Charlty Reglstration No. 1151118 Company Registration No. 08376180 (England and Wales) BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT AND UNAUDITED ACCOUNTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 30 MARCH 2024
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Trustees Mrs A Dodd Mrs N Home (resigned 061041241 Mrs K L Partridge Mrs S Seddon Mrs M E Wheatcroft Chair Mrs N Home Secretary Mrs A Dodd Charity Number 1151118 Company Number 08376180 Registered Office Hamill House 112-116 Chorley New Road Bolton BL140H Independent Examlner Mr Andrew Simm FCA Smith & Goulding Limited Hamill House 112-116 Chorley New Road Bolton BL14DH Bankers Barclays Bank plc 1 Market street Bollon BL1 1XA
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) CONTENTS Page Trustees, report Independent auditorf5 report Statement of financial activities Balance sheet Notes to the accounts 10-22
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 The Trustees, who are also directors of the charity and accounts for the year ended 30 March 2024. or the purposes of the Companies Act 2006, present their report The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in the notes to the accounts and comply with the Charity's memorandum and articles of association. the CoTnpanies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporbng 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 (effective 1 January 2019)" Structure. governance and management At a meeting of Trustees and members held on 7 December 2012 it was agreed to establish a Charitable Company to take over the assets and liabilities of Bolton Children's Opportunity Group for Handicapped Children an unincorporated charity with registered number 512813. As a result, Bolton Children's Opportunity Group (COG), a Charitable Company limited by guarantee, was incorporated on 25 January 2013. The company was regislered as a Charity on 6 March 2013 with registered number 1151118 and Company Registered Number 08376180. The unincorporated organisation transferred all of its assets and liabilities to the Company with effect from 1 April 2013. The first Truslees of the Charitable Company were the same as those of the unincorporated organisation. The Trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year were: Mrs A Dodd Mrs N Home Mrs K L Partridge Mrs S Seddon Mrs M E Wheatcroft Under the requirements of the Memorandum and Articles of Association the Trustees are elected to seNe for a period of years, now agreed as three. They relire by rotation and may be re-elected at the next Annual General Meeting. None of the Trustees have any beneficial interest in the company. All of the Trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute an amount not exceeding £10 in the event of winding up. The skill requirements for the Trust Body are regulady reviewed and any vacancy arising is filled by consensus amongst the remaining Trustees to meet the necessary criterta. Trustees are sought whose skills build on the skill base of the existing board of trustees that include sector specific skills such as Health & Social Welfare, Finance, Legal, and Human Resources, The induction process for any newly appointed Trustee comprises an initial meeting with the Chair followed by meetings with the other Trustees. New Trustees receive all the relevant infomiation in respect of the organisational structures and plans, Trustee job descrtption, the Memorandum and Articles of Association, Guidance on Trustee Responsibilities and other relevant Charity Commission Guidance. This is further supported wtth verbal information from Chair of Trustees andlor the other Trustees. Meetings take place at least [ce a year to review the Charity's financial matters and general operating management. Bolton Children's Opportunity Group employs professional people with experience and expertise relevant to the business of the Charity and the young people it supports. The Trustees set and monitor the scale of delegated responsibility invested in the senior management team. Likewise. it Tnonitors and reviews the overall strategy and business plan. The principal office of the Charity is Lowndes St Nursey, Lowndes St, Bolton, BL14QB. Risk Factors The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the Charity is exposed in view of the new funding formula and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. The Trustees are fully aware of Ihe difficulties of maintaining the quality of service it delivers particularly in the Gurrent economic climate and are aware that there may be financial challenges in the future.
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 Related Parties Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council (the Local Authority) provides funding in support of the provision of Early Years Foundation Slage and Bolton Information and Advisory Service (previously Parent Partnership). The National Lotteries Community Fund is currently providing funding for the Nursery minibus servi. Mrs Dodd has been an employee in the role of office administratorl business manager since 1985. She was asked to become a Trustee in October 2017 as the Ofsted officer would only deal wwth a Trustee. Following this the Trustees did not feel they had enough knowledge regarding Qfsted and asked Mrs Dodd to become a Trustee in order to comply with the Ofsted requirements. Mrs Partridge became a Trustee in January 2018 she was then asked to become an employee in September 2018 due to her knowledge as a retired special educational needs teacher and is well versed all aspects of the position as an Information and Advisory Service officer. COG is a full Member of Bolton Together. Bolton Together is a Consortium forvoluntary Organisations. The aims of the Consortium are to share information, represent issues, share specialist training and offer representation on various Bolton Council led consultative groups. COG has been a Member of Bolton Parent Carer Consortium since 2014 when seven voluntary organisations together created Bolton Parent Carer Consortium. The aim is to become a stronger voice for parent carers of children with special educational needs (SEND} in Bolton. Consortium members represent parents and carers groups for health, social care and leisure. It aims for equality of opportunity and choice for disabled and young people aged O- 25 years. COG is a member of Bolton Community and Volunlary Service. Bolton CVS is a charitable company which exists to support voluntary and community organisations and positively promote voluntary action in Bolton. COG is a member of Greater Manchester Council for Voluntary Organisalions. GMCVO is the voluntary, community and social enterprise WCSE) sector support and development organisation covering the Greater Manchester City region. COG is a member of Bolton Early Start Panel (Resourced Nursery Panel). COG is a member of the Early Years Settings Managers Neorking Group. COG is a member of SEND Reforms Strategy Group. COG is a member of the Inclusion Task and Finish Group. COG is a member of the Co-Production Task and Finish Group. COG is a member of Nurture Group Network. COG is a member of North West Information Advice and Support SeNice Network. COG is a member of the Startwell SEND Development GroLtp. Objectives and activities The Charity's objects are specifically restricted to the following.. To advance the education of children and young adults with additional needs within the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton. To promote the development of individual capabilities compelences skills and understanding. To provide a safe environment for group play and activities to encourage children to interact and learn through slructured play. To promote the involvement of parents and guardians to engage more with their child's education including other charitable activities through which they can help their child. The policies adopted in furtheran of these objects are that the group may'.- a) run a playgroup enabling Ghildren with additional needs to mix with normal children. b) foster mutual help and co-operation between parents, guardians, relatives and friends of children with additional needs and those trusted with the care of Ghildren with additional needs. c} raise adequate funds for the achievement of the foregoing object and invite and receive contributions from any persons by way of subscriptions, donations and othetwise, provided that the group shall not undertake any permanent trading activities in raising funds for it5 charitable object. d} hire premises, provide equipment, engage staff, admit children and require such payments to be made as are referred lo below. e) expend money received from any source. fl maintain membership of the Pr&school Playgroups Association and assist in the promotion of that Association.
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 g) do all other things as appear to the Trustees and Senior Management Team to be necessary in pursuance of the objects. and there has been no change in these during the year. Public benefit statement The Charity meets its public benefit obligations by running a playgroup for children with additional needs, running outreach programmes for children with additional needs and providing help and support to children with additional needs and their parents or guardians. Vve believe that the Charity is in an excellent position to provide cost benefits when compared to other service providers in the maintained and private sectors. The Trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the Charity should undertake. Use of volunteers DBS checked volunteers help with the children, preparation of the play sessions and transporting the children to and from home in the Charity's minibuses. They also help with fundraising and answering the telephone. Reserves pollcy It is the policy of the Charity that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be, if possible, maintained at a level equivalent to between three and six month's expenditure. The Trustees consider that reseNes at this level will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the Charity's current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. Strategic Report Achievements and performance The Trustees held three virtual Trustee meetings during the year. The Trustees have focused on work throughout Ihe year lo address critical issues of funding insecurity. The Trustees goal is to ensure that the Charity is able to aesS the Local Authority funding streams. The aim is to guarantee the future viability of each service provided by the Charity. The funding formula forthe Earlyyears Education Grant does not cover transport costs which is an important part of the Charily's service and the Trustees are aware that fund raising is essential to maintain this vital service. A bid to the National Lottery for three years funding towards the cost of providing transport, which had been delayed because of the Covid 19 pandemic, was finally approved and extended to cover 5 years, operating costs and payments commenced in January 2021. Previously the Trustees have expressed ongoing conGems that the financial projections for the Local Authority funding indicale that the sustainability could be precarious for the future of the Charity. In order to address these concerns the Trustees and senior management team have worked towards developing strategies to ensure financial viability these include'.- The fee for the play sessions has remained at £15 per session, since September 2020, this may need to be reviewed in the near future. Although, as more children become eligible for free early years education, increasing the fees would not necessarily bring in more revenue. We are, therefore, going to start Charging for snacks from January 2025. The Local Authority has continued to fund the teacher's salary in Nurture Group, but this may not be permanent situation and the Trustees will continue to monitor the situation. The Charity is involved with the Bolton Hospice Lottery Partnership Scheme, the BWFC Lotteries Partnership Scheme, and is also registered with EasyFundraising and Amazonsmile. The Local Authority expressed a commitment to 5UPPOrt the Charity financially and continue to provide accommodation at the current low rent. Funding for the Nurture Group teacher is currently being provided via Behaviour Support. In line with its training strategy, COG members of staff have completed the following training courses.. 7 members of staff - Aided Language Stimulation 2 members of staff - Joint Attention 1 member o f staff - SENCO introduction 1 member of staff- SENCO training 1 member of staff - SENCO webinars 1 member of staff - 2 SENCO workshops 2 members of staff - Creating environments to promote positive behaviour
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 1 members of staff - Supporting children wilh Communication & Interaction Needs- Sensory Harmony 2 members of staff -Effective ObseNation, Assessment and Planning for children with SEN 1 member of staff - Signalong introduction 8 members of staff undertook a five week Signalong Course 2 members of staff - Understanding Social Communication & Interaction Needs - Autism pathway All members of staff - Autism Pathway 1 member of staff - Social, Communication & Interaction 2 members of staff - Attention Autism Training 2 members of staff - Supporting Early Communication & Language Development 1 member of staff - Esafety 1 member of staff - Supporting Positive Attachments 1 member of staff - Behaviour as Communication 1 member of staff - Enrolled on Level Childcare Training Staff Members attended the following meetings 1 member of staff - Communication Champion workshop 2 members of staff - SENCO briefing 2 SENCO NeOrk meetings 1 Child Protection meeting l Team Around the Child (TACH) meetings 3 Child Action meetings 1 Case Conference 4 Child in Need meetings 14 Teams meetings 7 BASE network meetings 2 BASE panel meetings 15 School visits Staff members have also arranged and held 81 Early Helpl Earfy Help Review meetings 22 Intenl, Implement and Impact Plan (l. l. l }meetings 2 PEP Meetings 20 New Child Visits 1 Looked After Child Meeting 2 Personal Education Plan meetings 2 Professional meetings 2 Safeguarding Network Meetings 1 Dad Matters Course 1 EYFS Cluster Group Meeting 1 Nursery visit We have had several students on work experiencelcollege placements 7 work experience students 1 Health & Social Care student for 1 week The following professionals attended COG to work with individual children or for observational visits= 1 student Health Visitor for half day observation 5 visits from Jo Brown (SEN BASE co-ordinator) 2 visits from Alex Baxter 3 visits from Startwell 1 visit from Social Worker 20 visits from LadyNood Outreach 2 visits from the Leaming Disabilities Team 15 visits from Educational Psychologists (to either observe children andlor speak with parents) 6 visits from Speech & Language Therapy {SALT} 1 visit from Occupational Therapists assessing children, adjusting chairs & standing frames
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 2 visits from a Health Visitor 1 visit from a Student Health Visitor 1 Health & Safety check for Work experience students 14 visits from Primary Schools In addition to the above A Speech Therapy Assistant attends Monday to Thursday each week to work one to one with children from the Yellow Room. C.O.G is registered with Ofsted and following our most recent inspection 3 April 2019 we received the classification of Good. Ofsted said "The management and staff show a real passion to help children achieve the very best they can. Their proactive and dedicated approach helps to improve outcomes for all children. This includes the most vulnerable of children and those who have special educational needs (SEN) andlor disabilities.. The Charity was awarded the Bolton Mark Inclusion Award on 19 May 2015 this award is in recognition of complying with all operating standards sel by the Local Authority deeming the organisation safe, friendly and effective. The accreditalion is a mark of high quality for organisations working within Gommunities. Monitoring achievement The care and education of our children and young adults has been maintained according to our objectives. Each child or young person has been helped and supported to achieve their full potential through individual and group activities. Individual guidance and tuition have been given to each child as necessary for that child or young person to fulfil their potential. During the period 31 March 2023 to 30 March 2024 COG nursery and the High Needs Base (Blue Room} have cared for 71 children, 60 of which have additional needs which is 84.50/0. Many of whom have been diagnosed as being on the Austistic Spectrum. 32 children lefl us during this period, some went onlo specialist provision, others went into mainstream and several children returned to us for a further year. Nurture Grou During the year, we have provided places for 22 children from 14 different schools. Of the children who have attended Nurture Group 14 children joined us from Reception. Two of these returned in Year one to complete their placements with us 9 children joined us from Year one Of the above, two children were looked after (LAC} by the local authority 3 children did not complete their full placement with us, they transitioned back to their Primary school. 10 children did complete their placement, 9 transitioned successfully back to their Primary school and 1 child was permanently excluded from their Primary school. 9 children continued their placement with us. We have had observations and assessments from professionals from outside agencies e.g. from Bolton Educational Psychology service. Bolton Behaviour support seNice and children's social care. In order to support our children, we have also liaised by phone and email and remotely via Teamslzoom supporting our children in a variety of ways. We have had observationslvisits from some staff from the children's schools. These usually last from an hour lo half a day. Mrs Tate (teacher) has been into schools to observe both children who have been referred and children who are Currently attending nurture group to provide advice and support to schools. She has also attended meetings for the children such as PEP, Child protection conferences and reviews. core group meetings, early help reviews and annual reviews, etc. These have been both in person and remotely on Teamslzoom. Currently a high number of our cohort have so¢ial care involvement both at statulory and child in needs level. We have therefore had a higher number of meetingslconferences to support these children which Mrs Tate has either attended or provided reports for. One of our children was selected as a case study for the local authority SEND inspection. Mrs Tate attended a planning meeting with representatives from the local authority, produced reports and attended a meeting with the inspectors. Both the local authority and the inspectors commented on the positive contribution to multi-agency
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEEI TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 working to support the family we were making. In addition, it was commented on that ours was a good example of voluntary sector service providing a positive contribution to the offer this child receives. The Information and Adviso SeNice SEND The Information and Advisory Service (SEND) have provided services to 3200 familieslcarerslchildrenlyoung adults ranging from telephone calls, personal visits, school meetings, arbitration and appeals. So much was the demand the Local Authority agreed to award additional funding for an extra part time member of staff. The Trustees are confident that the Charity's objects have been fulfilled throughout this financial year. Flnancial review During the year ended 30 March 2024 income exceeded expenditure resulting in a deficit on unrestricted funds of £41,887. The net incoming resources on the restricted fund were £2,118. Fundraising income of £669 was achieved during the year. At 30 March 2024 the balance of unrestricted funds carried forward was £76,456. A grant received specifically towards the nursery transport costs amounted to £17,192. This is included within income on restricted funds. The balance carried forward on restricted funds at 30 March 2024 was £6,851. This is comprised of the written down values of furniture, donated by a grant from Bolton Council, two donations for hoists, the balance of the grant from Ihe National Lottery for the nursery transport costs and the balance for the Nurture Group teacher wages, all amounting to £6,851. The Charity received funding from the Local Authority for the Nurture Group Teacher which is included in the income from restricted fund charilable activities. The Charity rents the premises for £1,000 per year, which is below market value, from Bolton Council who also cover thè costs of light and heat and buildings insurance. The Trustees are unable to ascertain the exact value but would estimate the donated facilities at about £25,000. Plans for the future The Trustees will continue to explore new avenues of funding in order to diversify C.O.G.'s funding sources. Monies that had been deposited in a higher yield fixed term savings account, which has now matured, have been moved into the higher yield easy access account in order to maximise income from savings. The Trustees are still looking at ways of minimising bank charges, by possibly changing banks. Following on-going discussions with the Local Authority, additional funding has been secured from Bolton MBC because of the high number of children attending the nursey for whom we receive the Inclusion Fund. This has relieved some of the concerns surrounding the sustainability of the service, under the raised funding formula introduced in 2016. The Trustees are optimistic that this will continue. Statement of Trustees responsibilltles The Trustees, who are also the directors of Bolton Children's Opportunity Group {COG) for the purpose of company law, are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report (incorporating the strategic report and directors, report) and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounling Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102.. The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair vieNV of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the income and expenditure, of the charilable company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently- observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP- make judgments and accounting estimates Ihat are reasonable and prudent- state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements, and
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP {A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) TRUSTEES, REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 prepare the financial statements on Ihe going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business. The Trustees are responsible for maintaining proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements 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 deteclion of fraud and other irregularities. In so far as the Trustees are aware: there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's examiner is unaware., and the Trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the examiner is aware of that information. The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the charitable company's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom goveming the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. I declare. In my capacity of Charity Trustee that= the Trustees have approved the trustees, report (incorporating the directors, report and strategic report} above.. and have auth0ri5ed me to sign it on their behalf. Dated Annette Dodd
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP I report to the Charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the company for the year ended 30 March 2024, which are sel out on pages 8 to 22. Responslbllltles and basis of report As the Charity's Trustees of the company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 {'the 2006 Act,). Having satisfied myself that the account5 of the company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respeGt of my examination of your Charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the '2011 Act'}. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145{5)(b) of the 2011 Act. Independent examiner's report Since the company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act. I confimi that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of ICAEW, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I confim that no matters have come to my attenlion in connection wth the examination giving me Gause to believe: (1) accounting records were not kept in respect of the company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act. or (2) the accounts do nol accord with those accounting records. or (3) the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fairf view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination., or {4) the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended practice for accounting and reporting by charities lapplicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)1. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in Gonnection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the account5 to be reached. Signed... Andrew Slmm FCA Smith & Goulding Limited Hamill House 112-116 Chorley New Road Bolton BL14DH
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP {A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) COMBINED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES & INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Notes Income from: Charitable activities 254,564 150,871 405,435 439,011 Donations 27,412 27,412 33,861 other trading activities 669 669 2,813 Investments 766 22 788 433 Total income 283,411 150,893 434,304 476,118 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 325,184 148,775 473,959 452,179 Raising funds 114 114 23 Totsl expendlture 325,298 148,775 474,073 452,202 Net income I (expenditure) for the year (41,8871 2,118 (39,769) 23,916 Fund balances at 31 March 2023 118,343 4,733 123,076 99,160 Fund balances at 30 March 2024 76,456 6,851 83,307 123,076 The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expenditure account under the Companies Act 2006. The breakdown of the 2023 figures between the unrestricted and restricted funds are in note 19 on pages 18 to 22.
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) BALANCE SHEET AS A T 30 MARCH 2024 2024 2023 Notes Fixed Assets Tangible assets 15 13,640 16,287 Current Assets Debtors 13 29,575 29,390 Cash at Bank and in Hand 12 58,486 101.463 88,061 130,853 Current Liabilities Creditors 14 (18,394) {24,064) Net Current Assets 69,667 108,789 Total Net Assets 83,307 123,076 The Funds of the Charity Restricted Funds 16 6.851 4,733 Unrestricted Funds 18 76,456 118.343 Total Charity Funds 83,307 123,076 For the year in question, the charitable company wa5 entitled to exemption from an audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006. The members have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476 of the Act. The trusteesldirectors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respecl to accounting records and the preparation of 8ccourits. These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime. ial !Jl.2Lk The accounts were approved by the Trustees on ........ Annette Dodd Trustee Company Registration No. 08376180 io
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 1 Accounting policies 1.1 Basis of preparatlon The accounts have been prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards, the accounting policies set out in the notes to the accounts and comply with the Charity's memorandum and articles of association, the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 102} (effective 1 January 2019)" The Charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The accounts have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Ststement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn. The accounts are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the company. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearesl £. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost Convention. The accounts include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the Charity is responsible in law. 1.2 Legal status of the Charity The Charity is a company limited by guarantee and has no share capital. In the event of the Charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £10 per member of the Charity. 1.3 Going concern The Trustees have expressed serious concern5 that the level of funding from the current contracts may not be Sufficient to enable the Charity to deliver Ihe contracted seNices. The Trustees consider that, at the dale of approval of these accounts, the Charity has sufficient reserves to ensure that all liabilities could be discharged in the event of winding up. The accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis. The Trustees consider that the Charity's reserves would not show a material difference if the balance sheet was restated to realisable value. 1.4 Funds The Reslricted Funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and Uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the accounts. Unrestricted funds are funds which are expendable at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the objects of the Charity, and is the sum of the Charity's surplus income over the past 11 years and includes the transfer of net assetsfrom Bolton Children's Opportunity Group for Handicapped Children, a now ceased charity, registration number 512813. 1.5 Incoming resources These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when- 1. the Charity becomes legally entitled to the benefit of use of the resources., 2. an inflow of economic benefit is probable. and 3. the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Investment income is included on the basis of interest receivable in the year. Where income has related expenditure (as with fundraising or contract income), the income and related expenditure are reported gross in the Statement of Financial Activities. Donations, grants and gifts are recognised when receivable. In the event that a donation is subject to fulfilling performance conditions before the Charity is entitled to the funds, the income is deferred and not recognised until it is probable that those conditions will be fulfilled in the reporting period. Income from Gift Aid tsx reclaims is recognised for any donations with relevant Gift Aid Certificates recognised in in¢ome for the year. Any amounts of Gift Aid not received by the year-end are accounted for in income and accrued income in debtors.
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP IA COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE} NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 Income from government contrdcts and other grants, whether'capital, grants or'revenue, grants. are recognised when the Charity has entitlement to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred. 1.6 Donated goods and services Donated services or facilities are recognised when the Charity has control over the item, any conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. Donated professional services and facilities are included in income at the estimated value of the gift to the Charily when received. based on the amount that the Charity would have been prepared to pay for these services or facilities had it been required to purchase them, with a corresponding entry in the appropriate expenditure heading for the same amount. Donaled fixed assets are similarly laken to income at the value to the Charity with the other entry being capitalised in fixed assets. 1.7 Resources expended Liabilities are recognised as soon as an oufflow of economic benefit is probable. Support costs comprise those cosls which are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects ofthe Charity and include govemance costs, finance and office costs. Governance costs comprise of all costs involving the public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulation and good practice. These include costs of the preparation and examination of statutory accounts, the costs of Trustees meetings, rent, subscriptions and costs of any legal advice to trustees on governance or constitutional matters. Support costs are allocaled to each of the activities on one of the following basis: either staff time or number of nursery sessions depending on the nature of the support costs, to best allocate the costs to each attributable heading. 1.8 Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and deposits held at call with banks. 1.9 Leaslng and hlre purchase commitments Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against income on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. 1.10 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows.. Fixtures, fittings & equipment Motor vehicles 150/0 reducing balance 25°/o reducing balance 2 Income from charitable activities Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Fees, funding and grants 254,564 150,871 405,435 439,011 3 Other trading activities Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Fund raising 669 669 2,813 12
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE} NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 4 Investment income Unrestricted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Interest receivable 766 22 788 433 5 Donations Unrestricted funds Restrl¢ted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Donations 2,412 2.412 8,861 Donated services, facilities and goods 25.000 25.000 25,000 27,412 27.412 33,861 The Charity rents the premises for £1000 per year, which is below market value, from Bolton Council who also cover the Gosts of light and heat and buildings insurance. The Trustees are unable to ascertain the exact value but would estimate the donated facilities al £25,000. This is included as income. 6 Commitments under operating leases At 30 March 2024 the Charity had annual commitments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows.. Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Rent due within one year 1,000 1,000 1,000 7 Total expenditure Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Fundraising 114 114 23 Expenditure on charitable activities 46,871 32,350 79,221 83,006 Wages and salaries 276,448 115,643 392,091 365,981 Depreciation 1,865 782 2,647 3.192 325,298 148,775 474,073 452,202 13
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS {CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 8 Expendlture on charltable activities Support costs Unrestrlcted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Activities 2.137 2.137 6,452 Catering 110 1,989 110 2,209 2,302 Insurance 5,427 5,427 5,468 Repairs 4,496 4,496 4,080 Cleaning 6,418 6,418 5,983 Telephone 3,956 433 1,599 5,988 7,279 Stationery and postage 274 1.782 686 2,742 4,314 Motor expenses 3,181 6,251 9,432 9,674 Travelling 165 1,896 2,061 1,392 Staff training 554 405 959 1,173 Sundry expenses 3,219 83 3,302 2,275 Rent 26,000 26,000 26,000 Legal and professional Independent Examiner's fees 2,082 2,082 1,254 3,222 3,222 2,934 Subscriptions 1,328 486 771 2,585 2,265 Bank charges & interest 161 161 181 Allocation of Support Gosts 156,693} 36,144 20,549 46,871 32,350 79.221 83,006 The Charity rents the premises for £1,000 per year, which is below market value, from Bolton Council who also cover the costs of light and heat and buildings insurance. The Trustees are unable to ascertain the exact value but would estimate the donated facilities at £25,000. This is included as expenditure. 9 Use of volunteers DBS checked volunteers help with the children, preparalion of the play sessions and transporting the children to and from home in the Charity's minibuses. They also help with fundraising and answering the telephone. The Trustees are unable to reliably measure their contribution to the Charity. 14
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP {A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 10 Employees l Key Personnel The average monthly number of employees during the year was: 2024 Nurnber 2023 Number staff 24 23 Total 2024 Total 2023 Wages and salaries 367,676 341,478 Social security costs 18,256 18,650 Defined Contribution Pension costs 6,259 5,855 392,091 365,983 In the year lo 30 March 2024 the Nurture Group Teacher was funded by the Charity with the help of a grant from the Local Authority. In the year to 30 March 2024 two Trustees {2023 0) were paid for their employment with the Charity. This amounted to £25,035 for wages and salaries, £944 for social security costs and £0 for defined contribution pension costs. There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60.000 or more. 11 Related parties Bolton Council provides funding in support of the provision of Early Years Foundation Stage, Bolton Information and Advisory Service (previously Parent Partnership) and the Nurture Group Teacher. Mrs Dodd has been an employee in Ihe role of office administratorl business manager since 1985. She was asked to become a Truslee in October 2017 as the Ofsted officer would only deal with a Trustee. Following this the Trustees did not feel they had enough knowledge regarding Ofsted and asked Mrs Dodd to become a Trustee in order to comply with the Ofsted requirements. Mrs Partridge became a Trnstee in January 2018 she was then asked to become an employee in September 2018 due to her knowledge as a retired special educational needs teacher and is well versed in all aspects of the position as an Information and Advisory Service officer. Name of Trustee Amounts paid 2024 Social Pension Total 2024 Security costs Contribution 492 Total 2023 Remuneration Mrs A Dodd 12,659 13,151 13,543 Mrs K Partridge 12,376 452 12,828 12,852 25,035 944 25,979 26.395 15
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 12 Cash at bank and In hand Unrestricted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Barclays Bank plc Current account 50,256 {11,430) 38,826 57,584 Aldermore Bank plc 17,806 17,806 42,047 Barclays Bank plc Minibus account 1,824 1,824 1,802 Petty cash 30 30 30 68,092 {9,606) 58,486 101,463 13 Debtors Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Trade debtors 2.100 5,000 7,100 22,290 Prepayments 200 200 125 Accrued income 6.225 16.050 22,275 6,975 8.525 21,050 29,575 29,390 14 Creditors Unrestricted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Trade creditors 100 165 265 426 Taxes and social security costs 2.949 2,949 4,282 Pension Gosls 2,390 2,390 1.077 other creditors 2,267 2.267 1,050 Accruals 6,048 6.048 2,880 Deferred income 4,474 4.474 14,349 13,754 4,639 18,393 24,064 16
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 15 Tangible fixed assets Fixtures, fittings & equipment Unrestricted Funds Fixtures, fittlngs & equipment Restricted Funds Motor Vehicles Total 2024 Unrestricted Funds Cost At 31 March 2023 53,364 270 13,594 67,228 Additions Disposals At 30 March 2024 53,364 270 13,594 67,228 Depreciation At 31 March 2023 39,146 216 11,579 50,941 Charge for the year 2,135 504 2,647 Charge on disposals At 30 March 2024 41,281 224 12.083 53,588 Net book value At 30 March 2024 12,083 46 1,511 13,640 At 31 March 2023 14,218 54 2,015 16,287 16 Restricted Funds The income funds of the charity include restrtcted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes-. Funds Balance at 31 March 2023 Movement in funds Balance at 30 March 2024 Income Expenditure Depreciation Fumiture 54 (8) 46 Donations 2,728 2,728 Charitable Activities 1,260 133,701 {132,044) {774) 2,143 Minibus running costs 691 17,192 (15,949) 1,934 Total Funds 4,733 150,893 { 147,9931 1782) 6,851 Bolton Council awarded a grant for the provision of furniture. This is in the restricted fund and is being depreciated over its useful life. 17
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 17 Total Movement in funds Balance at 30 March 2024 Funds Balance at 31 March 2023 Movement in funds Income Expenditure Restricted Fund 4,733 150,893 (148,775) 6.851 Unrestricted Fund 118,343 283,411 (325,298) 76,456 Total Funds 123,076 434,304 1474,073) 83,307 18 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total Fund balances al 30 March 2024 are represented by.. Tangible fixed assets 13,594 46 13,640 Current assets 76,616 11,444 88,060 Creditors= amounts falling due within one year (13,7541 {4,639) (18,393) 76,456 6,851 83,307 18
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP {A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 19 Comparatlves for 2023 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total 2023 Income from: Charitable activities 279,141 159,870 439,011 Donations 32,412 1,449 33,861 Other trading activities 2,813 2,813 Investments 430 433 Total income 314,796 161,322 476,118 Expenditure on: Charitable activities 290,980 161,199 452,179 Raising funds 23 23 Total expenditure 291,003 161,199 452,202 Net income l (expenditure) for the year 23,793 123 23,916 Fund balances at 31 March 2022 94,550 4,610 99,160 Fund balances at 30 March 2023 118,343 4,733 123,076 Income from charitable activities Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Fees, funding and grants 279,141 159,870 439,011 Donatlons Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Donations 7,412 1,449 8,861 Donated seNices, facilities and goods 25,000 25,000 32,412 1,449 33,861 The Charity rents the premises for £1,OQO per year, which is below market value, from Bolton Council who also cover the costs of light and heat and buildings insurance. The Truslees are unable to asGertain the exact value but would estimate the donated facilities at £25,000. This is included as income. 19
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP IA COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE} NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 19 Comparatives for 2023 contlnued Total expenditure Unrestrlcted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Fundraising Expenditure on charitable activities 23 23 52,541 30,465 83,006 Wages and salar(es 236,166 129,815 365,981 Depreciation 2,273 919 3,192 291,003 161,199 452,202 Expenditure on charitable activities Support Costs Unrestrlcted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Activities 6,452 6,452 Catering 115 2,072 115 2,302 Insurance 5.468 5,468 Repairs 3,780 300 4,080 Cleaning 5,963 5,963 Telephone 4,547 691 2,041 7,279 stationery and postage 431 3,020 863 4,314 Motor expenses 4,147 5,527 9,674 Travelling 167 1,225 1,392 staff training 245 928 1,173 Sundry expenses 2,275 2,275 Rent 26,000 26.000 Legal and professional 1,254 1.254 Independent Examiner's fees 2,934 2,934 Subscriplions 1,061 475 729 2,265 Bank charges 181 181 Allocation of Support costs (54,2541 34,589 19.665 52,541 30,465 83,006 -20-
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 19 Comparatives for 2023 continued Employees l Key Personnel Total 2023 Wages and salaries 341,478 Social security costs 18,650 Defined Contribution Pension costs 5,855 365,983 Tangible fixed assets Fixtures, fittings & equlpment Unrestricted Funds Fixtures, fittings & equipment Restricted Funds Motor Vehicles Total 2023 Unrestricted Funds Cost At 31 March 2022 51,828 270 13,594 65,692 Additions 1,536 1.536 Disposals At 30 March 2023 53,364 270 13,594 67,228 Depreciation At 31 MarGh 2022 38,635 207 10,907 47,749 Charge for the year 2,511 672 3,192 Charge on disposals At 30 March 2023 39,146 216 11,579 50,941 Net book value At 30 March 2023 14,218 54 2,015 16,287 At 31 March 2022 15,193 63 2,687 17,943 Debtors Unrestricted funds Restrlcted funds Total 2023 Trade debtors 6,900 15,390 22,290 Prepayments 125 125 Accrued income 6,975 6,975 14,000 15.390 29,390 21
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 19 Comparatives for 2023 continued Cash at bank and in hand Unrestrlcted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Barclays Bank plc 54,856 2,728 57,584 Aldermore Bank plc 42,047 42,047 Barclays Bank plc Minibus account 657 1,145 1,802 Petty cash 30 30 97,590 3,873 101,463 Creditors Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total 2023 Trade creditors 191 235 426 Taxes and social security costs 4,282 4,282 Pension costs 1,077 1,077 Other creditors 1,050 1,050 Accruals 2,880 2,880 Deferred income 14,349 14,349 9,480 14,584 24,064 Restricted Funds The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes.. Funds Balance at 31 March 2022 Movement in funds Balance at 30 March 2023 Income Expenditure Depreciation Furniture 63 (9) Donations 2,728 300 (300) 2,728 Charitable Activities 1,249 146,443 (145,522) (910) 1,260 Minibus running costs 570 14,579 {14,458) 691 Total Funds 4,610 161,322 {160,280} (919) 4,733 Bolton Council awarded a grant for the provision of fumiture. This is also in the restricted fund and is being depreciated over its useful life. -22-
BOLTON CHILDREN'S OPPORTUNITY GROUP (A COMPANY LIMITED BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 MARCH 2024 19 Comparatives for 2023 continued Total Movement in funds Funds Balance at 31 March 2022 Movement in funds Balance at 30 March 2023 Income Expenditure Restricted Fund 4,610 161,322 1161,199) 4,733 Unrestricted Fund 94,550 314,796 (291 ,003} 118,343 Total Funds 99,160 476,118 {452,2021 123,076 Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total Fund balances at 30 March 2023 are represented by.. Tangible fixed assets 16,233 54 16,287 Current assets 111,590 19,263 130,853 Creditors.. amounts falling due within one year (9,480) (14.5841 (24,064) 118,343 4,733 123,076 -23-