2023-12-31-accounts - Divine Television Foundation Ltd

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COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 06745677 CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 1154874

Divine Television Foundation Ltd Company Limited by Guarantee Financial Statements For the year ended 31 December 2023

XAVIERS ACCOUNTANTS LIMITED

Chartered Certified Accountants & statutory auditor Suite 3J Recycling Lives Centre 1A Essex Street Preston PR1 1QE

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Financial Statements

Year ended 31 December 2023

	Page
Trustees' annual report (incorporating the director's report)	1
Independent auditor's report to the members	17
Statement of financial activities (including income and
expenditure account)	22
Statement of financial position	23
Statement of cash flows	24
Notes to the financial statements	25
The following pages do not form part of the financial statements
Detailed statement of financial activities	35
Notes to the detailed statement of financial activities	36

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report)

Year ended 31 December 2023

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their report and the financial statements of the charitable company for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Reference and administrative details

Registered charity name	Divine Television Foundation Ltd
Charity registration number	1154874
Company registration number	06745677
Principal office and registered	Divine Retreat Centre UK
office	St Augustine's Abbey
	St. Augustine's Road
	Ramsgate
	Kent
	CT11 9PA
	England
The trustees
	Rev George Panackal
	Rev Lijo Joseph
	Rev Antony Thekkanath
	Rev Francis Cheruparampil John
	Rev Poulose Parekkattil Ouseph
	Dr Augustine Vallooran
	Mr Francis Mathew
	Rev Sudhin Pallichamkudiyil Paulose	(Appointed 15/09/2023)
	Rev Vinod George
Company secretary	Rev Lijo Joseph
Auditors	Xaviers Accountants Limited
	Chartered Certified Accountants & statutory auditor
	Suite 3J
	Recycling Lives Centre
	1A Essex Street
	Preston
	PR1 1QE
Accountants	Johns Accountancy Limited
	4 Northville Road
	Bristol,
	BS7 0RG
Bankers	Barclays Bank UK PLC
	Leicester
	UK
	LE87 2BB

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Structure, governance and management

Divine Television Foundation Ltd is a charitable company, limited by guarantee, registered under the Companies Act 2006, (Company Registration Number: 06745677) and the Charities Act 2011 (Charity Registration Number: 1154874).

Other names used by the Charity are Divine Retreat Centre Ramsgate, Vincentian Divine Retreat Centre Pantasaph and Divine UK Ministries.

Governing document

The organisation's activities are governed by its memorandum and articles of association. The primary objective of Divine Television Foundation Ltd is to advance the Roman Catholic religion for the benefit of the public, in accordance with the statement of faith adopted by the charity. It operates with the mission to advance the Catholic faith worldwide.

Governance

The charity's policy is determined by a board of trustees, appointed according to the provisions in the articles of association.The Trustees determine, as they consider necessary, their number, although this may not be less than two. Trustees attend formal and informal training sessions to stay informed about best practices, with a focus on maintaining robust safeguarding policies. These policies are reviewed frequently to ensure a safe environment for all activities. The board meets regularly to oversee operations, review activities, and update policies as needed. Additional meetings are held to address specific issues or projects, ensuring responsive and effective governance.

Management of day-to-day activities

The appointed trustees, Fr. Vinod George and Fr. Sudhin Paulose, manage the day-to-day operations of the foundation. Fr. Vinod George serves as the Managing Director, leading strategic planning and public engagement efforts to advance the charity's mission. Fr. Sudhin Paulose serves as the Secretary and Finance Officer, responsible for the financial management and administrative functions of the charity.

Both play a pivotal role in aligning the foundation's activities with its objectives of spreading the Catholic faith and providing spiritual and charitable services. Regular meetings with the trustees ensure that the charity's progress is continually assessed, and that compliance with legal and regulatory standards is maintained.

Professional support

The trustees are supported by professional services, such as Ernst & Young, and expert solicitors who offer training, legal advice, and guidance regarding the charity's activities. These advisors also assist in refining governance practices and ensuring that the charity adheres to all legal requirements. Comprehensive policies and procedures are in place for the induction and training of trustees, ensuring that new members are equipped with the knowledge needed to fulfill their roles effectively.

Compensation for dedicated service

While the majority of trustees serve without remuneration, there are some who dedicate themselves fully to the charity's mission. These trustees may receive compensation for their services due to the significant time and commitment they invest in the daily operations and activities of the charity. Additionally, to comply with UK visa regulations, some trustees are compensated in accordance with UK standard wage requirements. This arrangement helps ensure that the organisation has the necessary expertise and leadership to fulfill its mission effectively.

Overall, the governance and management structure of Divine Television Foundation Ltd is designed to uphold its mission while maintaining transparency, accountability, and a strong commitment to serving the Catholic community.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Objectives and activities

The primary objective of Divine Television Foundation Ltd is to advance the Roman Catholic religion for the benefit of the public, in accordance with the statement of faith adopted by the charity. To achieve this mission, the charity organises a wide range of activities aimed at deepening the faith of believers and supporting their spiritual growth. These activities include:

Organising retreats and prayer meetings

Weekly retreats are conducted at the Divine Retreat Centres in Ramsgate and Pantasaph in multiple languages, including English, Konkani, Tamil, and Malayalam. These retreats provide opportunities for people of all ages from across the United Kingdom and beyond to engage in prayer, reflection, and learning about Catholic teachings. They serve as a space for spiritual renewal and a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith.

Training programs for Evangelisation

The foundation runs programs designed to train individuals and groups to advance the work of evangelisation. Participants are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to spread the message of the Gospel effectively, using traditional and digital platforms to reach diverse audiences.

Supporting families in difficulties

Recognising the challenges faced by many families, the charity offers spiritual guidance and practical assistance to those in need. This includes counselling, prayer support, and connecting families with resources to help them overcome difficulties.

Supporting individuals with addictions

The charity offers accommodation and retreats for those struggling with addictions such as alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse. The programs aim to spiritually motivate individuals and support their rehabilitation back into society.

Volunteer support

The charity is supported by numerous volunteers who assist with various activities, including maintaining the retreat centres, safeguarding, registration of attendees, room service, daily cooking and serving meals, sacristy work, and managing crowds during services, retreats, and conventions. Volunteers also play a critical role in managing the charity's digital platforms, including editing and publishing videos, managing social media, writing newsletter articles, attending to phone calls, responding to inquiries, and leading daily intercession prayers.

Support to similar charities

Divine Television Foundation Ltd extends its support to similar organisations with aligned missions, both in the UK and abroad. This support includes financial assistance, as well as physical support, such as sending teams to conduct retreats and other spiritual programs.

These activities have a significant positive impact on the community, fostering spiritual growth, providing support during times of hardship, and creating a sense of unity among believers. The details of these activities and their reach are further outlined below:

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Public benefit report for Divine Television Foundation Ltd

The trustees of Divine Television Foundation Ltd have adhered to the public benefit guidance provided by the Charity Commission, as required under Section 17(5) of the Charities Act 2011. The charity's activities are designed to benefit the public by promoting spiritual growth, providing support to those in need, and fostering a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith. This report outlines the ways in which the charity's activities have fulfilled these objectives, highlighting the significant impact on individuals, families, and communities in the UK and beyond.

Promoting spiritual growth

Organising Retreats and Prayer Meetings: The charity organises weekly residential retreats at its centres in Ramsgate and Pantasaph, conducted in multiple languages including English, Konkani, Tamil, and Malayalam. These retreats attract participants of all ages, offering them opportunities for spiritual renewal and deeper engagement with the teachings of the Catholic faith. These gatherings allow individuals to step away from daily life and focus on prayer, meditation, and personal reflection, which in turn contributes to their spiritual well-being.
Online Evangelisation Activities: The charity's digital presence through platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Zoom extends its reach globally, offering daily live streaming, short reflections, Bible studies, and Q&A sessions for youth and adults. Programs like "Under My Roof" and "Seek & Find" engage younger audiences, creating a platform for them to explore their faith in a modern context. This digital evangelization has made Catholic teachings accessible to thousands of people worldwide, many of of whom may not have access to in-person events.
24x7 Prayer Support: The Divine Prayer Tower operates continuously, offering intercessory prayer for people around the world. Participants can submit prayer requests and join the sessions, experiencing comfort and spiritual support during times of distress. This round-the-clock availability ensures that those in need of spiritual guidance have a resource they can turn to at any time.

Providing support to those in need

Support for Individuals Facing Addictions: Recognising the challenges of addiction, the charity offers specialised support through accommodation and retreats for individuals struggling with alcohol, smoking, and drug abuse. This includes spiritual counselling, prayer support, and a structured environment to aid their recovery. By integrating faith-based motivation with practical rehabilitation, the charity plays a crucial role in helping these individuals reintegrate into society.
Support for Families: The foundation provides spiritual guidance and practical assistance to families in distress, offering counselling services and resources to help them navigate difficult times. These efforts are particularly impactful for families experiencing grief, economic hardship, or relational difficulties, as they provide a network of support and a sense of community.
Charitable Outreach: The charity's commitment to service extends beyond spiritual activities, including the provision of hot meals to the homeless in London, distributing essentials like clothing and hygiene products during street outreaches, and supporting various aid projects in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Pakistan. These efforts not only address immediate needs but also foster a sense of dignity and hope among recipients.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Objectives and activities (continued)

Fostering a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith

Training for Evangelisation: Through structured training programs, the charity equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to carry out evangelisation work. This not only strengthens the faith of participants but also enables them to share their understanding with others, contributing to a broader awareness of Catholic teachings. Programs like the Society of Blessed Carlo Acutis empower youth to take an active role in digital evangelization, encouraging them to live out and share their faith.
Bible study programs: The charity offers online Bible study sessions and private retreats through its website, allowing participants to deepen their understanding of the scriptures. These sessions are accessible to anyone with internet access, making them an invaluable resource for those seeking to explore the Bible in a structured and guided manner.
Educational Resources: Through the publication of a monthly newsletter and the production of faith-based content for children (e.g., BAMBINO for Kids), the charity provides resources that support lifelong learning about the Catholic faith. Parents, educators, and families find these resources helpful in teaching younger generations about Christian values and principles.

Creating Community and Unity Among Believers

Engaging Volunteers: The charity's activities are supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who contribute their time and skills in various capacities, from managing digital platforms and editing videos to helping with daily operations like cooking, cleaning, and welcoming retreat participants. This volunteer network not only supports the practical needs of the charity but also creates a sense of community and shared purpose among those involved.
Support for Other Charities: Divine Television Foundation Ltd extends its mission by supporting similar charities both in the UK and abroad, offering financial aid and on-site assistance to facilitate retreats and other programs. This collaboration with like-minded organisations amplifies the impact of their collective efforts, spreading the message of faith to new regions and communities.

Impact and Reach

The charity's daily online services reach over 40,000 viewers worldwide, offering them spiritual guidance and support. The availability of content in multiple languages ensures that these messages are accessible to a diverse audience.
More than 10,000 people participate daily in the 24x7 prayer sessions, finding comfort and connection through the power of communal prayer.
The retreats and training programs have equipped numerous individuals with the skills to evangelize and mentor others, creating a ripple effect that extends the charity's influence beyond its immediate activities.
Charitable efforts, such as the distribution of over 10,000 free Bibles and the provision of hot meals to the homeless, directly address physical and spiritual needs, demonstrating the charity's commitment to holistic care.

The activities of Divine Television Foundation Ltd have a profound and far-reaching impact on individuals and communities, both in the UK and globally. By promoting spiritual growth, supporting those in need, and fostering a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith, the charity fulfils its mission while adhering to the public benefit requirements set forth by the Charity Commission. The trustees remain committed to maintaining transparency, accountability, and a dedication to service, ensuring that the charity continues to be a source of hope and inspiration for many.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Achievements and performance

Significant Activities in 2023

DIVINE UK Daily Live Streaming

A daily broadcast through YouTube and Facebook, reaching over 40,000 viewers worldwide with Catholic teachings and reflections.

UNDER MY ROOF for Youth

An online Q&A ministry for youth, conducted through Zoom, providing a space for young people to engage with faith-related discussions.

SEEK & FIND for Youth

A monthly Saturday Zoom session for youth, fostering engagement with the Catholic faith through interactive Q&A sessions.

BAMBINO for Kids

Video content designed for children, featuring skits, music, drama, and Bible quizzes produced by volunteers at the Divine Retreat Centre in Ramsgate.

Tuesday Conference for Priests and Religious

A Zoom conference held every first Tuesday of the month, attended by approximately 150 priests and religious members for spiritual discussion.

DIVINE Newsletter

A monthly digital publication featuring talks and articles from the foundation's priests, with over 20,000 subscribers.

DIVINE Prayer Tower 24x7

A continuous intercessory prayer service via Zoom, with approximately 10,000 daily participants joining in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.

Residential Retreats

Conducted in multiple languages (English, Konkani, Tamil, and Malayalam) at Ramsgate and Pantasaph, including two monthly English retreats.

DIVINE Hour

A weekly intercessory prayer gathering every Wednesday at noon, where over 100 participants pray for the world and the mission of the Divine Retreat Centre.

City-level Prayer Services Online intercessions in various UK cities (e.g., Wembley, Swindon, North London) and international locations like Kenya.

DEWFALL

Daily short reflections on the Word of God published on YouTube.

Private Online Retreats

A web-based feature allowing individuals to follow structured retreat programs from the comfort of their homes.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Bible Study Sessions

Conducted online through Zoom and YouTube, focusing on in-depth studies of the Bible.

Outreach Retreats

Held in different parishes across the UK and abroad, providing spiritual renewal and faith-building.

Society of Blessed Carlo Acutis

A virtual community of about 50 youths trained in Bible studies who conduct online sessions for others, focusing on digital evangelization.

DIVINE Institute of New Evangelization (DINE)

A training ministry aimed at equipping young people for effective evangelization.

DIVINE Youth Movement A platform for youth to come together and organize evangelization activities.

VOICE Ministry

Support for parents of special needs children, offering guidance and resources to navigate their unique challenges.

Proclamation of the Word through Social Media

Utilizing platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Free Distribution of the Bible

Over 10,000 Bibles have been distributed for free, making the Word of God accessible to many.

Charitable Outreach

Hot Meals for the Homeless: Providing meals to those in need in London.
International Aid Projects: Initiatives like donating goats, chickens, and sewing machines in Kenya; supporting sewing projects in Uganda; and providing bread-baking training in South Sudan.
Educational Support in Pakistan: Sponsoring students through the Justin Education Fund and offering monthly contributions.
Prison Ministry: Volunteers provide spiritual support to inmates, with ongoing efforts to expand this service.

Conclusion

In 2023, Divine Television Foundation Ltd has continued to make significant strides in fulfilling its mission of advancing the Roman Catholic faith for the benefit of the public. Through its diverse range of activities, including retreats, digital evangelization, and charitable outreach, the charity has reached thousands of individuals across the UK and around the world, providing spiritual nourishment and practical support to those in need.

The Divine Television Foundation Ltd's commitment to providing accessible spiritual resources through daily live streaming, prayer services, and online programs has enabled it to extend the reach of Catholic teachings to people from various backgrounds and regions. The retreats held at Ramsgate and Pantasaph, combined with specialized training programs, have fostered deep spiritual growth among participants, equipping them to carry forward the message of the Gospel.

Moreover, Divine Television Foundation Ltd has demonstrated a strong commitment to social responsibility, offering targeted support to individuals struggling with addiction, families facing

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

hardships, and vulnerable communities in need of basic necessities. Its collaborative efforts with volunteers and partnerships with other charities have strengthened the impact of these services, ensuring that the charity's work extends beyond its immediate scope to benefit the broader community.

The trustees have upheld their duties by adhering to the guidance of the Charity Commission, maintaining transparency and good governance, and ensuring that the foundation remains aligned with its objectives. The involvement of professional advisors and a robust training structure for trustees have further contributed to the effective management and integrity of the charity's operations.

Looking ahead, the trustees are dedicated to continuing the charity's mission with the same fervor and focus, adapting to the evolving needs of the community and finding new ways to serve and support individuals on their spiritual journeys. By staying true to its core values of faith, compassion, and service, Divine Television Foundation Ltd will remain a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change, fulfilling its role as a vital force in the advancement of the Catholic faith.

This report reflects the unwavering commitment of the trustees, management, volunteers, and supporters of Divine Television Foundation Ltd, whose collective efforts have made 2023 a year of profound impact and growth. The trustees extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported the charity's mission and look forward to continuing this journey together in the years to come.

Financial review

The total incoming resources of the charitable company for the year to 31 December 2023 were £1,373,953 (2022:£520,565). The regular income of the charity comes largely from the donations. In the year to 31 December 2023, £1,310,045 (2022:£520,449) was derived from donations and £61,262 (2022:£nil) was derived from charitable activities. Total expenditure on charitable activities was £551,923 (2022:£528,854).

As at 31 December 2023, the charity had unrestricted reserves of £3,604,022 (2022:£2,781,992). Included within unrestricted funds are fixed assets totalling £2,466,547 (2022:£2,381,197). These funds can only be realised upon sale of these assets. The charity had free reserves of £1,137,475 as at 31 December 2023 (2022: £400,795).

Going concern

Having considered the charity's financial position, the risks and uncertainties and unrestricted reserves, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue its activities for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.

Risk management

The trustees of Divine Television Foundation Ltd have conducted a comprehensive risk assessment to identify major risks to which the charity is exposed and to implement appropriate systems and procedures to mitigate these risks as far as is reasonably practicable. While it is recognised that risk cannot be entirely eliminated, the charity is committed to maintaining effective risk management practices and updating these systems regularly to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.

Risk monitoring and management

The trustees maintain ongoing monitoring of risks associated with critical areas, including cash handling, health and safety, safeguarding, and financial viability. Formal risk management processes assess potential risks, categorise them by type, and determine strategies for mitigation.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Financial review (continued)

Risks are categorised under the following broad headings:

Governance Risks
Operational Risks
Financial Risks
External Risks
Compliance Risks
Building Risks

Each risk is assessed based on the likelihood of occurrence, the potential severity of impact, and an overall impact rating to prioritise risk management actions. Identified Risks and Mitigating Measures are as follows:

Governance Risks

Trustee Training and Expertise: Given that trustees are responsible for day-to-day operations, it is essential they maintain current knowledge in charity governance, legal compliance, and safeguarding.

Mitigation: The charity has established a trustee induction and training process, with professional reviews from advisors such as Ernst & Young to strengthen governance support. Additionally, safeguarding policies are regularly reviewed and discussed in trustee meetings to ensure compliance and awareness.

Volunteer Reliance: The charity relies heavily on volunteers for operational support, which could impact consistency and quality if volunteer numbers fluctuate. However, new volunteers are consistently joining each month, supporting both charity and retreat activities and reducing this risk.

Mitigation: Volunteer training programs are in place, and the number of helpers and attendees has grown, ensuring a stable base for operations. Increased volunteer participation strengthens the charity's operational foundation, minimising governance risks.

Operational Risks

Health and Safety: Ensuring a safe environment for both employees and attendees at the charity's premises is critical. Most activities are low-risk, and public liability insurance and employer liability insurance are provided.

Mitigation: Health and safety standards are reviewed regularly, and public and employer liability insurance is maintained. Health and safety protocols are reinforced through regular training for staff and volunteers.

Event Management and Attendance: Despite challenges faced by other organizations due to declining church attendance, the charity has seen stable or growing attendance at retreats and events.

Mitigation: Divine Television Foundation Ltd has leveraged live streaming to engage a global audience, maintaining high attendance rates at in-person retreats and conventions. The charity's digital outreach continues to ensure a steady interest in its events, supported by a dedicated volunteer network.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Financial review (continued)

Financial Risks

Fraud / Financial Mismanagement: Effective financial controls are essential to ensure proper handling of funds.

Mitigation: Processes for financial management are in place and have been reviewed and strengthened where necessary. Regular audits and oversight by the Secretary and Finance Officer, Fr. Sudhin Paulose, provide additional layers of security.

Cash Handling and Financial Viability: Ensuring adequate financial control and cash handling procedures to support the charity's operations, especially with fluctuating donation levels, is essential.

Mitigation: The charity has established procedures for cash handling and maintains regular financial reviews led by the Finance Officer. Financial support through online donations, Gift Aid, and standing orders provides stability, and reserves are compliant with Charity Commission guidance.

Compliance with Visa Regulations: To comply with UK visa requirements, specific trustees receive compensation aligned with standard wage regulations. Divine Television Foundation Ltd holds a sponsorship license, which mandates thorough documentation and adherence to immigration protocols. The charity has all necessary documentation in place, following established processes to ensure compliance and uphold its sponsorship obligations.

Mitigation: Compensation for full-time trustees is set in line with UK wage standards, ensuring compliance with visa and immigration requirements while supporting continuity in the charity's leadership structure.

External Risks

Impact of COVID-19 and Public Health Risks: The charity faces risks related to pandemic restrictions and potential health crises, which could disrupt in-person events.

Mitigation: The charity has invested in live streaming capabilities, allowing thousands to participate in online services and events. This strategy ensures engagement remains high, even if in-person attendance is restricted, maintaining operational continuity.

Safeguarding Concerns: Divine Television Foundation Ltd is dedicated to protecting the vulnerable populations it serves and strictly adheres to safeguarding policies and procedures aligned with the Catholic Church in England and Wales. As a registered organization under the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (CSSA), the charity follows established policies available at www.catholicsafeguarding.org.uk. These policies outline essential safeguarding components, including: Policy statements and structure, Roles and responsibilities, Key principles and values, Legislative frameworks, Procedures for responding to allegations and concerns, Information sharing and data protection protocols, Safe recruitment processes, safer working practices, and creating a safe environment.

Additionally, Divine Television Foundation publishes these safeguarding practices on its website, divineuk.org, where key documents and guidance are readily accessible.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Financial review (continued)

The charity regularly organises training programs and meetings to ensure trustees and volunteers are up-to-date with safeguarding practices. Joanne Fernandez, the designated Safeguarding Lead, is responsible for keeping all safeguarding documents current and ensuring alignment with the policies of the Archdiocese of Southwark's safeguarding team. All volunteers undergo comprehensive vetting, including valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, reinforcing a safe environment for service delivery.

Mitigation: A dedicated Safeguarding Commission is in place, now supported by a Deputy Safeguarding Coordinator. Ongoing training programs for trustees and volunteers further strengthen safeguarding protocols, ensuring a robust framework for protecting vulnerable individuals.

Compliance Risks

Data Protection Compliance: The charity currently has two dedicated Data Protection Officers, and data handling practices strictly adhere to UK GDPR standards.

Mitigation: The charity engages professional volunteers within its Data Protection Commission and has established robust data protection practices. Regular data-handling training for relevant volunteers ensures continued compliance with GDPR requirements.

Adherence to Legal Standards: Compliance with charity regulations, such as those set out in the Charities Act 2011, requires consistent review and application of legal standards.

Mitigation: Professional advisors support the trustees in legal matters, and ongoing monitoring of regulatory changes ensures that the charity's operations meet legal requirements.

Building Risks

Building Maintenance and Safety: The Divine Retreat Centres in Ramsgate, Pantasaph Retreat Centre, and Darlington Centre are crucial facilities for the charity's operations, and their maintenance is essential for safe and compliant operation.

Mitigation: Regular maintenance work is carried out on these Grade II-listed buildings, supported by standing order donations and Gift Aid contributions. Comprehensive safety measures, including fire and health inspections, have been implemented. In Ramsgate, significant investments have been made in fire safety through the installation of new partition and fire doors, and the charity received a five-star rating from council inspections for food and hygiene.

Insurance Coverage for Buildings and Grounds: There is a risk associated with potential damage to buildings and grounds, which would affect the charity's ability to operate.

Mitigation: Insurance is in place for all buildings and grounds, covering potential damages. Regular reviews ensure that the insurance coverage remains aligned with Charity Commission guidance and that reserves are available for emergency repairs.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Financial review (continued)

Highest Risk Areas

The highest adverse impact risks identified include:

1. Building Maintenance and Heritage Compliance: Ensuring compliance with Grade II listing requirements and maintaining the Ramsgate and Pantasaph retreat centres to a high standard of safety and accessibility.

2. Safeguarding and Health and Safety Compliance: Working with vulnerable populations and maintaining rigorous health and safety standards across all facilities and events.

3. Financial Viability: Dependence on donations and potential for fluctuations in income underscore the need for prudent financial management and reserve planning.

Summary

Divine Television Foundation Ltd takes a proactive and comprehensive approach to risk management, covering governance, operational, financial, external, compliance, and building risks. The trustees have established robust processes and partnerships with professional advisors to maintain compliance with legal and regulatory standards, safeguard vulnerable individuals, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the charity. With effective risk mitigation strategies in place, the charity remains well-positioned to continue its mission of advancing the Catholic faith and supporting communities in the UK and abroad.

Reserves policy

The Trustees of Divine Television Foundation Ltd have established a Reserves Policy to ensure the charity maintains adequate financial stability to support its long-term mission of Evangelisation and community well-being. This policy is a fundamental component of our financial planning and risk management strategy, providing a stable foundation for the charity's ongoing operations and future projects.

Objectives of the reserves policy

1. Financial Stability for Evangelisation Programs: The primary goal of holding reserves is to secure sufficient funds to support the charity's core mission of advancing the Catholic faith through spiritual, mental, and social well-being programs for the faithful and the general public. Reserves ensure that the charity can continue to deliver these essential services without interruption, even in the face of financial uncertainties.

2. Buffer Against Income and Expenditure Fluctuations: The Trustees recognize the importance of holding reserves to protect against short-term fluctuations in income and expenditure. This buffer is essential for managing unforeseen changes in donations, grants, and operational costs, safeguarding the charity's ability to cover core expenses.

3. Capacity for Long-Term Projects: To implement long-term initiatives and projects, which may carry uncertain financial impacts, the charity requires a reserve fund. This allows for flexibility and the necessary resources to adapt to evolving financial requirements in alignment with the charity's objectives.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Financial review (continued)

Monitoring and management of reserves

Daily Cash Position Review: The Finance Office, on behalf of the Trustees, monitors the charity's cash position daily to ensure sufficient liquid funds are available for routine expenditures. This active cash management helps maintain smooth operations and provides ongoing oversight of the charity's liquidity.

Annual Review of Reserve Levels: The Trustees conduct an annual review of the charity's reserve levels to confirm that funds align with operational needs and strategic priorities. This ensures that reserve levels remain appropriate to cover essential activities, including maintenance, unexpected repairs, and contingencies.

Target reserve level

The Trustees have determined that the charity should hold reserves sufficient to cover 12 months of routine running costs. This includes:

Maintenance of Retreat Houses and Facilities: Adequate reserves ensure timely maintenance and repairs for our facilities, including retreat centres safeguarding them as safe and functional spaces for ministry activities.
Salaries and Employment Costs: Reserves cover fluctuations in income related to staffing, ensuring that salaries and related employment costs are met without disruption for up to one year.
Operational Contingencies: Funds are set aside to cover unforeseen expenses that may arise from ongoing projects or new initiatives, particularly in Evangelisation and outreach.

The Trustees are confident that the current reserve level provides a robust financial foundation to support the charity's ongoing mission while maintaining flexibility to adapt to future needs. This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it continues to reflect the financial and operational requirements of Divine Television Foundation Ltd.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Plans for future periods

As Divine Television Foundation Ltd looks to expand its outreach and impact, several key initiatives are planned to support the growth of our retreat center and enhance our services to the faithful community. These future plans focus on broadening our event capacity, enhancing accessibility, and securing additional resources to ensure sustainable operations and impactful programming.

Expansion of convention space

To accommodate the increasing number of devotees, we are planning to hire an auditorium in Slough, London, with a capacity of approximately 2,000 people. This venue will facilitate our large-scale gatherings, particularly on the first and second weekends of each month, which are highly anticipated by our community.
Event Schedule: Every first Friday, we will host a full day of sessions including Blessed Sacrament adoration, confessions, and a night vigil from 5 PM to 10 PM in multiple languages. On the first Saturday, we will hold a one-day convention with sessions dedicated to Bible study for children and adults, along with youth retreats. Meals, including lunch and supper, will be provided free of charge to attendees.
Current Negotiations: We are actively negotiating with the property owner for a long-term hire of 15 years, with an upfront payment required. This investment will enable us to secure a consistent venue for our events, allowing us to revive our one-day conventions, which were paused during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Acquisition of housing near the venue

With plans for long-term use of the auditorium, we aim to acquire a residence within a 200-meter radius of the venue. This house will serve as accommodation for visiting preachers, volunteers, and other staff, ensuring ease of access to the auditorium. Additionally, the residence will offer secure storage for valuable equipment and materials used for our events.

The strategic location near Heathrow Airport (just 10 minutes away) and within central Slough provides logistical advantages for traveling clergy and staff, enabling efficient and accessible travel for those supporting our ministry.

Diversified programming and language access

We plan to offer conventions and night vigils in multiple languages to reach a wider demographic. The events will include:

Children's Bible study and retreat activities, designed to engage younger audiences in faith education.
Specialized Bible study sessions for adults to deepen their understanding of scripture.
Youth-oriented retreats, addressing the specific spiritual needs of young people.
By providing multilingual programming, we aim to make our conventions accessible to people from diverse linguistic backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and unity within our community.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Increase in Clergy resources

To support our expanding schedule of retreats, conventions, and events, we are exploring options to bring additional Vincentian priests from India and other locations who are experienced in retreat preaching and ministry work. This will allow us to maintain a high standard of teaching and support for our faithful attendees.

Most of our trustees belong to the Vincentian Congregation, ensuring a shared mission and commitment to serving the community through Catholic teachings.

These initiatives reflect Divine Television Foundation's commitment to providing accessible, faith-based services and resources to the public. By expanding our physical resources, programming, and staff, we can continue to foster spiritual growth, support community members, and ensure the long-term success of our mission. Through careful planning and dedicated resources, we look forward to welcoming more people into our growing spiritual community.

Trustees' responsibilities statement

The trustees, who are also directors for the purposes of company law, are responsible for preparing the trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

Company law requires the charitable company trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:

select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP;
make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in business.

The trustees are responsible 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 assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Trustees' Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Auditor

Each of the persons who is a trustee at the date of approval of this report confirms that:

so far as they are aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditor is unaware; and
they have taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a trustee to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the charitable company's auditor is aware of that information.

Small company provisions

This report has been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entitled to the small companies exemption.

The trustees' annual report was approved and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by:

Rev Vinod George Trustee

Date: 30 October 2024

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Year ended 31 December 2023

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Divine Television Foundation Ltd (the 'charitable company') for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account), statement of financial position, statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).

In our opinion the financial statements:

give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as at 31 December 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice;
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

Basis for opinion

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charitable company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Conclusions relating to going concern

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Divine Television Foundation

Ltd (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Other information

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

We have nothing to report in this regard.

Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:

• the information given in the trustees’ report, which includes the directors’ report prepared for the purposes of company law, for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

• the directors’ report included within the trustees’ report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

Matters on which we are required to report by exception

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the charitable company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees' report.

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:

adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of trustees' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or
the trustees were not entitled to prepare the financial statements in accordance with the small companies regime and take advantage of the small companies' exemptions in preparing the directors' report and from the requirement to prepare a strategic report.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Divine Television Foundation

Ltd (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees' responsibilities statement, the trustees (who are also the directors for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, our procedures included the following:

We enquired of management, which included obtaining and reviewing supporting documentation, concerning the charitable company's policies and procedures relating to:
Identifying, evaluating, and complying with laws and regulations and whether they were aware of any instances of non-compliance;
Detecting and responding to the risks of fraud and whether they have knowledge of any actual, suspected, or alleged fraud;
The internal controls established to mitigate risks related to fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Divine Television Foundation

Ltd (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

We inspected the minutes of meetings of those charged with governance.
We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that the charitable company operates in, focusing on those laws and regulations that had a material effect on the financial statements or that had a fundamental effect on the operations of the charitable company from our professional and sector experience.
We communicated applicable laws and regulations throughout the audit team and remained alert to any indications of noncompliance throughout the audit.
We reviewed any reports made to regulators.
We reviewed the financial statement disclosures and tested these to supporting documentation to assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
We performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud.
In addressing the risk of fraud through management override of controls, we tested the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments, assessed whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias and tested significant transactions that are unusual or those outside the normal course of business.

Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or noncompliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor’s report.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Divine Television Foundation

Ltd (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

Other matter

The financial statements for Divine Television Foundation Ltd for the year ended 31 December 2022 were not audited.

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitable company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.

Mijos Xavier FCCA (Senior Statutory Auditor)

For and on behalf of Xaviers Accountants Limited Chartered Certified Accountants & statutory auditor

Suite 3J Recycling Lives Centre 1A Essex Street Preston PR1 1QE

Date: 30 October 2024

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Statement of Financial Activities (including income and expenditure account)

Year ended 31 December 2023

		2023		2022
		Unrestricted
		fundsTotal funds		Total funds
	Note	£	£	£
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies	5	1,312,569	1,312,569	520,449
Charitable activities	6	61,262	61,262	–
Investment income	7	122	122	116
		`────────────`	`────────────`	`─────────`
Total income		1,373,953	1,373,953	520,565
		`════════════`	`════════════`	`═════════`
Expenditure
Expenditure on charitable activities	8,9	(551,923)	(551,923)	(528,854)
		`────────────`	`────────────`	`─────────`
Total expenditure		(551,923)	(551,923)	(528,854)
		`════════════`	`════════════`	`═════════`
		`────────────`	`────────────`	`─────────`
Net income/(expenditure) and net movement in funds		822,030	822,030	(8,289)
		`════════════`	`════════════`	`═════════`
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward		2,781,992	2,781,992	2,790,281
		`────────────`	`────────────`	`────────────`
Total funds carried forward		3,604,022	3,604,022	2,781,992
		`════════════`	`════════════`	`════════════`

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

The notes on pages 25 to 33 form part of these financial statements.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Statement of Financial Position

31 December 2023

		2023	2022
	Note	£	£
Fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets	15	2,466,547	2,381,197
Current assets
Debtors	16	30,072	20,000
Cash at bank and in hand		1,539,766	844,353
		`────────────`	`─────────`
		1,569,838	864,353
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year	17	(32,363)	(63,558)
		`────────────`	`─────────`
Net current assets		1,537,475	800,795
		`────────────`	`────────────`
Total assets less current liabilities		4,004,022	3,181,992
Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year	18	(400,000)	(400,000)
		`────────────`	`────────────`
Net assets		3,604,022	2,781,992
		`════════════`	`════════════`
Funds of the charity
Unrestricted funds		3,604,022	2,781,992
		`────────────`	`────────────`
Total charity funds	20	3,604,022 `════════════`	2,781,992 `════════════`

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime.

These financial statements were approved by the board of trustees and authorised for issue on and are signed on behalf of the board by:

Rev Vinod George Trustee

Date: 30 October 2024

The notes on pages 25 to 33 form part of these financial statements.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Statement of Cash Flows

Year ended 31 December 2023

	2023	2022
	£	£
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income/(expenditure)	822,030	(8,289)
Adjustments for:
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets	6,694	6,348
Other interest receivable and similar income	(122)	(116)
Accrued (income)/expenses	(15,828)	11,727
Changes in:
Trade and other debtors	20,000	1,785
Trade and other creditors	(45,439)	403,805
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Cash generated from operations	787,335	415,260
Interest received	122	116
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Net cash from operating activities	787,457	415,376
	`═════════`	`═════════`
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of tangible assets	(92,044)	(512,083)
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Net cash used in investing activities	(92,044)	(512,083)
	`═════════`	`═════════`
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	695,413	(96,707)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	844,353	941,060
	`────────────`	`─────────`
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	1,539,766	844,353
	`════════════`	`═════════`

The notes on pages 25 to 33 form part of these financial statements.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements

Year ended 31 December 2023

1. General information

The charitable company is a public benefit entity and a private company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales and a registered charity in England and Wales. The address of the registered office is Divine Retreat Centre UK, St Augustine's Abbey, St. Augustine's Road, Ramsgate, Kent, CT11 9PA, England.

2. Statement of compliance

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 Companies Act 2006.

3. Accounting policies

Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, as modified by the revaluation of certain financial assets and liabilities and investment properties measured at fair value through income or expenditure.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity.

Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty

In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

There are judgements and accounting estimates made in the calculation of accruals and prepayments, in determining rates of depreciation of tangible fixed assets, in estimating realisable values of tangible fixed assets, in the allocation of internal funding to designated fixed asset funds, and in estimating provisions against the recovery of bad or doubtful debts. Such estimates and judgements are made based on previous experience of the charity and are supported by professional specialist advice where this is appropriate.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where ethe revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

3. Accounting policies (continued)

Income tax

The charity benefits from various exemptions from taxation afforded by tax legislation and is not liable to corporation tax on income or gains falling within those exemptions. Irrecoverable VAT is charged against the category of expenditure for which it was incurred.

Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees to further any of the charity's purposes.

Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for particular 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.

Incoming resources

All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial 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. The following specific policies are applied to particular categories of income:

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.
legacy income is recognised when receipt is probable and entitlement is established.
income from donated goods is measured at the fair value of the goods unless this is impractical to measure reliably, in which case the value is derived from the cost to the donor or the estimated resale value. Donated facilities and services are recognised in the accounts when received if the value can be reliably measured. No amounts are included for the contribution of general volunteers.
income from contracts for the supply of services is recognised with the delivery of the contracted service. This is classified as unrestricted funds unless there is a contractual requirement for it to be spent on a particular purpose and returned if unspent, in which case it may be regarded as restricted.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

3. Accounting policies (continued)

Resources expended

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is classified under headings of the statement of financial activities to which it relates:

expenditure on raising funds includes the costs of all fundraising activities, events, non-charitable trading activities, and the sale of donated goods.
expenditure on charitable activities includes all costs incurred by a charity in undertaking activities that further its charitable aims for the benefit of its beneficiaries, including those support costs and costs relating to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitable activities.
other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related to raising funds for the charity nor part of its expenditure on charitable activities.

All costs are allocated to expenditure categories reflecting the use of the resource. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs are apportioned between the activities they contribute to on a reasonable, justifiable and consistent basis.

Tangible assets

Tangible assets are initially recorded at cost, and subsequently stated at cost less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. All equipment, fixtures and fittings with an original cost of less than £1,000 are written off in the year in which the expenditure was incurred on the basis that due to the nature of the charity's activities, there is no expectation that the costs of the assets will be recovered in the way of future revenues.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Freehold land and buildings - Not depreciated

Plant and machinery - 25% Reducing balance

Fixtures and fittings - 25% Reducing balance

Equipment - 25% Reducing balance

The trustees are of the opinion that a depreciation charge for the Land and buildings is not required as the buildings are maintained and the expenditure to maintain the buildings is reflected in the income and expenditure account. The buildings are also considered to have a useful life of more than 50 years, so any depreciation charge is considered immaterial.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

3. Accounting policies (continued)

Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the assets is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

Financial instruments

Financial instruments are recognised in the balance sheet when the Charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value. Basic financial assets held at amortised costs include debtors, other debtors and cash and bank balance. Basic financial liabilities held at amortised costs include all creditors except social security and other taxes.

Defined contribution plans

Contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an expense in the period in which the related service is provided. Prepaid contributions are recognised as an asset to the extent that the prepayment will lead to a reduction in future payments or a cash refund.

When contributions are not expected to be settled wholly within 12 months of the end of the reporting date in which the employees render the related service, the liability is measured on a discounted present value basis. The unwinding of the discount is recognised as an expense in the period in which it arises.

4. Limited by guarantee

Divine Television Foundation Limited is a company limited by guarantee and accordingly does not have a share capital. Every member of the company undertakes to contribute such amount as may be required not exceeding £1 to the assets of the charitable company in the event of its being wound up while he or she is a member, or within one year after he or she ceases to be a member.

5. Donations and legacies

	Unrestricted	Total Funds	Unrestricted	Total Funds
	Funds	2023	Funds	2022
	£	£	£	£
Donations
Donations	1,310,045	1,310,045	520,449	520,449
Gift aid receivable	2,524	2,524	–	–
	`────────────`	`────────────`	`─────────`	`─────────`
	1,312,569	1,312,569	520,449	520,449
	`════════════`	`════════════`	`═════════`	`═════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

6. Charitable activities

		Unrestricted	Total Funds	Unrestricted	Total Funds
		Funds	2023	Funds	2022
		£	£	£	£
	Income from charitable activities -
	registration fees etc	61,262	61,262	–	–
		`════════`	`════════`	`════`	`════`
7.	Investment income
		Unrestricted	Total Funds	Unrestricted	Total Funds
		Funds	2023	Funds	2022
		£	£	£	£
	Bank interest receivable	122	122	116	116
		`════`	`════`	`════`	`════`
8.	Expenditure on charitable activities	by fund type
		Unrestricted	Total Funds	Unrestricted	Total Funds
		Funds	2023	Funds	2022
		£	£	£	£
	Divine Retreat Centres	525,546	525,546	472,546	472,546
	Support costs	26,377	26,377	56,308	56,308
		`─────────`	`─────────`	`─────────`	`─────────`
		551,923	551,923	528,854	528,854
		`═════════`	`═════════`	`═════════`	`═════════`
9.	Expenditure on charitable activities	by activity type
		Activities
		undertaken		Total funds	Total fund
		directly	Support costs	2023	2022
		£	£	£	£
	Divine Retreat Centres	525,546	19,177	544,723	528,854
	Governance costs	–	7,200	7,200	–
		`─────────`	`────────`	`─────────`	`─────────`
		525,546	26,377	551,923	528,854
		`═════════`	`════════`	`═════════`	`═════════`

10. Analysis of support costs

	Analysis of
	support costs
	activity	Total 2023	Total 2022
	£	£	£
Communications and IT	6,114	6,114	15,028
General office	13,063	13,063	41,280
Governance costs	7,200	7,200	–
	`────────`	`────────`	`────────`
	26,377	26,377	56,308
	`════════`	`════════`	`════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

11. Net income/(expenditure)

Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):

	Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):
		2023	2022
		£	£
	Depreciation of tangible fixed assets	6,694	6,348
		`═══════`	`═══════`
12.	Auditors remuneration
		2023	2022
		£	£
	Fees payable for the audit of the financial statements	7,200 `═══════`	– `════`

13. Staff costs

The total staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as	The total staff costs and employee benefits for the reporting period are analysed as	follows:
	2023	2022
	£	£
Wages and salaries	115,383	91,582
Employer contributions to pension plans	595	385
	`─────────`	`────────`
	115,978	91,967
	`═════════`	`════════`

The average head count of employees during the year was 9 (2022: 10).

No employee received employee benefits of more than £60,000 during the year (2022: Nil).

14. Trustee remuneration and expenses

The key management personnel of the Charity comprises the trustees. During the year, three trustees (2022: Two trustees) received remuneration for their service as Spiritual/Pastoral Care provider: Rev. Lijo Joseph: £12,215 (2022: £12,215), Rev. Vinod George:£15,000 (2022: £8,750), Rev. Sudhin Paulose: £5,926.38(2022: £Nil). The Trustees do not receive remuneration for their work as Trustees. There were no trustee's expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2023 (2022: £Nil).

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

15. Tangible fixed assets

	Freehold	Plant and	Fixtures and
	property	machinery	fittings	Equipment	Total
	£	£	£	£	£
Cost
At 1 January 2023	2,362,154	82,527	46,043	11,377	2,502,101
Additions	84,319	–	7,725	–	92,044
	`────────────`	`────────`	`────────`	`────────`	`────────────`
At 31 December 2023	2,446,473	82,527	53,768	11,377	2,594,145
	`════════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════════`
Depreciation
At 1 January 2023	–	77,518	36,760	6,626	120,904
Charge for the year	–	1,253	4,253	1,188	6,694
	`────────────`	`────────`	`────────`	`────────`	`────────────`
At 31 December 2023	–	78,771	41,013	7,814	127,598
	`════════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════════`
Carrying amount
At 31 December 2023	2,446,473	3,756	12,755	3,563	2,466,547
	`════════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════════`
At 31 December 2022	2,362,154	5,009	9,283	4,751	2,381,197
	`════════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════`	`════════════`

The charity owns four freehold properties and these are situated as follows:

St. Augustines Abbey, St Augustines Road, Ramsgate, CT11 9PA

Franciscan Friary, Monastery Road, Pantasaph, Holywell, CH8 8PE

Carmel Convent, Nunnery Lane, Darlington, DL3 9PN

11 St Benedict's Lawn, Ramsgate, Kent, CT11 9PJ

The value of freehold properties are shown at cost and are not depreciated as the trustees are of the opinion that these values are maintained by day-to-day maintenance costs incurred and any depreciation is immaterial. In the opinion of the trustees, the cost of professionally valuing these assets to include a value in the accounts outweighs the benefits to the users of the accounts.

16. Debtors

	2023	2022
	£	£
Prepayments and accrued income	30,072	20,000
	`════════`	`════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

17. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

	2023	2022
	£	£
Accruals and deferred income	28,850	14,606
Social security and other taxes	527	606
Other creditors	2,986	48,346
	`────────`	`────────`
	32,363	63,558
	`════════`	`════════`

18. Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

	2023	2022
	£	£
Loans	400,000	400,000
	`═════════`	`═════════`

Included within creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year is an amount of £400,000 (2022: £400,000) in respect of liabilities payable or repayable by instalments which fall due for payment after more than five years from the reporting date.

Loans represents a loan provided by O.F.M Capuchin GB Charitable Trust for the purchase of Land and buildings situated at Franciscan Friary, Monastery Road, Pantasaph, Holywell, CH8 8PE. This loan is interest free and secured on the freehold property. The loan is repayable in 10 equal instalments of £40,000 as from 25 February 2025 and thereafter every anniversary of that date.

19. Pensions and other post retirement benefits

Defined contribution plans

The amount recognised in income or expenditure as an expense in relation to defined contribution plans was £595 (2022: £385).

20. Analysis of charitable funds

Unrestricted funds

		At			At
	1	January 202		31	December
		3	Income	Expenditure	2023
		£	£	£	£
General funds		2,781,992	1,373,953	(551,923)	3,604,022
		`════════════`	`════════════`	`═════════`	`════════════`
		At			At
	1	January 202		31	December
		2	Income	Expenditure	2022
		£	£	£	£
General funds		2,790,281	520,565	(528,854)	2,781,992
		`════════════`	`═════════`	`═════════`	`════════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued)

Year ended 31 December 2023

21. Analysis of net assets between funds

	Unrestricted	Total Funds
	Funds	2023
	£	£
Tangible fixed assets	2,466,547	2,466,547
Current assets	1,569,838	1,569,838
Creditors less than 1 year	(32,363)	(32,363)
Creditors greater than 1 year	(400,000)	(400,000)
	`────────────`	`────────────`
Net assets	3,604,022	3,604,022
	`════════════`	`════════════`
	Unrestricted	Total Funds
	Funds	2022
	£	£
Tangible fixed assets	2,381,197	2,381,197
Current assets	864,353	864,353
Creditors less than 1 year	(63,558)	(63,558)
Creditors greater than 1 year	(400,000)	(400,000)
	`────────────`	`────────────`
Net assets	2,781,992	2,781,992
	`════════════`	`════════════`

22. Financial instruments

The carrying amount for each category of financial instrument is as follows:

	2023	2022
	£	£
Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised	cost
Financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised
cost	1,569,838	864,353
	`════════════`	`═════════`
Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost	431,836	462,952
	`═════════`	`═════════`

23. Analysis of changes in net debt

					At
	At	1	Jan 2023	Cash flows	31 Dec 2023
			£	£	£
Cash at bank and in hand			844,353	695,413	1,539,766
			`═════════`	`═════════`	`════════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Management Information

Year ended 31 December 2023

The following pages do not form part of the financial statements.

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Detailed Statement of Financial Activities

Year ended 31 December 2023

	2023	2022
	£	£
Income and endowments
Donations and legacies
Donations	1,310,045	520,449
Gift aid receivable	2,524	–
	`────────────`	`─────────`
	1,312,569	520,449
	`────────────`	`─────────`
Charitable activities
Income from charitable activities - registration fees etc	61,262	–
	`────────`	`────`
Investment income
Bank interest receivable	122	116
	`────`	`────`
	`────────────`	`─────────`
Total income	1,373,953	520,565
	`════════════`	`═════════`
Expenditure
Expenditure on charitable activities
Retreat Centre costs - groceries and food expenses, ministry equipment	(56,175)	(39,258)
Wages and salaries	(115,383)	(91,582)
Pension costs	(595)	(385)
Rent	(2,300)	–
Rates and water	(24,185)	(11,746)
Light and heat	(119,276)	(92,740)
Repairs and maintenance	(93,664)	(133,608)
Insurance	(49,467)	(39,394)
Vehicle leasing/hire	–	(857)
Other motor/travel costs	(32,349)	(31,394)
Legal and professional fees	(22,844)	(41,066)
Telephone	(4,860)	(3,226)
Other office costs	(24,131)	(37,251)
Depreciation	(6,694)	(6,347)
	`────────────`	`─────────`
	(551,923)	(528,854)
	`────────────`	`─────────`
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Total expenditure	(551,923)	(528,854)
	`═════════`	`═════════`
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Net income/(expenditure)	822,030	(8,289)
	`═════════`	`═════════`

Divine Television Foundation Ltd

Company Limited by Guarantee

Notes to the Detailed Statement of Financial Activities

Year ended 31 December 2023

	2023	2022
	£	£
Expenditure on charitable activities
Divine Retreat Centres
*Activities undertaken directly*
Retreat Centre costs - groceries and food expenses, ministry equipments	(56,175)	(39,258)
Wages/salaries	(115,383)	(91,582)
Pension costs	(595)	(385)
Rent	(2,300)	–
Rates & water	(24,185)	(11,746)
Light & heat	(119,276)	(92,740)
Repairs & maintenance	(93,664)	(133,608)
Insurance	(49,467)	(39,394)
Motor and travelling costs	(32,349)	(31,394)
Charitable donations	(9,275)	(6,990)
Telecommunications	(4,860)	(3,226)
General office costs	(18,017)	(22,223)
	`─────────`	`─────────`
	(525,546)	(472,546)
	`─────────`	`─────────`
*Support costs*
Advertising	–	(857)
Legal and professional fees	(6,369)	(34,076)
Office costs including computer running expenses	(6,114)	(15,028)
Depreciation	(6,694)	(6,347)
	`────────`	`────────`
	(19,177)	(56,308)
	`────────`	`────────`
Governance costs
Governance costs - audit fees	(7,200)	–
	`───────`	`────`
	`─────────`	`─────────`
Expenditure on charitable activities	(551,923)	(528,854)
	`═════════`	`═════════`