Breaking Barriers Meaningful employment for refugees Annual Report and Accounts For the year ended 31 May 2025 2024-2025
nnua eport an ccoun Contents Foreword About us Foreword Our vision, mission and values Why we exist Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lived Experience Panel Mika's story A decade of impact 2024-25: A momentous year Ouryear in numbers Esraa's story The people we work with Who are our clients? It's astonishing howmuch canhappeninayear. For many of the people we serve at Breaking Barriers - refugees building new lives from the ground up - a year can mean the chance to find safety, stability, and take the first steps towards a new beginning. For others, it's defined by reaching a huge milestone, as they secure meaningful employment and start an exciting, if challenging, new chapter. io li 12 13 14 14 Time waiting for refugee status Education and qualifications English language Work experience and employment status Labour market knowledge Professions ond job sectors Interrelated challenges Outcomes and impact Our corporate partners Breoking Barriers with Mocquarie Volunteering Education classes 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 27 28 29 30 30 Employment-related outcomes Thomas. story Education and training outcomes Oleksii's story What our clients say Looking ahead Trustees, Annual Report Independent Auditor's Report Financiol Statements 32 34 35 36 37 38 39 47 51 Reference and Administrative detoils 71 Clara Devlin, CEO With thanks 72 Find out more 76
mpac eport For the team at Breaking Barriers, the 2024-25 financial year has been no less momentous. In April. we marked our 10th anniversary and reflected on ourjourney from a start-up established by Matt Powell, with the support of a small. visionary group of donors. to a national charity. Over the past decade, our mission to support refugees into meaningful employment has remained a constant. and we are so proud of our staff, volunteers, funders, donors and partners who have supported 3,848 people during this time. This was a bold decision amid a difficult funding climate. But it is one that not only strengthened our expertise and reach, but reflects our unwavering commitment to holistic. high-quality support for refugees and osylum seekers. Beyond our organisation, the shifting political and economic climate also presented new challenges and opportunities. We refreshed ourTheory of Change and began redesigning our service model to meet growing need in a SUStoinable woy. with shorper ambitions to reach more people in more places across the UK. 2024-25 has been our most impactful year yet. We supported 1,450 individuals- the highest number in any single year and a 16% increose on 2023-24. But we know that these aren'tjust numbers. They represent transformed lives, unlocked potential, ond strengthened futures. Now. as we look ahead, we do so with hope. Not because the poth is easy, but because the people we walk alongside show us what con be overcome with belief. determinotion and collaboration. Change was a defining theme, os we responded lo a world in flux. We welcomed RefuAid's oword-winning Longuage and Re-occreditation Programmes into our service offering. Thank you to everyone who hos been port of our journey so far. We can't wait to see what the next year holds for us. All)a Chiara Lamberti. Choir of the Board of Trustees
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun About Us Our vision We're Breaking Barriers so every refugee can access meaningful employment and build a new life. Our mission We welcome refugees into meaningful employment with advice, experience, and education. We believe in the power of responsible business to change society for the better through our innovative partnerships. Our values Mission-led We put refugees first in everything we do. We listen and respond. We act with integrity. We're focused on impact. Welcoming We welcome people of all backgrounds with an open mind. We will make everybody feel comfortable working with us every step of the way. We treat everybody fairly. We champion diversity, equality, and inclusion. Entrepreneurial We believe in the entrepreneurial spirit of every individual to build a better life. We believe in the power of responsible businesses to achieve social change. We're brave and bold enough to give new things a go. We're driven by making a lasting impact. Collaborative We believe in the power of teamwork and partnerships. We work collaboratively with colleagues to find creative solutions for the greater good. We're proud to share our expertise and knowledge with partners to further our positive impact.
mpac eport Why we exist Refugees in the UK are almost three times more likelyto be unemployed than people born here. And often, they ore leftto face these barriers alone. Refugees flee their homes in fear. From war, persecution, and violence. With yet more hardship waiting in the UK. A new country and language. Stigma and suspicion. While they woit for a decision on their asylum application, most people are not permitted to work, cannot choose where they live, and typically rely on government grants of £7 per day for food, sanitation, and clothing. After they ore granted humanitarian status, refugees still face many obstacles to gaining employment and building new lives. These can include: We think that's wrong. And it's why we exist. Our team at Breaking Barriers, alongside more than 100 volunteers. provides one-to- one advice and guidonce, education, and training to support refugees. Wealso work with partners and employers to build employability skills and U K experience. provide education and employment opportunities for refugees, and promote inclusive, equitable hiring practices ond workploces. Together we breok down borriers, so thot every refugee will be welcomed into meaningful employment. Because we know that employment is obout more than just a job. For refugees, meaningful work doesn'tjust offer finoncial independence. It can restore a sense of identity, purpose and belonging. It con help people who've lost everything to connect with their new communities and build new lives. And, at the same lime, employers con benefit from welcoming tolented new colleogues with skills, experience and potential for innovation that con impact us oll for the better. Longuage borriers Gaps on Cvs due to lengthy asylum processes Lack of UK work experience Non-recognition of qualifications Limited understanding of the UK job market No local professional network Cultural differences Public misconceptions and discrimination Educot•
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Diversity, equity and inclusion Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) embodies two of our core organisational values Welcoming and Collaborative. In 2024-25, we built on previous activity to embed DEI even further: Workplace diversity We exceeded torgets for diversifying our stoff prof ile in age, LGBTQ+, disability, and ethnicity at senior levels. We are working towards increasing ethnic diversity at all levels. Anno Kingsley-Nyinah, Director of People DEI Working Group Our well-established DEI working group: Fed into an internal policy review to ensure inclusivity Led regulor sessions to encourage staff involvement in DEI activities Lived Experience We updated and relaunched our Lived Experience Strotegy. placing greater emphosis on internal support and career progression, to assist staff from refugee backgrounds or with experience of seeking sanctuary or forced migration. To help us meet these objectives, we olso improved our employee dota and started a programme to offer targeted learning and development for staff with lived experience The voice of diversity and lived experience continued to feature prominently in our work through the Lived Experience Panel, with increasing influence on strategy. operations and amplifying our presence externally Arronged events to celebrate occasions such as Race Equality Week and Mental Health Awareness Week Organised'Deepening Awareness. sessions on global issues to enhance staff knowledge of the chollenges foced by our refugee clients and colleagues Staff support We achieved Pre nant Then Screwed accreditation to support our pregnancy, maternity and paternity policies We recruited and trained more volunteer Mental Health First Aiders who provide voluable wellbeing support across the organisation As we continue to embed DEI initiatives across the organisation. we are always learning and evolving our processes. We also remain committed to advocating for DEI and the benefits of diverse workplace5 among businesses and employers.
mpac eport Lived Experience Panel The Lived Experience Panel (LEP) continues to be a driving force for inclusive change at Breaking Barriers. Changing how we work In 2024-25, LEP members contributed more than 400 hours of paid consultancy. embedding their professional and lived experience knowledge acros5 service design. recruitment. partnerships. fundraising, communications and strategic development. The consultants. Contributed to our new Theory of Change Participated in the DEI working group Influenced our DEI strategy Designed interview processes to support inclusive recruitment Participated in shortlisting and interview panels for new staff and LEP members Ensured practices reflected our values and centred clients, voices Nanou, Lived Experience Consultant Nanou, Lived Experience Consultant, 2024-25 Being part of the Lived Experience Panel at Breaking Barriers has been a powerful leadership journey. One of my proudest moments was interviewing the current and former CEOS of Breaking Barriers, where I brought forward the voices of refugee communities. I also spoke directly with business partners, advocating for fairer employment opportunities and more culturally responsive practices. These experiences deepened my confidence and positioned me as a changemaker within the organisation. Collaborating with my Breaking Barriers colleagues and panel members, I've helped shape services and policies that reflect real need5. Enhanced internal communications Informed HR policy Guided staff learning on forced displacement and cultural sensitivity Representing Breaking Barriers externally LEP members supported campaigns, contributed to fundraising application5. and represented Breaking Barriers at sector events and roundtables alongside our business and charity partners. Notably, IOO¥o of staff who worked with the LEP reported satisfaction with their involvement, praising the panel's professionalism and insight. It's beenanhonourto leadwith purpose and ensure livedexperience is atthe heart of everything Breaking Barriersdoes. 99 The LEP'S work is about more than representation it is about co-creotion, shared leadership, ond shifting power. We are proud to keep building on the anel's valuable contribution to ether. Find out more about our Lived Ex erience Consultants
Mika's story
mpac eport 66 I amfromAzerbaijan andcametothe UK on 21 February, 2016.1 still rememberthat day. Isn'tit strange rememberingthe dates while other people do not even remember their anniversaries? While I was still studying, my caseworker was Anisa - she was absolutely lovely and increth'bly supportive. After I'd graduated, Abdul became my new caseworker, and he s been even more supportive. I felt quite lost. unsure of what direction to take. We started having regular online check-ins every two weeks. He listened patiently to all my worries - and even my rantsl Thanks to Abdul's support and encouragement, I got a full-time role at the Refugee and Migrant Centre as an adviser and became a Lived Experience Consultant at Breaking Barriers. It's been an amazing journey with Breaking Barriers, and I'm so grateful for everything. Meaningful employment is about being in a place where I feel I truly belong - working alongside people who share the same mindset and being part of a compassionate and understanding environment where my values are reflected in the work I do. As a refugee, I faced many challenges - navigating a new system while dealing with language barriers, homelessness, and the responsibility of caring for my disabled mother. It was overwhelming at times, especially not knowing where to turn for support. For example, when I was granted refugee status, my mother and I became homeless and had to rely on the local council. At the same time. I was trying to continue my education while being my mother's full- time carer. Despite these challenges, I stayed focused on my goals. I pushed through university and got my degree, and I became passionate about helping others in similar situations. The support I received from Breaking Barriers has been such an important part of my journey. My ultimate goal is to become a lawyer. I know it's a long and challenging journey. but I'm committed and truly believe I'll achieve my dream. Step by step, I'm working towards building a career that reflects my passion for justice and helping others. 99
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun A decade of impact During 2024-25, Breaking Barriers reached a significant milestone, aswe markedourloth anniversary. In 2015 our founder, Mott Powell. lounched Breaking Barriers, mission to support refugees into meaningful employment from his parents, kitchen table. From those modest but ambitious beginnings. we have since grown into a chority with national reoch. Our Breakin Barriers: Buildin Futures campaign began in April 2025, creating an opporlunityto look back on a decade of our clients, ochievements, and ahead to the future we want to see for refugees. It feotured 10 of our clients. reflecting on theirjourney to meaningful employment. plus insights ond highlights from 10 Breaking Borriers partners ond long-term supporters. 10 years 3,848 clients supported ocr055 the UK between 2016-17 and 2024-25 1,920 3,540 clients have ochieved Positive outcomes in employment, education and volunteering 1,558 employment outcomes 1,435 279 50% clients have participated in education programmes group recruitment and skills sessions hosted by of clients have achieved o positive outcome during theirtime enrolled with us 1,663 education and training outcomes 74 cv corporate partners 319 volunteering outcomes
rea Ing arriers nn eport an ccoun 2024-25: A momentous year In December 2024, Breaking Barriers integrated two successful programmes from partner charity, RefuAid, into our service offering: Language.. Working with English language teaching institutions across the country, this service offers ref ugees structured tuition to help them achieve a high level of English or gain the longuage qualifications they need to enter UK higher education or employment. Re-accreditation: This progromme provides expert guidance to help refugees who hove international qualif ications to achieve the certifications they require to re-enter their chosen field in the UK. We are olso excited thot the integrotion of the Language and Re-accreditation Progrommes has further expanded Breaking Barriers, geographicol reoch. We continue to support clients from our hubs in London, Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow. But our re-occreditotion support is offered fully remotely to clients country-wide. And our language education partners provide both online and in-person courses ocross the UK. These two services joined our established Employability Programme. which provides support and training to help refugees identify, access and apply for workplace and education opportunities. It combines one-to-one advice, group recruitment and skills sessions led by our corporate portners, plus pothways that bring together refugees ond employers to build knowledge and create opportunities in specific job sectors. Each of these programmes tackles different borriers to employment. ond in combination they allow us to offer tailored support to meet each of our clients. needs. Because every refugee's situation is unique. As are the skills. tolents ond experience that they con bring to workplaces across the UK. 11 Click to watch the joint CEO interview about the integration of the Language and Re-accreditation Programmes from RefuAid into Breaking Barriers
mpac eport Our year in numbers Together, in 2024-25", our Employability, Language and Re-accreditation Programmes increased Breaking Barriers, impact and allowed us to reach more refugees, wherever they are in the country. 1,450 people benefitted from our support the highest number in any year to date, and a 16% increase on 2023-24. Clients supported by location 500 2021-22 2022-23 2025-24 2024-25 • Glasgow London Norlh West 'Our financial year runs from June to May. • Wesl Midlands • oihèr 1,450 42% clients supported - more than any previou5 year of clients achieved outcomes 269 cv new jobs started by clients higher than 2023-24 904 90% of clients reported an improved understanding of their preferred sector of work positive outcomes achieved by 612 lients the highest number of outcomes ever, ando 41 group recruitment and skills sessions hosted by increase on 2023-24 126 29 corporate partners 88% dedicated volunteers gave one-to-one employability support. mentoring or tutoring to clients of clients reported increased confidence in meeting their employment goals I Ciientlocotion is deierminedeirherbyrhe Breaking Bcvrriers hub throiwh which rheyreteivesupport, orrheiroddress,
reo Ing orrier5 mpa epo Esraa's story I have a job and I'm studying for my master's degree. People see that and think I'm successful. But I want to share the struggles I went through. So that anyone reading this is inspired to help refugees. Or, if you are a refugee, to show that you just have to keep working and waiting for your time. Then I came to Breaking Barriers and I met Safia, my Employment Adviser. We worked on my CV and cover letters. She also helped me I'm from Sudan. I have two degrees in with my interview skills. I went on courses computer science. and I worked as an ICT and workshops with Breaking Barriers and teacher for primary children. I d worked since their partners too, I'd graduated, I lived a good life, and I was very independent. Safia saw my potential and helped me gain the I arrived in the UK to study a master's degree confidence to apply for jobs where I could develop my skills. l applied for a role as an in business analysis and consulting. However, Employer Engagement Officer and got an war broke out in Sudan. my company was no interview. This was good news! Breaking longer able to sponsor my studies. and it was Barriers helped me to prepare and, 10 minutes not safe for me to go home. In one moment, I went from excitement for my master's, to after I left the interview, the manager called me and offered me the job. becoming a refugee. I lost everything. I came to the UK to complete my master's, and I started to apply for jobs. It was so hard. Most that is still my primary goal. I began my companies didn't answer my applications. I course in September 2024, but I've continued had some interviews but I didn't get the jobs working at the same time. l also hope to pass and they didn't give me any feedback. so I my driving test soon. and become didn't know how to improve. fully independent again. 99
mpac eport The people we work with Who are our clients? Breaking Barriers supports people in the UK who've been granted refugee status or other humanitarian protection- such as those with visas under the 'Ukrainian Family, or'Homes for Ukraine, schemes, and British National (Overseas) visa holders from Hong Kong. We also support, asylum seekers who have the right to work and, on our Language Programme, those who have the right to study in the UK. Our clients have a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. Here is a snapshot of the people we supported in 2024-25. Country of Origin Our clients came from 76 countries, but olmost half were from just five: Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan, Syria ond Ukraine. Top 10 countries of origin Iran 11% Other 30% Afghanistan io% Sudan Nigeria Eritrea 3% Turkey Syrio Yemen 5% Hong Kong Ukraine The informotion collected0boutclientsre1vIng employobilitysupportdiffers from Ihothistoricollycollectedfor the Language andRe-accreditationprogmmmes integratedfrom RefuAid. Wherespecified. insights for2024-25relate to a sub-setof clients.
rea Ing orriers nnua eport an ccoun Languages More than 100 languages are spoken by clients on our Employability Programme, with the most common being Arabic. Farsi, Cantonese and Dari. Top 10 languages spoken by clients 25% 20% 15% io% 5% 0%
mpac eport Clients by gender Other Gender 54% of our clients identify as a man and 45% identify os a woman. This compares with 58¥0 and 41% respectively in 2023-24. Woman 45% Man 54% Clients by age Over 50 Age Our clients, ages ronge from 18 to 50+. Over two-thirds are aged 40 or under. 46-50 41-45 14% 36-40 19% 31-35 22% 26-30 17% 18-25 12%
rea Ing orriers nnua eport an ccoun Time waiting for refugee status Our data indicates that more than a quarter of clients receiving our employability support in 2024-25 had waited for over two years to receive their refugee status. Some waited considerably longer - with 4% waiting 10 years or more. Because most of our clients are only permitted to work after their asylum claim has been granted. many face lengthy gaps on their Cvs and risk falling behind with the skills and advancements in their industries. Clients by time spent awaiting refugee status IOOY• loo 90% 93% 94% 95/0 96/0 96/0 80 840/0 72% 60 40% 20 19Ya Time range
mpac eport Rebecca, Employment Adviser 66 Mycaseload includes clients at different stages of theirlives andin arange of circumstances.While itisrewardingto support those beginning their careers- helping them explore options andwhat excites them- it's equally inspiring to work with experienced clientswho are retraining in a new industry or returningto a familiarone. 99
rea Ing orriers nnua eport an ccoun Education and qualifications Most of our clients are highly educated. Our data indicates almost three-quarters (71°A) of those supported in 2024-25 have at least an undergraduate degree or other Level 6 qualification, such as a Graduate Diploma. And 240A hold a master's degree, PhD or other Level 718 qualification. Overall. our clients have a higher level of education than the British public as a whole. 78% of clients have at least a Level 4 qualification (eg, Certificate/Diploma of Higher Education or equivalent). compared to 37% of the general public. For more infonnation on British Qualification Levels, visit- htt www. ov.uk what-different- ualification-levels-mean Highest level of client education Level 7/8 e.g. master's degree, PhD 24% Level 6 e.g. undergraduate degree 47% Level 4/5 e.g. Certificate / Diploma of Higher Education Level 3 e.g. A-Level Level 1/2 e.g. GCSE < Level I e.g. entry level ESOL Basedon 2021 census data from the Office for Nationalstatistics (forEnglond& Wales) and the Northern Irelandstatisfics andResearch A enc . and2022censusdato from Scoflond's Census. Census dota is forresidents oged16 orobove. so moy understate educotion levelsrelotive to Breoking Borriers clients. who ore olloged18+.
rea Ing arriers nnu eport an ccoun English Language Learning a new language is one of the biggest challenges many refugees face when they reach the UK. Nearly 90% of the people we supported in 2024-25 were recorded as having good English speaking ability at enrolment. But complex language in recruitment or contracts can still create a barrier to employment. Whilst workplace jargon and unfamiliar communicotion styles con makejobs harder for those who are learning English. Breoking Barriers works one-to-one with clients to help them navigate recruitment ond onboarding processes. We also support corporate partners to make recruitment more accessible and open-up job opportunities to our clients. And we work with professional bodies to try to set inclusive recruitment standards ocross industries. We also work alongside a network of over 160 language teaching institutions across the UK to address the fact that applicants for manyjobs- and most higher education courses- must pass on English language test. Preparing for and taking these tests con be time-consuming and expensive, often putting jobs or courses out of reach for refugees ond asylum seekers. So. we connect clients with free, structured English tuition, and cover travel and exam costs, to help them achieve the qualifications they need to enter university or rejoin their previous profession.
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Work experience and employment status Before enrolling with us, most of the people we supported in 2024-25 had substantial work experience abroad or in the UK. Our data indicates that two-thirds had at least three years, experience, while 30 % had worked for 10 years or more. Despite high levels of education ond experience, and four fifths having already started their job search, 78% of clients on our Employability Programme were unemployed when they enrolled with us. This compares to 5% of the UK population as a whole, and reflects the many challenges refugees face when looking for work in the UK.5 Years of work experience at enrolment <lyear 12% 1-3 years 21° 5-10 years 26% Over 10 years 30% io% 20% 30% 40% 60% 70% 80% 90% loo% Percentoge of clients Office forNationalStotistics Labourmarketoverview July2025
mpac eport Clients. employment status at enrolment 80% 60% 40% 20% OOA Economically inoctive Employed Unemployed Clients •uK
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Labour market knowledge One of the barriers between refugees and meaningful employment is understanding how UK recruitment processes and the labour market work. Our one-to-one employment advice. client workshops with corporate partners, and sector-specific training pathways can all help bridge the gaps in refugees, knowledge of the UK and improve their chances of success in job applications. When they enrolled, three quarters of clients on our Employability Progromme felt they knew where to look forjob opportunities, and over 70% had applied for jobs in the previous three months. But olmost half of those who'd storted their job search had never had a UK job interview, and neorly o third hod been looking for work for at least a year. of employability clients had a CV when they enrolled, but only felt confident about writing o cover letter Active job seekers: Time looking for work pre-enrolment Up to I month loo%
I month 97% 3 months 77% 6 months 9 months 36% 12 months 32% 18 months 11% 2 years 3 yeors
mpac eport Professions and job sectors Said, Employability Programme client Clients join us with a wide variety of employment goals. For example, they may be seeking their first UK work experience, looking for a role where they can build their English skills, or trying to progress from insecure employment. But many of our clients have a specific employment path in mind and need help either to occe55 specific training or education, or to restart previous careers. These goals are a particular focus for our Language and Re-occreditotion Programme5. In 2024-25, our Longuage and Re-occreditotion teoms supported o diverse range of professionals, from doctors and teachers to electricions, pharmacists and even a Merchant Navy Officer. Healthcare was the most popular sector within these programmes with over holf of clients wanting to kickstart their UK coreer in this f ield. 66 Before joining Breaking Barriers, I had attended a few interviews but was unsuccessful. At that time. I lacked confidence and wasn't sure how to approach job applications or interviews, especially since I had no work experience in the UK. After joining Breaking Barriers, my confidence started to grow. l even began considering new career paths. Breaking Barriers helped me see different options and opened my mind to new opportunities. Even though I only attended one job club session, it gave me the knowledge and confidence I needed to move forward and prepare for interviews. During a one-to-one Zoom session, I practised answering interview questions, which really helped me prepare. Shortly after that, I attended my first interview since joining Breaking Barriers, and I got the job! This experience showed me just how valuable the support from Breaking Barriers is. Sometimes. people just need a small spark to ignite their potential. Top employment sectors for Language and Re-accreditation clients Healthcare 54% Engineering Education Law 99 Tech 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Interrelated challenges Homelessness The challenges and barriers faced by Manyof our clients struggle with homelessness ond insecure housing. refugees are complex and interrelated. The percentage of clients on our Employability So, whilst we focus on refugee Programme who were homeless at enrolment fell employment, we work alongside outside London in 2024-25. However, over a organisations with other expertise to quarter were experiencing homelessness when they joined us. This creates many challenges and extend the support for our clients. can affect people's ability to find employment. In particular, we refer clients to - and Forexample. clients without a secure home may have clients referred to us by - not know how long they'll be living in a particular organisations that provide support orea. They may not have access to WiFi, or a desk or table to sit ot. And they may be in overcrowded with housing and mental health. or shared occommodation without a private space foronline job interviews or to work. Employability Clients experiencing homelessness 44% 40% 41% 41% 38% 34% 30% 26% 20¥0 20% 18% 14% IOQ/o Glasgow London North West West Midlands Total 2023-24 2024-25
rea Ing arriers nnuo eport an ccoun Mental health The proportion of our employability clients who said they were experiencing mental health diff iculties when they joined us fell from 25% in 2023-24 to 21% in 2024-25. However, this still means that one in five reported that they regularly struggled with their mental health. It's also important to note thot. due to ongoing stigma and different cultural perceptions or understanding of mentol illness. this challenge may be under-reported. The causes of mentol heolth challenges for our clients are often complex, but con include: Aziia, Employability Programme client 66 I am very grateful for Breaking Barriers, support. Maybe I haven't achieved any significant or desired results yet, but what I've done and where I am now is also an achievement for me. Because honestly speaking, this was the most psychologically difficult year of my life and I'm glad that I went through certain things in it, and I was not alone. 99 Complicated and lengthy legal and asylum processes Homelessness or insecure housing Language barriers Financial stress Fears for family and friends who are unsafe Racism, discrirnination and prejudice Trauma Social isolation
reo Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Outcomes and Impact Thanks to the deterniination of our clients, dedication of our teams, and the support of our volunteers, partners and donors, 2024-25 was a record-breaking year for Breaking Barriers. Across our Employability, Language and Re-accreditation Programmes, we supported o total of 1,450 clients. This is more than any previous year, and 16% higher than 2023-24. 2024-25 olso sow 612 clients achieve o record 904 positive outcomes on their employment journeys. These outcomes include starting jobs, achieving education or training goals. or entering volunteering- which can help refugees to gain UK work experience, practise English and integrote into their new communities. The number of outcomes is 0 27% increase on 2023-24. And the percentoge of clients achieving ot least one outcome olso increased, from 38% in 2023-24 to 42% in 2024-25. Here, we highlight some of the key factors behind these f igures, before exploring our clients, employment. education and training outcomes in more detail. Client outcomes by year iooo 904 800 692 715 0 600 239 z 200 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 Employment Education and Training Volunteering
mpac eport Our corporate partners We believe in the power of responsible business to change society for the better. And our corporate partnerships can help to meet the needs of refugees at various stages of their employment journey. Our partners provide critical funding for our services, free access to training and other re50urces. employment opportunities and, in manycases, hands-on assistance for refugees. In 2024-25, 192 clients were supported in 41 group recruitment and skills sessions delivered by 29 of our corporate partners. These included.. 85% of clients giving feedback on workshops felt their confidence applying forjobs and their understanding of the UK workforce had increased. 84% also felt that the workshops had increased their job interview confidence. Jobs fairsthatcreateopportunities for clientsto connect directlywith arange of local employers Insight se55ions on sectors as diverse as law, health care, and green jobs Laura Mountain, Head of Foundation, Social Value & Sustainability, City & Guilds Foundation Employability workshops on topics ranging from Cvs to transferable skills and using Al in job searches. 66 Working with partners like Breaking Barriers is absolutely critical for achieving our social impact goals. We simply couldn't do it viithout them. Clients may join individual sessions. or a pathway of events focused on building knowledge and experience of a particular sector. These pathways can also lead directly to paid work experience for our clients. 99
reo Ing arriers mpa epo Breaking Barriers with Macquarie 66 At Macquarie, we're passionate about driving social impact through both our financial and non-financial resources. We recognise that many people face systemic barriers to employment, so much of the Macquarie Group Foundation's support focuses on building effective pathways into work. Given this, working with Breaking Barriers felt like a perfect fit. We began our collaboration with three main goals.. To support refugees by funding Breaking Barriers, employment and education programmes Rochel Engel, Regional Director of the Macquarie Group Foundation This unique, non-profit-led initiative offers a safe space for collaboration, allowing us to share best practices and increase our collective impact. Reflecting on the past year, the personal stories of refugees like Fatima and Nanou, frorn Breaking Barriers, Lived Experience Panel, have been especially inspiring. These stories bring the data on employment barriers and Support programmes to life, reinforcing the importance of listening to those with lived experience. Meaningful collaboration has been key to success. By respecting each partner's expertise and including refugees in decision-rnaking, we have created a truly impactful partnership. We encourage our employees to engage in way5 that suit them best, whether through workshops, mentoring, or fundraising challenges with matched donations. To contribute directly to individuals achieving employment outcomes To grow national support through skills-based volunteering within Macquarie. The immense challenges refugees face, from language barriers to lack of UK work experience. make them around three times more likely to be unemployed than UK-born individuals. Such challenges can't be fixed overnight. But we are proud to have supported the achievements of many Breaking Barriers, clients. Our CV and Interview Skills workshop, led by volunteers from Macquarie. showed how meaningful direct connections with refugees can be for all involved This was demonstrated more recently at Employer Insight Sessions. where Macquarie employees shared their personal employment journeys, and offered advice to attendees. In summary, if your company seeks to address systemic employment barriers and support motivated, talented individuals, a collaborative partnership with refugees could be the right fit. Being part of Breaking Barriers, Business Behind Refugees movement has connected us with like- minded companie5 across sector5. 99
mpac eport Volunteering Volunteers play a vital role in We supported 500 clientsto access supporting Breaking Barriers, clients. education opportunities in 2024-25. In 2024-25 this included workshop volunteering Because of the integration of the by corporate partner employees, volunteer-led. one-to-one employability sessions covering Language Programme, this was an everything from job searches to interview increase of 55% comparedto practice. and longer-term relationships between 2023-24, and morethantriple the clients ond a volunteertutor or mentor. number of clients in2021-22. The education support offered during the year omprised o mix of education classes delivered in-house and structured English courses offered by our UK-wide network of partner longuage sch¢x)Is, universities and online learning platforms. Education classes Volunteer tutoring is allied primarily with our Language Programme. It pairs teachers with refugees who need one-on-one support to develop their English language skills to enter employment or education. Mentoring is an estoblished port of Breaking Barriers. work. It connects clients with someone who has experience in a particular role or sector, or who is able to give guidance to help them progress into a better role. With the integration of the Re-occreditation Programme, we are also excited to be partnering with the CIPD Trust, whose commitmentto opening doors for refugees through mentoring and professional development has transformed lives. Together, we connect refugee professionals with experienced UK-based volunteers who provide not only career guidance but also encouragement ond confidence. helping refugees believe in the possibility of rebuilding meaningful careers in the UK. Clients participating in education programmes 500 500 400 322 Jolie, 500 Breaking Barriers volunteer 272 Volunteering atBreakingBarriers broadened myownworldoutlook andgave me abetterunderstandingofthe hurdles faced byrefugees inthe UK. Iwas humbledbythe experiencesthe clientshad been through and the challenges theyhad overcome to gettothe start of theirlife in theUK. Their resilience impressed me greatly. 200 166 loo 99
mpac eport Fiona Dunlo Principal at Wim School of English ledon 66 Wimbledon School of English has a long and rewarding history working with the Language Programme, which was part of RefuAid and is now part of Breaking Barriers. We have offered nearly 100 scholarships to students from the programme since 2016 and look forward to welcoming many more. We have had so many positive results from the students coming to study with us over the years. They are always inspirational and driven, bringing so much to our student body and to the school in general. We are hurnbled by their stories, their efforts and their progress as we see them making friends, achieving academic goals and rebuilding study journeys or careers. We thank Breaking Barriers for all that it does in allowing us to support these students. Its support and hard work makes this happen so seamlessly. All in all, it's a great partnership, building something positive in the lives of those in need of a little support, through no fault of their own. 99
reo Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Employment related outcomes The top three sectors for employment outcomes were.. Despite a challenging economic climate, our teams were proud to support 219 clients to achieve 269 newjobs in 2024-25. Wholesale and retail Accommodation and Food Health and social work Client employment outcomes by sector In 2024-25, our clients secured jobs in a wide ronge of industries. from construction ond engineering to the arts and entertainment. But almost three-quarters gained positions in just eight sectors. Top sectors for clients. new jobs 70 IOOYO 60 80% 50 600 40 30 40Yo 20 20% io Oyo umber of employment outeornes Cumulative % of employment outcomes
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun How does this compare Role seniority to the UK population as and contracts a whole? Despite our clients, often high levels The proportionof BreakingBarriers of experience andeducation, the clients enteringjobs inthe majorityof newjobs achieved in accommodation and services sectors 2024-25byclients on our is significantly higher than the EmployabilityProgrammewere proportion of UKworkers inthese atajunior level- with70% of industries. Our clients were also rolesbeing either entrylevel over-represented inwholesale and or internships. retail roles, following a-30A under- This may indicate underemployment, with representation relative to the UK refugees being overqualified for thejob they workforce in2023-24. hold. But, for many clients, such roles representa valuable stepping-stone towards their long-term employmentgools. For example, allowing them to build their English skills or gain UK experience whilstcompleting education ortraining. More than o third of our clients, employment outcomes in 2024-25 were permanentjobs, while 31% were temporary roles and 26% were zero- hours controcts. The sectors our clients entered at the lowest rate relative to overall UK employment were professional, scientif ic & technical activities. and administrative & support services. But, with the integration of the Language and Re- occreditation Programmes. previous under- representation in health & social work (-5% in 2023-24) ond education (-4% in 2023-24) largely disappeared in 2024-25. Again, some clients will have been seeking fixed- term or flexible employment to fitaround education. fomily orother commitments. But, for others, a lack of income security may presenta challenge, ond is one of the reasons refugees can benefit from oursupport even afterthey've ochieved their first employment in the UK. Client employment outcomes by sector vs the UK workforce Accommodalion & food service activities orher service activilies Whole501e & retoil trode. repair of molor vehides ond motorcydes Tron5porl & storoge Information & communication Eltrtricity. gos. steam & air conditioning supply Mining & quarrying Private households Woter suppty, seweroge, waste & remediation activities Art5, entertainment & recrealion Education AgricuFrure, forestry & fishing Human health & social work activities Real estale oclivities Financial & insurance activities Public admin & defence. compulsory social security Construction ManufacrIng
341 Breaking Barriers Impact Report 2023-2024 Thomas, story 66 Myname isThomas and I'mfromHongKong. ImovedtotheUKin September2023 andnowlive in Manchester. Like many people starting over in a new country, I knewI needed to findwork, but I didn't know wheretobegin. Everything feltunfamiliar: housing, the weather, eventhe lifestyle. Itwas overwhelming. Rebecca supported me with applications and interview practice and, as a result, I got the internship. Just four weeks in, IKEA offered me a permanent contract for a Sales Coworker position. I never imagined that I could be so successful. Having meaningful employment means so much to me. At work, I enjoy talking to customers, answering their questions, and even having small chats about life. It brings me satisfaction and helps me feel part of the community. It's also improved my mental health and given me the confidence to explore new opportunities. Since receiving support from Breaking Barriers, I leel my life has changed quite a lot. l joined a football refereeing course and now work part-time as a referee, taking part in more local activities to integrate into the city. My next goal is to pass my driving test. If I do, I'd love to return to my previous career - I worked as a postman for almost 10 years in Hong Kong. I d like to bring that experience here, continue to build a life in the UK, and contribute my skills and abilities to the local community. I first heard about Breaking Barriers through Manchester City Council. I received one-to-one support from Rebecca. my adviser at Breaking Barriers, who guided me through everything. She helped me to improve my CV and cover letter writing skills, prepare for interviews, and feel more confident overall. In the autumn of 2024, Breaking Barriers partnered with IKEA to offer places on an eight-week internship. 99 Watch a video interview with Thomas on breakin -bo rriers.co.uk
rea Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun Education and training outcomes Connecting education and training to jobs Accessing education or training is vital to many of our clients, employment goals. Many of our clients, education and training outcomes are either in a subject specific to a particular industry, or a language qualification taken by a client seeking to enter that sector in the UK. We measure a range of outcomes in this area. From accessing entry-level digitol skills courses and professional development training, to possing vocational qualif ications or formal English language tests and securing places on university courses. Our clients achieved o phenomenol 584 positive education and training outcomes in 2024-25. This represents 0 660A increase on 2023-24, associated primorily with our Language and Re-accreditation Programmes. It's also worth highlighting that these programmes were integrated into Breaking Barriers in December 2024, so only six months, outcomes are included in this 2024-25 report. In 2024-25. over 40% of all our clients, education and training outcomes were reloted to health, public services & care. Other common sectors included business. administration & low, educotion & training, engineering & manufacturing, and science & mathematics. Top 10 sectors for education and training outcomes Health, public services & Care 41% Business, administration & law 8% Education & troining 5Yo Science & mathematics 5Yo Engineering & manufacturing 5Yo Construction. planning & built environment 4% Languages. literature & culture Tech Arts. medio. marketing & publishing Finance & accountoncy 20% 30% 40% 50%
rea Ing arrier5 mpa epo Oleksii's story 66 Of allthe support Breaking Barriers provided, the mostvaluable opportunityfor me was the fully funded course arrangedin partnership withBARBRI andLinklaters. Itincluded a preparation course forthe Solicitors Qualifying Examination ISOEI) and a funded place fortheexamitself. lappliedandwas fortunate to be awarded one oftheplaces. To further support mypreparation, I was matchedwith a mentorwhowas a Managing Associate at Linklaters. Duringourone-to-one sessions, she generouslysharedherown experience ofsitting the exam, helped me navigate complex aspects of the material. and reinforced mybeliefthatwith dedicationand hard work, anything is achievable... In January2025,1 successfullypassed the SQEI exam, bringing me one step closerto qualifying as a solicitor inEngland andwales. To helpyouunderstand howmeaningfulthis achievement is to me, Iwouldlike to shareabitof mypersonal story. On23 February2022,1 had my firstcourt trial as a qualified advocate in Ukraine. I still rememberdelivering myclosing speech- itwas shakyand rushed due to nerves, butl wonthe case. 11. Ii'i• However. thevery next morning. life changed complefelyforme and for millions ofukrainians when Russialaunched its full-scale invasion of Ukraineand left an indelible markon an entire generation. Everything that had matteredjust a daybefore suddenlyfelt meaningless, and the future became painfullyuncertain. When I arrived inthe UK. I neverimagined I wouldhave the opportunitytoworkin litigation again, let alone pursue qualification as a solicitor. Now, it feels not onlypossible- itfeels real. l am genuinelygratefulforthe support and encouragement I have received onthi5 incrediblejourney. 99
reo Ing arriers nnua eport an ccoun What our clients say 66 Maybe mostofus asylum seekers or refugees feel at some pointfrustrated, disappointed, orworriedthat maybewe won'tgetajob. Butwhenyou cometo organisations like Breaking Barriers, they helpyou and provide support. I thinkthat changes everything. We use an impact surveyto understandthebenefitsthat our support is bringing to clients in helpingthem achieve their career goals., In 2024-25, the responsesto this surveyshowed: - Baldomero 99 88% of clients increased their confidence in achieving their goals 81% of clients believed their chances of starting a new job had increased 85% of clients reported increased confidence during job interviews 90% of clients reported an improved understanding of their preferred sector of work 66 I have alreadyfound my nextsteps andnewjoband lamhappy. Iwantto thank Breaking Barriers forgiving me a chance.The feeling of having someonewho truly stood bymyside and genuinelywanted to help. made me feel like I wasn't fighting alone... A newcomer inthe UK might not have the meansto find employment opportunities. but Breaking Barriers gives usachance. These insights are vital to help us meosure the personal impactof our support beyond the employment, education, training and volunteering outcomes our clients ochieve. And, just as importantto us as data, is the individual feedback we receive from clients. About the changes to their lives, and the impact that Breaking Borriers, our partners and supporters hove hod on their employment journey. Michelle 99 66 Iwantto say a special thanks tothis organisation and appreciate my adviser, Abdul. He is areal angel inmylife. I can'tcomparehow I feel nowto around six months ago. l owe my situation to him and Breaking Barriers. God blessyouall and I hope toreach mygoals to showyou howyou impacted mypersonallife and career. Thankyou all. This imptsctsurveyis sentata timepointagreed between the client ondtheir EmploymeniAdviser when the clientenrols with us. The timing will vorydepending on howmuch the clientisable to engage with our servicesand what the clients goals are. but the usual time foraclient to receive the surveyisoround three morpths after thèirenrolmenr. - Mahmood 99
mpac eport Looking ahead With demand for our services rising, ourmissionis more urgentthan ever. Theworld aroundus presents real challenges, from hostile rhetoric aboutrefugees to shrinking funding and the rollback of DEI initiatives. These pressures make ourwork harder,but also underline justhow vital it is. And we're exploring the transformative potential of AI - investing in our ability to harness this evolving technology responsibly in service of our mission. Our vision is for Breaking Barriers to support many more refugees. in more communities. across the UK. Helping them to achieve their careergoals and build new lives. And we want to see more businesses realise thot hiring refugees isn't just morally right, it enriches workplaces and is smart economics. The UK stands to gain enormously from the skills, perspectives and resilience ref ugees bring. Thankfully, we're supported by o powerful coolition of individuals. funders. employers. and allies who not only invest in our mission but help creote real opportunities for refugees. It's powerful to imagine a future where Breaking Borriers is no longer needed because refugees foce o truly level playing field in the UK labour market. That remains our aspiration. But, until that time comes. we'll stand firmly beside each of our clients on theirjourney towards meaningful employment. And, together, we'll keeping breaking down the barriers refugees face to building a new life. Our donors ond corporote portners re¢ognise that not everyone starts from the same place and thot meaningful change requires rethinking systems to address structural inequality. Thot's why we work with employers to build inclusive pathways into work, and celebrate those who lead by exomple, In 2025-26, we'll continue growing a network of like-minded organisations and businesses who shore our volue5 and commitment to driving change. Whether through advocacy or direct collaboration, collective effort remains one of our greatest strengths. We're also excited to welcome new trustees to our board, bringing f resh insight, lived experience. ond strategic leadership to ensure Breaking Barriers continuesto thrive. evolve. and deliver lasting impact. Looking ahead, we'll continue to adapt our services to meet refugees. needs in a changing job market. We're reviewing how we monitorand evaluate our outcomes and impact for clients.
mpac eport Trustees, Annual Report For the year ended 31 May 2025 The Trustees presenttheir reportand financial statements forthe year ended 31 May 2025. The Trustees confirmthat the financial statements complywiththe current statutoryrequirements, the memorandum and articles of association, andthe Statementof Recommended Practice- Accounting and Reportingbycharities: SORP applicableto charities preparingtheiraccounts in accordancewith FRS 102. Objectives and Activities At Breaking Borriers, we deliver on our charitable objectives through our Employability Programme, and new Language ond Re-occreditation Progrommes, which were integroted from partner charity RefuAid in December 2024. Breaking Barriers was set up to support refugees into meaningful employment. The objects set out in our governing document are as follows,. Our Employobility Programme offers personalised one-to-one support to people of o refugee bockground seeking to work in the UK. We run these appointments in person, via video call or over the phone. We also work with businesses from a wide range of industries. Our partners collaborate with us to build refugees. employability skills through workshops. mentoring ond sector specific employment pathways, as well as opening up job opportunities to our clients. Working with English languoge teaching institutions across the country, our Language Progromme offers refugees structured tuition to help them achieve a high level of English or gain the language qualifications they need to enter UK higher education or employment. The Re-accreditation Programme provides expert guidance to help refugees who have internotional qualif icotions to achieve the certifications they need to re-enter their chosen field in the UK. To advance the education and training of those granted refugee status, their dependonts and those seeking asylum in the United Kingdom so as to odvance them in life and assist them to adapt within a new community. The relief of unemployment and financial hardship of those granted refugee status. their dependants and those seeking asylum in the United Kingdom, bythe provision of vocational skills training. advice and support: To advance the education of the public in general about the issues relating to refugees and those seeking asylum., and The promotion of social inclusion for the public benefit among people who are refugees, their dependants or those seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. who are socially excluded on the grounds of their social ond economic position.
mpac eport Public benefit When planning Breaking Barriers, activities each year, the Trustees take due regard of the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit. 2024-25 olso marked the 10th year since our inception. during which time we have supported 3,848 clients on theirjourney to meaningful employment. In our first decade. we recorded o total of 3.540 positive outcomes for our clients including 1,558 new jobs, 1,663 outcomes in education and training, and 319 volunteering roles. Within the constraint of resources. ond subject to any eligibility criteria for a specif ic service, Breaking Barriers, services, described above, are available to all refugees and people of refugee background. Services are offered without charging fees. Our work to help refugees gain meaningful employment is o key contributor to integration for refugees themselves and for members of the host population. Weare proud of all that we. ond our clients. have achieved during this post financial year. Particularly against a challenging external bockdrop. which has included increasing economic uncertainty. changes to DEI approaches in the business world, and a shifting politicol londscope. Responding to this world in flux. ond to ensure our long-term stability, we made the decision to reduce our cost base ogainst original plans. Simultaneously, we refreshed our Theory of Change and commenced work on a new Monitoring and Evoluotion Fromework. We olso progressed activity to adapt our service model to meet growing need in a sustainable way, with sharper ombitions to reach more people in more ploces across the UK. Additional information on our achievements and performance is on pages 10 to 37 of this report. Achievements and performance 2024-25 has been amomentousyear forBreaking Barriers.We integrated partner charityRefuAid's Language and Re-accreditationProgrammes into ourservice offering, expanding ourexpertise andgeographic reach to support more refugees across the country. Together, our Employability. Language and Re-accreditation Programmes increased our impact, and allowed us to reach 1,450 clients. This is a 16% increase on the number of clients we supported in 2023-24 ond the highest number we have supported in any single year to date. Our clients also achieved more positive outcomes in employment. education ond volunteering. with support from our teams, 42% achieved a positive outcome, which is 4% more than the financial year before.
mpac eport Financial Review Fortheyearended31May2025, Breaking Barriers made a surplus of £0.14m (FY24: £0.25mdeficit). Despite the challenging external backdrop, we raised income of £3.60m(FY24: £3.87m}adecreaseof 70A from the last financial year. Tnve5tmerbt & troding 0.5% Matched funding & other activities 12% stotulory funding 5% nerol dor05 3% Corporate partnerships Income from donations reduced slightly to £2,96m (FY24: £2.99m), and income from charitable activities reduced to £0.63m {FY24: £0.88m). These reductions are due to a numberof Statutory and corporate partnerships coming to an end, which were partly offset by increased income from trusts and foundations, butthe external fundraising environment 15 challenging for all charities. In this context, a 7% reduction in our income is a good result. We have a diversity of income streams, and diversity of donors within those streams. With income split as follows: l. Income from corporate partnerships £1.04m (FY24,' £1.61m) 2. Income from trusts and foundotions £1.80m (FY24: £1.17m) 3. Income from general donations and donoted gifts and services £0.12m (FY24: £0.21m) 4. Statutory funding £0.19m (FY24: £0.78m) 5. Matched funding grants and other charitable activities £0.44m (FY24'. £0.IOm) 6. Investment income and trading activities £O.Olm (FY24: £0.Olm) Tru5t5 and foundation5 Total expenditure reduced to £3.46m (FY24: £4.12m), as the challenging external backdrop led to us making changes to the Services team structure to improve efficiency and the sustoinability of the model, Expenditure on roising funds was £0.68m, which was a reduction on the previous year (FY24'. £0.82m) and represented 19.5Vo (FY24.' 19.9%) of totol expenditure. Our support COSts also reduced to £0.55m (FY24: £0.66m), which represented 15.8Yo (FY24.' 16.OVo) of total expenditure.
mpac eport Reserves Future plans At Breaking Barriers, our reserves policy is to maintain a general fund, which represents three months of forward expenditure. At 31 May 2025. our general fund had a balance of £1.12m, representing 3.0 months. expenditure {FY24- £I.OOm representing 3.4 months. expenditure). Having marked 10 years since the start of our mission. and in the context of signif icant changes to both the externol environment and thejob market our clients face, we are embarking upon the process of creating a new multi-year strategy. The foundations for this strategy have already been laid. with the refresh of our Theory of Change, the development of new strategic principles ond the ongoing work on a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework that will enable us to better track the impact of our progrommes on the lives of our refugee clients. In the coming months, we will be weaving these stronds of activity together, and consulting with our Lived Experience Panel, clients, funders, partners and supporters, to launch a strategy that will drive even greater impoct for the community thot we serve. We look forward to publishing the new strategy in 2026. Going concern The Trustees have considered the charity's obility to continue as o going concern for a period of at least 12 months from the date of signing the accounts (to the period to Decem- ber 2026). Our annual budget for FY26 covers the period to May 2026. This sets out our plons to evolve our service delivery offering, heightening our emphasis on quality outcomes and improving our Monitoring ond Evaluation Fromework. As part of the budget setting process, we re- viewed our cash flow and planned reserves position for the year. Robust monitoring is in place to ensure that we remain liquid, and currently we are able to draw down on our reserves quickly. ensuring we are able to react to a downturn immediately. Whilst the current economic climate remains uncertain, we are confident thot we will be able to meet our plans. Taking into account our current cash position. our forecast, and our principol risks. the Trustees are confident we will continue in operation and will be able to meet our liabilities when they fall due over the medium term. Therefore, the Board have decided to adoptthe going concern basis of accounting in preparing these financiol statements.
mpac eport Principal risks and uncertainties The Board is responsible for ensuringthatwehave effective risk management andthat internal systems are inplaceto understand our risk appetite and manage the major risks we are exposedto. Currentlythe Senior Leadership Team review risks on a monthly basis, with the Fundraising. Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-committee meeting on a quarterly basis to review the risk register, and the whole Board undertaking an onnual review. Our key risks and their mitigations are summarised in the table below.. Risk Hostile societal ond politicol environment, with rising tensions around migration having o negative impact on our clients and staff. itigations Reviewing and strengthening office security protocols, updating lone working policies and providing training and support for clients. staff and volunteers. Enhanced event security planning, including risk assessments and incident response procedures. Monitoring and reporting of hate incidents ond threats; liaising with law enforcement as needed. Increased staff owareness and support oround personal safety and wellbeing. Communicoting prooctively with stokeholders obout steps taken to ensure safety. Engaging with sector networks to shore intelligence ond best practice. Pace of change impacts stoff morole Tailored chonge management and engagement Focussing on wellbeing, supervision, development and connection to mission, and between teams Secure pro bono training opportunities to support and develop staff
mpac eport Board of Trustees Meet3x a year including annual strategy day Finance & Fundraising Sub-committee Strategy Sub-committee Meet 3x a year Meet3x a year Structure, governance and management Related parties and relationships with other organisations The charity is governed by o 8oard of Trustees who oversee the strategy, direction, performance and risks of the organisation. They do this by approving budgets. operotional plans and key organisational policies. They also review our finance performance, risk register, fundraising income and portfolio of donors. our impact data and feedback from beneficiaries. Day-to-day management of the charity is delegated by the Trustees to the CEO, supported by their Senior Leadership Teom. This group meets weekly to review income, expenditure and cashflow, HR metrics and to monitor organisational risks. It also reviews any other matter that might materially impactthe f inancial position or reputation of the charity ond where necessary notifies the Trustees of any issues arising. Trustees are chosen for their expertise and commitment to support refugees. Potential new Trustees are identified through open search. All candidates submit an application with o CV and personal statement and, following interviews, appointments are approved by majority vote of existing Trustees. A formal induction plan is in place to ensure that new Trustees ore fully informed about their responsibilities, and have a clear understanding of the charity's purpose. its current position and the key questions they will need to address. The charity has one subsidiary undertaking, Breaking Barriers Trading Ltd. which is wholly owned by the charity and was established in 2018. The results of Breaking Barriers Trading Ltd are fully consolidoted in these occounts. Breaking Barriers Trading Ltd has a resource shoring ogreement with the charity through which the company poys for an equitable share of the administrative services needed to ensure that business activity is compliont with oll appropriate and relevant standards, There was no activity in Breaking Barriers Trading Ltd this year. There are currently no plons for the Trading subsidiary. and if this remains the same for the foreseeable future, we will make the organisotion dormant until required. No loans have been made bythe charity to the trading subsidiary. There are no formal relationships between the charity and any other organisation. Remuneration policy for key management personnel Annual payawards forthe organisation are approved by the Board. The Board considers the CEO and the rest of the Senior Leadership Team's salaries separately. taking into account performance, level of individual responsibility and external benchmarking. Trustee terms are fixed terms of three years with optional extensions.
mpac eport Responsible Fundraising Statement Breaking Barriers has a deliberately diverse portfolio of donors, of which no donor represents more than20% of ourincome. Breaking Barriers. objective is to achieve as wide a range of income sources as possible in order to reduce the relionce on any one stream of income and to protect the charity from being unable to fulf il its objectives. Currently, income is received from businesses, statutory sources, charitable trusts and foundations, and individuals (through the promotion of one-off and recurring gifts, legacies, and independent fundroising octivities). We fundroise principally through online marketing and advertising and, with organisations, through direct approoches to or from relevant business and grant manogement functions. Weare registered with the Fundraising Regulotor ond ensure thot we adhere to the standards set out in the Code of Fundraising Practice. We are committed to treating everyone fairly and with respect. We take privacy seriously and are transporent about how we collect, store and use personal data to help us eorn the trust ond confidence of all those who ore part of our community. Full details of our approach to personal data use con be found in our Privocy Policy on our website. In respect of our public fundraising, Breaking Borriers has a policy and related processes in place to assist and protect people who may be in a vulnerable circumstance. This policy is ovailable vio the privocy statement on our website. In FY2S we received no comploints directly related to our fundraising practices. We provide details on how to contoct us. including our complaints policy and procedure, on our website. In FY25 Breaking Barriers did not have relationships with any commercial porticipotors.
mpac eport Statement of responsibilities of the Trustees The Trustees are responsible forpreparing theTrustees' reportandthe financial statements in accordancewith applicable lawandunited Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102: The Financial Reporting Standard applicable inthe UK and Republic ofIreland (United Kingdom GenerallyAcceptedAccountingPractice). The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare finonciol statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources. including the income and expenditure, of the charity for that period. In preparing these finonciol stotements, the Trustees ore required to: Select suitoble accounting policies and then apply them consistently. Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP., Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; State whether opplicable UK Accounting Standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any materiol departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and Prepare the financiol statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that 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 and the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. They are olso responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence fortaking reasonable steps forthe prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The Trustees are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financiol information included on the charity's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. If the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) is wound up, the members of the CIO have no liability to contribute to its assets and no personal responsibility for settling its debts ond liabilities. The Trustees are members of the charity. but this entitles them only to voting rights. The Trustees have no beneficial interest in the charity. Auditors G¢)dfrey Wilson were appointed as the auditors of the charity in FY22 and have expressed their willingness to continue in that copacity. The Trustees, Annual Report has been approved by the Trustees on 16 December 2025 and signed on their behalf by: Alba Lamberti. Choir of Trustees
mpac eport Independent auditors, report to the members and trustees of Breaking Barriers Opinion We have audited the f inancial statements of Breaking Barriers (the'parent charity,) and its subsidiary (the'group.) for the year ended 31 May 2025 which comprise the consolidated statement of financial activities, consolidated and parent charity balance sheet. consolidated statement of cash flows and the related notes to the financial statements, including o 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 Proctice). In our opinion, the financial statements: give a true and fair view of the state of the group and parent charity's affairs as at 31 May 2025 ond of the group's incoming resources and applicotion of resources, including its income ond expenditure. for the yeor then ended; have been properly prepared in accordon¢e with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 and Charities and Trustees Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and regulation 8 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAS (UK)) ond opplicable law. Our responsibilities underthose standards ore further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the oudit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the group and parent charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevantto our oudit of the financial statements in the VK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and the provisions available for small entities, 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 approprioteto provide a bosis for our opinion. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditing the financial statements, we hove 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 orconditions that. individually orcollectively. may cast significant doubt on the group and parent charity'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.
mpac eport Other information The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and ourauditor's reportthereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assuronce conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial stotements. our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, considerwhether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial stotements orour 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 misstotement in the finonciol statements or o 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 ore required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regord. Matters on which we are required to report by exception We have nothing to report in respect of the following motters in relotion to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006 require us to report to you if, in our opinion: the information given in the trustees. report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements. or sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or the finonciol stotements are not in ogreement with the occounting records.. or • we have not obtained all the information and explonations we require forour oudit. Responsibilities of the trustees As explained more fully in the trustees. responsibilities statement set out in the trustees. report, the trustees are responsible forlhe preparation of the financial statements ond for being satisfied that they give a true and foir view. and for such internal control as they 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 forassessing the group and parent charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern ond using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidatethe group orthe parent charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
mpac eport Our responsibilities for the audit of the f inancial statements We have been appointed os auditor under section 151 of the Charities Act 2011 ond section 44(1)(c) of the Charities and Trustee Investment(Scotland) Act 2005 and report in accordance with the Acts and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder. Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance aboutwhether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement. whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report thot includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assuronce 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 orise from fraud or errorand 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 financiol 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 procedures we carried out ond the extent to which they ore copable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, are detailed below: (l) We obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory fromework that the charity operates in, and assessed the risk of non-compliance wilh applicable laws ond regulations. Throughout the audit. we remoined alert to possible indicotions of non-compliance. (2> We reviewed the charity's policies and procedures in relation to: Identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations, and whether they were owore of ony instonces of non-complion¢e' Detecting and responding to the risk of fraud, and whether they were aware of ony actual, suspected or olleged froud. ond Designing and implementing internal controls to mitigate the risk of non- compliance with lows and regulotions, including fraud. (3) We inspected the minutes of trustee meetings. (4) We enquired about any non-routine communication with regulators and reviewed any reports madeto them. (5) We reviewed the financial statement disclosures ond assessed theircompliance with applicable laws and regulations. (6) We performed analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected tronsoctions or balonces thot may indicote a risk of material fraud or error. (7) We assessed the risk of fraud through management override of controls and carried out procedures to address this risk. Our procedures included: Testing the appropriateness of journal entries. Assessing judgements and accounting estimates for potential bias. Reviewing related party transactions; and Testing transactions that ore unusual or outsidethe normal course of business.
mpac eport Because of the inherent limitations of an audit. there is a riskthat we will not detect all irregulorities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the f inancial statements or non-compliance with regulation. Irregularities that arise due to fraud can be even harder to detect than those that arise from error 05 they may involve deliberate concealment orcollusion. A further description of our responsibilities for the oudit of the finonciol statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website ot: www.frc.org.uk/auditors responsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report. Use of our report This report is made solely to the charity's trustees. as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulotions 2008, and Regulation 10 of the Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006. Ouraudit work hos been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees 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 charity's trustees as a body, for our audit work, forthis report, or for the opinions we have formed. Date: 16th December 2025 Godfrey Wilson Limited Chartered accountants and statutory auditors 5th Floor Mariner House 62 Prince Street Bristol BSI 4QD Godfrey Wilson Limited is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity byvirtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006.
mpac eport Financial statements Consolidated statement of financial activities For the year ended 31 May 2025 2025 2024 Unrestricted Restricted | Total Note £ Total Income from: Donations Charitable activities Investment income other trading activities Total income 1,485.993 455,292 10.229 1,739 1,953,253 1,471,996 172,949 2,957,989 628.241 10,229 1.739 3,598,198 2,986,655 876,496 7,286 1,644,945 3,870,435 Expenditure on: Raising f unds Choritable octivities Total expenditure (675,811) (1.158.822) (1,624,202) (1.834.633) (1.624,202) (675,811) (2,783,024) {3,458.835) (819,903) (3,299,875) (4,119,778) Net income/(expenditure) and movement in funds 118.620 20.743 139.363 (249,343) Reconciliation of fvnds: Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 1,003,559 1.122,159 636,104 656.847 1,639.643 1,779,006 1,888,986 1,639,643 14 All of the above results are derived from continuing activities. There were no other recognised gains or losses otherthan those stated above. The attached notes form part of these financial statements.
mpac eport Consolidated Balance Sheet For the year ended 31 May 2025 2025 2025 2024 | 2024 Note £ Current asset& Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 284.476 1.716.924 2,001,400 285,610 1,629,735 1.915.345 Liabilities: Creditors: amounts folling due within one year io (222.594) (275,702) Net current assets 1.779.006 1,639,643 Total net assets 13 1,779,006 1,639,643 Funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds: Designated funds General funds 14 656,847 636,104 1.122.159 1,003,539 Total unrestricted funds 1,122,159 1,003,539 Total funds 1.779,006 1,639,643 Approved by the Trustees on 16th December 2025 and signed on their behalf by: 4 LaKibérti Alba Lamberti, Chair of Trustees The attached notes form part of the financial statements.
mpac eport Charity Balance Sheet For the year ended 31 May 2025 2025 2025 | 2024 2024 Note £ Fixed assets: Investment 18 Current asset& Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 306,305 1.700.547 2,006,652 316.054 1,603,582 1,919.636 Liabilities: Creditors: amounts folling due within one year io (222.044) (275,691) Net current assets 1.784.608 1,643,945 Total net assets 1,784,609 1,643,946 Funds Restricted funds Unrestricted funds: Designated funds General funds Total unrestricted funds 14 656,847 636,104 1,127,762 1,007.842 1.127,762 1,007,842 Total funds 1,784.609 1,643,946 Approved by the Trustees on 16th December 2025 and signed on their behalf by: A Lakrfbgrti Albq Lamberti. Chair of Trustees The attached notes form part of the financial statements.
mpac eport Consolidated statement of cash flows For the year ended 31 May 2025 2025 2024 Cash flows from operating activitie Net movement in funds Decrease in debtors Increose/(decrease) in creditors Dividends, interest and rents from investments Net cash provided by operating activities 139.363 1,134 (S3.308) (10,229) (249.343) 263,272 48,790 (7,286) 55,433 Cash flows from investing activities: Dividends, interest ond rents from investments Net cash provided by investing activities 10,229 10.229 7,286 7,286 Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year 87,189 62,719 Cash and cash equivalents atthe beginning of the year 1.629,735 1,567,016 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 1,716,924 1,629,735 The charily has not provided an anglysis of chonges in net debt os it does not have any long term financing arrangemenl5.
mpac eport Notes to the consolidated financial statements For the year ended 31 May 2025 Note l Accounting policies General Information and basis of preparation Breaking Barriers is a charitable compony limited by guarantee registered in Englond and Wales and olso registered in Scotlond. The registered office oddress is 71-91 Aldwych, Aldwych House, London, WC28 4HN. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financiol Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102- effective l January 2019)- (Charities SORP FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006. The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historicol cost or transaction volue unless otherwise stated in the relevant occounting policy or note. Basis of consolidation These financial statements consolidate the results of the charity and its wholly-owned (controlled) subsidiary on o line by line basis. Transactions and balances between the charity and its subsidiary have been eliminated from the consolidated financial statements. Balances between the two entities ore disclosed in the notes of the chority's balance sheet. A separate SOFA has not been presented for the charilv. Going concern The Trustees consider that there are no material uncertaintie5 aboutthe charity's ability to continue as a going concern. The Trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date thot hove o significant risk of causing o moterial adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liobilities within the next reporting period.
mpac eport Income Income is recognised when the charity hos entitlement to the funds. any performance conditions attached to the income have been met. it is probable thotthe income will be received and that the amount can be meosured reliably. Income from government and other grants, whether'capital. grants or 'revenue' grants, is recognised when the charity has entitlement to the funds. any performance conditions attached to the grants have been met, it is probable that the income will be received ond the amount can be meosured reliably and is not deferred. Income received in advance for the provision of services is deferred until the criterio for income recognition are met. Income from donations and legacies ore gifts from individuals. charitable trusts, corporate partners and other donors that are either unrestricted, restricted to core purposes or general organisotional targets. Income from charitable activities is defined as income earned for discrete services or the achievement of specific outcomes. Income from other trading activities is income from employment related services. These services are invoiced and recognised os revenue when delivered. Donations of gifts, services and facilities Donoted professional services ond donoted facilities ore recognised as income when the charity hos control over the item or received the service, any conditions associated with the donation have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use by the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In occordonce with the Charities SORP (FRS 102), volunteer lime is not recognised so refer to the trustees, annual report for more information about their contribution. On receipt, donated gifts, professional services and donated facilities are recognised on the bosis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the chority would have been willing to poy to obtoin services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market; a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt. Interest receivable Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity: this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the bank. Fund accounting Unrestricted funds are available to spend on activities that furtheranyof the purposes of charity. Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the Trustees have decided at their discretion to set aside to use for o specific purpose. Restricted funds are donations which the donor has specified are to be solely used for particular areas of the charity's work or for specific projects being undertaken by the charity.
mpac eport Expenditure and irrecoverable VAT Expenditure is recognised once there is o legol or constructive obligation to make a paymentto a third party. it is probable that settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classif led under the following activity headings. Costs of raising funds comprise of trading costs and the costs incurred by the charity in inducing third parties to make voluntarycontributions to it, as well as the cost of onyactivities with a fundroising purpose. Expenditure on charitable activities includes the costs of delivering services and other activities undertoken to further the purposes of the charity and their associated support costs. Irrecoverable VAT is charged as a cost against the activity for which the expenditure was incurred. Allocation of support costs Support costs ore those functions thot assist the work of the chority but do not directly undertake charitable activities. Support costs include office costs, finance, personnel, payroll and governance costs which supportthe charity and its octivities. These costs have been ollocated between cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities on the basis of staff time as set out in note 5 to the accounts. Redundancy Where an employee receives a termination benefit the full cost is recognised at the date the employee is notified. Operating leases Rentol charges are chorged on o stroight line bosis over the term of the lease. Investment in subsidiary Investments in subsidiaries ore valued ot cost less provision for impoimient. Tangible fixed assets Items of equipment are capitalised where the purchase price exceeds £1,000. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write down the cost of each osset to its estimoted residuol value over its expected useful life. Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlementamount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. Cash at bank and in hond Cash at bank and cash in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similaraccount.
mpac eport Creditors and provisions Creditors and provisions are recognised where the chority has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions ore normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for ony trade discounts due. Pensions Breaking Barriers operotes o defined contribution pension scheme managed by NEST in accordance with current outo-enrolment rules. Financial instruments The charity only has f inonciol assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic f inancial instruments. Basic finoncial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently recognised ot amortised cost using the effective interest method. Accounting estimates and key judgements In the application of the charity's accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimotes and assumptions about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and underlying assumptions ore bosed on historical experience ond other foctors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates ore recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects onlythat period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision offects both current and future periods. The key sources of estimotion uncertainty thot have a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements are accrued and deferred income adjustments for gronts paid in orreors ond contracts invoiced in advonce, ond the percentages used to ollocate costs to different activities and funds.
mpac eport Note 2 Detailed comparatives for the consolidated statement of financial activities 2024 Unrestricted 2024 Restricted | 2024 | Total Income from: Donations and legacies Charitable activities Investment income 1,629,751 526.559 7,286 1,356,902 349.937 1 2,986,653 876.496 7,286 Total income 2,163,596 1,706,839 3,870,435 Expenditure on: Raising funds Charitable activities (780,520) (1,705,080) (39,383) (1,594,795) (819,903) (3,299,875) Total expenditure (2,485,600) (1,634,178) (4,119,778) Net income/(expendilure) and movement in funds (322.004) 72,661 (249,343) Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forward 1.325.543 1,003,539 563,443 636,104 1.888,986 1,639,643
mpac eport Note 3 Income from donations | Unrestricted 2025 Restricted 2025 | 2025 Corporate partners Trusts and Foundations Donations Donated gifts and services 593,365 773.330 109,544 9.754 1,485,993 447,804 1.024.192 1.041,169 1,797,522 109,544 9,754 2,957,989 1,471,996 Included within ineome from donations tsbove is a dontstion from Prism The Gift Fund to trtsnsfer thè Languagè and Re-accrèditation programmès trom it's charitablè fund, RèfuAid, lo Brèaking Barriers. Donated services income relales to Benefit in Kind for office space and clossrooms for Education classes as well as hotel stays for staff travel. The charily also worked with o number of pariner organisotions to provide free luition to clients via our Language Programme. which are not included in Ihe note above, as they do nol meet our re¢ognition ¢riteri¢ under the relevont o¢¢ounting policy (see note l). Prior period Comparative | Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2024 | Total | 2024 Corporate partners Trusts and Foundations Donations Donated gifts and services 826.326 622,601 135.511 45,313 1,629,751 786.729 542,606 27,567 1,613,055 1.165,207 163,078 45,513 2,986,655 1.356,902 Donated gifls income relates to IT hardware. Donated services income relates lo Benefit in Kind for offiee spoee and elossrooms for Education elosses.
mpac eport Note 4 Income from charitable activities Unrestricted 2025 Restricted 2025 Total 2025 Statutory funding Matched funding grants and other charitable activities Total income from charitable activities 12.489 442.803 172,949 185.438 442,803 455,292 172,949 Thereare no unfulfilledconditions orcontingencies¢JfPachingtothesegrants inthe Currentor piioryear. Prior period comparative (restated) Restated Total 2024 Unrestricted Restricted 2024 2024 SIB controct 491.022 7,509 28,028 491,022 287,446 98,028 Statutory grants Matched funding grants ond other choritable octivities Total income from charitable activities 279,937 70,000 526,559 349,937 876,496 Comparalive figures hove been restated loreonalyse income between unrestricted stotLrtory funding ondother charitoble activityfunding coregofies.This hos no imF)aCton the ineome reported in Ihe Sratementof Finonciol A¢tivities.
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mpac eport Note 6 Net income / (expenditure) for the year This is stated after chorging / (crediting): 2025 2024 Operating lease rentals: Property Auditor's remuneration: Audit fees (137.075) | (179.088) (11,808) (1.759) (13.579) Prioryear under occruol other services {529) (457) Note 7 Analysis of staff costs, trustee remuneration and expenses, and the cost of key management personnel Staff costs were as follows: 202S 2024 Solories ond wages Social security costs Employer's contribution to defined contribution pension schemes Total Staff ¢ost 2,522,812 272.584 2.828.869 290,447 55.748 2,851,144 57,546 3,176.862 The key management personnel of the charity comprised the Trustees, Chief Executive Officer, Director of Finance, Director of Programmes, Director of income and Engagement. Director of People ond our Chief of staff. The totol employee benefits including pension contributions of the key management was £478,973 (2024: £503,925). The charity Trustees were not paid and did not recieve any other benefits from employment with the charity or its subsidiary in the year (2024: £nil) neither were they reimbursed expenses during the year (2024: £nil). No charity Trustee received payment for professional or other services supplied to the charity (2024: £nil).
mpac eport Additionally, within the year £7,429 (2024: £nil) was paid out in redundancy costs during an organisational restructure. The following number of employees received compensation (excluding employer pension ond NI) during the year between: 2025 2024 No. No. £60,000 - £69,999 £70.000 - £79.999 £90,000- £99,999 The average number of employees (head count based on number of staff employed) during the yeor was as follows: 2025 No. 2024 No. Raising funds Charitoble activities 62 73 80 68 Note 8 Taxation The charity is exempt from corporation tox os oll its income is charitoble and opplied for charitable purposes. Note 9 Debtors Group 2025 Charity 2025 2024 2024 Trade debtors Other debtors 130.028 24.251 38.990 170.228 37,584 25.284 130.028 24,251 38,990 22,149 170.228 37,584 25.284 30,444 Prepayments Amounts owed by group undertakings Accrued income Toxotion and sociol Security 90.887 320 284.476 52,514 90.887 52,514 285,610 306 305 316,054
mpac eport Note 10 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Charity 2025 Group 2025 2024 2024 Taxation and social security Accruols Deferred income Trade creditors other creditors 101.717 81,913 112,955 37.544 108,489 8.895 7,819 275.702 101.717 81,563 113,294 37.194 108,489 8.895 7,819 275.691 31,342 7,422 31,342 7.422 Deferred income Group 2025 Charity 2025 2024 2024 Balance at the beginning of the yeor Amount released to income in the year Amount deferred in the year Balance at the end of the yeor (108,489) (3,825) {108,489 (3,825) 108.489 3,825 108,48 3,825 (108,489) (108.489) (108,489) (108,489) Deferred income comprises amounts received in advance forannual programmes and under contracts. Note 11 Contingent liability The charity has engaged a VAT expert to complete an external review of the charity's VAT methodology. The VAT expert has raised a potential issue with how the charity has historically treated output VAT on some of its income streams. The charity is still in the process of quantifying any potential additional VAT liability, so no provision has been included in the accounts for the year ended 31 May 2025, however the potential value could be signif icont.
mpac eport Note 12 Pension scheme Breaking Barriers has a defined contribution scheme operated by NEST. Note 13 Analysis of net assets between funds 2025 General Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Net current assets Net assets at the end of the year 1,122,159 1122,159 656,847 656,847 1.779.006 1779,006 2024 General Unrestricted l Restricted Totol funds Net current assets 1,003,539 1,003,539 636,104 1,639,643 636,104 1,639,643 Net a$set$ at the end of the year Note 14 Movements in funds At the start Note of the year Income At the end of the year Expenditure Transfers Restricted funds: Integration Activities- Employment Ca) Integration Activities - Education (b) Integration Activities - Volunteering (c) Lived Experience (d) Language and Re-accreditation (e) Other (f) Total restricted funds 465,493 1,017,954 (1,077,110) 76.098 90.544 (157,188) 55,935 48,955 (86,585) 22.130 (22.130) 375,458 (211,435) 16.448 112.034 (69.754) 636 104 1644 945 (1624 202) 406,337 9,454 18,305 164,023 58.728 656 847 Unrestricted funds: General funds Total unrestricted funds 1,003.559 1,953.253 (1,834,633) 1003 539 1953 253 (1834 633) 1.122,159 1 122 159 Total funds 1639 643 3 598 198 (3 458 835) 1779 006
mpac eport Purposes of restricted funds We have received income restricted to the following purposes: (o) Employment integration activities seeks to upskill clients for employment through one-to-one information, advice and guidance sessions. This hos been offered in five locations- London. Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow. (b) Education integration activities supports clients to increase employment prospects with English language classes and digital skills training. (c) Volunteering activities across our service areos supports the work of Breaking Barriers in delivering specialist skills ond support. (d) To strengthen our decision moking we engage a panel of Lived Experience Consultants to advise on key organisational initiatives. (e) To implement the integration of our new Language and Re- accreditation programmes which were transferred from RefuAid in December 2024- continuing the delivery of activities which support clients to develop the necessary language skills for professional communication and integration, and those with international quolif icotions to goin the necessary certifications to work in their chosen fields in the UK, respectively. RefuAid refers to the donor advised fund, previously held under The Prism The Gift Fund. These funds have been given from both Prism The Gift Fund and other corporote donors. (f) Other funds represent contributions to other projects not covered above, such as Digital and Technology in terms of our finance system implementation, sponsorship of staff at Breaking Barriers by other organisations, and any funding for our fundraising teams. Acknowledgements.. During the year Breaking Barriers received gronts from The National Lottery Community fund as part of the RC Midlands Region programme for £80,000, and £20,000 from the Eveson Trust towards our work in the West Midlands. We received funding from CareTech Foundation for our London based services team of £24.500. also towards our London services funding worth £52,455 from City Bridge Foundation, and a grant from the Rayne Foundation forour work across Greater Manchester and Liverpool for £30.000. General Funds: Breaking Barriers. reserves policy is to work towards approximately three months of total expenditure. At the year-end, General Funds stood at £1,122k (2024: £1,004k) representing approximately 3.0 months. expenditure. Designated Funds: In FY25. there were no designated funds throughout the year (FY24: opening balance of £117,475 was spent down within the year with no further additions).
mpac eport Note 14 Movements in funds (continued) Prior period comparative Atthe start I of the yeor Income Note £ At the end of the year Expenditure Transfer Restricted funds: Integration Activities- Employment (o} Integration Activities- Education Integration Activities - Volunteering (c) | Lived Experience Programmes transfer from RefuAid (e) | other (f) Total restricted funds 350,532 1.351,310 (1.236.349) 21,187 186,709 (131,798) 27.439 93.080 (64.584) 42,946 12,586 (54,416) 32.409 22.130 (32.409) 88,930 41,024 (114,622) 563 443 1706 839 1634 178 465,493 76,098 55,935 1,116 22,130 15,332 636 104 (b) | (d) | Unrestricted funds: Designated funds General funds Total unrestricted funds 117,475 | (117,475) 1,208,068 2,163,596 (2,368,125) 1,325.543 2,163,596 (2,485,600) 1,003.539 1,003,539 Total funds 1,888,986 3,870,435 (4,119,778) 1,639,643 Note 15 Operating lease commitments Total future minimum lease payments under non-¢on¢ellable operating leases are as follows: Property 2025 Property 2024 Less than l year 78,277 112.653 112,653 Note 16 Legal status of the charity The charity is constituted as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and is governed by its foundation model constitution. The Trustees are chosen fortheir expertise and commitment to support refugees. It is also registered with the Scottish Chority Regulator in respect of its services in Glasgow.
mpac eport Note 17 Related party transactions During the year. we received a donation of £148.5K from the Apax Foundation (FY24: £75K), our Trustee Andrew Waidhofer is Vice President of Apax Partners. Additionolly, we received £55.2K (FY24: £25k) from the GSR Foundation, where our former Trustee James Newell is on the leadership team. Additionally. we received £81,3K (FY24'. £97K) from BNY Mellon, where Honi Kablowi is on the leadership team. Hani served as a trustee from July 2020 to April 2024. Atthe end of the year. no amounts were recognised in the parent charity's accounts in relation to Breaking Barriers Trading's use of shared resources (FY24'. £lk). Amounts owed to the charity at year end totolled £22.Ik (FY24: £30.4k). Note 18 Subsidiary undertakings Breoking Barriers Trading Ltd (compony no 11707875) is 100% owned by Breaking Barriers and has share capital of £1. The subsidiary runs the charity's non- charitable troding activities. A summory of its finonciol performance and position are given below: Entity Type Breaking Barriers Trading Ltd Ordinary os. of shares Value Interest loo% 2025 2024 Turnover Cost of sales Gross prof it (loss) Administrative expenses Operoting profit (loss) (1,300) (1 500) (1,925) (1,925 The aggregate of the assels, liabilities and funds was: Assets 16,897 (22.499) (5,602) 26.631 (30,933) {4.302) Liabilities Funds Note 19 Parent chority The parent charity's gross income and the results for the year are disclosed as follows: 2025 2024 Gross income 3.598.198 140.664 3.871,435 (247,419) Results forthe year
mpac eport Reference and administrative details Appointed Aug-24 Feb-21 Resigned Role Alba Lomberti" Choir Andrew Waidhofer
Katie Rickard** Mor-21 Leno Sobbagh Kelly Maklowicz. Barbaro Serro Mar-22 Oct-24 Jul-22 De¢-25 Jul-22 Mor-25 Helen Downie
Aug-22 Jon-25 Treasurer Anno Jones Alexandra Lucy Traynor Dec-25 'Fundraising, Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-committee (Chair: Andrew Waidhofer) Strotegy Sub-committee (Choir: Kotie Rickord) Charity number: 1161901 Breaking Barriers is also registered as a charity with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) number SC052265 Registered office Breaking Barriers, 71-91 Aldwych, Aldwych House, London, WC2B 4HN Auditors Godfrey Wilson Ltd, 5th Floor Mariner House, 62 Prince Street, Bristol, BSI 4QD Bankers Borcloys, 9 High St, Sutton. Surrey. SMI IDR
reo Ing arriers mpoct eport With thanks Breaking Barriers exists because of the generosity and determination of individuals and organisations who stand with us for an inclusive society. We ore grateful to all our donors. supporters ond partners, including those who prefer to remain anonymous. You are helping refugees across the UK to access meaningful employment ond build new lives. . Aésop Foundation foundaiior A&0 SHEARMAN * BARCIAYS l Lifeskius CITY k CIIILI)S FOUNDATION k]h ItU5t K() Foundation Apa>: 510•h4E CITY BRIDGE FOUNDATION Ashmore
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mpac eport We would also like to thank: Craignish Trust Edward & Dorothy Cadbury Trust Elizabeth Drummond Charitable Fund James T Howat Charitable Trust LinkedIn The 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust The CB & HH Taylor 1984 Trust The Charles Russell Speechlys Foundation The Etauliers Charitable Foundation The Hardy Family Foundation The Hugh Fraser Foundation The Mbili Charitable Trust The Vandervell Foundation loo&in9 1 WA Cargill Fund Wework
Find out more Contact breoking-barriers.co.uk 020 45410155 enquiries@breaking-barriers.co.uk Conn@ct in @breaking-barriers @breakingbarriersuk @breakingbarriersuk Breoking Barriers is o registered charity in England & Wales (no. 1161901) ond in Scotland (no. SC052265). Registered address: Wework Aldwych. 71-91 Aldwych. London. WC2B 4HN.