Company registration number.. 06706212
Charity registration number= 1135828
The Friendship Circle (UK)
(A company limited by syuarantee)
Annual Report and Financial Sialernents
for the Year Ended 31 December 2024

The Friendship Clrcle (UK)
Contents
Reference and Administrative Details
Trustees, Rcport
2to9
Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities
10
Independent Examinels Report
Sialement of Financial Activities
12
Balance Sh¢et
13
Notes to the Financial Statements
14to21

The Friendshfip Clrcle (UK)
Reference and Administrative Details
Trustees
Rabbi Anthony Joel Jaffe
Rabbi David Jaffe
Mr Philip Pink
Mr Tiniothy Dempsey
Mr Jercmy Coleman
Mrs Ziona Handler
PrlnclpAI Offlce
72 Singleton Road
Salford
M7 4LU
Reglstered Offlce
Suite 5. 4th Floor
3 Universal Square
Devonshire Street North
Manchcster
M126JH
CompAny ReglstrAdon Number
06706212
Charlty Reglstratlon Number
1135828
Bankers
Royal Bank of Scotland
ALTRINCHAM
Bolton Cusiomcr Service Centre
PO Box 2027 Parklands
De Havilland Way
Honvi¢h
BL6 4YU
Independent Examlner
Gordon Levy BA. FCA
Chartered Accountant
Gordon Levy Limited
Suite 5. 4th Floor
3 Universal Square
Devonshire Strcet North
Manchcstcr, M12 6JH
Page I

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Trustees, Report
The trustees. who arc directors or company secretary for the purposcs of company law, present the annual report
logeiher with Ihc financial statements of the charitable company for Ihe year ended 31 December 2024.
Reference and administrative details
Reference athd adtninistrative detsils are shown in the schedule of members of the board and professional
advisers on pa¥¢ l of the financial statements.
Trustees
The trustees who served the chariry during the period were as follows..
Rabbi Anthony Joel Jaffe
Rabbi David Jaffe
Mr Philip Pink
Mr Tiniothy Dempsey
Mr Jeremy Coleman
Mrs Ziona Handler
Structure* govern&nee and man4%ement
Naiure ofgovernlng dncumenÉ
Memorandiim and Articles of Association incorporated 24 September 2008 as amended by special resolution
registered at Companies House on 12 FebNary 2012.
Recruilnient and appoinlnient oftruslees
Appointment by Trust¢¢s
Organisalional slruclure
Company limited by guarantee
Page 2

The Friendshlp Cfircle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Objectives and aCtI￿tIeS
Objec¢s and aims
Summary of the Objects of the Charity as set out in the governing docuinent
Object I
To proniore, for the benefit of the inl)abitants of Greater Manchester and thc surrounding area the provision of
facilities for recreation or other leisure time occupation of individuals who have need of such facilities by reason
of theiT youth. age, inflrmity or disablement, financial hardship or social and economic circumstanccs or for the
public al large in the interests of social welfare and with Ihc objccl of improving the condition of lifc of Ihc said
inhabitants.
Object 2
To promote ¥en¢rdl charitable purposes for Ihe benefit of the Community of Greater Manchestcr and the
Su￿ound]ng area, and to provide relief from financial hardship and social andlor economic disadvantage and to
advance the cducation of its residents of all ages and in particular lo provide opporwnilies for the
aforetnentioned re%idenls to participate fully in the life of ihe comn)unity in ways which address and alleviare
social and economic disadvantage.
Page 3

The Frfiendship Circle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Mission Statement
The Friendship Circle's mission is io..
Enhance the lives of Jewish People with Disabilities through empowering, encouraging and facilitating..
Friendship
Social inclusion, a sensc of belonging & integrltion into thc community
Engagement with Jewish life and practice
Maximising their contribuiion to society
- Ac¢ess lo opportunity
This is achieved through providing opportunities irt..
Spott. fitness, healih and wellbeing
Social & recreational
Skills & hobbies
Self- advo¥a¢y
Teen provision
Jewish life & observance
Communiry integration
- One to one buddy programme
Eniotional and practical support
Volunle¢rin8
Disability eduLalion
Employment
Demographlcs
The Friendship Circle provides support io children and adults with mild to moderate learning disabilities,
including conditions such as Down Syndrome, Autism, and physical disabilities like cerebral palsy.
Currently, we have 183 members who benefit from our programmes. Geographieally, 560/0 of our members
reside in Prestwich, 8th/0 in WhitefieldlBury, 280/0 in Salfordlcrumpsall, with the remaining memb¢rs living in
other areas of Manchest¢r.
Our members, ages range from 7 to 88 years, with the largest age group being between 26 and 50, representing
500/0 of our beneficiaries. The remaining members are evenly distributrd a¢ross three age categories.. children
(0-18), post-teens {19-25), and individuals aged 51 and over.
Page 4

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Chief Executive Officer Statement
This year the charity has concentrated on strengthening our core services. expanding our reach, and maintaining
financial siability in a challenging economic environment.
Weekly activities, creative classcs, fitncss sessions. and inclusive ouiings have grown in variety and have seen
increased participation and engagement. The launch of lh¢ Girls Teen Club, cxpansion of our Disability
Education Programme, and the success of our first Open Mic Night have further empowered our members and
raised communiry awareness.
We have taken deliberate steps to strengthen operations by recruiting new staff into the programme Icam as wcll
as outsourcing our HR function. Th¢se changes allow the tcam to focus mor¢ fully on service delivery while
ensuring wc rcrnain compliant and w¢ll mana¥ed.
Jewish life continues to be a key part of our programme, with consistent activities around Shabbat and Yom
Tov, synagogue partnersl)ips, and home-based support for members unable io attend in person. Our efforts io
build community connections and reducc i501ation remain a high prioriry.
On the financial side, we have mpAintained a stable position while managing rising costs. Thc success of our
nialch-fijnded crowdfunding campaign was a major acl)ievement. signifiLantly increasing both income and
donor engagement. We continue to plan Care￿IlY for the year ahead, especially in light of expected cost
increases, coupled with a ¢hallenging fundraising climate.
Looking forward. we will relaunch our Employment Scheme with a more targeted approach. ￿rther expand our
teen provision, and deliver a landmark Birthright volunieering trip to Israel, all reinforcing our ongoing
commiinienl io providing Meaning￿1, life affirniing oppominities for our n)en)bers.
l extend my deepest thanks lo our staff, voluntcers, donors, and trustees. Your collective support continues to
makc The Friendship Circle a trnly transforniarive force.
Page 5

The Friendship Clrcle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Programme Updgte
The focus of The Friendship Circle's programme (cam this year has been on fos*ring organic grO￿th and
ensuring the sustainability of ow services. To strengthen our team and further support our operations, we
welcomed two new staff members al the end of last year. These additions have already proven invaluable in
etthancing our capacity to deliver our wide-ranging aciivities.
Programme Overvlew
Our weekly activities and classes are carefully designed to cater lo diverse interests and tastes. ensuring broad
appeal across our membership base. These activirics spai) a variety of areas, from arts and creative NNTiting to
fitncss-focused progranmnes, such as football, dance. and yoga. Among these, our arts-based classes (art,
singing> and creative writing} have proven to be the most popular, with an average allendancc of16 members
per session.
The teani continuously faces the challenge of keeping members engaged, and we are comrnilted to refreshing
our offerings regularly to maintain inleresi. This year, we introduced ex¢iLin8 a¢liviiies such as Beekeeping and
Axe Throwing, which have been well received by participants. Parties and outings are well loved, altraeiing 50
members or more.
Approximatcly 400/0 of our members attend weekly, with a dedicatcd group of individuals al￿ndIng ai leasi
tliree times a week. For many of these members, The Friend%hip Circle provides a much_needed sense of
purpose and direction. En8ag¢menr has notably increased this year as we encourage our members lo slep out of
their conifort zones, take on new challenges. and embrace personal growth. all of which foster greater
self-confidenc¢.
Key Acblevements
Glrls Teen Club: Building on the success of the Boys Teen Club, which began in 2018, we launched the Girls
Teen Club in 2023. This initiative has successfiilly broubihi together young girls with disabilities and their peers,
offering a platforni for social inieraction, personal development, and friendship. The weekly sessions, which
currently cater to 12 8irls, have been well_received by both the pai'ticipants and their families, wilh par¢nls
reporting significant improvem¢nts in rheir daughters, confid¢nce and well-being.
D15ablllty Educatlon In Schools Programme: This initiative continues ￿ thrive within Manchesler's Jewish
Primary Schools. With five schools now participating-one of which joined this year-the programme encoiirages
children lo reflect on issues of disabiliry and inclusion, challenging societal stereotypes. The activc involvement
of The Friendship Circle members in these sessions helps to create a lasting impact, beneficing both the students
and the beneficiaries.
Engagement In Jewlsh Llfe: The Friendship Circle's commitment to Jewish lif¢ and learning remains at the
heart of our mission. During cvcry Yorntov, we offer a full programmc of activit1¢5 that allow members 10
connect with key Ye￿￿sh traditions. Our steadfast dedication ensui'es that no onc is alone during these important
times. For example, during Chanukah, we hosted nightly activities and arranged for volunteers to visit 80
niembers al home lo light the menorah together. Wc also facilitated sha￿d Shabbat scrvices with Heaton Park
and The Shrubberies Synagogues and held a special Havdalah ceremony with South Manchester Synagogues.
furthcr strengthening our sense of community.
Yomtov Paeks: In addition to in-person activities, we provide Yorntov Packs to all members, ensuriThg that even
those unable to attcnd cvcnts in person feel the wamiih and support of The Friendship Circle during these
special times.
One to One Buddy Programme: Finding matches for our on¢-tO-one buddy scheme remains an ongoing
challenge due to the high level of cotnmitment required from volunteers. However, impressively, the numbers
grcw by 23Q/o in 2024.
Page 6

The Friendship Cirele (UK)
Trustees, Report
Incluslve Travel Opportunltles: A rnajor highlight of this year was our 2-day ovemight trip to London, where
15 members and volunteers visited landmarks such as Camden. Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace. as well
as enjoying a personalized tour of the Houses of Parliatnent. These fully supported and inclusivc trips provide
lasting memories and experiences for our members.
Open Mic Nlght.. Wc hosted our firsl-ever Opcn Mic Night in conjunction with our 'Stories and Strides"
crearive ￿Tl[lng workshop sessions. This event, attended by nearly l 00 people. provided a powerful plaiforni for
self-expression through music. poctry, dnd storyielling, helping participants to boosi their Confidence and
self_esleem.
Fltness and Wellbeing Programme: Our filncss and wellbeing programme has expanded this ycar to include
activities that enhance members, physical, mental, and emotional health. These sessions covercd a range of
important topics, includin8 sexual health, menial health, stress management. and mindfulncss.
Support During the COSt￿r-Llv1ng Crtsls: With the support of a grant from Bury Council. we were able to
run a series of Drop-ln Surgeries, providing practical assistance to our members in navigating the challenges
posed by the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Member5hlp Growth: Over the course of the year, 13 new members have joined The Friendship Cir¢lc, many
of wliom live indcpendenily in the community and receive little or no support from other serviLes. Additionally.
our teen provision has Seen significant gromrth. reinforcing the importanee of our service5 for this demographic.
Volunteerlng and Communlty Integratlon: Volurtleerin¥ is a cornersione of The Friendship Circle's
operations. We welcomed 32 new volunteers in 2024, mostly through referrals and cornmunity nettvorking.
further strengtlicning our presence and Credibility within the local comniunity. The Friendship Circle's volunteer
nenvork encompasses all generations. We actively promote teenage volunteering and 240/0 of our volunteers are
undei. 20. 240/0 are between the ages of 31 & 51 and 210/0 are over 60. This l)ighli81)ts th¢ far-r¢aching impact the
charity has in the community.
Goals for the Future
Employment S¢heme Relaunch: In 2022, we launched an Einployment Scheme, successfvlly placing 10
beneficiaries in employment. However, long-temi job retention and suppon proved challenging. This year, w¢
will relaunch the schcme, adopting a more person•centred approach rhat aligns job opportunities with each
individual's strcngths, aspirntions, and necds. While the numbers will start small, we anticipate gradual growth
as we rcfine our appro&ch and increase the resources available for job coaching and support.
Safeguardlng Revlew: W¢ have initiaied a comprehensive review of our safeguarding processes and
proLedures lo ensure they remain robusL compliant, and fit for purpose. This process will continue throughout
2025.
Blrtbrlght Volunteerlng Trlp: A landmark event for the organisation ivill be our fully accessible Birthright
volunteering trip to 15fdel, aimed al mcmbers aged 21-45. This trip will allow our members to engage with the
Jewish homeland and its people whilc making meaningful contributions ￿ the community.
Teen Club Expanslon: We plan to extend the rcach of our Teen Club, with additiorkal engagement initiatives
for farnilies and also hope to sel up a new club for the 18-25-year-olds. as a bridge io our adult provision.
Shabbat Together: Wc aim to expand our Shabbat Together programme, engoging more synagogues and
fostering greater community unity through shared Shabbat experiences.
We look forward to continuing our work and expanding the impact of The Friendship Circle as we strive to offer
lifc-changing oppOr￿nitIeS for individuals with disabilities in our community.
Page 7

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Flnanclxl Revlew
The Friendship Circle has maintained strong financial stability throughout a challenging and unpredictable
economic environment. Despite rising costs, parlicularly in staffing and resources, our disciplined financial
management has ensured the charity's long-lemi financial security.
Flnanclml Management and Strategic Planning
Our financial health has been upheld through tight budgetary control, regular reviews of cash flow forecasts, and
careful financial planning. Trustees continuously evaluate the charity'5 short-, medium-. and long-term
objectives in relation to financial planning, ensuring that all actions serve the best interests of the organisation
and its beneficiaries while remaining aligned with our broader mission. In instances of exceptional spending
outside regular operational costs, systems and checks are in place to manage fvnds approprialcly? cnsurin8
prudent financial stewardship and due diligence.
Expendlture Overvlew
In 2024. total expenditure was £535,839, compared to £478.907 in 2023. A significant poriion of this increase is
attributable to staff costs, a5 Staff are central ro delivering our services. To maintain (he highest service
provision, two new staff mcmbers were recNited in late 2023, bolstering our programme delivery. Additionally.
a new fundraising ieam member was hired to help meet our ¥rowin¥ fundraising targets. The charity also faced
substantial rises in insurance and electiicity costs. Furth¢miore, we outsourccd our HR function lo a professional
provider to enswc compliance with poliLies and procedures while enabling the management team to focus on
their core responsibilities.
Income Overvlew
The Friendship Circle generated a total income of £620.945 in 2024 (2023.. £444,827). A highlight of this period
wa5 our highly successful online 'match-￿nded" crowdfunding ¢ampai8n in Sepleiiiber, which raised almost
£415,000. Nearly half of this inconie came from OUT top-tier donors, who generously agreed to match
contributions during the cainpaign. On the day of the evenr alone, we raised £205.000. This campaign
significantly expanded our fundraising reach across Manchester and beyond.
We received tremetidous communal supporti particularly froin local Jewish schools and synagogues, who helped
build a solid foundation for the ¢ainpaigi)'s success. Our loyal volunteers also playcd an instrurnental role in
driving the campaign and maximizing lis impact in the community. An encouraging result of the canipaign was
that 350/0 of donations came from new donors, indicating a growing base of supporters for the charity.
In addition lo the ci'owdfunding campaign, the chariiy raised funds through a variety of challenge evertis and
donations from individuals, mtlny of whoni coniribuled in celebration of significant milesloncs such as 'big
birthdays., Wc also rcceived smaller but valuable contributions from a small group of donois with standing
orders. Grant funding in 2024 came from Bury Council and, mosi significantly. from the Lortery Fund, which
supported our Skills for Life programme.
Reserves and Future Plxnnlng
The chariiy's reserves policy iargels maintaining res¢rYes equal lo 4-6 months of operational expenditure. While
we ended the year with reserves above this thrget, Ihc approved budget for 2025 forccasts a deficit of £127,000.
We expect that, as the fundraising Cyclc progresses. our reserves will retym to their nornial levels in line with
our policy.
Trustees acknowledge the forecasted imbalan¢e betwecn income and expenditure in 2025. However, the
chariry's fvndraising strategy is designed to address this gap, with a strong focus on increasing ￿ndraising
income. Given the unpredictable nature of voluntary donations. we have tsken a cautious approach in
forecasting the income for 2025? particularly following the success of our major crowdfundinby campvAign.
Page 8

The Friendshlp Circle (UK)
Trustees, Report
Revenue Dlverslflcatlon and Sustalnablllt),
Nearly one-lhird of The Friendship Circle's income is derived from our loyal patrons, and we are decply
grateful for their ongoing commirmeni to tlie cause. The remaining fijnds come from smaller donations withiTh
the conimunity, Theneraied through various fundraising events and sponsored challenges.
To ensure the continu¢d sustainability of our services, wc are dedicated to nurturing relationships with our
high-lcvcl donors. We aim to demonstrate the ongoing impact of their contributions, fostering an extended
commitnient through our Patron Scheme. Furtherniore, we will coniinue ￿ engage with our coryorate partners,
offering theni the opportuniry lo sponsor programmes and invest in the charity. We are also exploring new ways
to engage corporare parthers, expanding our reacli and support base.
Additionally, we aim (o s(rcngthcn our relationship with lower-level donors by growing our portfolio of
siandin8 orders. We also plan 10 iniroducc new fundraising avenues lo suppori Ihe charity's mission and cnsurc
its financial healih in the years lo come.
Key Upcomlng Fundralslng Events
One of the key fundraising highlights of 2025 will be our flagship Inclusive Fashion Show. We are eager to
build on the success of prcvious years, further developing the event to cngage the Community, attract new
supporters, and raise SI￿lfICant funds for our programmes. Wc also plan to host a series of fundraisin8
'Evenings with Friends" lo generate fvrther income alongside irialling a fundraising padel tournament. This
events, along with planned challenges, will be crucial in bridging ihe gap bctwcen our projccied inconie and
expendimre for the upcoming year. "Tlie Art of Nature" art exhibition, featuring artwork from our weekly art
classes, will serve as an cxcellcnl opportunity to enhance our profile wiihin the com]nunity.
Expendlture 2025
Costs are expect¢d lo rise further in 2025 with the proposed govemmental in¢reas¢s in utilities and PAYE.
Additional staff are also needed to support the 18-25 teen provision. However. despite these increases, The
Friendship Circle remains committed to diversifying ils income Sireanis and enhancinu its financial
sustainabiliry. By continuing to niirture relationships wilh our donors, exploring new fundraising avenues, and
focusing on prudent financial management, we are confident that Ihe charity will continue to fulfil its mission
and provide essential services io those in need.
Reappolntment of Independent examlner
Gordon Levy, Chartered Accountant, has been re-appointed as independcnt cxaminer foc the ensuing year.
The annual report was approved by Ihe tThsiees of the chariry on 2 September 2025 and signed on its behalf by..
Mr Philip Pink
Trustee
Mr Timothy Dempsey
Trnstee
Page 9

The Frlendship Circle (UK)
Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors of The Friendship Circle (UK) for the purposes of company law) are
responsible for preparing the trustees, report and the financial statements in accordance with the Unitcd
Kmgdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdorn Generally A¢cepted Accounting Praciice) and applicable law
and regulations.
Company law requires the trnStecs lo prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under company law
the trustees niust not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view
of the stale of affairs ol. the charitable company and of its incoming resourees and application of resources,
including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, (he trustees are
required to..
select suitable accounting policies and apply them ¢onsistenily'
Obsc￿e the methods and principles in the Charities SORP.
make Judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudeni.
state whether applicable UK Accouniing Stsndards l)ave been followed, subject to any material deparmres
disclosed and explained in the financial statements,. and
prepare the financial staiemLnts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate lo presume that the
charitable company will conlinlie in business.
The ituslees are responsible for keeping adequa￿ accounting records that are sufficient lo show and explain the
charitable company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy al any lime the financial position of the
charitable cotllpany and enable them io ensure that the financial sialenienls comply with the Companies Act
2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking
reasonable steps for ihe prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
Approved by the trnsiees of the charity on 2 September 2025 and signed on ifs behalf by..
Mr Philip Pink
Trustee
Mr Timothy Dcmpsey
Trustee
Page 10

The Frlendship Circle (UKI
Independent Examiner's Report to the trustees of The Friendship Circle (UK)
I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 De¢ember 2024 which are set out on pages 12 to 21.
Respective respojjsibilltles of trustee5 and examiner
The trustees (who are also the direciors of thc company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the
preparation of the accounts. The trustees ¢onsid¢r thai an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2)
of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent exaniination is needed. The charity's gross
ineome exceeded £250.000 and l am qualified to undettske the cxamination by being a qualified member of
ICAEW.
Having satisfied myself thai the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independeni
examination. Èt is my responsibility lo:
examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act,.
lo follow the procedurcs laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section
145151{b) of the 201 l Aci. and
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
B&s15 of Independent exsmlner's report
My exaniiE]ation was carricd out in accordance wilh (hc general Dire¢tions given by the Chariiy Commission.
An examination includes a review of ihe a¢¢oiinling records kept by the charity and a comparison of the
accounts presented with those records. li also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the
accounts, and Seeking explai)ations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures
undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is
given as lo whciher the accounts present a 'true and fair view, and Ihc rcport is limited to those matters set out
in the sraiement below.
Independent examlner's statement
In conneliion with my examination, no matter has come lo my attention..
(l } which gives me reasonable cause Lo believe that in any material respeci ihe r¢quirements-.
lo keep accouniing records in accordance with scction 386 of the Coinpanies Act 2006., and
10 prepai'c accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accouniing requirements
of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and ivith the methods and principles of the Statement of
Recomnicnded Practice.. Accounting and Reporting by Charities
have not been met,. or
{21 to which, in my opinion, atienlion should be drawn in order to enable a proper undcrstanding of the accounts
to be ￿ached.
Gordon Levy BA, FCA
Chartered Accountant
ICAEW
Gordon Levy Liniited
Suite 5, 4th Floor
3 Universal Square
Dcvonshire Street North
Manchcster, M12 6JH
2 September 2025
Pagell

The Frlendship Clrcle (UK)
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
(Including Income and Expenditure Account and Statement of Total Recognised Gains
and Losses)
Unrestricted
funds
Total
2024
Note
Income And Endowments from:
Donations and legacies
Investment income
Other income
599.675
3,049
17,6?]
599,675
3,649
17,621
Total Income
620.945
620.945
Expendliure on:
Charitable activities
{535,839)
535,839)
Total Expenditure
535,839
535,839
Net income
85,106
85,106
Net mov¢ment in funds
85,106
85.106
Reeonclllatlon of tsndl
Total ￿ndS brought fonvard
252.167
252,167
Total funds carried fonvard
10
337.273
Unrestrictcd
funds
337.273
TotAI
2023
Note
Income and Endowments from:
Donations ai)d legacies
Investment income
Other income
409,128
2,440
33,259
409,128
2,440
33,259
Total Income
444,827
444,827
Expendlture on:
Charitable activities
478,907
478,907
Total Expcnditure
478.907
478,907
Net expenditure
34,080
34,080
Net movement in fvnds
{34,0801
{34,080)
Reconc511atloD of funds
Total funds broughi forward
286,247
286.247
Toial fvnds carricd forward
io
252,167
252,167
All of the charity's activities dcrive from continuing operations during the above two periods.
The fimds breakdown is shown in note l O.
Page 12

The Friendship Circle (UK)
(Registration number: 06706212)
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024
2024
2023
'ote
Current assets
Debtors
Cash at bank and in hand
94
337,179
252.167
337,273
252,167
Funds of the chArlty:
Unre5trlcted Incorne funds
Unrestricted funds
337,273
252,167
Total funds
10
337,273
252,167
For thc financial year ending 31 December 2024 the charity was entitled io cxemplion from audii under section
477 of the CoTnpanies Aci 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors, responsibilities-.
The member5 have not required the ¢hariry to obtain an aLidit of its accounts for the year in question in
accordance with section 476.. and
The direcltsrs acknowledge rheir responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect
lo aceouniing records and the preparaiion of accounts.
These ac¢ouniS have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to Companies subject to the
small companies regime.
The financial statements on pages 12 to 21 were approved by the trustees, and authorised for issue Ort 2
Septeinber 2025 and signed on their behalf by:
Mr Philip Pink
Trustee
Mr Timothy Dempsey
TNstee
Page 13

The Friendshlp Clrcle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
I Charity status
The chariry is a chariry limi￿d by guarantee and consequenily does not have share capital. Each of the tnjstees
is liable lo contribute an amount noi exceedingr £ l O towards the assets of the charity in the event of liquidation.
2 A¢countlng policles
Summary of slgnlflcant accountlng pollcle5 and key accounting estinjates
The priiicipal accounting policies applied in the preparation of thcse financial statements are set out below.
These policies have been eonsislently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
Statement of compllance
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Chariries..
S¢ai¢ment of Recoinniended Practice applicable to charities preparing ilieir accounts in accordance with the
Financial Reporting Stsndard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 leffeclive l January
2015) - {Charities SORP IFRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicablc in the UK and Republic of
Jreland (FRS 1021 and the Companies Act 2006.
BASIS of preparatlon
Thc Fricndsliip Circle (UK) meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities
are initially recognised at higtorical cost or transaction valiie unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting
policy notes.
Golng concern
The Irustccs consid¢r that there are no mat¢rial un¢ertainlies about the charity's ability to continue as a Boing
concern nor any significant areas of unccrtainty that affect the canying value of assets held by the charity.
Exemptlon from preparlng a cash flow statement
Thc cliarity oplcd to carly adopt Bulletin I published on 2 February 2016 and have therefore not included a cash
flow statemeni in these financial statements.
Income and endowments
All income 15 rccognised once the ¢harity has entiilcmcnt to thc incomc. it is probable that the income will be
rcccivcd and the amount of the income receivable Can bc measured reliably.
Donatioiis and legacies
Donations ar¢ r¢¢ognised when the charity has becn notified in writing of both th¢ amount and scttlcment dale.
In the event (hal a donation is subject to conditions that require a Icvel ot performance by the charity before the
charity is cntiilcd to the fi￿d5, the income is deferred and not recognised until either those conditions are fvlly
mel, or the fulfilment of those conditions is wholly within the control of the charity and it is probable that these
conditions will be fulfilled in thc reporting period.
Grants receivable
Grants arc recogniscd when thc charity has an entitlement lo rhe ￿ndS and any conditions linked to the grants
have been mel. Where perforniance Conditions are attached to the grant and are yet to be mel the income is
recognised as a liability and included on the balance sheet as deferred inromc to be released.
Page 14

The Friendship Clrcle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
Investmenl incoNie
Dividends are recognised on¢e the dividend has been declared and notification has been received of the dividend
duc.
Expendlture
All expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to that expenditure, it is probable
settlement is required and the aniount Can be measured reliably. All cosis are allocated (o thc applicable
expenditure heading that aggregate similar costs to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to
particular headings they have been allocated on a basis consistent with the use of resources, with central staff
costs allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset's use.
other support eost% are allocated based on Ihe spread of staff cosis.
Charitable activities
Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incuri'ed by the chariry in the delivery of its activities and services
for lis beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allo¢aled directly to such activities and those costs of an
indirect narnre necessary io suppori them.
Support costs
Support costs include ceniral ￿n¢t10nS and havc bccn allocated lo aciivity cosl caiegories on a basis consistent
with the use of rcsources. for example. allocating property cosis by floor areas, or per capits. staff Costs by the
time spenr and oiher costs by their usage.
Governance costs
Tliese include tlie costs attributable to the charity's compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements,
including audit, strategic managcmcnt and trustees, meetings and reimbLirs¢d expenses.
Taxation
The ¥hariry is considercd to pass the tests set out in Paragraph I Schedule 6 of the Finan¥e Act 2010 and
thercfore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax PLirposes. Accordingly, thc
chariry is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gain5 received within ¢ategories
covered by Chapier 3 Parl I l of thc Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Scclion 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable
Gains Act 1992, 10 the extent rhal such incon)c or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purw>ses.
Trade debtors
Trade debtors are amounts due frorn customers for merchandise sold or servi¢¢s perfornied in the ordinary
course of business.
Trade debtors #re re¢ognised initially at the transaction price. They are subsequently measured &1 amortised cost
using the effectiv¢ inieresi merhod, less provision for irnpairnient. A provision for thc impairment of trade
debtors is established when there is objective evidenc¢ that the charity will not be able to collect all amounts due
according to the original ternis of the re¢eivables.
Cash alld cxsh equlvalents
Cash and cash ¢quivalcnts compiise ca5b oll hand and ¢all deposits, and other short-term highly liquid
investrnenls that are readily convertible to a knothry) amount of cash and are subject (o an insignificant risk of
change in value.
Page 15

The Friendshlp Circle (UK)
Notes to the Finaneial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
Borrowings
Interest-bearing borrowings are initially recorded ai fair value, net of transaction costs. Interest-bearing
borrowings arc subsequcntly carried ai amortised cost, Ivith the differcn¢e bettvecn the proceeds. nei of
transaction costs, and thc amount due on redemption being recognised as a charge to the Statcment of Financial
Activities over the period of the relevant borrowing.
Interest expense is recognised on the basis of thc cffective interest method and is included in interest payable
and similar charges.
Borrowings are classified as CUJTent liabilities unless the ¢harity has an unconditional right to defer settlement of
the liabiliry for at Icasi twelve nionths after the reporting dale.
Fund structure
Unresiri¢ted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the ttustees, discretion in furtherance of
the objcctii'es of the charity.
Flnanclol Instruments
Clossificailon
Financial assets and financial liabilities are reeognised when the charity becomes a party to the contractual
provisions of the instrument.
Financial liabilities and equity instsuments are classified according to tlie substance of the contracrual
arrangenients cniered into. An equiry instrumeni is any coniract thai evidcnces a residual intere8( in the a5sers of
the charity after deducting all of its liabiliiies.
Recognition and niea.furemeni
All financial asseis and liabilities are initially me&sured at transaction price (including transaction costs), except
for those finan¢ial asseis classified as al fair value d)rough profit or loss, which &re initially measured at fair
value (wliich is nomially the transaction price excludin¥ transaciion costs), unless the arrangement consiitutes a
financing transaction. If an a￿angement coi)slitutes a financing iransaction, the finai)cial asset or financial
liability is measured ai the present valuc of the future paymcnts discounted at a market rate of intcrcst for &
similar debi instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are only offset in the statement of financial position whcn, and only when tliere
exists a legally enforceable right to Sct off the recognised aniounts and the charity intends either to settle on a
nel basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simulthneously.
Financial assets are derecognised when and only when a) the contractual rights to the cash flows from the
financial asset expire OT are settlcd, b) the charity transfers to another party substantially all of the risks and
rewards of owiership of the financial asset, or c) the charity, despitc having reuined some, but not all,
significant risks And rcwards of ownership. has transfcrrcd control of the asset to anothcr party.
Financial liabilities are derecognis¢d only when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled
or expires.
Page 16

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
Debi instruiveh15
Debi insttuments which meet the following conditions are subsequenily measured at amortised cost using the
effeciive interesi method..
lal The contractual return to the holder is (i) a fixed amount,. (li) a positive fixed rate or a positive variable rate-
or (iii) a combination of a positive or a nc¥ativc fixcd ratc and a positive variable rate.
Ibl The contract may provide for repayinents of the principal or the return to the holder {but not both) to be
linked lo a single relevant observable index of general price inflation of thc cU￿encY in whi¢h the deb¢
instrument is denominated. provided such links are not leveraged.
(c) The contract may provide for a deterniinable variation of the return io the holder during the life of the
insltumenl, provided that lil thc ncw ratc satisfies condition (a) and the variation is not contingent on future
events other than ( l ) a change of a contractual variable rate'121 lo prolecr ihe holder against credit deterioration
of the issuer; 131 changes in levies applied by a Central bank or arising from changes in relevant taxation or law.
or lill the new rate is a tnarkel raie of interest and satisfies condition (a).
{dl Thcrc is no contractual provision that could, by its lernis, result in the holder losin8 the principal amount or
any In￿reSt attributable to (he ell￿ent period or prior periods.
(el Conlracttial provisions that pemiit the issuer to prepay a debi instrunient or permit the holder lo pul il back lo
the issuer before marurity arc not contingent on future events, other ihart to protect the holder against the credit
deterioration of the issuer or a change in control of the issuer, or io proiect the holder or issuer against changes
in Icvies applied by a central bank or arising from changes in relevant caxation or law.
(n Contractual provisions may perniit the extension of the iern) of the debi instwnienl, provided that the remrn
to the holder and any other Contrac￿al provisions applicable during th¢ extended terni satisfy the conditions of
paragraplis (a) to (c).
Dcbt instrumenls that are classified as payable or receivable widiin one year on initial recogniiion and which
nieet the above conditions are n)easured at the undiscounted aniount of the cash or other consideration expected
to be paid or received, net of iinpairment.
With the exception of Some hedging instrnments, other debt instwments not meeting these conditions ar¢
Ineasured at fair value through profit or loss,
Commitments to make and receive loans which meet the conditions mentioned above are measured at cost
(which may be nil) less inipairnienl.
Investments
Investments in non-¢onvertible preference sharcs and non-puttable ordinary or preference shares (where shares
arc publicly traded or their fair value is rcliably measurablc) are measured at fair value through profit or loss.
Where fair value cannot be rneasured reliably, investments are measured ai cost less impairnjent.
Investments in subsidiarie& and associates are measured at cost less inipaimient. For investments in subsidiaries
acquired for consideration including the issue of shares qualifying for merger relief, Cost is measured by
reference lo the nominal value of the shares issued plus fair value of other consideration. Any premium is
ignored.
Page 17

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Notes to the Financi21 Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
Derivativefinaneial Instrumenls
The charity uses derivaiive financial insmjments to reduce exposure to foreign exchange risk and interest rate
movements. The charity does noi hold or issue derivative fLnancial instruments for speculative purposes.
Derivaiives are initially recognised at fair value at the date a derivative ¢ontra¢t is cntered into and are
subscqucntly rcmeasured to their fair value at ¢ach rcporting date. The resulting gain or loss is recognised in
sratement of financial activities immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective as a hedging
instrument, in which eveni ihe timing of the recognition in sl8temeni of financial activities depends on the
nature of the hedge relationship.
Fair value measurement
The best evidence of fair value is a quoted pri¢¢ for an identical assei in an active market. Whcn quoted prices
are unavailable, the price of a recent transgAciion for an identical asset Provides evidence of fair valuc as long as
there has not been a significant change in economic circumstsnces or a significant lapse of time since the
transaction look placc. If the Inarkct is not active and recent transactions of an idenii¢al asset on their own are
not a good estimate of fair value, the fair value is estimated by using a valuation technique.
3 Income from donatlons and legaclts
Unreslri¢ted
funds
TotAI
2024
Total
2023
General
t)onations and legacies,.
Donations
Gift aid reclaimed
Grants. in¢luding capital grants,.
Granis from other charities
529,069
45,948
529,069
45,948
370,588
28,242
24,658
24,658
10,298
599,675
599,675
409128
4 Investment Income
Unrestrleted
funds
Total
2024
Tot81
2023
General
Interest receivable and similar income.
Interest receivable on bank deposits
3,649
3,649
2,440
Page18

The Friendship Cfircle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
5 OtheT Income
Unrestricted
funds
Total
2024
Total
2023
General
Programme income
Recharges
17,621
17,621
15,062
18,197
17,6?]
17,621
33,259
6 Expendlture on charilAble ¥ctlvltles
Unrestrlcted
funds
Total
2024
Total
2023
General
Note
Activities undertaken dire¢ily
Allocated support costs
517,123
18.716
517,123
18,716
446,329
32,578
535,839
Atdvlty
undertaken
dlrectly
535,839
478.907
Total
2024
Total
2023
Wages & salarie5
Staff trainin8
Rent & rates
Utilities
Office expcnses
Office relocation expenses
Con)puter & IT
Jnsurance
Printing, postage & delivery
Fundraising & marketing
Programme exp¢nses
Loan inrerest
Professional fees & consultancy
Bank Charges
323,682
3,484
23,708
3,791
8.244
323,682
3,484
23,708
3,791
8,244
277,374
3,829
13,900
6,209
8,838
14,159
soo
3,390
2,872
34,001
98.081
785
14,490
479
963
7.147
3,428
31,756
109,521
963
7,147
3,428
31,756
109,521
19,621
494
19,621
494
535,839
535,839
478,907
Includcd in Wage5 & salaries are wages and salories relating to Programme expenses.
Page 19

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
7 Trustees remuneration and expenses
During the year the charity made the following transactions with tnjstees..
Mrs Mirellle Lyons
Mrs Mireille Lyons received remuneration of £46,000 {2023.' £36.800) during the year.
Mrs Lyons rcccived the above mentioned remuneration in hcr capacity as head of fund raising and opcrations of
the charity.
Mrs Lyons resigned as a trnslee on 31 December 2023.
The remuneration was paid under the power in the Charities Act 2011.
8 StAff costs
The nionthly average nuniber of pcrsons (including senior management team) employed by the charity during
the year expressed as full iiine equivalents was as follows..
2024
2023
Totsl employees
No employee received emoluments of niore ihan £60.000 during the year.
9 Debtors
2024
Other debtors
94
Page 20

The Friendship Circle (UK)
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024
10 Funds
Balance at 31
December
2024
BAlanee at I
January 2024
Incomlng
resources
Resources
expended
Unrestrlcted funds
O¢neral
1252,167
620,945
535,839
337,273
Balance at 31
December
2023
Balance at I
January 2023
IDcomlng
resources
Resources
expended
Unrestrleted funds
Gerteral
286.247)
(444,827)
478.907
252,167
I l Analysls of net assets between funds
Unrestrlcted
funds
General
Total funds
cu￿ent assets
337.273
337,273
12 AnAlysls of net funds
At l January
2024
At 31 December
2024
C*5h Ilow
Cash at bank and in hand
252,167
85,012
94
337,179
94
Current asset investments
Ne( debt
252,167
85.106
337,273
Page 21