COMPANY NUMBER: 08286856 REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1150354 WOMEN&GJRLS NETWORK Women and Girls Network REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The tru present their ila an.d fanCIal statemejlts for Women and Girls Nth+oL QWGN) for the year ended 3 1 March 2024 which arel- ed" to 'nieet the requirements for a directors, repo for CoMpae Act purposes. The trustees have provision of the Statement of Recommended Pra P) "Accounting and4 Reporting by Charities" (FRS 102) eparing the annual rei)ort - and financial statements of the charfty. The financial statements havo been prepared in ac¢ordanc with the accounting policies set out in notes to the accowtts,gn.d comply with the Memorandum and Articles ot" Assoclatiorf,:the.. Charities Act 2011. the Companies Act 2006 and Accolnting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recoinmended Practice applicable to charities preparing their ac,counts In accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard:applicable irf: the UK and Repiiblic of Ireland piiblished in October 2019. CONTENTS 1-27 Trustees, Annual Report (including Directors, Report) 28-31 Independent Auditor's Report 32 Statement of FinancRal Activities (including Income and Expenditure Account) 33 Balance Sheet 34 1 35-45 Statement of Cash Flows Notes to the fi inancial Statements v,(Jii,.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT {fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Objectives and Activities Our mission is to significantly irnprove the quality of life for our clients, fostering empowennent, healing, and transforniation to help survivors thrive. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to individual needs, crttdting care pathways that facilitate genuine choices and sustainable recovery. Women and Girls Network's core objectives and activities encompass: Therapeutic Services Providing specialised, holistic therdpy to support the healing and recovery of women and girls who have endured various fornis of gendered violence, including sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Advoeaey Serviees Providing a comprehensive advocacy support to women and girls, encompassing a wide spectrum of needs such as assistance with legal proceedings, housing. immigration rnatters, and financial concerns. We have speciali5ed services for young women as part of our service offer. Training Initiatives Offering training programs to enhance understanding. raise awareness. and promote best practices among individuals and organisations working with survivo of gendered violence. 4. Research and Information Dissemination Conducting research and sharing relevant inforn)ation to empower women who have experienced violence and those supporting them, enabltng infonned decision-making. Therapeutic Services Our primary focus remains addressing the needs of women and girls recovering from gendered violence, including the delivery of culturally sensitive counselling services. Each counselling request begins with an assessment to determine its appropriateness for the individual and to identify the most effective therapeutic approach. We offer professional counselling services for women who have experienced various forms of violence, delivered within a culturally sensitive framework that provides tailored therapeutic interventions. Our approach involves an initial assessment to deterniine the suitability of counselling and identify the most effective counselling method for each individual. Ascent Project This project offers counselling to women and girls aged 14+ who have endured any forni of gendered violence either recent or historic. Our services within the Ascent Project include: Ascent Counselling.. Offering one-on-one counselling to women and girls who have experienced domestic and sexual violence. Ascent Ending Harmful Practices: Specialised long-terni counselling for women who have ¢n¢ountered hannful practices, such as female genital mutilation, so-called honour-based violence, and forced marriage, whether recent or historic.
WOMEN AND GIIiLS NETWOIiK TRUSTEES'AKNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 West London Rape Crisis Service {WLRCC) We operate a specialised counselling service for women who have faced re¢ent or historic sexual violence, including childhood sexual abuse, rape. prostitution, sexual assault, harassmenL and exploitation. Our central location in Ealin& along with satellite venues in Brent, Harrow, Hammersmith and Fulharn, Hillingdon. and Hounslow, ensures accessibility. Our services within WLRCC include: MOPAC Counselling: Offering one-to-one counselling to women and girls who have endured any forni of sexual violence either recent or historic. NHS RCC Counselling: Funded by the NHS, this service supports wornen and girls aged 14+ who have endured sexual violence av]d are cUTntlY in or have gone through the criminal justice system. Body therapy and Coaching: Offering one-to-one Arornatherapy Massage or online Wellbeing and Coaching sessions to survivors. Ending Harmful Practices (MOPAC P&CT): Specialised lOng-te counselling for women who have encountered harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, so-called honour-based violence, and forced mTIage, whether recent or historic. 5. London Borough of Hounslow (LBH Funded): Offers counselling and grounding session contracts to women aged 18+ specifically from the Hounslow area and referred directly into service by ihe Sexual Violence Outreach Practitioner for that borough as an effort to ensure clients who were being supported in Hounslow got the support they needed. DAISV Counselling: Offers counselling and grounding sessions, including specifically for Black and Global Majority women and gir15 living within West London. This service offers counselling online and in-person and is for women aged 14+ who have endured all forn]s of gender-based violence. Advocacy Services The Independent Sexual Violence Advocacy Service (ISVA) Based at the West London Rape Crisis Centre. OUT ISVA service provides practical and emotional support to survivors of recent and historic sexual violence within the West London Boroughs. This support encompasses assistance through the criminal justice process and addresses immediate needs to ensure safety and sustainable recovery. We offer specialist ISVAS for survivors Wlth multiple disadvantages as well as an ISVA for black and global majority women specifically- this is to address the inequalities in reporting and institutional racism these Survivo endure when it comes to the crirninal justice systetii. This year we also introduced two Brief Intervention ISVA roles for short-tenn casework, whi15t they wait for more longer-temi support, in order for them to meet specific CJS milestones without undue delay. The Dedicated London Sexual Violence Helpline Part of the Ascent partnership with Women's Ai([ Refuge, and RASASC, thL5 helpline offers int¢grated services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence throughout London, providing immediate practical and emotional support and directing individuals to other support services. The WGN Sexual Violence Helpline caters to women and girls who have experienced gendered violence.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Young Women's Service Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive support for young people aged l O to 25 Ihrough two specialist teams.. the Advocacy Team and ihe Prevention Team. Our projects are funded through include MOPAC RCC, EMPOWER - Safer London, London Council% and CouRAGEus MOPAC. Services within the Young Women's Service include: CouRAGEus: A unique pan-London project for Black and Global Majority young women and girls. created in partnership with 10 leading VAWG specialist organisations. It offers specialised advocacy, counsellin& resilience, and prevention programs for those experiencing gendered violence. mental health issues, and multiple disadvantages. We focus on suppx)rting Black and Global Majority young wotnen experiencing intetsectional disadvantage. recognising the con]wunding effects of strnctural Jacism and inequalities at these intersections. 2. Community Engagement Worker: Our CEW has regular workshops at Saint Gabriel Secondary School, Latin American Youth Forum, and Community Evenings at Stoke Newington Secondary School. She collaborate5 With other CEWS within the partnerships to deliver workshops and trdining to professional5. 3. Young Women's Advocacy Service: Providing one-on-one advocacy support and casework in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of young women who have experienced gendered violence. We also raise awareness of gendered violence issues through themed workshops and Casewo for early intervention. 4. Young Women's Prevention Service: The London Council's WThole Schools projecl delivers interactive, arts- based education programs to children and young people aged 9 to 18, promoting healthy relationships and addressing violence myths. We also provide training for professionals working with young people, along with community The Advice Service One of the largest projects in the Ascent partnership, providing specialist and generic advice services for women and girls affected by gender-based violence through individual advice and group work. Services are available through two London Hubs in Ealing and Islington, along with spokes across London boroughs to increase accessibility while mitigating barriers associated with crossing borough boundarie5. Training Initiatives We develop and deliver accredited training Programs as part of the Ascent secOnd-ti support project. Our goal is to enhance the sustainability of organisations providing services to those affected by sexual and domestic violence across London. This includes accredited training, expert-led sessions. seminars. BMER network events. borough surgeries. and personalised support. Our training team offers the following: Accredited Ttaining 2. One Day Courses Expert-Led Seminar5 4. Bespoke Tt7ining 5. National and International Training
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Community F.ngagement Work We have a Community Engagement Worker who provides the following to professionals and survivors: Training for Professionals and community stakeholders on VAWG issues, specialising in the needs and experiences of Black and minoritised young women. Experts by Experience Programme.. opportunities to amplify the voices of young people and support thern to become change makers. Research and Information Dissemination WGN is committed to conducting research and sharing valuable inforniation to ernpower women who have experienced violence, as well as those who support them. We aim to provide the necessary resource5 for Tnfonned, confident decision-rnaking. Over the past year, we have contributed to key reviews and consultations initiated by our funders, such as London Councils, and have worked closely with partner organisations like Imkaan. These collaborations have enabled us to support vital research projects that enhance services for women affected by violence. In addition, our newly appointed Data Impacts and Insights Manager has been reviewing our equalities dat4 risk and safeguarding protocols, and conducting research on issues such as suicidality and self-hatTh. Looking ahead, she will lead biannual data scrutiny panels in 2024-2025 and plans to explore services that focus on our Global Majority clients, ensuring our support remains inclusive and effective. Fund-raising standards information Women and Girls Network does not proactively raise funds from the public. We do have a number of onlTne accounts through which people are able to donale, and donations are made when people shop online using our account, for example with Easyfundraising. We receive direct donations through PayPal which are presumed to be predominately from ex-service users and their friends and family. Achievements and Performance Counselling and Body Therapies WGN'S core counselling service is dedicated to supportincr women in their recovery from gender-based violence. Clients are provided with flexible contracts, ranging from 15 sessions to one year. The determination of individual contracts and therapy goals is a Collaborative process with the client during the assessment phase. WGN'S clinical model is grounded in a strengths-based and evidence-based approach, with a focus on personal empowemient and hleVIng cornprehensive and sustainable recovery. Therapeutic interventions prioritise the direct management of trauma consequences. tailoring them to the unique needs of each client. These interventions are characterised by their complexity, multimodality, holism, and alignment with the individual's trauma pathway. Outeomes Clinical services at WGN use various monitoring and evaluation systems to assess therdpeutic progress and clinical effectiveness. WGN relies on two main evaluation systems: Clinical Out¢ome5 in Routine Evaluation (CORE) and The Data Processing Management System (DPMS). These evaluation tools are complemented by client feedback mechanisms to ensure client-centered service delivery.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 CORE is a recognised therapeutic outcomes database employed by NHS psychological services. It gathers and analyses qualitative and quantitative data through a four-domain questionnaire administered before and after therapy. This questionnaire assesses clients, functioning leve15, problem areas, risk factors, and wellbeing. CORE clinical reports provide in-depth analysis of individual client progress and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. DPMS, developed by Rape Crisis England and Wales, incorporates clinical standards from Women's Aid and BACP. It focuses on identifying trduma markers associated with gender-based violence. The database collects and analyses both qualitative and quantitative inforniation, allowing tracking of individual client progress in tenns of services accessed, such as counselling. helpline support, groups, body therapies and advocacy. It also helps identify clinical outcomes. Additionally. feedback surveys and evaluation fornis are used to gauge client satisfaction with the services. GDPR-approved platforms like Survey Monkey and Text Magic are utilised to collect this data. Ascent Counselling Service WomeT] and Girls Network delivers innovative and effective counselling services for women and girls who have experienced all fornis of gendered violence in London. We provide women-only holistic and seamless therapeutic services. WGN has a specialised clinical model referred to as the Holistic Emwwennent Recovery Model developed to work with survivors of gendered violence. Therapeutic engagement consists of multifocal holistic interventions to address the global irnpact of trauma in a phased approach from a strengths- based perspective. Therapy is attuned to diversity and aims to be significant, relevant and sensitive to meet clients, cultural expectations. Therapeutic work aims to support clients, movernent and transition from survivor to thriver, promoting total and susrainable recovery. The Ascent Counselling Service provides counselling to women and girls aged 14 years upwards. We provide both in person and remote counselling options and have offices and satellites across London. This service is provided to women and girls living in the following clusters: West Quadrant: H&F, Brent, Ealing, HarTOW and Hounslow. North Quadrant: K&C and Wesbninster. South Quadrant: Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark. Here are the outcotnes for the year through COREnet's Benefits of Therapy forJn (taken from the 'End of Therapy, fortn which is an evaluation of the client's progress after receivin(T a full counselling contract)= 720/D of clients benefitted from aT] increase in personal insiRht and understandin% 87 % ol clients benefitted from being able to explore their feeling51probleTns 870/0 of clients benefitted from being able to express their leelingslproblems 78 % of clients developed better coping mechanisms and strategies 49 % were supported in accessing ongoing practical help 64 % reported having better control, planning and decision tnaking 770/0 reported an improvernent in their overall general wellbeing 700/0 reported an improvernent to their mental health symptoms 720/0 reported improved day to day funttioning 780/0 reported improved personal relationships. The Ascent counselling service delivered 921 counselling sessions in ?023-24 and welcomed 92 new survivors to our waiting list in the period.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED JI MARCH 20?4 Feedback for A3cont Counselllng sorvlce 2023-24: -1 felt that this therapy space allowed for an opportunity to look 8t experiences and my responses and habitual behaviour in a helpful way." -It was very good, and my th&rapist was amazingj" "Looking forward to th8 future." "I have felt supported throughout, l am in a much better place now,. counselling and WGIV has been very supportive throughout myjourney. Thank you so much WGNI" -Thank you. this space has been invaluable to mel Counselling has facilitated my awareness and personal growth." Domestic Abuse /Seiual Violence Service This service is for black and minoritised women and girls aged 14+ who have endured all types of VAWG (including domestic abuse and sexual violence). We have four Specialist Counsellors providing l-? days per week each of five counsellin(y slots. This includes a Black Women's Counsellor (SV), Black Women's Counsellor (VA WG), Coun5gllor (Online revnote session provision) and Counsellor (SV). This service also includes a Black & Global Majority WoTnen Caseworker which is held within the Advice Casework team. By the end of 20?3-?4, this service was fully operalional. We were able to support 60 women in 20?3-?4. 49 of which were new referrals in the period across casework and counselling teams. l OOO/o of clients who concluded 5UPPOrt ( I l } duriT)tr the period reported better coping mechanisms, improved general wellbein improved feelings of safely and felt more infonned and empowered to act. The integration of both caseworkers and counselling teams has provided cOMphen$1ve support for survivors, catering to their advocacy and therapeutic needs effectively. Our clinical team has observed an increase in clients requiring advocacy support, particularly retTardinu hou5inu imrnitrration. le(ral proceedings, and financial challenges exacerbated by the cost of living crisis. Balancin therapy arn idst numerous external stressors has been challenging, often necessitating prioritisation of practical support over ¢ounselling. However, with access to dedicated caseworkers. Ihis process has become more streamlined, allowino counsellors to focus on delivering therapeutic assistance. This inteorated approach ensures client5 receive specialised wraparound supporL enhancing their overall experience and outcomes. Feedback for DAISV Service 2023-24: "The service is actually one with skilled educated staff. who make effective change. The staff are knowledgeable in facts. So one moves on from the service empowered and believing in one s rights as 8 women or girl." -Hopefully the local authorities will fund this service to grow more and meet more service users. They should also be sending their staff for training at WAGN on the complex cases and how to support women and girls who are victims of sexual and physical violence.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 20?4 Ending Harmful Practices (Counselling sern'ices) We continue to offer two EHP services within WGN, each funded separately.. one throuJo MOPAC P&CT and the other through Ascent funded by London Councils. These services provide specialised, long-tern) counselling to women who have experienced harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, so- called 'honour-based' violence, and forced marriage. Our counselling contracts last for 20 weeks (but can be extended) and are available to women aged 18 and older. Longer therapy durations allow us to address complex issues 5temrning from harmful practices comprehensively, aiding in recovery. We serve women and girls connected to or residing in Ealing, Hounslow, and Bromley boroughs. Additionally, we collaborate with voluntary, statutory, and community sectors to raise awareness about the impact of harniful practices throuJo ) presentations and trainin which is detailed in the training section below. We maintain a strono partnership with interpreting service, ensuring access to female interpreters for clients with lanouage needs. Additionally, we recruit staff proficient in multiple languages, including Albanian, Urdu, and Punjabi. for this project. By recruiting counsellors from Crlobal majority backgrounds for this project, we enhance support for clients who may prefer working with someone familiar with their culture and experiences, thereby promoting greater comfort and understanding. We have noticed an increasing number of clients seekincv support in housing and immigrarion matters. While our primary focus remains on providing counselling, we are also assisting by writing support letters, offering GP referrals, and connecting clients with advocacy services such as our WGN Advice Casework team. This collaborative approach ensures that clients receive well-rounded care and the support they need. Housing challenges continue to affect many of our clients within this service. Some are IiviT]g in unsuitable accommodation, like hotels or B&Bs. which often lack basic amenities such as kitchen facilities. Those with 'no recourse to public nds, (NRPF) have been especially hard-hit by the rising cost of living, making the need for immigration and financial support even more uroent. Over 300/0 of clients accessing this service have immioration issues. Our clin ical team is available to assist with these issues, with onward referrals to advocacy teams, but we also place sessions on hold if clients are unable to fully commit to sessions or are unable to do deeper traurna work due to external stressors needing to be resolved first. They are welcome to resume therapy at any time. For clients who are unable to attend in-person sessions due to financial constraints, we continue to offer travel reirnbursements to help ease their burden. These services welcomed 38 new referrals in 20?3-24. 30 clients received counselling contracts in the period. Our counsellors delivered 25 asses5rnent hours durino the period and JO l individual counselling and grounding sessions. Our Senior Clinical Team also provided additional hours providing supporting letters. welfare check in calls, GP letters and supporting clients with onward referral to advocacy services such as IKWRO and Advice casework, as well as statutory mental health teams. Client feedback for EHP counsolllng sorvlces 2023-24: "l appreciate my Counsellor a lot, for h8r time and her great pmf8ssional support." "I got lots of support from yourgroup. They taught me to live a better life and k89p b8 Posltive in life. So thanks for this positive support." "The support I received was amazing. [My counsellorjwas the nicest most understanding person. I had a lot of intertwined issues, and she was so patient. and l am now able to cope a lot better. The Centre the sessions ware held in was very welcoming and I fett calm walking in. I have come away from the whole experience with a better sense of personal s8curity and s8lf-assuranc8."
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 West London Rape Crisis Service The West London Rape Crisis Service (WLRCC), a specialised branch of Women and Girls Network, offers free counselling and advocacy services to women who have experienced various fornis of sexual violence, including child sexual abuse, rape, prostiNtion, sexual assaulL harassment, gang-related violence, bullying, and exploitation. The primary objective is to enhance, safeguard, and restore the mental wellbeing of women and girls who have encountered or are susceptible to sexual violence, all while striving for a society free from gender-based violence. Our central service is the Counselling Service, which provides flexible contracts (ranging frorn 20 sessions to one year) to WOTnen who have faced sexual violence. Therdpeutic interventions are tailored to address trauma- related issues. adopting an individualised. multifacete(L and holistic approach. WLRCC'S qualified therapists deliver this therapeutic service across six boroughs. offering session5 frorn one to two days a week. We also provide wellbeing check-in calls to clients in nee(L facilitated by our Sen ior Clinical Team. which also extends support through letters and ongoing assistance after the WGN counselling contract. In total, 2.342 counselling sessTons were delivered over the year conslsting of initial assessment session5, 1-1 counselling se55ions, Senior Clinical Team sessions and risk management sessions. Benefits of Therapy OutCOTnes 2023-24: Clients accessing our RCC counselling service this year achieved the following outcomes as shown through positive CORE scores and End of Therapy fornis. These scores are taken from the full years data set for our annual review of the service.. 7?O/o of clients reported improved personal insight and understanding 830/0 of clients were better able to explore their feelingslproblems 79010 of clients were better able to express their feeltngslproblems 82 % of clients developed better coping strategiesltechniques 39010 of clients were provided with access to ptical help 61Y/o of clients reported improved decision making and planning 830/0 of clients reported irnproved general wellbeing 640/0 of clients reported an irnprovement in their trauma symptoms 75 % of clients reported improved day to day functioning 7/0 of clients reported improved personal relationships. In 2023-24, 43 clients answered our feedback survey and provided the following positive outcomes: Clients who reported improved health and wellbeing - 840/0 Clients who reported feeling informed aT]d empowered to act= 86 % Client who reported improved feelings of safety = 82 % Clients who reported developing Tllore p051tive copinu mechanisms and techniques = By the end olQuarter 4 we had 45 clients on our risk register for mediurn to hiJ risk clients with approxirnately 15 /0 being on the register due to risk of harni from others and the other 85 % bein(r due to risk of harn) to self (E.g. suicidal ideation, suicide attempts andlor self-harni). Interventions inclllded sending GP letters for interim support or requesting a review of a cli¢nt's medication or care plan, onward referral to advocacy services (including our in-house Advice Casework servTce), welfare check-in calls and the extension of counselling contracts when necessary. In 2023-24, we closed a total of 43 risk flags, all of which were attributed to 'risk of harni to self including risk associated with substance use, suicidal ideation, self-hami and suicide attempts (either recent or historic). 33 of these risk flags were closed due to plam)ed closure and risk de*scalation, indicating that we no longer considered the client at risk.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED JI MARCH ?0?4 This accounted for 770/0 of clients with closed risk flaos. l 00/0 had their risk fla(ys de-escalated to lower-level risk flags and 14 % disengaged or declined service. In such cases, we ensured they were provided with resources like helpline numbers, and that their GPS were informed in high-risk instances. The West London Rape Crisis Centre successfully completed the National Service Standards assessment for Rape Crisis England & Wales rneeting all crileria for Full Membership of Rape Crisis England & Wales which is valid for three years. We have also been highlighted as a centre for good practice by Rape Crisis Enoland and Wales. Client feedback for WLRCC in 2023-24: °It has genuinely changed my life. I feel so much more equipped to d8al with things and understand myself so much better." "The privacy of the IoGation. The women only environment. The priv8te and comfortable mom. The excellent communication regarding appointments." "I can see a good future ahead no matter what. I believe in myself again and am beginning to trust now that I have deaft with my past. I was made to feel bad and mad and thanks to this support I know I'm not and have never been. l am me and I'm back on my feet. Thank you" "From the mom8nt I contacted WGN services I was informed of what accessing support looked like. and timeframes which were particularly important as the Homecare Team w8r8 trying to discharge me withoutproactivaly helping me put support in place. I was communicated with via telephone. text and email even whilst I was waiting for sessions to start I had check-in calls which I greatly appreciated.- "My experienc8 with Women & Girls Network was crucial to me getting my life back on track. I cannot express how grateful l am to have been supported in this way. My therapist was 8 perfect match for my needs. and she had left me the tools I need to continue forward." Body TherapTr and Coaching As part of the WGN model of integrated holistic services, clients are offered body therapy as a means to physical healing, to create healthier and more posilive connections to the b(Kly, and to promote wellbeing and self-care. This year. we welcomed a new body therapist to join our team offering a second day of Aromatherapy Massage at our Shepherds Bush service so that clients have more choice and flexibility when it comes to accessing this very popular service Our Body Therapy service consist5 of two different types of sessions clients can access.. Aromatherapy Massage (Monday evenings and Wednesday mornings. Shepherds Bush) As part of a holistic approach to recovery, massage has long been used to restore healih of body and mind. Massage can have profound efyects and is particularly useful in the treatment of trauma. This is an hour- long session at our Shepherd's Bush premises. This non-invasive therapy helps improve areas such as sleep, digestion, body aches and pains and tseneral wellbeing. Clients are in control of their treatment, which is devised in consultation with them. A treatment can be stopped or amended at any time.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Wellbeing Coaching (Tuesday evenings, Online) These are 50-minute Sessions which focus on issues related to the body such as exercise, nutrition, stress- management, sleep hygiene, grounding, self-care, body image, food relationships and menopausal issues. A wellbeing coach guides the client to bring about a clearer understanding of any concerns in relation to overall wellbeing and inspire the necessary changes to achieve goals. We delivered 24? hours of body therapy in 2023-24. Client feedback for Body Therapy servlco 2023-24: "I gained a lot of weight for a year after the incid8nt and stopped working out. I have now lost half of the gained weight and consistently go gym. l am a lot less scared and anxious which has made gng outsid8 not only easier but enjoyable. I se8 my friends a lot more and l find it easier to communicate." "I was surprised with how useful I found the wellbeing coaching sessions. my coach was so lovely. tailored the support to my needs and made me feel really at eas8. It has been the most valuable support I have had and I greetly appreciate the CouRAGEus CouDselling CouRAGEus counselling is for Black and minoritised young women. This includes those from ethnic minority groups, LGBT+ and disabled young women. It is for survivors aged 14 yrs - 24 yrs who live, Work or study in any London Borough and have endured or are enduring violence, abuse and/or exploitation. Se55ions are flexible to suit the needs of young people and can range from 10 sessions to up to a year. We received 44 referrals in 2023-24 which SUassed our target and is an 80/0 increase on last year's numbers. We offered 14 assessment appointments and 156 individual counselling sessions in 2023-?4. We also welcomed a new specialist counsellor to the tearn to offer two diarles. 73010 of clients in 2023-24 accessing our counselling service reported an increased ranoe of self-care strategies and positive coping mechanisms. This client group necessitated additional support from our Senior Clinical Team who provided 14 sessions of welfare emotional support calls and GP assistance within the period. London Borough of Hounslow Counselling This service operated with a 5inale diary and one Specialist Coun5ellor based at our Hounslow satellite venue. The counsellor provided five sessions each Monday, Specifically for clieT)ts referd through the 'Sexual Violence Outreach and Prevention Practitioner. at the London Boroutyh of Hounslow. This initiative was designed to address the growing needs within the borough, ensuring that clients received timely support and experienced shorter waiting times for sessions. In total we provided 262 sessions for the year (approximately50/0 over taroet) and supported 44 individual clients. J? of which were new referrals to the service in 202i-24. Benefits of Therapy Outcomes 2023-24: Clients accessing the LBH Counselling service this year achieved the following outcornes as shown through positive CORE scores and End of Therapy form5. These scores are taken from the full year's data set (April 23- March 24). 10
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL IiEPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 20?4 75 % of clients reported improved personal insight and understanding 840/0 of clients reported beincr better able lo e.xplore feelingslproblems 840/0 of clients reported being beller able to express their feelingslproblerns 840/0 of clients developed better coping slrategiesltechniques 9 % of clients were provided access to prdctical help 42% of clients reported better control, planning and decision making 60 % of clients reported improved subjective wellbeing 84 % of clients reported an improvement in mental health symptoms 840/0 of clients reported an improvement in day-to-day functioning 84% of client5 reported an irnprovement in their personal relationships. This year. we closed I I risk flags for clients flagged as medium to high risk for risk of hami to self (90 % ) (E.g. suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide attempts either recent or historic) and risk of hann from oihers (l O /0) (E.g. risk associated with a perpetrator, advocacy need). One client was also on our risk register for risk associated with her physical health deteriorating due to a condition she is living with. Of these, 900/0 were closed due to planned closure and risk de-escalation. meaning we did not consider the client at risk when closing their case. l O /0 disenuaged but GP letters were sent to provide them with ongoing support and an advocacy referral for a client experiencing homelessness. We have six clients remaining on our risk register goino into 24-25 who we will continue to support with GP letlers. contract extensions, welfarelcheck-in calls and onward referral to advocacy services where necessary. Unfortunately. this service will not continue in 20?4-25. However, the positive impact it had on survivor5 was invaluable. Client feedback for LaH Counselling service 2023-24: "The seNice has helped me feel safer and more comfortable to be in society again.- -my therapist and how willing she was to listen to me and hold space for me to share things no one else wanted to listen to." Two dients informed us that they wish they could have attended a greater number of sessions as they benefitted greatly from the contracts they did attend. Honorar). Coun5ellors Between April ?3 and March 24 our Honorary Counsellors provided ?38 counselling sessions across counselling services and supported 50 individual clients over the year. They also achieved an 82 % attendance rate during the period. This year, we have encountered difficulties in retaining our Honorary Counsellors. leading to a more than 50 % decrease in Ihe nurnber of sessions offered and clients supported. Several factors contributed to this. with the cost of living crisis being a key issue. Many of our volunteers have understandably needed to priorTrtise paid work over volunteering their time and services. In response, towards the end of the year, our Admin team implemented a more strategic approach to diary management. This allowed us to better meet targets by optimising available session slots, particularly those that were either above target or where flexibility allowed for adjustments. This approach has helped reduce our reliance on Honorary Counsellors while continuing to meet the needs of our clients.
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'AKNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Independent Seiual I'iolence Advocac). Service The ISVA Service provides advocacy support to women aged 14 years and over in west London. The ISVA aims to: Improve the survivors, awareT]ess of their rights- Increase their confidence in the criminal justice process and involvement of any statutory agencies. and Increase their immediate and longer tern] safety. This year, the ISVA team has provided vital supwrt to survivors of sexual violence despite significant challenges within the crirninal justice system, including police staffing shortages. delays in investigations, incon51Stent comrnunication from the police and the CPS and record-high court backlogs. They have navigated inconsistent Section 28 applications and persistent trial delays while advocating for tirnely case PTogre55iOT] and clearer communicatlDn with authorities. Despite these obstacles, the team has celebrated successe5, including CPS charues in several cases. improved communication with the CPS VictiTn Liaison Unit, and securiv]g a rnajor conviction at Isleworth Crown Court. The team also expanded its capacity with new staff. positioning itself for continued progress in 2024. The ISVA service supported 107 individual women on both a short- and long-term basis with 37 having been referred this year. The extreTnely challenging environment which the ISV A servic¢ navigates, creates significant barriers to justice for survivors. However, the team's resilience, bolstered by recent successes in both court outcomes and improved CPS communication, offers hope for continued progress. As new team members come on board in early 2024. the ISVA service is poised to expand its capacity and further strengthen it5 SUPPOrt for survtvors, all while advocating for necessary changes within the criminal justice system to address these longstanding issue5. There have been several notable successes this year. Communication between ISVAS and the CPS has improved significantly, thanks to the establishment of the CPS Victim Liaison Unit (VLU). This unit has facilitated better dialogue between ISVAS and the CPS, opening communication channels that were previously closed off. This development has been crucial in eTJsuring that su1VorS are kept informed about their cases. and it has strengthened the relationship between the ISVA service and the CPS. Furthennore, there was a positive outcome in a case at Isleworth Crown Court in December 2023. A survivor, who had reported a rape in May 2018, finally saw her perpetrator brought to justice. After years of delays, the trial concluded with the perpetrator being fouT]d guilty. In January 2024, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with a minimum of14 years to be served. This case highlights the importance of persistence and advocacy. even in the face of a slow-moving systeTn. The team also saw improvements in how ISV A support is perceived in court. In the Isleworth case. witness care and the survivor's barrister both acknowledged the vital role ISVAS play, ensuring the ISVA was allowed to sit with the survivor during the trial, which provided much-needed emotional support. Here are Some outcomes taken from our client feedback survey in 20?3-24 (using feedback from 23 individual clients who answered our 5urvey)'. 70 % reported irnproved health and wellbeing as a result of using the service 790/0 reported improved self-care strategies and positive coping mechanisms 5J /0 reported improved feelings of safety 870/0 reported feeling infornied and ernpowered to act 66010 reported that engaging with the ISVA service affected their experience of the criminal justice system. This is in keeping with previous years, feedback. 12
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 20?4 Cllent feedback for ISVA service from 2023-24: "My ISVA adviser is super super helpful and makes me feel very comfortable. She has helped 8 great deal with the problgms I have had, unfortunately it is the police department that has immensely under performed in their job." -1 feel like my ISVA workgr has gone above and beyond while working with me. She seems to always be there when I need her, in emergencies especially. and she is always listening. I feel like she actually hears m8, validates m8 and keeps me grounded during very trying times while still remaining honest and professional. She has been able to help me through this process of getting justice. but also she brings clarity to other parts of my lrfe such as my mental health and my interpersonal relationships.- "ISVA service is really helpful. They understand my feelings and my situation, making me realise I'm not alone and giving me the strength to take action. Without their support. I might still be deeply depressed and unable to move on from the trauma." "My ISVA is very trauma informed and empathic to my needs. She s so inft>rmed on the processes and its so helpful. Equally I feel as though I m in control of this process which is so important, and I value it a Jot." "I believe in myself again, thank you and happy to be alive.- 'oung Il'omen's AdvocacTr Service The role of the Advocate is to support young women (I1-?5) who have been affected by/ or at risk of sexual violence andlor sexual exploitation including young women who are gang associatedlinvolved. The Advocate offers holistic wrap around l-?_I support, advice. workshopslsupport groups and schoolsl coTnmunity-based prevention work to young women. In addition, the Advocate delivers Professional Exchanoe Serninars to frontline staff in the West London Boroughs around an intersectional approach to responding to Youno Survivors. This year, we faced recruitment challenges in this project due to hiiFh turnover, driven by the cost of living crisi5 and funding instabil ity. In response. senior team members focused on strengthening referral pathways, building partnerships with key oroanisations such as Solace, Southall Black Sisters. and the CouRAGEus projecls. They also referred individuals internally to London Survivors Gateway and WGN'S Advice tram. The waitlist for MOPAC-funded services was temporarily c105ed after Q2, with recruitment efforts continuing into ?0?4-?5. The Young Women's Advocacy Service received a total of15 referrals in this reporting year. Of these referrals.. 68 Youno Women received on-going advocacy support ?6 received full counselling contracts though the Empower Project and CouRAGEus. CouRAGEous is a unique pan-LoDdon project for minoritised young women and girls. It is a partnership between I I leadiT)g VAWG specialist oraani5ations (WGN, Ashiana. IKWRO, Solace Women's Aid, Nia. Southall Black Sisters, Respond, Jewish Women's Aid, Galop, Advance and ITnkaan) to Provide specialist advocacy, counselling, and resilience and prevention programé for minoritised young women and girls experiencing gendered violence, mental health issues andlor multiple disadvantages. 13
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT {tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH ?0?4 At the core of the work of the pan-London Young Women and Girls, Intecrrated service is to support minoritised young women experiencing intersectional disadvantage. Therefore, the understandino of the multiple forms of overlapping structural inequalities which intensify at the point of intersection are critical in understanding, engaging and offering the appropriate inlervention for the youno women and girls accessing the service. Feedback for Community Engagement Worker 2023-24: -1 never think about the connection between ours8nses and my body when we are under strass. Always I fett nervous, and my hands were so wet. and my breathing changad all the timg. But now, with this activity, I leamed that my body was reacting to protect me. I love this comfort kit because now I know how to Ind how I can relax." The Dedicated London Sexual Violence Helpline Women and Girls Network's dedicated Sexual Violence Helpline provides a safe, confidential and non- judgmental space for anyone in London who self identifies as a woman and has experienced either recent or historic sexual violence. Women and (rirls who access the Helpline's Freephone number or web chat can share their experiences and explore the irnpact of their experiences on their lives and journey to healing and recovery. The Helpline is Staffed by highly trained Sexual Violence Practitioners and volunteers who provide trauma-infomied and holistic responses to survivors, supportinu them to understand, recognise and put strategies in place for dealing with the trauma they have experienced. The Helpline can COTnplement existing systems of support survivors already have in place. but often the Helpline is the sole source of support women will a¢¢es5, especially as it offers complete anonymity on the point of access for survivors if they wish for it. As part of the Ascent Partnership Helplines stran(L the Helpline works in partnership with Refuge, RASASC and RESPECT to ensure the delivery of helpline services for survivors of VAWG, and sexual violence in particular. The Helpline has designed. developed and delivered two new additional service provisions, operational from January ?0?3: 1) Emotional Support Web Chat and 2) Emotional Resiliency Packaues. The emotional SUPPDrt Web Chat provides up to I hour of emotional support per web chat and operates within the same parameters as the Freephone Helpline service. WGNS Sexual Violence Helpline continues to PTovide Etnotional Resiliency Packages following the succes5 of the pilot in 2022-23. This is interirn emotional support calls for survivors of sexual violence who are on waiting lists to access support (identified and referred in via the London Survivors Gateway). This provision entails helpline practitioners delivering up to six weekly phone based emotional support sessions to survivors who were identified by London Survivors Gateway. In this reporting period the Pan London Sexual Violence Helpline provided 904 individual survivors with emotional sUPPOrt. Of these, 761 (approximately 85%) reported reduced isolation, increased hope andlor increased understanding. 612 (approxirnately 680/0) survivors reported having an increased underslanding of the steps they need to take to increase their safety. Additionally, 3? borough professionals reported being better able to support their clients, needs as a direct outcome of their support from our Helpline. Women and Girls Neh*'ork Training Women and Girls Network's training department delivers training courses that are accredited through fhe Open College Network (OCN). WGN, s training is aimed at front line professionals working within the VA WG sector. 14
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The objectives of the training services are to validate learners, prior and current knowledge, as well as to provide opportun ities to further enhance and develop awareness, knowledge and skills of learners. In 2023-24 we delivered the following trainings: Sexual Violence Accredited Training-. 3? delegates from 31 "Organisations Understanding and Working with Harn11 Practices: 15 delegates from 13 Organisations Professional Resilience and Self-care Trdining Dying to Live - Understanding and Working with Suicidality Accredited Training: 18 Delegates from 14 Organisations Ending Harsnful Practice.. I I delegates from I l Organisations Advanced ISVA training - Accredited. A range of Expert led seminars. and internal trainings were also delivered, for example. focused on safeguarding. The Advice Service Women and Girls Network's Ascent Advice service provides Freephone Advice Line, webehat and medium- long frrni 1-2-1 Casework and advocacy support services for women and girls aged 14 or older in London. Freephone Advice Line Women and Girls Network's Ascent Advice Hub provides free and confidential women-led, trauma-infonned specialist inforniation, advice and advocacy support to survivors of VAWG aged 14 OT older and their supporters. WGN'S Freephone Advice Line covers 17 London boroughs and provides women and girls with infonnation about the options available to them. Specialist inforniation is provided on a wide range of issues including: Personal safety Housing and homelessness (including access to refijge accommodation) Finances and welfare benefits No Recourse to Public Funds Legal options and processes (including legal protection remedies) Child contact related Concerns Mental health and Emotional wellbeing. The Advice Line is also open for professionals to access advice, support and consultations on cases involving gender-based violence. We were able to support 1,732 calls to the Advice Line in 2023-24. they provided assistance to 1.325 individual clients over the course of those calls. Of these clients. 6/0 reported increased leelin(rs of safety as a result of th¢ Advice Line's support. 1-2-1 Casework Overvieiv The AdvTce service offers specialist face to face casework 5UPPOrt for self-identifying wornen and girls affected by VAWG. Casework support is offered in several south-west London boroughs including Bromley, Croydon, Ealing, Wandsworth, Lewisham, Lambeth, Kingston and Richmond. Support is offered in several satellite venues across those boroughs. Face lo face casework support is delivered from an intersectional framework within a wider social-justice agenda. 15
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH ?024 Casework support offers women and girls a safe space where they can be themselves, safely explore their options and have their voices heard. Caseworkers offer intensive advocacy and support around a wide range of practical and emotional support needs related to VA WG. Pan London Young Women Caseworker (YWC) The Pan London YWC supports young women and girls Loed 14 to 24 by creating a safe and respectful space where young WOTnen are sUPPOrted to speak theiT mind without judgements and assumptions being Made. The YWC supports yOUDlY women to think about what they need or want support with and then will work with them to make changes in their own lives, enhancing a positive view of self and encouraging the creation of new, positive connections. Our YWC has been instrumental in increasing our service visibility in the Sector and has been a fierce advocate in challenging VA WG myths and bad practice in Secondary schools and Universities in particular, The YWC has had huue outcomes in supporting very cornplex cases, including advocacy for proper statutory care for a 14 year old who was due to become an inpatient for her mental health, as well as providing holistic wiap around support to increase our clients. safety tool kit and empowerment to recogT)i5e harmful people in her life. Our YWC has supwrted a disabled, non-binary 19-year- old with multiple needs as they navigate accessing mental health support and explored VA WG awareness raising and empoweThent sessions. Black & Global Majority Caseworker (DAISV) Durino this delivery year the Casework Service has had new specialist role &s we now have our Black and Global Majority Women lead caseworker. The caseworker is holding a fvll caseload with varied complex cases. Our casewOer has supported two clients get a religious divorce and safely separate frotn the perpetrators. The caseworker has also supported our second oldest client (7?) out of a high-risk situation and with successful joint workincr with MAIUC Crot her to remain safely in her home as the perpetrator was removed. Our caseworker has received so much tsreat feedback in particular, "thank you so much for your hard work & dedication to me. I know I was hard to reach at the betsinnin You still didn't trive up on me. I really appreciate your deterniination because of this I can now live a normal life. A million thanks to you. Keep up the good work." Caseivork summary for 2023-24 The service has also seen an increase in the volume of women and girls lookint particularly around safe accomrnodation and mental health needs. The Advice Service continued to raise the profile of the service across the boroughs it covers, with the service taking part in a wide range of community events and borough-based targeted outr¢ach promotions across the 17 boroughs it covers. The service has continued to establish excellent referral pathways with a wide Tange of partner agencies, particularly tar(reting educational establishments and VAWG leads in the boroughs we support. We have also made some great connections which resulted in referral pathways and free traininD for our team from different organisations such as Specialist prevention worf(ers on child exploitation, a disability support organisation and legal protection training. In 20?)-24. the Advice Casework team supported 128 individua] clients, 112 of which were new refea]S in the period. to access crisis support. Feedback for Advico 1-2-1 Casowork seryice 2023-24: -1 really appreciated it really could make the difference in someone remaining sane or even committing suicide." -In times of crisis this is literally a lifeline for those going through critical and somewhat devastating times in their lives.- "My caseworker explained and supported me. to understand the sitU8tion I was in and advised me on my options. which gave me the Gonfidence to make changes." 16
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DRRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 The Londoll SurviTr'ors Gateway Women and Girls Network is leading a sexual violence triage pilot in partnership with four London Rape Crisis Centres, Galop, Survivors UK, and London Havens. The funders are the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and London Havens. The London Survivors Gateway offers support to victims and survivors of rdpe and sexual abuse aged 13+ in London, including a dedicated triage service (the 'Gateway') and lSVAcaSeWOrkerS in each voluntary partnership agency who work with survivors. The Gateway service provides survivors with: A 40-minute comprehensive risk and needs assessment with a Navigator Multi-agency liaison for safety concerns Referrals to other agencies made by Navigators. often creating smoother pathways and shorter waiting times Specialist resources like self-help guides and helpline inforniation Transfer for a forensic medical examination if needed. The service supported 2225 individual survivors. They were able to make 2409 referrals over the year to rape crisis centres, advocacy services, counselling services and health agencies. There were a further 347 clients who did not require an ongoing referral as their needs were met by the London Survivors Gateway. These ISV A and Caseworker roles across the partnership provide long-temi and short-tem support to survivor5 of sexual violence who require rnore intensive Casework and multi-agency support as a result of experiencing multiple disadvantages or chronic disempowernient. ISVAS across six partnership agencies worked with 583 individual survivors over the course of the year. The caseworkers worked with 323 individual survivors over the year. Outcomes for survivors accessing LSG Helpline- 960/0 reported an increased awareness of sexual violence services in London 960/0 of survivors reported feeling believed and understood by LSG staff. Outcomes for survivors accessing the ISVA service: 82 % reported increased feelings of safety 860/0 reported increased self-care strategies and positive coping mechanisms 900/0 reported that they are better inforn)ed and ernpowered to act 86 % reported a positive increase in their health and wellbeing 740/0 of clients pursuing criminal justice outcornes report that the ISVA helped improve their experience of this process. Outcomes for survivors accessing the Caseworker service: 75 /0 reported increased feelings of safety 76 /0 reported increased self-care strategies and positive coping mechanisms 80 % reported that they are b¢tter infonned and empowered to act 740/0-reported a positive incTease in their health and wellbeing 92 % of clients pursuing criminal justice outcomes report that the ISV A helped impTove their experience of thts process. In 2023-24, Gateway provided clients waiting for counselling andlor ISVA support some interim short-terni support. We also restructured our team configuration and recruited for some newly created roles. 17
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT {INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED J l MARCH 20?4 We launched our Gateway psyehoeducational 'understanding trauma, webinar for survivors, receiving positive feedback. These webinars help survivors to understand trauma responses they may be experiencing from a psychoeducational lens, and to equip them with ways to cope. Clients have also been able to access Gateway Wellbeing Coaehing sessions. These four times weekly online sessions offer a wam] and understanding space to explore concerns related to a survivor, s overall wellbeing. focusino on specific goals (e.g. around sleeping and eating) to improve their wellbeing. In collaboration with the WGN sexual violence helpline. we've further developed our offer of Emotional Support Sessions to survivors aivaiting specialist ISV A or counselling support, providing much needed etnotional space for clients who often otherwise have no one to speak to. This support offers six weeks of a contained, regular and reliable time to receive empathic eTllOtional support, relieving them from the burden of repeating their experiences to a new perSOT] each time a5 is required when accessiT]g a helpliT]e. The role of our Senior Rapid Response Navigator (SRRN), who holds more cornplex cases and offers short- terni interventions for clients falling between gaps around Casework or in statutory services, or who have high levels of need, has been a continued success, both for clients and for our team structure and institutional learning. For example, she has worked skillfully with chronically suicidal survivors who have had difficult relationships with statutory meT)tal health teams and were stru(YCrling to engage with thern due to an approach that was less trauma-infonned. The SRRN has successfvlly supported clients until they were able to access longer-ternl advocacy or casework support from partner organisations. We also appointed an Admin and Bookings Worker (ABW) within the Gateway fram. This role has provided more capacity and support with the Gateway Wellbeing Coaching sessions being offered to clients who are waiting to access counselling andl or ISVA support whilst waiting lists are closed. The ABW also supports with refe]Ting clients who have been waitincr for a referral into counselling andlor ISVA following a Gateway assessment, when a closed service's waiting lists re-opens. We implernented a new robust and safer system for the intake of Gateway referrals intake openlclosures, thus continuing to offer sustainable, high-quality, holistic support for survivors, while safeguarding both staff and clients. More sustainable caseload levels have allowed for more creative and trauma-infortned interventions such as the Co-creation of creativt, holistic, person-centred safety plans for survivors in various fornis of crisis. This has also enabled us to maintain regular weekly referral openings, good contact times (on average 1-3 days from referral to first contact with client or professional), and to hold the average wait for a Gateway assessment relatively steady at around 1-2 week5. There is a significant shortage of available services, and significant waitints lists across the sexual violence sector and beyond, due to increasing demand for support and a challengino fundincr landscape. We have seen increasing complexity of survivor circumstances with the compounding housing, healthcare and cost of living crises. Despite this, our team sensitively delivers news of long waiting lists or closed support, while continually assessing risk and any need for additional statutory support. Navigators are skilled at delivering difficult infomiation empathically, providing professional consultations to professionals, and advocating with statutory services for clients with more complex needs or facing muliiple batTiers. Feedback for London Survivors Gateway 2023-24: °Professional and understanding" Amazing for her to be the first point of contact, gave me confidenc8 to continue with my case" "Fantastic service" Navigators and lines workers were"described as: "Fantastic... patient and kind and gave me 8 lot of useful infom?ation" 18
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'AKNUAL REPORT (SNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 New Developments Sexual Violence Laer5 Pilot (2024-25) For 2024-25, WGN will introduce a new Sexual Violence Lawyers service whith will provide free, independent legal support to rape survivors, aiming to improve their experience, build trust in the crirninal justice system (CJS), enhance health outcomes, and streamline policè investigations. The service will offer legal advice for general enquiries, and specific support for survivors asked to provide digital or third-paty materials. This includes direct liaison with the police and CPS, &s well as submitting written representations to both and the courts. Our lawyers will help sur.vivors navigate various justice mechanisms. such as pursuing a Victims. Right to ReVIV (VRR), and assist in making or reviewing Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme applications. Our aims are: More survivor5 will have access to critical advice on navigating the CJS ISVAS will benefit from greater access to legal guidance and support for their clients Financial Review During the year WGN received income of £7,109,564 (2023 £6,440.995) and incutTed expenditure of £6.985,126 (2023 - £6,191,159) showing an overall surplus of £124,438 (2023 - £249,836). At 31 March 2024 general unrestricted reserves totalled £1,170,295 (2023 - £1,073,064) and restricted reserves were £226,961 (2023 - £199,754). £7,109.564 £6.440.995 £6.985,126 £6,191.159 2024 SURPLUS £124438 2023 SURPLUS £249,836 19
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 TOTAL EXPENDITURE: £6,985,126 COST OF RAISING FUNDS £27,802 CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE DIRECT CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE £3.777,184 CHARITABLE EXPENDITURE £6,957,324 STAFF COSTS £2,627,852 SHARE OF GOVERNANCE COSTS £17,494 SHARE OF SUPPORT GOSTS £534,794 Reserves Policy The trustees have examined WGN's reserves requirements, considering the main risks to the oiganisation and any reserves restrictions asserted by funding bodies. We have established a reserves policy for unrestricted ndS that have not been desiJq iated, of between 3-6 months of the projected annual expenditure (not including payments made to partners). This budgeted expenditure for 2024125 is £4.299,460 therefore the reserves target is between £1,074.865 and £2,149.730. The level of free general reserves not tied up in fixed asset5 at 31st March 20?4 was £1.170,295, within the reserves policy (2023-£1,072,8?7). Pay Policy The trustees set the rernuneration of the key management personnel by comparing job descriptions with similar roles in comparable organisations and other external data of its comparators. Principal Funding Sources During this period, WGN received funding from London Councils, The Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC), The London Boroughs of Houn51ow, HammersTnith and FulhaTn, Westtninster and Kensington and Chelsea. The Ministy of Justice. The Safer London Foundation/MOPAC, London Hostels Association, NHS England, Brook and London Havens. The funding enabled WGN to continue delivering all its main services as well as developing new specialist and innovative services aimed at supporting women and girls who have experienced all fonns of gendered violence. We would like to acknowledge the generous donation we received from the AKO Foundation. 20
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Plans for Future Periods The key plans for the 2024n5 financial year are= To continue strengthenino service users, active participation in developing and shaping new and existing services through our Experts by Experience Groups To develop support services for clients on waiting list5 ¢.g. etnotional 5UPPOrt sessions and awareness raising seminars To review WGNS senior leadership team structure To strengthen and consolidate services and the core infrastructure. Structure, Governance and Management Governing Document Women and Girls Network (WGN) was founded in 1987. On l April 2013 all the assets of the unincorporated association were transferred to the charitable Company limited by guarantee. The charitable company is governed by its articles of association and is overseen by a iy)ard of Trustee5, consisting of individuals listed in this document. Their tenns extend until the initial Board meeting of the following year, during which they may seek re-election. The Board must have a minimum of three and a maximum of ten elected Trustees, with no one under 18 eligible. Recruitment and Appointment of Trustees Each year. one-third of the current Trustees or the nearest approximation if not divisible by three retire during the initial Board meeting. The longesl-serving Trustees since their last election are subject to retirement, with selection by lot if appointed on the same day. Retlring Trustees can be re-elected. Appointments, retirements, and removals of Trustees and the Company Secretary, if appointed, must be reported to the Registrar of Companies. The Board can appoint individuals to fill vacancie5, granting them voting rights until the next calendar yeaT'S initial Board meeting. where they tnay be elected. The Board conducts tneetinu5 following Articles of Association guidelines. Decisions are by majority vote. with each Trustee, including the Chair, having one vote. A quorum requires one-third of Trustees, with a miT]imum of three.Trustees airn for diverse membership, emphasising representation from Black and Minority Ethnic communities and survivors of gendered violence. including former service users. An amiual skills audit idenlifies deficits. and new rnernbers with required expertise are recruited. Trustees Induction and Training New Trusfres undergo an induction program and access internal and external training, including financial management. Organisational Structure The Board ove]sees the strategic plan, fmancial and perfomiance reports, and risk assessment. Sub<ommittees are established for specific managerial areas, reporting to full Trustee meetings. Trustees delegate authority to the Senior Leadership Team, supervised by the Chair, responsible for implementing the strategic vision, day-to-day operations, clinical and quality practices, and Staff 5UPPOrt and supervision. 21
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS. REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Remuneration of Key Nlanagement Personnel The trustees set the rern uneration of the key management personnel by comparing job descriptions with similar roles in comparable organisations and other external data of its comparators. Risk Management The charity records major organisational risks in its risk register, encompassing operational. reputational, financial, and strategic aspects. A risk management strateJo TS developed accordingly. This register undergoes regular reviews as part of an ongoing process. Risk management includes identification, assessmenL action planning, and periodic rnonitoring. Priorilisation addresses high-significance, high-probability risks with primary attention. Contingency plans cover hicrh-significance, low-probability risks,. whlle internal controls improve low-significance, high-probability risks. Trustees ensure mitigation measures for major risks. considering actions to reduce likelihood or impact. Risk management is monitored annually, with regular updates to Trustees and ongoing oversight by the Directors and CEO'S. During the reporting period, the following key organisational risks were identified: Staff Retention & Financial WGN continues to face significant financial and operational challenges, exacerbated by the overwhelming demand for our counselling and advocacy services. Our reliance on key funders, such as London Councils and the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime, creaies uncertainty around long-terni sustainability, prompting us to seek alternative revenue sources. This strain is not unique to WGN- our partners, including Solace and EACH, are experiencing similar pressures. Women's Aid (2024), in their paper on 'Tackling the Recruitment & Retention Crisis. aptly describe the Cuent landscape: "The impact of austerity and p¢)or investment in tackling VA WG, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rising cost of living have all had acute impacts on our sector. This has resulted in undervalued and short- terni contracts, underfunded and overstretched services which cannot meet demand, and low pay for highly specialist staff." Staffing shortages, driven by non-competitive salaries, burnouL and the cost of living crisis, have made it increasingly challenging to recNit and retain both paid staff and volunteers. This has placed Significant strain on our existing team in recent years, reduced our skilled workforce. and raised concems about the long-tenn sustainability of our services. Every area of WGN has been affected by staff shortages. leading to frmporary waiting list closures and the implementation of interim support measures. There is a pressing need for sustainable investment in Specialist VAWG service5, alongside urgent refom in funding and commissioning practices. However, with the new structures now in place with an expanded leadership team and a bigger enhanced HR team, we are able to attract and fill vacancies at a much faster rate than in previous years. However, havino said this the funding streams are tight and give no assurance of ontinuity in futyre years. External Factors Ongoing Challenges with Police, CPS and statutory services A significant and persistent issue has been the shortage of Sexual Offences Investigative Technique (SOIT) officers. This shortage has resulted in delays in responses to both survivors and ISVA5. leaving many survivors without updates on their cases for months. The lack of consistent communication creates a sense of limbo for survivors, heightening their emotional distress and uncertainty. 22
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Compounding this, delays in police investigations continue, with officers frequently taking longer to complete investigations before referring cases to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The high turnover of both SOIT and Officer in Charge (OIC) otTicers within the Metropolitan Police is a serious concern. as case5 are often reassigned multip'le times. leading to fttrther delays. Many sexual offence cases are being investigated by non-specialist police officers. which cornpromises the quality and efficiency of the investioation. This lack of specialist knowledge results in Slower case progression and a need for increased ISVA intervention to advocate for survivors. According to the Breaking Report from December 2023, the backlog of sexual offence cases awaiting trial in Crown Court reached a Tecord high of 9.792. a 230/0 increase from the previous year and an 85 % increase since 2020. Adult rape cases waiting to go to court now stsnd at 2,591, addin- further strain on the justice system. Survivors continue to face Significant challenges in their.interactions with the police and social services. Rewrts of victitn-blaming. disrnissive attitudes, and POOT practices by social services hinder survivors. ability to access justice and receive appropriate support. WGN and its partners are actively working to address these issues through training and advocacy. but the systemic nature of these problems requires ongoing effort and collaboration across the sector. Court Delays and Section 28 1n¢onsist¢nci¢s Court delays are a reCUlng problem. with multiple trials postponed due to batTiSters double-booking or logistical issues. For example, one survivor's trial. initially scheduled for Novernber 2023, was delayed twice due to prosecutor scheduling conflicts. causing significani distress. The lack of barristers and court resources has contributed to these repeated delays, adding to survivors, fiwstration. Inconsistencies in handling Section 28 application5, which allow survivors to pre-record their testimony, are also a concern. Processing these applications is taking too long. artd some are being rejected without clear explanations. In one instance, a survivor's Section 28 application was delayed just befo her hearin& after she had prepared to give her testimony, leaving her devastated and disillusioned with the system. Delays in Charges and Police Investigation Stagnation Delays in case progression remain a key challenge. Some cases remain under police investigation for years without being referred to the CPS. One particularly troubling case involves a client whose case has stagnated for 5.5 years due to tnultiple OIC changes and long-terni police absences, with no clear plan for continuity. Despite assurances from senior officers, no concrete steps have been taken to progress the case. This underscores the need for a forn]al escalation process to ensure cases receive tirnely attention from senior olyicers. On a positive note, three clients were infoTmed of CPS charging decisions during this Teporting period, although none were under CPS London's jurisdiction, highlighting regional discrepancies in case progression. Housing Crisis The housing crisis presents a severe challenge foi survivoi.5, particularly those supporttd by WGN and it5 partners. The shortage of suitable and affordable housing intensifie5 the difficulties women face when tying to escape abusive situations. Many survivors are forced out of London due to a lack of suitable emertsency accommodation. rising rents, and limited council housing options. This often leads to prolonged stays in inadequate Conditions. WGN'S Advice Casework team frequently encounters survivors struggling with unsuitable temporary accommodation, severe disrepair issues. and complex legal barriers when dealing with local authorities and housing providers. Addressing these issues requires extensive advocacy, including filing complaints, seeking intervention from MPS, and appealing to the Ombudsman. 23
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, IiEPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 This crisis disproportionately affects global majority women and girls, particularly those with 'no recourse to public funds, In March 2024, Women & Girls Network joined other VAWG services in a joint statement on the Social Housing Allocations Consultation, expressing concerns about the government's now-scrapped 'British Homes for British People, proposal. The statement noted that such proposals would have created additional barriers and discrirnination for survivors of domestic abuse and V A WG, further limiting their access to safe and affordable housing amid unprecedented financial pressures on local councils. Looking ahead to 2024-25. WGN anticipates continued challenges in housing access. Despite the scrapping of the proposal, survivors of domestic abuse and VAWG will likely face increased baleT$. Local counci15 are under severe financial strain, which rnay affect their ability to provide essential social housTng and support services. Mar(winalised client5, including migrant survivors. are expected to experience these challenges vnore acutely due to existing barriers. In 2024. WGN will continue to advocate for essential changes ill housing and support services for survivors of VAWG. Within that statement we called on the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to prioritise expanding social housing and ivnplementing necessary refonns. We urge the Government to addres5 local connection restrictions and joint tenancy fOrni promptly, allowing survivors to make the best choice for their situation whether stayintr in their current home or moving to a new one- without facing negative impacts on housing allocations. Most importantly. we demand urg¢nt measures to en5UTe equal access to critical domestic abuse support and safe accommodation for all survivors. including those with no recourse to public funds. Cost of Living Crisis The ongoing cost of living crisis has intensified financial hardships for both service users and WGN staff. Survivors are struggling with soaring housing costs, inadequate benefits, and financial batTiers ihat hinder their ability to leave abusive situations or achieve financial independence. EVA W's 2022 ' Statement on behalf of V A WG organisations in England & Wales on the Cost of Living Crisis, describe this further stating "Women are being forced to make the unthinkable decision of staying in dangerous situations becaLLse they fear they are unable to survive economically on their own. This fear is intensified by the increased risk of homelessness, food insecurity and loss of custody of their children that can be caused by economic instability" WGN'S clinical teams are InCreinglY involved in advocacy work due to the financial challenges many clienls face. This necessary shift in focus has at times limited their ability to pr()vide more in-depth therapeutic support. In sorne cases, therapy sessions have had to be temporarily paused to address clients, urgent advocacy needs, allowing them to stabilise and access practical support before resutning deeper therapeutic work. Mcntal Health and Wellbeing The Tnental health implications of unstable housing. financial struggles. and inadequafr statutory services are profound. WGN, in collaboration with partners like Ashiana and Solace, notes that the deteriorating mental health of survivors places additional pressure on frontline services. WGN'S SenioT Clinical Team reports that many clients are presenting with COTnplex mental health needs exacerbated by the cost of living CTISIS. These clients require extensive support. including advocacy with social services and rnental health teams. to ensure timely and appropriate care. However, the capacity ol these statutory services is often stretched. leaving survivors on waiting lists for prolonged periods and forcing WGN to provide interim support, whi¢h rther strains resources. WGN consistently handles a high volume of complex, high-risk cases, particularly those involving mentsl health and vulnerability. The closure of waiting lists and the limited capacity of counselling services mean that survivors with cornplex needs often struggle to access the support they require. This situation is further aggravated by service disruptions, such as staff holidays and bank holidays, which can lead to delays in service provision and impact the continuity of care for clients. 24
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (fNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Poliey* Legal, and Coordination Chgllenges WGN and its partners face significant challenges related to policy implementation, legal barriers, and coordination with statutory services. The introduction of policies like the Dotne5tic Abuse Act (2021), concerns about 'parental alienation, allegations, and issues related to immigration status create additional hurdles for survivors seeking support. Coordination with Children's Social Services and other statutory bodies is often fraught with difFiculties, requiring extensive advocacy to ensure that Safeguarding duties are met and that survivors receive the necessary support. WGN'S Advice Casework team is actively involved in addressing these systemic shortcomings, using creative strategies to amplify client voices and pursue legal avenues when necessary. Operational updates During 2023-24, Women and Girls Network (WGN) undertook significant operational changes aimed at enhancing our organisational capacity and effectiveness. A pivotal aspect of this transforniation has been our inveslment in new leadership roles, including the appointments of a Director of Finance & Resources and a Director of Services and creation of two CEO roles: Clinical and Development. These roles are designed to provide strategic oversight and ensure that our services are aligned with our mission to support women and girls effectively. To further support the operational upgrades, we have invested in upgrading our systems and processes. This includes the planned implementation of new IT systems and the procurement of updated IT equipmenL as well as transitioning from a manual HR system to a comprehensive HR software solution. Additionally, we have introduced new fmancial software that will streamline our financial operations, ensuring greater accuracy and effjciency in our reporting and budgeting. To bolster our operationa] capabilities, we have expanded our teams, notably by hiring a Senior IT Officer and growing our HR team to incorporate in-house expertise and support. This strategic move allows us to provide more responsive and tailored services to our stakeholders, mainly staff who are working directly with our survivors, while enhancing our internal support structures. Furthern]ore, we are planning the restructuring of our finance nctIOn to improve oversight and accountability, ensurlng that our fmancial management aligns with the best practices and regulatory requirements. Significant time and resource5 have been dedicated to developing new wlicies and Procedures that will guide OUT Work and 5UPPOrt our strategic goals. These new policies will be released in 2024-2025. These operational changes are driving greater eificiencie5 acros5 the organi5ation, significantly reducing workloads for our staff. This reduction not only contributes to better overall wellbeing and job satisfaction but also enables us to locus on delivering high-quality services to our beneficiaries. Enhanced recrnitment prdctices are allowing us to fill key roles more effectively. ensuring that we attract and retain top talent to support our mission. Furthermore, the strategic investment in technology is anticipated to result in long-tern) cost savings. allowing us to allocate resources more efftctively and sustainably. As we look towards 2025, these operdtional improvements are expected to yield substantial benefits, including improved service delivery, increased organisational resilience, and enhanced capacity to respond to the evolving needs of women and girls in our community. By investing in our leadership, systems, and teams. WGN is positioning itself to achieve its objectives mor¢ effectively, ensuring a sustainable and impactfuE future lor the organisation. We are committed to ongoing evaluation and refinement of these initiatives, with a clear focus on tneasurable outcomes that will enhance our service delivery and support to the cornmunities we serve. Overall, these comprehensive changes .lay a strong foundation for WGN to thrive in its mission to empower and uplift women and girls, fostering an environment that prioritises safety, supporL and wwth. In 2024-2025 we plan to continue investing in our operations, including enhancing our technolo&Y, con)munication. staff benefits and focus on becoming an employer of choice. as well as ensuring we are able to manage through the cost of living crisis and support our staff and survivors equally as best we can. 25
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'AKNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Reference and Administrative Details Charity registration number: 1150354 Company registration number: 08286856 Registered office: 8 Blackstock Mews London N4 2BT Operational address: PO Box 13095 London W14 OFE Direetors and Trustees The Board of trustees constitutes directors of the company for the purpose of company law and trusfres for the purpose of charity law. The trStees serving during the year and since the year end were &s follows". Sabrina Qureshi Donna Carty Katherine Taylor Dr Sandra Gulyurtlu Rani Selvarajah Asma Bhol Sally Thomas Vanessa Freeman Runa Begum Chair Vice-chaii & Acting Treasurer Secretary Treasurer (resigned 21 August 2024) (resigned 2 November 2023) (resigned 27 September 2023) The trustees elected at the Annua] General Meeting. No trustee received any remuneration for services during the year, nor did they have any beneficial interest in any contract with the charity. Exeeutive Team: Akima Thomas Gurpreet Virdee Mehreen Mir Ifeoma Williams CEO of Services CEO of Development Director of Finance and Resources Director of Services Statutory Auditors: Barcant Beardon Limited Chartered Accountants 8 Blackstock Mews London N4 2BT Bankers: HSBC 512 Brixton Road Brixton London SW9 8ER Nationwide Building Society Kings Park Road Moulton Road Northampton NW3 6NW Triodos Bank Deanery Road Bristol BS15AS Solicitors: Russell-cooke Solicitors 2 Putney Hill London SW15 6AB 26
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMEBERS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Opinion We have audited the financial statemerfrts of Women and Girls Network for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the Statement of Financial Activities, the Balance Sheet and notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards including Financial Reportlng Standard 102 The Finaplcial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {Ur]ited Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements: give a trne and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affair5 as at 31 March 2024, and of its incom ing resources and application of Tesources, 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 properly prepared in accordance with the requirement of the Companies Act 2006. Basisfor oplnlon 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 auditor's 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 UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fijlfilled 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 relaling 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 ffftancial statements is appropriate. Based on the work we have perfomjed, 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 peri(Kl of at least twelve months frotn when the financial stalements 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. Other infornwÉioA The other information comprises the inforniation included in the trustees, annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinioT] on the financial statements does not cover the other infonnation and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our repori we do not express any fonn of assurance concluston thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other infonnalion and, in doing so, consider whether the other inforniation 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 01 apparent material misstafrments, we are required to detennine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the fmancial statements thernselves. If, based on the work we have perfornied, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other infom]ation, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. 28
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK TRUSTEES'ANNUAL REPORT (tNCLUDING DIRECTORS, REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Statement of Trustees Responsibilities The trustees (who are also the directors of Women and Girls Network for the purpose of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Annual Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial stafrments for each financial year. Under company law the trustees must not approve the financial slatements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of the affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that year. In preparing those financial statements. the trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently. observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP 2019 (FRS 102). make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. state ivhether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements, and- prepare the financial statemenls on a going concern basis unless it is inapproprtate to assume that the charitable company will continue in operation. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that.the financial statement5 comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. In so far as the trustees are aware. there is no relevant audit infom)ation of which the charitable company's auditors are unaware; and the trustees have taken all the steps that they oughi to have taken in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit infomation and to establish that the auditors are aware of that inforniation. The trustees are responsTble for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial infonnation included on the charitable company's websits. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdiction5. Public Benefit Statement The trustees confirni that they have complied with the duty in section 4 of the Charities Act 201 I to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefiL "Charities and public benefit" These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (FRS I O?) and in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small entities. This Report was approved by the Trustees on1611212tsnd signed on its behalf by.. Donna Carty Vice Chair of the Wome Vanessa Fi eman Trustee of the Women and Girls Network Girls Network 27
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMEBERS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Opinion on other matters prescribed by iiie Companles Act 2006 In our opinion. based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit: the infomiation given in the trustees. report, which includes the directors, report prepared for the purposes of company law, for the financial year for which the fmancial statements are prepared is consistent with the fancial statements" and the directors, report included within the trustees. report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirement5. Motters on whlch we ore required lo report by eq)lion In the light of our knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audi¢ we have not identified material misstatements in the directors, report included within the trustee5' report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branche5 not visited by us. or the financial 5taternents are not in agreement with the accounting records and retums. or certain disclosures of trustee5' remuneration specified by law are not made. or we have not received all the inforniation and explanalions we require for our audit. or the trustees were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies, regime and take advantage of the small companies, exemptions in preparing the directors, report and from the requirement to prepare a strategic report. Responsibililies ofiruslees As explained more fully in the trllstees, responsibilities statement set out on page 21, 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 statetnents and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees deterrnine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statetnents that are free from material misstatemenL 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 oncern basis of accounting unless the trnstees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to ceas¢ operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. Audllor s responsibilitiesfor tlie audit of Ihefinancialslqlements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assuran¢e about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guardntee 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 fmancial statements. 29
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMEBERS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 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.. the engagement partner ensured that the audit team had the appropriate cornpetence, capability and skill to identify and recognise any non-compliance with applicable laws and regulations,. we identified such laws and regulations applicable from our discussions with trustees and other management and from our knowledge and experience of the sector; we focused on specific laws and reuulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the financial statements or the operations of the charitable company, including the Companies-Act 2006, the Charitie5 Act 201 l and the Charity SORP (FRS 102). we considered the provisions of other laws and regulations that do not have a direct effect on the financial staternents but compliance with which might be fundamental to the charitable company's ability to operate or to avoid a material penalty, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Anti-fraud, bribery and corruption legislation, Taxation legislation and Employment legislation- we assessed the extent of compliance with laws and regulations identified above through making enquiries of management and inspecting legal correspondence; and identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit. We assessed the susceptibility of the charitable company's financial statements tfj) material misstatemenL including obtaining an understanding of how fraud Might occur by- making enquiries of management a5 to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud. and considering the internal controls in place to miligale risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations. To address the risk of fraud through management bias and ovetride of controls, we: perfonned analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships. tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions- assessed whether judgements and assumptions made in deterniining the accounting estimates were indicative of potential bias- and investigated the rationale behind significant or unusual transactions. In sponSe to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included. but were not limited to.. agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documents reading the Tninutes of meetin(TS of those charged with govemance- and enquiring of management as to actual and poteTJtial litigation and claims. Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that complianc¢ with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements. as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error. as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation. rther description our responsibilities is available on the FRC'S website at: s'..'Iwwiv. frc.orEY uL..'.ILidiiors.. audit-assurdncL aLJdilor-s-rLS onsibilities-for-Ihe-audit-of-the-ff,'desci-i tion-of- the-auditort. OEIQ D8UO.995-rLS onsibilities-tor. This description fornis part of our auditor's report. 30
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT TO THE MEMEBERS OF WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Use of our report This report is tnade solely to the charitable company's members. as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable ompany's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpx)se. To the fullest extent penT]itted by law. we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone oiher than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a IN)dy, for our audit work, for this rewrt, or for the opinions we have fonned. KL Mukesh Khatri Senior Statutory Auditor For and on behalf of BARCANT BEARDON LIMITED Chartered Accountants statOry Auditors 8 Blackstock Mews Islington London N4 2BT 31
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING INCOME & EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Incomé and Expenditure Summary Notes Restricted Unrestricted Funds Funds Total Funds 2024 Total, Funds 2023 Income and endowrnents from.. Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investments 107,486 107.486 38,735 6.999.526 2,552 2,552 50,467 6.390,015 513 6.960.791 Total income and endowments 6,960,791 148,773 7,109,564 6,440.995 Expenditure on: Costs of Trising funds Charitable activities 9,288 6,936,296 18,514 27,802 26,741 21,028 6,957,324 6,164,418 Total expenditure 6,945,584 39,542 6,985,126 6.191.159 Net incomel(expenditure) 15,207 109,231 124,438 249,836 Transfers between ndS 19 12,000 (12,000) Net movement in funds for the year 27.207 97,231 124,438 249,836 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 19 199,754 1,073,064 1,272,818 1.022,982 Total funds carried fOard 19 226.961 1.170.295 1.397.256 1272,818 The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised during the year. All income and expendirnre derive from continuing activities. 32
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Notes 2024 2023 Fixed Assets 14 237 Current Assets Debtor5 Cash at bank and in hand 16 1,751,234 963,031 1.822.497 585.605 2.714.265 2,408,102 Creditors: Amounts failing due within one year 17 (1.317.009) (1,135,521) Net Current Assets 1,397,256 1,272.581 Net Assets 1,397,256 1272,818 Funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds - General fijnds 19 226,961 199,754 19 1,170,295 1,073,064 Total funds 1,397,256 1,272,818 These financial statements are prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime. Signed on behalf of the board of trustees Donna Carty Vice Chair of the Women Vanessa Freeman Tru5te¢ of the Women and Girls Network d Girls Network Dafr: The notes on page 35 - 45 forni part of these financial statements. Company Registration No. 08286856 33
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Notes 2024 2023 Cash flow from operating activities Net cash provided by operdting activities 22 374,874 177,245 Cash flow from investing activities Interest income Purchase of tangible fjxed assets 2,552 513 Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities 2,552 513 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents in the year 377,426 177,758 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 585,605 407.847 Cash and cash equivalents'at the end of the year 963.031 585,605 Analysis of cash and cash equivalents Cash in bank and tn hand 963,031 585,605 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 963,031 585.605 34
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting Policies The principal accounting policies adopted. judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows: l. l General informalion and bt75is ofpreparation Women and Girls Network 15 a company limited by guardntee incorporated in and has no share capital. 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. The registered office is 8 Blackstock Mews, London N4 2BT. The charity constitutes a public benefit entity &$ 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 UK and Republi¢ of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Practice. The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historic cost convention. The financial statements are prepared in sterlin& which is the functional cUencY of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. 1.2 Going Concer At the time of approving the financial statements, the members of management committee have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, the Members of management committee continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the fjnancial statements. 1.3 Charitable Funds Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the members of management committee in furtherance of their charitable objectives unless the funds have been designated for other Purposes. Designated funds have been set aside for specific purposes by the trustee5. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors &s to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the accounts. 1.4 Incoming Resources All incoming resources are included in the Ststement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any perfomiance conditions have been met. the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received. Income from grants are recognised at fair value when the charity has entitlernent after any perforniance conditions have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. If entitlement is not met then these amounts are deferred. Training and counselling fees are brought into income when they are earned. Donations are accounted for when received. Interest income is recognised when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is nornially upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank. 35
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 7.5 ROurceS Expended Expenditure is accounted for on an accrnals basis and is inclusive of the VAT attributable to that expense. An appropriate proportion of the salary charge is attribufrd to fund raising. Governance costs mainly comprise audit and accountancy fees. Expenditure is allocated to funds directly or on the basis of staff t.ime or usage. 1.6 Tangible Fi¥ed Assets Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at C05t or valuation, net of depreciation and any iTnpairment losses. Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation. Assets with an individual cost of less than £2,000 are written off in the year of purchase. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each a55et over its expected useful life. a5 follows- Fixtyres, fittings & equiprnent Computers 250/0 per annum on cost 330/0 per annum on cost The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is deterniined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset and is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. 1. 7 Impairment ofFixed Assets At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to deterniine whether there is any indication that those assels have suffered an irnpairnient loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estirnated in order to deterniine the extent of the impairnient loss (if any). 1.8 Cash and Cash Eqtsivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-terni liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within bOow1ngS in cuffent liabilities. J. 9 ,Financial Instrumenls The charity 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. 1.10 Employee Benefits The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee's Services are received. Tennination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terniinate the employment of an employee or to provide terniination benefits. l. J l Retirement Benefits Payments to defed contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. 36
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 CrlllcalAecountlng Esllmoles and judgettnIS In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the members of management comrnittee are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from oiher sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causincv a material adjustment to the carying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are listed below: 2. 1 Cost allocallon Support Costs are allocated across all charttable activilies. Dependent upon each type of support activity, costs are applied dfftrectly against a function or approprTate cost drivers such as time allocations are utilised. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only thal period, or in the period of the revision and tUre periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. Incomefrom Donalions and Legacies Unrestricted Funds 2024 Unrestricted Funds 2023 Donations and gifts General Grants 6,486 ioi,000 25,467 25,000 107,486 50,467 Incomefrom Cliarilable Activiiies Cliarllable Actlvllles 2024 Grants 2024 Fees 2024 Total 2024 Total 2023 Fees Perfonnance related grants 38,735 38,735 6.960,791 252,229 6,137,786 6,960,791 6,960.791 38,735 6,999,526 6,390,015 Cliarilable Acliwties 2023 Grants 2023 Fees 2023 Total 2023 Total 2022 Fees Perforniance related grants 252,229 252,229 98.650 6.137,786 4,755217 6,137,786 6,137,786 252,229 6,390.015 4,853.867 37
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 4.1 Income from charitable activities was £6,999,526 (2023 - £6,390,01S) of which £6,960.791 (2023 £6,137,786) was attributable to restricted ndS and £38,735 (2023 £252,229) was attributsble to unrestrTcted funds - general. 4.2 Performance related grants 2024 2023 London Councils MOPAC MOPAC funding through partners Advance NHS England Small grants 1,504,180 4,509,291 302,667 88,600 539,420 16,633 1.520.138 3,750.940 262.825 90,600 450,000 63,283 6,960,791 6,137,786 Incomefrom Invulments Unrestricted Funds 2024 Unrestricted Funds 2023 Interest receivable 2,552 513 ErpendiÉure on Raising Funds 2024 2023 Staff costs 27.802 26,741 6.1 Of th¢ £27.802 expenditure in 2023 (2023 £26.741). £9,288 (2023 £14,280) was attributable to restrictrd funds and £18,514 (2023 - £12,461) was attrtbutable to unrestric*d funds - general. Analysis of Expendilure on ChorilobleAdiwlies Direct Direct Charitable Charitablè Expenditure Expenditure 2024 2023 Staff costs Dirert charitable expenditwe 2,627,852 2,523,536 3.777,184 3,323,204 6,405,036 5,846,740 Share of support costs (see note 8) Share of governance costs {see note 8) 534,794 17,494 308,073 9,6Q5 6,957,324 6,164,148 38
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 7.J Of the £6,957,324 expenditure in 2023 (2023 £6.164,148), £6,936,296 (2023 £6,137,172) was attributable to restricted funds and £21,028 (202) £27,246) was attributable to unrestricted funds general. Analysis ofsupporl and Governance Costs Basis of allocation Support costs Governance Costs Total 2024 Total 2023 Staff costs Premises costs Insurance oirice support & expenses Financial & bookkeeping (Staffj Legal costs Staff expenses & training Bank charges Sundry costs Audit fee Trustees, expenses Direct Direct Direct Direct Direct Direct Direct Direct Direct. Governance Governance 248.329 24,718 13.264 83,180 96,205 48.706 19.493 887 12 248.329 24,718 13,264 83,180 96,205 48.706 19.493 887 12 17,280 214 128,905 18,692 47,603 73,596 18,445 1.749 5,355 9,605 17,280 214 534,794 17,494 552,288 317,678 Nel IncomeJ(Expendlture)for the Year 2024 2023 This is stated after charging.. Auditor's remuneration Depreciation of tangible fed assets Operating lease payments: Land and buildings 17,280 237 59,718 9,605 893 36,183 io Truslee Remunernlion Qnd Erpenses The trustees were not paid any remuneration nor received any other benefits during the year (2023 - nil). Two trustees (2023 - none) were reimbursed expenses reitnbursed during the year (2023 - £nil). Travel and meeting refreshTnent expenses amounting to £?14 (2023 - £217) wa5 incurred by the charity for two trustees (2023 - one trustee). Trustees. training ¢xp¢ns¢s were £nil (2023 - £700) for the year. Two trusfres (202J one) had a related paty each, who had transactions with the charity during the year. One party (2023 - one) was paid a salary and related ernployment costs totalling £18,681 (2023 £24,405) and incurred expenses totalling £1.136 (2023 - £1,801). The other received consultancy fees of £14246 (2023 - none). No trustee or other person related to the charity had any personal interest in any other contract or transaction entered into by the charity during the year (2023 - nil). 39
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysls ofslaff Costs 2024 2023 Wages and salaries Social security Costs Pension costs 2,482,688 242,972 72,716 2,296,752 232,330 67,465 2.798.376 2.596.547 239,312 151,619 Agency and freelance staff 3,037,688 2.748.166 Jl.l The number of employees who received total employee benefits (excluding employers, pension ontributions) of more than £60,000 is as follows- ?0?4 Number ?0?3 Nurnber £60,001 £70,000 £70.00] £80,000 £80.001 £90.000 During the year pension contributions on behalf of these stsff amounted to £6,680 (2023 - £4,503) 11.2 During the year the company paid £239.312 (2023 £151,619) to independent third parties for the provision of staff. 11.3 The total amount of employee benefrts received by key management personnel is £310,461 (2023 £176.886). The cornpany considers its key management personnel comprise of the Executive Team (2023 Clinical Director and Director of Operntions and Development). 72 Staff Ivumbers The average monthly head count was 81 staff (2023 77 staff) and the average monthly number of full- time equivalent employees (including casual and part time staff) during the year was as follows: 2024 Number 56 2023 Number 54 Project tnanagement and staff Administrative staff 63 59 13 Toralion Women and Girls Network is considered to pass the frsts set out in Paragraph I, Schedule 6 of the Finance Act 201 O and therefore it meets the definition of a charitable company for UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the charity is potentially exempt from taxation in respect of income or capital gains received within categories covered by Chapter 3, Part I l of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gains are applied exclusively to charitable purposes. 40
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 FiKedAssets Computers Cost At l April 2023 Additions 12,326 At 31 March 2024 12,326 Depreciation: At l April 2023 Charge for the year 12,089 237 At 31 March 2024 12,326 Net Book Value.. At 31 March 2024 At l April 2023 237 15 Flndnelal In5trumenls 2024 2023 Carrying amount of fmancial assets Debt instruments at amortised cost 2,552,278 2,336255 Catrying amount of fmancial liabilities Measured at amortised cost 1,277,164 1,103,075 16 Deblors 2024 2023 Operating debtors Accrued income Other debtors Prepayments and accrued income 1,580,497 81,320 8,750 80,667 1.741,900 8,750 71,847 1,751,2i4 1,822,497 17 Credilors.. AmoMntsft711ing due wiiliin oneyear 2024 2023 Operating creditors Taxation and social security Other creditors Accruals 1,171,107 9l5,776 66,543 10,865 142,i37 13,800 57.734 1,317,009 1,135,521 41
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENVS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 18 Penslons The charity contributes towards a defined contribution pension scheme with Aviva. The pension charged to the Statement of Financial A¢tivities represent contributions payable by the charity and amounted to £72,716 (2023 £67.465). 19 Anatysis of Cliarilable Funds 19. 1 Unrestricled Funds- Curreni Year Balance IApr 2023 Incoming Resources Outgoing Resources Transfers Balance 31 Mar 2024 General funds 1,073,064 148,773 (39,542) (i? 000) 1,170,295 Unrestricled Funds- Previous Year Balance IApr 2022 Incoming Resources Outgoing Resources Transfers Balance 31 Mar 2023 General funds 809,862 303,209 (39,707) (300) 1,073,064 Name of unrestrictedfynd Descriptio nature andpurposes ofthefynd General funds The "free reserves" after allowing for any designated funds. 19.2 Restrlcled Funds- Currenl Year Balance IApr 2023 Incoming Resources Outgoing Resources Transfer5 Balance 31 Mar 2024 Ascent Ascent Plus Angelou CouRAGEous DVSV Casework & Counsellors Gateway London Hostels Association NHS England Rape Crisis Project Safer London Other 1,504,180 (1,506,580) 132,245 (132,245) 88,600 (88,600) 808.996 (808,996) 120,429 (120,429) 2,708.779 (2,708,779) 16,633 (51,610) 539,420 (450,669) 991,516 (991,516) 49,993 (49,993) (36,l67) 2,400 34,977 125,579 214.330 39,198 9,600 12,631 199,754 6,960,791 (6,945,584) 12,000 226,961 42
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STA TEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Restrlcted Funds- Previous Year Balance IApr 2022 Incoming Resources Outgoing Resources Trdnsfers Balance 31 Mar 2023 Ascent Ascent Plus Angelou CouRAGEous DVSV Casework & Coun5elloTS Gateway London Hostels Association NHS England Rape Crisis Proj¢Gt Saler London SV Training Other 1,520,138 (1,520,138) 132,245 {132,245) 90,600 (90,600) 867,326 (867,326) 50.594 (50,594) 1.830.714 (1,830,714) 24,983 (25,298) 450.000 (419,082) 1.052,900 (1,053,200) 79,986 (79,986) (32,900) (49,369) 35,292 94,661 34,977 125.579 300 32.900 50.267 38,300 39.198 213.120 6,137,786 (6,151.452) 300 199.754 19.3 Name ofrestricÉedfund Descriplion. nature andpurposes ofthefynd Ascent These projects are funded by London Colmcils through various partnership agreements with other organisations as part of the London Violence Against Women and Girls Consortium. They comprise a dedicated sexual violence helpline, a prevention projecL training. group work, counselling a specialist service on ending harniful practices and an advice service for women and girls who have experienced gendered violence. Ascent Plus Ascent Plus is additional funding into the Advice Service from the Mayor's OtTice for Policing and, Crime (MOPAC). Angelou The Angelou Partnership is a partnership of organisations SUPPOrting survivors of VAWG across 3 west London boroughs. Through the partnership, Women and Girls Network are funded to provide ISVA support. young women's advocacy and additional capacity on the Freephone Advice Line. We are also funded to supwrt frontline practitioners through training and consultancy support. CouRAGEous CouRAGEous is a new pan London partnership project led by Women and Girls Network. The project provides specialist advocacy. counselling, and resilience and prevention programs for minoritised young women and girls experiencing gendered violence, mental health issues andlor multiple disadvantages. DVSV Casework & Counsellors This funding supports predominantly Black and Global Majority survivors to access practical support, resources and therdpeutic Wotk aimed at enhancing their recovery Gateway London Survivors Gateway offers support to all victims and survivor5 of rdpe and sexual abuse aged 13+ to access specialist services. Women and Girls Network leads this service and works in partnership with key sexual violence providers in London. 43
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 London Hostels Association Funding from the London Hostels Ass0¢iation supported additional capacity and development for the Advice Service. NHS England NHS England fvnding brings together the four London Rape Crisis Centres to deliver innovative services for female survivors of sexual violence (SV} London-wide. The project delivers a wraparound therapeutic provision for survivors engaged with the crimTnal justice system. An awareness raising community and professional development programme is aimed at prevention and upskilling staff on good practice working with SV. Rape Crisis Project The West London Rape Crisis Service (WLRCC) is one of the specialist services of Women and Girls Network and is funded by the MOPAC and the Ministy of Justice. The WLRCC provides counselling. group work, body therapies and advocacy services tg women who have experienced recent or historic Sexual violence, including child sexual abuse, rape, prostitution, Sexual assault, sexual harassment, gang related sexual violence, sexual bullying and sexual exploitation. Safer London Safer London Partnership Project funded by MOPAC is aimed at supportino victims, primarily young wornen and girls who are involved in or at risk of gang involvernent andlor at risk of sexual violence and exploitation, primarily within gangs. The project involves delivering one to one casework and advocacy, awareness raising activities, counselling and training for professionals. SV Training This advanced training programme for ISVAS was aimed at supporting practitioners to apply a rnore traurna-infonned approach while managing complex survivor presentations. Other This includes various smaller projects, the m05t significant of which supports young people who have experienced or at risk of any fonn of abuse in Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster. 19. 4 The net transfer of £12,000 (2023 £300) from general ndS to restricted ndS represent a shortfall in restricted funding on those PTojects. 20 Analysts ofNetAssets between Funds- Current Year Restricted Unrestricted Funds Funds 2024 2024 Total 2024 Tangible fixed assets Cash at bank and in hand Other net current assets/(liabilities) l45,641 817,390 434.225 963,031 434,225 145,641 1,251,615 1,397,256
WOMEN AND GIRLS NETWORK NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Anatysis ofNetAssets beéween Funds- Prevlous Year Restricted Unrestricted Funds Funds 2023 2023 Total 2023 Tangible fixed assets Cash at bank and in hand Other net cuent assetsl(liabilities) 237 385,851 686,976 237 585,605 686,976 199,754 199,754 1.073,064 1272,818 21 Operaling Lease Copnmitments At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for minimum l¢ase payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows: 2024 2023 Within one year Betwe¢n two and five years 42,028 23,278 57,928 65,306 65,306 123,234 22 Reconciliation oJNei Income ¢0 Net Cash Flow From opeing Aclivities 2024 2023 Net income for the year AdjusiTnents for: Interest income Depreciation (Increase)Idecrease in debtors Increasel(decrease) in creditors 124,438 249,836 (2,552) 237 71,263 181.488 (513) (301,044) 228.073 374,874 177,245 22.1 Analysis of Changes in Ivet Debt AtIApr 2023 Cash-flows At 31 Mar 2024 Cash in bank and in hand 585,605 377,426 963,031 23 Related Party Trqnsacllons Aside from tnjstee remuneration and expenses disclosed in note 10, there are no related party transactions during the year (2023 - none). 45
WOMEN&GIRLS NETWORK 020 76104678 infOCWgn.Org.uk PO Box 13095. London W14 OFE Charity registration number: l 150354 Company registration number: 08286856 Registered offjce: 8 Blackstock Mews, London. M4 2BT