COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 08128922
CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1149347
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee Unaudited financial statements
31 March 2024
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Financial statements
Year ended 31 March 2024
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) | 1 |
| Independent examiner's report to the trustees | 11 |
| Statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account) | 12 |
| Balance sheet | 13 |
| Statement of cash flows | 14 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 15 |
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report)
Year ended 31 March 2024
The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2024.
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in notes to the accounts and comply with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011 and Companies Act 2006 and 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 published in October 2019.
Operations Manager's Annual Report Summary:
This year has been a significant period of growth and development for our charity as we continued to expand our reach and enhance our services for children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse.
We responded to increased demand by expanding from one hub in Bury St Edmunds to two, ensuring greater accessibility for local children and families. Our work now spans Norfolk, addressing the challenges posed by rural areas and postcode-related barriers to access, ensuring children and young people across the region are no longer unsupported due to their location.
In April, we partnered with local providers to deliver the Child and Adolescent to Parent Violence and Abuse (CAPVA) project, focusing on early intervention and prevention for children and young people displaying harmful sexual behaviour.
To further enhance our presence in Norfolk, we began hiring a room at the Norwich Wellbeing Centre, initially using the space two days a week. As demand grew, this increased to four days at its peak to manage demand and is now at three days a week. We also established a presence at the Iceni Partnership in Swaffham Community Centre, further strengthening our support network in the county.
To address waiting times and meet rising demand, we expanded our team of skilled practitioners, significantly reducing waiting periods and enabling us to support over 401 children and families across Suffolk and Norfolk during this reporting period. In addition, we recruited an Education and Outreach Officer to develop and deliver early intervention education programs within schools across both counties, securing the necessary funding to sustain this vital work throughout the year.
These accomplishments underline our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child and young person who has experienced sexual abuse receives the support they need. We thank the team, our volunteers, trustees, and our funders, without whom we would not be able to deliver this vital service.
As we look ahead, we are inspired not just to build on this progress but to continue delivering and growing preventative measures and education to ensure the safety and well-being of children and young people.
Kate Grimwood Operations Manager
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued) Year ended 31 March 2024
Reference and administrative details
Registered charity name Brave Futures Charity registration number 1149347 Company registration number 08128922 Principal office and registered 333 Felixstowe Road office Ipswich Suffolk IP3 9BU
The trustees
The trustees who served during the year and at the date of approval were as follows:
S Flory (Chair) K Ahluwalia (Appointed 22/02/24) K Allen J Bettis (Appointed 22/06/23) S Brown (Appointed 22/06/23) E Clifton O Gravell E Silver K Symonds C Horsley (Resigned 29/05/24) D Golding (Resigned 05/03/24) A Huckle (Resigned 21/07/23)
Company secretary E Clifton Independent examiner L Thurston FCCA Lovewell Blake LLP Chartered accountants First Floor Suite 2 Hillside Business Park Bury St Edmunds IP32 7EA Bankers HSBC 12 Tavern Street Ipswich Suffolk IP1 3AZ
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
Objectives and activities
About Brave Futures
Brave Futures is a specialist support service for children and young people, up to the age of 18, who have experienced sexual abuse. Each child or young person is given a dedicated one-to-one Practitioner, and we create for each of them a bespoke treatment plan. Our aim is to give children and young people the skills and coping mechanisms they need to re-build their futures, to manage the trauma they have experienced and to help them to move from victim to survivor.
Our purpose
The charity's stated objectives per the governing document are:
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To provide relief to children whose lives have been affected by sexual abuse.
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To provide relief to their parents and carers.
Our background
The charity was first established as Fresh Start new beginnings in 2012 by Diana Porter MBE, initially with a small staff who worked, often on a completely voluntary basis, to provide a service for children and young people in Suffolk. The organisation has expanded significantly in the years since then. In 2015 we offered a service in Norfolk for the first time and today we provide a service in six locations across Norfolk and four in Suffolk. We also now employ 23 staff across both counties, including 15 frontline Practitioners.
Our vision
We work tirelessly so that all children and young people who are the victims of sexual abuse or exploitation can:
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Have access to the appropriate support.
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Have the reassurance that they will be listened to and believed.
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Have the opportunity to feel safe again.
We aim to educate society because every child has the right to a childhood free from sexual abuse.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
Achievements and performance
How we work
Each young person who is referred to us is offered an initial meeting where a detailed assessment of their physical, emotional and mental health needs is carried out by one of our specialist Practitioners. The Practitioner also assesses the needs of the parent/carer or sibling(s). They then put together a tailored treatment plan with the young person before one-to-one sessions begin.
The aim of the sessions is to build a trusted relationship with each child or young person. In many cases, the young person has already spoken to multiple agencies and organisations and in some cases, they have been dismissed or not believed. Our aim is to help them make sense of what has happened, to show them that what has happened is not their fault and to help diminish their feelings of guilt and shame.
The sessions look at their triggers, worries and anxieties and we teach them coping mechanisms to help them to manage these. We look at the grooming techniques used by perpetrators (this is age dependent) and we spend a lot of time working towards improving the young person's confidence and self-esteem.
The children and young people we support come to us with a wide range of symptoms, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, suicidal thoughts, poor emotional regulation, eating disorders, self-harm, and substance abuse.
Our aim is to offer the young person a safe space where they can discuss their thoughts, fears and feelings openly with someone who will never be shocked or upset by what they hear. Through our intervention, our aim is to enable the young person to move forward in their lives, leaving the trauma of abuse behind them.
In approximately 90% of the cases we see, the perpetrator is a parent, stepparent or someone who is known to the family. The child or young person is not only dealing with the abuse which has taken place, but the fact that their home life has been torn apart by the perpetrator leaving, and the fallout this can cause within the wider family. In addition, the involvement of the police and other agencies causes a great deal of anxiety and confusion for the victim and their family.
Although we are unable to work with a child until they are safe from their abuser, we believe that early intervention is vital - as the earlier we treat the trauma of sexual abuse, the better the result. By treating children at a young age, their trauma is not carried with them into adulthood, and we can give them the chance to reach their full potential in the future.
This not only has obvious benefits for the child and their family, but also for the whole of society, as it decreases the need for public resources to be spent on dealing with the long-term symptoms of a child's untreated trauma, including a wide range of mental health problems, poor physical health, substance abuse, homelessness and social exclusion and parenting and relationship issues.
How our activities deliver public benefit
Overview
This year has been one of both challenges and successes for Brave Futures. Despite the ongoing difficulties in the economic environment, our charity has made significant strides in expanding its reach and improving its services. This report summarises our key achievements, financial performance, and outlook for 2025.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
During the year, we provided a therapeutic treatment programme for victims of sexual abuse up to the age of 18 years old. Our service is available to all children and young people up to the age of 18, whether or not they are involved in the legal process. In addition, any young person who has previously accessed our service, is able to re-refer themselves up to the age of 21. During this period, we supported 401 children and young people - 223 in Suffolk and 178 in Norfolk.
Our treatment programme uses a range of approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, systemic therapy and psycho-educational work. For smaller children, we use play therapy and art therapy and visual tools, such as sand play, puppets, games, drawing and painting. As part of their sessions, we help the child or young person to put together a worry box or self-soothe box to take away. These are filled with items to comfort or distract them when they feel distressed or anxious.
Nobody leaves our service until we (and they) believe they are ready. By the time a child or young person is ready to leave our service, our aim is that:
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Each child/young person is feeling more positive about themselves and their future.
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Each child/young person is empowered with coping mechanisms to help them to manage their emotions and triggers in the outside world.
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Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, self-harm and substance abuse are absent or significantly reduced.
In addition to the above, during the year we also:
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Provide advice, support and information to parents and carers of children who have been sexually abused, to help them understand and respond to their child's emotions and behaviours and to help them cope with their own emotional responses following their child's disclosure.
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Provided consultation and support for parents, carers, teachers and other professionals in spotting the signs and symptoms of child sexual abuse and harmful sexual behaviours.
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Provided support to families who needed our help with the cost of transport to and from sessions.
Although our service is free to all families, recognising the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on many families, we have set up a hardship fund to ensure transport costs are not a barrier to accessing our service.
The Trustees have considered the Charity Commissions guidance on public benefit when setting the objectives for the year.
The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 4 of the Charities Act 2011.
Fundraising update
The financial year 2023/24 was one of growth, gratitude, and remarkable achievements for Brave Futures.
Our annual Dragonboat Race in Ipswich broke all records, raising an incredible £40,000. We are immensely thankful to all the teams and participants whose dedication made this possible, as well as the volunteers who supported the event.
This year, we also experienced an unprecedented level of support from trusts and grants, for which we are deeply grateful. Their contributions have been pivotal in enabling us to extend our reach and enhance our services for children and young people.
We were thrilled to welcome a new part-time Community Fundraiser to our team in March, they will help us further engage with supporters and build stronger connections within the community.
As part of the national It's Not Ok campaign to highlight sexual violence, we concluded the week with a professionals' conference attended by over 100 people. This event fostered important discussions, identified gaps in services, and promoted more comprehensive collaboration between services working
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
with children and young people.
Our year was filled with exciting fundraising activities, including the Whole Hog challenge and our festive Christmas Gameshow. Supermarket collections during the festive season were another highlight, with generous shoppers and dedicated volunteers helping raise funds for our work.
We owe a heartfelt thank you to the local businesses and community organisations whose support maximized our efforts and made our events a success. Finally, to our incredible volunteers, who give their time and energy to everything from events to bucket collections-we couldn't do this without you.
Together, we've made a meaningful difference, and we look forward to continuing our vital work in the year ahead.
Key Achievements
Supporting Children in Need
In 2024, we were able to provide vital support to over 400 children, offering counselling, advocacy, and a safe space for recovery. Each of these children and their families received personalised care tailored to their specific needs. Our team of specialists has continued to work tirelessly to help young survivors of sexual abuse rebuild their lives.
Office Relocations
In the past year, we have successfully moved into new offices in Ipswich, which provides us with an improved environment for our staff and the families we support. Additionally, we have secured new office space in Norwich, allowing us to expand our services in the region and reach more children and families in need.
Steady Financial Position
Despite the difficult operating conditions, we are pleased to report that our financial reserves remain stable. We have worked diligently to ensure that we maintain a robust financial position, which enables us to continue delivering essential services to children without disruption.
Sustained Income Stream
Our income streams have increased compared to last year, thanks to the continued support of our donors, partners, and the community. We are confident that we are well-positioned for 2025, with expectations of a stable income stream moving forward, providing a solid foundation for growth and sustainability.
Financial Overview
Income: Our income has improved compared to last year despite the challenging external conditions, reflecting the unwavering support from our donors and fundraising efforts.
Expenditure: We have continued to invest in expanding our services, including staffing, training, and office space, ensuring that we can provide high-quality support for all children referred to us.
Reserves: Our reserves have remained strong and stable, allowing us to plan for future growth and ensure the sustainability of our operations.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
Outlook for 2025
Looking ahead, we remain optimistic about the future of the charity. With new office spaces in Ipswich and Norwich, and continued financial stability, we are well-equipped to extend our services to even more children across the region. We are committed to increasing our outreach, strengthening our partnerships, and ensuring that our services remain free, confidential, and accessible to all children in need of support.
We are excited to continue our work and to meet the growing demand for our services in the year ahead. Our focus will remain on providing compassionate care, raising awareness of children's rights, and advocating for systemic change to prevent abuse.
Conclusion
Despite facing a year of economic challenges, Brave futures has had a solid year of growth and impact. We have been able to expand our physical presence, support hundreds of children, and ensure our financial health is strong as we head into 2025. We remain deeply committed to our mission and are grateful for the ongoing support of our donors, volunteers, and partners. Together, we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children we serve.
Financial review
During the year total donations and grants amounted to £269,068 (2023: £248,256) up 8% on the previous year, of which £129,493 (2023: £187,625) was for restricted purposes. A full breakdown of the origins of all the restricted funds received is provided within the notes to these accounts.
Total incoming resources amounted to £739,860 (2023: £622,346) and after deduction of the charity's costs there was a deficit for the year of £49,204 (2023: £20,283). There is restricted funding of £82,535 (2023: £108,449) carried forward to be spent for specific purposes over the coming months.
The charity remains in a healthy cash position with a balance of £374,040 (2023: £412,432) as at the yearend date. The trustees feel that it continues to be well placed to build on its past work and to reach out to more and more children in need across the two counties.
Investment powers and policy
The charity does not have significant reserves to invest, and any cash balances are held in the current and deposit bank accounts with the charity's main banker. This policy is renewed annually.
Reserves policy
The board of trustees has established a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not committed or invested in tangible free assets ("the free reserves") held by the charity should be six months of the resources expended. At this level the board feels that it would be able to continue activities of the charity in the event of a significant drop in income. Having considered the growth in expenditure over the year this equates to £394,532 (2023: £321,314). The current level of free reserves is £338,132 (2023: £357,100).
The trustees annually review the reserves policy, its adequacy and the continuing income streams and budgeted expenses to ensure the charity is able to deliver on its projects for the foreseeable future, as part of this the trustees are seeking to reduce the reserve deficit in the upcoming years.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
Plans for future periods
The charity has been successful in acquiring an Ipswich office site which will support several opportunities in our delivery across Suffolk. This new premises offers a great variety of space for client interventions whilst also providing a central base for teams to work from. Mobilisation of the new location will continue whilst also creating opportunities for improvements for this new site and further grow our services utilising this much needed hub and asset. The location of the new hub is within the centre of Ipswich and situates the charity near to partner organisations which will further support growth and opportunities. The Norfolk service has grown in its recognition across the county, there is a need to replicate the central hub model in the Norwich locality. Securing a central site for Norfolk teams to work from whilst also offering a vital central hub for children and young people in the area will be a focus for the year ahead.
The charity has continued to embed the NSPCC's alternative therapeutic programme, which is entitled Letting the Future In (LTFI). The adoption of this programme has been rewarding to both clients and the service delivery team. The team have grown in confidence since the introduction of this programme which brings reassurance in relation to the quality of the content and delivery model as this is endorsed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). The programme model aligned with what was used before and shared similarities which has resulted in a smooth transition of delivery. Delivery staff continue to complete the required accredited training whilst also working closely with the NSPCC ensuring the future quality of delivery.
Focus on the quality and reach of delivery is key however the charity recognises the work required to raise awareness on the subject of child sexual abuse. Following the recruitment of two Education and Outreach Officers the charity has been able to further develop content and resources appropriate for awareness and education in school settings. By locating this team across both counties alongside a targeted approach on engagement with key stakeholders we have gained valuable insight for future strategic planning of awareness activities. The charity has been fortunate to have received professional insight and support whilst creating appropriate resources which will be utilised in the future delivery of our education programme in the coming year.
The Marketing and Fundraising Team have played a key role in sustaining a presence across community and corporate settings which has resulted in superb engagement and funding opportunities. The coming year will see the charity further grow the recognition and awareness of the charity's services ensuring more children and young people gain valuable support from our service team across both Norfolk and Suffolk.
Above all else, the charity will continue to focus itself on guaranteeing the future continuation of the service it provides and will provide that service to the maximum number of children and young people that it possibly can.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
Structure, governance and management
The charity is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. The charity was incorporated on 3 July 2012 and commenced operations thereafter. The trustees are responsible for making decision on all matters of general concern and importance, including deciding on how the funds are to be spent. A subcommittee exists to set the remuneration of key personnel.
All charity information and registered numbers can be found on the legal and administrative information page, along with the trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year.
None of the trustees have a beneficial interest in the company, and all of the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.
Recruitment and appointment of trustees
New trustees are appointed from a recruitment and selection process to enhance the skills and experience of the board as a whole. Once appointed, trustees are provided with all the information required to assist them in performing their role as trustees covering all aspects of the organisation.
Trustee induction and training
Following an induction by the charity, Larking Gowen provide trustees with training regarding the responsibilities of being a charity trustee. If trustees request or require further input, then the charity would arrange for them to attend external training as appropriate. All trustees undertake safeguarding training.
Related parties
The charity's relevant related party transactions are described in the notes of these accounts.
Risk assessment
The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. This work has identified the loss of personnel as a major risk which is addressed through succession planning.
Independent examiner reappointment
A resolution to appoint L Thurston FCCA of Lovewell Blake LLP as independent examiner will be proposed at the next relevant board meeting.
Small company provisions
This report has been prepared taking advantage of the small companies' exemption of section 415A of the Companies Act 2006.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the directors' report) (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
20/12/2024 The trustees' annual report was approved on .............................. and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by:
S Flory (Chair) Trustee
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Brave Futures
Year ended 31 March 2024
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the financial statements of the company for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account), balance sheet, statement of cash flows and the related notes.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity trustees of the company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act’).
Having satisfied myself that the financial statements of the company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your company's financial statements as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since 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. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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accounting records were not kept in respect of the company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or
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the financial statements do not accord with those records; or
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the financial statements do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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the financial statements have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
L Thurston FCCA Independent Examiner
Lovewell Blake LLP Chartered accountants First Floor Suite 2 Hillside Business Park Bury St Edmunds IP32 7EA 20/12/2024
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account)
Year ended 31 March 2024
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | ||||
| funds | funds | Total funds | Total funds | ||
| Note | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income | |||||
| Donations | 5 | 139,575 | 129,493 | 269,068 | 248,256 |
| Charitable activities | 9,004 | 406,308 | 415,312 | 353,451 | |
| Income from fundraising | 44,956 | 4,690 | 49,646 | 19,168 | |
| Investment income | 6 | 5,834 | – | 5,834 | 1,471 |
|
|
|
|
||
| Total income | 199,369 | 540,491 | 739,860 | 622,346 | |
|
|
|
|
||
| Expenditure | |||||
| Raising funds | |||||
| Cost of fundraising | 85,436 | 1,296 | 86,732 | 85,549 | |
| Charitable activities | 7 | 137,223 | 565,109 | 702,332 | 557,080 |
|
|
|
|
||
| Total expenditure | 222,659 | 566,405 | 789,064 | 642,629 | |
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
||
| Net expenditure and net movement in funds | (23,290) | (25,914) | (49,204) | (20,283) | |
|
|
|
|
||
| Reconciliation of funds | |||||
| Total funds brought forward | 379,508 | 108,449 | 487,957 | 508,240 | |
|
|
|
|
||
| Total funds carried forward | 356,218 | 82,535 | 438,753 | 487,957 | |
|
|
|
|
The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.
The notes on pages 15 to 25 form part of these financial statements.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Balance sheet
31 March 2024
| 2024 | 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Fixed assets | |||||
| Tangible fixed assets | 10 | 18,086 | 22,408 | ||
| Current assets | |||||
| Debtors | 11 | 65,145 | 68,493 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 374,040 | 412,432 | |||
| | | ||||
| 439,185 | 480,925 | ||||
| Creditors: Amounts falling due within | |||||
| one year | 12 | (18,518) | (15,376) | ||
| | | ||||
| Net current assets | 420,667 | 465,549 | |||
| | | ||||
| Total assets less current liabilities | 438,753 | 487,957 | |||
| | | ||||
| Net assets | 438,753 | 487,957 | |||
| | | ||||
| Funds of the charity | |||||
| Restricted funds | 82,535 | 108,449 | |||
| Unrestricted funds | 356,218 | 379,508 | |||
| | | ||||
| Total charity funds | 14 | 438,753 |
487,957 |
For the year ending 31 March 2024 the charity was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Directors' responsibilities:
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The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476;
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The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime.
These financial statements were approved by the board of trustees and authorised for issue on ........................, and are signed on behalf of the board by: 20/12/2024
S Flory (Chair) Trustee
Company registration number: 08128922
The notes on pages 15 to 25 form part of these financial statements.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Statement of cash flows
Year ended 31 March 2024
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Cash flows from operating activities | ||
| Net expenditure | (49,204) | (20,283) |
| Adjustments for: | ||
| Depreciation of tangible fixed assets | 8,644 | 7,305 |
| Other interest receivable and similar income | (5,834) | (1,471) |
| Interest payable and similar charges | 368 | 421 |
| Accrued expenses | 720 | 768 |
| Changes in: | ||
| Trade and other debtors | 3,348 | (50,033) |
| Trade and other creditors | 2,422 | (3,885) |
|
|
|
| Cash generated from operations | (39,536) | (67,178) |
| Interest paid | (368) | (421) |
| Interest received | 5,834 | 1,471 |
|
|
|
| Net cash used in operating activities | (34,070) | (66,128) |
|
|
|
| Cash flows from investing activities | ||
| Purchase of tangible assets | – | (1,084) |
|
|
|
| Net cash used in investing activities | – | (1,084) |
|
|
|
| Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (34,070) | (67,212) |
| Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year | 412,432 | 479,644 |
|
|
|
| Cash and cash equivalents at end of year | 378,362 |
412,432 |
The notes on pages 15 to 25 form part of these financial statements.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements
Year ended 31 March 2024
1. General information
The charity is a public benefit entity and a private company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales and a registered charity in England and Wales. The address of the registered office is 333 Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 9BU.
2. Statement of compliance
The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 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 issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
3. Accounting policies
Basis of preparation
The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity.
Going concern
The accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis as the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist. The trustees have considered the level of funds held and the expected level of income and expenditure for 12 months from authorising these financial statements. The budgeted income and expenditure is sufficient for the charity to be able to continue as a going concern.
Fund accounting
The charity maintains a general unrestricted fund which represents funds which are expended at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the objects of the charity.
Restricted funds have been provided to the charity for particular purposes. The trustees carefully monitor the application of these funds in accordance with the restrictions placed upon them. Details of the nature and purpose of each fund is set out in the notes to these accounts.
Income
All income is included in the statement of financial activities when entitlement has passed to the charity, it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the charity and the amount can be reliably measured. Voluntary income is received by way of grants, donations and gifts and is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities when the recognition criteria is met.
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Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
3. Accounting policies (continued)
Expenditure
Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered and is classified under headings of the statement of financial activities to which it relates.
Fundraising costs comprise the costs associated with attracting voluntary income.
Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them.
All costs are allocated to expenditure categories on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resources.
Operating leases
Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against income on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.
Tangible assets
Tangible assets are initially recorded at cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.
Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost or valuation of an asset, less its residual value, over the useful economic life of that asset as follows:
Freehold property - 10% straight line Computer equipment - 25% straight line
Financial instruments
A financial asset or a financial liability is recognised only when the entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the amount receivable or payable including any related transaction costs, unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where it is recognised at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest for a similar debt instrument.
Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or received and not discounted.
Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised cost.
- 16 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
4. Limited by guarantee
The charity is a company limited by guarantee. The members of the company are the trustees named on the legal and administration information page. 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.
5. Donations
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | 2024 | |||
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Donations | |||||
| Individual and corporate donations | 139,575 | 9,956 | 149,531 | ||
| Grants | |||||
| Grants | – | 119,537 | 119,537 | ||
|
|
|
|||
| 139,575 | 129,493 | 269,068 | |||
|
|
|
|||
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |||
| Funds | Funds | 2023 | |||
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Donations | |||||
| Individual and corporate donations | 60,631 | 50,000 | 110,631 | ||
| Grants | |||||
| Grants | – | 137,625 | 137,625 | ||
|
|
|
|||
| 60,631 | 187,625 | 248,256 | |||
|
|
|
|||
| 6. | Investment income | ||||
| Unrestricted | Total Funds | Unrestricted | Total Funds | ||
| Funds | 2024 | Funds | 2023 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Bank interest receivable | 5,834 | 5,834 | 1,471 | 1,471 | |
|
|
|
|
- 17 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
7. Expenditure on charitable activities
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Salaries | 28,389 | 509,691 | 538,080 |
| Recruitment | 3,639 | – | 3,639 |
| Rent and rates | – | 13,012 | 13,012 |
| Other premises and room hire | 17,359 | 23,804 | 41,163 |
| Professional fees | 19,292 | – | 19,292 |
| Independent examination fee | 2,880 | – | 2,880 |
| Travel and expenses | 5,947 | 17,086 | 23,033 |
| Printing, postage and stationery | 6,322 | – | 6,322 |
| Sundry | 7,047 | – | 7,047 |
| Insurance | 3,327 | – | 3,327 |
| IT and telecommunications | 21,483 | 1,516 | 22,999 |
| Training | 13,220 | – | 13,220 |
| Marketing | 3,628 | – | 3,628 |
| Bank charges | 368 | – | 368 |
| Depreciation | 4,322 | – | 4,322 |
|
|
|
|
| 137,223 | 565,109 | 702,332 | |
|
|
|
|
| Unrestricted | Restricted | Total Funds | |
| Funds | Funds | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Salaries | 42,545 | 392,642 | 435,187 |
| Recruitment | 2,607 | – | 2,607 |
| Rent and rates | – | 13,036 | 13,036 |
| Other premises and room hire | 7,719 | 15,359 | 23,078 |
| Professional fees | 12,628 | – | 12,628 |
| Independent examination fee | 2,818 | – | 2,818 |
| Travel and expenses | 8,932 | 9,164 | 18,096 |
| Printing, postage and stationery | 7,420 | – | 7,420 |
| Sundry | 4,969 | – | 4,969 |
| Insurance | 2,980 | – | 2,980 |
| IT and telecommunications | 18,136 | – | 18,136 |
| Training | 6,110 | – | 6,110 |
| Marketing | 2,289 | – | 2,289 |
| Bank charges | 421 | – | 421 |
| Depreciation | 7,305 | – | 7,305 |
|
|
|
|
| 126,879 | 430,201 | 557,080 | |
|
|
|
- 18 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
8. Staff costs
The total staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as follows:
| 2024 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Wages and salaries | 539,358 | 454,229 |
| Social security costs | 42,080 | 34,836 |
| Pension costs | 10,257 | 8,174 |
|
|
|
| 591,695 | 497,239 | |
|
|
|
| Expended as: | ||
| 2024 | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | |
| Fundraising costs | 53,615 | 62,052 |
| Expenditure on charitable activities | 538,080 | 435,187 |
|
|
|
| 591,695 | 497,239 | |
|
|
The average head count of employees during the year was 22 (2023: 20) and no employee received employee benefits of more than £60,000 during the year (2023: Nil).
Key management personnel
The employment costs above, include key management personnel compensation totalling £47,011 (2023: £52,432) during the year.
9. Trustee remuneration and expenses
No trustees received any remuneration for their services as trustees, nor were reimbursed for expenses incurred as trustees in this or the prior year.
10. Tangible fixed assets
| Freehold | Computer | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| property | equipment | Total | |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Cost | |||
| At 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024 | 22,508 | 21,796 | 44,304 |
|
|
|
|
| Depreciation | |||
| At 1 April 2023 | 3,189 | 18,707 | 21,896 |
| Charge for the year | 2,251 | 2,071 | 4,322 |
|
|
|
|
| At 31 March 2024 | 5,440 | 20,778 | 26,218 |
|
|
|
|
| Carrying amount | |||
| At 31 March 2024 | 17,068 | 1,018 | 18,086 |
|
|
|
|
| At 31 March 2023 | 19,319 |
3,089 |
22,408 |
- 19 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
| 11. | Debtors | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Trade debtors | 63,250 | 66,729 | |
| Prepayments and accrued income | 1,895 | 1,764 | |
|
|
||
| 65,145 | 68,493 | ||
|
|
||
| 12. | Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year | ||
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Trade creditors | 663 | 418 | |
| Accruals and deferred income | 3,360 | 2,640 | |
| Social security and other taxes | 11,946 | 10,177 | |
| Other creditors | 2,549 | 2,141 | |
|
|
||
| 18,518 | 15,376 | ||
|
|
||
| 13. | Deferred income | ||
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| At 1 April 2023 | – | 3,750 | |
| Amount released to income | – | (3,750) | |
|
|
||
| At 31 March 2024 | – | – | |
|
|
- 20 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
14. Analysis of charitable funds
The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes:
Year ended 31 March 2024
| Restricted funds | At 31 Mar | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| At 1 Apr 2023 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Rotary Club of Ipswich | 1,000 | – | – | – | 1,000 |
| SCF Port Community Fund | 2,000 | 2,000 | (4,000) | – | – |
| Big Lottery | 25,449 | 80,000 | (80,101) | – | 25,348 |
| The Mulberry Trust | 10,000 | (10,000) | – | – | – |
| Norfolk PCC | – | 52,208 | (52,208) | – | – |
| Suffolk PCC | – | 60,000 | (60,000) | – | – |
| Ipswich & North Essex ICB | – | 115,000 | (115,000) | – | – |
| Norfolk & Waveney ICB | – | 80,247 | (80,247) | – | – |
| VAWG Fund | 20,000 | 16,500 | (22,510) | – | 13,990 |
| The Alan Boswell Group | 30,000 | – | (30,000) | – | – |
| Septagon | 20,000 | – | – | – | 20,000 |
| RYPP Project | – | 40,379 | (40,379) | – | – |
| The Geoffrey Watling Charity | – | 5,000 | (5,000) | – | – |
| Sue Lambert RASASF | – | 22,394 | (22,394) | – | – |
| Lady Hind | – | 2,000 | (2,000) | – | – |
| Annie Tranmer | – | 2,000 | – | – | 2,000 |
| NCF Community Cares Fund | – | 4,280 | – | – | 4,280 |
| Simon Gibson | – | 5,000 | – | – | 5,000 |
| Screwfix Foundation | – | 4,690 | – | – | 4,690 |
| Rope Trust | – | 2,218 | – | – | 2,218 |
| Adnams Community Fund | – | 2,062 | (2,062) | – | – |
| SCF Birketts Fund | – | 2,062 | (2,062) | – | – |
| SCF Private Fund | – | 2,062 | (2,062) | – | – |
| SCF Technology Network Fund | – | 2,000 | (2,000) | – | – |
| SCF Giving & Private Fund | – | 2,062 | (2,062) | – | – |
| Rape & Sexual Abuse Support | |||||
| Fund | – | 36,080 | (36,080) | – | – |
| Crane Fund | – | 2,738 | (2,738) | – | – |
| David Family Foundation | – | 3,500 | (3,500) | – | – |
| Co-Op Community Cares Fund | – | 4,009 | – | – | 4,009 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 108,449 | 540,491 | (566,405) | – | 82,535 | |
|
|
|
|
|
- 21 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
| Year ended 31 March 2023 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restricted funds | At 31 Mar | ||||
| At 1 Apr 2022 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Rotary Club of Ipswich Fund | 1,000 | – | – | – | 1,000 |
| SCF Port Community Fund | – | 2,000 | – | – | 2,000 |
| Big Lottery | 25,075 | 100,000 | (99,626) | – | 25,449 |
| The Mulberry Trust | – | 10,000 | – | – | 10,000 |
| Norfolk PCC | – | 52,204 | (52,204) | – | – |
| Suffolk PCC | – | 60,000 | (60,000) | – | – |
| Ipswich & North Essex ICB | – | 115,000 | (115,000) | – | – |
| Norfolk & Waveney ICB | – | 85,000 | (85,000) | – | – |
| Community Ambition | – | 22,500 | (22,500) | – | – |
| VAWG Fund | – | 20,000 | – | – | 20,000 |
| The Alan Boswell Group | – | 30,000 | – | – | 30,000 |
| Septagon | – | 20,000 | – | – | 20,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 26,075 | 516,704 | (434,330) | – | 108,449 | |
|
|
|
|
|
Unrestricted funds
| At 31 Mar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| At 1 Apr 2023 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 2024 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General Funds | 379,508 | 199,369 | (222,659) | – | 356,218 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| At 31 Mar | |||||
| At 1 Apr 2022 | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | 2023 | |
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| General Funds | 287,165 | 105,642 | (208,299) | 195,000 | 379,508 |
| Designated Funds | 195,000 | – | – | (195,000) | – |
|
|
|
|
|
|
482,165 |
105,642 |
(208,299) |
– |
379,508 |
The following grants were provided and are restricted for the purposes as stated below:
Rotary Club of Ipswich: To assist with the publication of a book.
SCF Port Community fund: To fund work with a sexually abused child in Felixstowe.
Big Lottery fund: To contribute towards the core costs of providing a service to sexually abused children.
The Mulberry Trust: To fund the provision of group work.
Norfolk Police & Crime Commissioner: To support work with sexually abused children in Norfolk.
Suffolk Police & Crime Commissioner: Costs of direct work with sexually abused children in Suffolk.
Ipswich & North Essex ICB: Provision of a treatment service for the victims of childhood sexual abuse in Suffolk.
Norfolk & Waveney ICB: Provision of a treatment service for the victims of childhood sexual abuse under the age of 11 years in Norfolk and Waveney.
- 22 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
VAWG (Violence Against Women & Girls) Fund: To fund a worker to run an education and awareness project in Suffolk.
The Alan Boswell Group: To fund a Child Sexual Abuse worker in Norfolk.
Septagon: To fund a worker to run an education and awareness project in Norfolk.
RYPP Project: To provide a support service (Changing Futures) for children who are exhibiting harmful sexual behaviours.
The Geoffrey Watling Charity: To fund an education project in Norfolk.
Sue Lambert RASASF: To fund a worker in Norfolk.
Lady Hind: To fund an education project in Norfolk.
Annie Tranmer: To help fund the Changing Futures service.
NCF Community Cares Fund: To fund a girl's group in Norfolk.
Simon Gibson: To fund an education project.
Screwfix Foundation: To renovate the charity's new premises.
Rope Trust: To renovate the charity's new premises.
Adnams Community Fund: To fund 15 sessions in Suffolk.
SCF Birketts Fund: To fund 15 sessions in Suffolk.
SCF Private Fund: To fund 15 sessions in Norfolk.
SCF Technology Network Fund: To fund 15 sessions in Suffolk.
SCF Giving & Private Fund: To fund 15 sessions in Suffolk.
Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Fund: To fund a worker in Suffolk.
Crane Fund: To fund 20 sessions in Suffolk.
David Family Foundation: To fund 20 sessions.
Co-Op Community Cares Fund: To contribute towards the costs of a CSA worker.
The following restricted grants were provided in this or the prior year and have been completed:
Community Ambition: To fund an outreach worker to raise awareness within multi-cultural Suffolk.
Designated funds
As a result of its current premises being scheduled for development in due course, the trustees have sought to designate substantial reserves in previous years and whilst the charity plans to relocate to another premises to rent for a time, the medium to long term aim is to acquire new premises for long term use and to further the objectives of the charity.
- 23 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
However, given the movements in restricted and unrestricted funds during the year, taken together with other factors the trustees feel that maintaining both the 6 months of reserves and the designation for property purchase would not be a prudent use of resources. The trustees feel the immediate paramount is to have the reassurance of 6 months reserves, whilst also optimising resources to reach the maximum number of children in what is a one of increasing demand for services. Accordingly, the designated funds have been transferred to general funds in the prior year and are reviewed annually.
15. Analysis of net assets between funds
Year ended 31 March 2024
| Tangible fixed | Net Current | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| assets | assets | Total | ||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Restricted fund | – | 82,535 | 82,535 | |
| Unrestricted funds: | ||||
| General funds | 18,086 | 338,132 | 356,218 | |
|
|
|
||
| 18,086 | 420,667 | 438,753 | ||
|
|
|
||
| Year ended 31 March 2023 | ||||
| Tangible fixed | Net Current | |||
| assets | assets | Total | ||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Restricted fund | – | 108,449 | 108,449 | |
| Unrestricted funds: | ||||
| General funds | 22,408 | 357,100 | 379,508 | |
|
|
|
||
| 22,408 | 465,549 | 487,957 | ||
|
|
|
||
| 16. | Analysis of changes in net debt | |||
| At | ||||
| At 1 Apr 2023 | Cash flows | 31 Mar 2024 | ||
| £ | £ | £ | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 412,432 | (38,392) | 374,040 | |
|
|
|
||
| 17. | Operating lease commitments | |||
| The total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows: | ||||
| 2024 | 2023 | |||
| £ | £ | |||
| Not later than 1 year | 6,933 |
7,328 |
- 24 -
Brave Futures
Company Limited by Guarantee
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
Year ended 31 March 2024
18. Related parties
During the year the charity received donations from Hudson Media Partnership Ltd of £490 (2023: £Nil). The charity also paid Hudson Media Partnership Ltd amounts totalling £2,660 (2023: £Nil). The Trustee S Flory is also a director of Hudson Media Partnership Ltd.
There were no other related party transactions in this or the prior year.
- 25 -