Ib COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 05653946 CHARITY NUMBER: 1151656 FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 AE8C41GG 1810912025 COMPANIES HOUSE A20
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FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Règistered charlty name Fiscus North Limited (By Guarantee) Charlty reglslration number 1151656 Company reglstratlon number 05653946 Prlnelpal offlce and reglster•d Co-op Centre offlce Whitehouse Road Hendon Sunderfand SR2 8AH The truste•s Mr. A. McGill Mrs. L. Robson Mr. D. Watson Ms. L. R. Rutter Company secretary Mrs. J. Elliott Accountants Torgerseng Chartered Accountants East Suite, Ground Floor Avalon House St Catherlne's Court Sunderland SR5 3XJ Independent Examin•r Mrs A Henshaw FCCA Torgersens Chartered Accountants East Suite, Ground Floor Avalon House St Catherine's Court Sunderland SR5 3XJ Bankers The Co-operative Bank PIC PO Box 250 Skelmersdale WN86
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 The trustees. who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024. Admlnlstratlon detalls FISCUS North Limited is a company limited by guarantee (Company No. 05653946) first registered on 14 December 2005 and was registered as a charity (No. 1151656) on 16 April 2013. The principal address and registered office of the charltable company Is.. Co-op Centre Whilehouse Road Hendon Sunderland SR2 8AH The trustees who served th• ¢harltabl• company durlng th• y•ar wor•: Mr. A. McGill Mrs, L. Robson Mr. D. Walson Ms. L. R. Rutter Organlsatlonal Structure, Governance and Managom•nt FISCUS North Lirnited (by guarantee) is a registered charity, set up to relieve povety and advance education In the North of England. The provisions of its Memorandum and Articles of Association govern Fiscus North Lirnited (by Guarantee) has a Board of Management who are responsible for the strategic direction of policy of the charitable company. At present the committee has four members from a variety of backgrounds relevant to the work of the charitable cornpany. The Charity CEO is appointed by the Trustees to develop and manage the operations and activities of the charity. Recrultment ol Trustees The Directors of the charitable company are also trustees for the purposes of charity law and under the charitable company's articles are known as members of Ihe Board of Management. The trustees are appointed by the members of the charitable company at the annual general meeting. Trustee vacancies can only be filled by ct>opted trustees until the nexl AGM. Rlsk Analysls The trustees have 8 duty to Identify and review the risks lo whlch the charitable company Is exposed and to ensure that appropriate systems and controls are established to rniligate those risks and to provide reasonable assurance against fraud and error. To ensure all assets and services are appropriately insured. Major risks have been reviewed and procedures are in place to rnaintain quality. These procedures are perlodically reviewed. at least annually, in order to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of the charitable company.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Objects and Actlvltles The object of the charitable company, which has been accepted as a charitable object by the Charity Commissioners. is to relieve poverty by providing and promoting the provision of financial advice, information and support services to persons living and working in the North East of England {"the area of benefit") who are in condition of need. hardship or distress by reason of their social or economic circumstances and advance the education of such persons in the areas of financial management through the provision of information, advice. training and debt management assislance so they are better equipped to meet their needs and to participate more fully in society. Actlvltl•8 The charitable company meets its objectives through our activities and seniices which we provide at FISCUS Co-op Cenlre, our community base which is a 3-storey building constructed from recycled shipping containers. situated in the heart of the Hendon community, Sunderland. FISCUS also delivers a wide range of outreach Welfare Benefit & Debt Advice services along with crisis support at 16 community Foodbanks across the City of Sunderland and the West End ol Newcastle. Publlc Beneflt Statement The Trustees have had regard to the Charities Commission guidance on their legal duty on public benefit,. and are satisfied that the charltable company delivers public benefit and due regard is paid to the evidence on publlc benefit when deciding on what new prolects and activltles the charity should undertake.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Achlevements and Performance Throughout 2024. demand for all FISCUS services has continued to increase at the Co-op Centre and at all community foodbank outreach venues. The Co-op Centre remains at full capacity and was 'home' to 12 other charities and community organisations throughout the year. Our most vulnerable customers have continued to be negatively impacted by the ongoing cost-of-living (COL) crisis and the conlinued high costs of energy and basic essentials throughout 2024. The COL continues to negatively and financially impact our Charity and we are also braced for the increases in Employers National Insurance contributions that affect our sector and all businesses from April 2025. FISCUS continues to demonstrate that our in-depth local knowledge of the local communities that we Serve and our local networks enables us to play a vital role in supporting vulnerable adults, farnilies, children and young people. Whilst it is becoming ever more difficult for charities like FISCUS to fill the gaps created by increases in demand. public sector cuts ar)d the continued cost of living increases, we are still expected to do so without little or no local or central governmenl support. Community foodbanks are at crlsis point and delivering more food parcels than ever before, Last year, there were 1699 foodbank sites across the UK. FISCUS provided Advice, Food Parcels and Crisis Support from 16 foodbanks in Sunderland (10) and Newcastle (6)- 10/0 of all foodbanks in the UK. We believe we are unique in the amount of foodbanks we support with our wrap-around, inclusive 'More Than Food, advice & crisis support services. Trussell (formerly Trussell Trust) food banks issued 3.12 million (3.121,404) food parcels in the UK last year- an increase of 40/0 in the previous year. 1.14 million {1,144,096) food parcels were delivered lo families with children nationally. Pensioners are increasingly turnlng to foodbanks due lo not being able to make ends meet. Belween 2018119 and 2023124 food bank support for pensloner households has more than quadrupled - an Increase of 3450/0. The majority of customers attending FISCUS Warm Welcome Space (WWS) on an evening are of pension age and we have seen an increase in demand for support for people aged over 60. Often, pensioners and older people do not want lo seek help, especlally from food banks or benefit advice seeing such support as 'handouts'. At FISCUS we try to remove this stigma and use engagement services such as our WWS to break down barriers and act as a conduit towards increased awareness and support. The most vulnerable people and familles that FISCUS supports remain in very difficult slluatlons and have to make changes to their households and to the way they live. Many people report not being able to afford, food, clothing, bills and especially heating their homes. Income levels -both benefits and employment income are simply not high enough to keep up with the cost of living and everyday expenses. Individuals, families and children are going hungry and without the basics or essentials; many are living in uninsulated and cold homes. The cost-of-living crisis has continued and is hitting those worst off - disproportionally affecting those already on the breadline. The majority of individuals, families. children and young people we serve live in Sunderland and Newcastle's most deprived communities; these communities are some of the hardest-hit in the county and people living in them are often in dire situations and struggle to make ends meet. During the year, FISCUS expanded our Benefits Advice & Crisis Support at the Co-op Centre and across community foodbanks in Sunderland, working- as we do best, in partnership to achieve better outcom8s for the people we serve. Our charity's small team of dedicated staff are supported by community volunteers and together they have risen to the challenges and delivered a huge amount of support to those most in need over the past year. FISCUS Trustees would like to thank the team of staff and volunteers for their fantastic efforts and willingness to go the extra mile to help people who are vulnerable and facing hardship and crisis. Small charities such as FISCUS have community focus and community embeddedness. We are deeply embedded in the communities that we serve, aimlng to understand the specific challenges and issues of the communities we serve. We aim to build strong, trusting relationships with individuals and families and local residents to become a trusted source of support, advice and guidance. FISCUS is often a 'first responder, being the first point of contact for people in crisis, offering immediate and targeted assistance.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 During the past 20 years, FISCUS has become well-known for providing safe. accessible, and inclusive spaces and services for individuals, groups and Ihe wider community supporting inclusion and belonging. As a small charity, FISCUS needs to remain responsive and agile. We can often make decisions and implement changes more quickly than larger organisations. We can adapt our projects and services lo meet changing needs and circumstsnces more effeclively. ensuring resources are directed where they are needed most. As a small charily, FISCUS is more innovative, able to lead to new approaches and solutions for addressing complex challenges faced by those most vulnerable in our society and local communities. FISCUS ability to identify and focus on specific issues or communities, allows for more targeted and effective support. Although we operate wilh limited resources, this in turn requires us to be more capable and efficient in our use of our funds and resources. FISCUS is a recognised community hub not only in Hendon. but across the most disadvantaged communities in Sunderland. We support 'local' to help strengthen our local economies for example by keeping resources within the community. partnership working and recycling and redistributing pre-loved items. Last y•ar w• outllned 4 strateglc goals for 2024: l. Helplng Peopl• Through Crlsls 2. Creatlng Communlty Spaces to Connect 3. Sustalnable Re¢y¢l• & Reuse 4. Dlv•rslty, Equallty & Incluslon In our work and communltles we work wlth The table below identifies exam les of ro ress towards these oals: Pmgress Made Towards FISCUS Goals 2024 l. Helplng People Through Crisls Morn Than Food Inltlatlves In Sunderland & Newcastl• 3549 people were supported by FISCUS during 2024 via a range of Advice & Crisls Support. Of these, 1574 benefitted from Welfare Benefits. Debt & Crisis Advice provided by FISCUS. Benefits & Financial Gains identified totalled £1,504,107.52 million in benefit entitlements that People were missing out on. Of this. almost £1.2 milllon pounds (£1.180.599.44) financial gains were identified among FISCUS Sunderland Service Users and £323,508.08 among Newcastle Foodbank Service Users. This averages out at £955.60 for every person case loaded and supported with Advice. Our partnership work with Sunderland Foodbank resulted in 1951 ambient and fresh food parcels being issued by FISCUS Foodbank during the year. FISCUS Advice staff also issued 1214 food parcels being issued and fulfilled by FISCUS Advice & Crisis staff at 10 other community foodbanks during FISCUS & Sunderland Foodbank outreach sessions. Warm Welcome Space We continued our new Warm Welcome Space one evening and one day per week throughout the year with 15 - 22 people attending Ihe Monday evening sessions every week. Staff and volunteers prepared a hot meal, refreshments and social activities. They also delivered around 10 hot meals after each session to people in the local community who are struggling with the cost of living crisis. Crlsls Items and essentials distributed to people in need 2559 individuals and families received items or Bundles of crisis support including Baby & Child Essentials, Adult & Young People's Clothing, Shoes & Fooiwear, Hygiene Packs, Period Products, Ambient Food Parcels, Fresh Food Parcels. Furniture Items, Supermarket Vouchers. Christmas Presenl Bags, Tents, Sleeping Bags. Christmas DinnerslHampers. This figure would be far higher rf farnily mernbers benefitting were Counted.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 £ Value of Crlsls Items and essentlals given out in 2024 Crisis items distributed had a value of approximately £260,639. We also saved 4.7 tonnes of surplus food from going to landfill by using it as ingredients for fresh food parcels and cooking community meals for our Warm Welcome Spaces. Surplus food was provided by Fareshare and funded by Sunderland City Council Stralegic Advice Services Total debt consolidated, reduced or wrltten off £366.966.18 in personal debt has been dealt with, reduced, managed and written off among FISCUS customers. Communlty Foodbanks (Outr•ach) Vouchers Issued FISCUS issued 3165 ambient and fresh fruit and veg food parcels to individuals and families across Sunderland. This included 828 fruit, veg and mixed Fare Share bags to young teenage mams and their families and 816 at FISCUS Warm Welcome Space throughout the year. 01 the total food parcels issued by FISCUS Advice & Crisis staff. 1214 ambient food parcels were distributed at 10 other community foodbanks across the City. This was only made possible with the continued support from Sunderland Foodbank (DCP> who supply food to FISCUS Foodbank and to all other Trussell Foodbanks in Sunderland. Our fresh fruit and veg and fresh food from Fare Share has been a resull of continued support from Sunderland City Council Strategic Advice Servlces. 2. En$urlng no chlld goes wlthout essentlals to redu¢• and all•vlat• chlld pov•rty Bundles lor 8ables Baby Bank Our Bundles for Babies, Baby Bank continues to receive many tonnes of donations each year. We continue to be extremely busy with referrals into both seNices from community organisations. mid.wive3. health visitors, social workers, social prescribers. foodbanks, homelessness organisatlons. mother & baby units, supported accommodalion. hostels and organisations working with some of the most vulnerable children, young people and adults in our communities. Our Baby Bank aims to ensure no child goes without essentials to reduce and alleviate child poverty In Sunderland. £ Valu• of Chrlstmas presents glven out 650+ large bags & bundles of presents, blankets. hoodiesloodies were distributed at Christmas with a value of approximately £52,000. 229 were delivered to looked after children and young people in supported and independent living. We also supported over 120 people living in hostels and move on accommodation with Christmas gifts and provided Turkeys and Christmas lunch items for 40 people Ilvlng in Poplar House move- on accommodation to enable them to cook and share a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. Hundreds of local children and vulnerable adults received bundles of Christmas Presents and warm blankets or fleece 'oodies' We also continued to support 111 young and teenage mams throughout the year with Christmas presents and wann blankets and oodieslhoodies. Sunderland Young Mammles Home Economlcs.. . Young Parents Pmject 111 young and teenage Mams plus their babies, children and families were supported with advice drop-in's and appointments with advice ranging from Welfare Benefits, Debt Advice, Budgeting. Housing & Homelessness support. The project also provided baby essentials, hygiene essentials and period products. The project provides around 18+ weekly fresh fruit & veg bags and food parcels for those young mams most in need. Some of the young mammies attended Independent Living Skills 'Home Economics, sessions such as cooking and leaming to sew at FISCUS.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 3. Creatlng Communlty Spaces to Connect Gmwlng our Communlty Garden & Allotment Over the year, our Community Garden & Allolment has expanded and grown, The garden has been fully volunteer led throughout 2024. We have held co-production focus group meetings With volunteers. staff, service users and tenants of the Co-op Centre. We have grown beautiful flowers as well as fresh fruit and Vegetables and have been able to use vegetables and fruil for cooking lor our warm welcome spaces as well as distributing them to service users. Our community garden is a lovely space to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air and relax in the lovely surroundings. Communlty KItGh•n & Calé We have undertaken further community consultalion to generate support and ideas for a new Community Café and Kitchen. Towards this aim, in July 2025, we were successful in raising just under £44,000 capital funding of blended finance grant and social investment loan and £4,000 communily fundraising and donations to pay for the new kitchen refurbishment. The new cornmunity dell will be called My Sister's Kitchen which FISCUS has taken over once again. Spaces lor Health and Well-belng Our ground-floor community room at the Co-op Centre continues to be very well utilised as a meetlng and training space among staff, volunteers, service users and partners. Our Warm Welcome Space established in October 22 is still on-going and very well attended every week wlth the addition of a day-time session some weeks which we hope to expand again further in 2025 onwards. Our beautiful community garden space has become a popular space to connect among our volunteers. slaff, tenants and wider community. There has been a huge expansion of spaces to connect, meet, Irain and socialise at the Co-op Cenlre: a variety of sessions and sepiices are facilitated with our community partners who are co-located here. FODI and Sunderland Bangladesh International Centre have been extr8mèly busy delivering daily Classes includlng ESOL. sewing, ceramics and more! Improved COnntIVIty. ICT and Internet ¢apacity and Increas• digltal Inclusion During 2024, we invested in updating our high-speed intemet for our Co-op Centre community building. This ensured that FISCUS and the other charitable organisalions in our building could remain digitally connected whlch is vltal to all of our work. The new high-speed Internel also supports the many thousands of service users and ESOL students that attend the Co-op Centre each year - ensuring they are digitally connected. FISCUS also installed a new telecommunications system to ensure our staff, volunteers and service users can ensure access to our advice and crisis services. 4. Sustalnable Community Recycle & R•us• Bundles for Babies Baby Bank o- 24 months FISCUS Communlt Clothes Bonk Our Bundles for Babies, Baby Bank and FISCUS Community Clothes Bank continue to receive many tonnes of donations each year. W8 continue to be extremely busy with referrals into both services from community organisations, mid-wives, health visitors, social workers, social prescribers. foodbanks, homelessness organisations. mother & baby units, supported accommodation, hostels and organisations working with some of the most vulnerable children, young people and adults in our communities. Our 8aby Bank and Clothes Bank projects ensures that the most vulnerable people who we support can have appropriate warm clothing, undeNear and all other essential items they need.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES, REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 As well as supporting those most in need, our recycling projects prevented over 14.500 tonnes of wasle going to landfill this year. We prornote thrift, not wasle: 100's of people adopt habits to recycle and donate their unwanted iterns to FISCUS eve ear which hel s the environment and sustainabilit 5. Dlverse & Incluslv• Communlty Opportunltles Equallty & Dlversity among our people. s•rvlc•s and communltles We continue to evolve and develop all of our services to make them more inclusive and accessible to all. Our continued partnership work with Global Majority BAME specialist organisations is embedded within our everyday work. Friends of the Drop In (FODI) and the Sunderland BME Network are permanently based at the Co-op Cenlre. Sunderland International Bangladesh Centre and New Horizon's remained at the CO-OP Centre throughout 2024. These partner organisations and our joint working has continued to increase the footfall of BAME people accessing our building and our Seices. In the sumrner of 2024. Sunderland was very badly affected by the race rlots. Hendon was a key target area and our Co-op Centre was identified as a potential target for the rioters. We were forced to close the centre iwice during the riots to ensure everyone could stay safe. In the week following the riots FISCUS and our 8AME partners hosled a fantastic Mullicultural BBQ outdoor event in our community grounds to demonstrate support. strength and resilience in our rnulti-cultural City during these frightening times. We reviewed our Equality & Dlversity Policy in 2024. Supportlng BAME Asylum Seekers, Refugees and F•mllla$ In Overall, 220/0 of our case-loaded Sunderland customers were BAME. Thls Is a result of lolnl working, pooling resources and referrals from our community partners.. SBIC, New Horizons, FODI and ICOS and Sunderland Foodbank and via statutory and other referrals. Throughout 2024, FISCUS continu8d to work In partnershlp with other like-minded charities, charitable community organisalions, statutory agencies and specialist partners for the benefit of those mosl in need in Hendon & East End and wider Sunderland's most disadvantaged communities. We provided 14 weekly Advice & Crisis outreach drop-in sessions at 10 Sunderland Foodbank venues throughout the year. We also worked with Newcastle Foodbank and supported 6 Community Foodbanks with advice & crisis sessions in Newcastle's West End during 2024. Our continued successful strategy to welcome more community partners into the Ctrop Centre - our community buildlng, has brought both financial and community benefits. We continue to work reciprocally and co-productively with our co-located partners for the benefit of our service users and the wider community. The centre was 100Vo full to capacity throughout the year. During 2024, 12 charities and community organisations were based at Ihe Co-op Centre co-located with FISCUS which has increased and strengthened our co-working and partnership working. allowing us to reduce duplication and make our resources go further which results in strengthened community cohesion and better outcomes for our service users and the communities wlth whom we work. Funding for the work of the charity during 2024 has been steady compared to the previous 3 years or the Covid-19 pandemic and the impacts of cost-of-living crisis. We were very fortunate to secure 5-year grant funding from the Improving Lives Through Advice programm8 via The Access to Justice Foundation with funding by The National Lottery Fund. Such longer-term funding is key to our longer- term sustainability and specialist staff retention. Although we continue to generate rental income for the Co-op Centre, this slill does not cover all costs relating to the running of the building and keeping the building safe and compliant. We would benefit greatly from a new Buildings Co-ordinator but it is not possible to create this post without additional grant funding as the Co-op Centre does not generate enough to cover the c05t.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 We ended the 2024 financial year with total funds available of £443,067 which included designated reserves of £179.459 (for the Co-op Centre Building, fixtures and fittings and motor vehicles) and general unrestricted funds of £70,033. Our restricted funds were £193.575. Our current funds continue to be supported by a Bounce Back Loan of £50,000 which, whilst a long-term liability on our balance sheet, remains fully unspent in our bank account since 2022. This was a measure taken to avoid any emergencies and supported the charity's cash flow during the pandemic. The loan is well-managed and continues to support cash flow and the Charity's bank balance, We have maintained monthly payments reducing the balance and the liability to £39.202 as at the 2024 financial year end. By the end of 2024 we had secured the majority of Ihe nècessary funds for 2025 also securing a 5- year funding project funded until the end of 2028. FISCUS ACHEIVEMENTS 2024 3549 individuals and families recelve advice and support from FISCUS 1574 serwce users received Welfare Benefits Advice, Debt Advice and Crisis Support Irom FISCUS 8cross 1974 cases 2559 service users received 8 range of cnsls support items including.. Food Parcels, Baby Bundles, Adult Clothing, Children's Clothing, Fumiture, Books, Toys. Essentials fmm FISCUS across Sunderland 22% of 811 seNice users were BAME including refugees and asylum seekers in hardship 19,030 people visited the cOP Centre during 2024 (excludes FISCUS staffj 29 Volunteers supported FISCUS during 2024, including 4 trustees 3772 Volunteer hours donated are valued at £53, 708.46 (ONS £14. 24pvh) 2 Young People employed and trained as Social Welfare Apprentice Tralnees £1,504.107.52 milllon was identified In unclaimed benefits entitlements that people were missing out on £366,966. 18 Total Personal Debt managed among FISCUS SeNice Users 111 young mums aged 13 to 25 years (60 were teenagers aged 19 and under) received V8rying support from our Baby 8ank, our Children's & Adults Clothes Bank. hampers, hygiene and sanitary packs, toys, clothing, food parcels. crisis vouchers and Christmas pres8nts for Éhemselves and their babies/child 229 looked after children received Chrlstmas presents and warm fleece oodles 14,500+ tonnes of donated b8by clothing, adults & children's clothing, equipment and essentials were saved from landfill by recycling and redistribuling to children, individuals and families in need. Around 0.5 tonne of these items was donated to FISCUS to support people and families in poverty in Africa via community partners, New Horizons. Sunderland S8mba FC and AFRICA WAD. 84 Co-op, social households and their families in Hendon & sum)unding area received dedicated advice and support ranging from benefit and debt advice to hygiene and cleaning Packs and Christmas grfts for adults. children and young people who are stniggling to make ends meet. 222 people aged 60 and over accessed advice and crisis support. Many of these service users received warm packs containing Hot Water Bottles, Warm 81ankets. Gloves, Hats and other
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 essentials to help people keep warm and have more awareness of where to go to access Advice & Crisis support. 3 Beneficiary surveys were undertaken among FISCUS service users, local Co-op Social Housing residents and young mams/families and I community organisations survey was undertaken among community partners FISCUS was 'community landlord, to 12 other community and charitable third-sector organisations at the Co-op Centre during 2024 FISCUS VOLUNTEERS 2024 29 active volunteers supported FISCUS in 2024 including 4 trusteesldirectors who governed FISCUS. supporting staff and volunteer delivery across all of our services. FISCUS Board of Trustees, CEO and staff team wish to offer our sinceresl thanks to all Volunteers who supported FISCUS during 2024. Tru3teelDlreclor Volunteers 1. Andrew McGill, 2. Linda Robson, 3. Dale Watson, 4. Linda Rutter Regular Volunteers 5. Vernon Laing 6. Shirley Miller 7. Anne Ambrose 8. Bobby Ambrose 9. Jamey Storey 10. Chris Mccardle 11. Linda Richardson 12. Lauren Lowson 13. Mary Nicol 14. Jim Nicol 15. Emily Allen 16. Craig Hooper 17. Kirsty Hooper 18. Lynne Wilson 19. Lynn Guba-Holtan 20. Wendy FISCUS staff-famlly occaslonal volunteers: 21. Steve 22. Mark 23. Chris Young Volunteers 24. Amelia L. 25. Abigail B. Volunteers In the Communlty who support FISCUS Crlsls Work 26. Anne Downie 27. Sister Michael 28. Doreen 29. Shelly Humble FISCUS Community Partners, Funders & Community Investors FISCUS Trustees would like to thank our funders. partners and support organisations including.. Access to Justice Foundation. 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust, Bump to Baby {B2B), Barbour Foundation, Bethany Church Food Bank. BRAmnesty. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Citizens Advice 10-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Sunderland, City Life Community Foodbank. Community Foundation Tyne & Wear. Co-operative Local Community Fund. County Durham Community Foundation, Co-operative Housing In Partnership (CHIP), Crowdfund Sunderland Fund. Crowdfunder, Durham Christian Partnership {DCP), Customer Services Neork, Sundedand City Council, East Area Committee, Elim Church Food Bank. Fare Share. Farringdon Foodbank, FODI, Free the Way. Gentoo, Good Things Foundation. Greggs Foundation. Greggs H8rdship Funds. Greggs Shop Grangetown Unsold Food. ICOS, Integrated Care 8oard Sunderland, Morrisons Doxford Park, Jane Morrisons Doxford Park Community Champion, Lewis Crescent Mother & Baby Supported Living, My Sisters Kitchen. National Lottery Community Cost of Living Fund, Nationwide Foundation. Newcastle Building Society. New Horizons, Newcastle Foodbank. Northern Gas Nehvorks, Pallion Action Group, Peel Street Co4)perative, Peer Support Group, Poplar House. Public Health Fund, ShARP, SESF & SIB, Sherbum House Trust, Sir James Knott Trust. Sisters of Mercy St Anthony's Convent Oaklea, Oaklea Women's Groups, Social Investment Business (Sl8). Spacehive, St Martins In the Fields, Sunderland City Council, Sunderland City Council Strategic Advice Services, Sunderland Food Bank, Sunderland Guild of Help, Sunderland International Bangladesh Centre, The Joicey Trust. Veterans Breakfast Club & Lakeside Community Centre, Virgin Money Foundation, and all otherorganisalions. staff, volunleers, the general public and all individuals and small businesses thal we have worked with and that have supported FISCUS charitable work during 2024. A HUGE THANK YOU from EVERYONE at the FISCUS teaml FISCUS Ml$$lon 1$.. "Supporting people who are most In need In the community to improve thelr livellhoods and help them build positive futures" FISCUS AIMS: .To engage with individuals, families. older people, children & young people whose lives are affected by poverty, disadvantage. dlsability and difficult Ilfe experiences .Provide crisis support, welfare benefits advice, money advice, volunteering. training and social & community opportunities .To enable people to reduce their barriers 'and Improve their livellhoods FISCUS PROJECT ACTIVITIES FISCUS Is 8 registered charity and a company limited by guarantee without share capital. FISCUS was established in Hendon, in 2005 in Hendon. FISCUS is based at the Co-op Centre which the Charity has owned outright since April 2019. Whilst many of our crisis initiatives remain in Hendon, Sunderland's most deprived area, we operate City-wide across Sunderland and we also support community foodbanks in Newcastle with Financial Inclusion outreach services. During 2024, our Charity employed 9 staff. FISCUS outreaches from the Co-op Cenlre and from Community Foodbanks across the City of Sunderland and Newcastle. During 2024, we have supported 3549 people across our Advice, Crisis & Community services and activities. Of these. 1574 people accessed welfare benefits advice, debl & money advice at FISCUS and Community Foodbanks in Sunderland & N8wcastle. Crisis items and essentials were provided to 2559 people and families- a 140/0 increase from last year. Whilst FISCUS community activities and services have continued to expand over the year, FISCUS aims and objectives have remained fairly constant. FISCUS continues to deliver Advice Crisis & Communlty Services from the Co-op Centre and from Community Foodbanks across Sunderland and Newcastle providing outreach advice and crisis support to foodbank customers. Our charity continues to target those most disadvantaged and marginalised in the local community of Hendon & East End and the wider disadvantaged neighbourhoods across Sunderland and Newcaslle. 11
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 FISCUS Projects & Actlvities The following core project activities were delivered by our team of staff and volunteers: Sunderland Foodbank & Newcastle Foodbank & Saf• Project More Than Food: 20 weekly advice & crisis outreach sessions at Community Foodbanks in Sunderland (14) and Newcastle {6). People accessing Food Parcels at the Community Foodbanks are then able to access other emergency essentials from FISCUS and can be signposted into further specialist support. During 2024, Sunderland Foodbank (run by Durham Christian Partnership) funded our financial inclusion foodbank advice in Sunderland: Newcastle Foodbank funded our financial inclusion work in Newcastle- both foodbanks are supported with funding from Trussell. SAFE (Support, Advlce, Food & Essentials) Project was established as a 5-year Help Through Crisis initiative funded by the National Lottery Fund., whilst funding ended during the pandemic, SAFE ontinues to be embedded across our core work and is supported by all FISCUS staff and volunteers including.. Clothing (all ages), underwear, Baby Bank Bundles, bedding, period packs and hygiene packs, small donated household items and crisis grants for food, white goods and household furniture, gas & electric vouchers, sim cards and a number of blcycles were issued Volunteerlng Opportunltles During 2024 we were supported by 29 volunteers including 4 Volunteer Trustees. Volunteering with FISCUS can involve just a couple of hours a week but some of our regular volunteers also volunteer up to 4 days each week. Volunteering supports our small ieam to create greater cornmunily irnpacts and also provides social opportunities as well as helping FISCUS to deliver fantastic projects such as our beautiful community garden and our recycling initiatives that save many tonnes of unwanted items from going to landfill. My Slsters, Garden our community Garden & Allotment was established during the pandemic for access to outdoor community space and activities, beautiful flowers, home-grown fruit and vegetables. The vegetables and fruit are used to provide low-cost healthy meals at our Warm Welcome Space, Cookery Sessions, and fresh produce to lop up our food parcels and support our volunteers with fresh fruit and veg. Another main benefit of our lovely garden is the resulting ouldoor community space which is there for everyone to enjoy. Throughout 2024, the garden was complelely volunteer led. Bundles for Bables Baby Bank Sunderland's first Baby Bank established in 2016, supporting bables, young parents, carers and families in crisis via referrals from health & social welfare professionals. NHS Family nurses. community foodbanks. social prescribers, Tfc and community partners. Our Baby Bank supplies pre-loved and sometimes new items ranging from full 'bundles' from birth, clothing, cot, moses basket. prarn or stroller, toilelries. toys as well as essential items lor mam and for any sibllngs to ensure no child goes without. Bundles for Babies also enables families to become aware of and access, our wider advice and crisis support. Sunderland Clothes Bank is 8 recycling and reuse prolect established by FISCUS in 2019 catering for all ages from children age 2 to teenagers to adult. Situated within one of our largest community units at the Co-op Centre. our Cornmunity Clothes Bank has become very well known amongst community partners who refer for children, young people and families In need. Our Clothes Bank also provides a conduit to access vital support including welfare benefits advice. debt advice homelessness and re- housing support. Single people on Universal Credit. single people seeking asylum. older people and homeless individuals are some ofthe worst hitfinancially surviving on the lowest of incomes. The clothes bank has been co-produced wilh staff, service users and volunteers. Help for Homeless an increased number of homeless people presented or were referred into FISCUS during the year. The rise in homelessness continues to be experienced by vulnerable people ID Sunderland of all ages. Many of the homeless people supported are rough sleeping, living in hostels or sofa surfing. Homeless people also experience multiple complex issues in their lives ranging from having no money, food or clothing to addictions, lack of family support structures and struggling with rnental health issues. During the year. FISCUS supported 197 people who were experiencing the struggles that come with being homeless. 12-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Sundérland Young Mammies Home Economics is a FISCUS project that works with leenage and young mams providing welfare benefits advice, housing advice, crisis support, independent living skills. weekly Fare Share Fresh Food & Fresh Fruit & Vegetables and emergency essentials. Established to ensure that no child or young person goes hungry or without. including the young mams who are often childrenlunder 18 years dealing with multiple struggles themselves. The project also inlroduces recipes and ideas to promote healthy eating and cooking on a budgel. group training and batch cooking to save money. This year, 111 young mammies under 25 years were supported with over half of those supported being teenagers. FISCUS Communlty Foodbank provides foodbank drop-ins every week at the Co-op Centre10 SUPPOrt people who have no food or money and are in crisis. During 2024, many of our Food parcels were topped up with Greggs unsold food as well as fresh fruit and vegetables and Fare Share products that are supplied by Sunderland Council Strategic Advice Services. We have experienced Welfare Benefit & Debt Advice workers at every foodbank session to ensure that people going without money and food can access the help and advice that they need to gel back on track and to become aware of, and access. their rights and entitlements. FISCUS Warm Welcome Space Is open lo anyone to attend and provldes social opportunlties In a friendly community environment at the Co-op Centre: our Monday evening session helps people save on heating and lighl at home on the cold nlghts but also throughout the year. We have also held daytlme Warm Welcome sessions and hope to re-establish the same again in the coming months. Everyone attending our Warrn Welcome Space receives a small food parcel containing fresh fruit and veg and other items from Fare Share, funded by Sunderland Council. A hot meal is provided and extras to take away including hot take-outs for some members of the community who volunteers know are struggling. FISCUS Chrfslmas Appeal- each yearwe support children and young people. homeless people. older people and vulnerable individuals and families through our Christmas Appeal. We achieve this with a vast amount of community SUPPOrt from members of the public, regular donators to our re-use and recycling projecls and with support from staff, tenants. partners and volunteers. Over the Christmas 2024 period, we distributed 650+ presents to children & young people, homeless, vulnerable and elderly people including 229 looked after young people. Morrlsons Doxford Park continues lo provide weekly donations of baby essenlials, food and baby clothing to support our Bundles for Babies Baby Bank. We estimate that the value of these items is approximalely £100+ per week meaning the value of the support over the year has been in excess of £5200. Wlthout the support of Morrlsons Doxford Park, and thelr fantastic Communlty Champlon Jayne. we would otherwise struggle to fund such essential items as baby bottles. nappies and wipes. BRAmnesty is a volunteer-led project established by FISCUS staff and volunteers in 2016. BRAmnesty aims to maintain women and girls dignity and support their independence and enterprising activities. Initially established for women and girls in in The Gambi8, this initiative has since supported women and girls in developing countries in Africa including Kenya, The Congo and Togo supporting partners who directly deliver donated Bras, knitted baby clothing and blankets and other essentials lo these countries. At FISCUS, BRAmnesty also benefits Sunderland women and girls, babies and families and was the catalyst for the establishment of our Bundles for Babies Baby Bank in 2016. 13
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 FISCUS Advice & Crisis Support IMPACT 2024 £1,504,107.52 Benefits & Flnanclal Galn3 Identiflod £366,966.18 Personal Debt Roduced & Managod £260.639 Value of Crisls Items & Bundles Dlstrlbuted 3549 Peoplè Helped wfth Advi & Crlsls Support £7,000 of Crlsls Fundlng and Vouch8rs distributed 2146 hours of Welfaro Benefits & Debt Adv• Provldèd 2208 staff hours of Soclal Welfare & Crisis Support provlded at tho Co<ip Centre 111 T•enage and Young Mams and thelr bables, ¢hildr•n and wlder fami11os supported 20 Weekly Advlce & Crlsls Sessions at 16 Communlty Foodbanks £53,708.46 Valuo of Volunteer Hours (based on £14.24ph ONS) 29 Voluntoors Supported FISCUS Actlvlties 3772+ Volunteer Hours Donated to FISCUS q97 Homeless People supported Includlng P•opla Ilvlng In host•ls, R•fuges & temporary or supported accommodatlon 14.500 Tonnes of Baby Bank & Clothe$ Bank Crlsls Donations Saved from Landfill 3165 Emergency Amblent and Fresh Food Paruls Issued 4.7 tonn•8 of 6urplu6 food savod from landflll and 1644 Bags of Fresh Frult and Vegetables Dlstrlbut•d 12 Sunderland Charltles & Communlty Oryanisatlons bonefrtted from FISCUS communlty space 600 Hyglene & Cleaning Emergency Packs Distributed 22% of sorylce users wore BAME, Asylum Seekers, Rèfugeè8 and Mlgrnnts 84 Housing Co•OP Members and thelr famllles rgcelved support 3 Communlty & Beneficiary Surveys and 1 Community Organlsations Survey Undertakon
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Issues & Barrlers Faced by the local communltles we serv•: Sunderland Is ranked the 33rd most deprived Local Authority in England with an average IMD (2019) score of 29.725. According to research commissioned by the Local Trust in 2019, Sunderland has 8 of the 225 '1eft behind. areas in England including.. Hendon (where FISCUS and the Co-op Centre is based). Castle, Hetton, Redhill, Sandhill, Southwick. St Anne's and Washington North. Sheffield Hallam University's research (2022) on the real rate of unemployment, Sunderland's rate was 36th highest of all local authorities with an estimated rate of 9°; this is based on 8,810 unemployment benefit claimants and 6,800 hidden on disabilitylincapacity benefits. 58.5Q/o of homes in Sunderland are in deprivation {ONS Census 2021). Child poverty in the North East is now the highest in the whole of England and Sunderland has a child poverty rate of 390/0 with more than 1 in 3 children living Sn povety. Hendon ranks 1% IMD 2019: Hendon & East End has risen to 11.458 residents and 5,413 households. Government statistics identify: 'Hendon is the Super Output Area (SOA) with the highest levels of child poverty in Sunderland {45°/0), 48.5 /0 of households in Hendon are deprived households. Hendon residents have a personal income less than £15k' "450/0 of the population have no qualification: .25.3 /• of people have a limiting long-term illness or disability: '42.8°/o of older people live alone and 46.70/0 also live in deprivation; 'Almost half of all residents live in means-tesled, benefit-dependent households The number of people and families living in luel poverty is increasing to record levels with people having to make the choice befvrfeen healing and eating. The unemployed rale in Hendon is 11.6°/o compared to Sunderland at 5 /•. The proportion of young people aged 16-24 is 17.4 /• for Hendon Compared to a city rate of 10.20/0. Child povety in Hendon is rising at 450/o- the highest in the City (End Child Poverty Coalltion). The percentage of population whose ethnic group is not 'white' is 11.40/0 for Hendon compared wlth Sunderland at 4.10/0. The latest unconfirmed statistics for Sunderland's BAME population has increased to approximately 40.000 people. BAME service users currently make up 220/0 of all FISCUS service users, mainly refugees, asylum seekers and foreign students and their famili8s. A recent revlew into Black and minority ethnic Inequalities in Healthcare by the NHS Race and Heallh Observatory, published in February 2022, highlighted ongoing Black and minority ethnic inequalities across several areas offocus including mental health care, maternal and neonatal health care, and the NHS workforce. NHS Digital data for the number of people detained under the Mental Health Act (MHA) in 2020121 Idenlified that rales of detention for people from the BAME backgrounds were over 4 times people from white backgrounds. The Community Foodbanks and Sunderland Foodbank are busier than ever with increasing referrals to FISCUS Advlce & Crisis Workers who are outreaching at the Food Banks daily. A local study of Hendon Ward ('Local Health, Public Health England. 2020) identified that 42.8°/o of older people in the area live alone 13.2 /0 of people are living in overcrowded housing. Long-term unemployment in Hendon Ward is more than double the rate for Sunderland (18.1YD compared to 8.7•) and almost 6 times higher than England's long-term unemployment rate of 3.2Q/o. Prevalence of children who are overweight in Hendon Is reported as 30.3•/0 (Sunderland 24°/., England 22.6°/o>, whilst prevalence of obesity amongst children is 29.3 /0 in Hendon. The conception rate for under 18's in Sunderland was 26.4 per 1000 girls aged 15- 17 years - more than double England rate of 13.1. The percentage of births to mothers aged under 18 in Sunderland was 1.7Q/o - far higher than 0.6 % in England. FISCUS has worked with and supported 111 young teenage and young mothers and Ihelr children this year alone. A high majority of the teen mothers and expectant teen mothers are referred to FISCUS from the NHS Family Nurses, Social Workers/PA's and from slatutory agencies. Life expectancy at birth for Males born in Hendon is 69.7 years compared to 77.1 years in Sunderland and 79.7 years in England {ONS, 2020). In the area where FISCUS is based, Sunderland Central, 7046 food parcels were distributed and of these, 2297 were for children beeen 1$1 April 2024 - 3st March 2025. Nationally. Trussell Trust Food banks in the food charity neOrk issued 2.9 million emergency food parcels between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025- one parcel every 11 seconds. Just over one million of these food parcels were for children. People in poor health are more at risk of needing support and are tuming to foodbanks for help. As well as the problems with the benefit system that Ihey experience, people on benefits especially disabled people, often face extra costs. including higher housing, 15-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT {INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 heating, utilities and even transport costs. which can put them at Increased rlsk of needlng to use a food bank. Much of the housing stock in Hendon is let prlvately and is old Victorian and Edwardlan property that lacks decent insulation or repair. Left Behind: Understanding Communities on the Edge IOCSIILocal Trust Report 2019) identified 225 'Left Behind, wards in England; Hendon was one of 8 wards identified as being 'left behind, in Sunderland. Such research suggests that places to meet, connectivity - both physical and digital - and an active, engaged community are vital to secure better social and economic outcomes for people living in deprived neighbourhoods. People in places which lack these features have higher rates of unemployment and child poverty, and their health is also worse than those living in other eprived areas. And the evidence is that they are falling further behind. The research argues thai this adds up to these areas being some of Ihe most left behind in the country. Despite such statistics. our local community of Hendon has a determined community spirit and an increasing number of people volunteering in their communities. Such willingness of local people. volunteers and community organisations helping and supporting others continues to be a really positive and outstanding aspect of Hendon & East End and the wider communities of Sunderland. Flnanclal Revlew Despite spiralllng costs and the impacts of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis 2024. FISCUS maintained an upturn in our small charity's financial stability and growth. Our funding stralegy developed for 2024- 25 enabled FISCUS lo continue and expand our advice, crisis support and social inclusion work, supporting over 3500 people. Tudor Trust provlded the final payment of a 3-year grant which has been stabilising anchor along with another unrestricted large grant from a charitable foundation. As community landlord. we continue to successfully encourage other cornmunity partners to work alongside FISCUS at the Co-op Centre. Such organisations benefit from low-cost rents and vibrant community space. that in turn helps us to sustain and fund the co.op Centre - although costs have continued to greatly increase during 2024. The net movernent in funds was £114,726 at the end of 2024. We have continued to maintain a tight reln on spending and we ended the financial year in a good, stable financial position. FISCUS commenced 2025 financial year with lotal funds available of £443,067 which includes designated reserves of £179,459 (relating to capitallfixed assets of the Co-op Centre premises. fixtures & fittings and our community van) and general unrestricted reserve funds of £70.033. Our restricted funds of £193,575 are further supported by a government backed Covid-19 Bounce Back Loan (originally £50.000) which remains unspent and supports cash flow, the Charity's bank balance and provldes ongoing Stability for good ¢ash tlow. Durlng 2024 we continued to expand our core work, our advice and crisis provision. In May 2024 we were able to ernploy an additional Advice & Crlsls Worker to outreach across 10 Sunderland Foodbanks. We are currently evaluating and evidencing the breadth and positive impact of our work to support vulnerable people through our participation in and funding by Improving Lives Through Advice (ILTA) programme, via the Access to Justice Foundation. ILTA funding also enabled us to employ an Advlce Services Manager for the next 4 years. Good governance and management. quality Staff and volunteers and identification of longer-term funding opportunities aligned to our aims and objectives and to our existing and new ways of working, remain the key to the resilience and financial stability of the charity. Advice & Crisis work remains our priority. During 2024 we undertook surveys. community meetings and listened to our service users, our volunteers, staff and partners to identify needs and priorities. FISCUS ended 2024 financial year with£249,492 unrestricted reserves of the charity and 8 further £193,575 is restricted funds to be spent in a¢¢ordance with our funding agreements. During 2024, the charity received a total income of£470,150 and the charity's revenue expended was£355.424.The balance carried forward as at December 31st2024, was£443,067 of 16-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 which £179,459 related to the Co-op Centre building, fixtures & fittings, molor vehicles, and general reserwes of £70.033. The main sources of funding for FISCUS during 2024 included: The TudorTrust, Sunderland Foodbank {DCP), Newcastle Foodbank, Virgin Money Foundation, The National Lottery Cost of Living Fund, local foundation and Improving Lives Through Advice. We would also like to mention the continued vital support that we received and Sunderland Council Household Support Fund and the valuable range of smaller charitable grants and personal crisis donations from supporters, staff, volunteers and individual members of the public. We aim to continue to develop our physical environmenl and community spaces to connect at the C op Centre. Many new and emerging ideas and opportunities present themselves for the years ahead. We will endeavour to raise the necessary grant income as well as exploring social investment and the generating of further trading income to secure our Charity. our premises and our crisis ser+/ices for the future years to come. R•s•rvès Pollcy The purpose of the Operating Reserves Policy is to ensure the achievement and stability of the mission. aims, objectives and activlties of FISCUS (The Charitable Company), The Operating Reserve is intended to provide an internal source of funds for situations such as a sudden increase in expenses, one-time unbudgeted expenses, unanticipated loss in funding, or uninsured losses. The Trustees aim to hold unrestricted reserves of a minimum £40,000 (reviewed annually) to maintain the financial stability and cash flow of the Charity ensuring financlal resilience in case of unforeseen emergencies or in case of the need to cash flow short-term deficits where funding is paid in arrears or delayed,. and to ensure Ihe conlinued running of the charity where core or essential funding is lost. Restricted balances are held for the purposes of specific projectslactivities at the year end and do not form part of the reserves policy other than to spend thè funding in accordance with the funders requirements and restrictions. The Reserve may also be used for one-time. nonrecurring 8xpenses that will build long-term capacity, such as staff development, research and development. or investment in infrastructure. Operating Resen4es are not intended to replace a permanent loss of funds or eliminate an ongoing budget gap. 11 Is Ihe intention of The Charitable Company that any Operating R8serv8s to be used are replenished within a reasonably short period of time. The Operating Reserve Policy will be implemented in line with the Memorandums and Articles of Association and Financial Management & Procedures Policy. FISCUS unrestricted cash reserves (as at 31112124) = £70.033. Plans for 2025- the year ahead: FISCUS has delivered advice and crisis support for almost 20 years since 2005 in Hendon and across the Crty of Sunderland. For the year ahead we aim to continue to strengthen and widen our advic8 and crisis services by.. DIVERSIVIFYING INCOME OPPORTUNITIES - by diversifying our scope and securing longer-term core and project revenue streams. By exploring other financial models including social investment and blended finance EXPAND OUR PARTNERSHIP WORKING.. we aim to continue our successful partnership work community food banks in Sunderland and Newcaslle. We work closely with 16 community foodbanks where we oulreach to ensure services are accessible, appropriale and as safe as possible for staff, volunteers and service users. We continue to explore new partnerships and opportunities. 17-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 FOCUS ON STAFF & VOLUNTEERS HEALTH & WELLBEING - the importance of good physical and mental well-being remains a priority for our staff, for our volunteers and for our service users alike. Our strateglc goals for the Charity hav• b•en revlewed by our Board of Trustees: 1. Help Individuals & families thmugh hardship and crisis to allevlate poverty 2. Reduce and alleviate child poverty and ensure no child goes without the basics 3. Create and develop further community spaces for well-being and space to connect 4. Develop and incre8S8 our sustain8ble recycle and reuse projects 5, Fosler diversity. equality and inclusion across our work and our communities We will achieve the above goals by continuing to further develop all areas of our advice and crisis work. our recycle and reuse projects and our support for teen and young parents. We will ensure we promote equality, diversity and inclusion and access to opportunities among our Siaff. volunteers, service users, partners and the wider community at all times. Stafflng 1. Increase our Advlce & Crlsls stafflng. resour¢•s and reach 'Home grow. speclallst staff and volunteers to support our development 3. Support staff & volunteers to ensure good well-belng •nd a good work-llfe balanc• Fundlng for 2025 1. Update our Fundlng Strategy 2. Explore blended fundlng opportunl¢les Includlng $ocl•l Inv•stm•nt 3. Identlfy funds to develop our soclal Incluslon. welfare & communlty support 4. Secur• long•r-temi funds supportlng stablllty of our charity and staff r•sourc•s Expand FISCUS Scope & S•rvlc•s 1. Develop addltlonal support, volunteer, advocacy. adv1¢•. employablllty SUPPOrt and s•rvlces for vulnerable women and glrls affected by domestlc abus•, dom•stle vlolenc•, flnanclal abuse and trafflcklng 2. Develop targeted sen•lces for older people to ensure that they are aware ol th•lr rlghts and entitlements, ensure they can maxlml$e thalr in¢om•, f••1 supported and reduce loneliness and Isolatlon 3. Develop Fuel Poverty Advlce & Support,. d•llvor En•rgy Savlng Advlc•,' ensure adults and chlldr•n experlenclng fuel poverty are supported to have access to the essentlals FISCUS Co-op Centre l. Increase and expand our communlty and communal spaces for FISCUS and our community Partners to support those most vulnerable and the wlder communlty 2. Improve the eonnectlvlty and ICT and Internet capaclty and Increase dlgltal Incluslon 3. Identity fundlng to undertake repalrs Internally and externally 4. Complete communlty consultatlon and develop a new communlty café and kltchen 18-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) THE TRUSTEES. REPORT (INCORPORATING THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT) (CONTINUED) YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Responslbllltles of the trustees The Irustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Company law requires th8 trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the trustees have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Stsndards and applicable law). Under company law the trustees must not approve the flnancial statements unless they are satlsfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the incoming and outgoing resources oflhe charitable company forthat period. In preparing those financial statements, the Irustees are required lo: select sultable a¢¢ounting policies and then apply them consistently,, make Judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent,. and prepare the financial statemènts on the going concern basis unless It Is inappropriate to pr8sume that the charltable cornpany will continue its activities. The trustees are responslble for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charitable company's transactions and 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 assels of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and deteclion of fraud and other irregularities. Signed by order of the board.. Mr. A. McGill Chair and Trustee Date: 1910glzots 19-
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Fiscus North Limited (by guaranlee) ('the charity,) for the year ended 31 December 2024. Responsibilitles and basls of report As the truslees of the company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of th8 Companies Acl 2006 ('the 2006 Act.). Havlng satlsfled myself that the accounts of the company are nol requlrad to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent exarnination, I report in respect of my examination of the 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 Acl. Independent examlner's statement I have compl8t8d my examlnatlon. l confirrn that no matters have come to my attention In connection with the examination giving me cause to believe.. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 386 of the 2006 Acl., or the financial statements do not accord with those records., or the financial statements do not comply wlth Ihe accountlng requirements of soction 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fairf vlew which Ss not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. or the flnanclal statements have not been prepared In accordance wilh the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. A. Henshaw FCCA Torgersens Charted Accountants East Suite, Ground Floor Avalon House St Catherine's Court Sunderland SR5 3XJ Date: i</o7125 -20-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) UNAUDITED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Unrèstrlcted Restricted Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Note Incom• Resources Donations and legacies Charitable activities Other trading activities Investment Income 2.502 47,992 18,005 327,097 20,507 375,089 16.808 202.634 125 53.934 74,554 74,554 Total Incomlng Resourcés 125,048 345.102 470.150 273.501 Resources Expended Charitable activities Other expendlture Total Resources Expended 76,221 3,558 275,645 351,866 3,558 280,893 3,468 79,779 275,645 355,424 284,361 Not Incomlnglloutgolng) Resources Transfer between Funds 45,269 15,738) 39,531 69,457 5,738 114,726 (10,860) Net Movement In Funds 75,195 114,726 (10,860) Total Funds Brought Forward Total Funds Carrled Forward 209,961 118,380 328,341 339.201 328,341 249,492 193,575 443,067 The slaternent of financial activlties includes all gains and losses recognised In the year. All income and activits'es derive from continuing activities. The notes on pages 23 to 36 form part of these financlal statements. .21
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 Note 2024 2023 Flxed Assets Tangible Assets Investments 12 13 64,373 115,086 63,639 115,086 179,459 178,725 Current Assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 14 4.068 307,706 311,774 55,833 152.935 208.768 Credltors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year Net Current Assets 15 (14,682) (19,967) 188,801 297,092 Total assets less current Ilabllltlos 476,551 367,526 Credftors: amounts falllng due after more than one year 16 (33,484) (39,185) Net Assets 443,067 328,341 Funds of th• Charlty Restricted funds Unrestricted funds 19 193,575 249.492 118.380 209,961 Total Funds 443,067 328,341 For the year ending 31 December 2024 the charitable company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. Trustees responsibilities: The members have not required the charity to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476; and The trustees acknowledge thelr responsSblllties for complying wlth the requlrements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Charities SORP {FR These unaudited financial statements were approved by the trustees on signed on their behalf by: 102). and are Mr. A McGill Trustee Company number 05653946 The notes on pages 23 to 36 forni part of th•s• flnanclal statoments.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 General information The charity is a private company limited by guarantee. registered in England and Wales, and a registered charity in England and Wales. The address of the re9lStered office is Co<Jp Centre. Whitehouse Road. Hendon, Sunderland, SR2 8AH. Statement of compllanc• These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102. The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland,, the 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) (Charities SORP (FRS 102)) and the Charities Act 2011. A¢countlng Pollcles Basls ol preparatlon The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing accounts in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard applicable in th6 UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charlties SORP {FRS102)). Ihe Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS102) and the Companies Act 2006 as applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime. Fiscus North Lirniled Meets the definilion of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assels and liabilities are initially recognised al the hlslorical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity, Monetary amounts in these financial slatemenls are rounded to the nearest £. Golng concem There are no material uncertaintles about the charity's ability to continue. Fund accountlng Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees to furth8r any ol the charity's purposes. Deslgnated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for partlcular future project or commitment. Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure declared by the donor or through the terms of an appeal and fall into one of two sub-classes: restricted income funds or endowment funds. -23-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Accountlng Pollcles (contlnued) Incoming rèsources Income is recognised when the charitable company is entitled to the funds. any perfomance conditions attached to th8 Items of income have been met, it is probable that that the income will be received, and the arnount can be measured rellably. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income: Income from contracts for the supply of seriices is recognised with the delivery of the contracted service. This is classified as unrestricted funds unless there is a contractual requlrement for it to be spent on a particular purpose and returned if unspent, in which case it may be regarded as restricted. Grant income from government and other entities is recognlsed when the charitable company is entitled to the funds, any performance conditions attached to the grants have been mel, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount is not deferred under the accruals basis. Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured wlth rellability by the charity, this is normally upon notification of interest paid or payable by the bank. R•sources expendèd All expenditure is accounted for on an accrual's basls, Grants are chargad In Ihe year the trustees authorised payment. Grants payable are in line with charitable company's objects and activities. Granls and donations are made only lo other organlsations with similar objects or directly to beneficiaries. Operatlng leases Lease payments are recognised as an expense over the lèase tèmi on a straight-llne basls. The aggregate benefit of lease incentlves Is recognlsed as a reduced to expense over the lease term, on a straight-line basis. Lease income is recognised in profit or loss on a slraight-line basis over the lease term. The aggregate cost of lease incenlives is recognised as a reduction lo income over the lease term on a straight-line basis. Costs, including depreciation, incurred in earning the lease income are recognised as an expense. Any initial direct costs incurred in negotiating and arranging the operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the lease and recognised as an expense over the lease term on tha same basis as the lease income. Tanglble flxed assets All assets are capitalised and valued at historic cost. Depreciation has not been charged on property as Ihe anticipated residual value of the land is anticipaled to be at least equal to the cost of the mixed use element. Depreciation is charged on fixtures and flttlngs over their expected useful lives of 10 years. Depreciation is charged on motor vehicles over their expected useful lives of 5 years. Investments Investments are the purchase of an investment property. The property has been initially measured at cost and subsequently at fair value at Ihe balance sheet date. -24-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Accountlng Pollcles (contlnued) Financlal Instruments A financial asset or a financial liability is recognised only when the charity becomes a party to the contractual provislons of the instrument. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the amount receivable or payable including any related transaction costs. Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash orother consideration expected to be paid or received and not discounted. Defined contribution plans The company operates a defined contribution pension scheme covering rts employees. The scheme funds are administered by truslees and the assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company. The pension costs charged against profits represents the amount of the contributions payable to the scheme in respect of the accounting period. Donatlons and Legacles Unrestrleted Restrlct•d Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Other 2,502 18,005 20,507 16,808 2,502 18.005 20,507 16,808 In the previous year, donations and legacies of £39 were unrestricted and £16.769 were restrScted. Charltable Actlvltles & Servlc¢$ Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Grants l Fees: TNL COL Fund Sunderland CC Household Support Fund The Joicey Trust COL Household Support Sunderland cc CDCF Grant- received Advice in Warm Spaces Sunderland Guild of Help Virgin Money Foundation Sunderland CC Food and Care package Co-op Local Community Fund Tudor Trust The Barbour Foundation Sir James Knott Trust Reach Fund Sl8 The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust Newcastle Foodbank DCP- Sunderland Foodbank - Fees Access to Justice ILTA Undisclosed donor 2,992 29,946 32,938 18,681 5.000 8.500 8.500 1,200 4.000 1,947 7,500 390 390 14.935 3,750 1,524 50,000 3,750 1,524 50.000 5,000 10,000 13,000 3,000 16,462 67,085 123.440 40.000 50,000 s,000 10,000 13,000 3,000 16,462 67,085 123,440 39,721 40,000 40.000 16,650 -25-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Newcastle Building Society 3,000 47,992 327,097 375,089 202.634 In the previous year, income of £44.778 was unrestricted and £157.856 was restricted, Other tradlng actlvitles Unrestrlcted R•strlcted Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Other income 125 In the previous year. income of £nil was unrestricted and £125 was restricted. Investmenl Income Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Rental Income 74,554 74,554 53,934 All income in the previous year was unrestricted. -26-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Charltable Actlvltles Unrestrlcled Restricted Funds Funds Total 2024 Total 2023 Project costs Wages and Salaries Rates Insurance Repairs and Maintenance Light and Heat Motor expenses, travel and subsistence Telephone, postage and stationery Equipment and computer costs Staff training Sundry and cleaning expenses Subscriptions 8ank charges Loan Interest Legal and professional Depreciation charges 4,581 15,335 3,103 4,030 16.406 9,740 26,45S 221.537 96 31,036 236.872 3,199 4,030 21.058 13,990 13.442 183.593 3,095 3.518 32,245 10,472 2,927 4.652 4,250 1,481 8,627 1,550 2,070 1,847 1.511 1,330 618 3,279 3.551 10,474 3,061 1.330 897 5,020 485 1,058 9.015 6,790 10,745 2,051 1,075 1,216 3,377 521 1,193 5,386 6,037 279 1,741 485 1,058 1,015 6,790 8,000 76,221 275.645 351.866 280,893 In the prevlous year, expenditure of £97,920 was unrestrlcted and £182,973 was restrlcted. Other Exp•ndltur• Unrestrlcted Restrlcted Funds Fund8 Total 2024 Total 2023 Accountancy and Independent exam fees 3,558 3,558 3,468 All expendlture in the previous year was unrestricted. -27.
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 10. Wages & Salarles 2024 2023 Gross wages and salaries Employers national insurance cost Pension costs 219,281 13,537 4,054 171.867 9.866 1.860 236,872 183,593 The trustees receSved no rernuneration in the current or preceding year - unrestricted expenditure in the current year amounted to £15,335 (2023: £20,892) and restricted expenditure to £221.537 {2023: £162,701). Tha average numbér of full tlme equivalènt employees in the year 2024 2023 Charitable activities 11. Taxatlon The charitable company is exempt from taxation under Section 466 of the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 2010. 12. Tanglble Asset5 FSxture8 and fittings Motor Vehicles Property Total Cost At 1 January 2024 Additions 37.501 22,127 7,524 19,156 78,784 7,524 86.308 At 31 December 2024 37,501 29,651 19,156 Deprnclatlon At 1 January 2024 Charge for the year Disposals At 31 Decemb•r 2024 7.483 2,959 7,662 3,831 15,145 6,790 10,442 11,493 21.935 Carrylng amount At 31 DeGember 2024 37,501 19.209 7,663 64.373 At 31 December 2023 37,501 14.644 11,494 63,639 .28-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 13. Investments 2024 2023 At 1 January 2024 Addilions to investments at cost Gainl(loss) on revaluation At 31 December 2024 115,086 115,086 115,086 115,086 Investments at cost comprlsed 2024 2023 Investment Properties 115,086 115,086 14. Oebtors 2024 2023 Accrued incorne Prepayments 545 3,523 4,068 53,216 2,617 55,833 15. Crediiors: amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2024 2023 Bank loan Other creditors Deferred income Accruals 5.718 818 1,715 6,431 5.577 367 8,780 5,243 14,682 19.967 16. Credltors: amounts falllng due after mor• than one y•ar 2024 2023 Bank loan 33,484 33,484 39,185 39,185 17. Related Party Transact5ons There were no related party transactions during the current and preceding years. .29-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 18. Analysls of net assets between funds Restrlcttd Reserves General Deslgnated 2024 Reserves Reserves Total Funds Tangible assets Investments Current assets Current liabilities Long term liabilities 64,373 115.086 64,373 115.086 311.774 (14,682) (33,484) 443,067 194.394 1819 117.381 (13,864> (33,484) 193,575 70,033 179,459 Restrlcted Reserves General Deslgnated 2023 Reserves Reserves Total Funds Tangible assets Investments Current assets Current liabilities Long term liabilities 63,639 115.086 63.639 115,086 208,768 (19,967) (39,185> 328.341 118.747 (3671 90,021 (19,600) (39.185) 31,236 118,380 178,725 .30-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDEO 31 DECEMBER 2024 19. Fund• ol th• Charlty Bal•ne• 01.01.24 Galnl Blin¢• (Lou) 31.12.24 In¢om• Exp•ndltur• Tr•n•f•r• Unr•$trlct•d lund Genèrèl lund$ Aecumulated surplu8 Designated funds Tangib18 8$set reserya Investment propèrty r•sarv• Tol81 unr8strlcl¢d lund5 31,236 125.048 172,9891 113.2821 70,033 63,639 115,086 16,T•OI 7,524 84,373 113,086 209,961 125,048 179,7791 IS.7381 249.492 B•l•n¢è 01.01.23 G•lnl Bal•n¢• ILo••l 31.12.23 In¢om• exp•ndltur• Tr•n•f•r• Unr••lrlcl•d fund8 GeneTa1 funds Accurnulal8d surplu$ Dèslgn8ted funds Tanglblè assel reserve Investmenl prop8rty rèseN• Total unrèslried funds 29.390 98,751 195,3511 11.5541 31,236 68,126 115.086 10,0371 1.550 63,639 115.086 212,602 98,751 1101.3881 141 209,961 The accumulated lurplus Is ovailabK• for the Charable company lo use for th6 purposes ol Ihe Charble company wrthout Mlriction. 31
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 19. Funds of the Charity <conlinued) Balance 01.01.24 Balanc• 31.12.24 Income Expendlture Transfers Re$trict•d funds Fundraiser (Food van) DIDYMUS DCP - Sunderiand Foodbank Crisis Donations Tudor Trust Co-op Local Comrnunlty Fund Newcastle Food bank Xmas Appeal Virgin Money Foundation Nationwide Community Grants The Joicey Trust COL Household Support Sunderland CC Newcastle Bulldlng Soclety Fundraiser #2 Sunderland CC Household Support Fund Sir James Knott TNL COL Fund Sunderland CC Food & Care package SIB Reach Fund Grant Access to Justice ILTA HSF5 Household Support Fund Crowdfunder #1 Our Children's Kitchen The 291h May 1961 Charitable Trust Sunderland Guild of Help 475 28 10,665 1,584 30.845 (475) (28) (48,407) 11,006) (50,814) 67,085 I,S07 50,000 29,343 2.085 30,031 1,524 16,462 1,430 (1,523) (16,707) (2,113) (14,176) 245 1,538 11,190 855 2,986 39,197 675 (28,182) (675) 11,015 3.681 1,626 11,631 (3,147) (1,626) (8,437) 534 3,194 5,000 3,500 10,000 29.946 18,500) (2,237) <32,594) 7,763 2,648 3,750 13.000 123,440 13,750 (13,105) (32,753 105 90,687 5.000 <5.000) 15,068 15,068 3,000 390 3,000 (390) Total restricted funds 118,380 345.102 (275.645) 5,738 193,575 -32-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 19. Funds of the Charlty {conllnued) Balance 01.01.23 Balance 31.12.23 Incom• Expenditure Transfers Restricted funds Bundles for babies Fundraiser (Food van) Tolent DIDYMUS Greggs Foundation DCP - Sunderland Foodbank Crisis Donations Postcode Local Trust Tudor Trust SESF Community Fund Co-op Local Community Fund Enhanced Winter Offer Newcastle Food bank Xrnas Appeal Virgin Money Foundation Nationwide Community Grants The Joicey Trust COL Household Support Sunderland CC Newcastle Building Society Fundraiser #2 Sunderland CC Household Support Fund Total restrlcted funds 134 1,437 619 1.697 8,392 (141) (962) (619) <1,669) {8,392) (29.335) (1,467) 475 28 40,000 2,349 10,665 1,584 702 28,749 14,932 50,000 147.904) {14,932) 30,845 358 2,587 749 1,347 14,935 (358) (2,587) {39,568) (2,877) {18.680) 39,064 3.068 14,935 245 1,538 11,190 49,958 <10.761) (525) 39,197 675 1,200 4,000 3,000 12,134 (319) (1.374) (503) 3,681 1,626 11,631 5.000 5,000 118,380 126.599 174,750 (182,973) -33-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 19. Funds of the Charfty (contlnued) Bundles for Babies is Sunderland's first Baby Bank. established by FISCUS in 2016, providing clothing, equipment and essentials for babies and children in poverty to ensure no child goes without. Fundralser #1 Spacehlve was a Crowd Fundraiser which successfully raised funds to purchase an electric van and support our crisis and advice work at FISCUS. Tolent is a conslruction company who chose FISCUS as a beneficiary of their social value causes which enables grants to be made to charitable causes and we were generously donated £1500 towards our clothes bank and crisis work from this local company, Dldymus provided funds to support 'My Sisterfs Garden, Project. our new. safe outdoor social gardening allotmenl and vibrant social outdoor community space where people can grow their skills, make new friend8 and grow and cook food together. Greggs Foundatlon provided grant core funding to support our Finance Officers, post for one year in addition to providing additional much needed funds towards our increasing electricity costs at the Co-op Centre. Durham Chrlstlan Partnershlp (DCP) run Sunderland Foodbank and have partnered with FISCUS to deliver 'More Than Food. support to people who use and rely on foodbanks in Sunderland. DCP provides grant funding from the Trussell Trust to which it is affiliated. The funding enables FISCUS to employ experienced Welfare Benefit & Crisis Advice staff who work across Community Foodbanks in Sunderland to ensure people can resolve their financial hardship and access their rightful benefits entitlements. reduce their debt and have access to food and other crisis items. Crfsls Donatlons are generously provided by the general public and occasionally. by organisations and small businesses. The Sister's of Mercy, Oaklea Convent and the women's groups that they facilitate have been very generous donator5 to our crisis funds once again, throughout Ihe year. This makes a huge difference to our customers facing hardship and poverty as we are able to fund ilems that are not usually donaled such as shopping vouchers, new clothing & underwear. safety equipment, warm blankets, hot water bottles and presents for children and older people who would otherwise go without throughout the year and at Christmas. Postcode Local Trust funded a co-produced, accessible, community garden space and various outdoor well-being activities for women survivors of domestic abuse struggling with mentsl health issues. It also enabled us to employ a qualified Social Welfare Community Worker, fund garden lools and plants. 34-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 19. Funds of the Charlty Icontinued) Tudor Trust provided a grant over three years to support the salary of FISCUS CEO to enable FISCUS to have more financial stability and enable the CEO to focus on developing and delivering the core advice and crisis work and develop new initialives, SESF was a social investment grant award made by Social Investment Business and supported by 8ig Issue Invest to support the sustainability and development of our charity. COWOP Local Communlty Fund supported our community garden providing a safe space for our service users, staff. volunteers and wider community to meet and enjoy the outdoor space. Enhanced Wlnter Offer funds were provided by Sunderland City Council to support our crisis work and to enable us to purchase essentials such as clothing. toiletries and cleaning items to provide to people experiencing hardship in Sunderland. Newcastle Foodbank provide grant funding to FISCUS from Trussell Trusi to enable FISCUS to employ a full-time experienced Advice & Crisis Worker who provides outreach advice and crisis support across Community foodbanks in Newcastle. Xma8 Appeal is money provided by individuals. organisations and buslnesses to support the purchase of Christmas presents for children. young people and those who would otherwise go without during the festive period. Vlrgln Money Foundatlon provided a two-year grant to fund an experienced Social Welfare Worker to enable FISCUS to maintain, improve and expand our current crisls services, especlally our expanding Sunderland Clothes Bank. Natlonwlde Communlly Grants provided 8 one-year 9rant to enable us to develop Sunderland Young Marnmies Home Economics Project by employing a new dedicated Advice & Advocacy Worker to support teenage expectant and new moth8rs in Sunderland to galn independent living skills and access to advice and support. The Jolcey Trust provided funding towards the employment of a Social Welfare TraineelApprentice. COL Household Support Funds were provided by Sunderland Clty Council to support our crisis work and to enable us to purchase essentials such as clothing. toiletries and cleaning items to provide to people experiencing hardship in Sunderland Newcastle Bulldlng Society provided funding via the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear towards our advice and crlsis work which part-funded one of our Soclal Welfare TraineeslApprentices. The Natlonal Lottery Fund Communlty Cost of Llvlng Fund provided an emergency fund to support FISCUS and other community and voluntary, not-for-profit organisations who were affected by the cost-of-living crisis. The funding enabled FISCUS to continue and expand our crisis work until March 2024. Fundralser #2 Spacehlve S.A.F.E was a Crowd Fundraiser whlch successfully raised funds to support our Warm Welcome Space and our crisis, advice and community work delivered at the Co- op Centre. The funds also enabled us to purchase a new shipping container for our recycling projects. Sunderland Clty Councll Household Support Fund 4 was provided by Sund8rland Cty Council to support people in crisis with insufficient money lo buy essentials that they need. .35-
FISCUS NORTH LIMITED (BY GUARANTEE) NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Slr James Knott - provides a charitable grant to enable FISCUS to employ a part-time Social Welfare Coordinator to deliver our crisis activits'es for vulnerable children. adulls and families. This grant also supports our volunteers to run our Bundles for Babies Baby Bank and our Community Clothes Bank. Sunderland CC Food & Care Package - this grant supports the purchase of food, hygiene and essential items for people experiencing hardship in Sunderland. SIB Reach Fund Grant - Funded external Consultancy support. community consultalion and feasibility to explore new community trading ideas to be developed by FISCUS at the Co-op Centre. Access to Justlce ILTA- This 5-year grant enables FISCUS to increase the quality of our Advice & Crisis services, develop Evaluation, Monitoring & Leaming (MEL) and explore new ways of working. The grant also funds a full-lime Advice Services Manager and 8 Welfare Benefits & Crisis Worker. HSFS Household Support Fund- Supports vulnerable individuals and families with essential and emergency Items that they otherwise could not afford. Crowdfunder #1 Our Chlldr•n's Kltchen is a community Crowdfundèr to raise funding to develop a Children's Kitchen conslructed from a recycled shipping container. Our Chlldren's Kitchen will also provide wider communlty ser4ices, including supporting our Warm Welcome Spaces, our Community Foodbank and trading part-time as a community deli to cover the costs of food for children during the school holidays. The 29th May 1961 Charltable Trust - provided a grant towards the cost of developing Our Children's Kitchen project to alleviate child hunger and child povety in Sunderland. 20. Company Llmlt•d by Guarantee The charitable company is limited by guarantee in that every member undertakes to contribute such amounts as may be required in the event of the charitable company being wound-up, for the payments of the debts, liabilities, and the cost of wlnding up not exceeding £1 per member. -36-