Safet Net Annual Re ort 2024-25 Registered Company= CE005945. Charity number=1164998 Table of Contents Chair's introduction to the annual report ............................................................. Introduction Our vision, mission & values How we work ............................................................................................................... Our key achlevements In 2024 - 2025 ..................................................................10 Adult case study: Katy .............................................................................................12 Children and young people's case study. Mark .................................................13 Our outcomes- how w• achieved our goals In 2024- 2025 .............................14 Referrals 2024-2025 .................................................................................................18 Adult outcomes .20 Children & young people's outcomes Details of the charity. its Trustees and advisors ................................................ 24 Constitution.....................................................................................................................24 .23 Method of appointment or election of Trustees:.............................................25 Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees:.....................25 Pay policy for staff:.......................................................................................................25 Organisational structure and decision-making:............................................25 Delivering public benefit:...........................................................................................25 Risk management ................................................................................................... 26 Our key challenges in 2024-25 .29 Our goals for the future Investment policy and flnancial roview .............................................................. 34 Annual financlal report and statements.............................................................. 35 Trustees, responsibilities.............................................................................................36 Independentauditors, report....................................................................................37 Statementoffinancial a¢tivities..............................................................................40 .31 Balance sheet...................................................................................................................41 Notes to the financial statements......................................................................... 43 Thanks .56 Chair's introduction to the annual report It is with great pride that I present our annual report for 2024 - 2025. This has been a year of both significant achievement and profound challenge. In a time when the need for trauma-informed support has never been greater, Safety Net has continued to be an invaluable lifeline for people across Cumbria. This year, we were proud to achieve both The Survivors Trust Service Standards Award and One Small Thing's Silver Quality Mark, a recognition of the quality, compassion, and integrity that underpin everything we do. At the same time, we successfully secured over 70 /¢ of our funding for 2025-26 in advance, thanks to the commitment of our funders and partners, giving us the stability to plan ahead with confidence. We supported 18/0 more survivors of sexual and domestic abuse than last year. Despite this rising demand and the increasing pressures on services nationally, our outcomes remain strong. 80/0 of adults and 83/0 of children ond young people showed significant improvements in wellbeing and trauma symptoms reduced for 80/0 of adults and 87/0 of children and young people. These results speak not only to the professionalism and expertise of our team, but also to the courage and resilience of the individuals and families who turn to us in times of crisis. We also recognise the challenges. Delivering this work can be demanding, both emotionally and practically. The needs of those affected by trauma are complex and often long-term. Yet, time and again, our staff, trustees and volunteers show remarkable dedication, strength and compassion. Their ability to hold hope for others, often when hope feels distant, is what makes Safety Net so extraordinary. Looking ahead, we remain committed to breaking down barriers so that no one is left behind. We will continue to expand our training programme, strengthen our financial resilience, and extend our reach to those who may find it hardest to access support, including older adults and those in rural communities. The case studies throughout this report illustrate the very real impact of our work. Each one reflects the depth of trauma-informed care delivered by our staff and volunteers. Care that acknowledges pain and builds safety as our service users move towards recovery. Behind every figure and statistic are human stories of survival, hope and the possibility of change. As I reflect on this year, l am reminded of the words of Helen Keller: "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.- That belief is at the very heart of our work at Safety Net: understanding trauma, supporting people to live with and move beyond it and creating space for recovery and renewed hope. To everyone who has been part of this journey, our team, our funders, our partners, and above all, the survivors who place their trust in us, thank you. Together, we continue to prove that even in the most demanding times, compassion and connection can transform lives. "I would recommend Safety Net to anyono struggling like I do as the support you receive is fantastic and everything is explained in simple terms. This makes the whole oxperien¢e an easy thing to enter into and a good listener is the best thing you Can ever have.- Eleanor Hancock, Chair, Safety Net adult service user Introduction Safety Net is a charity supporting the recovery of those affected by rape, exploitation, sexual and domestic abuse across Cumbria. We offer advice, support, counselling and therapy to adults, children and young people, who have been affected by abuse and trauma. Our approach is holistic, inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly and trauma informed. We work in partnership with other professionals and community groups, with the aim of improving wellbeing and quality of life. In this annual report you can learn about our work in 2024-25, and find out how our charity is governed and how our finances are managed. Safety Net is governed by a Board of Trustees and their details are listed on page 24. A description of the charity's organisation is given on page 25. Our bankers, investment advisors and auditors are listed on page 24. The annual report has been prepared by the Board of Trustees and covers the period of April 2024 to March 2025. 'To protect the identities of our service users, names have been changed in all testimonials and case studies included in this annual report. Our vision, mission & values Our vision: Our mission: Communities free from abuse. Safety Net supports those affected by rape, exploitation, domestic and sexual abuse across Cumbria. We offer advice, support. therapy and a safe space to help people recover from the trauma of abuse. -Everyone I have spoken to or had contact with has been really nice, kind. caring and welcoming. Safety Net was definitely my sale place.- adult s•rvi¢o user E PRINCIPLES OF Wecare about wellbelng We are trusted Wecare al>out the environment Weare collaborativg &work In partnershlp OUR VALUES We care about justice & equallty We continuously leorn & Improve We are committed & belleve In our work We respect other$ & learn wlthout judgement We are supportive & ¢ompos$ionate CHOIGe - ENSURING PHYSICAL & EMOTIONAL SAFETY. MAKING DECISIONS WITH THE INDIVIDUAL, & SHARING POWER. CREATING ENVIRONMENTS WHERE INDIVIDUALS HAVE CHOICE & CONTROL. CREATING RESPECTFUL ENVIRONMENTS WHERE PERSONAL POUNDARIES ARE MAINTAINED. PRIORITISING EMPOWERMENT & SKILL BUILDING. Howwe work we offor a 4-tiered approach. based on a risk and needs-led assessment that combines thorapy with wrap-around support. Tier 4: Reintegration into the community: Tier I: Art therapy groups, a men's group, peer mentoring, befriending and volunteering. Information and advice: Advice and support to individuals, professionals and family members. Includes signposting to other agencies and services, pre-trial and court procedures advice. We also deliver prevention and education work. through a whole schools approach. This includes l.'I support work with children and young people in schools, through our new programme Your Space. The aim is for young people to develop resilience, self-esteem and confidence to tackle situations that are impacting on their wellbeing. These include: Tier 2: Emotional and pra¢ti¢ul support through our Trauma Informed practitionors: Relationships with peers / romantic partners, that are unhealthy or abusive Help with safety, stabilisation and wellbeing. Includes mindfulness, relaxation, sleep and self-care techniques, plus education on the impact of trauma (up to12 sessions Family relationships where domestic abuse is prevalent Child sexual abuse Child sexual exploitation, sexual assault or rape Tier 3: Gender identity issues Trauma-focused counselling or therapy: Sexuality and sexual health Helps service users process and cope with the impacts of trauma. Includes pre-trial therapy. Online safety Self-harming Anxiety I low mood Sessions are led by our Trauma Informed Practitioners and supported by the therapy team. Within each session, we provide advice, explore healthy relationship skills, and look at safety and coping strategies. We use a range of techniques including mindfulness, creative therapy and multi-sensory resources to support emotional regulation. Your Space includes peer group sessions, led by our team, that support the Relationships and Sex Education agenda. Topics include: Consent Sexuality and sexual health Online safety Sending nude photos Pornography Healthy relationships Toxic masculinity We also provide training and information to other professionals and parents. This supports safeguarding, Early Help Assessments, and muti-agency meetings. -my experience at Salety Net was life- changing and that was oll down to my therapist." adult service user Our key achievements in 2024 - 2025 We also invested in our team through training in pre-trial support and trauma-informed practice. We supported professional accreditations and provided learning placements for student social workers and therapists. This year marked a period of significant progress for Safety Net. We supported 18/0 more survivors of sexual and domestic abuse across Cumbria, compared to the previous year. We delivered one-to-one trauma- informed therapy and support to 1,220 people, including: 756 adults 464 children and young people We achieved The Survivors Trust Service Standards Award and One Small Thing's Silver Quality Mark. We also opened a new West Cumbria office, providing clients with another dedicated safe space. We secured over 70/0 of our 2025-26 funding early, thanks to the support of trusts, foundations, and statutory partners. Our McKenzie Friend support played a vital role in helping survivors navigate the family court system a process that can be confusing, overwhelming, and often re- traumatising. McKenzie Friends offer emotional support, help with paperwork, and quietly provide advice during hearings. While they cannot speak on the survivor's behalf without special permission from the judge, their presence alone can make a big difference. They make sure survivors of abuse are not alone when facing one of the most difficult parts of their journey. The voices of those we support remained central to our work. We improved our feedback process to ensure lived experience directly informs service development. This led to the launch of our flexible Trauma-lnformed Parenting Support Programme and the further development of peer support initiatives, including a vital group for male survivors of childhood sexual abuse. In 2024-2025, we provided 65 hours of McKenzie Friend support to 23 clients, helping them understand their legal options, access special measures, and feel safer and more empowered throughout the process. 10 IN 2024-2025 WE SUPPORTED 1,220 PEOPLE - 194 TEACHERS & OTHER PROFESSIONALS ATTENDED WORKSHOPS / TRAINING 756 ADULTS 464 1,666 CHILDREN CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE ATTENDED PEER GROUP SESSIONS 22,676 40/. INTERACTIONS AND SUPPOR T ACROSS ALL SER VICES INCREASE ON THE YEAR BEFORE 259 33/. CLIENTS ACCESSED OUR INFORNAATION & ADVICE SERVICE INCREASE ON THE YEAR BEFORE Katy- adult therapy case study Katy, age 39, was referred to Safety Net by Victim Support aftar experiencing sexual and physical assault by an adult family member. At the time of referral, she was struggling with intense trauma symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, and insomnia. Both Katy and Victim Support felt she needed trauma-informed support to help her process the trauma and begin her recovery. We began by exploring her post-traumatic symptoms and offering psychoeducation about how the brain responds to trauma. Using Carolyn Spring's Survivors Guide, we looked at common triggers and introduced strategies to manage anxiety and distress. Katy learned grounding techniques such as the 5-4-3-2-1 method, which uses the sens8s to calm the body and mind. We explored breathing exercises and how to regulate the nervous system, helping Katy recognise and shift out of the fight flight, or freeze response. We also focused on small, achievable goals. These supported her understanding of the window of tolerance and how to increase it. As part of the worl we explored the disconnect between mind and body that often follows trauma. Katy began journaling as a way to slow down her racing thoughts and create a sense of self- owareness. Katy engaged with the work wholeheartedly. She reported noticeable improvements in sleep, fewer flashbacks, and a reduction in other trauma symptoms. Her session scores reflected this progress, showing clear evidence of the changes she was experiencing. In her final session, Katy shared that the most significant shift had been visible on her fitness watch, which had tracked a steady improvement in her sleep over the12 weeks. For her, this was a meaningful sign of recovery. After12 sessions, we agreed on a planned closure. Internal referrals were made to the Creative Hub group to help Katy stay connected and avoid isolation, as well as to our in-house counselling service. Katy now feels in a stable place to begin working through not just the recent trauma, but also difficult experiences from childhood. Har journey shows how knowledge, tools, and the right support can help survivors reclaim a sense of safety and control. 12 Mark- children and young people's therapycase study Mark was referred to Safety Net by his GP after his mum raised concerns about his escalating behaviour at home. She believed his outbursts were linked to early experiences of witnessing domestic abuse by his father towards h8r, betw88n the ages of O and 3. At the time of referral, Mark was struggling with anger, hitting out at his mum and sister, screaming, slamming doors, and throwing objects. He also expressed sadness and anxiety, particularly around bedtime. His mum was unsure how best to support him and asked for parenting sessions alongside help for Mark. Following the assessment, we recommended Filial Therapy- a play- bosed approach that strengthens attochment between children ond their care ivers.over 24 sessions, the famil engaged in ploy observations with Mark, his mum and his sister parent-only sessions, and play sessions between Mark and his mum. From the beginning, Mark's mum showed a natural ability to follow his lead and join his imaginative play. Together, we built on these strengths while developing new skills, such as recognising and reflecting Mark's emotions and setting healthy boundaries. As therapy progressed, Mark began to express himself more openly. His ability to manage frustration and problem-solve independently improved. At the start, he often deferred to his mum when upset,. by the end, he was finding his own solutions. A key shift come os his mum learned to give him space to feel ond process his emotions, rather than stepping in too quickly to resolve tension. This was a big change for both of them, especiall as his behaviour in the past had escalated to violence and threats to hurt himself or to tell othars his mum had done something to him By the end of therapy, Mark said he felt happier at home and at school. His play also appeared less focused on destruction and more centred on rules. His mum said that she felt Mark's behaviour had really improved and that she was hoping to refer her daughter to the service for further support. 13 Our outcomes- how we achieved our goals in 2024 - 2025 Care Board. Safety Net carefully manages risk through regular trustee meetings, financial checks, a solid reserve policy, and robust business continuity planning. These steps help us stay resilient, trusted, and well-equipped to support our community, now and in the future. Goal I: Effective governance and long-term sustainability We strengthened our trauma- informed governance and long- term sustainability this year. We continue to be an organisational member of the BACP. We were a pilot organisation for The Survivors Trust service standards inspection and were recognised for our high- quality survivor-centred support. We also gained our Silver Quality Mark from One Small Thing, which is a national benchmark for our trauma- informed support. Goal 2: To challenge inequality and injustice. and campaign to influence strategy and policy Safety Net continues to challenge inequality, influence policy, and promote trauma-informed practice across Cumbria and beyond. In 2024-25, we worked with The Survivors Trust on national consultations and took an active role in local networks, including the Sexual Violence Strategic Group, Domestic Abuse Networks and Children and Young People's Reference Groups. We welcomed Eleanor Hancock as our new Chair, bringing over 30 years of trustee experience and a strong background in domestic abuse awareness. We also exceeded our goal of having 25/. of trustees with lived experience, bringing vital insight to our leadership team. We partnered with organisations such as The Birchall Trust, Age UK, and Victim Support to raise awareness and deliver trauma- informed training. As co-leads of Trauma Informed Cumbria and partners to The Bridgeway (Cumbria's Sexual Assault Referral Centre), we championed system- wide change. Survivor voices remain central to our work, informing our strategy, training, and advocacy Our multi-year business plan and funding strategy helped us secure over 70% of our 2025-26 income early, including support from Global's Make Some Noise, the Charles Hayward Foundation, and the Edward Gostling Legacy Fund. We continue to be commissioned by the Ministry of Justice and the North East and Cumbria Integrated 14 through the Client Reference Group and service user feedback. Instagram: 374 followers - a 17/. increase from 321 the year before. Over the past year, we've taken part in national and local social media campaigns. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to tackling inequality and promoting justice. TikTok: We launched the channel last year and grew from15 to 61 followers. Our videos aim to inform and engage a younger Gen Z audience. Key campaigns included.. Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week: We joined this national campaign to raise awareness and help break the silence around these issues. Stalking Awareness Week 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence: This global campaign focused on violence against women and girls. Over the16 days, we shared educational content to show the many forms abuse can take. International Women's Day: We celebrated the women who inspire us with personal contributions from staff across Safety Net. Throughout the year, we also worked hard to challenge myths around domestic and sexual abuse and to promote Safety Net's services through effective communications, resulting in the following followers and visitors to our channels: . OtWTnal ai ti0Th31 Stalktng Website (www.safetynetuk.org): 17,000 visits last year - up14/. from the year before. 13,000 of these were unique visitors, a 10% increase. Facebook:1,338 followers - up12% from1,200 the year before. 15 Goal 3: underscores the overlap between different types of abuse and the need for trauma-informed, tailored responses. To work collaboratively to deliver trauma-informed, needs-led and accessible services: Tier 2 and Tier 3: Su thera ort and We supported 603 individuals at Tier 2 and 3- a 5/0 increase from last year. This modest growth reflects a more intentional trauma-informed model that places greater emphasis on readiness for recovery. However, it's olso important to consider that the intensity and complexity of needs within these tiers have greatly increased. Our staff have prioritised individuals with higher levels of need and trauma, impacting the total volume of individuals that can be supported within these tiers. In 2024-25, we greatly enhanced our Tier I support by introducing a new structured assessment and screening for all referrals. This allowed us to manage rising complexity, assess risk earlier (and more holistically), and provide timely, trauma-informed support before allocation to a practitioner or therapist. We also refined our eligibility criteria and improved referral tools for professionals, including an online readiness questionnaire and updated guidance. To meet the complexity of families coming into our service, we launched a rolling online trauma-informed family support programme. 98/0 of children and young people in our service present with moderate to high trauma symptoms, so we reviewed our framework to include more parental support. This includes caregiver sessions on trauma, connection, emotional regulation, and monthly listening groups, giving families flexible tools to support recovery. As a result, Tier l activity rose significantly, with10,053 activities recorded - 87/0 relating to new or returning clients. Of the1,015 clients with accepted referrals, 87/. received substantial Tier I support, averaging 8.6 contacts each. Our work with professionals continues to be a central part of Tier l. In fact, over half of our Tier l activities involved external agency input, highlighting our valuable multi- agency partnerships. Tl r4'R Int tl klnt th We also improved our data quality and were able to identify clear and well-evidenced trends. Key presenting issues were domestic abuse (41/.), child sexual abuse (24/.), and sexual abuse (52/.). This Our 21 volunteers provided 264 hours of support, with 111 befriending sessions and 15 peer-led coffee and craft groups held across the year. These included creative activities like needle felting, clay modelling, 16 and card making, supporting connection and wellbeing. Our men's peer support group for survivors of childhood sexual abuse continued to meet a critical gap. Across13 sessions and 39 hours in total, co-facilitated by a therapist and a staff member, participants shared lived experiences and coping strategies. They created space for social interactions and helped reduce feelings of isolation and shame. We recognise that participation in a group can build up strong emotions or triggers for those with complex trauma. The risk was carefully managed through robust safeguarding processes, clear group agreements co-created with participants, and access to one-to- one support when needed. Six additional peer development sessions gave participants the chance to shape the future of the male peer support survivors, group. Together, they began creating a peer-led support toolkit - a leaflet for staff to use when speaking with potential new members. They also reviewed the member agreement and group protocols to reflect what they'd learned so far and to clearly outline what the group off ers and how it works. This group also helped embed the survivor voice across the organisation by inviting staff to attend sessions and learn directly from participants. -Salety Net has helped in showing me better coping strategies with PTSD and anxiety. In all my sessions I have felt like I was listened to. and my past tmuma was taking very seriously.- Our co-production approach means those affected by trauma are not just recipients of our services but active partners in shaping them. - adult servi¢e user 17 REFERRALS 2024-25 180 SELF-REFERRALS 183 EDUCATION 170 ENTAL HEALTH SERVICES POLICE 69 17 24 INTERNAL REFERRALS FROM WITHIN SAFETY NET SEXUAL ASSAUL T REFERRAL CENTRE 25 28 HEALTH 32 33 LOCAL AUTHORITY OTHER CHARITY OR COMMUNITY ORGANISATION REFERRALS BARNARDO'S CHILDREN'S SERVICES INDEPENDENT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ADVOCATE I INDEPENDENT SEXUAL VIOLENCE ADVOCATE SERVICE (VICTIM SUPPORT) 18 Goal 4: the urgent need for early, trauma- informed education. Our work responds directly to these risks promoting respect, equality, emotional literacy, and digital safety. To develop and embed our prevention and early intervention work with young people In 2024-25, we expanded our prevention work to reach more young people, parents, and teachers. We delivered a whole- school approach in eight schools across Cumbria. 1,666 students took part in workshops on emotional regulation, healthy relationships, toxic masculinity, online safety, and the impact of pornography. These were co-delivered with Ben Oliver from Worth Educating. 154 students were referred for one-to-one support with our trauma-informed practitioners. 194 teachers received RSHE training, with ongoing advice and resources offered throughout the year. Parents attended sessions on self-harm, online safety, pornography, and emotional regulation. ' Before the session, I was bad in s¢hool now I feel like I'm not bad in school. I was helped to understand how not to get involved in bad situations. Young people helped shape the programme through regular feedback and co-production sessions. The Netflix TV show Adolescence sparked national concern about the growing dangers young people face today, particularly the role of the manosphere and the online radicalisation of boys towards violent misogyny. It highlighted children and young persons service user 19 ADULT SERVICES OUTCOMES The progress shown in our odult service outcomes highlights both the strength of survivors and the impact of our trauma-informed, needs-led support. We track this using validoted outcome measures, helping us understand each person's recovery journey. However, these positive steps must be seen in context. Mony clients face complex trauma, systemic inequalities, and the ongoing impact of the cost-of- living crisis. The limitations of readily ovoiloble mental heolth support also creote Substantial borriers. These pressures can affect the pace ot recovery, sometimes leading to plateaus or dips in progress. Despite this, our focus remains clear.. to offer consistenL trauma-informed expert care while advocating for systems thot better meet the needs ol survivors where they are at. IMPROVED WELLBEING / SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA 80/. 80/. OF ADULT SER VICE USERS EXPERIENCED IMPROVED HEALTH AND WELLBEING. OF ADULT SERVICE USERS EXPERIENCED REDUCED SYfvAPTOfvAS OF TRAUMA. REDUCED RISK & RISK TAKING BEHAVIOURS 75/. 78/. OF ADULT SERVICE USERS FELT THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY HAD IMPROVED. OF ADULT SERVICE USERS HAD GREATER AWARENESS AROUND ONLINE SAFETY. IMPROVED EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE 85/. 81/. 85/. 79/. OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS FELT THEY AD BETTER COPING AND SELF CARE STRA TEGIES. OF AOULT SER VICE USERS FEL T IAORE ABLE ro MAINTAIN RELA TIONSHIPS WITH FAMILY AND FRIENOS. OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS HAD IMPROVED ABILITY ro INTERACT SOCIALLY WITH OTHER PEOPLE. OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS HAD BETTER ENGAGEMENT IN PRIVATE LEISURE ACTIVITIES & HOBBIES. 20 INCREASED ABILITY TO COPE WITH PRACTICAL TASKS: 77/ 77/. OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS FELT MORE ABLE ro MANAGE POLICE, CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND COURT PROCEEDINGS. OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS FELT MORE AgLE TO SEEK AND MAINTAIN EMPLOYMENT. 73/ OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS REPORTED A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THEIR MANAGEhAENT OF HOUSING, FINANCE & BENEFITS. OF AOULT SERVICE USERS FEL T THEIR ACCESS TO EOUCATION & TRAINING HAD IhAPROVED. 74/. 87/. 78/ OF ADULT SERVICE USERS FELT BETTER ABLE TO MANAGE HOUSEHOLD TASKS OF ADUL T SERVICE USERS FELT BETTER ABLE TO PARENT & LOOK AFTER CHILDREN. 21 or o full breokdown of dota, contoct Solety Net. Goal 5: Goal 6: To embed a culture of Continuous improvement and service development informed by service user experiences: To be recognised as a centre of excellenee for trauma-informed work in Cumbria In 2024-25, Safety Net strengthened its role as a centre of excellence for trauma-informed practice in Cumbria. We supported over 200 professionals through four key events, reaching those in health, education, social work, housing, mental health, the voluntary sector, and local councils. In 2024-25, we strengthened our trauma-informed approach across all areas of the organisation. We achieved the Silver Quality Mark from One Small Thing, recognising our commitment to safe, supportive, and trauma-aware services. We improved how we gather and use client feedback, ensuring their voices shape our services. Staff received training in pre-trial support, safeguarding, confidentiality, and trauma-informed practice. Our staff away day focused on embedding trauma-informed principles and the five pillars through engaging in a 5 Rhythms dance day. Our Trauma-lnformed Strategic Leadership Event brought senior decision-makers together to explore how empathy, safety, and shared responsibility can transform organisations. Dr Sophie Mulvana, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, led reflections on the emotional demands of leadership and modelled trauma-informed values. Leaders were encouraged to begin their trauma-informed self- assessment journey. They were also encouraged to view this cultural change not as a one-off intervention but as an ongoing commitment to well-being, justice, and system-wide learning. We supported team development through professional accreditations and specialist training. A trauma- informed practitioner became a qualified psychotherapist, and a therapist gained BACP accreditation. staff also completed training in child counselling, adolescent trauma, and parent-child therapy. We also ran three Trauma Awareness Training sessions to provide a strong foundation in trauma awareness. These covered trauma's impact on the brain, recognising trauma responses, applying safe, practical tools, and managing vicarious trauma. Participants reported they left feeling better equipped to support others and themselves with compassion and confidence. We supported future professionals by hosting a student social worker and three therapy student placements. We also expanded our student placement offer, helping to build a skilled, trauma-informed workforce. 22 ' CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE OUTCOMES The children and young people that we supported last year had improved primary trauma and wellbeing outcomes This shows the difference we are making to their lives: IMPROVEMENT EIN REDUCTION SY OF TRAUMA BEH OF C141LDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE SHOWED BETTER HEAL TH AND WELL8EING SCORES. 83/. 78/. OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE REPORTED AN IMPROVEMENT OR NO CHANGE IN THEIR PERSONAL SAFETY. OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE REPORTED TrAPROVEMENT IN SYMPTOMS OF TRAVM 87/. 82/. OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE HAD IMPROVED AWARENESS OR NO CHANGE, AROUND ONLINE SAFETY. IMPROVED EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE 86/. 75/. 76/. 80/. OF CHILDREN & OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE YOUNG PEOPLE REPORTEO REPORTED IhAPROVEMENTS 1N IhAPROVEMENT WITHIN HOW THEY WERE THEIR FA￿lL Y LIFE AND COPING ANO THEIR CLOSE RELA TIONSHIPS SELF CARE. AROUND THEM. OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE REPORTED AN IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR ABILifY TO SOCIALISE WITH THEIR FRIENDS. OF CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE INOICA TED AN IhAPROVEMENT IN THEIR SCHOOL LIFE. 23 Safety Net UK A Charitable Incorporated Organisation: details of the charity, its Trustees and advisors. The information below relates to the period ended 31 March. Trustees: Registered Charity Number: Biographies of our Trustees can be found on our website. 1164998 E Hancock, Chair Appointed 0710812024 Registered Company Number: CE005945 J King, Chair Resigned 1710312025 Registered Office: A Kevern Resigned 1910112025 l Fisher Street, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8RR K M Dixon Auditor: M Hattrick Dodd & Co Audit Limited, Fifteen Rose Hill, Montgomery Way, Rosehill Estate, Carlisle, Cumbria, CAI 2RW M Aurelia C Todhunter Appointed1610412025 Banking: R Reinbeck Resigned1311212024 Cumberland Building Society, 38 Fisher Street, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8RQ C Travers Heads of Service: Solicitors: Jo Birch Head of Operations Burnetts, Victoria House, Wavell Drive, Carlisle, Cumbria, CAI 2ST Julia Carver Head of Strategy and Development Fionuala Wareing Head of Clinical Practice 24 Constitution: Policies adopted for the induction and training of Trustees: The charity existed as Safety Net Advice and Support Centre for thirteen years but changed status from an unincorporated association to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation on 16 Janua Net (UK 2017. This new entity, Safety , has a legal identity and the ability to conduct business in its own name. The Trustees and senior management team regularly review the charity's governance, and its policies and procedures, on a rolling programme. Safety Net's staff and Trustee induction policies are regularly reviewed and uploaded to our Breathe HR system. We have staffl Trustee policies that are updated on a rolling basis. The charity has an annual strategy day and biannual staff/Trustee training sessions. Pay policyfor staff: Safety Net is currently reviewing payscales to align with the NHS. The following information was correct as at 31 March 2025. Organisational structure and decision-making: The strategic management and oversight of the charity is the responsibility of the Trustees. Senior leadership is provided by the Head of Operations, Head of Strategy and Development and Head of Clinical Practice, who attend Trustees Board Meetings. Each Trustee has responsibility for a defined area of Safety Net's activity and is available to senior management for consultation and advice. Method of appointment or election of Trustees: Safety Net has a balanced board of five Trustees who have a range of relevant skills and experience. One member of the Trustee board is an ex service user and we intend to increase representation from those with lived experience over time. The strategic management and oversight of the charity is the responsibility of the Trustees, who are elected or co-opted by the Trustee Board. Recent appointments have addressed skills gaps, particularly in the areas of marketing, business development and planning. Furthermore, the Trustees have identified diversification of the demographics of the Board as an area for further development. Delivering public benefit: Safety Net's objectives and activities fully reflect the purposes of the charity. There is an inherent public benefit in raising public awareness of the extent of rape, sexual assault and all forms of abuse against children and adults of all genders, so they feel able to talk about their experiences, seek help and access appropriate support. The Trustees have referred to the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and comply with this guidance. 25 Risk management The following have been identified by Salety Net Trustees as the key risks Risk: Managed by: Financial stability We hove o cleor overoll service vision which helps shope our fundraising strategy and we proactively seek a balanced mix of funding sources. We continue to strive to diversify our income, aiming to grow traded and voluntary funding to 5-10/. within three years and 20-25Yo in the long term. To mitigate the impact of reductions in public sector funding and reduced community donations due to the cost-of-living crisis, we are building new partnerships, organising a range of events and seeking sponsorships and corporate donations. We maintain tight budget controls to manage inflation, deliver all contracts effectively and provide high-quality reports for funders, evidencing our cost-effectiveness and social value. Governance is strengthened through independent accountants, a newly established finance committee and a clear reserves policy that is reviewed annually. A full financial oudit was undertaken in August 2025. operational challenges We prioritise staff and volunteer wellbeing to ensure organisational resilience. This includes providing trauma- informed clinical supervision and case management to reduce vicarious trauma and prevent burnout, monitoring workloads, and offering competitive salaries and flexible working arrangements. We invest in staff development through ongoing training and clear pathways for progression. To ensure service quality, we are undertaking an ongoing review of our allocations process and our wider service offer to ensure client-centred support is available, even for those on waiting lists. Our strong links with the University of Cumbria, Victim Suppor¢ Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), and other providers support smooth referrals and joint working. We also utilise a dedicated pool of experienced freelance workers to support us during peaks in demand. 26 Risk: Managed by: Competition from other providers Our position is uniquely comprehensive, as our work spans all genders and age groups, covering the full spectrum of domestic and sexual abuse. We operate a flexible delivery model, using remote services to meet evolving community needs. To secure our position, we monitor national and local policy pressures and maintain active membership of strategic boards to influence policy and represent our baneficiaries. We are also developing strong links with the mayor's office and local councillors to enhance our advocacy work. Compliance and regulation We conduct regular internal and external audits and risk assessments to ensure we remain compliant with legal requirements and sector best practice. A rolling review of all policies and procedures is in place. We have appointed a Safeguarding Lead and undertaken a comprehensive review of all safeguarding policies. All staff are required to complete safeguarding training appropriate to their roles, with ongoing training in Domestic Violence and Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) also provided. For transparency and accountability, we have an updated complaints procedure published on our website and have established clear processes for Trustee Declarations of Interest. Service demand We ocknowledge thot economic hardship and sociol issues have heightened demand, straining our resources. We shape our services around data and community needs, managing referrols through a clear triage and case management process. We have developed clear pathways and eligibility criteria for all service users requiring our specialist sexual and domestic abuse services. Our trauma-informed tiered model supports all genders and ages, ond we continue to expand our school-bosed services with a flexible, whole-school approach. A key organisational risk is our current premises. We are actively seeking a larger location to relocate ond future-proof Safety Net with the full support of our Board. 27 Risk: Managed by: Organisational Resilience We are considered a centre of excellence with a strong reputation, supported by a healthy staff retention rote of over 90/.. Our quality is demonstrated by working within the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) ethical frameworks and achieving The Survivors Trust and One Small Thing's Silver Trauma-lnformed Quality Assurance Mark. Our Board combines professional expertise in areas like finance, PR and safeguarding with valuable lived experience. We have implemented a new trustee structure with subcommittees and clearly defined roles (Chair, Daputy, Tr8asurar) to strangthan govarnance. We are also developing long-term strategic plans and a crisis communication strategy to safeguard our reputation. cybersecurity and digital transformation We use social media platforms like TikTok to raise awareness and promote our mission, supported by a new website and rebranding to improve accessibility and engagement. To protect our systems, we continue to fund IT upgrades and invest in robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, encryption, and secure data storage. We provide regular training for all staff and volunteers on cybersecurity best practices and data protection to ensure they can use new tools effectively and safely. Environmental preparedness We remain aware of environmental risks and have developed and regularly updated our business disruption plans to address risks, such as flooding. We ensure our services are considered within broader emergency response frameworks through local resilience planning and maintain adequate insurance coverage for our property, operations and liabilities. 28 Our key challenges in 2024-25 Challenge: Explanation Responding to unprecedented ond increosingly complex demand The scole ond severity of need in our community is growing, placing immense pressure on our services and staff. This year, we supported18Yo more survivors of sexual and domestic abuse compared to last year, the highest number of people in our charity's history. The complexity of cases has intensified. A staggering 82/0 of adults and 98/0 of children and young people present with moderate to high trauma symptoms when they are referred to us. This complexity, compounded by the cost-of-living crisis, requires longer and more intensive support, which in turn increases wait times for those in need of help. Our initial contact and assessment services are under immense pressure, with Tier l advice and support activity rising significantly to10,053 recorded activities. Navigating a volatile funding landscape and rising costs Ensuring our services are sustainable in the current economic climate is o persistent and significant challenge. We operate in a highly competitive funding environment where reliance on short-term contracts makes long-term strategic planning difficult. While our fundraising has been successful, rising operational costs place additional pressure on our resources, stretching every grant ond donation further. Despite these pressures, our robust funding strategy has been critical in meeting this challenge. We successfully secured over 70/0 of our income for the coming year in advance, providing crucial stability for our services. 29 Challenge: Explanation Ensuring workforce capacity and wellbeing Meeting the complex needs of our clients requires a highly skilled and resilient workforce, and the recruitment and retention of specialist staff remains a key challenge. There is a persistent shortage of qualified, trauma-informed therapists, particularly in a rural county like Cumbria. Our dedicated team consistently works at full capacity to manage the high volume of cases, making staff wellbeing a critical priority to prevent stress and burnout. To address this, we have invested heavily in our team's professional development, supporting accreditations and advanced training in trauma treatment to build and retain specialist skills within the organisation. Adapting and developing for future needs To remain effective, we must continually evolve our services and infrastructure to meet the changing needs of our community. A primary infrastructure challenge is that our main Carlisle office has been outgrown. We are now progressing plans to relocate to a new, more sustainable headquarters that meets our future needs. We face the ongoing challenge of removing barriers to access, especially for older adults and people in rural communities who may struggle to get the support they need. We are developing targeted outreach workshops and information sessions to address this. 30 Our goals for the future In 2025-2026, we intend to achieve the following goals: Finalise our climate action plan, implement energy-eflicient office practices, and promote environmental awareness among staff and service users. Goal I: Effective governance and long- term sustainability Goal 2: Recruit a dedicated Fundraising Manager to lead our fundraising strategy, grow corporate partnerships, and increase fundraising and traded income by 5-10/. in two years, and 20- 25/. long term. To challenge inequality and justice, and campaign to influence strategy and policy- both locally and nationally: Deliver regular training to police, social workers, and healthcare staff to improve responses to sexual and domestic abuse. Appoint a dedicated trainer to expand our income- generating training programmes, contributing to increased financial sustainability. Advocate for legislative change and engage in national policy discussions to better protect survivors of abuse and challenge systemic inequalities. We will also lend our full support to key national campaigns working towards these goals. Progress plans to relocate to a greener, more sustainable Carlisle HQ in partnership with a local charity. Implement an upgraded case management system and a new funding database to improve operational efficiency and dato management for fundraising. Use our social media channels to participate in national dialogues and amplify critical policy messages affecting our local communities. Build a strong presence on TikTok and Instagram to engage Gen Z in social justice conversations and expand our reach within this demographic. Transition to a CEO-led structure and implement a revised internal structure to support our continued growth and strategic objectives. Partner with local organisations and businesses to run public awareness campaigns and community initiatives that inspire action. Strengthen our Board of Trustees through a skills audit, targeted recruitment, and regular training and development opportunities. 31 Goal 3: Goal 4: To work collaboratively to deliver trauma-inlormed, needs-led and accessible services. To develop and expand our prevention and early intervention work with young people: Expand Tier 4 group support beyond Carlisle to reach under- served survivors in West Cumbria and Penrith. Secure sustainable funding to expand prevention work across more schools in Cumbria through proactively identifying and applying for grants from trusts, foundations, and government bodies. Work with rural community grou (GPS, churches, schools, libraries to deliver accessible information sessions and survivor-informed talks. Deliver needs-led outreach workshops for rural communities, including farming families, older adults, and those with limited digital access, to increase service accessibility. Ensure all community engagement in rural areas is trauma-informed and accessible, meeting the specific needs of survivors in isolated communities. Develop a modular menu of workshops on healthy relationships, consent, online safety, and recognising abuse. Available for schools to purchase based on their needs. Attract funding and design a specialist support service model for children and families aff ected by Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB). Continue to embed trauma- informed principles across all services, with regular reviews to maintain best practice. Involve survivors in service design and delivery to ensure they are truly needs-led and increase volunteering opportunities. Collaborate with The Birchall Trust to co-design and deliver HSB training for frontline professionals. Attract funding and conduct a needs assessment to inform a specialist service for Child to Parent Abuse (CAPVA). Launch a 12-week Recovery Toolkit Group to support women with practical tools for healing and emotional well-being. Improve accessibility by addressing physical, cultural, fi'nancial, and digital barriers through outreach, partnerships, and technology. 32 Goal 5: marketing across Cumbria and beyond. To embed a culture of continuous improvement and service development informed by service user experiences: Offer consultation and mentorship to help other organisations embed trauma-informed practices. Review and enhance current feedback systems to improve how we collect, analyse, and apply data to service development. Secure funding to develop and deliver specialist training, including support on vicarious trauma for professionals. Regularly evaluate and refine feedback processes with input from staff, volunteers, and participation data to ensure they remain effective and fit for purpose. -Totally invaluable. The experience has brought. and continues to bring clarity to my thoughts and subsequent actions in sell healing. It has allowed me to comprehend my past and move on from the damage caused.- Goal 6: To be recognised as a centre of excellence for trauma intormed work in Cumbria. strengthen our leadership in Trauma Informed Cumbria by actively engaging with the strategic steering group and building on our partnership with The Birchall Trust. adult service user Work towards One Small Thing's Gold Accreditation by deepening trauma-informed practice and embedding user voice in strategic decisions. Develop and launch an online training platform to deliver courses on domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and trauma-informed approaches, with targeted 33 Investment policy and financial review Safety Net holds all funding in two accounts with the Cumberland Building Society and relies on a mixture of grants, donations, contracts and local fundraising for income. It is our intention to maintain a level of reserves to cover 3 months of direct service delivery costs, currently around £843k (24-25) per annum, in case of delay or loss of funding. This would allow the charity to continue service delivery in the short term. (£210,000) On top of covering the direct delivery costs in the short term, we aim to hold 20/0 of permanent staff costs around £600,000 (24-25) to cover any redundancy and closure costs in the event of winding up. (£120,000) "Safety Net has helped in showing me better coping strategies with PTSD and anxiety. In all my sessions i have felt like I was listened to, and my past trauma was taking very seriously.- A small buffer to cover unexpected costs in relation to the rental property, such as building maintenance, should also be held. (£25,000) Target: £355,000 Our free reserves excluding permanent endowment: £266,917 adult service user 34 Annual financial report and statements Safety Net {UK) Registration number.. 1164998 Annual Report and Financial Statements 31 March 2025 dOdd&co 35 Safety Net IUKI Trustees. Responsibilities in relation to the Financial Statements The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees, Report and the finanaal statements in accordance with applicable law and Unvted Kingdom Accounting Standards. Th8 law applicable to charities in England and Wale5 requires th8 truste85 to piep8re financial 5taternents for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the chaiity and of the incorning iesources and application of resources of the ¢h8rity for th81 period. In preparing these finan￿81 stalernents, the trustees are iequiied to". Select suitable accounting policies and then apply Ihern consistently., obsetwe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP., make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and ptudent., state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial stalernents.. and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the chaiity and enable them to ensuie that the financial statements comply with the Chaiities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022, the Charity (Account5 and Report51 Regulations and the piovisions of the trust deed. They ale responsible for safeguarding the assets of the chaiity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 36 Independent Audltors. Report to the Trustees of Safety Net IUKI Opinion We have audited the financial slalernenls of S8fety Net IUKI for the year ended 31 March 2025. set out on pages 7 10 22 which comprise the St8tement of Fin8nci81 Activities. the Balance Sheet. the St8tement of Cash Flows 8nd the related notes. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting St8ndards. including Financi81 Reporting Standard 102 IFRS 1021 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable In the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally A￿pted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements.. give a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31 March 2025 and of its incoming reSoUr￿S and application of resources, for the year then ended., have been proper￿ piep8red in 8ccord8nce wlh United Kingdorn GeneT8lly Accepted Awounting Pr8clice applicable to smaller entities", and have been prepared in accordance wth the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing IUKI IISAS lu￿> and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards 8re further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK. including the FRC'S Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilitie5 in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit eviden￿ we have obtsined is sufficient and appropriate lo provide a basis for our opinion. Conclusions ￿lating to going concern In auditing the financial slalemenls. we have conduded that the trustees, use of the going concern basis of a￿OUntIng in the prep818lion of the finan¢ial stslemenls Is appropriate. Based on the work we have performed, we have not idenlrfied any rnaleri81 uncertainties relating lo events or conditions that, Individually or collectively. may c85t significant doubt on the charity's ability to wntinue as a going concem for a period of at least 12 months from when the financial statements ale authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with iespect lo going con￿rn are de￿lIbed in the ielevant sections of thi5 ieport. Other information Th8 trustees are r85pon5ible for the other Information. The other infoirnation compris85 the infoirnation included in the annual report other than the financial 5taternent5 and our auditors report thereon. Our opinion on the financial 5taternents does not cover the othei infoirnation and, except to the extent otherwise explIcrt￿ st8ted in OLJr ieport, we do not express any fom of a55urance conclusion theieon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misststement of the other infomation. 11, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Other matters The piior period financial stslements ale un8udrf(ed. 37 Independent Audltors. Report to the Trustees of Safety Net IUKI .. continued Matters on which we are required to report by exception In the light of the knowledger and understanding of the Charity and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Trustees Annual Report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion.. the infomation given in the Financial Statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the Trustees, Report., or sufficient 8ccounting records have not been kept.. or the Financial Statements are nol in agreement with the accounting records and returns,. or we have not received all the infomation and explanations we require for our audit. Qur objectives 8ie to obtain reasonable assuiance about whether the fin8n¢i81 staternents as 8 whole are free from material Tnisstatement, whether due to fr8ud or error, and to 155ue auditoi's report that include5 our opinion. Reasonable assurance is 8 high level of assui8n¢e, bul it is not a gu8r8nlee th81 an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS IUKI will always detect a msterial misst8tement when it exists. Misstaternent5 C8n arise from fiaud or eiror and are considered tnateiial, if Individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. A further decision of our responsibilities foi the audit of the financial stateTnents is located on the Finanaal Reporting Council's website at www.frc.org.uklauditorresponsibilities. This descriptitsn forms part tsf our auditors report. Rèsponsibilities of truBt•es As explained more fully in the Trustees, Responsibilities Statement set out on page 3, the trustees are iesponsible ft>r the pieparation of the Financial Statements which give a true and fail view, and ft)r such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of Financial Statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a going concem, disdosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the company or to ￿ase operations, or have no realistic ahernative but to do so. Our responslbllltles for the audlt of the financlal statements We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and then design and perfom audit procedures responsive to those risks, including obtaining audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. In identifying and assessing risks of rnaterial misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations we considered the following.. resutts of our enquiries of management about their own identification and assessment of the risks of any matters we identified having obtained and reviewed the charity's documentation of their policies and procedures relating to.. identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations and whether they are aware iof any instances of non-cornpli8nce', delecling and responding lo risks of fr8ud and whether they have any knowledge of any actual. suspected or 8lleged fraud., the inleinal controls established lo mitigate risks of fraud or non-cornpliance with laws and regulations.. the m8tteis discussed arnong the audit te8m regarding how 8nd where fraud might owur in the fin9n￿91 5taternents and any potential indicators of fraud. 38 Independent Audltors. Report to the Trustees of Safety Net IUKI .. continued As a result of these procedLJres, we considered the opportunities and incentives that may exist within the organisation for fraud and identrfied the greatest potential for fraud to be in relation to management override which, in common with all audrts under ISAS IUKI, we are required to perform speafic procedures to respond to this risk. We also obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory framework that the company operates in, focusing on provisions of those laws and regulations that had a direct effect on the deterrnination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The key laws and regulations we considered in this context included the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022. As a result of performing the above, in response to the risks identified, we did not identify any key audit matters related to the potential risk of fraud or non-cornpliance with laws and regulations. In addition to the above, our procedures to respond to risks identified the following.. reviewing the financial statement disclosures and testing to supporting documentation to assess complian with provisions of relevant laws and regulations described as having a direct effect on the financial statements", enquiring of management conceming actual and potential litigation claims., performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material misstatement due to fraud., reading minLrtes of meetings of those charged with governance., and in addressing the risk of fraud through management override of controls, testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other adjustments,. assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias., and evaluating the rationale of any significant transactions that are unusual or outside the nomal course of the charity's work. We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members and rernained alert to any indications of fraud or non-compliance wth laws and regulations throughout the audit. Use of our report This report is made solely to the trustees of Safety Net IUKI, as a body. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the trustees those matters we are required to slate to thern in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law. we do not accept or assurne responsibility to anyone other than the Safely Net IUKJ and its Iruslees. for our audit work, for this report. or for the opinions we have fomied. FIFTEEN Rosehill Montgomery Way Rosehill Eslale CARLISLE CA1 2RW Dodd & Co Audit Limited Chartered Accounlanls & Registered Auditors 29 October 2025 Dodd & Co Audit Limited is eligible lo act as an auditor in terrns of section 1212 of the Cornpanies Act 2006 39 Safety Net IUKI Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Fund¥ Total Funds Fund¥ Fund¥ Fund¥ 2025 2024 Note Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies Othei tiading activities Investments Charitable activities Total incotne and endowTnents 35,290 4.997 15,231 78.517 134,035 5,000 225,000 265,290 4.997 15,231 770,064 1,055,582 64,791 7,604 9,078 875,123 956,596 691,547 696,547 225,000 Expenditure on= Raising funds Charitable activities Total expenditure 34,280 193.177 227,457 34,280 948,196 982,476 24,567 878,664 903,231 755,019 755,019 Net incoming resources before transfers 193,4221 158,4721 225,000 73,11 53,365 Transfers Transfers be￿een funds 52.313 152,3131 Net movements in funds 141.1091 {110.7851 225.000 73.1C6 53,365 Rèeoneiliation of funds Total funds brought forward Totsl funds carried forward 321,678 280.569 133,077 22,292 454,755 527.861 401,390 454.755 225.000 The notes on pages 10 to 22 form an integral part of these financial statements. 40 Safety Net (UK} Balan¢$ Sh•et a$ at 31 March 2025 2025 2024 Not• Flxed a8s•ts Intangible a$so19 T8nglbl& assets 12 13 11,955 1,697 13.662 Currènt as5•ts Debtors Cash al bank and in h•nd 14 20,919 674.415 695.334 56.576 512.356 568.934 Credltors: Amoun18 lalllng du• wlthln onè ￿ar 15 1181,1251 118.4431 N•t curr•nt agsels 514.209 452.491 N•t 527.861 4S4.7SS Thv funds of th• ¢harlty- Endowmont lunds 225.000 R8Strlet•d funds 22,292 133,077 Ilnrestrlct•d funds Unie51rided income lurhd$ 280,569 321.678 Totsl ¢harity funds Th8 financial sla18menl8 have been prepa￿d In awdancg vAth th8 Flnand•l Reporung StaThJar(18pplcabl8 In the UK and Rewblic of Ireland IFRS 1021. 527,861 454,755 Approved by Ihe Board on 29 O¢lober2025 and $lgn8d on Its behaNby. E Han¢o¢k Trustee ¢ Todhuntar Trusteè Th8 notès on paoes 10 to 22 fomi an Integrnl part 01th8se fin8ndal Slaiwngnts. 41 Safety Net IUKI Cash Flow Statement for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 2025 2024 Nèt cash provided by (used by) operating activitie# Net income for the period Depreaation charges Decrease in debtors In¢ie8se in oiedilors 73,106 699 35,657 64,682 174,144 53,365 755 8,139 65,186 127,445 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activitiès Purchase of property, plant and equipment 112,087) 112,0871 Increase in cash 162,057 127,445 Th8 not85 on pages 10 to 22 fortn an integral part of thes8 fin8nci81 statements. 42 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 Accounting policies Statèmant of compliancè The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notelsl to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the second edition of the Charities Statement of Recommended practi￿ issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Charities Act 2011 as amended by the Charities Act 2022. The accounts Ifinanaal statements) have been prepared to give a 'true and fairf view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only lo the extent required to provide a 'true and fair view,. This departure has involved following Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Finanaal Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.'Staternent of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been wthdrawn. Basis of preparation The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise staled in the relevant accounting policy notes. Going concern These finanaal staternents have been prepared on a going concem basis. Fund accounting policy Unrestricted income funds are general funds that are available for use at the trustees. discretion in furtheran￿ of the objectives of the charity. Restricted funds are those donated for use in a particular area or for specific purposes, the use of which is restricted to that area or purpose. Further detai15 of 88th fund ai8 disclosed in not8 19. 43 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Ineoma and &ndowm•nts Donations and legacies income including donations and grants that pr(>vide core funding or are of a general nature is recognised where there is entitlement, probability of receipt and the amount can be measured with suffiaent reliability. Income frorn Govemrnent and other gr8nls, whelher'capilal, grants or'revenue, grants, is recognised when the charity h8s entitlement to the fLJnds. 8ny perforrnance conditions 8ttached to the grants have been mel, It Is probable that the income will be received and the arnount be rneasured reliably and 15 not deferred. Deferred incorlle represents amounts received for future periods and is released to incorning resources in the period for which. it has been received. Such income is only deferred when.. The donor specifies that the grant or donation must only be used in future accounting periods,. or The donor has imposed conditions which must be met before the charity has unwndition81 enlrfclernenl. Income derived from events is recognised as earned (that is, as the related goods or serVI￿S are provided). Investment income is recognised on a receivable basis. Income frorn charitable activities includes income recognised as earned (as the related goods or servi￿$ are provided) under contract or where entitlement lo grant funding is subject to specific performance onditions. Grant income included in this category provides funding to support prograrnrne activities and is recognised where there is entitlement, probability of re￿Ipt and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability. Expenditure Li8bililies are recognised as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation commilling the charity lo the expenditure. All expenditure is acwunled for on an accruals basis and has been ¢18ssified under headings that aggregate 811 costs related to the category. Raising funds are the costs of trading for fundraising purposes. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its benefiaaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. Support costs Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activty cost categories on a basis consistent wth the use of resourtss, for example, allocating property costs by floor areas, or per capita, staff costs by the time spent and other costs by their usage. Fixèd assèts Individual fixed assets costing £1000 or more are initially recorded at cost. Amortisation Amortisation is provided on intangible fixed assets so as to write off the cost, less any estimated residual valLJe, over their expected useful economic life as follows". Website 5 years straight line basis Depreciation Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets so as lo write off the cost or valuation, less any estimated residual value. over Iheii expected useful economic life as follows.. Fixtures, fittings and equipment 25°/o reducing balan 44 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Cash and Cash Equivalants Cash and cash eqLJivalents comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-tem) highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subjeci to an insignificant risk of change in value. Operating lease$ Rentals payable under operating leases are charged in the statement of finanaal activities on a straight line basis over the lease tem). Pènsions The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions are charged in the statement of financial activities as they become payable in acctsrdance with the rules tsf the scheme. Donatlons and legaeles Unrèstrictèd R*strict*d Endowmènt Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Donations and lègaeiès Appeals and donations Edward Goslling Foundation 8,365 8,365 225,000 233,385 9,791 225,000 225,000 8,3e5 9,791 Grants Lloyds Bank Foundation Small grants under £5,000 Garfield Weston 25,000 26,925 5,000 31,925 30,000 55,000 28,925 5,000 31,925 35,290 5,000 225,000 265,290 64,791 or the donations 8nd18g8ci8s incotne in 2024 £34,971 18lated to un185trict8d funds and £30,0(K) related to restricted funds. Other trading a¢tivitie¥ Unr85trictèd Rèstricted Endowm8nt Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Raising funds Fundraising 4,997 4,997 7,604 All of the othertrading income in 2024 related lo unrestricted funds. 45 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Investments Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Funds Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2025 2024 Interest on cash deposits 15.231 15,231 9,078 All of the investment income in 2024 related to unrestricted funds. Charitable activities UnreBtrict8d Restricted Endowment Total Funds Total Fund8 Fund5 Funds Funds 2025 2024 Charitable activities BBC Children in Need Ministry of Justice Francis C Scott Henry Smith Charty Copeland Cornmunily Fund CCFI Sellafield Family Wellbeing Cumbria County Councill COMF/ MHCLG PCC Cumbria Edward Gostling Foundation Sm811 grants under £5.000 National Lottery Award for Ml National Lottery Community Fund Cumbria Community Foundation Together We Icutnbrial Masonic Charitable Foundation NHS England The Bir¢hall Trust Charfes Hayward Foundation L8ather5ellers Other income 8,523 212,294 24,200 75,000 48,719 33,100 8.523 212,294 24,200 75.000 48,719 33.100 33,879 229,218 23,400 80,000 26,415 49.130 32,334 12,550 44,884 35,298 35,520 35,520 157,594 25,000 12,500 10.000 20,000 20.000 53,041 53.041 48.346 10,000 10.000 2.393 20,000 118.600 8,100 20.000 20,000 15,690 770.064 10,000 1,813 20,000 99,500 2,393 20,000 118,600 8,100 20,000 20,000 15,690 78.517 13,030 875.123 691,547 Of the income from charitable activities in 2024 £25,530 related lo unrestricted funds and £849,593 related to restricted funds. 46 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Expendlture Ralslng funds Charltable actlvltles Total 2025 Total 2024 Direct ¢osts Fundraising costs Tools and materia15 Wages and salaries Staff NIC (Employers) Staff pensions Birchalls subcontractor for Cumbria PCC Extemal operation81 resour Staff training Volunteer expenses Conference costs Room hire Travel and subsistence R8UUltment exp8ns85 34,280 34.280 1,794 543,139 42,314 15,622 78.769 77,198 7.484 13841 6,487 14.504 18,938 3.189 843,334 24.567 2,076 500,323 39,179 14,623 71.884 92,341 16.404 629 1,794 543,139 42,314 15,622 78.769 77,198 7.484 13841 6,487 14,504 18,938 3.189 809,054 7,848 18,700 1.914 790,488 34,280 Support costs Rent and serviTrs Insurance Repairs and maintenance Telephone and fax Office equiprnent, licences and computer costs Printing. postage and stationery Sundry expenses Communications and marketing Accountancy fees The aLJdit of the charity's 8nnu81 accounts Independent examinerfs fee Legal and professional fees Bank charges Amortisation of websrfte costs Depreaation of office equipment 22,998 7,900 8,269 8.347 10,972 810 7,417 39,201 3.840 12,000 22,998 7.900 8,269 8.347 10,972 810 7.417 39,201 3.840 12,000 19,216 6,029 3,856 7.278 23,207 1,394 6,758 20,987 3,250 750 19,221 42 16,877 11881 132 567 139,142 16,877 11881 132 567 139,142 755 112,743 34,280 948,196 982,476 903,231 Of the expenditure in 2024 £22,053 rel8led lo unresliicled funds and £881,178 rel8led lo reslrided funds. 47 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Governance costs 2025 2024 Accountaney fees Auditors remuneration Independent examinerfs fee Legal and professional fees 3,840 12,000 3,250 750 19,221 23.221 18,877 32.717 Trustees. remuneration and expenses During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefrts12024- £nill. During the year ended 31 Marth 2025, 1 Trustee 12024 - 21 was reimbursed £33 {2024 £2551 for expense5 incuired. Net incoming resourceB Net incoming resources is stated after charging.. 2025 2024 Hire of othei assets- operating leases The audit of the charity's annual accounts 22,998 19,216 12,000 12,000 Depreciation of owned assets Arnorti$8tion 567 132 755 48 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued 10 Employees, remuneratlon The rnonthly average number of persons lincluding senior management) employed by the charity during the year was as follows.. 2025 No. 2024 No. Charitable activities 21 21 The aggregate payroll costs of these persons were as follows.. 2025 2024 Wages and salaries Swi81 security Other pension costs 543,139 42,314 15,622 601,075 5(XJ,323 39,179 14,623 554,125 No employee received ernolumenls of rnore than £60.000 during the year. During the period key management remuneration (including trustees) amounted to £139,443 12024 £137.6741. Safety Nel UK has a flat leadership structure consisting of a team of three Heads of Servi￿. Two of these posts are operation818nd Include client based work. One is non oper8tional 818 cost of £45.62612024 - £44.5201. An ex-gratia payment of £6,354 was made to a foirner employee during the year, following a settlement f8¢ilit8led by the Advisory, Conciliation and Aibitiation Service IACASI. This has been in¢luded wthin staff costs. 49 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued 11 Taxation The regISte￿d charity is exempt from taxation on income and gains. 12 Intangibl• fixad assats Webslte Cost Additions 12,087 Amortisation Charge for the year 132 Net book valu8 As al 31 March 2025 11,955 13 Tanglble fixed assets Fixtures, fittings and equipment Cost As at 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 18,227 Depreciation As at 1 April 2024 Charge for the year As at 31 March 2025 15,963 567 16,530 Net book value As at 31 Maich 2025 1,697 2,264 As at 31 March 2024 14 Debtors 2025 2024 Other debtors Prep8yments and accrued income 100 20,819 20,919 56,576 56,576 50 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued 15 Credltors.. Amounts falllng due wlthln one year 2025 2024 Trade creditors Taxation and social security Accruals and deferred income 9.479 4,530 167,116 181,125 10.568 9,274 96,601 116.443 Creditors amounts falling due within one year includes deferred income.. 2025 2024 As at 1 April 2024 129,600 181,6001 83,000 131,000 Arnount released to incorning resources Arnount deferred in the year As al 31 March 2025 81,600 81,600 16 Operatlng lease commltments As at 31 March 2025 the charity had lolal future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases as follows.. Land and Buildings Othgr 2025 2024 2025 2024 Within one year Within two and five years 13,000 24.375 37,375 1,379 345 1,724 17 Pension scheme Deflned contrSbutlon penslon scheme The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. The pension cost charge for the period represents contributions payable by the charity to the scheme and amounted to £15,62212024- £14,623). There were no outstanding or prepaid contribLJtions at eitherthe beginning or end of the finanaal year. 18 Related parti8S Controlling entity The charity is controlled by the trustees. 51 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued 19 Analysls of funds At 1 April 2024 Incoming resources Resources expended At 31 March 2025 Transfers General Funds Unrestricted income fund 321,678 134,035 1227,4571 52,313 280,569 Restricted Funds Children in Need Ministry of Justice Rape Support Office of the Poli¢e, Fire and Critne Commi5510ner Copeland Community Fund Safety Net Fund The Henry Smith Charity CCFI Sellafield Family Wellbeing Cumbria County CouncillCOMFIDLUHC Francis C Scott Charitable Trust Edward Gostling Foundation National Lottery Community Fund Masonic Charitable Foundation NHS- Contract NHS- Asylurn Funding Ch8de5 Hayw8rd Foundation National Lottery- Awards 4,266 8.523 112.7891 212,294 1212,2941 35.520 135.5201 6,634 52,313 48,719 143,1441 12,209 152,3131 75.000 175,0001 33,100 133,1001 12.550 112.5501 24,200 114,1171 10,083 3,785 13,7851 53.041 153,0411 20,000 95.000 23,SQO 120,IXJOI 195.0001 189,8791 66,079 20.000 120.(K)01 20,000 120,(X)01 Cumbria Community Foundation H8dfield Trust 10,000 5.000 696,547 110,tK)01 15.0001 1755,0191 133,077 152,3131 22,292 Permanent Endowment The Edward Gostling Fund 225.000 225.000 454.755 1,055.582 1982.4761 527,861 52 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Children in Need Three ye8r fvnding12021-241 This project wll deliver spe¢ialisl sUPPOrt for thildren and young people who have experienced sexual 8ndlor domestlc abuse, violence and exploitation, leading to feeling better, irnpioved relation5hip5 and ability to cope. MOJ (Rape Support Fund) ContribLrtion tOW8rds the provision of support for fetnale and male victim5 of rape and sexual abuse including child sexual abuse. Office of the Police, Fire and Clime Commissioner rape and serious sexual assault in Cumbria. Funding to provide a counselling setviee for victims of Safety Net Fund This is an internal restricted fund and is an accumulation of the small balances of old restricted funds. As agreed, when possible, with funders for repurposing towards our charitable activities. Henry Smith Charity - Improving Lives - £35,OQO re￿iVed of a 3 year grant of £210,OQO that supports the recovery of both adults and children affected by rape, sexual and domestic abuse andlor exploitation across Cumbria. Henry Smith Charity - £40,000 received for three years1£120,000 in totall towards three years. salary and on costs of a freelance Duly and Assessment Practitioner supporting adults and children affected by rape, sexual and domestic abuse andlor exploitation, and negatively impacted by the Cov1￿19 pandemic, in Cumbria. Cumbria Community Foundation I Sellafield (Family Wellbeing) - Funding towards the cost of employing a specialist children and young people's practitioner ICYPPI to work with whole families who have experienced abuse including sexual violence, children sexual abuse, exploitation, rape, on-line abuse and dorlleslic violence in Wesl Cumbria. Cumberfand Council- Aw8id of contract and allocation of fvnds to enable the Authority to rneet its Statutory Duty in respect of Domestic Abuse Supported Accommodation- DASAI housing related therapeutic support for Gumberland Council area. Francis C Scott Charitable Trust- To support the costs of earfy intervention I prevention work Tier 1&2 grant of £72,600 over 3 years. National Lottery ICommLJnity Fundl- Partnership project wth The 8irchall Tiust and Safety Net UK ft)r the provision of a collaborative county-wide trauma infomed services for people affected by sexual abuse, rape and sexuali5ed violence. Masonic Charitable Foundation - £60,000 over 3 years towards the employment of a Children and Young People's Practitioner, providing speaalist recovery support to those who have experienTrd sexual or domestic abuse. NHS North East & North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (the ICBI The Recipient provides therapeutic support services for victims of sexual assault within North Cumbria. NHS North East & North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (the ICBI The Reapient will be working with women and children residing in Cumbria who are seeking Asylum who have been subject to abuse, sexual abuse rape and or exploitation, either in their horne country or on their journey to the UK. Charles Hayward Foundation- Funds towards tier 3 support by a CYP therapist in West Cumbria. National Lottery IAFAI- Funds lo cover volunteers and tier 4 seNices. Cumbria Cornrnunity Foundation- Cost of a CYP therapist in West Cumbria. Hadfield Trust support for our Tr8uma Inforrned Praclioners Project. enabling us lo continue delivering our tier one and tier two services. 53 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued Prior pariod At 1 April 2023 IncomSng resources Resources expended Transfers At 31 March 2024 General Funds Unrestricted income fund 207,770 77,003 122,0531 58,958 321,678 Restricted Funds Children in Need G8rfield Weston Foundation Big Lottery Fund Ministry of Justice Rape Support Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Copeland Communty Fund Safety Net Fund The Henry Smith Charity CCFI Sellafield Family Wellbeing Cumbria County CouncillCOMFIDLUHC Francis C Scott Charitable Trust Edward Gosling Foundation National Lottery Community Fund Together We Icurnbrial Masonic Charitable Foundation NHS- Asylum Funding 4,520 3,908 33,879 30,000 10,000 134,1331 133,9081 110,0001 1230,3211 4,266 229,218 1,103 72,222 19,603 52,313 30,788 157,594 26,415 1168,9711 139,3841 160.8451 6,634 52,313 80,000 59,130 1110.7881 159,1301 336 35,298 135,6341 3,977 23,400 127.7861 127,1681 148,7211 11,8131 409 5,953 25,000 48,346 3,785 375 1,813 20,000 120,(K)01 133,4211 1881.1781 99,500 879.593 66,079 133.077 193.620 158.9581 401,390 956,596 1903,2311 454,755 20 Transfer The transfer of £52,313 relates to funds held left over from previous projects, as a number of years have now passed Sin￿ completion of the projects, the trustees have agreed that the funds can be transferred to unrestricted funds. 54 Safety Net IUKI Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2025 . continued 21 Net assets by fund Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds 2025 Total Funds 2024 Intangible assets Tangible assets Gurrenl assets Creditors.. Amounts falling due within one year Nel assets 11,955 11,955 1,697 695,334 901 152,391 2,264 568,934 542,943 150,1251 505.569 1131,0001 22.292 1181,1251 527.861 1116,4431 454.755 Prior period Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds Total Funds 2024 Total Funds 2023 Tangible assets Current assets Creditors.. Amounts falling due within one year Net assets 1,062 355,459 134,8431 1,202 213,475 181,6001 2,264 568,934 1116,4431 3,019 449,628 151,2571 321,678 133,077 454,755 401,390 55 Thanks Thank you to our staff, funders, partners and volunteers for the support we have received in 2024-2025. We could not have run Safety Net without your help. The Henry Smith Charity qlobols COPELAND COMMUNITY FUND FCSCT FAMILY WELLBEING Garfield Weston FOUNDATW)N CUMBRIA CUMBRIA COMMUNITY FUND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ALLIANCE NHS Ministryof C U M B It l A JUSTICE North East and North Curnbria Masonic LEATHERSELLew" FOUNDATIQN Charitable Foundatlon Cumberland Council The Edward Gostling Foundatio We would also like to say a very big thank you to our service users. To recover from the trauma of abuse takes huge bravery. Thank you for trusting us and for working so hard to transform your lives. 56 Safety Net l Fisher St Carllsle CA3 8RR E: offlce@safetynet.uk T: 01228 515859 W: www.safetynetuk.org @safetynetnorth @safetynet_uk @safetynetuk O Safety Net (UK) 2025. Registerod charity number: 1164998. 57