Trustees’ Annual Report for the period
From 1 September 2020 Period start date To 31 August 2021 Period end date Charity name: Olden Community Garden
Charity registration number: 1158105
Objectives and Activities
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document |
Para 1.17 | The objects of the CIO are to promote for the benefit of those people living or working in the London Borough of Islington a community garden and associated facilities to advance education and for the purposes of recreation or other leisure time occupation of individuals who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disability, financial hardship or social and economic circumstances or for the public at large in the interests of social welfare and with the object of improving their condition of life. |
| Summary of the main activities in relation to those purposesfor the public benefit,in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. |
Para 1.17 and 1.19 |
Olden Community Garden was created in 1986 when a group of residents successfully campaigned to rescue a derelict railway embankment and turn it into a community garden. Over the years, the site has become a significant asset for the local community. Islington has less green space than any other London borough, and our garden and woodland form an important wildlife habitat. Olden Garden contains the largest area of woodland in the Borough and is one of the largest community managed open spaces in north London. The Borough recognises the importance of Olden Community Garden to the area and has designated it Grade 1 SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation). Olden Community Garden is normally open to the public at least 55 times a year, though this was adversely affected by Covid restrictions during the year under review. We continued to be open to our growing membership and their guests from dawn until dusk every day. For much of the year we suspended our volunteer workdays and general openings to the |
| public due to government Covid19 social distancing guidelines and advice from the London Borough of Islington. During the same period, we saw a significant increase in membership and in usage by members and their families and friends. Olden Community Garden is largely maintained by volunteers, members and non-members, with the support of two part-time gardeners who are advisers to the Committee. Members who have the entry code can drop in at any time for volunteer gardening or to enjoy the garden and woodland. Our part-time gardeners are present one day per week to guide and encourage our volunteers. In addition, our monthly volunteer gardening Saturday attracts up to 25 volunteers who come along to make new friends and learn more about Olden Community Garden. From the significant increase in usage during the year, it is clear that many more people are benefitting from the recreational aspects provided by Olden Community Garden. Walking, sitting, reading in the garden and woodland, enjoying the peace and quiet, looking at our flowers, are all much appreciated and contribute to the wellbeing of local people. Following the re-configuration of the lawn we have a large area that is being re- paved to provide us with a second accessible patio. |
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| Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit |
Para 1.18 | The Trustees were satisfied that the activities of Olden Community Garden met the objectives as set out in the constitution, and the requirement of public benefit. We continue to be guided by the requirement of public benefit as we plan our future programme of work and activities in Olden Community Garden. |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
SORP reference N/A Para 1.38 Policy on grant making N/A Para 1.38
| Policy on social investment including program related investment |
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|---|---|---|
| Contribution made by volunteers |
Para 1.38 | Olden Community Garden encourages volunteers to get involved in gardening to help reduce isolation and improve wellbeing. During the year some 50 volunteers supported the charity in many ways, including working in Olden Community Garden and with administration of the Charity. |
| Other |
Achievements and Performance
| SORP reference | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity’s work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. |
Para 1.20 | During the 12 months of the review year, Covid had a major effect on the lives of our local community and on Olden Community Garden. It created major challenges for us as a community-managed open space, our engagement with members and volunteers, our fundraising activity, our relationship with neighbours. We experienced a significant increase in usage during lockdowns. We have been a much appreciated resource for individuals and family groups who have no garden. We are hugely grateful to our Trustees, members and volunteers for their support during this challenging year. A major achievement was to reconfigure the bottom half of our lawn. We created a small sleeper-based wall which has extended the social area around the Garden House and has taken the pressure of footfall from the lawn. We raised the soil level behind the wall to flatten out the slope and improve water retention. New turf was laid with the help of volunteers and a new rose bed planted. But we will need to combat the deleterious influence of the eucalyptus tree, its thirst for rainwater and its insidious leaves, and be attentive to the lawn to make sure it thrives. The reconfiguration has provided us with a second accessible patio area which will be paved in the coming year. With the harvested water from the Roundhouse roof and use of the irrigation system on the long border, we have had no drought problems this year. We produced much of our own compost by sieving our annual leaf-fall and turning it into cutting and seed compost. Other green waste |
materials were incorporated into dead hedges and other eco-heaps. In the woodland we addressed the longstanding problem of dead and dying trees/saplings, several of which had fallen. Following inspection by an officer from Islington Council’s parks department, he gave us permission to arrange for The London Tree Company to fell over 20 dead and dangerous saplings. The officer also confirmed that the silver birch which gives concern to neighbours is in good condition and that we would not be permitted to lop the eucalyptus. With our greenhouse, Olden Garden continued to be a hub for community vegetable growing. Lynne and other volunteers continued their work on the vegetable terraces, encouraging and educating groups of parents and children, creating a source of seeds and plants for community groups throughout Islington, and providing pots to help families to grow plants on their window sills. They provided the inspiration for local people who want to make gardening and greenery part of the local scenery. This was another good year in our orchard, especially for apples, many of which we juiced, and for apricots; however, the plums and greengages were disappointing. In our meadow we found cowslips, ox-eye daisies and golden rod throughout their seasons. We invited local communities and individuals to take some of the small trees that we have been nurturing in pots since they were donated by the Woodland Trust through the Mayor of London’s tree programme. Other trees are being planted out in our woodland. The old leaky gazebo was taken down and a new wooden shelter built in its place. We are extremely grateful to Jill for her gift to Olden Garden. Post lockdown, volunteer gardening days resumed in April, on Tuesdays and on the third Saturday every month, with Covid safety measures in place. We appreciate the support of our regular volunteers and a few new ones, and hope soon to encourage others from the wider community to come and help our parttime gardeners. We were sorry, after ten years, to say goodbye to our part-time gardeners Laura and Andrew. We can’t thank them enough for all their hard work over the years and wish them well.
We also saw some changes in the Garden’s trustees, with Susie and Gary stepping down. We also saw the retirement of Anna, after over 20 years involvement; she has been a true champion of community gardening and we have valued her education over the years. Our trustees have worked hard during the most difficult time in our history; we have survived and will bloom again over the coming year. At the end of August we had 370 members, our highest ever total. We appreciated their support in moving smoothly from cash to on-line payment of membership subscriptions. Through our new membership forms we enabled members to give us permission to claim Gift Aid on their donations/subscriptions; the extra income is much appreciated. The introduction of a pin code access, instead of keys, on the door has been a great success and we thank all our members for their cooperation. We appreciated the excellent response from our members who completed our on-line member survey, giving us useful information. The most liked aspects of Olden Community Garden are: peace and quiet, walking in the woodland, birds and birdsong, flowers in bloom. About half of our members brought children with them, while many brought people aged 75+. Our woodland and garden appeal to people of all ages. To keep our members updated, we send Newsletters via our Mailchimp database. In July, after many months of Covid restrictions, we starting accepting bookings for the Garden House, with nine events taking place by the end of August. Income from bookings was very low this year as a result, but we are very pleased that the increased income from member subscriptions and donations has more than compensated. To comply with regulations we arranged for electrical testing and certification of our electrical services, with further remedial works to continue into the coming year. Our well-maintained site, comprising 1.5 acres of woodland and garden, make a significant contribution to the biodiversity of the London Borough of Islington. We thank all our members, volunteers and neighbours for their continuing support.
| Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements |
where relevant about: |
|---|---|---|
| Achievements against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | The numbers benefitting, 2000 individuals, exceeded expectations. Despite the unpredictable Covid restrictions a small group of members continued to volunteer in Covid-safe way, maintaining Olden Garden. |
| Performance of fundraising activities against objectives set |
Para 1.41 | Due to Covid restrictions our normal public open days and fundraising activities could not take place. |
| Investment performance against objectives |
Para 1.41 | N/A |
| Other | We were encouraged by the increase in income from membership subscriptions and donations which balanced out the loss of income due to Covid restrictions on letting out the Garden House. |
Financial Review
| Financial Review | ||
|---|---|---|
| Review of the charity’s financial position at the end of the period |
Para 1.21 | At the year end, the charity’s financial position was good. We have increased our surplus this year, in order to give us funds designated for further remedial electrical works and further works to repair the lawn, as well as work to create a new accessible patio and develop educational resources. |
| Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held |
Para 1.22 | The Trustees’ policy is to hold in reserve a minimum of three months running costs. These are defined as: gardening services; gardening supplies and equipment; garden house and toilet facilities; and general administration. |
| Amount of reserves held | Para 1.22 | £4000 |
| Reasons for holding zero reserves |
Para 1.22 | N/A |
| Details of fund materially in deficit |
Para 1.24 | N/A |
| Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity continuing as a going concern |
Para 1.23 | N/A |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| The charity’s principal sources of funds (including any fundraising) |
Para 1.47 | Our primary sources of income include subscriptions and donations from members, and income from lettings and fundraising events. Due to Covid restrictions during the year, our income from lettings and fundraising events was significantly reduced. We received the maximum grant available from Islington Council’s Community Chest and we are grateful for their continuing support. This grant was used to secure the services of part-time gardeners who advise the Trustees and guide the volunteers in maintaining Olden Community Garden. |
|---|---|---|
| Investment policy and objectives including any social investment policy adopted |
Para 1.46 | N/A |
| A description of the principal risks facing the charity |
Para 1.46 | We are supported in risk management by the London Borough of Islington which owns the land and retains responsibility for aspects of the structural integrity of the site and maintenance of the boundary fences and walls and has an advisory role. We have undertaken a full risk assessment of our operation which is reviewed regularly, together with |
| the actions to mitigate the risks. We have public liability insurance and regularly review our policies including safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. Copies of these documents are on public display on site in the Garden House. Principal risks are: - Loss of income from bookings - Loss of experienced and/or active Trustees - Unsuccessful grant applications |
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| Other |
Structure, Governance and Management
| Description of charity’s trusts: |
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|---|---|---|
| Type of governing document (trust deed, royal charter) |
Para 1.25 |
The Constitution was agreed on 6 April 2014. Olden Community Garden gained charitable status in August 2014. |
| How is the charity constituted? (e.g unincorporated association, CIO) |
Para 1.25 | Charitable Incorporated Organisation |
| Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees |
Para 1.25 | Trustees are elected by the membership at the Annual General Meeting for a period of three years and may be co-opted. There are currently has six Trustees, including the Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. Under the Constitution, the maximum permissible number is nine. |
Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
| Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees |
Para 1.51 | Information provided by the Charity Commission is made available. Trustees receive our Risk Assessment and copies of our policies and procedures. |
|---|---|---|
| The charity’s organisational structure and any wider network with which the charity works |
Para 1.51 | Olden Community Garden is managed by its Trustees, currently six, elected by the membership and meeting as the management committee. Elected Positions include the Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. Meetings are held monthly, except in December. The charity has a simple organisational structure, with no sub- committee, though individual Trustees take lead responsibility for different aspects of running it. Olden Community Garden works closely with Islington Council which owns the land. Islington Council is responsible for aspects of the structural integrity of the site and for maintaining the boundary walls and fences, and has an advisory role. Olden Community Garden has partnerships with local community groups, to some of which we give free membership, including local children’s playgroups and community support organisations. Olden Community Garden normally participates in the Chelsea Fringe festival and in the London Square Open Gardens Weekend. |
| Relationship with any related parties |
Para 1.51 | We are supported in risk management by the London Borough of Islington which owns the land and retains responsibility for aspects of the structural integrity of the site and maintenance of the boundary fences and walls and has an advisory role. |
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| Other |
Reference and Administrative details
| Charity name | Olden Community Garden |
|---|---|
| Other name the charity uses | |
| Registered charitynumber | 1158105 |
| Charity’s principal address | Opposite no22 Whistler Street Highbury London N5 1NH |
Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 |
Trustee name | Office (if any) | Dates acted if not for whole **year ** |
Name of person (or body) entitled to appoint trustee (ifany) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terry Stacy MBE | Chair | |||
| John Croxen | Treasurer | |||
| Wendy da Silva | Trustee | |||
| Anjali Krishnan | Trustee | |||
| Jill McKeown | Trustee | |||
| Evelyn Thomas | Trustee | |||
| Susie Burrows | Trustee | Resigned 18thMay 2021 | ||
| Gary Smith | Trustee | Resigned 5 April 2021 | ||
| Anna Sullivan | Trustee | Resigned 18thMay 2021 | ||
– Corporate trustees names of the directors at the date the report was approved
Director name
Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity
Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole year
Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others
Description of the assets N/A held in this capacity Name and objects of the N/A charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects Details of arrangements for N/A safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets
Additional information (optional)
Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)
| Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information) | Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information) | Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information) |
|---|---|---|
| Type of adviser Name Address |
||
| Gardener | Laura Arison | 107 Arlington Road, London, NW1 7ET |
| Gardener | Andrew Smith | 24 Peckett Square, Highbury, London, N5 2PB |
Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)
We have no staff.
Exemptions from disclosure
Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details
Other optional information
Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.
Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees
| Signature(s) Full name(s) Position (eg Secretary, Chair, etc) Date |
Terry Stacy (approved by email) | Evelyn Thomas (approved by email) |
|---|---|---|
| Terry Stacy | Evelyn Thomas | |
Chair |
Secretary | |
| 12 April 2022 | ||
| 12 April 2022 |
| Olden Communityn Garden | 1158105 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Receipts andpayments accounts | CC16a | ||
| 01-Sep-20 For the period from |
To | 31-Aug-21 |
| Section A Receipts and payments | Section A Receipts and payments | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 Receipts | Unrestricted funds to the nearest £ - - - 2,683 6,990 1,262 109 535 11,579 - - - 11,579 2,344 894 793 936 - - - 291 320 313 781 1,619 215 - 8,506 - - - 8,506 3,073 - 9,607 12,680 |
Restricted funds to the nearest £ 5,000 - - - - - - - 5,000 - - - 5,000 5,000 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5,000 - - - 5,000 - - - - |
Endowment funds to the nearest £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
Total funds to the nearest £ 5,000 - - 2,683 6,990 1,262 109 535 16,579 - - - 16,579 7,344 894 793 936 - - - 291 320 313 781 1,619 215 - 13,506 - - - 13,506 3,073 |
Last year to the nearest £ |
|
| Islington Council CommunityChestgrant | - | 3,000 | ||||
| Islington Councilgrant | - | 748 | ||||
| Corporate donations | - | - | ||||
| Individual donations | 2,683 | 407 | ||||
| Members subscriptions | 6,990 | 4,424 | ||||
| Garden House lettings | 1,262 | 1,015 | ||||
| Fundraisingactivity | 109 | - | ||||
| Gift Aid | 535 | - | ||||
| Sub total(Gross income for AR) |
11,579 | 9,594 | ||||
| A2 Asset and investment sales, (see table). |
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| - | ||||||
| - | - | |||||
| Sub total | - | - | ||||
| Total receipts A3 Payments |
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| 9,594 | ||||||
| Gardeners fees for services | 2,344 | 7,959 | ||||
| Plants | 894 | - | ||||
| Materials,wood,compost,etc | 793 | 846 | ||||
| Gardeningtools and equipment | 936 | - | ||||
| Repairs, Improvements, & maintenance | - | 3,633 | ||||
| Volunteer work days | - | - | ||||
| Events and fundraising | - | - | ||||
| Office supplies, website,postage | 291 | 50 | ||||
| Insurance | 320 | - | ||||
| Electricity | 313 | 315 | ||||
| Electrical testingand remedial works | 781 | - | ||||
| Lawn refurbishment | 1,619 | - | ||||
| Occasional labour | 215 | - | ||||
| Miscellaneous expenses | - | 73 | ||||
| **Sub total ** | 8,506 | 12,876 | ||||
| A4 Asset and investment purchases, (see table) |
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| - | ||||||
| - | ||||||
| **Sub total ** | - | - | ||||
| Total payments Net of receipts/(payments) A5 Transfers between funds A6 Cash funds last year end Cash funds this year end |
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| 12,876 | ||||||
| 3,073 | - | 3,073 | - 3,282 | |||
| - | - | - | - | |||
| 9,607 | - | 9,607 | - | |||
| 12,680 | - | 12,680 | - 3,282 |
CCXX R1 accounts (SS)
29/03/2022
1
Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period
| Categories Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees B5 Liabilities B3 Investment assets B2 Other monetary assets B4 Assets retained for the charity’s own use B1 Cash funds CCXX R2 accounts (SS) |
Details Details Total cash funds (agree balances with receipts and payments account(s)) Details Details Details Approved byemail Signature Approved byemail ~~2~~ |
Unrestricted funds to nearest £ |
Unrestricted funds to nearest £ |
Restricted funds to nearest £ |
Restricted funds to nearest £ |
Endowment funds to nearest £ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12,680 | - | - | ||||
| - | - | - | ||||
| - | - | - | ||||
| 12,680 | - | - | ||||
| OK | ||||||
| Endowment funds to nearest £ |
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| - | ||||||
| Current value (optional) |
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| Current value (optional) |
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| When due (optional) |
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| Date of approval |
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| ~~29/03/2022~~ |
CCXX R2 accounts (SS)
~~29/03/2022~~