**Reg. Charity No. 1151456 Company Number 8376060** oO === **Report of the Trustees and Examined Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 for Kingston Carers’ Network** 

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**Kingston Carers’ Network** Reg. Charity No. 1151456 Company Number 8376060 

Kingston Carers’ Network is a registered charity, established in 1994, providing independent information, support and advocacy to people who care for someone living in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. 

A carer is someone who looks after a family member, friend or partner who could not manage without their support. This might be due to a physical or mental health condition, addiction, or substance misuse. Carers are of all ages, and their caring responsibilities can put them under physical, emotional, and because they are unpaid, financial pressure. In the case of children caring for a parent or sibling, this can have significant negative effects on their lives and future opportunities. It impacts their learning and the social activities that their peers get to experience and enjoy. 

At Kingston Carers’ Network we aim to: 

- Improve the lives of carers of all ages 

- Provide information, advice and support to individual carers. 

- Ensure carers have a life outside caring 

- Ensure that the role and expertise of carers is understood, appreciated, 

- and valued locally. 

- Provide input into local service planning and ensure that appropriate 

- services are available to carers. 

- Promote carer involvement in service planning, ensuring their voices and 

- opinions are heard and valued. 

- Ensure that carers are aware of their rights and entitlements. 

- Reduce social isolation and financial disadvantage of carers supporting 

- someone living in the borough. 

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**Kingston Carers’ Network** 

Reg. Charity No. 1151456 Company Number 8376060 

- **Report of the Trustees and Financial Statements for the Year Ended 2023/24 Contents** 

- Page: 4 AGM 2034-24 Agenda 4 Current Staff 5 Report of the Trustees 7 Objectives and Activities 8 Achievements and Performance 10 Chairman’s Report 13 Independent Examiner’s Report 14 Financial Accounts 24 Minutes of AGM 2023 

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**Kingston Carers’ Network** 

Reg. Charity No. 1151456 Company Number 8376060 

## **Annual General Meeting – 11[th] October 2024: 2:00pm to 4:00pm Searchlight Community Centre, New Malden KT3 3RX AGENDA** 

1. Welcome – Tony Woods, Chairman 

2. Apologies for absence 

3. Young Carers’ Conference: Liz Grimwood, Manager Young Carers Project 

4. Adult Carers’ Service: Lily Bath, Manager Adult Carers Team 

5. Heart of Care - Presentation 

6. Report by the Chair/Highlights of the Year: Tony Woods 

7. Introduction to new Chief Executive: Rachael Stokes 

8. Minutes of the 2023 AGM: Tony Woods 

9. Presentation & Adoption of the Annual Accounts for Financial Year 2023-24 

10. Appointment of the Independent Examiner 

11. Election of Directors of the Board 2024-2025 

12. Any Other Business 

13. Closing remarks from the Worshipful the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Cllr Liz Green 

_**The AGM will be followed by a light lunch**_ **.** 

## **Current Staff** 

- Tony Bennett – Chief Executive 

- Diane White – Interim Chief Executive 

- David Still – Deputy Chief Executive 

- Diana Alecu – Mental Health Peer Support Lead 

- Aisha Antwi – Volunteering Coordinator/YCP Support Worker 

- Veronica Attah – Mental Health and Substance Misuse Support Coordinator 

- Steph Bader – Development & Innovations Manager 

- Lily Bath – Manager Adult Carers’ Team 

- Layla Brokenbrow – Wellbeing Coordinator 

- Helen Brunskill - Counselling Admin Worker 

- Jessica Burrows – Mentoring Coordinator 

- Jo Cocup – Office Manager/Company Secretary 

- Mollie Cooke – Generic Carers’ Adviser 

- Lyndsey de Valmency-King – Volunteering Coordinator 

- Vilma Espinoza – Benefits Adviser/Tribunal Representative 

- Katie Glen – Adult Carers’ Support Worker 

- Liz Grimwood – Young Carers’ Team Manager 

- Carol Harvey – Targeted Support Worker 

- Sam Leggett – Young Carers’ Support Worker 

- Priya Lewis – Finance Officer 

- Jo Maye – Communications Manager 

- Klaire Osuji – Young Carers’ Team Assistant Manager 

- Julie Parker – Targeted Support Worker 

- Meera Winder - Adult Carers’ Support Worker/Wellbeing Coordinator 

- Heidi White – Young Carers’ Worker 

- Udari Wickremasinghe - Finance Officer 

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**Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024** 

The Trustees (who are also directors of the company limited by guarantee for the purposes of the Companies Act 2006) are pleased to present their annual Trustee Report, together with the examined financial statements for the year ending 31 March 2024, which are also prepared to meet the requirements for a D irectors’ Report and Accounts for Companies Act purposes. 

## **Structure, Governance and Management** 

Kingston Carers’ Network is a charity registered in England and Wales with the Registered Number 1151456. The charity is a company limited by guarantee and was incorporated on 25 January 2013 and operates in accordance with its written Memorandum and Articles of Association.  New Trustees are appointed in accordance with its Articles of Association. 

**Address** 418 Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 7HF. 

## **Directors** 

Directors who served as members of the Management Committee during the year from 1st April 2023 to 31st March 2024, for the full year (unless stated otherwise) were: 

- Tony Woods Chairman 

- John Mays Deputy Chairman 

- Peter Whatnall Treasurer 

- Bob Humphries 

- Viv Rowlands (Resigned 24/4/24) 

- • Julia Linney (Resigned 23/4/24) 

- Pat Stanley (Resigned 6/10/23) 

- Dawn Whitcombe 

- Simon Post 

- Wydeeswaran Thayalan 

## **Proposal for re-election of Directors** 

Under Article 23 the following longest serving directors, comprising one-third of the Board, are required to retire but available for re-election: 

Simon Post Peter Whatnall Wydeeswaran Thayalan 

Under Article 24 there were no new directors, appointed by a resolution of the Board since the last AGM. 

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## **Officers** 

Officers are appointed by the Board. There have been no new appointments since the last AGM. 

## **Bankers** 

The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, Kingston upon Thames branch and Virgin Money, Kingston upon Thames branch, Shawbrook Bank CAF Account 

**Accountants:** 

Kamp Accountants, New Malden, Surrey. 

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Objectives and Activities 

## **Purpose** 

The purpose of Kingston Carers’ Network is to provide information, support, and advice to carers of people living in the Royal Borough of Kingston who could not manage without their support. This might be due to a physical or mental health condition, addiction, or substance misuse.  As such, the charity is a public benefit entity, and the trustees have had regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance of public benefit. 

## **Target Group – Definition** 

A carer is someone of any age who provides unpaid support to a family member, friend or partner who could not otherwise manage. This might be due to a physical or mental health condition, addiction, or substance misuse. A carer may also be juggling paid work with their unpaid caring responsibilities at home. 

Anyone can become a carer; carers come from all walks of life, all cultures and can be of any age, including children. 

The 2021 Census indicated that there are 12,101 adult carers supporting someone in the borough of Kingston. 

## **Activities** 

The charity provides a comprehensive and holistic range of services, and this has developed in consultation with carers and other stakeholders.  We have adopted the five outcomes pledged by the Government in the National Carers’ Strategy: 

- Not financially disadvantaged 

- Mentally and physically well; treated with dignity 

- Recognised and supported as an expert partner 

- Enjoying a life outside caring 

- Children thriving, protected from inappropriate caring roles. 

Our current services include: 

- Independent information, advice, and advocacy. 

- Young Carers’ Project. 

- Targeted Support Project 

- Help with benefits, grants, and allowances. 

- Signposting and referral to other services. 

- Emotional support. 

- Counselling. 

- Outings and social activities. 

- Programme of health and wellbeing activities. 

- Complementary therapies. 

- Support groups. 

- Carers’ Assessments carried out on behalf of Kingston’s Adult Social Care. 

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**Achievements and Performance** 

## **Adult Carers** 

This year we have supported over 4,701 carers across all our services.  We saw a total of 1,223 adult carer referrals to our Advice Service, which is an increase of 16% on the previous year. A key outcome of our advice service is to reduce the financial hardship of carers. This year we secured an additional £377,632 of new income for Kingston’s carers and families. 

Other key outcomes for adult carers included: 

- 348 Carers’ Assessments and Annual Reviews were carried out by the Adult Carers’ Advice team on behalf of the Royal Borough of Kingston. This was an increase of 28% on the previous year. 

- 2,042 attendances at our carers’ social and wellbeing events. These included fitness classes, visiting the Mayor, walk in Kew Gardens. 

- Our male carer support group grew and included lunches, zoom groups and bowling trips. 

Feedback from carers provides evidence that we are achieving our key objectives. This year: 

79% of carers said they had an improved understanding of their rights. 74% of carers are now recognised as expert care partners. 82% of carers are now enjoying a life outside of caring. 84% of carers have improved mental and physical health. 

## **Young Carers** 

There were 113 young carers referred to our Young Carers ’ Project, and we provided 2,310 respite breaks for 802 young and carers aged 5-18 at 206 activities. 

Some of our key achievements include: 

- 2,310 individual respite breaks were provided. 

- Two weekly sessions held for young carers aged 5-11. 

- Weekly youth group for young carers aged 12-16 

- One to one support sessions were held with young carers. 

- Mental health and wellbeing support provided. 

- Targeted support was provided to young carers and their families with complex needs. 

- Young adult carers aged 16+ attended regular support sessions. 

- Mentoring project provided one to one support to 19 young carers. 

- School lunch clubs provided support in schools. 

- Transition group for young carers moving to secondary school. 

- Young carers and families were supported in multi-agency meetings. 

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## **Volunteering Project** 

This year, we were supported by 91 volunteers who contributed their time and skills in a variety of roles.  Volunteers gave over 3,113 hours of their time, which represents a saving in staff costs of around £40,943. 

The valuable contribution made by our volunteers enables us to expand the service we offer carers, and we could not function effectively without them. Highlights from our volunteering project include: 

- Our activity volunteers spent 1,093 hours supporting young carers. 

- Our adult activity volunteers gave 102 hours support. 

- Our admin volunteers provided 626 hours of administrative support. 

- Our mentoring volunteers provided 375 hours of support to young carers. 

- Our team of student counsellors provided 252 counselling sessions to carers. 

- Our telephone befrienders provided 344 hours of one-to-one listening. 

## **Financial Review** 

As with many charities, KCN faces financial challenges in terms of accessing funding and also increasing costs following recently higher inflation levels.  Many funders tell us that the requests they receive far outweigh what funding they have available.  Despite these pressures we continue to have good success at maintaining our income and also, importantly, maintaining our levels of service to carers.   We are grateful to the many individuals and groups who donate to KCN and offer their financial support through a variety of fundraising activities and regular contributions. 

We work closely with our donors to ensure that the needs of carers are met and that the terms of grants made are complied with.  During the year we have had generous support from RBK, Achieving for Children, City Bridge, the Henry Smith Charity, Trust for London, and the Community Fund. We have received many grants from The Carers' Trust to direct towards individual carer needs.  A particular highlight for us has been receiving significant grants from NHS in the shape of the SW London ICB and also St George's Mental Health Trust in partnership with MIND, and we look forward to developing this relationship over the coming years. 

We are conscious of the difficult environment we work in and regularly review our position to ensure the continuing financial health of KCN.  We manage our Balance Sheet and Reserves to ensure that KCN are able to continue to deliver services through tougher times. 

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**Chairman’s Report for the year ended 31 March 2024** 

## **Kingston Carers’ Network (A company limited by guarantee)** 

## **Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities** 

Kingston Carers’ Network (KCN) is a Company Limited by Guarantee and, since its incorporation on 25[th] January 2013, the charitable company has been administered by its Board of Trustees, who are also Directors of KCN for the purposes of Company Law. As such, they are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Annual Report and the organisation’s financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. 

Company Law requires the Trustees to prepare annual financial statements that provide a true and fair view of the charitable company’s state of affairs, its incoming resources, and the application of those resources, including income and expenditure over the period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: 

- Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently; 

- Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP; 

- Make judgements and estimates that 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 

- Prepare the financial statements on a going-concern basis, unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in operation. 

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company, and which 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 detection of fraud and other irregularities.  The Trustees are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the financial statements. 

As stated below, KCN continues to seek additional Trustees, especially those who have relevant experience and skills that would benefit the organisation. Trustees are recruited based on their skills and experience. All new Trustees are taken through an induction procedure to ensure they understand their responsibilities and have sound knowledge of KCN’s policies and procedures. 

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## **Overview of 23/24** 

Another year, another period of upheaval. In April 2023, we looked forward with optimism to a new chapter in the history of KCN. We were in the process of identifying a new CEO as Diane White, our previous CEO, took up her new role as the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames- a proud achievement for her and also for KCN. We made an appointment in May 2023 and the appointee took up the role in July. However, to be very brief, it soon emerged that the new CEO and the Board had different visions for the organisation, so we agreed to part company just after the Christmas break. It was an uncertain and unsettling period for the staff and volunteers, and I thank them for their patience and resilience. Thus, we began the recruitment process again as we welcomed back Diane White, who agreed to step in once more and keep the organisation on track with help from the trusteesparticularly our treasurer Peter Whatnall and Viv Rowlands, whose presence in the office on a daily basis was much appreciated. 

Despite the upheaval, we continued our essential work supporting over 4000 adult carers and nearly 800 young carers across the borough. The staff continued to provide our range of services and projects, including independent advice and information, advocacy, and support through various programmes like wellbeing activities, befriending services, and support groups for both adult and young carers. They were also dealing with issues like the rising cost of living and particularly the Carer's Allowance scandal, which brought significant attention to the financial struggles faced by unpaid carers in the UK. Many carers found themselves in debt due to overpayments of Carer's Allowance, which were often triggered by minor infractions, such as earning just a few pounds above the strict earnings limit. This has led to carers having to repay large sums, sometimes amounting to thousands of pounds, despite their income barely increasing. The rigid rules, combined with the very low weekly allowance, have plunged many carers into deep poverty, with 62% of those receiving the benefit living below the poverty line. Advocacy groups and carers have called for urgent reforms, comparing this to other long-standing injustices, and highlighting the need for a system that better supports carers who sacrifice paid employment to care for loved ones. Of course, we echo these calls and fully support the Carers UK in their campaign to right this wrong and thank Sir Ed Davey for raising this issue with the Prime Minister in Parliament. The board is, as ever, in awe of our staff and volunteers who tackle such issue head on and ensure we achieve of mission of helping unpaid carers thrive. 

At the board level, we have also experienced recent change. I would like to place on record my and the Board’s thanks to Pat Stanley who stood down as a Trustee last – autumn. Pat was a highly valued Trustee her knowledge of the care sector was unrivalled, and she is sorely missed. We extend our very best wishes to Pat and her husband. As 24-25 started, two other trustees stood down; Julia Linney and Viv Rowlands. Again, I would like to extend our thanks to both for their outstanding contributions to KCN and wish them all the best for the future. 

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And so we look forward to 2024-25 - our 30[th] anniversary year. We have a new CEO in place, Ms Rachael Stokes and we welcome her most warmly. Of course, we continue to face the familiar challenge of obtaining the funding for our projects and services but ‘ twas ever thus. So finally, our thanks again to Diane White for stepping into the breach once more in 23-24. I think she can have a rest now! 

**Dr Tony Woods Chair, Board of Trustees 17 September 2024 For the financial year 2023-24** 

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## **Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Kingston Carers ’ Network (Company limited by guarantee)** 

## **Year ended 31[st] March 2024** 

I report on the accounts of the company for the year ended **31[st] March 2024** which are set out on pages 14 to 23 

## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner** 

The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the accounts.  The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. 

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to: 

- examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; 

- follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and 

- state whether particular matters have come to my attention. 

## **Basis of independent examiner's report** 

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission and Companies Act 2006.  An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records.  It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters.  The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair view” and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. 

## **Independent examiner's statement** 

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 

- 1 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements: 

   - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and 

   - to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, and to comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act 

   - have not been met; or 

- 2 to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

_Masood Shahid  ACA FCCA KAMP Accountants Independent Examiner Chartered Accountant Falcon House 257 Burlington Road New Malden Surrey KT3 4NE_ 

_Date 30.09.2024_ 

Charities, Section C 

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## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES for the YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024** 

|**Notes**<br>Income and endowments from:<br>Donations and legacies<br>4<br>Investment Income<br>4<br>Charitable Activities<br>4<br>Total<br>Expenditure on:<br>Charitable Activities<br>5<br>Raising Funds<br>Other Costs<br>5<br>Total<br>Net Resources before transfers<br>Transfers between Funds<br>12<br>Net before other gains/losses<br>Other gains/losses<br>Net movement in funds<br>Reconciliation of Funds<br>Total Funds Brought Forward<br>Total Funds Carried Forward|**2024**<br>**Unrestricted Restricted**<br>**Total**<br>**Funds**<br>**Funds**<br>**Funds**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>116,036<br>0<br>116,036<br>5,479<br>0<br>5,479<br>0<br>666,644<br>666,644<br>121,515<br>666,644<br>788,159<br>207,374<br>558,879<br>766,253<br>0<br>0<br>12,474<br>0<br>12,474<br>219,848<br>558,879<br>778,727<br>(98,333)<br>107,765<br>9,432<br>105,857<br>(105,857)<br>0<br>7,524<br>1,909<br>9,432<br>0<br>0<br>0<br>7,524<br>1,909<br>9,432<br>198,695<br>41,407<br>240,102<br>206,219<br>43,316<br>249,534<br>**2024**|**2023**<br>**Total**<br>**Funds**<br>**£**<br>134,477<br>1,708<br>604,220|
|---|---|---|
|||740,405|
|||698,249<br>28,260<br>12,503|
|||739,013|
|||1,393<br>0|
|||1,393<br>0|
|||1,393<br>238,709|
|||240,102|



The Balance Sheet continues on the following page. 

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|**KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK**||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**BALANCE SHEET**||**31 MARCH 2024**|**31 MARCH 2024**|**31 MARCH 2024**||
||**Notes**||**2024**||**2023**|
|||**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|
|Fixed assets||||||
|Tangible Fixed Assets|6|30,148||40,361||
||||30,148||40,361|
|Current Assets||||||
|Debtors|7|28,853||12,125||
|Cash at Bank and in Hand||383,782||324,238||
||||412,635||336,363|
|Liabilities||||||
|Creditors: amounts due within one year|8||193,249||136,622|
|Net Assets|||249,534||240,102|
|Reserves and Funds of the Charity||||||
|Unrestricted Income Reserves|13|176,071||158,334||
|Designated Reserves|13|30,148||40,361||
||||206,219||198,695|
|Restricted Income Funds|12||43,316||41,407|
|Total Funds|||249,534||240,102|
|On Behalf of the Management Committee||||||
|Signed     (Peter Whatnall, Treasurer)|PetarUatrale|Uatrale||Dated|30.09.2024|



Notes 1 to 15 on the following pages form part of these accounts 

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## **Balance sheet (continued)** 

## **Trustee’s statements required by the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 31 March 2024** 

In approving these financial statements as Trustees of the company we hereby confirm: 

- (a) that for the year stated above the company was entitled to the exemption conferred by section 477 of the Companies Act 2006; 

- (b) that no notice has been deposited at the registered office of the company pursuant to section 476 of the Companies Act 2006 requesting that an audit be conducted for the year ended 31 March 2024. 

- (c) that we acknowledge our responsibilities for: 

- (1) ensuring that the company keeps proper accounting records which comply with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006, and 

- (2) preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company as at the end of the financial year and of its profit or loss for the year then ended in accordance with the requirements of sections 394 and 395, and which otherwise comply with the provisions of the Companies Act relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the company. 

These financial statements are prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies and in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April 2008). 

The financial statements were approved by the board on 18[th] September 2024 and signed on its behalf by 


**Dr Anthony Woods Chairman** 

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## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

## **NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 2024** 

## **1 Basis of preparing the financial statements** 

The financial statements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102) 'Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015)', Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' and the Companies Act 2006. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. 

- **2 Financial reporting standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions** 

The charity has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemption in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland': - Preparation of a cash flow statement 

- **3 Accounting Policies a)** Income 

All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when the charity is entitled to the income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income: 

Voluntary income is received by way of grants, donations and gifts and is included in full in the statement of financial activities when receivable. Grants where entitlement is not conditional on the delivery of a specific performance by the charity, are recognised when the charity becomes unconditionally entitled to the grant. Income received prior to the period the funding covers is deferred until the period starts. 

Donated services and facilities are included at the value to the charity where this can be quantified. The value of services provided by volunteers has not been included. 

Gifts donated for resale are included as incoming resources within activities for generating funds when they are sold. 

Grants, including grants for the purchase of fixed assets, are recognised in full in the statement of financial activities in the year in which they are receivable. 

Income from investments is included in the year in which it is receivable. 

- **b)** Expenditure 

Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates. 

Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. 

Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity and include project management. They are split using the number of staff hours spent on the main projects. 

- **c)** Expenditure of a capital nature of less than £1,000 is not capitalised but treated as expended in the year 

Tangible fixed assets are stated at their historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Improvements to the buildings are capitalised. Depreciation is provided over the expected useful lives and the term of the leases, as applicable, under the straight-line method. Depreciation is provided from the date an asset comes into use. 

- **d)** The charity is exempt for tax purposes. 

17 



## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts Continued 

## **3 Accounting Policies (continued)** 

The pension costs charged in the financial statements represent the contribution payable by the charity during the year. 

- **f)** Debtors are measured at transaction value less any impairment. At each balance sheet date, debtors are assessed for objective evidence of impairment. If an asset is impaired, the impairment loss is measured as the difference between the carrying amount and the amount expected to be received. 

- **g)** Creditors are measured at transaction value. 

## **4** 

|**Analysis of Income**<br>Donations and legacies<br>Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames<br>Edward Gosling Foundation<br>Donations<br>Investment Income<br>Bank Interest<br>Incoming Resources re Charitable Activities<br>R.B. Kingston<br>Achieving for Children<br>Discretionary Payments   - Carers grants<br>Male Carers Group<br>Carers Trust - Carers Activities<br>Wellbeing & Inclusion Donations<br>City Bridge<br>GLA Young Londoner<br>Young Carers' Activities<br>Awards for All (Youth Group)<br>Jack Petchey Foundation<br>Wellcome Curiosity<br>St George's MHT<br>The Henry Smith Charity<br>Trust for London<br>Inspiring Change YACs<br>SWL NHS<br>Big Lottery Community Fund<br>Trust for London Adults<br>Garfield Weston<br>Fitness and Wellbeing<br>YC Conference<br>Other Restricted Donations<br>Zero check post-population|**2024**<br>£<br>85,000<br>31,036<br>116,036<br>5,479<br>179,800<br>40,000<br>40,000<br>10,132<br>14,013<br>892<br>57,539<br>7,990<br>9,577<br>5,300<br>-<br>21,218<br>85,290<br>33,336<br>250<br>39,045<br>98,776<br>-<br>9,995<br>1,870<br>11,621<br>666,644<br>-|**2023**<br>£<br>101,031<br>25,000<br>8,446|
|---|---|---|
|||134,477|
|||1,708|
|||154,880<br>40,000<br>-<br>6,455<br>9,443<br>1,932<br>60,500<br>7,500<br>7,655<br>2,500<br>10,900<br>35,194<br>-<br>78,350<br>48,300<br>1,448<br>-<br>85,451<br>8,167<br>18,750<br>9,276<br>11,570<br>5,950|
|||604,220|
||||



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## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts Continued 

**5** 

|**Analysis of Expenditure**<br>**Charitable Activities - Unrestricted Funds**<br>Salaries including NI contributions & pensions<br>Recruitment, Training & Expenses<br>Premises and Office Costs<br>Events & Activities<br>Legal & Professional Fees<br>**Charitable Activities - Restricted Funds**<br>Supporting Adult carers<br>Supporting Male Carers<br>Supporting Achieving for Children<br>Supporting Lloyds<br>Supporting Carers Trust Carers' Activities<br>Supporting City Bridge Adult Carers<br>Supporting GLA Young Carers<br>Supporting Young Carers' Activities<br>Supporting Awards for All (Youth Group)<br>Supporting Jack Petchey Foundation<br>Supporting Wellcome Curiosity<br>Supporting Inspiring Change YACs<br>Supporting St George's MHT<br>Supporting The Henry Smith Charity<br>Supporting Trust for London<br>Supporting Trust for London Young Carers<br>Supporting Garfield Weston<br>Supporting Big Lottery Community Fund<br>Supporting RBK Carers<br>Supporting Fitness and Wellbeing<br>Supporting YC Conference<br>Supporting SWL Health<br>Supporting Other Small Projects<br>**Other Costs (unrestricted)**<br>Depreciation<br>Governance costs:<br>Independent Examiner's Fee<br>AGM Costs<br>Data Protection Registration<br>DBS checks|**2024**<br>£<br>168,243<br>5,708<br>21,559<br>8,500<br>3,362<br>207,374<br>146,927<br>6,295<br>33,924<br>0<br>6,793<br>51,680<br>-<br>19,528<br>8,562<br>3,836<br>300<br>17,328<br>94,611<br>30,094<br>-<br>-<br>68,015<br>36,000<br>6,619<br>909<br>20,434<br>7,023<br>558,879<br>10,213<br>1,068<br>160<br>35<br>998<br>12,474|**2023**<br>£<br>138,705<br>4,715<br>26,385<br>2,638<br>116|
|---|---|---|
|||172,559|
|||142,709<br>1,250<br>41,708<br>1,761<br>6,302<br>49,764<br>3,914<br>8,003<br>2,127<br>11,931<br>25,297<br>1,012<br>65,720<br>24,192<br>8,000<br>18,015<br>84,761<br>-<br>14,288<br>6,570<br>4,183<br>4,186|
|||525,691|
|||10,213<br>1,068<br>134<br>35<br>1,053|
|||12,503|



19 



## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts Continued 

- **5 Analysis of Expenditure (continued)** 

|**Support costs included in Expenditure**<br>Unrestricted Funds<br>Supporting Adult carers<br>Supporting Achieving for Children<br>Supporting City Bridge Adult Carers<br>Supporting Young Carers<br>Supporting St George's MHT<br>Supporting Trust for London<br>Supporting SWL NHS<br>Supporting The Henry Smith Charity<br>Supporting Big Lottery Community Fund<br>Total|**Support**<br>**Costs**<br>£<br>28,118<br>15,481<br>4,449<br>8,747<br>5,481<br>2,014<br>3,072<br>8,500<br>5,324<br>7,999|
|---|---|
||89,185|



Support costs are split using the number of staff hours spent on the main projects. 

## **6 Fixed Assets** 

|The movements in tangible fixed assets are comprised as follows:<br>**Carrying value**<br>Balance as at 1 April 2023<br>Additions in the year<br>Balance as at 31 March 2024<br>Depreciation as at 1 April 2023<br>Depreciation in the year<br>Accumulated depreciation as at 31 March 2024<br>**Net book value at 31 March 2024**<br>**7**<br>**Debtors & Prepayments**<br>Amounts falling due within one year<br>Other Debtors<br>Accrued Income<br>Prepayments<br>**8**<br>**Creditors & Accruals**<br>Amounts falling due within one year<br>Deferred Income<br>Trade creditors<br>Payroll liabilities<br>Accrued Expenditure|**Leasehold**<br>**improvements**<br>96,338<br>-<br>96,338<br>(55,977)<br>(10,213)<br>(66,190)<br>30,148<br>**2024**<br>**2023**<br>£<br>£<br>5,875<br>5,875<br>11,350<br>11,628<br>6,250<br>28,853<br>12,125<br>**2024**<br>**2023**<br>£<br>£<br>153,020<br>94,964<br>69<br>-<br>10,845<br>15,133<br>20,369<br>25,165<br>10,445<br>193,249<br>136,622|**Leasehold**<br>**improvements**<br>96,338<br>-<br>96,338<br>(55,977)<br>(10,213)<br>(66,190)<br>30,148<br>**2024**<br>**2023**<br>£<br>£<br>5,875<br>5,875<br>11,350<br>11,628<br>6,250<br>28,853<br>12,125<br>**2024**<br>**2023**<br>£<br>£<br>153,020<br>94,964<br>69<br>-<br>10,845<br>15,133<br>20,369<br>25,165<br>10,445<br>193,249<br>136,622|
|---|---|---|
|||96,338|
|||(55,977)<br>(10,213)|
|||(66,190)|
||||
|||30,148|
|||**2023**<br>£<br>5,875<br>6,250|
|||12,125|
|||**2023**<br>£<br>94,964<br>10,845<br>20,369<br>10,445|
|||136,622|



Deferred income is income received in the current financial year for services to be provided in the next financial year. Hence, grants received from funders where the services will be provided to them in the next financial year have been recorded as deferred income, and are analysed as follows: £ 

|Balance brought forward at 1 April 2023<br>Released in year<br>Income received in year deferred to following year<br>Balance carried forward at 31 March 2024|94,964<br>(94,964)<br>153,020|
|---|---|
||153,020|



20 



## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts Continued 

|**9**<br>**Fee for Independent Examination of the Accounts**<br>Kamp Accountants<br>**10**<br>**Staff Costs**<br>Gross Salaries<br>Employer's NI contributions<br>Pension contributions|**2024**<br>£<br>1,068<br>**2024**<br>£<br>493,181<br>41,997<br>17,011<br>552,189|**2023**<br>£<br>1,068|
|---|---|---|
|||**2023**<br>£<br>449,675<br>35,439<br>24,520|
|||509,634|



The average monthly numbers of employees during the year calculated on the basis of full time equivalents was as follows: 

|Charitable Activities|13|
|---|---|
|Administration|4|



There were no employees who received employee benefits (excluding employer pension costs) of more than £60,000 during the year. 

Termination payments totalling £9214 are included in year end creditor balances. 

## **10.1 Trustees' emoluments** 

No remuneration was paid to any trustee 

## **11 Related Party Transactions** 

No loans made to or received from any trustee. No trustees' expenses were reimbursed. Payments totalling £9675 were made to Carole Whatnall, the wife of Peter Whatnall, 

in respect of sessional work supporting the Adults Carers team. 

21 



## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts continued 

## **12 Restricted Funds Held** 

## **Grants to support:** 

a Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Support to Adult carers b Achieving for Children Young carers c Discretionary Payments Support grants to adult carers d Inspiring Change YACs Young adult carers peer support e Carers Trust Carers activities f Male Carers Group Adult male carers g The Henry Smith Charity Young carers 5-18 h Trust for London Adult carers benefits and tribunals i Big Lottery Community Fund Young carers 5-18 and volunteer support j Young Carers conference Young carers 5-18 k SWL Health Adult carers resilience support l St George's MHT Mental Health support m City Bridge Trust Carers over 65 n Young Carers Activities Peer support activities o Awards for All (Youth Group) Young carers p Children in Need Fitness and Wellbeing Young carers 5-18 q Jack Petchey Foundation Young carers 

## **Restricted Fund Values and Movements** 

|a Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames<br>b Achieving for Children<br>c RBK Discretionary Payments<br>d Inspiring Change YACs<br>e Carers Trust<br>f Male Carers Group<br>g The Henry Smith Charity<br>h Trust for London<br>i Big Lottery Community Fund<br>j Young Carers Conf<br>k SWL Health<br>l St George's MHT<br>m City Bridge Trust<br>n Young Carers Activities<br>o Awards for All (Youth Group)<br>p Children in Need Fitness and Wellbeing<br>q Jack Petchey Foundation<br>Other funds|Balance brought<br>Incoming<br>Transfers<br>Outgoing<br>Balance carried<br>forward<br>Resources<br>Resources<br>forward<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>£<br>(8,139)<br>179,800<br>(24,598)<br>(146,927)<br>136<br>(13,825)<br>40,000<br>6,909<br>(33,924)<br>(840)<br>40,000<br>(36,000)<br>4,000<br>2,672<br>250<br>(2,622)<br>(300)<br>0<br>14,134<br>14,013<br>(10,993)<br>(6,793)<br>10,360<br>5,206<br>10,132<br>(1,253)<br>(6,295)<br>7,790<br>14,337<br>85,290<br>(6,954)<br>(94,611)<br>(1,939)<br>8,225<br>33,336<br>(2,848)<br>(30,094)<br>8,619<br>(13,147)<br>98,776<br>(15,500)<br>(68,015)<br>2,113<br>5,000<br>1,870<br>(909)<br>5,961<br>(4,183)<br>39,045<br>(12,500)<br>(20,434)<br>1,928<br>21,218<br>(2,256)<br>(17,328)<br>1,635<br>20,778<br>57,539<br>(8,000)<br>(51,680)<br>18,637<br>(17,177)<br>7,990<br>0<br>(19,528)<br>(28,715)<br>12,079<br>9,577<br>(7,846)<br>(8,562)<br>5,248<br>(10,774)<br>9,995<br>7,397<br>(6,619)<br>(0)<br>1,428<br>5,300<br>0<br>(3,836)<br>2,892<br>24,793<br>12,514<br>(24,793)<br>(7,023)<br>5,490|
|---|---|
||41,407<br>666,644<br>(105,857)<br>(558,879)<br>43,316|



22 



## **KINGSTON CARERS' NETWORK** 

Notes to the Accounts continued 

## **13 Unrestricted Reserves Movement** 

|**Unrestricted Reserves Movement**||
|---|---|
|General Reserves<br>Designated Reserves|**At 1 April 2023**<br>**Incoming**<br>**Transfers**<br>**Outgoing**<br>**At 31 March 2024**<br>**resources**<br>**resources**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>158,334<br>121,515<br>105,857<br>(209,635)<br>176,071<br>40,361<br>-<br>(10,213)<br>30,148|
||198,695<br>121,515<br>105,857<br>(219,848)<br>206,219|



The General Reserve is utilized for the ongoing Core activities of the charity rather than the charitable activities.  In accordance with the Reserves Policy of the Charity the General Reserves are intended to meet all necessary costs in the event of the Charity being forced to be wound up. Transfers between Unrestricted and Restricted Funds represent the charge of management supervision time to each project. 

## **14** 

|**Analysis of Net Assets between Funds**<br>Unrestricted Reserves<br>Restricted Funds|**Fixed**<br>**Current**<br>**Current**<br>**Assets**<br>**Assets**<br>**Liabilities**<br>**Total**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>30,148<br>331,165<br>155,094<br>206,219<br>-<br>81,470<br>38,155<br>43,315|
|---|---|
||30,148<br>412,635<br>193,249<br>249,534|



## **15 Company limited by guarantee** 

Kingston Carers' Network was incorporated on 25 January 2013 and the assets and liabilities were transferred as of 1 April 2013 for "Nil" Consideration. 

Every member of the company undertakes to contribute such amount as may be required not exceeding £10 to the assets of the charitable company in the event of its being wound up while he or she is a member, or within one year after he or she ceases to be a member. 

23 



## **KINGSTON CARERS’ NETWORK** 

## **Minutes of the 32[nd] Annual General Meeting held at 1.00pm on Friday 6[th] October 2023 at Searchlight Community Centre, Kingston Road, New Malden KT3 3RX.** 

## **Present** Members 

Tony Woods Peter Whatnall Jo Cocup 

Bob Humphries Julia Linney Simon Post Pat Stanley Viv Rowlands Thay Thayalan Dawn Whitcombe Tony Bennett Joanne Maye 

Chair 

Treasurer Company Secretary Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee CEO Staff Member 

Rita Ferro Volunteer Ramon Selvakumaran Volunteer Georgette Bellino Carer Susanna Bellino Carer Carole Blackman Carer Driskoll Adelaide BoakyeCarer Yiadom Fatima Channa Carer Martina Howley Carer Ann Mason Carer Prabha Shetty Carer Nicola Tyler Carer 

## Invited 

Sir Ed Davey MP Mayor Diane White Aisha Wazir Anna Whitcombe Liz Grimwood Lily Bath Klaire Osuji David Still Carole Whatnall Meera Winder Steph Bader 

Guest Speaker Guest Speaker Speaker/Carer Speaker/YC Speaker/Staff Staff Member Staff Member Staff Member Staff Member Staff Member Sessional Work 

Susan Adie Volunteer Wendy Blake Volunteer Emily Forey Volunteer Caroline Tidman Volunteer Marilynne Epstein Carer Gloria Lewis Carer Brian Maskell Carer Patricia Maskell Carer Ishverlal Modi Carer Puhpa Modi Carer David Stanley Carer 

## **Apologies:** 

John Mays Sushila Abraham Thom Braun Mike Wilkinson Marilyn Fry Christine Goddard 

Vice Chair Kathryn Ingham Carer Former Trustee Ava Mintz Carer Former Trustee Howard Mintz Carer Former Trustee Margaret Walsh Carer Carer Maureen Wright Carer Carer Charles Yule Carer 

24 



## **Welcome and AGM Introduction** 

Tony Woods, Chair of Kingston Carers’ Network introduced himself and welcomed everyone to the AGM. Particular welcome was given to The Worshipful the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, Councillor Diane White. 

The Chair thanked the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames for their continued support over the last year. 

Guest speaker Rt Hon Sir Ed Davey MP will arrive at 1:30pm as he has a prior engagement and is unable to attend the entire meeting. 

The Chair introduced KCN’s new CEO Tony Bennett, who will be saying a few words later. 

The business of the AGM will be carried out towards the end of the meeting. – Housekeeping Searchlight is a shared space with several other organisations, so would everyone kindly walk around to the front of the building to use the toilets there to avoid disturbing other service users. 

## **Apologies for Absence** 

Apologies were tendered by the Trustees and KCN members listed as above. The Chair introduced Liz Grimwood, Manager of the Young Carers’ Project. 

## **The Young Carers’ Conference – Liz Grimwood, YCP Manager** 

In February 2023, YCP held their first ever Young Carers Inspiring Change Party Conference. It was attended by over 200 guests at the Safari Hotel in Chessington. Young carers were able to enjoy meeting the animals, a balloonist, a magician, and many other activities. Young carers wrote their life aspirations onto leaves, and the trees have been planted all around the borough for all to see and be inspired. It was a very successful first event, and Liz gave thanks to all the staff, volunteers, and sessional workers that worked hard to make it happen. YCP has big plans for next year’s event as it will be KCN’s 30[th] birthday. Liz read the following poem written by a young carer, who won an Xbox 360 in the poetry competition: 

_My Daddy cannot see So he can easily be stung by a bee I like to help him do small things, like stopping the bus and reading him the book Fing. Even though being blind is not fair, it makes me happy to show him that I care . (Cayden Age 5)_ 

Liz introduced Anna, a young carer. 

## **A Young Carer’s view by Anna** 

Anna is a young carer who has been with the Young Carers’ Project for around 10 years. Anna has been greatly supported over the years by YCP on many activities and through her mentor. Anna spoke about all the amazing experiences she has had with YCP, but her greatest memory is of the trip to Disneyland Paris.  Anna recently did some work experience with YCP in the office, and said she was blown away with how hard – everyone works to plan activities the staff never stop working. 

Anna gave her huge thanks to Liz and all in the Young Carers’ Project and at KCN. 

## **An Adult Carer’s Experience by Aisha Wazir** 

Before joining KCN, Aisha had walked past the office so many times, not even realising what KCN offer. She first heard about KCN at the Warm Spaces Hub at the Guildhall Kingston. Aisha was amazed at how many things KCN provided for carers. Nobody ever 

25 



thinks about what happens once their parents get old, and how much it affects you, and that you are in fact a carer. Aisha said that KCN has changed her life and given her an opportunity to take a break from caring. Aisha was grateful for all that KCN do and would love to volunteer to give something back. Aisha encouraged all carers to go to KCN for advice, support, and a cup of tea. 

## **– Report by the Chair Tony Woods** 

This item was moved forward in the agenda due to timing. 

The Chair invited everyone to read at leisure the full Chairman’s Report printed on page 10 of the Annual Report 

Last year was very focussed on recommissioning the contract with the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames, and KCN are forever grateful to them for the funding they have provided. This was enabled by a large team lead by Diane White the CEO, successfully allowing KCN to continue to operate. 

However, KCN always needs more money to enable it to fully support carers in the borough. There are over 12,000 unpaid carers in RBK, and KCN currently have over 4,000 registered with them. Over 800 of those are young carers aged between 5 and 18. Last year, over 2,500 respite opportunities were provided for young carers. Adult carers attended over 1,700 social and wellbeing events. The highlight of the year was the first Young Carers’ Party Conference, which was a huge success. 

The Chair gave thanks to all the staff who have been tremendous, and to over 80 volunteers, without whom we would not have been able to do so much. Special mention was given to the Board of Trustees, particularly Viv Rowlands for his expertise in policies and procedures. Thanks was also given to Jo Cocup for organising the AGM and annual report. 

The Chair introduced Tony Bennett, current CEO of KCN. 

## **Highlights of the Year by Chief Executive Tony Bennett** 

Tony thanked Diane White, previous CEO of KCN, who was present in her capacity as Mayor. 

Tony has been in the post for three months and has had some time to settle in and assess the organisation. KCN is in enormously good state. You can feel the care in the office when you walk into the organisation. Tony gave huge congratulations to Diane for the amazing work she has done with KCN. 

Tony has worked in both the commercial and the charity sector over the years.  Carers are very different from other types of people that need help. People become carers gradually, there is often no one event that leads to it. People do not see themselves as a carer, they just see themselves as family, and the change is massive. We need to encourage more people to reach out for support and recognise that they are carers. KCN has seen a significant increase in demand for its services. There are also more challenges out there due to the current economic situation. 

Diane contributed to the development of the Kingston Carers Strategy, which recognised a huge number of actions that are required.  The Carers Board is co-chaired by RBK and Tony Bennett as the CEO of KCN. There are five action groups looking at how we can help carers more than we currently do. KCN has been working more closely with the 

26 



hospital to identify carers, and this has led to a significant increase in referrals. This puts huge pressure on KCN as an organisation. There are challenges due to this surge in demand combined with the difficulty in getting funding for it. We have been reaching out to other organisations such as the Henry Smith Charity, but only one in twenty organisations are successful in their funding bids. 

There is great demand, it is very challenging to get funding, but KCN will continue to do all it can to support carers in the borough. 

Tony introduced Sir Ed Davey MP. 

## **– Guest Speaker Rt Hon Sir Ed Davey** 

Sir Ed Davey MP is the member of parliament for the Royal Borough of Kingston and leader of the Liberal Democrat party. 

Sir Ed thanked Tony Woods for his introduction and said that he very much looked forward to working with Tony Bennett, KCN’s new CEO. 

Sir Ed thanked KCN for doing such a fantastic job supporting thousands of carers in the – borough. He also thanked all the carers for what they do they are the reason that KCN exists. Sir Ed has been to several AGMs now, and gave special mention to last year, where Debbie Hustings gave a great talk about carers, the NHS, and Integrated Care Systems. 

Supporting carers is the right thing to do morally, but it also makes overwhelming sense financially. There is a need to compile even more evidence to further support the case. 

1. Supporting patients and their families/carers has a direct benefit in terms of better health outcomes. 

2. There is evidence that the health of carers tends to be worse that the average population. The mental health of a carer is twice as poor as the average person. 

3. Carers save the NHS a huge amount of money, through: 

- a. Fewer admissions to hospital 

- b. Fewer re-admissions 

- c. Saves money in terms of discharge – if a patient has suitable care at home, they can leave hospital more quickly. 

- d. Less spending on residential care homes. 

Spending money on carers actually saves the NHS money for the above reasons. – Carers need more support financially, with carers breaks, with training, practically, and emotionally. 

At a local level, the carers strategy has involved working with the hospitals, and is a test case for the whole country. With the Carers Clinical Liaison Partnership, carers are recognised as important people regarding the patients care, and they are involved in discharge plans right from the start. The patient’s package of care is built around the needs of the carer, not just the patient. How can we further build on that? This can be rolled out toward secondary and primary care too. If we can make this work at KCN, we can show the benefits of supporting carers across the UK. Sir Ed welcomed any feedback from KCN staff, volunteers, and carers. 

27 



Sir Ed gave huge thanks to KCN for all they do. Sir Ed has also benefitted by “poaching” Heidi from KCN for his staff, and through his daughter attending YCP events, who has a wonderful time. 

## **AGM Business** 

The Chair Tony Woods presented the business of the AGM. 

## **Minutes of the 2022 AGM** 

The minutes of the 2022 AGM were agreed as a true record. 

## **Adoption of the Annual Accounts for 2022/23** 

The annual accounts were not formally presented at this meeting. The Chair invited everyone to read the full record of the Annual Accounts in the Annual Report, and to address any questions to the Treasurer, Peter Whatnall. The Chair thanked the Finance Team and the auditors for the tremendous amount of work put into producing the annual accounts. 

Adoption of the accounts was proposed by Peter Whatnall and seconded by Bob Humphries. 

The accounts were agreed and adopted by the Board. 

## **Appointment of Independent Examiner** 

KAMP Accountants are the new Independent Examiners for the coming financial year. (Our previous accountants, Nasir Mahmoud FCA, have entered into a merger with another partnership, and will henceforth be operating under the title of KAMP Accountants.) 

Proposed by Tony Woods and seconded by Viv Rowlands. Agreed by all. 

## **Election of Directors to the Board of Trustees and Officers of the Board 2022/23** 

The following candidates, under Article 23, being the three longest serving directors of the Board were proposed for re-election as Directors: 

   - Tony Woods 

   - Bob Humphries 

- John Mays 

- Proposed by Dawn Whitcombe Seconded by Thay Thayalan 

Agreed by all. 

Pat Stanley will not be standing for re-election and has decided to step down as a director of KCN. 

Pat has been a Trustee for many years, and previously had a staff role. The Chair thanked Pat for her long service and for all her valuable input to KCN and invited her to keep in touch. 

Under Article 24 there was one new director appointed by a resolution of the Board since the last AGM – Thay Thayalan 

28 



Proposed by Jo Cocup Seconded by Joanne Maye Agreed by all. 

Officers are appointed by the Board. There have been no new appointments since the last AGM. 

## **Any Other Business** 

There was no other business. 

The chair introduced the Mayor Diane White. 

## **Closing remarks from the Worshipful the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, Councillor Diane White** 

The Mayor welcomed everyone and thanked KCN for being invited to the AGM. 

The Mayor gave thanks to all carers. Carers are not ordinary, they are amazing, special people. They are kind and patient and should be recognised and celebrated. Carers in RBK provide £336 million worth of unpaid care per year, and the system could not cope without them.  The Mayor thanked Sir Ed for raising awareness of carers across the UK. The Mayor gave thanks to Aisha and to Anna for coming today and speaking at the AGM. 

There have been two main points for the past year: 

1. The experience of the RBK tender has been a major one – but it is now over. The Health and Care Act 2022 led to the setting up of Integrated Care Systems, obliging the health sector to work collaboratively with carers. The voice of carers is now louder than ever before. Meera Winder and Joanne Maye have been working closely with Kingston Hospital, and David Still has been working with GPs in the borough. Health services have been in contact with Tony Bennett and relationships are being built across services. 

2. The All-Age Kingston Carers Strategy was launched. So much work has been going into it to ensure it is carried out. It has been designed by and for carers concerned about their own health and wellbeing and to enable them to have a life outside caring. 

The Mayor welcomed Tony Benett to KCN and to doing a wonderful, incredible job. The Mayor thanked all carers, volunteers, trustees and the KCN team. The staff and team at KCN are the absolute best in the entire world. 

The Chair thanked the Mayor, and said he was incredibly proud of her and of KCN. He also gave thanks to her and to Sir Ed Davey - KCN are very lucky to have them championing our cause. 

This brings to a close the 2023 AGM. The AGM will be followed by a light lunch. 

29 



## **Kingston Carers’ Network 418 Ewell Road Surbiton KT6 7HF** 

Contact: Enquiries 020 3031 2757 www.kingstoncarers.org.uk 

## 24 HOUR ANSWERPHONE 

Registered Charity No. 1151456 Company Limited by Guarantee No. 8376060 

30