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2021-07-31-accounts

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

31[st] JULY 2021

Registered Charity Number 1158523

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

CONTENTS
Page
Trustees and Union Information 1 – 2
Trustees Report 3 – 14
Independent Auditors’ Report to the Members 15 – 17
Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities 18
Consolidated Balance Sheet 19
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows 20
Notes to Financial Statements 21 – 34

Page 1

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEE BOARD AND UNION INFORMATION

Charitable Status

Reading University Students’ Union (‘RUSU’) is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (company number 8840709) which was formally registered as a charity with the Charity Commission in September 2014 (registration number 1158523).

Registered Office/Principle Address

Whiteknights Campus, Pepper Lane, Reading, RG6 6EH

The Board of Trustees

The Directors of RUSU are its Trustees for the purposes of Charity Law and throughout this report are collectively referred to as the Trustees. The Trustees serving during the year and since the year end are as follows:

Officer Trustees

To 25.06.21

President (Co-Chair) Education Officer Welfare Officer Activities Officer Diversity Officer

Rachel Osbourne George Ingram Bandana Karki Alexander Rose Rachel Wates

From 26.06.21

President (Co-Chair) Education Officer Welfare Officer Activities Officer

Benjamin Knowles Bethany Nugus Grace Loweth Amy Sheffield

Student Trustees

To 26.06.21

From 29.06.20

From 26.06.21

Sheldon Allen Cait Pilkington James Wilson

Mike Phillips

Oscar Minto Benjamin Cole

External Trustees

Frances McConnell (until 26.10.20) Mark Stoddart (until 08.06.21) Jack Maddock (Co-Chair) (from 07.08.19) Debra Soper (from 26.10.20) Tim Bertram (from 26.10.20) Ray Ellison (from 26.10.20)

Page 2

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEE BOARD AND UNION INFORMATION

Auditor

Knox Cropper LLP 65 Leadenhall Street London EC3A 2AD

Bank

Barclays 4[th] Floor Apex Plaza Forbury Road Reading RG1 1AX

Solicitor

Barrett & Co. Salisbury House 54 Queens Road Reading RG1 4AZ

Reading University Students’ Union (RUSU) employees a Chief Executive, Ryan Bird, who supports the Officer Trustees and the Trustee Board. The day-to-day management of the organisation is delegated to the Chief Executive who manages RUSU by implementing the policy and strategy adopted by and within a budget approved by the Trustees and, where appropriate, advises the Trustees in relation to such policy, strategy, and budget. The Chief Executive is head of a Senior Leadership Team made up of Richard Lines (Head of Business Development & Operations), Kath Davey (Head of Student Voice & Engagement) and Gail Barclay (Head of Finance).

Page 3

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

The Board of Trustees, who act as Directors for the purposes of Company Law, present their Annual Report for the year ended 31 July 2021 which are also prepared to meet the requirements for a directors’ report and accounts for Companies Act Purposes. The administrative information is set out on pages 1 and 2, together with the audited accounts for the year.

Structure, Governance and Management

RUSU operates on democratic principles, with policy and campaigns being acted upon by the five Officer Trustees.

During the academic year full members have the opportunity to bring forward ideas for policies and campaigns using the online ‘Change It’ portal. These submissions are reviewed in the first instance by the Ideas Feasibility Group, discussed at Management Committee and referred to the Trustee Board as necessary.

Policy and Campaigns submissions that are eligible are then put to an online vote. The policy that exceeds quorum and receives the highest number of votes becomes RUSU Policy for two years. The Officer Trustees are mandated to campaign on the winning campaign for at least two years or until the campaign aim is achieved.

Governance

RUSU is constituted under the Education Act and the Regulations of the University of Reading. The primary aim of RUSU is the advancement of education of students at the University of Reading for the public benefit. RUSU is governed by its Memorandum & Articles of Association (Constitution) and supporting Bye Laws.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the strategic direction, governance and financial sustainability of RUSU. The Board is made up of five Officer Trustees, four Student Trustees and up to four External Trustees. The Officer Trustees and two of the Student Trustees are elected by and from the students of the University of Reading each year, through a crosscampus secret ballot, and serve in office for one year.

The External Trustees and the remaining two Student Trustees are recruited to the Board and are recommended to the Board by the Appointments Committee. The External Trustees are recruited to the Board to bring a wider perspective and skill set from outside RUSU. A term in office for an External Trustee lasts for up to three years and they may be reappointed for a second term up to a maximum total of six years.

The Student Trustees are appointed for a term in office of one year and they must be registered students for the duration of their term in office. They are selected on the basis of their skills, knowledge and experience, taking into account the demographics of the elected student Board members. Student Trustees can be appointed for a second year.

Upon appointment, all trustees receive an induction, which includes their legal obligations and other trustee responsibilities and is tailored according to their knowledge and experience. The Officer Trustees receive a more intensive and in-depth induction and training programme as they have a variety of responsibilities in the Students’ Union, University and local community in addition to their unpaid Trustee roles.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

The Trustee Board has overall responsibility for the effective governance of the organisation. Trustees are collectively responsible for the following key decisions:

The Board of Trustees is supported in its work by its sub-committees which meet regularly throughout the year. The main committees and their roles are:

Page 5

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

More operational decisions are delegated to the Management Committee which consists of the Officer Trustees and members of the Senior Management Team by invitation.

The Trustee Board has overall governance responsibility for the charity with Co-Chairs acting as line manager for the Chief Executive (senior staff member). The core functions of RUSU alongside its fund-raising activities are managed and run by a team of experienced and dedicated staff who work towards fulfilling the organisation’s charitable objects. A number of departments also employ teams of student staff which alongside providing valuable income and employability skills for students also ensure that our services remain student focused.

Relationship with Subsidiary Companies

Little Learners at RUSU Ltd (company number 03723877) and RUSU Trading Limited (company number 08308331) are both limited liability companies wholly owned by Reading University Students’ Union. Little Learners at RUSU Ltd operates a day nursery which provides childcare for students and staff at the University of Reading. With effect from January 2021, the Nursery has also been marketed to the wider community. RUSU Trading Limited operates a number of services for non-students which are classed as non-primary purpose trading.

Relationship with the University of Reading

Under the Education Act 1994, the University of Reading has a statutory duty to take such steps as are reasonably practicable to ensure that RUSU operates in a fair and democratic manner and is held to account for its finances. A code of practice within the University Calendar governs the formal interaction between the two organisations. RUSU is also required to seek University Council approval, through the Student Experience Committee for any changes to its Memorandum and Articles of Association (Constitution), its budget, audited accounts and Officer Trustee elections report.

Relationship with the National Union of Students

RUSU is a member of the NUS and pays an annual affiliation fee to access training, resources and centrally negotiated purchasing agreements. RUSU, where appropriate works, with the NUS in pursuit of some of its charitable objects mainly related to campaigning on national student issues.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Financial Review

The Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities (page 18) outlines the income and expenditure for RUSU during the financial year of 2020-21. Total income was £3,357k (201920: £4,382k) and total expenditure before movement in Pension Deficit was £3,092k (2019-20: £4,425k), resulting in a surplus of £264k. When including movement in Pension Deficit, RUSU has reported an overall surplus of £324k for 2020-21 (2019-20: £558k deficit).

COVID-19 had a significant impact on our operations throughout 2020-21, with the majority of our commercial areas closed for parts of the year or operating at reduced capacity.

The Student Social Venues and Events had reported a deficit of £539k, largely due limited events (including the summer ball) taking place. Income was £507k (2019-20: £1,180k) and expenditure of £1,046k (2019-20: £1,443k). Despite running at a loss the decision was made to continue operating student social venues and events where possible to support the wider student experience.

The Business Development department, which focuses on generating new income from the RUSU facilities delivered an income level of £78k (2019-20: £164k). Overall, the department delivered a deficit of £22k (2019-20: £10k surplus). The income for the Marketing and Sponsorship department was £31k (2019-20: £33k) but the contribution to Overhead Support resulted in a deficit for the year of £198k (2018-19: £259k). A significantly reduced freshers period contributed to the lower income levels in this area.

Little Learners Nursery improved its position following several challenging years. A surplus of £74k (2019-20: 31k deficit) when including the management charge levied by RUSU. The nursery is now seeing the benefit of the staffing restructure that was undertaken in 2019-20. COVID has continued to make the management of this area particularly challenging and so the positive financial result is credit to the team delivering this service.

The net cost of Student Activities groups was £346k (2019-20: £524k). The support offered in terms of Student Democracy and Representation and Advice Services also decreased in cost due in staffing shortages.

The Support Services department, which provides the majority of non-student facing activities and ensures the organisation is able to effectively support its members. The department reduced its costs to £825k (2020-21: 1,204k) with a number of factors contributing to this including staffing shortages and less activity due to COVID.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Reserves Policy

The RUSU Reserves Policy is reviewed on a periodic basis by the Finance Committee and any recommendations for change are discussed at Trustee Board level. The policy states that RUSU should hold reserves equivalent to three months operating expenses which equates to approximately £550k.

The current level of net current assets is £2,531k (2019-20: £2,204k) which does not take into account the Fixed Assets of £504k (2019-20: 620k) as these are only accessible following the sale of these assets. The inclusion of the overall pension deficit and the outstanding loans to the University reduce the overall net assets to £1,270k (2019-20: 946k).

The General Reserve amounts to £1,986k and Restricted Funds amount to £15k. Designated Reserves are made up of the following: Student Activity Groups balances, funds set aside for development of the building and the funds tied up in existing fixed assets. There is also a negative designated pension reserve representing the long-term pension deficit provision. In total, these leave a negative reserve of £730k.

The current level of the general reserve is above target. This figure is monitored by the Finance Committee and planned expenditure, such as the RUSU contribution toward the costs of the building developments are designated from this excess to ensure that we are able to continually improve the quality of the services and facilities we provide to the membership. This will be reviewed in 2021-22.

Funding

A significant funding source is the University of Reading which provides a grant payment each year based on student numbers, a Retail Price Index calculation and the inclusion of any additional funds to cover special projects. The total grant for the current year is £1,555k and this income is used alongside the surplus from Charitable Activities to provide support, services and extra-curricular activities for Reading students in line with our Charitable Objects. This is the final year of additional funding agreed as part of the closure of RUSU’s retail unit.

Investments

The RUSU Investments Policy which was agreed during the 2015/16 financial year and has the following investment objectives:

Environmental Investment Policy

The policy includes a commitment to investing responsibly to ensure that the student membership is satisfied that the funds are being invested in line with our commitment to ensuring high standards of ethical and environmental behaviour. The policy is based on negative screening model to exclude companies, such as tobacco, arms and fossil fuels, that RUSU either has policy against or are not in line with our Ethical & Environmental policy.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Pension Liabilities

The defined benefit pension provision is included on the Balance Sheet to comply with the Charities SORP (FRS 102). The overall impact of this inclusion is a liability of £1,472k (2019-20: £1,824k. Despite the inclusion of this substantial amount the considerable level of the accumulated reserves, noted above, ensure that RUSU remains a going concern.

Risk Management

The Board of Trustees reviews the major strategic, operational and reputational risks faced by the organisation on an annual basis or as required. The Risk Management Policy notes the major risks and identifies both their probability and likely impact on the organisation. On behalf of the Trustees, senior managers regularly review major risks and mitigating measures.

In 2020-21 the Trustee Board has continued to respond to the impact of COVID-19 on RUSU and its sustainability. During this period a significant focus has been on continuing to deliver services for members.

Financial and control risks are mitigated through a robust budget management process and supporting Financial Procedures for the authorisation and processing of transactions. Procedures are also in place to ensure the health and safety of staff, volunteers and participants in all activities organised by RUSU. The Trustees believe that all major risks are appropriately addressed. The Risk Register is reviewed at each Finance & Risk Committee and annually at the Trustee Board.

Aims, Objectives and Activities

The primary aim of RUSU is the advancement of education of students at the University of Reading for the public benefit. RUSU achieves this through:

In order to achieve these aims RUSU focuses on its mission and values.

RUSU is a student-led charity which exists to support students and enhance their University experience.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Public Benefit Statement

The Trustees have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity’s aims and objectives and in planning future activities. The three-year Strategic Operating Plan created and approved by the Trustee Board is based on the organisation’s Charitable Objects.

RUSU provides a variety of services and activities for students including:

Student Advice

RUSU provides a free and confidential specialist advice service to our members in the areas of Academic, Housing and Money issues. The level of demand continues to increase in all areas with a particular focus on Academic issues. The Advice Service continued to operate a virtual service in 2020/21, providing advice via email, telephone and Teams. They are looking at resuming face to face provision in the 2021/22 academic year.

The team are professionally trained staff and members of a number of professional bodies including: Advice UK, National Association of Student Money Advisers (NASMA), and National Homelessness Advice Service (NHAS). The Money Advisers undertake relevant training to ensure that they meet the Money Advice Standards (MAS) relating to debt advice.

The Advice Service was initially awarded the Advice Quality Standard (AQS) in 2013 and has maintained this accreditation to date, with the next reassessment due in January 2022. The AQS is awarded to organisations who give advice to members of the public on legal issues and is reassessed every two years. The Advice Service is also registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, which enables it to provide debt advice to students.

During 2020/21 our advisers supported 250 Postgraduate students and 687 undergraduate students and students 977 in total. Overall, the impact of the service meant that students were better off by just over £101k. The Advice Service responded to 1,266 emails via their email address or their online client form.

Advice cases opened in 2020/21 fall in to three main categories:

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Student Activities

RUSU provides support and funding to a diverse mix of activity groups which range from traditional sports and student media to cultural and academic societies. Overall, 1,185 students were involved in sports, 1,548 in societies, 279 in volunteering to support 20 projects. 46 students were involved in Student Media and 38 signed up to help RAG and their fundraising projects. This was a significant decrease across sport, society and media memberships but interestingly an increase for RAG and volunteering memberships.

The largest groups of students amongst societies were signed up to our Academic & Career groups as usual with over 600 but they were fairly closely followed by the Culture & Faith and Hobbies & Interests groups; each with close to 450 students involved. Societies were hit the hardest through restrictions as no university rooms were able to be booked for them for the entirety of the academic year. Only online activity could go ahead. Sports were more fortunate as outdoor activity was permitted and in spring and summer even indoor sport returned with restrictions in place and NGB guidance being closely followed.

Sadly, we said goodbye to Junction11 Radio but this wasn't due to Covid. Unfortunately, no students came forward to run the station towards the end of the year (2019/20) and the station didn’t operate throughout 2020/21. An opportunity for a local community station to take over the space arose in the summer and in consultation with previous students from Junction11, they took on the space and have opportunities for student volunteers to get involved.

The Spark newspaper was not printed as the university had stipulated that papers, magazines etc should not be put out (touch points) for distribution during the pandemic. This meant the students couldn’t access the space to create the newspaper at all.

RAG managed to raise a total of £2,967 for local and national causes even with restrictions severely limiting their ability to hold events.

Representation and Campaigning

RUSU is led by a team of five full-time Officer Trustees who undertake this role after graduating or by taking a sabbatical year during their degree. The Officers listen to the views of the thousands of students on campus and represent the student voice on campus, in the local community and nationally.

Each year the Officer Trustee team develop a list of priorities based on their individual manifestos that represent the core issues for their year in Office. The Officer Trustee priorities for the 2020-21 academic year were largely reactive and focused around supporting students during the COVID pandemic, key areas are included below.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

The Officer Trustees are supported in their role by a team of Part Time Officers who represent and campaign for the rights of students who are under-represented or discriminated against.

RUSU also supports the work of 445 undergraduate and postgraduate Course Representatives alongside 48 undergraduate and postgraduate School level Representatives who are elected by their peers each year to work with the University to improve the academic experience.

Outlets and Services

RUSU provides a variety of services from many different outlets in and around the Students’ Union building. The main entertainment venues are the 3sixty venue, Café Mondial, Mojos Bar and the flexible Monterey Lounge space. These venues give RUSU an overall capacity of 2,600 people which enable the venue team to provide a wide range of student focused events from small activity group sessions to running the largest and most successful night time venue in Reading. For a significant proportion of 2020/21 many of RUSU’s entertainment venues were closed or operating a significantly reduced capacities.

The main building also includes a number of Franchise Spaces including a hairdresser, food outlets, a shop and a dissertation binding service. These facilities provide a range of services to students and also provide a consistent income stream to support the student facing facilities.

Little Learners at RUSU

RUSU also operates a 106 place nursery. The most recent Ofsted inspection rated the setting, which takes children from 3 months to 5 years, as Good.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

2020-21 Review

COVID-19 had a significant impact on RUSU during this financial year, particularly on trading activities. Given the continued challenges facing the organisation, the strategic review was put on hold and an interim operational plan was put in place.

This plan outlined the following objectives which were both used to support the navigation of COVID-19 and to ensure we continued to provide a focused service to our members. These plans were supported by an interim financial plan for the remainder of the year. Objectives were progressed via departmental and individual plans.

As part of our response to COVID-19, RUSU continued to be led by its values based approach agreed in 2019/20:

Despite the financial challenges presented by COVID-19, RUSU continued to support its members through campaigning, representation and advice services. The social aspects of student life were at points very limited but where possible activity was shifted online and RUSU took an agile approach when restrictions were lifted to get activity up and running again.

Future Plans

The year ahead includes a number of challenges and opportunities for RUSU as it continues to improve the quality and range of services it offers to an increasingly diverse membership in light of the ongoing impact of COVID-19. RUSU will undertake a full strategic review in 2021/22 with the intention of rolling out a new strategy, supported by a range of change projects including improvements to its representative structures, investment in digital infrastructure, increased staffing levels to delivery core charitable activity and a refinement of its brand and communications strategy.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

Custodian Activities

RUSU acts as a custodian for several activities

Declaration

The Trustees who held office at the date of approval of this trustees’ report confirm that they are aware of all the relevant audit information and that there is no relevant audit information which has not been supplied to the charity’s auditors.

We wish to thank all staff and volunteers at RUSU for their continued commitment and hard work to make this another successful year for our members.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

TRUSTEES REPORT

STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES

The trustees (who are also the directors of Reading University Students’ Union for the purposes of Company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice) including Financial Reporting Standard 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland". Company law and Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: -

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the governing document.

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Trustees confirm that, in the case of each of the persons who are Trustees at the date of this report, the following applies:

This report was approved by the Trustees and signed by order of the Board:

.............................................. Jack Maddock- External Trustee

……………………………….. Date

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT

Opinion

We have audited the financial statements of Reading University Students’ Union (the ‘charitable company’) for the year ended 31[st] July 2021 which comprise the consolidated statement of financial activities, the consolidated balance sheet, the consolidated statement of cash flows and notes to the financial statements, 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 Financial Reporting Standard 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:

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.

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:

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT

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 directors’ report included within 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:

Responsibilities of trustees

As explained more fully in the trustees’ responsibilities statement, the trustees (who are also the directors of the charitable company 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 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 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:

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.

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT

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.

Stephen Anderson (Senior Statutory Auditor) For and on behalf of Knox Cropper LLP, Statutory Auditor 65 Leadenhall Street London EC3A 2AD

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READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCLUDING THE INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

Note
INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Grant Income
Annual Grant
Additional Funding
Charitable Activities
Student Social Venues and Events
2
Student Activities (Clubs and
Societies)
3
Little Learners (Nursery)
4
Other Trading Activities
Franchised Space
5
Business Development
7
Commercial Trading
8
Marketing & Sponsorship
6
Interest Receivable
Other
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Charitable Activities
Student Social Venues and Events
2
Student Democracy and
Representation
9
Student Activities (Clubs and
Societies)
3
Advice Services
11
Affiliations
10
Little Learners (Nursery)
4
Raising Funds
Franchised Space
5
Marketing and Sponsorship
6
Business Development
7
Commercial Trading
8
Total Operating Expenditure
Net Operating Income/(Expenditure)
Movement in Pension Deficit
Transfers between Funds
Net Movement in Funds
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds brought Forward
Funds Carried Forward		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
1,555,577
-
507,200
14,094
679,375
32,652
78,388
-
30,875
2,108
300,900
3,201,169
1,046,441
233,383
370,235
279,097
43,301
605,682
21,313
228,925
100,545
18,335
2,947,257
253,912
-
(194,928)
58,984
1,926,913
1,985,897		 Designated
Funds
£
-
-
-
155,353
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
155,353
-
-
144,992
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
144,992
10,361
59,467
194,928
264,755
(995,041)
(730,286)		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
14,602
14,602		 Total
2021
£
1,555,577
-
507,200
169,447
679,375
32,652
78,388
-
30,875
2,108
300,900
3,356,522
1,046,441
233,383
515,227
279,097
43,301
605,682
21,313
228,925
100,545
18,335
3,092,250
264,272
59,467
-
323,739
946,474
1,270,213		 Total
2020
£
1,496,568
75,000
1,179,844
500,691
679,877
46,795
164,303
37,646
32,792
10,572
158,190
4,382,278
1,443,447
336,543
1,025,329
350,246
59,559
710,430
10,092
291,685
154,404
43,313
4,425,048
(42,770)
(515,208)
-
(557,978)
1,504,452
946,474

All transactions noted above derive from continuing operations.

A full Comparative SOFA for 2019 is included in note 31.

Page 19

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31[st] JULY 2021

Consolidated Consolidated Parent Parent
2021 2020 2021 2020
Note £ £
£		 £ £ £ £ £
Fixed Assets 14 504,069 620,083 502,672 618,688
Investments 15 - - 4 4
620,083 502,676 618,692
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks 16 95,726 113,716 95,467 112,699
Debtors 17 157,019 140,243 148,009 177,821
Cash at Bank and In
Hand 2,737,142 2,739,178 2,674,411 2,717,465
2,989,887 2,993,137 2,917,887 3,007,985
CREDITORS :
Amounts falling due
within one year 18 (459,372) (788,908) (389,586) (732,274)
NET CURRENT
ASSETS 2,530,514 2,204,229 2,528,301 2,275,711
CREDITORS :
Amounts falling due
more than one year 19 (1,764,371) (1,877,838) (1,764,371) (1,877,838)
NET ASSETS £1,270,212 £946,474 1,266,606 £1,016,565
RESERVES 26
General funds 1,985,897 1,926,913 1,982,290 1,997,000
Designated Fund (730,286) (995,041) (730,286) (995,041)
Restricted Fund 14,602 14,602 14,602 14,602
Total Reserves 1,270,212 £946,474 1,266,606 £1,016,561

These financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees on and are signed on their behalf by:

…………………………………….. R. Bird - Chief Executive

……………………………………………… Jack Maddock- External Trustee

Company Number 08840709

Page 20

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

Note
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net movement of funds for the period
Adjustments for:
Depreciation
Fixed assets written off
Loan waived
Interest received from investments
(Increase)/Decrease in Stock
(Increase)/Decrease in Debtors
Increase/(Decrease) in Pension Provision
Increase/(Decrease) in Other Creditors
Net Cash provided by Operating Activities
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Interest received from investments
Payments to acquire fixed assets
Net Cash provided by Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Loan Repaid
Additional Loans in year
Net Cash provided by Financing Activities
Change in cash and equivalents in the period
Cash and equivalents at the start of the period
Cash and equivalents at the end of the period		 2021
£
323,739
158,591
-
-
(2,108)
17,990
(16,776)
(351,514)
(37,489)
92,434
2,108
(42,577)
(40,469)
(54,000)
-
(54,000)
(2,035)
2,739,178
2,737,142		 2020
£
(557,978)
225,844
-
-
(10,572)
(22,673)
59,001
515,208
15,688
224,518
10,572
(71,937)
(61,365)
(54,000)
-
(54,000)
109,153
2,630,025
2,739,178

Page 21

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Accounting

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the recommendations of the Statement of Recommended Practice “Accounting by Charities”, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Accounting Standards, including FRS 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The Union is a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

Going Concern

The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the Charity's ability to continue as a going concern. As detailed in the Trustees Report, in forming this opinion, they have considered the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on both its income and expenditure for at least a period of twelve months from the date of approval of these financial statements.

Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost of an asset, less its estimated residual value over the useful economic life of that asset as follows:

Other Equipment
 5 – 10 years
Bars 5 – 10 years
Shops 5 – 10 years
Office and Facilities 3 – 10 years
Motor Vehicles 3 years

Stocks

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items.

Operating Lease Agreements

Rentals applicable to operating leases where substantially all of the benefits and risks of ownership remain with the lessor are charged against profits on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

Pension Costs

The Union participated in the Student Union Superannuation Scheme, a defined benefit scheme which is externally funded and contracted out of the State Second Pension. This scheme is now closed to future accrual. The fund continues to be valued at least every three years by a professionally qualified independent actuary with the rates of contribution payable in respect of the past deficit being determined by the trustees on the advice of the actuary. The scheme operates as a pooled arrangement. As a consequence, no share of the underlying assets and liabilities can be directly attributed to the Union. Under FRS 102 the discounted value of contributions payable in respect of past service deficit have been provided for.

The National Union of Students Pension Scheme (NUSPS), and the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) are defined contribution schemes and are accounted for in the year in which they are due.

Investments

Investments are stated at cost less any provision for diminution in value.

Taxation

No provision is made in these accounts for tax as the Union is entitled to the exemptions available to charities provided all income is applied for charitable purposes.

Consolidation

The Statement of Financial Activities and Balance Sheet consolidate the results of the two subsidiary companies, Little Learners @ RUSU Ltd and RUSU Trading Ltd.

Page 22

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

2. STUDENT SOCIAL VENUES AND EVENTS

INCOME
Sales
Events
Games Machines
EXPENDITURE
Cost of Sales
Direct Staff Costs
Other Direct Costs
Contribution to Overhead Support
Deficit for Year		 2021
£
506,481
297
422
507,200
293,137
367,113
135,400
250,790
1,046,441
£(539,241)		 2020
£
1,171,691
6,662
1,492
1,179,844
520,053
487,387
76,075
359,932
1,443,447
£(263,603)

Events includes Summer Ball extracted from management accounts.

3. STUDENT ACTIVITIES

INCOME
Subs and Other Self-Generated Income
Other Income
Grant Income
EXPENDITURE
Activity Groups
Other Direct Costs
Expenditure from Self Generated Income
Grant Expenditure
Contribution to Overhead Support
Net Cost		 2021
£
155,353
14,094
-
169,447
139,270
38,240
144,992
-
192,726
515,227
£(345,780)		 2020
£
460,248
32,443
8,000
500,691
247,394
96,796
393,729
19,984
267,426
1,025,329
£(524,638)

Page 23

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

4. LITTLE LEARNERS NURSERY

INCOME
Nursery Fees
Local Authority Funding
Other Income
EXPENDITURE
Permanent Staff Costs
Other Costs
Support Cost Recharge
Surplus/(Deficit) for Year		 2021
£
583,906
62,548
32,921
679,375
510,827
80,497
14,358
605,682
£73,693		 2020
£
485,921
65,719
128,237
679,877
594,979
71,319
44,132
710,430
£(30,552)

The Nursery is operated by a subsidiary company, Little Learners, which is 100% owned by Reading University Students’ Union.

5. FRANCHISE SPACE

INCOME
Rental Income
EXPENDITURE
Direct Costs
Contribution to Overhead Support
Surplus for Year		 2021
£
32,652
32,652
13,901
7,413
21,314
£11,338		 2020
£
46,795
46,795
-
10,092
10,092
£36,703

Page 24

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

6. MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP

INCOME
EXPENDITURE
Staff Costs
Other Direct Costs
Contribution to Overhead Support
Expenditure for the Year
Deficit for Year
7.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
INCOME
Freshers Fayre
Totum Cards
Other Income
EXPENDITURE
Direct Staff Costs
Other Direct Costs
Contribution to Overhead Support
Surplus/(Deficit) for Year		 2021
£
30,875
30,875
69,589
40,735
118,600
228,925
£(198,049)
2021
£
-
11,706
66,682
78,388
31,650
34,303
34,592
100,545
£(22,157)		 2020
£
32,792
32,792
102,386
17,742
171,557
291,685
£(258,893)
2020
£
34,433
15,686
114,184
164,303
14,818
89,128
50,458
154,404
£9,899

Page 25

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

8. COMMERCIAL TRADING

2021
£
INCOME
-
-
EXPENDITURE
Staff Costs
14,609
Other Direct Costs
20
Support Cost Recharge
3,706
18,335
Surplus/(deficit) for the Year
£(18,335)
9.
STUDENT DEMOCRACY AND REPRESENTATION
2021
£
INCOME
1,537
1,537
EXPENDITURE
Staff Costs
124,346
Other Direct Costs
14,830
Contribution to Overhead Support
95,745
234,921
Net Cost for the Year
£(233,384)
10.AFFILIATIONS
2021
£
EXPENDITURE
NUS Affiliation
33,081
BUCS Affiliation
10,220
43,301		 2020
£
37,646
37,646
13,609
21,294
8,410
43,313
£(5,667)
2020
£
31
31
171,347
26,468
138,759
336,574
£(336,543)
2020
£
50,408
9,151
£59,559

Page 26

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

11. ADVICE SERVICES

EXPENDITURE
Staff Costs
Other Direct Costs
Contribution to Overhead Support		 2021
£
168,123
4,111
106,864
279,097		 2020
£
190,539
5,811
153,896
£350,246

12. OVERHEAD SUPPORT COSTS

Student Social Venues and
Events
Student Activities
Little Learners
Franchised Space
Marketing & Sponsorship
Business Development
Commercial Trading
Student Democracy &
Representation
Advice Services		 Support
Staff
£
138,704
106,590
14,358
4,100
65,594
19,132
2,050
52,953
59,103
462,583		 Repairs
Maintenance
and Cleaning
£
37,922
29,142
-
1,121
17,933
5,231
560
14,478
16,159
122,546		 Office
Costs
£
35,209
27,057
-
1,041
16,651
4,856
520
13,442
15,003
113,780		 Other
Costs
£
38,956
29,936
-
1,151
18,422
5,373
576
14,872
16,599
125,886		 2021
£
250,790
192,726
14,358
7,413
118,600
34,592
3,706
95,745
106,864
824,794		 2020
£
359,933
267,426
44,132
10,092
171,557
50,458
8,410
138,759
153,896
£1,204,663

Governance costs, including the audit fee of £9,156 (2020: £9,156), are included above under other costs.

13. NET INCOMING RESOURCES

The net incoming resources is stated after charging:

Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Operating Lease rentals
Audit Fees		 2021
£
158,591
200
9,156		 2020
£
225,844
200
9,156

Page 27

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

14. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS

Cost
At 1stAugust 2020
Additions
Disposals
Transfers
At 31st July 2021
Depreciation
At 1stAugust 2020
Charge for the Year
Disposals
Transfers
At 31st July 2021
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31st July 2021
At 31stJuly 2020		 Venues
Other
£
£
480,703
885,966
-
36,873
-
-
16,533
(5,850)		 Shop
£
40,850
-
-
(10,683)		 Office and
Facilities
£
804,280
4,804
-
-		 Nursery
£
20,258
900
-
-
21,158
18,863
898
-
-
19,761
1,397
1,395		 Total
£
2,232,057
42,577
-
-
497,236
916,989		 30,167 809,084 2,274,634
326,862
581,462
48,555
67,131
-
-
(32,829)
58,024		 32,565
988
-
(3,386)		 652,222
41,019
-
(21,808)		 1,611,974
158,591
-
-
342,588
706,617		 30,167 671,433 1,770,565
154,648
210,372		 - 137,651 504,069
153,841
304,504		 8,285 152,059 620,083

15. INVESTMENTS

Subsidiary Companies:
Little Learners @ RUSU Limited
RUSU Trading Limited
Total Parent Investments		 2021
£
2
2
4
4		 2020
£
2
2
4
4

Little Learners at RUSU Limited (Company Number: 03723877) operates a nursery. The results of the subsidiary are consolidated in these accounts and are set out in note 5. The net assets of the company at the year end amounted to £3,607.

RUSU Trading Limited (Company Number: 08308331) was incorporated on 27[th] November 2012 and commenced to trade on 1[st] August 2015. The company was dormant throughout 2020/21. The net assets of the company at the year end amounted to £2.

Page 28

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

16. STOCKS

Bars
Merchandise
Sports Kit
Catering
Nursery		 Consolidated
2021
2020
£
£
31,777
48,407
28,033
25,104
30,864
34,194
4,797
4,994
255
1,017
£95,726
£113,716		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
31,777
48,407
28,029
25,104
30,864
34,194
4,797
4,994
-
-
£95,467
£112,699		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
31,777
48,407
28,029
25,104
30,864
34,194
4,797
4,994
-
-
£95,467
£112,699
£112,699

17. DEBTORS

Trade Debtors
Other Debtors
Intercompany Balance
Gift Aid from Subsidiary
Company
Prepayment and Accrued
Income		 Consolidated
2021
2020
£
£
48,630
24,284
39,446
57,556
-
-
-
-
68,943
58,403
£157,019
£140,243		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
41,529
18,745
40,429
57,556
(2,760)
43,249
-
-
68,811
58,271
£148,009
£177,821		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
41,529
18,745
40,429
57,556
(2,760)
43,249
-
-
68,811
58,271
£148,009
£177,821
£177,821

18. CREDITORS : Amounts falling due within one year

Consolidated
Parent
2021
2020
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
University Loans
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
Trade Creditors
129,252
70,685
102,115
52,595
University Creditor
4,332
-
4,332
-
Other Creditors including Taxation:
PAYE Social Security
26,065
46,467
26,065
46,467
VAT
-
-
-
-
Other Creditors
56,229
59,341
30,109
36,198
Pension Liability
-
292,047
-
292,047
Holiday Pay accrual
31,681
48,710
31,681
48,710
Accruals and
Deferred Income
157,814
217,658
141,284
202,257
271,789
664,223
229,138
625,679
459,372
788,908
389,586
732,274		 Consolidated
Parent
2021
2020
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
University Loans
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
Trade Creditors
129,252
70,685
102,115
52,595
University Creditor
4,332
-
4,332
-
Other Creditors including Taxation:
PAYE Social Security
26,065
46,467
26,065
46,467
VAT
-
-
-
-
Other Creditors
56,229
59,341
30,109
36,198
Pension Liability
-
292,047
-
292,047
Holiday Pay accrual
31,681
48,710
31,681
48,710
Accruals and
Deferred Income
157,814
217,658
141,284
202,257
271,789
664,223
229,138
625,679
459,372
788,908
389,586
732,274		 Consolidated
Parent
2021
2020
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
University Loans
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
Trade Creditors
129,252
70,685
102,115
52,595
University Creditor
4,332
-
4,332
-
Other Creditors including Taxation:
PAYE Social Security
26,065
46,467
26,065
46,467
VAT
-
-
-
-
Other Creditors
56,229
59,341
30,109
36,198
Pension Liability
-
292,047
-
292,047
Holiday Pay accrual
31,681
48,710
31,681
48,710
Accruals and
Deferred Income
157,814
217,658
141,284
202,257
271,789
664,223
229,138
625,679
459,372
788,908
389,586
732,274		 Consolidated
Parent
2021
2020
2021
2020
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
University Loans
54,000
54,000
54,000
54,000
Trade Creditors
129,252
70,685
102,115
52,595
University Creditor
4,332
-
4,332
-
Other Creditors including Taxation:
PAYE Social Security
26,065
46,467
26,065
46,467
VAT
-
-
-
-
Other Creditors
56,229
59,341
30,109
36,198
Pension Liability
-
292,047
-
292,047
Holiday Pay accrual
31,681
48,710
31,681
48,710
Accruals and
Deferred Income
157,814
217,658
141,284
202,257
271,789
664,223
229,138
625,679
459,372
788,908
389,586
732,274

389,586 732,274

Page 29

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

19. CREDITORS : Amounts falling due after one year

Pension Provision
University Loans		 Consolidated
2021
2020
£
£
1,472,371
1,531,838
292,000
346,000
£1,764,371
£1,877,838		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
1,472,371
1,531,838
292,000
346,000
£1,764,371
£1,877,838		 Parent
2021
2020
£
£
1,472,371
1,531,838
292,000
346,000
£1,764,371
£1,877,838
£1,877,838

The Union currently has two interest free loans with the University which are repayable in instalments. As at July 2021, £101,000 is repayable in instalments until 2031 and £245,000 is repayable in instalments until 2029.

21. STAFF COSTS AND KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL

Permanent Staff
Gross Salaries
Employers N.I.
Employers Pension
Part Time Students
Total Staff Costs		 2021
£
1,436,259
125,220
51,262
205,024
1,817,765		 2020
£
1,764,579
132,753
62,704
223,105
2,183,141

The average number of permanent staff in the year was 64 (2020: 74) The average number of temporary student staff in the year was 59 (2020: 79)

Employer pension contributions amount to between 3% and 6% of gross salary which is in line with amounts paid for other employees. Key management personnel consist of 4 managers who earn a combined salary of £212,759 (2020: 5 managers, £314,222).

No travel expenses were paid to trustees during the period (2020: £32).

Page 30

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

22. PENSIONS

The Union participated in the Students’ Union Superannuation Scheme, which is a defined benefit scheme whose membership consists of employees of students’ unions and related bodies throughout the country. Benefits in respect of service up to 30[th] September 2003 are accrued on a “final salary” basis, with benefits in respect of service from 1[st] October 2003 accruing on a Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) basis. With effect from 30[th] September 2011 the scheme closed to future accrual.

The most recent valuation of the scheme was carried out as at 30[th] June 2019 and showed that the market value of the scheme’s assets was £119.1m with these assets representing 46% of the value of benefits that had accrued to members after allowing for expected future increases in earnings. The deficit on an ongoing funding basis amounted to £140.9m.

The assumptions which have the most significant effect upon the results of the valuation are those relating to the rate of return on investments and the rates of increase in salaries and pensions.

The 2019 valuation recommended a contribution requirement by each Union expressed in monetary terms intended to clear the on-going funding deficit over a period of 16 years and will increase by 8% in October 2021 and at least 5% each year from October 2022. These contributions also include an allowance for cost of the on-going administrative and operational expenses of running the scheme. These rates applied with effect from 1 October 2020. In accordance with FRS 102 provision has been made for the discounted value of contributions receivable. Surpluses and deficits which arise at future valuations will also impact on the Unions future contribution commitment. In addition to the above contributions, the Union also pays its share of the schemes levy to the Pension Protection Fund. The discount rate applied was 2.6%.

The total contributions paid into the scheme in respect of the funding deficit for the period ended 31[st] July 2021 amounted to £292,047 (2020: £nil) as the Union took advantage of a discount being offered by the SUSS in 2017 and have paid three years of contributions up front.

From 1[st] October 2011 the Union has participated in the National Union of Students Pension Scheme, NUSPS, which is a defined contribution scheme. This scheme was closed to new entrants on 31[st] January 2014. From 1[st] February 2014 new staff are automatically enrolled in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST). Contributions to these schemes are accounted for in the year in which they are due and amounted to £31,856 (2020: £45,356).

Page 31

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

23. COMMITMENTS UNDER OPERATING LEASES

At 31[st] July 2021 the company had total commitments under non-cancellable operating leases as set out below:

Operating Leases which expire :
Within 1 year
After more than 5 years		 2021
Land &
Buildings
Other
Items
£
£

200
-
1,500
-
£1,700
£-		 2021
Land &
Buildings
Other
Items
£
£

200
-
1,500
-
£1,700
£-		 2021
Land &
Buildings
Other
Items
£
£

200
-
1,500
-
£1,700
£-		 2020
Land &
Buildings
Other
Items
£
£		 2020
Land &
Buildings
Other
Items
£
£
200 -
1,700 -
£- £1,900 £-

The above amount relates to the lease on the nursery building which was renewed during the prior year and runs until March 2024 and the lease on the Student Union building which runs until 2036. Other accommodation is provided free of charge by the University. Were the Union to pay for additional space it uses for its operations this charge would increase by up to £675,000.

24. DONATIONS

The Union made no donations to external bodies during the year except where collections were made on behalf of various charities and lodged with the Union prior to payment to the charity.

25. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Union is in receipt of a recurrent grant from the University of Reading of £1,555,577 (2020: £1,571,568). The Union also received loans from the University in previous years, and in 2021 made repayments totalling £54,000 (2020: 54,000).

In addition, the Union occupies its building under a lease from The University of Reading for a charge of £100 per year until 25[th] March 2036 under an agreement whereby the Union maintains the building in a good state of repair.

The trustees of the Union are the members of the Trustee Board. The Officer Trustees of the Trustee Board receive remuneration for their services as provided for within the Constitution (see note 21).

Page 32

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

26. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS

Balance Brought Forward
Income
Expenditure
Transfers:
Capital Expenditure Funding
Future Project Fund
Clubs and Societies Adjustment
Adjustment to Pension Liability
Balance Carried Forward		 -----------------Designated Reserves----------------
General
Reserve
Student
Activities
Balances
Capital
Equipment
Future
Project
Fund
Pension
Reserves
1,926,912
246,223
218,686
363,935
(1,823,885)
3,201,169
155,353
-
-
-
(2,947,257)
(144,992)
-
-
59,467
62,014
-
(62,014)
-
-
36,047
-
-
(36,047)
-
(943)
943
-
-
-
(292,045)
-
-
-
292,045
1,985,898
257,526
156,672
327,888
(1,472,373)

Funding of Capital Expenditure

The Capital Equipment Fund represents the Unions investments in fixed assets. All capitalised assets acquired from general funds or other designated funds (e.g. Future Project Fund) are represented by the Capital Equipment Fund and appropriate transfers are made. Fixed assets depreciation is charged against this fund. To the extent loans which have financed fixed asset acquisitions are repaid, a transfer is made from general funds to the capital fund.

Pension Reserve

The Pension Reserve represents the pension provision in respect of the SUSS Scheme of £1,472,373. See note 22 for details of the pension liability and note 30 for further information on the additional liability.

27. RESTRICTED FUNDS

Activities Balances
Volunteering
Other		 Balance B/F
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
Balance C/F
13,262
-
-
-
13,262
1,340
-
-
-
1,340
-
-
-
-
-
£14,602
-
-
-
£14,602

28. CONTROLLING PARTY

The Union is controlled by the Trustee Board, 9 members of which are subject to democratic election by the voting membership of the Union. The ultimate control of the Union is vested under the constitution in the membership in General meeting. As such no single person or entity controls the Union. The Trustee Board also contains a minimum 4 externally appointed Trustees.

Page 33

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

29. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

At the year end the Union had committed to building refurbishment works and other capital projects totalling £nil (2020: £nil).

30. VAT ISSUE

During the prior year, HMRC challenged the treatment of catering at RUSU’s bars and issued an assessment of £70,346, which was reflected as a creditor in the 2019/20 accounts. RUSU paid the amount in 2020 but disagree with the assessment and have commenced action to appeal the decision. The outcome of this is not yet known.

Page 34

READING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ UNION

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] JULY 2021

31. COMPARATIVE SOFA 2020

INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS
Grant Income
Additional Funding
Charitable Activities
Student Social Venues and Events
Student Activities (Clubs and Societies)
Little Learners (Nursery)
Other Trading Activities
Franchised Space
Business Development
Commercial Trading
Marketing & Sponsorship
Interest Receivable
Other
Total Income
EXPENDITURE
Charitable Activities
Student Social Venues and Events
Student Democracy and Representation
Student Activities (Clubs and Societies)
Advice Services
Affiliations
Little Learners (Nursery)
Raising Funds
Franchised Space
Marketing and Sponsorship
Business Development
Commercial Trading
Total Operating Expenditure
Net Operating Income/(Expenditure)
Movement in Pension Deficit
Movement in Pension Deficit
Transfers between Funds
Net Movement in Funds
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds Brought Forward
Funds Carried Forward		 Unrestricted
Funds
£
1,496,568
75,000
1,179,844
32,443
679,877
46,795
164,303
37,646
32,792
10,572
158,190
3,914,030
1,443,447
336,543
611,616
350,246
59,559
710,430
10,092
291,685
154,404
43,313
4,011,335
(97,305)
-
-
408,675
311,370
1,615,543
1,926,913		 Designated
Funds
£
-
-
-
460,248
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
460,248
-
-
393,729
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
393,729
66,519
(515,208)
(515,208)
(408,675)
(857,364)
(137,677)
(995,041)		 Restricted
Funds
£
-
-
-
8,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
8,000
-
-
19,984
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
19,984
(11,984)
-
-
-
(11,984)
26,586
14,602		 Total
2020
£
1,496,568
75,000
1,179,844
500,691
679,877
46,795
164,303
37,646
32,792
10,572
158,190
4,382,278
1,443,447
336,543
1,025,329
350,246
59,559
710,430
10,092
291,685
154,404
43,313
4,425,048
(42,770)
(515,208)
(515,208)
-
(557,978)
1,504,452
946,474