.6 Taxation

The company is considered to pass the tests set out in Paragraph 1 Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the company is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes.

2.7 Debtors

Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due.

2.8 Cash at bank and in hand

Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account.

2.9 Liabilities and provisions

Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably.

Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the company anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide.

Page 28

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

2. Accounting policies (continued)

2.10 Financial instruments

The company 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.

2.11 Pensions

The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the company to the fund in respect of the year.

2.12 Employee benefits

When employees have rendered services to the charity, short-term employee benefits to which the employees are entitled are recognised at the undiscounted amount expected to be paid in exchange for that service.

2.13 Fund accounting

General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the company and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the company for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Investment income, gains and losses are allocated to the appropriate fund.

3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgment

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Critical accounting estimates and assumptions:

The company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. There are no estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year.

Page 29

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

4. Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted
funds		 Restricted
funds		 Total
funds		 Total
funds
2025 2025 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Active Partners Trust - (10,117) (10,117) 80,000
Chesterfield Borough Council (Fundamental
Training)		 - 1,000 1,000 3,000
Chesterfield Borough Council (Springboard
Service)CBC UKSPF		 - 4,000 4,000 2,976
Chesterfield Borough Council (Building Confidence
Grant)		 - 5,770 5,770 -
Chesterfield Borough Council(FeelingConnected) - 25,000 25,000 -
Chesterfield FC CommunityTrust ANP - - - 17,515
DCC Chesterfield(CommunityChampions) - - - 25,000
DCC(Chesterfield Social Connectedness) - 25,000 25,000 25,000
DCC(Infrastructure) - - - 18,166
DCC(Social Connectedness)CST 23,471 - 23,471 5,305
DCC(Thrive Evaluation) - - - 11,340
DCC(Warm and WelcomingSpaces) - 150,000 150,000 1,000
DCHS(returningfundingfor MSK Link worker) - - - (40,030)
DCHS(Charities CommunityHub) - 92,927 92,927 15,914
DerbyCityCouncil(QualityConversations) - - - 50,000
DVA Small Grants - 10,000 10,000 10,000
Erewash Borough Council(Warm Spaces) - 16,280 16,280 -
Erewash Voluntary Action (Living Well
Coordinator)		 - 46,000 46,000 46,000
Erewash VoluntaryAction(Mental Health Grants) 1,000 3,689 4,689 -
National LotteryCommunityFund - - - 116,674
NED District Council(CommunityChampion) - - - 25,000
NED District Council(Inclusive Community) - 24,416 24,416 24,423
NED District Council (Inclusive Community
Buddy)		 - 19,592 19,592 11,669
NED District Council(Social Connectedness) - 27,500 27,500 45,000
NHS Derbyand Derbyshire ICB(ANPproject) - 40,000 40,000 18,705
NHS Derbyand Derbyshire ICB(Infrastructure) 79,661 - 79,661 76,892
balance c/f 104,132 481,057 585,189 589,549

Page 30

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

4. Income from donations and legacies (continued)

Unrestricted
funds		 Restricted
funds		 Total
funds		 Total
funds
2025 2025 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
balance b/f 104,132 481,057 585,189 589,549
NHS Derbyand Derbyshire ICB(MHLS) - 30,547 30,547 29,486
NHS Derbyand Derbyshire(Leeds) 19,991 - 19,991 -
NHS Derbyand Derbyshire ICB(Signposting) - 2,789 2,789 2,692
Other - 5,226 5,226 9,996
Public Health Grants(C,NED & B) - 32,000 32,000 37,897
ThinkingPlace(Town Plan) - 4,350 4,350 -
Universityof Derby - - - 10,000
Total 2025 124,123 555,969 680,092 679,620
Total 2024 100,363 579,257 679,620

5. Investment income

Bank interest Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
8,280
8,280		 Total
funds
2025
£
8,280
8,280		 Total
funds
2024
£
-
-

Page 31

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

6. Other income

Rental Income
Other income
Total 2025
Total 2024		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
-
15
15
29		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
2,256
651
2,907
2,521		 Total
funds
2025
£
2,256
666
2,922
2,550		 Total
funds
2024
£
950
1,600
2,550

Page 32

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7. Charitable activities

Unrestricted
funds		 Restricted
funds		 Total
funds		 Total
funds
2025 2025 2025 2024
£ £ £ £
Payroll costs 1,713 - 1,713 1,421
Bank charges 413 13 426 397
Consultancy 978 10,000 10,978 3,207
Contract work* 389 83,641 84,030 7,982
Experts byexperience - 180 180 2,926
Grantspaid out 10,000 226,129 236,129 96,593
Insurance 2,786 - 2,786 2,596
IT costs 8,683 4,992 13,675 18,438
Marketing 23,141 2,117 25,258 20,864
Postage 21 226 247 108
Premises costs 8,043 2,387 10,430 21,431
Printing - 915 915 688
Professional fees 3,820 - 3,820 4,158
Room hire and catering 906 14,034 14,940 4,159
Salaries,NI andpension 112,059 236,295 348,354 345,619
Stationery 113 568 681 1,135
Subscriptions 2,199 1,340 3,539 4,184
Sundries 604 9,247 9,851 1,697
Telephone 504 846 1,350 1,776
Training - 3,240 3,240 1,135
Travel 861 2,020 2,881 2,627
Management fees and overhead allocation** (97,848) 97,848 - -
Total 2025 79,385 696,038 775,423 543,141
Total 2024 51,656 491,485 543,141

** Relates to apportionment of management and running costs charged to the restricted fund projects as agreed by funders.

Page 33

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

8. Independent examiner's remuneration

2025 2024
£ £
Fees payable to the company's independent examiner for the independent
examination of the company's annual accounts 3,820 3,638

9. Staff costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes		 2025
£
305,302
28,163
14,889
348,354		 2024
£
307,434
24,843
13,342
345,619

The average number of persons employed by the company during the year was as follows:

2025 2024
No. No.
13 14

No employee received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in either year.

The total amount of employee benefits received by key management personnel is £78,956 (2024: £69,198). The charity considers its key management personnel to comprise of the Chief Executive Officer and the Business Innovations Manager.

Page 34

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

10. Trustees' remuneration and expenses

During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2024 - £NIL).

During the year ended 31 March 2025, no expenses were reimbursed or paid directly to Trustees (2024 - £nil).

11. Debtors

Prepayments and accrued income
Grants receivable		 2025
£
3,976
37,157
41,133		 2024
£
4,173
11,896
16,069

12. Current asset investments

2025 2024
£ £
Unlisted investments - 170,000

13. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income		 2025
£
63,800
5,112
4,893
3,972
77,777		 2024
£
2,424
3,829
3,061
4,544
13,858

Page 35

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14. Statement of funds

Statement of funds - current year
Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Hub sustainability
Branding
New project development
Match funding
Capital replacement
External fundraising support
General funds
General Funds
Total Unrestricted funds		 Balance at 1
April 2024
£
50,000
22,200
20,000
20,000
5,000
-
117,200
232,961
350,161		 Income
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
132,418
132,418		 Expenditure
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
(79,385)
(79,385)		 Transfers
in/out
£
-
(22,200)
(5,000)
-
-
12,000
(15,200)
44,661
29,461		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
50,000
-
15,000
20,000
5,000
12,000
102,000
330,655
432,655

Page 36

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14. Statement of funds (continued)

Restricted funds
Active Neighbourhood Projects
Living Well
The Hub @ Low Pavement
Public Health
Quality Conversations
CBC UKSPF
Charities Together Fund
Warm Spaces
Mental Health Liason Service
Community Chesterfield
Moments in Time
Social Connectedness
Bowel Cancer Engagement
Community Champions
NED UKSPF Inclusive Community
Living Well Stories
Fundamental Training
Thrive Evaluation
Other Funds
Total of funds		 Balance at 1
April 2024
£
92,339
13,104
580
8,652
37,771
2,643
13,259
-
2,430
99,947
-
52,349
21,477
76,616
16,683
17,892
3,000
11,340
10,307
480,389
830,550		 Income
£
29,883
-
9,513
32,000
-
4,000
92,927
166,280
30,547
-
1,599
86,770
-
-
44,008
46,000
1,000
-
14,349
558,876
691,294		 Expenditure
£
(81,439)
-
(4,739)
(31,632)
(2,586)
(7,830)
(87,543)
(164,193)
(32,271)
(69,013)
(9,895)
(58,769)
-
(40,001)
(44,957)
(39,337)
(2,313)
(3,899)
(15,621)
(696,038)
(775,423)		 Transfers
in/out
£
-
(13,104)
-
-
(1,400)
1,187
-
-
42,488
(30,934)
10,600
51,163
-
(36,615)
(15,734)
(24,555)
(1,687)
(7,441)
(3,429)
(29,461)
-		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
40,783
-
5,354
9,020
33,785
-
18,643
2,087
43,194
-
2,304
131,513
21,477
-
-
-
-
-
5,606
313,766
746,421

Page 37

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14. Statement of funds (continued)

Statement of funds - prior year

Unrestricted funds
Designated funds
Hub sustainability
Branding
New project development
Match funding
Capital replacement
General funds
Unrestricted funds
Total Unrestricted funds		 Balance at
1 April 2023
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
301,775
301,775		 Income
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
100,392
100,392		 Expenditure
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
(51,656)
(51,656)		 Transfers
in/out
£
50,000
22,200
20,000
20,000
5,000
117,200
(117,550)
(350)		 Balance at
31 March
2024
£
50,000
22,200
20,000
20,000
5,000
117,200
232,961
350,161

Page 38

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

14. Statement of funds (continued)

Restricted funds
Active Neighbourhood Projects
Living Well
The Hub @ Low Pavement
Public Health
Quality Conversations
CBC UKSPF
Charities Together Fund
Warm Spaces
Derbyshire Cancer Steering Group
Mental Health Liason Service
Community Chesterfield
Moments in Time
Social Connectedness
Bowel Cancer Engagement
Community Champions
NED UKSPF Inclusive Community
Living Well Stories
Fundamental Training
Thrive Evaluation
Other Funds
Total of funds		 Balance at
1 April 2023
£
-
-
6,981
39,087
-
-
-
9,306
1,718
3,831
116,295
41,662
51,457
26,627
67,224
-
15,000
-
1,042
9,516
389,746
691,521		 Income
£
116,221
46,000
4,814
37,897
51,400
2,976
15,914
-
-
29,486
129,168
(40,030)
70,000
-
50,000
36,092
7,500
3,000
11,340
10,000
581,778
682,170		 Expenditure
£
(23,882)
(32,896)
(11,215)
(68,332)
(13,629)
(3,357)
(2,655)
(9,306)
-
(30,887)
(145,516)
-
(69,811)
(6,868)
(40,608)
(19,409)
(4,608)
-
-
(8,506)
(491,485)
(543,141)		 Transfers
in/out
£
-
-
-
-
-
3,024
-
-
(1,718)
-
-
(1,632)
703
1,718
-
-
-
-
(1,042)
(703)
350
-		 Balance at
31 March
2024
£
92,339
13,104
580
8,652
37,771
2,643
13,259
-
-
2,430
99,947
-
52,349
21,477
76,616
16,683
17,892
3,000
11,340
10,307
480,389
830,550

Page 39

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15. Summary of funds

Summary of funds - current year

Designated funds
General funds
Restricted funds
Summary of funds - prior year
Designated funds
General funds
Restricted funds		 Balance at 1
April 2024
£
117,200
232,961
480,389
830,550
Balance at
1 April 2023
£
-
301,775
389,746
691,521		 Income
£
-
132,418
558,876
691,294
Income
£
-
100,392
581,778
682,170		 Expenditure
£
-
(79,385)
(696,038)
(775,423)
Expenditure
£
-
(51,656)
(491,485)
(543,141)		 Transfers
in/out
£
(15,200)
44,661
(29,461)
-
Transfers
in/out
£
117,200
(117,550)
350
-		 Balance at 31
March 2025
£
102,000
330,655
313,766
746,421
Balance at
31 March
2024
£
117,200
232,961
480,389
830,550

Page 40

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15. Summary of funds (continued)

The purpose of the restricted funds are:

Active Neighbourhood Projects: This funding supports Active Neighbourhood Pilots in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire, aiming to increase walking levels through a systems approach. By engaging communities in the coproduction of solutions, the project provides valuable insights and learning to enhance the pilot’s delivery.

Living Well: Living Well Derbyshire focuses on helping local residents recover from mental health issues within the community, aiming to provide more accessible support for mental health and wellbeing. The funding supports the coordination of two multi-agency collaboratives in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire. These collaboratives aim to develop a multi-agency approach to reforming mental health services, with a strong emphasis on including lived experiences.

The Hub @ Low Pavement: Derbyshire Voluntary Action’s community hub in central Chesterfield. The hub is a vibrant community space designed to bring people together. It hosts various groups and activities and is committed to being inclusive, and a welcoming environment for the public and volunteer-led community groups. Additionally, the Hub is the proud home of our Feeling Connected Project.

Public Health: This small grants scheme, administered by Derbyshire Voluntary Action, provides financial support to voluntary and community groups. The funds enable these groups to run projects and activities that align with Derbyshire County Council Public Health’s priorities at a local level across Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and Bolsover.

Quality Conversations: This funding supports one-on-one conversations with patients on Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s gastro and orthopaedic waiting lists. A ‘quality conversation’ is a well-established, person-centred approach that encompasses general communication skills and specific health coaching techniques. It aims to understand the factors underpinning a person’s health and wellbeing.

CBC UKSPF- This funds was for a small amount of funding to contribute to the salary of a member of staff working in the Hub to support and ‘Springboard’ individuals who accessed the Hub.

Charities Together Fund: Funded by NHSE Charities Together, the Derbyshire Community Hubs Network aims to create a peer support and learning network for community hubs across Derby City and Derbyshire. These activities support the creation, operation, and growth of community-led safe spaces for wellbeing.

Warm Spaces: Derbyshire County Council has provided funds to Derbyshire Voluntary Action for a Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grant, a free and warm, space for people across Derbyshire who are struggling to heat their homes this winter.

Mental Health Liaison Service: Commissioned by the Derby and Derbyshire ICB, this service provides essential infrastructure through specialised training and support, strategic representation, and a collaborative platform. It brings together voluntary agencies delivering mental health services to discuss common interests and influence strategic planning in mental health.

Community Chesterfield: is a collaborative partnership between Derbyshire Voluntary Action and the University of Derby. This initiative connects the resources of the University of Derby Chesterfield with the voluntary and community sector in Chesterfield, truly “Putting the UNI in Community.” Our mission is to strengthen the local community and the health and social care sector. This community-led project is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.

Page 41

Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15. Summary of funds (continued)

Moments in Time: A DVA project to produce a documentary film raising awareness and reducing stigma around suicide.

Social Connectedness: Public Health funding supports our ‘Feeling Connected’ project, a collaborative initiative led by Derbyshire Voluntary Action. This project aims to combat loneliness and social isolation in North East Derbyshire and Chesterfield by implementing a Social Connectedness Action Plan. It enhances local strategies for fostering social connections, bringing people together, and developing a confident, capable, and supportive network of community builders passionate about creating connection and belonging.

Bowel Cancer Engagement: awareness-raising campaign of signs and symptoms of bowel cancer, and importance of attending screening; with focused engagement on the ground in target communities with greatest health inequalities and lowest uptake of screening.

NED UKSPF Inclusive Community: UKSPF funding supports people across North East Derbyshire in connecting with their local community and social activities. This project enhances the Feeling Connected initiative by directly assisting individuals in NEDDC wards who feel lonely and isolated. It aims to empower residents with the confidence to attend local groups and activities, thereby reducing social isolation. Additionally, it grows community activists and provides participants with extra support, training, and social events.

Living Well Stories: This funding supports quality conversations with individuals experiencing poor mental health, developing system learning and insight.

Fundamental Training: This was for a small amount of funding from CBC for the Feeling Connected team to facilitate workshops run by the CBC.

Thrive Evaluation: funding to evaluate the effectiveness of the Thrive Children and Young People’s Social Prescribing project.

DVA Small Grant: funding provided by NHS Derby and Derbyshire CCG via its Service Level Agreement to enable DVA to offer its ‘DVA Small Grant Scheme’ for small health-related voluntary groups working in North Derbyshire.

Designated funds: This funding supports various needs, including capital replacement, external fundraising suuport, new project development, match funding and the sustainability of our community hub.

Transfers between funds

Transfers this year of £29,461 were made to from restricted funds into unrestricted funds in respect of projects

which are completed and where conditions of contracts have been fulfilled, as approved by the DVA board. Transfers of £15,200 were made from designated to unrestricted funds to release all the Branding fund and some

of the new project development and to establish the external fundraising support fund. Other transfers

During the year, a number of transfers were made within the restricted funds. These transfers were undertaken as part of a year-end review to ensure that funds were correctly allocated to the appropriate projects and to improve clarity in financial reporting. The transfers were administrative in nature only, and all expenditure has been applied in accordance with the respective funders’ conditions.

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Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

16. Analysis of net assets between funds

Analysis of net assets between funds - current year

Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Total
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year
Current assets
Creditors due within one year
Total		 Unrestricted
funds
2025
£
510,432
(77,777)
432,655
Unrestricted
funds
2024
£
364,019
(13,858)
350,161		 Restricted
funds
2025
£
313,766
-
313,766
Restricted
funds
2024
£
480,389
-
480,389		 Total
funds
2025
£
824,198
(77,777)
746,421
Total
funds
2024
£
844,408
(13,858)
830,550

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

Net (expenditure)/income for the period (as per Statement of Financial Activities)
Adjustments for:
Interest received
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Increase/(decrease) in creditors
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities		 2025
£
(84,129)
(8,280)
(25,064)
63,919
(53,554)		 2024
£
139,029
-
92,979
(5,843)
226,165

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Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8

DERBYSHIRE VOLUNTARY ACTION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

18. Analysis of cash and cash equivalents

Cash in hand
Total cash and cash equivalents		 2025
£
783,065
783,065		 2024
£
658,339
658,339

19. Analysis of changes in net debt

Cash at bank and in hand
Liquid investments		 At 1 April
2024
£
658,339
170,000
828,339		 Cash flows
£
124,726
(170,000)
(45,274)		 At 31 March
2025
£
783,065
-
783,065

20. Related party transactions

There are no related party transactions during the period (2024: £nil).

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Document ID: bf65b83e709ad66344d90ed105c9afdb455ce96fedeef0a9872691a1ab3769f8