Registered number: 08158543 Charity number: 1148594
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity, its Trustees and Advisers | 1 |
| Trustees' Report | 2 - 11 |
| Independent Auditors' Report on the Financial Statements | 12 - 15 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 16 |
| Balance Sheet | 17 - 18 |
| Statement of Cash Flows | 19 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 20 - 36 |
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Trustees
Mae Kelly, President/Sabbatical Trustee Wladimir Albuja, Student Trustee (resigned 4 July 2023) Yash Arora, Student Trustee (appointed 7 June 2023) Ayyan Bebal, Student Trustee (appointed 7 June 2023) Anthony Coad, External Trustee Farimah Darbyshire, Trustee (appointed 29 November 2022) Kevin Dickie, External Trustee Lewis Dixon, Officer/Sabbatical Trustee (resigned 6 June 2023) Paul Hutchings, Officer/Sabbatical Trustee (resigned 19 May 2023) Andrea Miller, External Trustee (resigned 29 November 2022)
Company registered number
08158543
Charity registered number
1148594
Registered office
WLSU St Mary's Road Ealing W5 5RF
Company secretary
Tye McMahon
Chief executive officer
Tye McMahon
Independent auditors
Goodman Jones LLP Chartered Accountants 29/30 Fitzroy Square London W1T 6LQ
Bankers
Barclays Bank Plc 53 The Broadway Ealing W5 5JS
Page 1
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
The Trustees present their Annual Report together with the audited financial statements of the Charity for the period from 1 August 2022 to 31 July 2023. The Annual Report serves the purposes of both a Trustees' Report and a Directors' Report under company law. The Trustees confirm that the Annual Report and financial statements of the charitable company comply with the current statutory requirements, the requirements of the charitable company'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 (FRS102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Since the Charity 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 objects of the Union are the advancement of education of Students at The University of West London for the public benefit by:
- 1) promoting the interests and welfare of Students at The University of West London during their course of study and representing, supporting and advising such Students;
2) being the recognised representative channel between Students and The University of West London and any other external bodies; and
3) providing social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities and forums for discussions and debate for the personal development of its Students.
b. Main activities undertaken to further the Charity's purposes for the public benefit
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 4 of the 2006 Charities Act to have due regard to guidance published by the Charity Commission regarding Public Benefit.
Page 2
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Achievements and performance
a. Review of activities
The NSS results have placed UWLSU 3rd in the UK for comparable higher education institutions.
UWLSU exceeded its 60% year-end target In Q4. Engagement rose to 74%, the highest since the year 2017/18. With the increase of the student population this represents a significant increase in the amount of engagement that the union has achieved.
UWLSU exceeded 8 targets and achieved a further 14 in the year 2022 2023 and achieved all financial KPls.
| Key Performance Indicator | Target | Status Q4 | Year-end Result |
Commentary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| E1: 60% students engaged in SU activity | 60% | 74% | Exceeded | This target has been exceeded in Q3. |
| S1: Top 3 SU by satisfaction with NSS Q26 |
Top 3 | - | Achieved | NSS results were published 10th August 2023 |
| R2: Achieve 50%+ engagement in SU-led extracurricular activity |
50% | 64% | Exceeded | This target was exceeded in Q3. |
| WP1: 90% physically enrolling students engaged in Welcome Project Activity |
90% | 91% | Achieved | This KPI was achieved following the February Welcome period. |
| WP2: Engage 1000 students in Freshers’ Social Programme |
1000 | 2483 | Exceeded | A successful welcome period in February has led to this KPI being exceeded. |
| WP3: 90% of physically enrolling students engage in the Big Conversation |
90% | 90% | Achieved | This target was achieved following induction in February. |
| SV1: 75% of student views collected during their study |
75% | 64% | Not achieved | This was not met due to the high number of international students not attending induction in person and IPS not participating in a typical induction programme. |
| SV4: 80% of issues identified by the Student Voice tracker successfully resolved |
80% | 96% | Exceeded | Issues have been resolved at a high rate and this KPI was exceeded by year end. |
Page 3
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Achievements and performance (continued)
| AO1: 100% students who seek advice from UWLSU receive it |
100% | 100% | Achieved | Data will be available at the start of the autumn term. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1: Increase followers across our social media platforms by 20% |
20% | 30% | Exceeded | Strong follower growth on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn has led to this KPI being exceeded. |
| C2: Maintain 60% open rate on UWLSU emails |
Maintain 60% open rate |
70% | Exceeded | Email open rates are currently running successfully above the current target. |
| CS3: Maintain 90% staff engagement in NUS Staff engagement survey |
90% | 97% | Exceeded | The survey results showed an excellent score of 97% engagement 1% higher than the last year. |
| CM1: Report profit in Commercial Services |
Report Profit |
Profit | Achieved | Careful tracking of consumer trends, adjusting profit margins and coaching student staff enabled commercial services to deliver a profit. |
| CM2: 90% of customers rate service as very good or excellent |
90% | 90% | Achieved | Customer survey responses remained positive throughout the year. |
| CM3: 100% of internal audits completed |
100% | 100% | Achieved | All internal audits have been successfully completed. |
| F1: Staff costs ratio of under 50% | 50% | 50% | Achieved | Staff cost ratio has been maintained at 50%. |
| F2: 3 months of operating expenses maintained as reserve levels |
3 months reserves |
3 months reserves |
Achieved | At the close of Q4 3 months operating costs were maintained in as reserves. |
| F3: Achieve a clean external audit | Achieve | Achieved | Achieved | The union received a clean audit. |
| F4: Achieve a surplus of at least £20k | >£20k | £27k | Exceeded | A surplus of £27k was reached this year. |
| QB1: Best Bar None | Gold | Gold | Achieved | The Best Bar None Gold was awarded in Q4. |
| QB2: Green Impact | Very Good |
Good | Achieved | The Green Impact results were achieved. |
| QB3: Food Safety Rating | 5* | 5* | Achieved | Food safety was assessed in Q4 of last year and a 5* rating was awarded. |
a. Going concern
After making appropriate enquiries, the Trustees have considered the future plans for the Charity and it is deemed that the Charity can meet its commitments and liabilities and can continue for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements. Further details regarding the adoption of the going concern basis can be found in the accounting policies.
The Trustee Board confirms that the Union has sufficient funds to meet all its obligations. The Union's Grant for 2023/24 has been confirmed at £1,802,860 block grant, £522,301 of special projects income and £819,958 for the serviced premises. The Union's activities for 2023/24 are expected to generate a surplus.
Page 4
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
b. Financial review
The Union's gross income was £3,629,442 (2022: £3,100,521) during the year. This included an annual block grant from the University of £1,680,996 (2022: £1,472,000), a special projects grant from the university of £467,000 (2022: £280,000), an estimated value of the space granted and other services provided by them of £745,420 (2022: £730,800), and income from income generating activities, including investment income and other income, totalling £614,053 (2022: £473,460).
The total expenditure of £3,602,346 (2022: £3,071,221) was spent on student facing services and income generating activities, leaving us with a surplus of £27,096 (2022: £29,300) for the year. This has increased our reserves to £884,044 (2022: £856,948). The Union's expenditure included affiliation fees to the National Union of Students totalling £38,000 (2022: £36,825) for the year.
Further, the Union will engage in monthly financial planning and detailed reforecasting exercises including identifying potential risks and opportunities relating to income and costs of activities.
Finally, the Union continues to maintain a strong reserves position, no long term debts, and will monitor cash flow on a weekly and monthly basis to ensure liquidity. There is no material uncertainty and the Union have the resources to continue in operation for the foreseeable future hence the accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.
The Union makes no use of professional fundraisers, has not entered into any voluntary codes of conduct regarding fundraising activities, and has received no complaints regarding its fundraising activities during the year.
c. Reserves policy
The Trustees have determined to maintain an average of unions’ 3 months operating expenses as a minimum reserve level to ensure there are sufficient reserves to cover unexpected eventualities and to resource planned capital expenditure. The total reserves (the Charity's Funds) at 31 July 2023 stood at £884,044 (2022: £856,948) where £175,129 (2022: £230,246) are represented by fixed assets and the rest by net current assets.
Structure, governance and management
a. Constitution
West London Students’ Union is a charitable company limited by guarantee, incorporated on 26 July 2012, and registered as a charity on 16 August 2012, Charity number 1148594.
The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objects and powers of the charitable company and is governed under its Articles of Association. In the event of the company being wound up members are required to contribute an amount not exceeding £1.
The Union is devoted to promoting the education, interests and welfare of its Members (students at the University of West London). It is the recognised independent representative body of students at the University.
b. Methods of appointment or election of Trustees
The directors of the company are also charity trustees for the purposes of charity law. The Students’ Union elects the Officer (Sabbatical) Trustees and the Student Trustees whilst the External Trustees are appointed by the Trustee Board.
Page 5
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Structure, governance and management (continued)
c. Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees
The Union aims to have a high performing Board and views induction and training as central to that. All new Trustees receive an induction to the Union which is delivered by Union staff, and an induction to trusteeship. Key information is provided to Trustees which includes accounts, the strategic plan, and an organisational diagram. Trustee knowledge and skills are evaluated at regular intervals and training is designed around the specific needs of individuals and the Board as a whole. Through our membership of the National Union of Students, Trustees have access to expert advice and guidance, conferences, and training.
d. Pay policy for key management personnel
The Articles of Association make clear the circumstances under which Trustees can be paid. This is limited to the payment of reasonable expenses and the remuneration of Sabbatical Trustees who are remunerated under contracts of employment with the Union. The Trustee Board set pay levels for Sabbatical Trustees and when doing so pay diligent attention to conflict of interest rules. This means that Sabbatical Trustees are not able to vote on any resolution related to their remuneration. Pay levels for Sabbatical Trustees aim to cover reasonable living costs for the duration of their time in the role. Three key benchmarks are used to inform the decision which are a) other London Sabbatical Trustee pay levels, b) the cost of living in London, and c) the average graduate salary of a University of West London student.
Pay for senior staff aims to be fair, competitive, and affordable for the Union. To ensure that pay is set fairly, transparently, and that it is set in direct relation to the needs of the organisation, the Union adopts a Job Evaluation Scheme Policy and process. Senior staff roles are evaluated by an independently trained panel based on the job description and the person specification. The Trustees set pay levels and evaluation criteria on an annual basis.
Page 6
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Structure, governance and management (continued)
e. Organisation structure and decision making
The Union is democratically controlled by its members through the annual election of a team of student and periodic appointment of non-student representatives who together form the Union’s Trustee Board.
The membership of the Trustee Board is as follows and all are elected in accordance with the Articles:
-
Not more than three Officer Trustees (“Sabbatical Trustees”)
-
Not more than two Student Trustees
-
Not more than two External Trustees
-
Not more than one Alumni External Trustee
The Board of Trustees are responsible for the management and administration of the Union including the governance and strategy of the Union and the overall legal, financial, and staffing responsibilities of the Union.
The Trustee Board delegates the day-to-day management of the Students’ Union to the Chief Executive. The Chief Executive manages the Union by implementing the policies and strategy adopted within a budget approved by the Trustees.
Officer Trustees
Up to three Officer Trustees are elected by secret ballot by the members of the Union at an election held in accordance with the Byelaws. The post the Officer Trustees are elected to are also set out in the Byelaws. The Officer Trustees remain in office for a term of one year and may be re-elected for a maximum further term of one year by the Members of the Union but for the avoidance of doubt, an Officer Trustee’s terms of office may be either consecutive or non-consecutive and the maximum total term that can be served as an Officer Trustee is twenty four months. Each Officer Trustee must be a Student or an Officer Trustee at the time of his or her election. An Officer Trustee becomes a Member of the Union on commencement of his or her appointment or reappointment as an Officer Trustee. Such membership ceases when they cease to be an Officer Trustee.
There is one Officer Trustee who is required to be a member of the University Board of Governors.
Student Trustees
Up to two Student Trustees are appointed by advertising positions and a sub-committee of Trustee Board interviews and recommends appointment. The Student Trustees remain in office for a term of two years but may be shorter to fit in with term times and start/end dates of students’ courses. A Student Trustee is entitled to serve a maximum term of two consecutive years. Each Student Trustee must be a student at the time of his or her election and must remain a student throughout the duration of their term in office.
External Trustees and Alumni Trustee
Up to two External Trustees and one Alumni Trustee shall be appointed by the Trustee Board. External Trustees and Alumni Trustees remain in office for a term of up to four years commencing from the date of their appointment. External Trustees and Alumni Trustees may serve for a maximum of two terms which may either be consecutive or non-consecutive.
Policy Making
Policy can be set by the leadership team, and by the Trustees, with a Referendum, at an Annual Members Meeting or at a General Meeting.
Page 7
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Structure, governance and management (continued)
The Officer Trustees work alongside the permanent Union staff to implement and carry out the strategy and policies set by the Trustee Board. The permanent staff team is managed by the Chief Executive, who is directly accountable to the Trustee Board, through the President, for the Union’s performance. The Chief Executive works closely with the Officer Trustees to advise them in relation to policy, strategy, and budget.
Staff Structure
The Chief Executive is the head of the staff team and there are three directorates under them: Operations; Membership; Finance. There are three senior managers who oversee each Directorate. Within each Directorate are a series of Departments that are each managed by a Manager.
The overview of the staff structure is: Head of Membership
-
Representation & Advocacy
-
Advice & Wellbeing
-
Partnership
Head of Commercial Operations
-
Commercial
-
Community & Belonging
-
Sports Centre
-
Communications & Marketing
Head of Finance & HR
-
Finance
-
Compliance & Governance
-
HR
f. Related party relationships
The University of West London is the parent institution of the Union. The Union received a revenue block grant from the University of West London of £1,680,996 (2022: £1,472,000) and a grant for special projects of £467,000 (2022: £280,000) in 2022/23. In addition to this, the University provided £745,420 (2022: £730,800) for serviced accommodation. The University of West London is the main funder of the Students’ Union and provides the Union with a block grant which is agreed on an annual basis. The Students’ Union funds around 20% of annual activity from income generating services including events, media sales, sponsorship, a bar, a coffee shop, and a sports centre.
g. Risk management
The Trustee board are responsible for the Union’s risk management. The senior management team have delegated authority for identifying and reporting on the risks facing the organisation to the Trustees as they arise in relation to items of business at the Board. In addition, the senior management team provide information on risk to enable Trustees to undertake an annual review. The Trustee Board examines the Union’s major strategic, business and operational risks on an annual basis. The Trustees confirm that systems have been established to enable regular reporting which allows them to take the necessary steps to mitigate any risks.
Page 8
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Plans for future periods
2023 Strategy and Business Plan
Mission statement
To exceed in our engagement activities & representation of all UWL students, achieve our annual targets and strategic objectives; and deliver services, programmes and activities that result in an evidence-based and sustainable impact on the student experience.
Our behaviours
Inclusive
We aim to remove barriers that can prevent engagement or participation in UWLSU activity We consider the implications of our work on the differing groups we work with We seek our different ideas and perspectives from our diverse range of stakeholders
Informed
We listen to members and stakeholders to understand how to best deliver what matters to them We share our knowledge and learn from others to continually improve our work We evidence our work using research, legislation, and best practice to maximise our impact
Collaborative
We build strong relationship within our teams, and with members, UWL staff, higher education sector and community partners
We respect the views of others and respectfully address behaviours that conflict with our values We take responsibility for our own actions and share our success with others
Courageous
We try new things and learn from our mistakes
We are innovative and creative in the design and delivery of our work
We are not afraid to move into spaces not traditionally associated with a students’ union
Integrity
We operate transparently and are accountable to our members We represent all students equally and act in their best interests We are reliable, honest and ethical, and treat people fairly and equitably
Determined
We lead through excellence and produce quality, evidenced based, results driven work We are highly performing, highly engaged and value and invest in learning
Page 9
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
Plans for future periods (continued)
Our objectives and associated KPls for 2023-24 are as follows:
| Key Performance Indicator | Target |
|---|---|
| E1: 70% students engaged in SU activity | 70% |
| S1: Top 3 SU by satisfaction with NSS Q25 | Top 3 |
| R2: Achieve 60%+ engagement in SU-led extracurricular activity | 60% |
| WP1: 70% of enrolling students complete full induction | 70% |
| WP2: Engage 1500 students in Welcome Social Programme | 1500 |
| SV1: 75% of student views collected during their study | 75% |
| SV4: 85% of issues identified by the Student Voice tracker successfully resolved | 85% |
| AO1: 100% students who seek advice from UWLSU receive it | 100% |
| C1: Engage 1500 students in digital community activity | 1500 |
| C2: Maintain 60% open rate on UWLSU emails | Maintain 60% open rate |
| CS3: Maintain 90% staff engagement in NUS Staff engagement survey | 90% |
| CM1: Report profit in Commercial Services | Report Profit |
| CM2: 90% of customers rate service as very good or excellent | 90% |
| CM3: 100% of internal audits completed | 100% |
| F1: Staff costs ratio of under 50% | 50% |
| F2: 3 months of operating expenses maintained as reserve levels | 3 months reserves |
| F3: Achieve a clean external audit | Achieve |
| F4: Achieve a surplus of at least £20k | >£20k |
| QB1: Best Bar None | Gold |
| QB2: Green Impact | Very Good |
| QB3: Food Safety Rating | 5* |
Page 10
TIT LOMOOII STUDEPIrn' UNION (A Comp•ny Llmtt•d by Gts•rant4•) TRUSTEES. REPORT ICOKnNUED) For th• Y•ar Ended 31 Juty 2023 Statoment of Trustee•. re•ponsibilltl•• The TnJst8es are also ihe dir8Ctots of Ihe Chailty lor the wrFthes of conyny Lawl afe rnsponsible for panrMJ tr Trustees. Repyt aThJ the finaThia statements in accordance with a01ce law and Unit8d Company law requiros the Trust8es tts prepare finanaal 5talemertts tr e8th swr. Undèr nanY Lv. th• Tjst must apwDve the finan¢i81 statèmants unless Ihoy are satisf18d tho1 they gi¥e # true and f8ir ew ol thè slate of affairs of the Charity orKJ of rt5 itxomry rescrtwees and apIAl.0n ol $our8, in¢luding Its InCc ar expeThJrtw8, for that pentsj. In wEpanng the finanual statwnents. Trustees a r¢quired to.. select suitatde acoiuntirrfj pdiries ¥KI appty them consstenty, ob8erye the m8thrxts 8rKI princie3 of the Chanties SORP IFRS 1021.. makè iudg•ments and accounting estimates that arè reasonablg and prudént,. stale Wer w¢4ble UK AcCOting Stsndards IFRS 1021 have b8en fdlowed, subject to any material preparv the finanoal statements Dn Ihe gcry ccmc•m tSIs is lnapW to prnsume that the Charity will otInUe in LxJsines3. Tntst¢ss ar8 f•SKwts4e lor ke•pry adwu•t• K£tsmtitYJ rK¢rd$ that 8r• suffiaent to Slw and expl8ln the Chartys trans&tS aTh1 disckssè r6asonat4e acojrnty at afty time ihè finCial position of Chary and en8e them to ensure that the financial statt$ comp wth tr CLvnwies ALt 2LK6. They are also spon51ble fL¥ saleguarding Ihe assets of the Charity aThl for taing lor wevents)n aThJ d8toclK) of and olhof reg1.&5. Each of Ihe per30r$8 who a Trustges at the this Trustees, Rewrt apwovgj ha8 cfined thaL $0 lar as that ffustee i% awarn. thei8 is rrt) •¥aftt a1rt mfomwb.on of whth aud6tors arn unaware. arKJ that Truste8 has i•ken al thè Sps that oWt to have bgen taken 83 a Trustee in ordgr to be aware of
ny rdevant aL*I inf0mbabC to estabwl that the Lonty$ auditors ar• aw ofthal 1nfmt1.
Tho aLwJitors. Gwjman Jones LLP. have indicatod willingness to contlnuè in officg. The designat8d Trustees WTI wryise a mots)n rwtMJntiThJ Ihe aL#1itcrfs at a rneeb.ng ol the Trustees. Approved by order of the members of the board of Tntee3 and Sgned on Iheir half ty. Ma¢ K•liy Pre8ident
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
Opinion
We have audited the financial statements of West London Students' Union (the 'charitable company') for the year ended 31 July 2023 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet, the Statement of Cash Flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).
In our opinion the financial statements:
-
give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 July 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure for the year then ended;
-
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
-
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 and Companies Act 2006.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Conclusions relating to going concern
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Page 12
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION (A Company Limited by Guarantee)
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION (CONTINUED)
Other information
The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' Report thereon. The Trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual Report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
We have nothing to report in this regard.
Matters on which we are required to report by exception
We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:
-
the information given in the Trustees' Report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements; or
-
sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or
-
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
-
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.
Responsibilities of trustees
As explained more fully in the Trustees' Responsibilities Statement, the Trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Page 13
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION (CONTINUED)
Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' Report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.
Based on our understanding of the company and industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to industry sector regulations and unethical and prohibited business practices, and we considered the extent to which noncompliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Companies Act 2006, Charities Act 2011, Charity Commission and sector regulations, and UK Tax Legislation. We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls). Appropriate audit procedures in response to these risks were carried. These procedures included:
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Discussions with management, including consideration of known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulation and fraud;
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Reading minutes of meetings of those charged with governance;
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Obtaining and reading correspondence from legal and regulatory bodies including HMRC;
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Identifying and testing journal entries;
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Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in their significant accounting estimates.
We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members; and remained alert to any indications of fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit.
There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion.
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' Report.
Page 14
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION (CONTINUED)
Use of our report
This report is made solely to the charitable company's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and its members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Goodman Jones LLP
Chartered Accountants 29/30 Fitzroy Square London W1T 6LQ
Date: 13-12-23
Goodman Jones LLP are eligible to act as auditors in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
Page 15
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
| Note Income from: Donations and legacies 4 Charitable activities 5 Other trading activities 6 Investments 7 Total income and endowments Expenditure on: Charitable activities 8 Total expenditure Net income/(expenditure) Transfers between funds 18 Net movement in funds Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought forward Net movement in funds Total funds carried forward |
Unrestricted funds 2023 £ 3,015,389 603,296 9,850 907 3,629,442 3,534,379 3,534,379 95,063 (12,850) 82,213 626,702 82,213 708,915 |
Designated funds 2023 £ - - - - - 67,967 67,967 (67,967) 12,850 (55,117) 230,246 (55,117) 175,129 |
Total funds 2023 £ 3,015,389 603,296 9,850 907 3,629,442 3,602,346 3,602,346 27,096 - 27,096 856,948 27,096 884,044 |
Total funds 2022 £ 2,627,061 458,034 14,268 1,158 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3,100,521 | ||||
| 3,071,221 | ||||
| 3,071,221 | ||||
| 29,300 - |
||||
| 29,300 | ||||
| 827,648 29,300 |
||||
| 856,948 |
The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.
The notes on pages 20 to 36 form part of these financial statements.
Page 16
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee) Registered number: 08158543
BALANCE SHEET As at 31 July 2023
| Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 13 Current assets Stocks 14 Debtors 15 Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 16 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Total net assets Charity funds Designated funds 18 Unrestricted funds 18 Total funds |
11,092 1,026,358 249,209 1,286,659 (577,744) |
2023 £ 175,129 175,129 708,915 884,044 884,044 175,129 708,915 884,044 |
13,465 903,526 191,678 1,108,669 (481,967) |
2022 £ 230,246 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 230,246 626,702 |
||||
| 856,948 | ||||
| 856,948 | ||||
| 230,246 626,702 |
||||
| 856,948 |
The entity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006.
The members have not required the entity to obtain an audit for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.
However, an audit is required in accordance with section 144 of the Charities Act 2011.
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.
Page 17
WEST LONDON STUDENTS. UNION IA Company Limited by Guarante•l BALANCE SHEET {CONTINUEDI As at 31 July 2023 The finan(ad sts18nts V+Ere approved and fr)r issue by the Trustees and Sign on their b8haM ty. President Date.. 111 IL/ Loz) The notes pages 20 10 36 fom pwt ofthese f181 s18twnents. Page 18
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
| STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023 |
||
|---|---|---|
| Cash flows from operating activities Net cash used in operating activities Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of tangible fixed assets Net cash 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 The notes on pages 20 to 36 form part of these financial statements |
2023 £ 70,381 (12,850) (12,850) 57,531 191,678 249,209 |
2022 £ (173,374) (29,861) (29,861) (203,235) 394,913 191,678 |
Page 19
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
1. General information
West London Students' Union is a charitable company registered in England and Wales. The registered office is West London Students' Union, St Mary's Road, London, W5 5RF. The objects of the Charity are stated in the Trustees' Report.
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 2015), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006.
West London Students' Union 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.
These financial statements are presented in sterling, the functional currency of the Charity, and rounded to the nearest £.
2.2 Company status
The Charity is a company limited by guarantee. In the event of the Charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the Charity.
2.3 Going concern
After making appropriate enquiries, including assessing ongoing support from the University, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Trustees have considered that the Charity can meet its commitments and liabilities and can continue for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.
2.4 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 Charity 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.
Page 20
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.5 Income
All income is recognised once the Charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably.
Voluntary income includes grants and donations and is recognised in full on the basis of entitlement. Grant income is recognised once the above criteria have been met, together with any performance conditions attached to the grant. Grant income received is deferred only when the Charity has yet to fulfil the performance conditions. Subvention income represent the block grant received from the University of West London (UWL) in respect of the corresponding academic year.
Income from charitable activities includes providing goods and services to members. The income is recognised in full on the basis of entitlement and is stated after discount and VAT where applicable.
Income from fundraising includes hire of facilities, marketing and sponsorship. The income is recognised on the accruals basis.
Donated services or facilities are recognised when the Charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the Charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), general volunteer time is not recognised.
On receipt, donated professional services and facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the Charity which is the amount it would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt.
Income tax recoverable in relation to investment income is recognised at the time the investment income is receivable.
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.
2.6 Interest receivable
Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the institution with whom the funds are deposited.
2.7 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 is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.
Page 21
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.7 Expenditure (continued)
Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs.
2.8 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation
Tangible fixed assets costing £500 or more are capitalised.
A review for impairment of a fixed asset is carried out if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of any fixed asset may not be recoverable. Shortfalls between the carrying value of fixed assets and their recoverable amounts are recognised as impairments. Impairment losses are recognised in the Statement of financial activities incorporating income and expenditure account.
Tangible fixed assets are carried at cost, net of depreciation and any provision for impairment.
Depreciation is provided on the following bases:
| Freehold property | - 50 years on cost |
|---|---|
| Fixtures and fittings | - 25% on cost |
| Office equipment | - 25% on cost |
| Computer equipment | - 25% on cost |
2.9 Operating leases
Rentals under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities incorporating income and expenditure account on a straight line basis over the lease term.
Benefits received and receivable as an incentive to sign an operating lease are recognised on a straight line basis over the period until the date the rent is expected to be adjusted to the prevailing market rate.
2.10 Stocks
Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value after making due allowance for obsolete and slow-moving stocks. Cost includes all direct costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads.
2.11 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.
2.12 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.
Page 22
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
2. Accounting policies (continued)
2.13 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 Charity 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.
Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities as a finance cost.
2.14 Financial instruments
The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
2.15 Operating leases
Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight line basis over the lease term.
2.16 Pensions
The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the Charity to the fund in respect of the year.
3. Critical accounting estimates and areas of judgement
Estimates and judgements 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 Charity makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates and assumptions will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. Trustees have not identified any 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 23
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
4. Income from donations and legacies
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Subvention grant 1,681,000 Special projects grant 467,000 Other grants 121,973 Donated serviced premises 745,416 External grants - 3,015,389 Total 2022 2,627,061 5. Income from charitable activities Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Licensed Bar and Coffee Shop 444,415 Entertainment Programme 14,938 Merchandise 26,275 Sports and Societies 117,668 603,296 Total 2022 458,034 |
Total funds 2023 £ 1,681,000 467,000 121,973 745,416 - 3,015,389 2,627,061 Total funds 2023 £ 444,415 14,938 26,275 117,668 603,296 458,034 |
Total funds 2022 £ 1,472,000 280,000 127,739 730,800 16,522 |
|---|---|---|
| 2,627,061 | ||
| Total funds 2022 £ 315,556 14,546 12,858 115,074 |
||
| 458,034 | ||
Page 24
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
6. Income from other trading activities
Income from fundraising events
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Marketing and sponsorship 9,850 Total 2022 14,268 Investment income Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Investment income 907 Total 2022 1,158 |
Total funds 2023 £ 9,850 14,268 Total funds 2023 £ 907 1,158 |
Total funds 2022 £ 14,268 |
|---|---|---|
| Total funds 2022 £ 1,158 |
||
7. Investment income
Page 25
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
8. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities
Summary by fund type
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Licensed Bar and Coffee Shop 360,230 Entertainment Programme 157,055 Merchandise 13,660 Student Activites 517,006 Student Comms & Reception 405,182 Representation 516,707 Other Staff Salaries & Costs 1,564,539 3,534,379 Total 2022 2,988,955 |
Designated funds 2023 £ 66,077 - - 1,335 555 - - 67,967 82,266 |
Total 2023 £ 426,307 157,055 13,660 518,341 405,737 516,707 1,564,539 3,602,346 3,071,221 |
Total 2022 £ 578,329 73,777 7,149 531,692 243,197 377,848 1,259,229 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3,071,221 | |||
9. Analysis of expenditure on charitable activities by fund type
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Direct costs 2,576,421 Support costs 957,957 (3,534,378) Total 2022 (2,988,955) |
Designated funds 2023 £ 10,240 57,728 (67,968) (82,266) |
Total funds 2023 £ 2,586,661 1,015,685 (3,602,346) (3,071,221) |
Total funds 2022 £ 2,096,058 975,163 |
|---|---|---|---|
| (3,071,221) | |||
Page 26
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
10. Analysis of expenditure by activities
| Licensed Bar and Coffee Shop Entertainment Programme Merchandise Student Activites Student Comms & Reception Representation Other Staff Salaries & Costs Total 2022 |
Activities undertaken directly 2023 £ 218,150 157,055 13,660 518,341 405,737 516,707 757,011 2,586,661 2,096,058 |
Support costs 2023 £ 208,158 - - - - - 807,527 1,015,685 975,163 |
Total funds 2023 £ 426,308 157,055 13,660 518,341 405,737 516,707 1,564,538 3,602,346 3,071,221 |
Total funds 2022 £ 578,329 73,777 7,149 531,692 243,197 377,848 1,259,229 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3,071,221 | ||||
Page 27
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
10. Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued)
Analysis of support costs
| Sabbatical trustees' salaries Depreciation Serviced premises Insurance Printing, postage and stationery Computer costs Bank charges and commission Sundry NUS affliations Legal and professional Travelling and subsistence Audit fee Recruitment costs Bad debts Total 2022 |
Representat ion 2023 £ 73,516 57,718 - - - 16,204 - - 38,000 11,272 4,829 - 6,712 (93) 208,158 215,152 |
Other staff salaries & costs 2023 £ - - 745,420 37,296 10,218 - 2,419 1,974 - - - 10,200 - - 807,527 760,011 |
Total funds 2023 £ 73,516 57,718 745,420 37,296 10,218 16,204 2,419 1,974 38,000 11,272 4,829 10,200 6,712 (93) 1,015,685 975,163 |
Total funds 2022 £ 72,638 74,055 730,800 15,788 828 9,080 1,771 624 36,825 7,320 7,465 10,200 8,489 (720) 975,163 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Page 28
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
11. Staff costs
| Wages and salaries Social security costs Contribution to defined contribution pension schemes |
2023 £ 1,520,343 132,791 151,900 1,805,034 |
2022 £ 1,368,671 121,292 40,623 |
|---|---|---|
| 1,530,586 |
The average number of persons employed by the Charity during the year was as follows:
| Sabbatical Trustees Full time and part time staff Casual staff |
2023 No. 3 36 56 95 |
2022 No. 3 35 48 |
|---|---|---|
| 86 |
The number of employees whose employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was:
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| No. | No. | ||
| In the band £60,001 | - £70,000 | - | 1 |
| In the band £70,001 | - £80,000 | 1 | 1 |
During the year, remuneration including employer's NI and pension contributions totalling £287,936 (2022: £275,689) was incurred in resepct of key management personnel.
Page 29
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
12. Trustees' remuneration and expenses
During the year, under the provisions made in the Charity's Constitution, the following sabbatical trustees received remuneration in respect of their employment contract with the Union:
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||
| Mae Kelly | Remuneration | 24,718 | 3,506 |
| Mae Kelly | Remuneration | - | 20,271 |
| Lewis Dixon | Remuneration | 21,590 | 3,506 |
| Yash Arora | Remuneration | 3,696 | - |
| Stella Webb | Remuneration | - | 21,059 |
| Alessio Di Vito | Remuneration | - | 20,789 |
| Paul Hutchings | Remuneration | 19,816 | 3,506 |
| Ayyan Bebal | Remuneration | 3,696 | - |
During the year ended 31 July 2023, no Trustee expenses have been incurred (2022 - £NIL) .
Page 30
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
13. Tangible fixed assets
| Cost or valuation At 1 August 2022 Additions At 31 July 2023 Depreciation At 1 August 2022 Charge for the year At 31 July 2023 Net book value At 31 July 2023 At 31 July 2022 |
Building improve- ments £ 150,000 - 150,000 7,915 3,000 10,915 139,085 142,085 |
Fixtures and fittings £ 246,491 - 246,491 182,831 55,245 238,076 8,415 63,660 |
Office equipment £ 32,591 8,850 41,441 9,022 9,007 18,029 23,412 23,569 |
Computer equipment £ 2,653 4,000 6,653 1,721 715 2,436 4,217 932 |
Total £ 431,735 12,850 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 444,585 | |||||
| 201,489 67,967 |
|||||
| 269,456 | |||||
| 175,129 | |||||
| 230,246 |
14. Stocks
Merchandise, food and drink
| 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|
| £ | £ |
| 11,092 | 13,465 |
Page 31
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
15. Debtors
| Due within one year Trade debtors Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year Trade creditors Other taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals and deferred income |
2023 £ 1,014,704 11,654 - 1,026,358 2023 £ 393,175 1,736 102,541 80,292 577,744 |
2022 £ 882,930 1,527 19,069 |
|---|---|---|
| 903,526 | ||
| 2022 £ 305,495 11,210 99,653 65,609 |
||
| 481,967 |
16. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year
17. Financial instruments
| 2023 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Financial assets | ||
| Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure | 249,209 | 191,678 |
Financial assets measured at fair value through income and expenditure comprise cash balances.
Page 32
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
18. Statement of funds
Statement of funds - current year
| Balance at 1 August 2022 £ Unrestricted funds General Funds 626,702 Designated funds Fixed assets 230,246 Total funds 856,948 |
Income £ 3,629,442 - 3,629,442 |
Expenditure £ (3,534,379) (67,967) (3,602,346) |
Transfers in/out £ Balance at 31 July 2023 £ (12,850) 708,915 12,850 175,129 - 884,044 |
Transfers in/out £ Balance at 31 July 2023 £ (12,850) 708,915 12,850 175,129 - 884,044 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 175,129 | ||||
| 884,044 |
Page 33
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
18. Statement of funds (continued)
Statement of funds - prior year
| Unrestricted funds General Funds Designated funds Fixed assets Minimum reserves Total funds |
Balance at 1 August 2021 £ 374,997 282,651 170,000 452,651 827,648 |
Income £ 3,100,521 - - - 3,100,521 |
Expenditure £ (2,988,955) (82,266) - (82,266) (3,071,221) |
Transfers in/out £ 140,139 29,861 (170,000) (140,139) - |
Balance at 31 July 2022 £ 626,702 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 230,246 - |
|||||
| 230,246 | |||||
| 856,948 |
Designated funds:
Capital/fixed assets fund reflects the net book value of fixed assets and reflects the importance of fixed assets to the Charity.
Minimum reserves was a designated fund to preserve funds in line with the Charity's reserves policy. During the prior year, the Trustees undesignated these funds due to the overall level of reserves of the Charity.
19. Analysis of net assets between funds
Analysis of net assets between funds - current year
| Unrestricted funds 2023 £ Tangible fixed assets - Current assets 1,286,659 Creditors due within one year (577,744) Total 708,915 |
Designated funds 2023 £ 175,129 - - 175,129 |
Total funds 2023 £ 175,129 1,286,659 (577,744) |
|---|---|---|
| 884,044 |
Page 34
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
19. Analysis of net assets between funds (continued)
Analysis of net assets between funds - prior year
| Unrestricted funds 2022 Designated funds 2022 £ £ Tangible fixed assets - 230,246 Current assets 1,108,669 - Creditors due within one year (481,967) - Total 626,702 230,246 20. Reconciliation of net movement in funds to net cash flow from operating activities 2023 £ Net income for the year (as per Statement of Financial Activities) 27,096 Adjustments for: Depreciation charges 67,967 Decrease/(increase) in stocks 2,373 Increase in debtors (122,832) Increase in creditors 95,777 Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities 70,381 21. Analysis of cash and cash equivalents 2023 £ Cash in hand 249,209 Total cash and cash equivalents 249,209 |
Total funds 2022 £ 230,246 1,108,669 (481,967) 856,948 2022 £ 29,300 82,266 (1,728) (541,348) 258,136 (173,374) 2022 £ 191,678 191,678 |
|---|---|
Page 35
(A Company Limited by Guarantee)
WEST LONDON STUDENTS' UNION
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended 31 July 2023
22. Analysis of changes in net debt
| Cash at bank and in hand | At 1 August 2022 £ 191,678 191,678 |
Cash flows £ 57,531 57,531 |
At 31 July 2023 £ 249,209 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 249,209 |
23. Pension commitments
The Charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the Charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the Charity to the fund and amounted to £151,800 (2022 - £40,623). Contributions totalling £nil were payable (2022 - £5,118) to the fund at the balance sheet date and are included in creditors.
24. Operating lease commitments
At 31 July 2023 the Charity had commitments to make future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases as follows:
| Gym equipment Not later than 1 year Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years |
2023 £ 32,514 8,128 40,642 |
2022 £ 32,514 40,642 |
|---|---|---|
| 73,156 |
25. Related party transactions
The controlling parties of the Union are the Trustees by virtue of their position as members of the Trustee Board.
The Union receives a substantial part of its income by means of grant funding from the University. This funding amounted to £3,015,389 (2022: £2,610,538) of revenue funding in the year under review, which includes £745,420 (2022: £730,800) in respect of serviced premises provided. The Trustee Board is of the opinion that this financial assistance is not an influencing factor with regard to the formation of the Union's policy setting.
At the balance sheet date, the University owed an amount to the Student Union of £1,001,748 (2022: £878,809), and the Student Union owed an amount to the University of £235,897 (2022: £189,602).
Page 36