Chaflty reglstr•tion number 1141020 Company reglstration number 07513268 (England and Wales) CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH LEGAL AND ADMNISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Ann Hunter Marcus Brain Richard Mak5ymowicz (Resigned 3r0 July 20241 Daniel Bliss- Chair Andrew Cole (Appointed 3m July 20241 Rebecca Galer (Appointed 3rf May 20241 Sean Rudolph (Appointed 24th October 20241 Aman Kapoor (Appointed 13th March 20251 Ophelia Kainth IAppointed 13th March 20251 Socretary Kerry Turner Charlty number 1141020 Company number 07513268 FCA reglstratlon numb•r'. 617566 8ankors: Uoyds 8ank PLC PO Box 1000 Solihull 8x1 1LT Independent examlneT Erdingsworth Business & Tax Advisors Ltd Unil 3 Cuckoo Wharf 427 Lichfield Road 8irrningham B6 7SS
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH CONTENTS Page Trustees port Independent examiner's report 13 Slal8ment of financial acltvilies 14 Balance sheet 15 Notes lo Ihe financial slalements 16-25
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The Trustees are plèased to present their annual report. together wrth the financial statements, for the year 1 April 2024 10 31 March 2025. This report luifils the dLtal function of a Iru5tee5' reFOrt and a directors. report as required by company law. The Trustees confimi that the annual report and financial stalemellts meet current sialutory obligations, adhere lo the eharilable company's governing document, and comply with the Slalemenl of Recommen¢Jed Pr8eliee (SORPI for charities applying the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republie of Ireland IFRS 1021. effe¢live from 1 January 2019. As the organisalion qualifies as a small company under section 382 of Ihe Companies Act 2006. a Strategic Report has not been prepared. in accordanc6 With the exemptions available underthe relevant egislalion. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Structure. govèmance, and managemènt Constitutlon Citizens Advice Solihull Borough ICASB) Is a gIStered charity and a company limited by guarantee. incorporated on 1 February 2011 and formally commancing operabons on 1 Aprll 2011. In line wrth ils legal slalus, each member's li8bility is limited lo £1. A5 of 31 March 2025, tha company comprised eight m8mbers and op8raled undgr its Mèmorandum and Articles of Association. The governance slruclure permils a minimum of three and a maximum of fifteen Trustees. Trustees may be.. Elected at the Annu81 General Meeting lup lo len in lolall. sorving from the conclusion ol the meeting.. or CcFopled by the Twslee Board. provided that al the time of appointment, c¢>opled Trustees do not exceed onevthird of the total number serving. A list of Trustees who served during the year is provided earfier in this raport. None ol the Trustees holds any beneficial interest in the company.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORn FOR THE YEAR EPIDED 31 MARCH 2025 b. RecruStment and appointment of tru$l¢es Individuals aged 18 or over who supporl the airrts of the charity-and who are nol currently, nor have previously been. paid staff or volunleefs-are welcATh to apY for a TrusleelDireclor (Trusteel role within the company. The recruilmenl process begins with an expression of interest. followed by an introductory conversation with the Chair, who outlines the responsibilities ol the role and the next steps. Candidates are then invited lo a formal inleNiew with a panel comprising Twstees and the Company Secretary. If the panel agrees lo proceed, references are requested. Upon CeiPt, the panel presents a recommendation lo Ihe Board, who must unanimously approve the appointment. Once appointed, new Trustees automatically become members of the company. The Board elects a Chair and Treasurer from within its ranks and may also appoint a Vice Chair. New Trusle9s are provided with a comprehenswe induelion covering their legal responsibilities under charlty and company law, the goveming documents, decision-making structures. strategic priorities, and recent financial perfoTmanGe. They ale also introduced lo key members of staff and the Trustee Board. Trustees arè actively encouraged to attend external training relevanl to their role. supporting their ongoing devtloprnent and undeislanding. Organisational structure and dec1s1on8k1ng pollcles Cilizens Advice Solihull Borough ICASBI is a member of Cilizens Advice. the operating name of the National AssoCialn of Citizens Advice Bureaux. Citizens Advice provides a national framework for standards in advice delivery and casework management and monitors performance against these benchmarks. CAS8 is governed by a Trustee Board. which is responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the policy framework of the ch8rily. While the Board delermines independent opèrating policies lo meet both charilable objectives and nalional membership requiremenls, il also holds ullimale accountability for the organisalion's gov8rnarKe and compliance wilh legal and conlr8clual duts'es. The Trustees meet monihly and deleg81e the d8y-Io-day operations to the Chief Executive Officer ICEOI. The Trustee Board remains independent from the management team. A register of members, interests is held al the charity's registered office. CASB'S Senior Management Team Tneets regularty to monilor perf0mnCe against strategic targets, review the financial position, and cons*Jer matters referred lo them by the Trustee Board. Reports and recommendations are brought lo Ihe full Trustee Boarij lor approval. Once a9reed. their implementation is led by the Chief Executive Officer ICEOI In llaborali0 with Ihe stsff team. Regular staff and volunteer meeting5 SUPPOrt ongoing communication 8nd alignment with org8nisational goals. The CEO and Senior Management Team rneet routinely lo review perfom?ance against strategic and operational targets. ensuring that key prioriiies are effectively progressed.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORTI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 STRUCTURE. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT {continuedl Pay and Remuneration of Key Management Personnel The trustees consider that the board of trustees and the senior management team ISMTI comprise the key management personnel of the charity. The charity's senior management team are all paid in accordance with a published scale of grades use(1 in the volunlary secior. Any increases lo these published grades are approved by the Iruslee board. The chief executive's salary is reviewed and approved by th8 Iruslee board separatdy but in line with the policy sel out abovg. Kgy risk8 and Uncertainties The Iruslees having had consideration to and mindful of the risk factors for the charity identify th8 following= Securing sustainable funding rèmains a signthcanl challenge. not only to mairitain but also to expand our services. The coming years are critical for our long-lerm viability. Trustges are taking this risk seriously and responding with locused strategic planning. Dèmand lor our sorvices continues to grow, parlicularly among people facing complex. urgent challenges. This increase comfys al a time when funding remains conslrained. crgaling a significant risk to our ability lo consislenlly meet client needs and uphold the high stsndards Ihal our community expects arKI depends on. We lake great pri¢Je in our repulalion as 8 ¢rusled. local source of free, independent advice. To sustain Ihal role and deliver the nght help al Ihe right time- our capacity musl grow in line with demand. Llke many Ial Citizens Adv services, we are finding il increasingly diffi¢uN to recruit and retaln volunteer9. Economic pressures. changing work pattems. and competing personal commilrnenls, especial in a Iighl job rnarkel. have made il harder for people Io give Iheir lime. This has placed additional strain on our core team. Volunteers rgmain Gentral lo gverything we do. They are nol only the face of our s8rvice. bul o driving force behind OUT impact and reach. Rebuilding and sustaining our volunteer base are essential to meeling currenl arKI fulufe demand. We are 8clively exploring new approaches lo volunteer engaggmenl, aiming to make roles more flexible, inclusive, and rewarding. We are committed to supporting effort5 to grow a resilient and diverse volunteer team. Trustees plans and 51rategies for managing these rks. We have developed a fundraising stralegy for the next financial year Ihat broadens our approach lo income generation. This includes a foous on growing unrestricted income lo help create a financial buffer against potential funding shortfalls. We are refining our advice moxfel lo improve how clients are direct8d to our paid projects. Thi5 will ease pressure on the volunteer team and improve capacty across the org8nis81ion. We recognise that seeing rrK)re pee rgqtsires greater resourcing. and we are aligning operations accordingty.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 A new partnership wrth a university is supporting student engagement in volunteer roles. Trustees have collaborated with university partneTS lo design an effective training approach. ensuring student volunleers are welkequippeo. Earty results indicate this model is working well. Factors Ihal are likely lo affect the financial performanc8 or position in 2025126 and further years= The Trustees have identified several external factors that may inlluence the organisalion's financial position in the coming years.. Navi alin Shiftin Fundin Landsca Like many third sector organisations. Cilizens Advice Solihull Borough is operating in an increasingly competitive funding enviionmenl. We are seeing more organisalions diversify their services in ways that closely align with our own core offer. While Ihis reflecls the growing demand for advice services more broadly, il also places added pr8ssure M our ability to secure income and mainlain a clear, distinctive identity. Sustainable funding rgmains a significant challenge-. not only lo sustain current service levels, bul lo meet rising demand and support mor9 P80ple in need. The coming y8ars will be critical lo our lon temi viability. In iesponse. we are strengthening our strategic locus on income diversification, parlnership development, and service innovation. Achièving greater financial resilience will enable us lo maximise our specialist expertise. suppori. and retain a resolute team ol stsff and vc4unleers. and extend our impact within the local community. Po l Uncertain Ongoing political volalility. bolh Ictally and nationally. presents challenges. Rent electoral changes suggest thal Iradillonal parties may not perform as expocled in upcoming lo¢al ele¢lions, makiny il more difficult to establish relationships with newly elected couneillors and ensure continuity in l¢xal support and funding dialogue. Volunleer Recruilmenl Constraints Despite continual ¢rlIment efforts. atlraeling individuals able lo commil lo long-lerm volunteer roles remains difficult. The intensity and duration ol our training programme. while essential lo maintaining service slandartls, can deler polenlial applicants who lace tsme. financial. or family-related conslrainls. Objocts The charity's purposes, as set out in the objects contsined in the Company's Memorandum of Associalion, are 'to promote any chanlable purpose for the puL4ic nefIt by the advancement of education, the protection and preservalion of health and the relief of poverty. sic%ne5s and distress in particular bul wilhoul limilatNJn for the benef of Ihe community in Sollhull and surrounding areas." The charity's objècts arg defined as al)ove. Our aims are focused on.. To provide the advice people need lor the problems they face. and To irnprove the policies and practices that affect people's lives. Our service provides free, independenl, confrdenlial, and imparts.al advice lo everyone on their right5 and responsibilities. We value diversity. promote equaliiy and ch811enge discnm1natn.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROVGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 The Vision Statement for the CAS8 2024 -2026 Strategic Plan is.. Supporting and growing stronger citizens and mmUnIties. The Mission Statement of Citizens Adwce Solihull Borough is to- inform and empower ciliz8ns who access ourselv8S. providing hwh quality advice and guidance. We will continue lo influenc8 policy at a local. region&l. and national level and pursu8 Soctal and economic justice. We will work and support ourpartners in the st8tutory. prwate and community sectLV to deliver sustainable and successful outcomes. Ensuring our work dellvers our alms. Each year. we review our aims, objectives. arKI actiwtres lo ensLtr8 alignment with our stated puipose. This annual rèview assesses our achievements outcomgs. including tho offeclivenfjss of key projects and the tangible benefits they have delivered. Our primary fccusses Ihls year has been on enhancing our yervth to tter meet the needs of the people we support. Key acts'vilies have included.. Ensuring that our service delivery remains both cosl effecfive. and pgrson cenlred Conlinuoijsly reviewinwnd improving where needed4he quality of advice provided lo all clients Diversifying our funding approxh to reduce reliance on limited streams and improve finan¢ial resilience Slrenglhening partnerships wilh other or9anisabons io develop inilialives that expand access lo quality advice, information. and support Through our advice services and advocacy, we he indivKluals to regain ntrol of Iheir Itves, improve financial and emotional wellbeing, and access the support they need lo thrive. In doing so. we make a meaningful contribution to strengthening our local communrty. reducing inequality. and promoting social justh'ce, which are core to our charitablè wrpDse and Ihe public benefrt wè arè proud to deliv8r. HOW OUR ACTIVITIES DELIVER PUBLIC BENEFIT All of our charitablè activities are deswJned to provide accessible. hvJh-qualily advice lo pooplg facing a wide range of problems. By helping individuals navigate issues such as housing. debt, benefits. employment, and famity matters. we aim to empower clients and strengthen community wellbeing.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR fHE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Our services are open lo all and tailored lo meet the needs of those in greatest need of support. In delivering these services. we ensure that public benefit remains al the core of all that we do. Citizens Advice Solihull Borough is often the first place many Solihull reSents lum lo in momenls of crisis. Each year. thousands of people across the borough rely on us for their Information, advice, and guidance needs. We have a bland recognition of 95'k which twsted in every part of the community. Residents know us, trust us. and Come lo us for advice. The Board ol Trustees has given due regard to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and has complied wilh the duty set out in sects'on 4 of the Charities Act 2011. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE Advic? and Informatlon Servlces Over the past year. wo havp continued lo provKie a broad range of specialist advice and information $9rvices, shaped by the evolving needs of our eommunity- Our work is life-changing, ènabling people to resolve complex issues. reduce hardship, and improvo their quality of life. In doing $0. we also help ease pressure on already stretched slalutory services. Our seNlces are reguLitod by the Advice Quality Standard and the Flnancial Conduct Authority and ale delivered by a highly trained, resolute team. Every client receives accurate. upto4ale advice that meets rigorous. nationally benchmarked standards. We are commilled lo conlinuoLts improvement. Ongoing training and quality assurance help us lo maintain excellence. adapt to new ¢hallen9es. and ensure we remain a trusted and effective source of support for those who need us most These services have included.. Advice Lin Operated five days a week (Monday to Friday), this telephone service offers specialisl advice and information from our trained Advisers, supported by a resolute leam of paid slaff. Advic6 Clinics- Held lce weekly 8tthJr office. these in-person gessions enab clients lo receive fac&to-face support from trained Advisers. Inforrnalion and SeW-Help- Accessible thrjgh our website, offering clients tools and resources lor independent problem-501ving. Advice on Prescription Funded by the Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care Board, thi5 service is embedded wilhin 10 GP practices in North Solihull.11 supports patients with complex advice needs who may not otheise access our services. Money and Debt Advice Seryice - Funded by The Money and Pens•ons Service, this project offers supporl ranging from basic budgeting guidance lo court representation. Advisers assist with financial statements, third-party negolialions. and applications to charitable trusts. • Social Prescribing - Rural Solihull PCN - Delivered across lour rural GP practices, this service connects palienls with community aniSations. helping reduce soci81 isolation, build confidence. and supporl in(Jependent living. Energy and Carbon Monoxide Advice - Funded by National Citizens Aévice, this prooramme helps clients understsnd energy tarrffs, identify savings OPIK)rtunilies, and a(Sopl energy efficiency measures to improve safety and reduce costs.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT IINCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR fHE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Help lo Claim - A national initiative delivered locally by &'rmingham CAB. We refer individuals needing support with Universal Credrt applications and offer in-person assistsnce through to their first payment. Macmillan Partnership - AESO delivered Ihrough Birmingham CAB, this project offers tsilored advice and information for individuals in Solihull who are affecled by cancer. Contrlbutlon of Volunteers and Pald Staff The continued stjccess of Citizens Advice Solihull Borough is buill on the commilm8nt. compassion, and professionalism of our Voluntee ano pa staff. The Trustee Board and Senior Management Team deeply value the vital contribution made by our volunteers. whose dedication lo advising the public and supporting service delivery is central lo everything we do. Wilhoul their time. skills. ènd unwavering commilmenl, the charily slmply could not function. We also extend our sincere appreciation to ¢JJr paid staff. who provide essential leadership, expertise, and operational conlinuily. Togèthar. our leam remains the driving force behind the d8livgry of hig quality advice and support lo our community. The table below shows the breakdown of ts Team Year Paid unleers 2024125 15 67 2023124 16 55 2022123 14 45 2021122 13 29 The volunteers contribute, Dn average. 772 hours pgr week. This may be expressed as an annualisgd value of £450,014. However, their value is inadequately expressed in monetary terms. Indeed. volunteers bring many skills to the $ervice an(J very often ihe experience gained helps individuals return lo fvll employment. Citszens Advice Solihull Borough is workirKJ hard to review our appro8¢h to attracting and kgeping volun19ers. We intend lo consi%lenlly monitor our approach to trainin9 and Provide an accesslble and welcoming place lo volunteer. Who used and benèfited from our services? Year Number of Cllents 2024125 2601 2023124 3239 2022123 3269 2021122 5987 Issues Ralsed 16976 12.336 8911 17.986 Addltlonal Income £2.293.582 £2.044,997 £587,674 £840,720 Cllents continue to present with rnultiple problems and on avorage clionts are pr8s•nting with 6.5 issues each. On average clients are presenting 3 times each before their issues are resolved.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT IINCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 FINANCIAL REVIEW Factors Affecting th8 Achigvement of Objectlves Maintaining suffictent funding lo sustain and develop our serv8 ¢tinueS to be a significant challenge. We are actively investing In fundraising and diversifying our income streams to ensure we can provide a service Ihal is not only cost effective bul also tailored lo meet the real needs of our clients. Our approach is not simpty about reducing costsAI is about delivering meaningful, perSonnIred support in the most efficient and Fmpactful way. Al the same lime, the complexity of issues facgd by Ouf clients is IreasIng. Changes to traditional support networks me8n that clients are coming lo us with a wider range of needs, often extending beyond the scope ofdirecl advice. In response. we are delivering more holistic, person-focused support. While this appToach is essential, parlicularly for those who are vulnerable. it places additi'onal pressure on our resources and capacity. We remain cornmitled lo adapling our SerV8S in response lo these evolving challenges. By invesling in thoughtful service design, prioritising person-centred support. and pursuing a resilient funding strategy, we are positioning Citizens Advice Solihull Borough lo conlinue meeting th8 needs of our community, today and into the fulure. FINANCIAL REVIEW The conlinued pertod of austefity presents significant challenges charitable funding across the $8ctor. Despile this diificul¢ landsca, Cilizens Advice Sdihull Borough rernains committed lo financial stewardship and sustainability. Wa arg focused on providlng measurable added value to our fund8rs by maintaining sound financial management and aligning our seThices with the Strategic prioritios of both local and n8tional Stakeholders. Our efforts are concentrated on delivering seNices thal are tolh cosl effeclive and responsive lo the complex and evolving needs of our clients. However. balancing Ihis commitment with reduced funding streams remains an ongoing challenge, particularly as demand for our servicgs continues to rise. This table sh¢JWS OUT iOrne and expenditure over the last lour years-. Yèar Incom• Expenditure Deslgnated 2024125 264.737 366.559 150.000 2023124 339.805 373.686 145.000 2022123 369.822 315.627 114,000 2021122 381,180 350.490 126,928
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Invgstm•nt Policy In accordance with paragraph 4.17 of its Memorandum. and solely in pursuit of Its charitable objectives, the Company has the authority lo invest or deposil funds by lawtul means. Investments arè made only after seeking appropriate professional advice and wilh consideration given 10 51jltabilily and the importance of maintaining a diversified portfolio. Rgservè$ Poll¢y Citizens Advice Solihull Borough maintains 8 reseryes policy designed to ensure that 5ulficienl free reserves are available each year lo meel foreseeable contingencies. Ttte Trustees have agreed il is prudenl lo hold resèrves equivalent to >6 months. operating expenditure. This value is calculated uging an average of the organisation's current annual running costs and is reviewed quartedy. As of the end of 2024125 the charity's free reserves-defined as unrestricted funds less designated and rixed asseÈs-slood al £194.336. Golng Concern Following appropriate tnquiiies, Ihe Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the organlsalion has adequate resources to continue ts operations for the near future. Accordingly, they eonlinue lo adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial slalements. FUTURE PLANS In 202S126, the Trustee Board iemains firmty focused on d8V8toping a sustainable service that continues lo rneel the evolving needs ol our ¢lients. Building on the foundations laid in the previous year, the charily will conlinug lo div9rsify its funding slreams-strenglhening financial resilienc8 and enabling a service offer that is responsive, inclusive. and forward-looking. We are commilled lo delivering a eosl-effeclive model that balances value for money with the consistent, high-qualily support our clients have come to expect. Thi$ means not $impty reducing costs bul investing wisely to ensure impacl, equity. and efficiency. Akey priority for the year ahead 15 the gnhancemenl of inlemal monitoring systems. 8y gaining 8 deeper und&rslanding of each elernent of our service. we will be able lo measufe performance more effeciively, demonslralo value lo funders. and fine-tune our delivery. This will not only ensure we meet our charitable objectives bul 81s0 help us better define and communicate our business offer lo potential partners and stakeholders. As wè look ahead, Cilrzens Advice Solihull Borough remains committed to evolving in response to the challenges and opportunities facing our community. We afe proud of Ihe resilience, innovation, and integrity with which our team has approached Ihe past year-and equally proud of the tangible difference our serviees Continue lo make in people's INes. The Trustee Board extends its sincere thanks lo our clients. volunteers. staff, partners, and funders. Your support, collaboration. and shared belief in a fairer society make our work possib. Together, we move forward wrfh purpose-to empower indiwduals, influence change, and create a more equitable future for all. This annual report was approved by the trustees of the charity on behalf by rt 16125 and signed on ils Daniel Bliss- Chair of Trustees
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Kgy Slalislics for Ihe year 2024125.. Key Statistics Sdiknll ImEmbewl 16.9Y• Otsi¢ome5 y4 It Ch•nn•i Top rlI1 Gèibdèr Offjawrty J Low.wm hgalih Tup dobl ISSUOS •( It 15 interestin8 to note that 450 people have had their income increased having used our service. Summary Typ¢ of ouicom• Fund•r On• off i Otiwn4 Ch4nn•l V4oikTyp• Work Le¥el Financial outcomes summary ¢4 tllon¢ 8) (24 4D8 F4 1850 219 63 f4J3 i8 00) ¢45 8er4 10.669 2014 2.1 19 5 723 672 £2 8T6
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT IINCLUOING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Issues pthrt 1 18iu• Ip•rt 11 Count ls¥u•s or clltnts D•t• Y•r oi Kliy 03 Pwt S¢.ptrrtw rèbruiry 28 20 Ji 46 46 49 65 a4 32 54 Oebl £dclI0 $7 )5 39 Z4 27 32 25 JJ ?3 24 35 Js klo 28 HaMh & ¢¢ththunty ¢4t• 72 55 44 4) 59 49 7¢ 45 54G ImmrFIoiiana JJ 2S 24 2a thhor ?2 11 6T IJB 569 69 91 57 59 J35 74 J31 Gr4fid foLIl J14 Graph ol issues or clignls with an issue 24 V2 600 400 20Q Ju w•n**r O¢lob•r Jknu•r> Ftbwllv . CJth• Bf.-.gfryfi Vni.. 11 Debl . ionsurD•rgouL4 1 Ch¥haty• Sup8 The chart above shows the number of clienls coming to see us each month and the type of enquiry they hav&. YOLJ will see that the number of clients reduces in August, September. and December, due lo the holiday 5ea50n in those monlhs and reluming to Sch1. Households are busy with other things happening in those months.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH TRUSTEES REPORT IINCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 1 issues % • group 11 Btsrouoh 1ffl9mb8rl 1 issues % By¢ffj58 15 R•lak4nsliw & larni.. 1nwrfis•rty1c% & Ltya 67" 7W Lty,. ITMSFOY 2J4 J% CWwlJ6 i•frt54 IIK ¢r•41 GVASH¥•Cdkn Trkn*l¢ EdEK•N 5upport8 FaodB 4¢ods & str¢•% 11 This cluster graph details the total number of bssues wilhin each calegory we give irrfomiation, advice, and support in. Welfare bènèfits rernain our largest enquiry area with more people se8ing if they can claim anything lo increase their income or claim disability benefits tor long term heth conditions they now have.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF CITIZENS ADVICE SOUHULL BOROUGH We report lo the trustees on our examination of the financial slatements of Citi'zens Advice Solihull Borough Ilhe Charttyl for Ihe year ended 31 March 2025. Responsibilities and basis of report As the Iruslees ol the Charity land ils d1ClorS for the purposes of Company Lawl you are Tesponsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 Ilhe 2006 Acll. Havlng satisfied ourselves that the financial statements of th& Charity are not required lo be audited under Part 16 of Ihe act 2006 Act and are eligible fo¥ irHlependenl exarninalion. we report in respect of our examination of the Charity's financial stslemenls cairied out under section 145 of the Char¢ties Act 2011 Ilhe 201 f Acll. In carrying oul our examination we have followed all the applicable directions givan by the Chanty Commission under section 14515)Ibl of the 2011 Act. Independent examlner's sL7t•ment Since the Charity's gross income exceeded £250.000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. We confimi lfial we are qualified lo undertake the examination because we are a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians IAAT). which is one of tho listed bodies, We have completed our examination. We confirm Ihal no matters have come to our attention in onnection with the examinalion giwng us cause lo believe that in any material fespecl.. accounting records were not kept in respecl of the Charity as requifed by section 386 of th8 2006 Act-. or the financial statements do not accord wilh these records.. ¢ 3. the financial stal6m8nls do not comply with ihe accounting requirements of sgclion 396 of th• Act other than any requirement that Ihe accounts give 8 true and fair view which is not a maller considered as part of an independent examination.. or 4. the financial slalements havg not been prepaied in accordance with the methods and principles ofthe Slalement ol Recommended Practi for aceounling and reporting by charities preparing their accounts in accordan with the Financial Rewrting Standard applicable in the UK and Irgland IFRS 1021. We have no eoncerns and have come across no other matters In connection with Ihe examinatlon to which attention should be drawn in Ihis report In order to enable a proper understandin9 of the financial slalemenls lo be reached. Erdlngsworth Buslngss & Tax Advisors Ltd Unil 3 Cuckoo Wharf 427 Lichfield Road Bimiingham 86 7SS
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Vnrestikted Aestrirted fvhds lun65 Totsl Unrestrkted Resirtied fuhds lunds IQ14 2024 Totsl 2024 14otes Income from OonaiK)n5 and le8acfe5 Intome from charitatrle 4A41 4341 5.983 S,983 30,069 I29?7 259.896 138.177 195.645 333,822 Ttstal Income 34.9J9 2292? 264,737 144.160 195.645 339,805 Ex •ndlNre on: CharItae acliyites 133.627 232.932 366,S59 2W,7LO 172.976 373.686 Gross Translers funds P4•t In¢ome lorthe yearl Net mov•m•ntth fuods .105 198.7181 11013221 56,550 33,881 Fund balan¢?5al l Aprll 2024 333.157 17433 34Y 367 038 Fund balances at 31 M•r¢h 2025 194.337 36.997 231.335 29355 40,102 333,157 The statement ot linantial ctMtTes all bsgesie¢o8n1fjn iYear. AI Income and ekpenditure+Yern IroMtontiniAry CtwitS. The siJiement ol finaKibl actk¥itsalx•cOmpkesthi tew1nlO4o4ft¢offit>d expenthlure account under the CompaNesAct 20C6.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH BALANCE SHEET ASA T31 MARCH 2025 2025 20 FrAed assets Tangible asset5 Current assets Debtor5 Cash ai bank and in hand 62,851 ,158 243.1YYJ 112.957 229.340 342.297 Credltots.. amoyfits lalling du• *llhln one year io IL675 9.140 Net current a5setS 333,157 Total a55ets le55 currerit NablAe$ 231,334 333,157 Income tunds Rèstricted funds li 36.997 40,102 De$i8nated funds General unrestricted fwds 150,OC 145.c¥JO 148,055 194.336 231.334 293,055 333.IS7 The company is entitled to tho 8XgrnPtion trom the audr( requirement conlained in seclion 477 of th8 Cornpanies Acl 2006. for the year ended 31 March 2025. The directors acknowledge their responsibililies for complying with the raquiremenls of the Act 2006 with respecl lo accounting records and the preparalj.on ol financial sl8temenls. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of ils financial stalemenls for the year in question in accordance with section 476. These financial slatemenls have been prepared in a¢¢ordance with Ihe provisions applicable Èo companies subjecl lo the Small companies. regime. The financlal talemenls were approved ty the trustees on...... Daniel Bli3S Chair Company registration number 07513268
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 A¢¢ountlng pollcle5 Charity information Cilizens Advice Solihull Borough is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 176 Bosworth Drive, Chelrnsley Wood, Birmingham. B37 5DZ. Accounting cOnntIOn The financial slalemenls have been prepaTed in accordance with the Charity's Igovernin9 document), the Companies Act 2006. FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic ol Ireland" IFRS 1021 and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by charities.. Slalement of Recommended Praclice applieabl& lo charities preparing their accounts in accordance wilh Ihe Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102). The ¢harity is a Public Benefit Enlrty as defined by FRS 102. Golng Concern Al Ihe time of approving the financial statements. the truslees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequat8 resources lo continue in operational exislence for the near future. Thus. the Iruslees Continuè lo adopt th? going ¢ccern basis of a¢counling in preparing the financial statgmgnts. Charltable funds Unrestricted funds are availat4e for use al the discretion of the trustees in furtherance ol thtsir Charitab objèctivès. Reslricted funds are subject to specific conditson5 by donors as lo how they may be usgd. The purposes and uses of Ihg unrestrictgd fvnds afe sel out in the noles lo Ihè financial stalemenls. Endowment funds are subjecl to Specif conditrons by donots that tha capital musl be maintained by the Charity. Income Income is reced when the Charity is legally entitled to il after any performan¢& conditions have been mel, the amounls can be measured reliably, gThJ il is prob8ble Ih81 Èncome will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Olher donations are recognised onee thè Charity has been notified of Ihe donation unless perfornance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tsx recoverable Én relation lo donations received under Gift Aid oi dee(Is of covgnant is recognised al the lime of donation. Legacies are recognised on receipt or olherwise ifthe Charity has been notified of an impending dislribulion, the amounl is krkown. and ceip1 is expected. If Ihe amounl is not known, the legacy is tre8led as 8 contingent asseL
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ICONnNUEDI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Accounting policie$ IntInued) Expenditure Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or conslrucbve obiigation to transfer economic benefit lo a third party. il is probable th31 a Iransfer ol economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amounl ol Ihe obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classifred by activity. The c051s of each activity are made up of the lolal of direct costs and shared costs. induding suprM)rt costs invdved in und8rtaking e8eh aeiivily. Direct costs attributable to a singlg aclivity are allocat&J tjirecuy to that activity. Shared costs which contribute lo more than one activity and support cosls which are not attributable lo a single aclivily are apportioned betsween those activities on a basis consislenl with the use of resources. Central slaff costs are allocated based on lime spent. and depreciation charges are Ilocated on Ihe portion ol the asseis use. TangSble fixed a$$•ts Tangible fixed assets are inilially measured at cost and subsequenlly measured 81 cost or valuation, nel of depreciation and any impairni•nt Iossgs. Depr8cialion Is recognised to write off the cost or v81uation of 8ssets18$$ their r¢siOual values over their uselul lives on the following basis. Fixtures and fittings Compulers 10% straight line 20% straight line Impaimiont of flxed assets Al each reporting end dale, the Charity reviews the carying amount of ils tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assèts have sufferèd an impairmènt 105$ lil any). Cash aTrd ¢a$h equlvalents Cash and cash equivalenls include cash in hand, dèposits held with banks. other $horl-t@mi liquid investments with onginal m81urilies of Ihree months or less and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafis are shown within borrowings in current liabilities. Trade debtor¥ Trade debtors are amounts due from customers for servi5 porformed In the ordinary course of business. Trade debtors are recognised initially at the transaction price. They are subsequently measured al amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment. A provision for Ihe impairmenl of trade debtors is eslablished when there is objeclive evidence that the company will not be abk8 lo coleet all amounis due xcording to the original lerms of (he receivables. 1.10 Trade Credltors Trade cre¢Yitors are (ybligalions lo pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operation from suppliefs. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities il payment is due within one year or less. If not. they are presented as non-currenl liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at Iransact40n price and subsequentty measured at amortised cost using the effeclive interest rnethod.
CITIZENS AOVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 1.11 Employe8 ben8frts The wst ol any unused holiday entiliemenl is recognised in the period in which the employee5, services are received. Termination benefits are recoJnised immediately as an expense when the Charity is dernonsirabty commilled lo terrninale the empyMen1 of any employee or lo provide lemiinalion benefits. 1.12 R•liremènt beneflts Payments to definotj conlribulion rets"rem&nl benefit schemes ar8 Gharged as on expense as they fall due. Critlul a¢countlng estlmates and ludggments In the applicalion of the Charity's 8ecounling policies. Ihe Iruslees are required to make judgments, eslimales and assumptions about the calng amount of assets and liabilities that 8re not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical expenan¢¢ and olher fact(Ys that a relevant. Actual results may differ Irom these estimatès. The estimates and underfying assumptions a reviewed on an ongolng basis. Revislons lo accounting eslimales are reccmjnised in the period In which the estimatè is revised whero th9 revision affects only thal, or in the perDJ of the fevision and future periods where the revision affec15 both current and future periods.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHVLL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Donatlons and legacies Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds 2025 2024 Donations and gifts Lea8acies receivable 4,841 6,102 tl.841 6,102 Donatlons and 81ft5 Contract5 Donations Grants Trading {Contlnued) 267 276 4.574 4,841 5,826 6,102 Incomg from ¢harltable a¢tlvltles Restrkted Restricted 2025 2024 Projects 264,737 339,805 Analysis by fund Unrestricled funds Restricted funds 34.909 229,827 264.737 144.160 195,645 339.805
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS {CONTINUEDI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Charitable activities Advlce and Infomiatlon Pr¢Je¢ts SeNice 2025 2025 Total Advlce and Infomiation Prolects 2025 Service 2024 2024 Total 2024 Staff costs Depreciation and impairment Office premises and other costs Governance costs Staff ané traini S(Xl 314,573 315,073 316,044 316,544 873 8,266 2,8(KS 38.4(Xl 39.273 8.266 3.947 423 4.769 2,757 48.943 49,366 4,769 1.147 250 12,439 354,120 366,559 8,449 365,237 373,686 Analysls by fund Unrestricted f unds Restricted funds 5.971 127.656 6,468 226.464 12,439 354,120 133.627 232.932 366.559 5.692 2,757 8,449 195,018 200.710 170,219 172,976 365,237 373,686 Trusteès None ef the Iruslees lor any persons connected with them) received any rernuneration or benefits from the charily durin9 the year.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR EAIDED 31 MARCH 2025 Employees The average monthly number of empkjyees during the year was 1512024.. 131 Ernployment costs 2025 2024 Wages and salari&s Social security costs Other pension wsls 297,260 12.733 5,080 239,943 17,699 4.902 315.073 316,543 The average headcounl expressed as lulklime equivalents was 15 (2024= 131. There were ernploye8s wse annu81 remunerali)n was more than £60,000. Tangible flxed assets F[xtU$ and Computers rthin85 Total Cost At l April 2024 2S.248 986 26,234 At 31 March 2025 2S,248 986 26,234 Depreclatlon and Impaimient At l April 2024 Depreciation charged in year 2S,248 986 26,234 At 31 March 2025 25,248 986 26,234 Carying amount At 31 March 2025 At 31 March 2024
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ICONTINUEDI FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 Debtors 2025 2024 Amounts falling due within one yeai: Trade debtors Prepayments and accrued irKome 62.851 24.786 87,637 95,727 17.229 112,956 10 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2025 2024 Other taxation and soclal security Trade creditor5 Other creditors Accruals and deffered income 9.226 5,155 29 2.420 11,675 1.705 2,280 9.140
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 11 Restricted funds The income funds of the charity include restried fvnds comprising of the following.. Balance at Incomin8 Resovites Tr••slers Oi Apnl 2023 ResouY¢es expended Balan¢0 at Ihcomln8 01 Ap4 2014 50r(eS Resources Balance at QXpdd JI March 1015 Prlonty 1.4 CIT A EAP CEP NW EOP Er8¥ Helpto CLaim SM8C- SCH Acrive Chais CovSd Debl GPSolihuM CCG We Are Di8ilaS Millie5 Watch MAPS 1135751 39.468 154.gJ81 114,797) 129.OJ5 203 13,966 39,270 B,1 19,350 17.SQ21 13,125 19.2431 12J97 203 4.066 34010 8.LCKI 12.568 13.113 149,1701 134,2331 125.7911 120mOI 122.3561 120.1681 I19? 12P391 385 18171 873 125431 1281 259Z 51.ll8 57,215 15.235 70.112 21.046 385 18.871 14.370 16.520) 385 1871 873 13.1201 29A58 315 143,5031 228 I5? 129.4761 27301 55J60 168hSOI 15,11 17,433 195,645 117Z.9761 40.102 229A28 1232,9321 36,997 12 Dgslgnated funds The income funds of the charity include the foll¢)wing designated funds which have been set 8sicle out ol the unrestricled funds by the trustees for speciftc purposes: Balance at Transfers 01 Ap1 2023 Balance at Incomlng Balance at 01 Aprli 2024 iesource$ 31 March 2025 IT Equiprnent and harth¥are Redundancy provision Premises Lease obligatitsns Maintenance per year Staff resourcing 6,CO) 6.L>)) 45.CQ) lo.1 3,CW 3.0 50.(XIO 22,IKX) Il4.¢X)O 31,0(X) 12.C#)) 45,(KX) io,co) 6.CrfJO 27,0 72,1XK) 122,(KX)I 145.IKM) 12,0(X) 45,0(X) 10,00) 33,0(X) 50,0 150.0
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 13 Analy$i$ of net assets between funds Unre5trtcled Aestrkted funds funds 20Z5 2025 Totsl Llnrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total 2025 2024 Fund balafices at 31 Mhrch 2025 are represented bv.. Tangible a5set5 Current assetsllliabilitiesl 194.337 194.337 36.997 231,335 36.997 231.335 293,055 293,055 40,102 40.102 333,157 333,157 14 R•strlcted funds Prlority Proj•ct Citizens Advice Soh'hull Borough (CAS8) is the delivery partner for Solihull Metropolitsn Borough Council {SMBGI. The project seeks lo assisl unemployed people back to work with SMBC receiving approved funding from the European Social Fund. SMBC will provide grants to CAS8 to assisl in covering a proporlion ol the staff costs incurred over the project term which is 3 years. SM8C-S¢H This funding is lo continue the work done with Clients and as$isl with Iheii fulure endeavours, Actlv• Chat• This project is a telephone and virtual befriending $erw¢e to encourage vulnerable people to increé5e their physical activity levels and become less socially isolated. Mon•y Advlcè Sgrvicg {MAPS}- Debt Ad¥lce Through Ihe Money Advice Service CAS8 are lundeLI 10 give a lull spectrum ol money advice lo residents of Solihull. We give bas budgelin9 advice, flnancial capability, negots'ale wilh third Parties, bankruptcy applications and representation at CcMJrt. Cltizens Advice Energy 8e$l Ogal A project to explain to people the benefits of becoming more energy efficient along with providing adviee on swapping energy providers with face-tlaCe appoinlmenls. Sollhull-ICB Advice surgeries at 10 GP practices in North Solihul. We delIr onethhour appoinlrnents to patients. The appointments are for specialist advice and can be on any topic we cover.
CITIZENS ADVICE SOLIHULL BOROUGH NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025 15 Operating lease ¢ommltments Al the reporting end date. the Charity had outstanding commrtmen15 for fulLEre minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases which fall du8 as follows. 2025 2024 Within 1 year Belween and five years 994 994 994 2,981 16 Related party transactions There were no disclosable felated party transactions during the year12024.. £nil). 17 Ind•pendent examlnatlon The TeMUnera'0n paid lo the independent examiner was £2.42012024.. £2.280).