dmcf Muslim Charities Forum HARITIES SUPPORT I CONNECT I REPRESENT 2023 s ol the Collectivè J"p" .11 ANNUAL TRUSTEES, REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Period ended 31 December 2023 l. IJ l..Li:. TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 1 05 1 Reference and Admlnlstratlve Detalls of the Charlty Welcome A Message from our Chair A Message from our CEO The MCF Story Our Trustees Internal Actlvltl•s Funding Partners Membership The MCFTeam Outreach Communications Key Actlvltles Give Smart Give Safe Cost of Living Cris15 Climate Action Great 8ig Green Week COP28 Muslim Charities Corsvention 2023 20 1 Internatlonal Respons• Global Crisis Response De-Risking Partnershlps 22 1 Outreach & Events 23 1 24 1 Publlcatlons Financial report CORPORATE DIRECTORY REFERENCE & ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 TRUSTEES Chair.. Moazzam Malik CMG Hameed El Asaly Dr Hany Abdul Cawad El-Banna OBE Syed Lakthe Hassanain Tufail Hussain Mukhtar Karim Saffa Mir Madiha Raza Shuaib Yusaf PRINCIPAL OFFICE 6 Whlt•hors• M￿$ 37 Westminster Brid9È R￿d London, SEI 7QD BANKS Ur*lty Trust Bank 9 Btlndl•y Plaee 81rmlngham Bl 2HB HS8C Bank ple 130 New Str*¢t Birmingham 82 4JV CHARITY REGISTERED NUMBER 1166149 INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS Regis House 45 Kin9 wllllam str¢Èt London, EC4R 9AN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Fadl Itani OBE SOLICITORS Bates Wells 10 Qufon Street Place London EC4RIB • Muslim Charities Forum A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE A HEARTFELTTHANKS TO ALL OUR MEMBERS: AFRICAN ETHAR HIF RELIEF Human Rellèl Found•tlon OEvUOPMENITkUST Deen Relief ¢? 1SLAmic MUSLIM CHARITY Goodwill Caravan Islamlc Help AELIEF National Zakat Four)dèiion- LAtI< FATEIMH urrynah weléore trust Muslim Hand5 OUR SINCERETHANKS TO OUR FUNDINC PARTNERS: AZIZ',-I )[ INI bll l( IN Cadbury TNsi CITY IRII)GE FOUNDA TION the Tudortrust 1SLAmic A1 VIEUEF Muslim Hands OUR SINCERE THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTING PARTNERS: ICAFA, qp THE CLIMATE COALITION CONCILIATION RESOURCES VCS Emergencies Partnership / Vision for I Volunteering apmMI ZAKAT HOUSE 2023 annual truste￿. report • 4 CHAIRMAN'S FOREWORD Dear Friends, 2023 has been another busy year for Muslim Charities Forum {MCF). Our role has always been to provide support, to connect the sector and to represent British Muslim charities and those that they serve, to ensure they have a voice and access to the resources they need. l am delighted to share this report with you. It sets out our activities for the April December period {nine months, as we are adjusting our financial year). This year we were pleased to secure further support from a number of funders including City Bridge Foundation who are investing in our capacity to enable system change in and for our sector. Infrastructure support is vital to help social action and charitable work flourish, thrive and improve resi lience. This is a pressing need Considering recent global crises and increased financial pressures. We look forward to working with all our partners in building stronger foundations to ensure charities and community organisations of all sizes have the tools they need to continue to grow sustainably. In 2023, we continued to conduct research and present findings across a number of pressing issues affecting the sector, their service users and donors. From ongoing climate change to the Cost-of-Living crisis, the MCF team has sought to examine how multiple, external factors impact the work of both NGOS and INGOS. The British Muslim charity sector is continuing to grow fast reflecting the communities they draw from. I hope that many of these growing organisations will chose to join MCF, unlocking the potentia I for collaboration, partnership and impact. The highlight of theyear was undoubtedly the Muslim Charities Convention.. The Blessings of The Collective held in October. I was delighted to see so many familiarfaces from across the civil society sector coming together to celebrate the contribution of Muslim charities in the UK and abroad. Finally, my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to our members, partners. funders, my fellow board members and MCF'S dedicated staff for their commitment to make the blessings of the collective a reality. Yours, Moazzam Mallk CMG Chair Muslim Charities Forum CEO'S MESSAGE Dear Colleagues and Supporters, As an infrastructure and members-led network, we continue to support, connect and represent the sector as we respond to needs. Our research and relationships with British Muslim charities inform our work and ensure that MCF can provide resources and support in delivering best practice and ensuring our charltles can reach thelr full potential. Of course. our biggest achievement of the year was the Muslim Charities Convention The Blessings of The Collective which we held in London. Hosting over 40 speakers, 26 exhibitors and sold-out tickets to over 300 delegates, this fully-packed one-day conference was an amazing opportunity to connect and learn together. At MCF we truly believe in the blessings that arise from collaboration and raising one another up and we were honoured to see so many of you that day who share our vision. My sincere thanks go to the team, volunteers, speakers and facilitators who invested their time and knowledge in making the day successful and possible. 2023 was no exception and as this report highlights, the MCF team have continued to work across a variety of areas, responding to needs and the ever- evolving social action landscape. This year, we invested more effort in climate action by assisting organisations and colleagues who are working to mitigate the effects of climate change on disadvantaged communities. We also continued working with various partners to address the enduring financial challenges faced by organisations as a result of de-risking and debanking. Our sector is growing, while the needs of the various communities we serve are increasing at a faster rate, exceeding the available time and resources. This places more pressure on us to be more innovative and increase our capacity to empower and support grassroots charities and community groups further. l am pleased to report that this year, we have advanced our initiatives in Sector Improvement, Policy, and Advocacy in response to urgent concerns raised by our colleagues throughout the sector. From crisis communication strategies to analysing the effects of the cost of living on donor behaviour, we are committed to delivering pertinent information and support to organisations of varying sizes. The journey to persuade friends and partners in the funding sector about the importance of system change. as well as the necesslty and benefits of strategically supporting i nfrastructure networks such as MCF, continues. Yours faithfully, Fadi Itani OBE Chief Executive Officer 2023 annual trustees. report * WELCOME THE MCF STORY Our founder, Dr Hany El Banna, has dedicated his lifetime to one of philanthropy, helping others and creating innovation for social good. Back in 2007. in response to the growing number of British Muslim-led charities, his vision was for a strong and unified charity sector that serves the needs of the community together. He identified the importance of unity and therefore set out to create a forum where Muslim charities could come together to learn and support one another. Nluslim Charities Forum was created to be a source for Muslim social action which would enable Muslim charities to become more effective and reach their full potential. In 2007, MCF was formed as a space for charities to connect, represent and support one another and within the mainstream charity sector. Fifteen years later and we are now the UK network for British N4 uslim charities working for social good in the UK and abroad, connected with over 400 charities serving people in need to combat poverty, homelessness, sickness, or suffering. Th rough our network, we collectively build a more accountable, transparent, and efficient Muslim charitable sector to improve our ability, both as individual organ isations and as a sector, to contribute to a more just and sustainable world. 7 Muslim Charities Forum HUMANITY We believe that all human beings are created equal and with the same God-given dignity.. serving humankind regardless of any differences is one of the most noble actions any person can undertake. ACCOUNTABILITY We believe that all resources are made available by God in the form of trust.. we are 'trustees' of the resources at our disposal and we are accountable to the people we serve. the public, regulatory bodies and ultimately to God for our actions. TRANSPARENCY Our shared faith encourages us to be truthful and reliable, and to keep records of our interactions. Therefore, we are committed to be clear and open about our policies, our resources, and our impact. EFFECTIVENESS We strive to be productive and to avoid wastefulness. Therefore. we are committed to conducting efficient allocation resources and to monitor our performance. EXCELLENCE OUR CORE VALUES Our values and ethics, founded in our faith, mean we aim for excellence in all that we do. Therefore, we are committed to operate in legal, ethical, and professional way, doing things Wlth sincere intentions and in the best, most correct, and most complete manner. 2023 annual trustÉes' report • WELCOM WHAT WE DO We pursue our vision and mission by working in three fundamental areas: WE SUPPORT We support MCF members and their staff by providing a range of services to enhance their capabilities and help them to respond to 3 rapidly evolving environment. Through sector improvement, we strive to support our charities to strengthen their accountability to stakeholders, improve thei r efficiency and have greater impact. Members benefit from.. Freelaffordable opportun- ities for organisational and individual development and growth. WE CONNECT We improve connections between MCF members and other charities and NGOS (international and domestic), regulatory bodies, civil society actors, academia, and the private sector, so that together we can be more impactful. Members benefit from.. Access to networki ng opportunities within the British Muslim and wider charitable sector, which are difficult to access as a single organisation. WE REPRESENT We listen to the needs and challenges of MCF members and provide a joint voice and representation for the British Muslim charitable sector at a national level. • Muslim Charities Forum OUR TRUSTEES Hamèèd Al-Alsaly Olre¢tor of Emeiglng Markets at Hurran Appeal Dr. Hany El-Banna OBE Founder of MCF Ilndependeni Madlha Raza Publ1¢ Affalrs and Comrrunl¢•rions Exp•rt Ilndtrpendantl a%al Moazzam Mallk CMG Ch8lrman of MCF Ilndependentl Mukhtar Karlm CEO.The Lady Fatemah Saffa Mlr Charltles, ELlu¢4tlon Ind Soclal EnterprSse Lavryer Ilndtpendtntl Shuaib Yusaf Syed Lakhte Hassanain Tufail Hussain Dlrector of Islamlc R•llof UK CF Treasurer & CEO of Al-Khalr Foundatlon Chairman of Muslirn Hands 2023 annual trustÈ*' rÈport • 10 INTERNAL ACTIVITIES INTERNAL DEVELOPMENT Funding Partners During this period, we were honoured to receive support from clty Brldge Foundation, London's biggest independent charity funder. Their support enabled us to launch our Advocacy stream of work, representing the sector in pressing issues and working to remove barriers to growth. CITY BRIDGE FOUNDATION Membership The following charities joined Muslim Charities Forum as members during the period April-july 2023: Deen Relief ¢? Natlonal Zakat Foundation" Goodwill Carovon The MCF Team Samllra Hasan, a former Future Leader with MCF, joined the staff team as Cllmate Action Lead. The role is supported by the Aziz Foundation. Abdulsaml Arjumand joined as Pollcy and Advocacy Lead, working on supporting the issues which affect the sector to raise representation. This role is supported by City Bridge Foundation. Mudaser All joined the team as Head of Development with a focus on sector improvement. This role is supported by City Bridge Foundation. Outreach Communications MCF MONTHLY CFHottihly We continued to connect and inform our colleagues across the sector through MCF Monthly, our email newsletter. Featuring highlights from the work of the team. partners. the latest news, grant and job opportunities, the readership of the monthly newsletter has grown to more than 800 subscribers. vAmcf NEW riEPORT'. 11 • Muslim chariti￿ Forum KEY ACTIVITIES GIVE SMART GIVE SAFE 2023 For the third year, MCF continued the educational campaign of raising knowledge and awareness among donors about safe online charitable giving through an animated video series, social media posts, and MCF'S practical Give Smart Give safe guide. This campaign took place during the holy month of Ramadan when giving increases and British Muslims give in excess of £iOO million to domestic and international causes. The campaign aims to promote safer giving and effective charities with key topics includi ng charity registration, zakat compliance, admin costs, Gift Aid, the contentious IO0% donation policy. addressing misinformation and other related topics. VAm¢f Give Smart Give Safe rnU511mchJdtlestonthm GSGS soclal medla Campaign Uoworyol Are you donatlng 501ely online? ol (IODty4dO don1 Il o ¢hOrtty 1)46Q t4kQt 114 ￿￿1￿cha￿lIeS1Ollm How clear is the chorlty's Impaci? ChBcktha Oivo smoii Give Smart Give Safe Guide th8 ImpuBt ol y￿1 onolioll9. As part of the social media campaign, adverts ran across Islam Channel platforms during the month of Ramadan. On the 6th ofApril MCF'S CEO Fadi Itani and Digital Media Officer intern Sumaya Chowdhry discussed the GSGS campaign in more detail at Islam Channel on The Big Ramadan Show. Sumaya Choudhury, Future Leader and Fadi Itani, CEO featuring on Islam Channel -FAknthi 2023 annual trusteos. report • 12 COST OF LIVING CRISIS In partnership with Nfp Research, MCF launched a survey to conduct national research into the impact of the Cost-of-Livirng crisis on volLJnteering and charitable giving of the UK Muslim community. The report launched on the 13th December was supported by an online roundtable discussion about the key findings and was well received across the sector. Key findings from those British Muslims surveyed included.. Brit15h Nluslim$ share many comrnon concerns - though some are un¢qu* Lo thi5 Gommunity. The cOst￿l-l1vIng ¢rlsi$ h•s hurt pgrson41 Ilnance& British Muslim Charltablè GlvSng Report 11 8rttlsh Musllms were Ilkely to anticipate spending Cutbacks. Brltlth M￿￿1m1 t)onatlon motlvators and methods tend t¢ be f•lth. bamd. rAm¢F Volunt••rlng Is poputsr. but h•1 b•carn• rnor• difficult. mcf 2021-2022 edition British Nluslim Charitable Givlng Report11 PACT QFTHE COST- Report Launch & Roundtable discussion 13 • Muslim ChafitiÈs Forum KEY ACTIVITIES CLIMATE ACTION To continue our work in climate action awareness, on the 18th Nlay MCF held a Cllmate Artlon Round-table to coordi nate and d iscuss how organisations can implement climate action in preparation for the Great Big Green Week. Key speakers included Islamic Relief UK, The Climate Coalition. Ummah for Earth and Greenpeace MENA t4pTA ii*em Rafat Insplrfng CllnpoteA¢tlon Climate Action oundtable discussion COP28 MCF promoted continued awareness and provided key updates and calls to action across social media for the duration of COP28, the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference ofthe Parties of the UNFCCC which was held ir) Dubai from 30th November- 12th December. COP28 UAE irnble •ov UK clirfe Kenya."SEEDAt COP28 Social Media Posts -mcf 2023 annual trustÈes' rÈport • 14 GREAT BIG GREEN WEEK 2023 THEGREAT- BIG GREEN WEEKqp DLJring the Great Big Green Week, MCF promoted sustainable practices by sharing knowledge, projects, tips and resources for individuals and organisations in the sector for climate action. These included.. Blg Green Jummah - rqcF encouraged climate action awareness by reaching out to UK mosques to dedicate their Khutbah on Friday16th of June to embracing sustainabi lity as Muslims and looking after the environment. Islam Channel'salaam Brltaln, MCF was invited to discuss the Great Big Green Week and the Big Green Jummah project. Sumaya discussed the positive response to this campaign and MCF'S success stories as an organisation raising awareness about the responsibil ity of the Muslim community as khalifas of this world. Samiira undertook climate communications training with Medla Trust (Weston Communicating Climate Programme l Media Trust) 29th September - MCF created a blog post to highlight the impact ofgovernment decision-making concerning climate action. Charity leaders are asking the government to reconsider their decisions as this will exacerbate the suffering of many vulnerable groups. 24th October- MCF take5 part in the Internatlonal Day of Cllmate Actlon with The Climate Action Survey. researching how Muslim charities and organisations can be supported in implementing sustainable practices and environmental projects. Also, a giveaway for the first 20 respondents included receiving a free copy of'Green Deen What Islam Teaches about Protecting the Planet.. Sumaya Choudhury. Future Leader on Islam Channel's'salaam 8ritain' for G8GW Green Deen What Islam Teaches about Protecting the Planet S+M rities Foru 23 annual trust re rt+16 KEY ACTIVITIES MUSLIM CHARITIES CONVENTION 2023 MUSLIM CHARITIES 2023 In October we were delighted to organise and host The Blesslngs Of The CollectSve. our flrst ever Musllm Charltles Conventlon 2023 IMCC231. Held in London on October 12th, this inaugural event culminated many months ofwork and organisation to bring together key speakers, specialist workshops, networking, advice and support to over 300 delegates from across the sector. Tickets went on sale on July12th and sold out, attracti ng colleagues and supporters from across the UK for a full day conference. With over 40 speaker5, and 26 exhlbltor5, the event focused on the potential of M uslim charities working together to expand their i mpact. Keynote speakers included Sarah Owen MP, Orlando Fraser Chair of the Charity Commission and Gerald Oppenhelm, Chief Executive ofthe Fundraising Flegulator, and Trustee and Deputy Chair at National Emergencies Trust. Workshops covered topics like governance, safeguardlng, ploneerlng women, Cybersecurlty, fundralslng, ¢harfty Investment and ¢ommunlcatlon$ crlsls management. CHAPI 17 * MLJslim Ch3ritiÉs Forum l/ We were honoured to have Pfida as Platinum Partner for MCC23- an ethical fin-tech striving to provide equal and fair opportunities to save and invest with Shariah compliance. Euro Quallty Foundatlon as Gold Partner- a charitable arm of Euro Quality Lambs that distributes funds to inspirational organisations and projects that eliminate poverty & social injustice. MCF member The Lady Fatemah Charltable Trust as Gold Partner & small charities Delegates Sponsor. Long-serving members Al-Khalr Foundatlon and Islamlc Rellef provided their support as a Gold Partner too. Bates Wells sollcltors were announced as our legal partner and Barrow Cadbury Trust as strategic partner. The event was supported by a media campaign across BBC Radlo, sector arTrd mainstream news outlets, raising awareness of the value and contribution of UK Muslim-led charities. It was a very busy day, our efforts were rewarded with excellent attendance and positive feedback from multiple colleagues and organisations who described it as"long-awalted" and *he hlghllght of the year.. A huge thank you to the MCF team and volunteers who made the day possible. cf Mt>SLIM '.CHAPITIES CONVENTION 2091 cf Ill I Iliiu Orlando Frasor, Chair of the Charity Cornmis5i0n with Chairman Moazzam Malik 2023 annual trustees. report • 18 KEY ACTIVITIES Over 40 Qver 300 fitil delegates workshops 26 exhlbltors speakers day 12 breakouts and panels ',MUSLIM TIES 4123 UKF¥Thdr•1￿Tr9 Chudry 'MUSLIM CHARITIES CONVINTION 2023 MCC23 media coverage,. UKFundraising, BBC News Wlth gnytltude to our Conventlon Partne￿. pficlG Bates ells DA1 Barrow CadlMry Tru 19 • MLJslim Charities Forum INTERNATIONAL RESPONSE GLOBAL CRISIS RESPONSE 2023 saw an unprecedented number of international crises and natural disaster. As part of our work to support our INGO colleagues, we provided strategic support to colleagues working on the ground in d isaster areas. coordinati ng situational updates and response. These included producing social media posts and an updated Donor Emergency Guide for the Morocco Earthquake18th Sept) and the Libya floods110 Sept). ￿￿1mcharlts2JfOturn Social media awareness posts ovirb*Nci•b•boN¢R% IC1Vttp4￿f¢fv[SArr MU￿1￿charltwI5lo[uftI Donor Emergency Guide DE-RISKING A long-term issue affecting many charities within the Muslim and mainstream charitable sector, we continued our work in raisi ng awareness of the financial obstacles and challenges faced by many of our organisational colleagues. MCF launched a survey about de-banking and de-risking to compile important evidence that highlights the barriers Muslim non-profit organisations face when accessing mainstream banking. On the 14th August. our CEO published a Civil Society article, discussing the banking issues that members have faced for decades and calling for awarenes5 and action. We also partnered with Bond, Charity Finance Group, and Conciliation Flesources to conduct a comprehensive survey concerning the issue of debanking and derisking faced by Muslim charity organisations to understand the impact of counter-terrorism regulations. Our CEO, penned arnother article for Civil Society magazirne on November 15th. shedding light again on the obstacles faced by M uslim-led charities due to sudden bank account closures. He emphasised the need for banks to address these challenges and Ljrged for a thorough review of banking practices along with i ncreased transparency in decision-making processes. CONCILIATION RESOURCES CF 2023 annual trusteÉs' roporl • 20 PARTNERSHIPS PARTNERSHIPS As part of our work representing the sector, we partner with mainstream organisations to raise awa reness of concerns, barriers, and to work collaboratively to improve social action and civic engagement. On the 22nd June we were delighted to announce our partnership with Vlslon for Volunteerlng. A movement dedicated to creating a diverse and innovative future for voILJnteering. // Vision for I Volunteering We were also honoured to join Cllmat• A¢tlon for Assoclatlons {CAFAI membership striving to implement sustai nability programmes to make organisational changes across the sector. CAFA In the same month. from our long-term relationship supporting the Great Big Green Week, we were delighted to announce that we have joined The Climate Coalition an organisation committed to tackling climate change via government advocacy and campaigns, such as GBGW which MCF has been a part of since 2021 to protect and restore UK nature. 21 • Muslim Charities Forum OUTREACH AND EVENTS DOMESTIC OUTREACH & RESPONSE 2nd May- MCF Futurè Lèaders took part in an •ngaging Q&A with the Lord Nlayor of Wèstminster. Hamza Taouzzal• about his journey into politic MCFjoined an evenlng hosted by H.E. Mr 05man Koray Ertas, the new ambassador, to thank Muslim charities for their humanitarian efforts for the Syria and Turkiye Earthquake victims earlier this year. MCF a150 presented him with a small token of appreciation for his hospitality. Ilth May. MCF joined Muslim Hands at lThe Open Kltch•n', providing essential resources, such as free hot food to those in need in the community of Hounslow. Future Leaders attended the NCS Take Actlon Ev•nt- an opportunity to reflect on the skills developed and to boost confidence as a changemaker. Ist June - 7th June.. MCF celebrates Volunteers Week by featuring the work of different volunteers across the British Muslim charity sector on social media. August 2023 NICF was hosted by Sufra NW London at Stonebridge. a charlty organlsation and food/support hub providing support to the local community. 11 Evening hosted by Turkish ambassador H,E. Mr Osman Koray Ertas Lord Mayor of Westminster Hamza Taouzzale with MCF Future Leaders 2023 annual trustees, rÈwrt • 22 PUBLICATIONS Over the past year, MCF ha5 published select literary pieces on topical region5 a5 well a5 updating existing publications. This includes: Zaka Editio f he Foru IA FORUM Special edition ofThe Forum - Zakat.. Modern Challenges and Practical Solutions. A range of articles by diverse contributors from the sector, covering different elements of Zakat, including Sharia governance, Islamic jurisprudence, localisation of Zakat, Digital Zakat Distribution and how Zakat is beyond a mere transaction handled by Muslim charities. •1¥7ICALIOLVTIO¢II usli 8ritish Musllm Charitablè GlvSng R•port 11 A report that gives insight into British Muslim charities and Muslim donors, experiences and attitudes. Brltlsh Musllms Charftab Glvlng Report Al Our first report looked at donor awareness and behaviours across the community and sector, providing valuable insights into the motivations and barriers to fundraising. 23 • Muslim Chariti* Forum FINANCIAL REVIEW FINANCIAL REPORTING SECTION FINANCIAL REVIEW Muslim Charities Forum received donations. grants and other income worth ￿57,447 compared to £475,738 in year ended 31 March 2023 The statement of Financial Activities portrays that Muslim Charities Forum Spent £346,417 on charitable activities. At 31 December 2023 we carried forward a positive bank balance of f258,220. eserves Policy It is the policy of MCF that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a 5peciflc use should be maintained at a level which will ensure that, In the event ¢>f a significant drtsp in funding, they will be able to continue thè charity s current activities while consideration is given to ways in which additional funds may be raised. It is also the MCF policy to hold sufficient funds, currently three months for aclministrative expenditures, or currently at £SO,000 for closure of the charity should the need arise. The current level of unrestricted reserves, as at 31 December 2023, is E160,795. Plsk rnanagement The trustees continue to assess the major risks to which MCF is exposed to and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigaie the exposure to major risks. Beside the reliance on Member5. fee5. the charity has made goool progress in diversifying its funding model and it is now attraciing support from some Trusts and Foundètions. The trusrees have discussed this and recommended more focus on this area ancl in addition attracting more members. as well as exploring support from philanrhropists with a keen interest in developing the Muslim charity sector. Exclusively ChBrltable Actlvltles The members come from a wide spectrum of social and chèritable backgrounds. The organisations ancl NGOS who benefit from the implementation of the aims of MCF are diverse. All their activities are regarded as 'exclusively charitable. as defined by English law. The Board of trustees assists charities an(J organisations whose aims and activities are all entirely 'exclusively charitable. The Board of trusrees are fLJlly aware of this requiremenr. Publlc bènefit As a charity, Muslim Charities Forum must be able to clemon5trate that its objects ancl activities are for the public benefit as required by the Charities Act 2011. The trustee5 have all revieweoj the guidance 155ued by the ChBrity Commission on public benefii and have ensured that Muslim Charities Forum's objects and activities comply with this Statutory requirement. The trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the public benefir guidance published by the Charity Commission in determining the activities undertaken by the charity. This Report explain5 our main activitie5 and achievements in carrying out our aim. 2023 annual trustoÈs' report • 24 **FINANCIAL REVIEW** ## **STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES' REPONSIBILITIES** The trustees are responsible for preparing the trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in England & Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to: - ♦ Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - ♦ Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP; - ♦ Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - ♦ State whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; - ♦ 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 charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2077, and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. **Moazzam Malik CMG** Chairman **Shuaib Yusaf** Treasurer Date: 20/08/2024 25 + Muslim Charities Forum ## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM** I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity for the period ended 37 December 2023. ## **Responsibilities and basis of report** As the charity's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2077 ('the Act'). I report in respect of my examination of the charity's accounts carried out under section 745 of the 2077 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 745(5)(b) of the Act. ## **Independent examiner's statement** The charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 and I am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: - ♦ the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 730 of the Act; or - ♦ the accounts do not accord with those records; or - ♦ the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view' which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. **John Howard, FCA** Azets 2nd Floor, Regis House 45 King William Street London, EC4R 9AN 2023 annual trustees' report+ 26 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 Unrestricted Restricted fund5 funds 31.12.23 31.12.23 Total fvnd5 31.12.23 Total fvnd5 37.0123 Note Income from Donations and legacies 27S,I07 82,340 357h47 475,738 Total Intomtr 274107 8U40 357,447 475.738 Expendltur• on Charltable actlvitiès 24&448 104,469 350,917 450.867 Total expendlture 244448 104,469 350,917 450,867 Net Income / lexpenditurel 28,659 122,1291 6,530 24877 Transfer between funols 4,000 14.0001 Net mov¢m•nt In funds 32,659 126.1291 6.530 24877 Reconclllation of funds Total funds brought forward 128,136 126,241 254,377 229,506 Tptal fund5 carrled tprward 160,795 100,112 260,907 254J77 The notes on pages 29 to 36 form part of these financial starements. 27 • Muslim CharitiÈs Forum ## **BALANCE SHEET** ## **AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023** |||**_31 December 2023_**|_37_|_March 2023_| |---|---|---|---|---| ||**Note**|£|£|£| |**Fixed assets**||||| |Tangible assets|9|||77| |**Current assets**||||| |Debtors|70||54,965|| |Cash at bank and in hand|||204,708|| |||**274,470**|**259,673**|| |**Creditors**- amounts falling due within one year|77||(5,367)|| |Net current assets||**260,853**||**_254,306_**| |**Net assets**||**260,907**||**_254,377_**| |**Charity funds**||||| |Restricted funds|72|||726,247| |Unrestricted funds|72|||_728,736_| |**Total funds**||**260,907**||**_254,377_**| The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 20/08/2024 and signed on their behalf, by: ## **Moazzam Malik CMG** ## Trustee The notes on pages 29 to 36 form part of these financial statements. 2023 annual trustees' report+ **28** NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023 I. ACCOUNTING POLICIES l.l Basis of preparation of financial statements The financial Statements have been prepared to give a rue and fair, view and have departed from the Charities IAccounts and Fleportsl Flegulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a Irue and fair, view. This departure has involved following the Chèrities SORP IFRS 1021 published on 16 July 2014 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by chariti￿ statement of Recommended Practice effective from l April 2005 which has since been withdrawn. IFfis 1021, the general volunteer tirne of the Fiiends is not recognised and refer to the trustees, Rerx)rt for more information about their contribution. On receipt. donated professional services and donated faciliries are recognised On the basis of the valuÈ of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing ro pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on rhe open market.. a ¢orresptsndino amount Is then re¢ogni*d In e%pen¢Jiture in the period of receipt. The financial statements have beèn prèpared under the historical cost convention with Item5 recognised at cost or transaction value uriless otherw15e stated ID the relevant notes to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accorclance with the Statement of Recommended Practice.. Accounting and Fleporting by Charities preparing their account5 in accordance wilh the Financial Reporting srandard applicable in the UK and Republic of Iieland IFFIS 10211SSLJed on 16 July 2014 and Financial Reponing Stan(Jard applicable in the United Kingdom and Rèpublic of Irelancl IFFIS 1021 and Charities Act 2011. OthÈr income is re¢ognised in tho pericKI In which it is receivable ancl to the extent the good5 have been provided or on completion of the service. 1.4 Eyp•neJltifftr Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or consiruciive obligation to transfer economic benefit to third party. It is probable that 3 transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation Can be measurecj reliably. Eypenclirure Is classified by èctivify. The costs of Èach aciivity are made up of the total of direct COSt5 and 5harecl costs. Including 5UPPOrt cosis involved in undertaking each activity. Direct cost5 attribuiable to a single activity are allocated directly to thar activity. Shared costs which contribure to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consisteni with rhe use of resour￿$. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis ol time spent. ènd depreciation charges allocèted on rhe porti(>n of the as*t's use. Jslim Charities Forum constltutès a public bènefit èntity as defined by FRS 102. 1.2 Reporting period The period of financial reporting Covers the nine month period from l April 2023 to 31 December 2023. The comparative information covers the period from l April 2022 to 31 March 2023. These differing length 8ccounting periods will have an impacr on rhe comparability of certain numbers within these financial statements. Governance costs arè thosè incurrèd in connection with administration of the charity and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. 1.3 Income All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the Income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. Chariiable activities anol Governance costs are costs incurred on the charity's educational opèrarions. including 5UPPOrt costs and C￿15 relating to the governance of the charity apportione(J to charitable aciiviries. Foi legacie5. entitlement 15 taken as the earlier of the date on which eirher." the Charity is aware that probare has been granted. the estate has been finali5ed and notification has been made by the executorl51 to the Trust that a disrribution will be made. or when a disrribution is rèceived from the estate. Receipt of a legacy, in whole or in parr, is only considered probable when the amount can be measured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executor's intention ro make a distribution. Where legacie5 have bpen notified to the charity. or the charity 15 ware of the granting of probate. and the criteria for inc0￿e reccunition have not been met. then the legacy is trÈated as a contingent asset and disclosecj if material. 1.5 Tangible fixed a5setc aiirl rlepreciation A reviev¢ for Impairment of a fixed a55et 15 carried out if evenis or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of any fixed 355et may not be recoverable. Shortfalls between the carrying value of fixed assets and their recoverable amounts are recognised as impairments. Impairmenr losses are recognised in the StBtement of Financial Activitie Tangible flxed assets are cariied at ¢05t. net of dÈpreciation and any prov15ion for impairrnent. Depreciation is provicled at rates calculated to write off the ¢ost of fixed as*ts. less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful live5 on the following ba Donated *rvi¢es or facilities are recognised when thè charity has control over the item, any conditions a550ciated vvith the donated Item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the chariiy of the item Is probable and that economic ￿nefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with rhe Charities SOFIP Fixtures and fittings CompLJtÈr equipment 33% reducing balance 33% reducing balance 29 * Muslim CharitiÈs Forum I. ACCOUNTING POLICIES {CONTINUED) 1.6 Interest receivable measured at the best estimate of thÈ èm(>unts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time valLJe of rnoney 15 material, the provision 15 based on the present value of those amounts. discoLJnted at the pre-tax di%ount rate that reflects the risks Specific to the liability. The unwinding of thè discount Is recognised within interest payable ancl similar charge5. Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably ty the charity. this is normally upon norification of the Inter&t paid ¢>r payable by the Bank. 1.7 Debtor= Trade and other debtors are recognised èt the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. -10 Financial instruments The ¢harlty tsnly has financlal assets and finan¢lal liabS1ities of a kind that quality as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instrument5 are Initially recognised at rransa¢ti(>n value an(J subsequÈntly measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amort15ed cost Using the effective interest method. 1.8 Cash at bank and In hand Cash at bank and in hand includes cash ènd short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisitic>n or opening of the deposit or similar account. 1.11 Forelgn currencle5 Monetary a￿et5 and liabilities denominated in foreign Currencies are translated Int(> sterling at rates ¢>f exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. 1.9 Llabllltles and provlslon5 Liabilities are recogni5ed when there is an obligation at the 8alan¢e Sheet date as a result of a past event, It Is probable thai a transfer of economic benefit will be required in seitlement. and the amounr of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the charity anticipates it will pay tc> settle the debi or rhe amount it hès received ès advanced payments for the goods (>r *rvi¢es It must provide. Provisions are Transaction5 in foreign currencies are translated into sterllng at the rate ruling on the date of the transaction. Exchange gains and losses are recognised in the sratement of Financial Activities. 2. INCOME FROM DONATIONS AND LEGACIES Unr•strlct•d fund5 31.12.23 Restricted funds 31.12.23 Total lunds 31.12.23 Total funds 31.0123 Donations 135 135 7S3 Projects and oth•r income 200,772 82,340 283,112 318,925 Membership income 74.200 74200 156.050 Total donation5 and legacies 27&107 82J40 357.447 475738 Totol Sl Morch 2023 201.621 274,117 474738 20n annual trustoÉs' report • 30 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 3. DIRECT COSTS- CURRENT PERIOD Total 31.12.23 Total 31.0325 Governance Activities Wages. Salaries & social security 75,158 7SIS8 112.533 Oepreclation 17 17 34 Travel and subsistence 1,4)3 1.413 4471 8ank charges 279 279 267 Membership fees 5S2 552 Rent, insurance & utilities 24,520 24￿20 25762 Sundry expenses 407 2,743 Printing. postage 8 static>nery 1,179 1,179 57S Professional & legal 4.500 1.078 5578 7.558 Project expenses 241,814 241,814 29&716 4500 346,417 350,917 4SQ,867 DIRECT COSTS- PRIOR YEAR Totol 31.03.23 Gov•rnanc• Actlvlties Wages, salaries & Social security 112,$33 112,53J Depreciation 34 Travel and subsistenc• 4,4 4471 Bank charges 267 267 Membership fees 208 208 Flent, insurance & utilities 25,762 25,762 Sundry expense5 2,743 Z745 Printing, postage & Stationery 575 575 Professional & legal 4.500 3.058 7,558 Project expense5 296,716 296,716 446367 450,867 GOVERNANCE COSTS Unrestricted funds 31.12.23 Restricted funds 31.1123 Total fijnds .1223 Totul funds 31.03.23 Governan 4.500 4,500 31 • Muslim Charities Forum 5. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE-BY-EXPENDITURE TYPE Total 31.12. Total 31.0323 Charitable activities 3W41Y 444367 Expenditure on governance 4,500 4,500 350,917 450,867 6. NET INCOME/ (EXPENDITURE) This is Stated after charging.. 31 D￿ernber 20 31 March 2025 Oèpreclation of tangiblè fixèd assets- own*d by thè charity 17 34 During the year. no trustees received any remuneration (Year ended 31 March 2023 £NILI. During the year. no trustees received any benefits in kind Vear ended 31 March 2023- ENILI. Ouring the year, no trustees received any reimbursement of expenses (Year ended 31 March 2023- £NILI. 7. EXAMINER'S REMUNERATION The Independenr Examiner's remLJneration amounts to an Independent Examination fee of £4,500 including VAT (Year ended 31 March 2023., E4.5001. 8. STAFF COSTS Total 31.12. Totol 37.0323 Wages- Administraiive expenses 7S,158 772,533 Wages- Project expense5 134,107 179.227 209,265 297,760 The average number of persons employed by the charity during the period was 9 (Year endeLI 31 March 2023.. 111. No employees received remuneration of more than £60,(X)O in the period. Iyear ended 31 March 2023.. One employee received remuneration between £80,000 and £90.OCO in the yeail 2023 annual trustees, rèwrt • 32 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 9. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS offic• equlpment Computer equSpment Total Cost At l April 2023 and 31 March 2023 1,970 9,195 11,165 Oepr*¢S4t10n At l April 2023 1.949 9.145 11.094 Charge for the period 12 17 At 31 December 2023 1,954 9,157 Net book value Al 31 December 2023 16 At 31 Morch 2023 21 50 71 10. DEBTORS 31 December 2023 31 Morch 2023 Trade debtors 16.250 54.96S 11. CREDITORS 310ecember 31 March 2023 20 Trade creditors 4,222 68 Other taxation and social security 395 799 Accruals 9.OCKI 4,500 13.617 5367 33 • Muslim Charities Forum 12. STATEMENT OF FUNDS STATEMENT OF FUNDS- CURRENT YEAR Balance at l April 2023 Balance at 31 De¢¢rnber 2023 Income Expenditure Transfer Unrestrlcted funds General funds 727,086 235.107 1204,gISI 3.417 160,795 The Tudor Trust 1,050 40.000 141,6331 583 Restrlcted funds 8arrow CadburyTrust 17,982 22,$00 OS,9481 24.534 Global Majority Fund 4.000 14.0001 The Climate Action Project 70.097 8.000 115.9491 2,148 NCS 64.474 47.840 144.1701 68,144 UK Response Projecr 33.688 128,4021 5,286 Total of lund5 254377 357,447 1350.9171 260,907 Descrlptlon of Restrlcted Fundi Barrow Cadbury TrusL' is 8 restricted grant to map Muslim organisation5 in the UK, their contributions and challenges with view to 5trengrhen the sector a5 a whole. Global Majority Fund.. the funding is cTrfinanced by Comie Rèlièf National Emergencl•s trust in relation to 5peclTic tèrms stt out by the donor. The Cllmate Actlon Prol•ct.' is restricred funding which aims to increase the British MLJsllm-led charltable sector s Ljnderstanding. response and commitment to climare action. NC&' Is fLJndino In relarion to the provision of 9 month placement opportunities for young people aged 18.24 years. UK Response Project.. 15 resrricted grants in relation to strengthening the profile of Musl￿m-1ed charities to ensure the needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged communities are prioriti5ed. The grants are from Islamic Ftelief. Muslim Hands anol Al-Khair FoundatS0n, 2023 annual trustoÈs' report • 34 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS STATEMENT OF FUNDS- PRIOR YEAR Balance 8t Balance at 31 March 2023 2022 Income Expenditure Llnrestrlet•d funds General funds F59.434 179,621 lJi.9691 IZl.086 The Tudor Trust 10283 1312331 1,050 Aettrlcted funds VCSEP 1,564 05641 Barrow CaclburyTrust 10.835 19350 112,2031 17,982 Global Majority Fund 22.087 126.0871 The Climate Coalition 915 14,OC() 14,8181 10,097 NCS 7,516 216,767 1159,8091 64474 UK Fle5ponse Project 20.000 20,000 16,3121 35688 Total of lunds 229,506 475.738 1450,8671 254377 13. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS- CURRENT PERIOD Unrestrlcted funds 31.1123 Restrlcted tuttds 31.12.23 Total lunds 31.1223 Tangible fixed assets 54 Current assets 174,358 100.112 f14.470 Creclittsrs due within oneyear 113.6171 ns6171 160.795 100,112 260.907 ANALYSIS OF NEf ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS- PRIOR YEAR Unrestrlcted funds 31.0123 Restrlcted fvnds 31.03.23 Total fvnd5 31.03.23 Tangible fixed assets Current assets 133,432 126,241 259.673 Creditors clue within one yèar 15,3671 15J671 128,136 126,241 254J77 35 • Muslim Chariti* Forum 14 COMMITMENTS UNDER OPERATING LEASES At 31 December 2023 the Charity had future minimum lease payments due under non