SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI SO¢opA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st March 2024 Coiitcnts Trustees Annual report for the year ending 31st March 2024............................ Reference and Administrative Information .......................................,........................................ Achievements and Performance,...............................................................................,..... ........... Breaking Down Barriers.................................,................................................,................................ Support families with SEN children...............................,...-.................................................... Community Family Events & Volunteer Training......................................................................... Educational InitiY4tives..............................................,............................................,............. Tuition/Science .. .10 Overall Impact................................................................,.............................................,..................ii Cultural Celebrations & Health Initiatives...................................................................................12 Community Support Groups......................................... Hiddo Group's Cultural Contribution..........................................................................................12 Plans for future periods.............................................. .12 .13 Requirements: ......... ..................................,........................................,.................................... 13 Structure, Governance and Management.. . ..................................... .. ................................... 14 Recruitment and appointment of Trustees............................ Trustee induction and Training................................................................................... .................14 Volunteers............................................,...........................................................................................14 Financial Revieiv.......................................................................................................... ............ 14 .14 Reserves policy..................,..............................................................................................................14 Investment Policy............................................................................................................................15 RISK MAIYAGEMENT..............,...................................................................................................15 Independent Examiner's Report............................................................................................... 16 Financial Statements Year Ending 31st March 2024...................................... .17 Page l of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI SOCOPA Trustees Annual report for the year ending 31st March 2024 The trustees, who are also known management committee prepares their annual report for the pury)oses of Charity Commission law, and the independently examined financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 st March 2024. Reference and Adniinistrative InformatEon Charity Name: Somali Community Parents Association CIO (SOCOPA) Charity registered Number: 1152565. Registered Office and Operational Office is 19 Brunswick Street Leicester LEI 2LP. Trustee Board: l . Mr Jama Mohamoud Chainnan 2. Mr Farhan Ali Treasurer 3. Mr Noor Hussein Secretary 4. Mrs Ubah Egal-mullon Trustee (Mrs. Ubah Egal-mullon has resigned frorn the th Trustee on 5 August 2024. Senior Management Team: l. Mr Abdikayf Bashir Farah Chief Executive Bankers HSBC Bank 2-6 Gallowtree Gate Leicester LEI I DA Independent Examiners Shabbeer & Co Limited 62 Harring worth Road Leicester LE5 6T Charitable Alms and Objectives This organization is established to deliver services and support for charitable purposes, primarily targeting people of Somali heritage in the UK and those living in Somalia (East Africa). The main objectives are: a) Advancement of Education Providing community-based education, such as homework clubs, out-of-school learning programs, and ESOL classes. Raising community awareness and delivering essential life skills training. b) Prevention or Relief of Poverty Offering practical support, services, and facilities to individuals and families in need, both in the UK and Somalia. Providing advice and assistance to help families improve their living conditions. Page 2 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPA} c) Recreation and Social Welfare Creating and maintaining recreational facilities to promote social welfare and enhance thc quality of life for beneficiarics. This comprehensive approach aims to uplift the East African community by addressing their educational, financial, and social needs. SOCOPA is rooted in the community it serves. Our offices are in St Matthew's in Leicester and many of our programmes serve the community there as well as attracting people from across the city. SOCOPA exASts to meet the needs of Somalis, East Africans, and anyone building a home in Leicester. Our community faces many challenges, such as inequality, poverty, language barriers and isolation. SOCOPA works for the betterment of the community through a range of services including English classes, youth clubs, skills training and culture nights and drop-in sessions with bilingual advisors. Overall, our most successful and rewarding work has been helping people address the complex needs identified in above. Alongside this we have been able to secure funding from various sources including Lloyds Foundation, The National Lottery Reaching Communities, and Leicester/shire NHS Partnership Trust. The introduction of a new system for capturing data, using the Salesforce customer relationship management platfonn, has made a big difference in how we use data, register clients and manage their infomlation. All staff have access to the inforniation and can now input/ update the content (whereas before we did not use a centralised system). We are able to easily capture a range of data that we didn't have access to before - for example primary and secondary pUoseS of visit. Our focus on supporting clients, digital skills (through providing IT access, training and developing a stronger local profile in this area for adults), as well as providing SIM cards for those in hardship, has made a real difference to clients. One of our most successful projects has been delivering English (ESOL) classes and social gathering for people who are asylum seekers, refugees, new arrivals and encouraging them to learn the language and securing jobs for some of these people as well as helping them to access further education at local colleges. Further, the Multiply Maths project (funded by the City Council) has offered clients Enty level 1, 2 and 3 in Maths alongside English classes. Having a qualification or certificate of achievement in these two subjects significantly increases clients, chances of finding employment. We have developed a triaging system and stronger working relationships with other focussed ESOL providers (e.g. Adult Education, Open Hands charity and The Race Equality Centre) so that we can direct students effectively to classes at their level. This next academic year we hope to run an additional specific class for those who have no literacy in association with another local group. We are looking to raise funds for additional staff so we can employ another welfare support worker with a focus on housing and employment. Additional capacity in these areas would make a big difference. We did trial having an experienced local housingthomelessness charity Page 3 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) cop worker in our drop-in sessions one day a week but this did not work out - probably because of a lack of understanding of thc East African culture and our clients, lack of trust in that professional approach. Improvements in our communications will help us to raise further funds and spread the word that we are here and making an impact. Through our communications consultant we are bcginning to re-design our on-line services and w¢ expect to see the impact of this in the coming months. Connected to this is how we use technology, and our Salesforce system can be extended and developed further. However, we need to do this at the right speed and to take everyone in the organisation together at the same time. Achievements and Performance SOCOPA Drop-In Services: Empowering Communities Through Support and Advocacy we have observed a significant increase in the number of individuals seeking support through our drop-in centre, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes, and weekly social meetings. Currently, over 4,500 people access our community support and services annually. These include our drop-in centre, ESOL English classes, weekly open-access social meetings, and a range of outreach and educational proarnS. Their needs vary - we offer a range of assistance, and some come for long tenn systemic and ongoing issues where their needs are for clear communication and guidance. This includes a growing number of asylum seekers from diverse nationalities who are drawn to the essential services we provide. These include: Free SIM Cards with Data: Offered to individuals on low incomes, enabling them to stay connected. Regular English Classes: Tailored for new arrivals and asylum seekers to support their integration and language development. Addressing Homelessness We have also witnessed an increase in the number of homeless individuals seeking support. Through our trained bilingual advisors, we assist them in accessing welfare and housing services, providing a pathway toward stability and dignity. Fostering Social Connections and Job Readiness Our weekly social gatherings provide a welcoming environment for women to connect, exchange experiences. and build supportive relationships. These gatherings also offer practical assistance with job applications, empowering participants to improve their employability and feel more integrated into the community. Access to Mainstream Services and Digital Support Page 4 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) •Q¢OPA We help individuals overcome barriers to accessing mainstream services by helping with.. Digital tasks such as PTinting, photocopying, sanning, and translating documents. Reading and responding to official correspond¢nce, ensuring clients can navigyate complex processes confidently. Calling various welfare agencies and utilities companies. Support with Debt and Utility Arrears The rising cost of living has resulted in an increasing number of clients struggling with council tax, rent, and utility bill debts. Many receive threatening letters from landlords or utility providers, which can cause immense aThxiety and confusion. This is where SOCOPA plays a vital role: Our bilingual advisors assist clients in understanding and responding to these letters. We act as intermediaries, contacting landlords, local authorities, and utility companies on their behalf. On average, it takes 45 minutes to reach these agencies, which adds significant strain on our resources but remains a critical part of our service. Using our Salesforce CRM system, we work with clients one-on-one to develop personalized support plans, providing follow-up calls to ensure progress and resolution. Breaking Down Barriers Many of the individuals we support face significant challenges, including: Unfamiliarity with the Host Country: Struggling to navigate systems they are new to. Language Barriers: Making communication difficult. Digital Exclusion: Lack of access or knowledge to utilize digital tools. Lack of Confidence: Hesitation in approaching mainstream services. Enhancing Our Impact Through Training and Strategic Communication Recognizing the importance of showcasing our work and engaging effectively on social media, we sought support to enhance our digital presence. With funding from Lloyds Foundation and guidance from their regional manager, we were connected with a consultancy that helped us develop a comprehensive communication strategy. Through this partnership: Training: Six membcrs of our team, including staff, trustees, and volunteers, received in-depth training on leveraging social media platforn]s. Page S of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPA) COPA Outcom¢s: As a result, we have significantly improved our social media Presence. created impactful content, and developed messaging templates to ensure consistent and engaging communication. Building Skills to Serve Our Community To better meet the needs of our clients, we have invested in the professional development of our staff and volunteers by offering training in critical areas, including: Welfare and Benefits Support: Empowering our team to provide guidance on complex welfare issues. Counselling and Mental Health Support: Equipping them with skills to address the emotional and psychological needs of vulnerable individuals. Safeguarding: Ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults and children in our community. Addressing Housing Challenges Many of our clients live in substandard private rental accommodations, facing issues such as: Damp and Mould: Poorly maintained homes that negatively impact tenants, health and well-being. High Energy Costs: The expense of heating these homes in winter disproportionately affects low-income tenants and those relying on benefits, such as Universal Credit. In response, we have partnered with Green Doctor Charity, an organization committed to improving home energy efficiency and comfort. This collaboration allows us to: Refer Clients for Home Visits: Green Doctor representatives provide practical advice and assistance during these visits. Distribute Wann Packs and Energy-Efficient Lighting: These resources help reduce costs and improve living conditions for tenants. Our Commitment Through these initiatives, we continue to demonstrate our dedication to improving the quality of life for our clients. By investing in staff and volunteer training, building strategic partnerships, and addressing critical housing issues, we strive to ernpower individuals and foster a more resilient and inclusive community. ESOLI English Classes sparking learning from arrival - bridging the gap SOCOPA Friday afternoon 2pm ESOL class is effective time for rnen who take Friday as their day of rest. From employment on a casual or temporary basis (delivery /taxi /warehousing) - perhaps the only time they can attend a class. From the first it presents as a Beginners class but by using video / dialogue I native speakers and graduated materials the class has something for everybody. Page 6 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI *OGOp But for asylum seekers 2pm Friday class has become the vital first St in connecting with their host society as we now receive asylum seekers within a few days of them arriving in Leicester- current students recommend the class where there are teachers and I . I conversation practice and provision of a subsidised text book (on payment of half cost) with a learn-at-home app access and teacher-led reinforcement. The average time in the class 8 - 10 weeks for asylum seekers who are moved away from Leicester; others who live in Leicester longer come weekly over the course of many months and attend an average of 36 classes a year. However, few leave the 2pm Friday Whatsapp group on which teachers send up to date videos with simple English practice and reinforce the Friday lesson even when they live in another city. Main current attendees 35 students - 40 % Sudanese, 25 % Iranian, l O % Afghan, l O % Yemeni, 15 % v other African and Middle Eastern nationalities. Women also attend the class (women who work on other days, who attend other classes but welcome the practice and the welcome). Wednesday and Thursday morning classes attract more women from East African communities, Iranians, Af&Fhans who are not yet accessing classes as well as men from the Friday class who have time to attend. Community - water, fruit and biscuits complement the learning as well as access to the Drop- in Cenlre Sta s expertise in common problems - this class creates community for a population which knows little welcome. Our accurate recordkeeping recobynised by local agencies and job centres - providing a service that WhatsApp recommendations for extra learning include articles, reinforcement Small group class for illiterate women (those who have never had literacy in their own language and those who have not started to speak or write in English at all). Slow painstaking progress with our volunteers. From the start OUT aim is to get people Into mainstream classes where they will flourish and we maintain records and advocate for them to access other classes - attending registration days, cncouraging attendance at assessments, checking on progress. In this we partner with other organisations - Leicester Adult Education, Leicester College, TREC and Open Hands English classes. Page 7 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. (SOCOPAI This is one of our ESOL English classes. In August 2024 we have seen particular success in helping 8 Somali women leave the 'safety' of Somali community-run ESOL classes to join mainstr&qm classes and learn alongside other nationalities and majority native speakers. The previous year's cohort 4 students were the forerunners and 3 of these are now accessing mainstream classes at both Leicester College and Open Hands and are well on the way to competent English speaking and having greater employment opportunities.Practice with native speakers is something we want to foster more by encouraging increasing numbers of volunteers to corne for chat lessons. Asylum seekers ESOL English class. Page 8 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPA) so¢opA Support families with SEN children Most weeks five staff hours are spent with specific and professional advice for families with SEN children helping them navigate th¢ pathways to support helping them to work with an alongside professional bodies apply for EHCP, choose right schools, set up effective communication and relationship between parent and school. Community Family Events & Volunteer Training During the Easter break of 2023, SOCOPA hosted a series of family community events, fostering a spirit of unity and celebration among community members. These events were complemented by targeted training sessions for our volunteers, focusing on community organizing. This dual approach has enabled us to strengthen our community engagement and cnhance the effectiveness of our initiatives, such as the Hiddo group and the SOCOPA Youth Programme. POWER NGRY Educational Initiatives The continuation of our science prograrn signifies SOCOPA'S commitment to educational excellence. Our young volunteers have been instrumental in leading science club sessions, where participants engage in experiments and presentations that unravel the complexities of science in a fun and accessible manner. Page 9 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPA} octsPA Tuitionlscience Maths and English Classes Our regular tuition classes in Maths and English are an essential component ofour educationalprogram. These classesfocus on improving students, slalls in these core subjects. eatering to diverse abilities to ensure each sludent receives personalized Support and opportunitiesfor growth. Community Language (md Cultural Programs We also offer community language classes alongside cultural arls programs, including folklore dances. lailoredfor children andyoungpeople wiihin our community. These programs aini to preserve cultural heritage and encourage creative expression among the younger generalion. comprehen.five Science Tuition Collaborative Sessions wilh Researchers.. Through partnerships with researchersfrom Leicester and Cambridge University. we provide students with the chance to engage in scientific research and explore advanced methodologies. These sessions are crucial in cultivating a hands-on. in-depth understanding ofscientific concepts andprinciples. Page 10 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPAI *OGop Overall Impact The relaunched SOCOPA Youth Programme stands as a beacon of youth empowennent and cornmunity development. The structure, funding, and awards highl11t its success and the profound impact it has on the youth. By offering a range of activities and fostering an environment of learning and growth, the program not only enhances the physical and mental well-being of its participants but also instils in them values such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership. The program's ability to cater to different age groups with varied interests further amplifies its inclusivity and appeal within the community. Page 11 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI •OCOpA Cultural Celebrations & Health Initiatives The Somali Festival in Leicester was yet again a centrepiece event, showcasing Somali culture and heritage, and strengthening connections within the diaspora. Additionally, our Mind Body Soul events have brought health professionals into the heart of our community, facilitating invaluable networking and support among NHS members, mental health services, and charity organizations. mpowering people tolive he -Ar lives I1¢kn.:are Whafs ihe lastest woy to appts Community Support Groups SOCOPA has initiated fathers, and mothers, coffee mornings, Providing vital social spaces for community rnernbers to connect and support each other. These gatherings, along with our continued support for the elderly through the distribution of warni blankets and heat pads, underscore our holistic approach to community well-being. Hiddo Group's Cultural Contribution 41 Hiddo Events: SOCOPA Hiddo is a group of mothers in the community who have got together and have concluded that one of the biggest issues we face today as a community is Page 12 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) SO¢OPA they younger generations are losing touch with the culture and heritage. They focus specifically on mothers and girls, doing their cultural events where they invite mothers and girls to come together, eat, socialise, and do traditional dancing. Cultural Perforniances: The Hiddo Group's participation in events like the Babington school culture day (20103/2023) plays a vital role in celebrating and preserving Somali culture within the community. Their perforniances are not just entertaining but also educational, offering insights into Somali traditions and heritage. Plans for future periods Barriers: SOCOPA is at the heart of overcrowded St Matthew's, a distinct neighbourhood close to Leicester city centre but cut off from it by major roads. The area is diverse but predominantly of Somali origin. Overcrowding is a serious issue: 15 % of households have a density of1.5 people per room compared with 30/0 in Leicester and l 0/0 in England as a whole. 65 % of the population of St. Matthew, s is typically employed in lower skilled jobs or has not worked at all, compared with 42 % in Leicester and 30% in England as a whole. Current facilities: Our one-roomed office at the Quba Centre doubles up as a training and meeting room (we have occasional acccss to another large room). We have neither reception nor kitchen nor toilet facilities but share with other tenants in the building. We regularly rent space in the council-run neighbourhood centre and in other venues across St Matthew's but this both increases staff and facilities costings and limits our activities. Requirements: A reception area where advice clients and other visitors can wait in comfort rather than being turned away because of confidentiality. A good-sized room to meet clients in confidence. 2 trainin teaching rooms each large enough to hold up to 20 students (ideally these rooms could convert to one large room for larger gatherings and community events) A good-sized community kitchen and eating area for up to 20 people. creche that can support childcare provision if parents are accessing support or attending meetings. Monitored washroorn facilities. Disabled access Research into mental health problems and trauma arising from war and refugee status, development work with education and health professionals to enable them to support school children and adults more effectively at risk from trauma and related health problems targeted youth provision to address educational underachicvernent and other youth problems identified as well as Working with new arrivals, refugees and asylum seekers who need support with settling in to life in Leicester. There are current issues regarding violent crimes within the community that we are hoping to establish root causes of these problems. To address this, we are planning on strengthening family relationships by bridging the cultural gaps between Parents who have immiated from abroad and the youth that were born and raised here in the UK. Page 13 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. (SOCOPAI •ocop* Structure, Governance and Management Somali Community Parents Association was registered as a charity in February 2009 and converted to a Charitable Incorporation Organisation (CIO) on 24 June 2013. Rccruitment and appointment of Trustces The Trustees are charity trustees for the PUTposes of charity law and under the charity model constitution. Under the requirements of the constitution the trustees are appointed for a period of three years after which they must be re-appoint¢d at the annual General Meeting. Trustees seeks to ensure that Trustees body includes people with knowledge and experience of working with communities. Trustee induction and Training Somali Community Parents Association CIO has a Board of 4 members who meet quarterly and are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the charity. The Board has an established project advisory working group which meets when required. A scheme of delegation is in place and the day-to-day management of the charity rests with the senior management team, volunteers, and Sessional workers. The Chief Executive is responsible for ensuring the sound management and monitoring of the activities and programmes and reporting to the trustees and fundcrs and financia] management. Volunteers We are grateful for the many hours, volunteers have spent listening and encouraging the parents and young people and working with our workers. Without their time, energy, and expertise we would not have been able to achieve so much. as an organization we appreciate their valuable contribution. Our strengths lie in our volunteer's support, parent, s involvement, and community participation. We have a team that monitors grants that are available, fundraise and aid SOCOPA in drafting grant proposals. We now have 13 volunteers in our different programmes that have contributed their valuable time and skills to support our work that we do for the community. Financial Review The trustees present their annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 st March 2024. The board of trustees ar¢ satisfied with the perfonnance of the charity during the year and the position on 31 st March 2024 and consider that the charity is in a strong position to continue its activities during the coming year, and that the charity's assets are adequate to fulfil its obligations. The charity will continue to seek further funding to deliver its objects. Reserves policy The charity reserves policy is to hold six to twelve months operating expenses in unrestricted funds. It is felt this level of reserves is necessary because it can often take many months for grant applications to be processed. The trustees have established a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not comrnitted or invested in tangible fixed assets (free reserves) held by the charity should be between 6 and 12 months of the resources expended, which cquates to £3 5,000 to £55,000 in general funds. At this level the Trustees feel that they would be able to continue current activities of the charity in the event of a significant drop in funding. Page 14 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI •O¢OPA Investment Policy The charity does not produce a sufficient surplus to invest, as priority must be given to building our unrestricted reserves. We have expanded significantly to develop a strong income stream from Trusts, foundations, and our members. We are developing range of unrestricted income venue hire, and donations are a significant contribution to our development. We have put in place a range of methods to ensure we can continue to obtain further income from the private sector, individuals, and grant- making institutions. RISK MANAGENIENT The trustees have assessed the major risks to which SOCOPA is exposed and are satisfied that those systems are in place to mitigate exposure to the major risks. Investment Policy The charity does not produce a sufficient SUTplus to invest, as priority must be giv¢n to building our unrestricted reserves. The trustees actively review the major risks which the charity faces on a regular basis and believe that maintaining the free reserves at the levels stated above will give sound resources in the event of the adverse conditions. In order minimize our fixed costs we started delivering some our major programmes and activities at St Matthews Neighbourhood Centre which is a shared space owned by the Leicester City Council. During the Covid-19 pandemic, we had to review our risk assessment policy and adopt the central and local government guidelines, implementing social distancing, face masking and hand equipment sanitisation. Approved by the Management Committee and signed on its behalf by Trustee sign: Date: iJ- ij-jo Page 15 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) •OCopA Independent Examiner's Report INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF SOh14U CONthIUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. FOR THE YEIIR ENDED 31 M4RCH 2024 I report to the trustees on ry eXanlnati of the financial statents of Somali CorrjnIty Parents Associats'on C.l.O {e charity.) for the year ended 31 VArch 2024. RESPONSIBILITIES AND BASIS OF REPORT As Ihe trust of Ihe charity you are responsible for the eparati of Ihe financial sLitennts in accordance VAlh the rU1rerrents of ts Charth'es Act 2011 ('the Acf). Ha¥ing sats'sfied rysett Ihat ts financial stalenEnts of the charity are not required to be aLKliteJ arKI are eg[b for indepeThJent exaninati(n, I report in reSt of ry exarrmnation of the charity's financial staterrts carried out urthr sects'on 145 of the Charit'es Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,) and in carrying out exaffination I ha foknd all Ihe appqicable Direcbons gi1 by Ihe Charity con18s1On under section 145(5)(b) of Ihe 2011 Act INDEPENDENT EXAMNER'S STATEhENT I ha cryleted ry eyaninabon. I confirm that rlo material matters ha ccKre k) my attents'on in connection ilh &xamination gibing rr£ cause to belithe that in any nBterial respecL 1. accountsng records VIe not kept in respect of Ihe Gharty as requrgj ty ction 130 of Ihe Act or 2. the financial statwrents do not &cord 1th Itmx record8: or 3. the financial Statets do t conwy Vilh the al¢ab r4uirenpnts cOerning the form and content of acclwnts set out in Ihe Charits'es (ACcots and Rewts) RvJuLgtions 2CK)8 olher Ihan any reqUireent trBt Ihe accounts give a 'true arvj fair, vthich is not a cortsidered as part of an irKleper¥Jent exarrinat'on. I habE no Concerrts and ha Con acrc6s other n*s in confEcbon 1th Ihe ex2ninats.on to thich attenti shoukj thaV in Ihis reFKXt in Lyder to enabk a underslarKling of the accounts to be reached. SHABBEER AHhED LORGAT IAPA AW Independent Exarriner For and on behaff of Shabbeer & Co Linited 62 Harringworth Road, LEICESTER, LE5 6TL Date: 12 Decerthr 2024 Page 16 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPAI gOeopA Financial Statements Year Ending 31st March 2024 SOMALI COMMUNrrf PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTivrriES AS AT 31 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted funds Restricted funds 2024 Total 2023 Total Incoming Resources Donations, legacies and &ants Other income 50,511 64,555 115,066 80,749 21 Total incoming resources 50,511 64.555 115.066 80,770 Resources expended Costs of activities in furtherance of charitsble objects PrenNses costs Management and administration 34,295 3,413 8,371 48.046 4.781 11.728 82.341 8,194 20.099 75,261 9,745 12,810 Total resources expended 46,079 64,555 110.634 97,816 Net incoming resources 4,432 4.432 (17,046) Total funds brought forward 101,647 101.647 118,693 Total funds carried forward 106,079 106,079 101,647 Page 17 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION S AT 31 PMRCH 2024 Notes 2024 2023 Fixed Assets Tangible assets 360 Current Assets Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 9,861 141,750 151,611 153 112,731 112,884 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Creditors . Short Term Deferred Renue (4,864) (41,027) (45,891) {1,100) (10.137) (11,237) Net currenl assets 105,719 101,647 Total assets less current liabilities Funds Unrestricted funds 106,079 106 079 101,647 Appro*d by the Board of the Charity Trustees on arKI signed on their behalf: Page 18 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) •OCOPA NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 l. Accounting policies 1.1 Basls of pparatIon of flnanclal statements The f inancial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charitie5 SORP {FRS 1021 Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparin8 their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 leffective l January 20191, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021. the Charities Act. 1.2 Going Concern The charity is mainly reliant upon donations and 8rant income to raise revenue to meet future expenditure. The Trustees consider that it is appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis. This assumes that the charitable incorporated organisation ICIOI will be successful in its fundraising activities. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that would result if insufficient funds are raised. I n formulating this assessment the Trustees have taken into consideration the impact of the global cost of living crisis on the charitys ability to raise f unds. 1.3 Taxation As a charity. Somali Community Parents Association CIO ISOCOPAI is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act or s256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. 1.4 Incoming Resources All income is included in the statement of f inancial activities when entitlement has passed to the charity, it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the charity and the amount can be reliably measured. Income from donations or grants is recognised when there is evidence of entitlement to the gift, receipt is probable and its amount can be measured reliably. 1. 5 Fixed assets and depreciation Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. The following rates and methods are used.. Plant & Equipment: 25810 Straight line Fixtures & Fittings: 25% straight line IT Equipment: 25% straight line All equipment, fixtures, and f ittings with an original cost of less than £400 are written off in the year in which the expenditure was incurred. This is based on the principle that due to the nature of SOCOPA'S activities, there is no expectation that the cost of these assets will be recovered through f uture revenues. Page 19 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. {SOCOPA) SOCOPA NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 l. Accountlng policles (continued) 1.5 Resources expended Expenditure is recognized once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benef its will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured relia bly. Expenditure is classif led by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs nvolved in underta king each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. 2. Donations, legacies and grants Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 Total 2023 Total Leiecester Adult Education (Multiply I Awards for All Barnados Big Issue Invest Community Matters Foundation Covid 19 Grants General Donation5 and Sundry Income Good Things Foundation Leicester City Council Grants Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation Lloyds Bank Foundation Positive Youth Foundation Reaching Community Sphere Science Street Games UK Voluntary Action Leicester 31,500 31,500 2,639 1,000 5,000 2,863 6,000 7,778 1,024 15,000 8,870 10,000 3,577 2.639 1,000 5,000 2,863 330 1,000 330 1.000 6,000 18,311 19,976 19,976 10,417 3,333 21,611 2,931 9,966 2.500 115,066 10,417 3,333 1,250 21,611 2,931 2,960 9,966 2.500 64,555 50,511 80.770 Page 20 of 21
SOMALI COMMUNITY PARENTS ASSOCIATION C.I.O. ISOCOPA) •O¢OPA IIOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted fund5 Restricted funds 2024 Total 2023 Totsl 3. Analyses of resources expended Costs of activities in furtherance of charitable objects Employment costs Gross wages and salaries Casual staff Staff training and welfare Chartable expenditure Events Facilities hire 25,256 6,710 806 35.383 9,401 1,129 60,639 16,111 1,935 53,103 12,267 1,951 515 35 1,488 49 2.085 84 3,573 7,426 34,295 48,046 82,341 75,261 Premises costs Rent 3,315 28 70 4,645 39 97 7,960 67 167 7,040 134 2,572 General and water rates Repairs and renewals 3,413 4.781 8,194 9,745 Management and administratlon Bank charges Computer and software Depreciation Insurance Legal and professional fees Miscellaneous Motor vehicle expense5 Printing and stationery Subscriptions Telephone and internet Travellin& hotels and accommodation 48 241 26 193 5,255 753 46 212 67 337 36 115 578 61 463 12,617 1,809 iio 86 1,092 270 7,362 1,055 459 5,957 2,566 298 511 1.042 ioi 892 615 292 1,305 409 1,829 702 3,134 8,371 11,728 20,099 12,810 Page 21 of 21