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← Black Ethnic Skills & Training Initiatives

2023-04-30-accounts

Registered Charity No: 1150122

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

CONTENTS

Page number

1 Legal and administrative information
2-3 Trustees report
4 Independent examination report
5 Statement of financial activities
6 Statement of financial position
7-9 Notes forming part of the financial statements

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Registered office Registered Charity number Banker Independent examiner

Godson Ifebueme (Chair) Chinyere Evans Chinyere Okolo Unit 6 Vance Business Park GATESHEAD Tyne And Wear NE11 9NE 1150122

HSBC Bank

Olu Alatise AFA MIPA Lagos Accountancy Services UK Ujima House 97-107 Wilder Street Bristol BS2 8QU

1

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

TRUSTEES REPORT

The trustees presents its report and the unaudited financial statements for the year ended 30th April 2023. The trustees have adopted the provisions of 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).

Constitution and objectives

The objects of the Charity are to relief unemployment for the beneift of the public including assisting to find employment and to act as a resource for young people up to the age of 18, providing advice and assistance and organising programmes of physical, educational and other activities to advance life and education.

Key Projects of 2022/23.

During this period, BEST Initiatives has proudly executed several key projects, each uniquely contributing to our overarching goal of empowering and supporting diverse communities. Here is a snapshot of these pivotal initiatives.

•Fatheritage Oral History Project: Aimed to capture the first-time experiences of African men as fathers in Newcastle, focusing on their rites of passage and the impact of globalization on their traditions.

Conclusion

This report not only reflects the achievements and financial stewardship of BEST Initiatives but also encapsulates our journey through a year of growth, challenges, and profound impact.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to our success and reaffirm our commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives we touch.

For a detailed exploration of our projects, financial accounts, and our vision for the future, we invite you to delve further into this report and the addendum.

2

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

TRUSTEES REPORT (Continued)

Financial review for the year, policy and reserve

The income of the charity increased from £76,117 in 2022 to £76,677 in 2023. Closing funds of the charity has fallen from £43,339 to £28,690 in 2023.

Risk assessment

The major risks to which the charity is exposed as identified by the Trustees have been uncertainties in funding as volunteering could be impeded due to insufficient funds. There’s also high staff turnover within the charity sector and the Trustees have identified charities' salary structure as the potential reason. It’s not competitive. Also, failure to quickly identify the right opportunities that are income self-generating for our operations may hinder our future prospects. Equally, going forward the inability or failure to implement and achieve agreed strategic outcomes and performances required to meet our partners’ expectations and requirements may constitute a stumbling block.

Therefore, to mitigate the above risks, we are particularly and increasingly focused on driving performance towards achieving our strategic objectives through performance excellence; customer and stakeholders management; expanded community engagement; research and evaluation of income-generating options.

Trustees responsibilities

Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the charity's financial activities during the year and of its financial position at the end of the year. In preparing financial statements giving a true and fair view, the Trustees should follow best practice and :

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the charity and which enable them to ascertain the financial position of the charity and which enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with applicable regulations. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 taking advantage of the exemptions available to small charities.

Approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf

==> picture [92 x 24] intentionally omitted <==

28th February, 2024 Date…..............................................

…......................................... Godson Ifebueme Chair

3

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for the year ended 30th April 2023.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).

I report in respect of my examination of the Charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

lndependent examiners' statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

1) the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act; or 2) the accounts did not accord with the accounting records; or

3) the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 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.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed:

Olu Alatise AFA MIPA Lagos Accountancy Services UK Ujima House 97-107 Wilder Street Bristol BS2 8QU

28th February 2024 Date …...............................

4

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

Notes
Incoming Resources
Donations and Legacies
Other trading activities
Total Income
Resources Expended
Charitable activities
Other expenditures
Total Resources Expended
6
Net income/(deficit) for the year
Reconciliation of funds:
Total funds brought forward
Fund balances carried forward		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
2,000
28
2,028
1,004
1,411
2,415
-
387
14,669
14,281		 Restricted
Funds
£
74,649
-
74,649
36,975
51,936
88,911
-
14,262
28,670
14,408
2023		 Total
Funds
£
76,649
28
76,677
37,980
53,347
91,327
-
14,649
43,339
28,690		 Total Funds
2022
£
73,517
2,600
76,117
15,644
33,325
48,969
27,148
16,191
43,339

5

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

BALANCE SHEET

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

Notes
£
£
Fixed Assets
Tangible fixed assets
2
4,587
Total fixed assets
4,587
Current Assets
Cash at Bank
22,272
Other debtors
3
2,587
Total current assets
24,859
Creditors due within one year
4
757
Net Assets
28,690
Funds of the Charity
Restricted funds
14,408
Unrestricted funds
14,281
28,690
2023		 £
5,130
2022
5,130
36,616
2,169
38,785
576
43,339
28,670
14,669
43,339

Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees

….............................. Godson Ifebueme

Date : 28th February, 2024

Chair

6

BLACK ETHNIC SKILLS & TRAINING INITIATIVES

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH APRIL 2023

1. Accounting policies

(a) Basis of accounting : The financial statements of the charity, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, 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 lreland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Charities Act 2011. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with the exception of Investments which are included at market value, as modified by the revaluation of certain assets.

(b) Going concern : At the time of approving the financial statements, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

(c) Donations : Grants and donations are only included in the SoFA when the general income recognition criteria are met (5.10 to 5.12 FRS102 SORP).

(d) Expenditures : Resources expended are recognised in the period in which they are incurred. Resources expended include attributable VAT which cannot be recovered.

(e) Tangible fixed assets : Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of each asset over its expected useful life as follows:

Computer Equipments : 33.33% Reducing balance, Fixtures and Fittings : 33.33% Reducing balance

(f) Charitable funds

(g) Operating leasing commitment : Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

(h) Debtors : Debtors (including trade debtors and loans receivable) are measured on initial recognition at settlement amount after any trade discounts or amount advanced by the charity. Subsequently, they are measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be received.

(i) Creditors : The Charity has creditors which are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts.

(j) Taxation : The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

7

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. Tangible Assets
Cost
As at 1 May 2022
Additions
Disposals
As at 30 April 2023
Depreciation
As at 1 May 2022
Charge for the year
Disposals
As at 30 April 2023
Net Book value
As at 30 April 2023
As at 30 April 2022
3.Debtors and prepayments
Prepayments
4.Creditors: Amount due within one year
Accruals
Other creditors		 Computer
Equipments
£
8,802
1,493
10,295
4,417
1,959
-
6,376
3,919
4,385
2023
£
2,587
2,587
2023
£
475
282
757		 Fixtures &
Fittings
1,116
258
1,374
372
334
706
668
744
2022
£
2,169
2,169
2022
£
375
201
576		 Total
9,918
1,751
-
11,669
-
-
4,788
2,293
-
7,082
-
-
4,587
5,130

5. Transactions with Trustees and related parties

In the year, none of the trustees have been paid any remuneration or received any other benefits from an employment with the charity or a related entity. However salary was paid to V Nwali in line with the constitution who peforms project manager role within the charity. Expenses were also reimbursed in the year to V Nwali.

Bizcentre Ltd which V Nwali is a director of provided training services to the charity in the year.

8

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

6.Total Resources Expended
Covid 19 Relief Materials
Other Charitable Activities
Wages and Salaries
Pension Cost
Rent, Rates & Water
Management and Service Charge
Premises repairs
Volunteer Expenses
Advertising and PR
Office Computer Cost
Telephone & Internet
Printing, Postage & Stationery
Travel & Motor Expenses
Bank Charges & Interest
Sundry
Training and Tutoring
Insurance & Licences
Legal & Professional Fees
Independent Examination
Subscriptions
Light and Heat
Equipment repairs
Depreciation
Total		 2023
Total
£
-
8,176
26,916
542
12,000
1,809
-
820
2,019
235
1,262
61
4,027
15
70
17,965
25
11,019
475
432
1,164
-
2,294
91,327		 2022
Total
£
6,811
-
8,626
81
8,460
1,721
1,100
1,429
100
156
572
-
1,751
51
-
7,404
391
5,675
375
-
1,503
200
2,564		 2022
48,969

9

2022/2023 Trustees Report

Introduction to BEST Initiatives Annual Report and Accounts (2022/23)

Greetings and Overview

Welcome to the comprehensive annual report and financial accounts of BEST Initiatives for the fiscal year 2022/23. This document serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to our mission and the impactful work we have accomplished over the past year. In a period marked by unique challenges and opportunities, BEST Initiatives has continued to thrive, thanks to the dedication of our team, the resilience of our beneficiaries, and the unwavering support of our partners and sponsors.

Key Projects of 2022/23

During this period, BEST Initiatives has proudly executed several key projects, each uniquely contributing to our overarching goal of empowering and supporting diverse communities. Here is a snapshot of these pivotal initiatives:

Aimed to capture the first-time experiences of African men as fathers in Newcastle, focusing on their rites of passage and the impact of globalization on their traditions.

Celebrated the Queen's 70-year reign, focusing on creating a legacy in our communities through intergenerational activities and enhancing social bonding.

Addressed the challenges of lockdown, focusing on intergenerational support, particularly for older women experiencing loneliness, and skill-sharing initiatives like cooking and arts.

Promoted fitness challenges to inspire young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, focusing on goal setting and achievement for physical and mental well-being.

Enhanced our digital capabilities by procuring computers and accessories, supporting our pre-employment and educational support initiatives.

Aimed at covering essential administrative costs, ensuring the smooth operation and expansion of our services.

• Traditional Projects and Activities :

Continued our core initiatives like employability support, childcare assistance, and afterschool mentorship programs, addressing the vital needs of our community.

Conclusion

This report not only reflects the achievements and financial stewardship of BEST Initiatives but also encapsulates our journey through a year of growth, challenges, and profound impact.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to our success and reaffirm our commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives we touch.

For a detailed exploration of our projects, financial accounts, and our vision for the future, we invite you to delve further into this report.

Fatheritage Project By National Lottery Heritage Fund

Introduction

BEST Initiatives proudly presents the annual report for the "Fatheritage" project, a unique and enlightening endeavour aimed at understanding and preserving the cultural heritage of African men who have migrated to Newcastle. This project focuses on capturing the seminal experiences of these men as they navigate fatherhood for the first time in a foreign land, and how their transition from boyhood to manhood intertwines with the cultural shifts experienced due to globalisation.

Aims of the Project

The "Fatheritage" project was meticulously designed to document the first-time experiences of African men as fathers. It delves into their memories and experiences of rites of passage from boys to men, particularly highlighting the changes these rites have undergone since relocating to Newcastle. A significant aim of this project was to address the lacuna in oral history projects that capture these unique experiences, thereby preserving a rich cultural narrative at risk of being overshadowed by global cultural shifts.

Key Lessons Learned

Conclusion

The "Fatheritage" project has been an enlightening journey, not just for the participants but also for our organisation and the broader community. It has vividly highlighted the essential qualities of adaptability, resilience, cultural identity

preservation, and the importance of community support in the face of migration. The narratives collected offer profound insights into the human capacity to overcome challenges and thrive in a multicultural, diverse environment. This project stands as a testament to the rich, dynamic experiences of African men in Newcastle, offering a valuable cultural legacy for future generations.

Platinum Queens Jubilee Celebration By National Lottery Community Fund

Introduction

BEST Initiatives is honoured to present the annual report for the "Platinum Queens Jubilee Celebration" project, a prestigious undertaking funded by The National Lottery Community Fund. This project was one of 70 across the UK chosen to commemorate 70 years of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign. This milestone was more than a national celebration; it represented an opportunity to foster lasting community legacy, enhance intergenerational connections, and deepen our bond with nature.

Project Overview

Our project's design went beyond mere celebration. It aimed to create enduring benefits for our community spaces and places, introducing new opportunities and activities. A crucial aspect was to facilitate intergenerational social contact, significantly reducing social isolation among older individuals and enhancing overall community cohesion.

Key Achievements and Impact

Conclusion

The "Platinum Queens Jubilee Celebration" project has been a transformative experience for BEST Initiatives and the communities we serve. The project's legacy extends far beyond the celebration of a historic national event. It has been instrumental in reducing social isolation, particularly among older community members, and in building stronger intergenerational bonds. The sense of community cohesion, well-being, and connectedness fostered by this project has had a profound and lasting impact. It stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in creating meaningful, enduring change, and enriching lives across generations.

People’s Health Trust Project

Introduction

BEST Initiatives is proud to present the annual report for the "People’s Health Trust Project," an intergenerational initiative born from the experiences of service users during the lockdown period. This project was particularly focused on addressing the loneliness and social isolation reported by older women, while simultaneously embracing the enthusiasm of younger women for skills exchange in areas such as food reuse, cooking, and arts.

Project Design and Objective

The project was specifically designed to cater to a diverse group, including asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, and other vulnerable demographics such as women on spouse visas, undocumented women, students, unaccompanied, and trafficked young people. A notable characteristic of our service users is that 80% do not speak English as their first language, with Mandingo, Fulah, Portuguese, and Lingala being the predominant languages spoken. The project aimed to create a platform for these individuals to overcome language barriers, engage in social activities, and reduce their isolation, thereby improving their mental and physical health.

Key Achievements and Impact

Conclusion

The "People’s Health Trust Project" has been a beacon of hope and support for those who experienced heightened isolation and vulnerability during the lockdown. Its

success lies in not only bringing different generations together but also in creating a nurturing environment where cultural diversity is celebrated, and language barriers are overcome. The project has had a profound impact on reducing social isolation, improving mental and physical health, and fostering a strong sense of community among its participants. It stands as a powerful example of how targeted, culturally sensitive initiatives can create meaningful change and enrich lives in our diverse society.

Sports England Physical and Mental Fitness Project

Introduction

BEST Initiatives is thrilled to present the annual report for our "Sports England Physical and Mental Fitness Project." This project, designed in alignment with the celebration of the king's coronation, aims to foster goal-setting and achievement through fitness challenges among young people from disadvantaged families. Recognising the transformative power of physical fitness, this project sought to imbue participants with a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and confidence.

Project Objectives

Our primary focus was to reach young individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who often lack access to resources for physical activity and health promotion. By providing structured and supportive environments for fitness challenges, the project aimed to empower these young people to take control of their health and wellbeing. The objectives included building resilience, fostering a sense of agency, and encouraging personal development.

Key Achievements and Impact

Conclusion

The "Sports England Physical and Mental Fitness Project" by BEST Initiatives has proven to be a vital intervention in the lives of young people from disadvantaged families. By focusing on physical fitness and mental resilience, the project has not only improved individual lives but also fostered a healthier, more inclusive community. The legacy of this project is one of empowerment, health, and wellbeing, setting a foundation for these young individuals to lead fulfilling and productive lives. The project stands as a testament to the transformative power of physical activity and goal setting, especially in the lives of those who may otherwise lack such opportunities.

Rothley Trust Capital Project

Introduction

BEST Initiatives is pleased to present the annual report for the Rothley Trust Project. Thanks to the generous grant from the Rothley Trust, we were able to procure computers and computer accessories, significantly enhancing our services to both adult and young beneficiaries. In a time where digital access is crucial, this project was pivotal in ensuring that our beneficiaries, especially those engaged in preemployment and after-school homework activities, had the necessary technological support.

Project Objectives

The core objective of the Rothley Trust Project was to bridge the digital divide for our beneficiaries. The focus was twofold: firstly, to aid adults in pre-employment

activities, enhancing their job readiness and digital literacy; secondly, to support young people with their academic pursuits through after-school homework activities. The provision of computers and accessories was targeted to facilitate these objectives in an increasingly digital world.

Key Achievements and Impact

Conclusion

The Rothley Trust Project has been a significant milestone for BEST Initiatives, effectively addressing the urgent need for digital access and literacy among our beneficiaries. The project's impact extends beyond immediate digital inclusion, fostering long-term benefits in terms of employability, education, and personal development. It stands as a pivotal initiative in empowering our community members to thrive in a digital world, significantly enhancing their opportunities for growth and success.

Greatham Hospital of God Project

Introduction

BEST Initiatives is proud to present the annual report for the Greatham Hospital of God Project. This project, generously funded through a grant, was specifically aimed at covering administrative costs vital to the efficient operation and expansion of our services. The grant played a crucial role in enabling us to streamline our administrative processes and enhance the effectiveness of our initiatives for both adult and young beneficiaries.

Project Objectives

The primary objective of the Greatham Hospital of God Project was to optimise our administrative capabilities. This enhancement was crucial in supporting our broader mission of assisting vulnerable groups, including asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, and other disadvantaged individuals. By securing funding for administrative expenses, we aimed to improve our operational efficiency, allowing for more resources to be directed towards direct service provision.

Key Achievements and Impact

Conclusion

The Greatham Hospital of God Project has been instrumental in enhancing the operational backbone of BEST Initiatives. By providing the necessary funding for administrative costs, the project has not only improved our efficiency and capacity for service delivery but also strengthened our foundation for future growth and sustainability. This grant has allowed us to concentrate our efforts and resources on what we do best: serving and supporting our diverse and deserving beneficiaries.

Overview of Other Activities

Introduction

In addition to the specific projects detailed in earlier sections, BEST Initiatives has continued to drive its traditional projects and activities throughout the period. These initiatives are at the core of our mission and have significantly contributed to the well-being and development of our beneficiaries. The activities span various essential areas, each tailored to address the unique needs of our community members.

Key Areas of Focus and Impact

Employability Support :

Childcare Support :

Children and Young People :

Conclusion

Throughout the year, BEST Initiatives has remained steadfast in its commitment to serve and support our community through a range of impactful activities and projects. Our traditional initiatives, such as employability support, childcare assistance, and youth engagement programs, have continued to make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. These initiatives not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term well-being and development of individuals and families in our community. By focusing on these core areas, BEST Initiatives has reinforced its dedication to fostering a supportive, empowering, and thriving community. The success of these activities underscores our ongoing commitment to creating opportunities, enhancing skills, and providing essential support, all of which are crucial in building a resilient and prosperous community.

Executive Summary

This report comprehensively evaluates the primary risks faced by our charity, as identified by the Board of Trustees. It aims to outline these risks systematically and proposes strategies to mitigate them effectively, ensuring the long-term stability and success of the organisation.

Identified Risks and Mitigation Strategies

Uncertainties in Funding :

High Staff Turnover :

Failure in Identifying Self-Generating Income Opportunities :

Inability to Achieve Strategic Outcomes and Performance Expectations :

Community Engagement and Stakeholder Management :

Research and Evaluation of Income-Generating Options :

Conclusion

The Trustees and management of the charity are deeply committed to addressing these risks through strategic planning, organisational development, and continuous improvement. By focusing on performance excellence, stakeholder engagement, financial diversification, and sustainable growth, we are confident in our ability to navigate these challenges and ensure the long-term success and impact of our organisation.

Year-End Review: Challenges in the Fatheritage Oral History Project

Executive Overview

In reflecting upon the conclusion of the Fatheritage Oral History Project, it is essential to acknowledge and address the significant challenges encountered during the interview phase. These challenges have notably impacted the progression and outcomes of the project.

Detailed Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

Challenge: Respondent Availability and Scheduling Conflicts

Challenge: Privacy and Confidentiality Concerns

Challenge: Cultural Sensitivities

Project Extension and Continued Support

Despite these mitigation efforts, the project's progress was slower than anticipated. Consequently, we sought and were granted a project extension of three to six months past the original deadline of 30/09/23. This extension was crucial in allowing us the necessary flexibility to strategize and ensure the project's successful completion.

We extend our profound gratitude to the Heritage Lottery Fund for their unwavering support and understanding during these challenging times. Their continued backing

has been a cornerstone in navigating these hurdles and driving the project towards its successful fruition.

Conclusion

The Fatheritage Oral History Project, though faced with significant challenges, has made considerable strides thanks to adaptive strategies and the support of our sponsors. The project's success is a testament to our commitment to overcoming obstacles and achieving our goals, even in the face of adversity.