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2025-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL TRUSTEES REPORT

AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2025

For the year ending 31[st ] December

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REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE
Principal office:
6 Whitehorse Mews,
37 Westminster Bridge Road,
London,
Dr Hany Abdul Gawad El-Banna OBE Dr Sofia Buncy MBE Hameed El Asaly Javeria Hashmi SE1 7QD
Chief Executive Officer: Fadi Itani OBE
Independent examiners:
Azets
Regis House,
45 King William Street,
London,
TRUSTEES EC4R 9AN
Banks:
Unity Trust Bank,
9 Brindley Place,
Birmingham,
Khalid Javid Moazzam Malik Mukhtar Karim Saffa Mir B1 2HB
Solicitors:
Bates Wells,
10 Queen Street Place,
London,
EC4R 1BE
Shahid Bashir
Shuaib Yusaf Toib Olomowewe Zia Salik
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Muslim Charities Forum would like to express their sincere appreciation to our Members, Partners and Supporters

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MEMBERS

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FUNDING PARTNERS

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SUPPORTING PARTNERS

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SPONSORS

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CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD

2025 has been a year of growth, resilience, and renewed purpose for the Muslim Charities Forum. We have continued to strengthen our role as a convenor and advocate for the Muslim charitable sector, supporting organisations, amplifying their voices, and delivering impactful programmes across our network.

Across the sector, there has been a steadfast commitment to community support and social justice. The escalation of international emergencies and conflicts placed extraordinary pressure on frontline organisations, many of whom were required to respond rapidly to crises in Gaza, Sudan and elsewhere. Our members also provided vital relief to communities in the UK affected by heatwaves, extreme weather, economic hardship, and periods of social unrest.

The operating environment has nevertheless been challenging. Rising demand, the effects of Islamophobia, and the spread of misinformation have shaped much of the sector’s experience this year. Our Debanking Report, launched in Parliament, highlighted the increasing pressures and systemic barriers facing many Muslim-led organisations. MCF is responding actively by strengthening our advocacy and offering practical support to help charities navigate these issues. This work marked a significant step in safeguarding the sector’s access, credibility, and operational stability.

Despite these challenges, MCF has remained focused on its mission. We hosted several major events, including the bi-annual Muslim Charities Convention, our Charity Advocacy Training, and our first Partners Exchange Gathering. Through these initiatives, we continued to build capacity, elevate sector expertise, and provide organisations with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Throughout 2025, the MCF Board continued to meet quarterly, providing strategic oversight, challenge, and accountability, ensuring MCF remains responsive to emerging issues while grounded in its values and long-term objectives.

We were delighted to welcome three new trustees, Sofia Buncy, Toib Olomowewe and Zia Salik, whose experience and commitment have already strengthened our Board and enriched our strategic direction. Their appointments reflect our continued dedication to robust, diverse, and effective governance.

As we look ahead, our focus remains clear. We are committed to building a more resilient, inclusive, and effective sector, guided by the values of justice, compassion, and service. Together, we will continue to advocate for those in need and work towards a future in which dignity and fairness are upheld for all.

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CEO’S MESSAGE

2025 has been a defining, and at times challenging, year for Muslim charities. Sustained financial pressures and a complex operating environment continued to test the sector’s resilience. In response, the Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) has focused on addressing the structural barriers that prevent charities from operating effectively and sustainably.

Throughout the year, we delivered strategic workshops, research, and publications to support Muslim-led charities. Highlights include our Debanking report, launched in the House of Lords, the Give Smart, Give Safe campaign, and continued work to uphold ethical excellence in Zakat collection and distribution. Each initiative was designed to confront systemic challenges affecting both charities and the communities they serve.

We strengthened our network through collaboration with stakeholders across civil society, including the Charity Commission for England and Wales, Members of Parliament, and sector leaders. These relationships are central to MCF’s role as a connector, advocate, and trusted intermediary.

Our bi-annual Muslim Charities Convention brought together over 330 innovators and changemakers, 70% of whom represented grassroots initiatives, alongside 38 distinguished speakers, providing a platform for dialogue, learning, and collaboration. Similarly, our Grassroots Charity Advocacy event at the London Assembly, attended by thirty organisations, brought together sector leaders and speakers from Amnesty International, Bates Wells, and Friends of the Earth. The event created

an important space for dialogue, collaboration and collective action, underscoring the value of cross sector partnerships in addressing shared challenges and advancing systemic change.

We also prioritised practical resources for the sector. Our annual magazine, Issue 7 of The Forum, ‘ Restoring Hope- British Muslims Serving the Nation and Transforming Lives ’, showcased contributions from 33 grassroots organisations from across the country, offering insight and guidance for navigating a rapidly changing landscape.

Finally, we invested in our own capacity, welcoming new colleagues to strengthen our ability to deliver impact. I would like to close by extending my heartfelt thanks to our team and board, funders, partners, and

allies who have stood with us throughout the year. Your trust, collaboration, and investment have been instrumental in enabling MCF to respond to emerging challenges, advocate for systemic change, and support charities at the frontline of service delivery. At a time when infrastructure support is more vital than ever, your partnership allows us not only to sustain impact, but to build the foundations for a stronger, fairer, and more resilient civil society.

We look forward to continuing this journey together in 2026.

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WHO WE ARE OUR STORY: AIM: VISION: Muslim Charities Forum was established to strengthen Muslim social action by helping Our aim is to support, connect and represent the charities become more effective and realise their full potential. Founded in 2007, sector, enabling organisations to build capacity, MCF connects, represents and supports Muslim civil society organisations, enabling share best practice and drive meaningful collaboration, knowledge sharing and engagement across the wider charity sector. impact through resources, training, networks

Our aim is to support, connect and represent the sector, enabling organisations to build capacity, share best practice and drive meaningful impact through resources, training, networks and advocacy.

Our vision is to strengthen the British Muslim charitable sector, so it maximises its impact in creating a more just and sustainable world.

Nearly two decades on, we continue to serve as the UK’s network of Muslim led charities and civil society organisations, working together to support communities in need and address social and economic injustice.

Through our network, we work to build a more accountable, transparent and effective Muslim charitable sector, enhancing our collective ability, as individual organisations and as a community, to contribute to a more just and sustainable world.

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OUR VALUES WE ARE DRIVEN BY 5 KEY VALUES WHICH UNDERPIN ALL ASPECTS OF OUR WORK HUMANITY ACCOUNTABILITY TRANSPARENCY EFFECTIVENESS EXCELLENCE

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.

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.

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.

Our shared faith encourages us to be productive and to avoid wastefulness. Therefore, we are committed to conducting efficient allocation of resources and to monitor our performance.

Our shared faith encourages us to strive for excellence in all that we do. Therefore, we are committed to operate in a legal, ethical, and professional way, doing things with sincere intentions and in the best, most correct, and most complete manner.

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WHAT WE DO

SUPPORT, CONNECT, REPRESENT

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the leading UK network for British Muslim led charities and community organisations. Guided by our core pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we strengthen the collective capacity, voice and impact of Muslim led organisations across the voluntary and community sector.

We champion excellence, transparency and social justice by providing practical support, capacity building and networking opportunities, alongside driving research, advocacy and sector leadership.

Building on our founding purpose of strengthening Muslim social action, MCF works to advance systemic change within the charitable sector and wider society. We challenge the structural barriers and inequalities that limit Muslim led organisations, ensuring they are not only empowered but recognised as essential contributors to a fairer, more inclusive society.

OUR WORK FOCUSES ON

• TACKLING BARRIERS: Tackling structural, intersectional and funding barriers

• INFLUENCING: Influencing policymakers, funders and the wider third sector ecosystem

• STRENGTHENING: Strengthening the capacity and sustainability of Muslim led charities

We also work in partnership with regulators, civil society bodies, academics and funders to advance representation, equity and collaboration across the sector.

Our goal is to build a more accountable, effective and sustainable Muslim led charitable sector, one that strengthens civil society and addresses the root causes of inequality through collective action and influence.

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OUR BOARD WE ARE GRATEFUL TO OUR EXPERIENCED BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THEIR SUPPORT. TOIB OLOMOWEWE – INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE

“To be a trustee of MCF is to help steward an organisation that plays a vital role in supporting, championing and connecting Muslim-led charities, and in enabling them to thrive. What makes that role so meaningful is the opportunity to support a sector that is doing extraordinary work, while helping to strengthen its collective voice, credibility and impact for the communities it serves.”

DR SOFIA BUNCY MBE DL - INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE

“As a recently appointed Trustee at MCF, it is an honour to join the MCF family in championing and strengthening the work of Muslim charities and their substantial impact both in the UK and across the globe. I recognise this role as both an honour and a serious responsibility to uphold strong governance, ethical stewardship, and the strategic and ethical advancement of the Muslim charity sector.”

ZIA SALIK

This year we were also honoured to be joined by three new Trustees. They bring diverse experiences in governance, leadership, and strategic decision-making, along with meaningful connections to Muslim led organisations and the charity sector. Their knowledge and perspectives will be invaluable as we strive to enhance good governance and achieve lasting impact together.

“As a trustee of the Muslim Charities Forum, it has been a privilege to be a part of a values-led team committed to collaboration and positive change across the Muslim Charity Sector. Serving as a trustee has provided an opportunity to both contribute experience and learn from a diverse network of organisations. I look forward to supporting MCF’s growth and strengthening collaboration to help deliver lasting collective impact across the sector.”

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BEHIND THE SCENES – TEAM MCF SACDIYO ABDULLAHI- FUTURE LEADER “I joined MCF because I wanted to learn more about the Muslim charity sector and how organisations like MCF support them to function efficiently. When I joined the programme, I was most excited about getting involved with policy work within MCF. It was intriguing to see the different interventions that MCF runs to support the Muslim Charity sector; from running workshops to equip them with their necessary told to creating spaces within the Muslim charity sector such as the Muslim charity conferences to allow for collaboration and knowledge sharing between charities within the sector. “

ZULAIKHA JALLOW – FUTURE LEADER

“Working with MCF as a Future leader has been one of the most amazing and insightful experiences of the year for me. It gave me the opportunity to develop new skills I didn’t previously have, and skills I didn’t realise I needed. One of the greatest benefits of the programme was being able to get a taste of the different departments within MCF, to get a deeper understanding of how the organisation operates”.

KAZIM UKKA - POLICY AND ADVOCACY LEAD

“Joining MCF as Policy and Advocacy Lead has enabled me to build upon my work so far in supporting the sector. Previously, I’ve worked in the research and policy departments at MEND and Community Policy Forum, focusing on Islamophobia and broader issues affecting British Muslim communities. I’ve also volunteered with several Muslim charities, including serving as Chair and Trustee. At MCF, I hope to bring together my professional experience and personal passion to support and empower Muslim charities.”

HASHIM UMAR ALI - OPERATIONS AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION LEAD

“Joining MCF as the Digital Transformation and Operations Lead has enabled me to build upon my commitment to capacity-building and innovation. Previously, I’ve worked in legal casework focusing on human rights and served as an international leadership fellow. I’ve also conducted research for a UN body, published in various journals on the Middle East, and ran my own graphic and UX design consultancy. At MCF, I hope to bring together my diverse professional experience and personal passion to deliver lasting change and impact for the broader Muslim charity sector, driven by the principle of Khidmah.”

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A DEFINING YEAR OF LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY

GOVERNANCE, TRUST, AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION

SECTOR LEADERSHIP AND CONVENING

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND SECTOR RESILIENCE

• MCF strengthened its role as a national platform for Muslim-led charities through two major convenings. The Partners Annual Exchange (AGM) in April brought together stakeholders for reflection, learning, and strategic dialogue. This was followed by the second Muslim Charities Convention in London, which gathered over 330 charities and professionals from across the UK, reinforcing cross-sector learning and collaboration through workshops, keynote sessions, and shared practice.

• Climate action also remained a priority, with expanded work through Climate Connect Communities, participation in the Climate Justice Coalition, and mobilisation during Great Big Green Week, strengthening the sector’s engagement with environmental justice.

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THE LANDSCAPE OF DEBANKING AND ITS IMPACT ON CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

For several years, Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) has documented growing challenges faced by Muslim-led charities in accessing banking services, including sudden account closures without explanation. This issue has intensified, disrupting essential charitable activities, yet remains underreported in mainstream discourse.

In response, MCF undertook extensive research in late 2024 and early 2025 to assess the scale and impact of debanking across the sector. In January 2025, we launched our report, The Landscape of Debanking within Muslim Charities and Its Impact on Charitable Activities, at the UK Parliament, bringing together policymakers, financial institutions, and sector stakeholders. At the time of writing, the report has been downloaded 487 times , making it one of MCF’s highest-performing publications.

The research demonstrates how restricted access to banking services is affecting day-to-day operations, with serious implications for the delivery of time-critical humanitarian aid. By evidencing this systemic issue, the report strengthens the case for fairer and more equitable financial access for Muslim-led charities. The project was developed with the contribution and academic oversight of Dr Samantha May.

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KEY FINDINGS

MORE THAN HALF OF THE ORGANISATIONS SURVEYED (19) EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTIES WHEN SETTING UP BANK ACCOUNTS JUST UNDER HALF OF ORGANISATIONS ASKED HAD EXPERIENCED UNANNOUNCED OR SUDDEN ACCOUNT CLOSURES.

52% EXPERIENCED DELAYS WHEN OPENING AN ACCOUNT, WITH MANY OF THEM ALSO EXPERIENCING EXTRA PAPERWORK OR SCRUTINY DURING THE PROCESS.

AFTER MANAGING TO OPEN THE ACCOUNTS, 42% OF THE ORGANISATIONS EXPERIENCED DELAYS IN TRANSFERRING FUNDS.

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MCF continued its advocacy for fair and equitable access to financial services throughout 2025, building on the findings of its debanking research. The team engaged directly with major banking institutions, including NatWest, Lloyds Bank, Crown Agents Bank, Barclays, and CAF Bank, to present evidence, discuss sector concerns, and explore practical steps towards fairer banking practices.

MCF also shared its research and recommendations with key sector bodies, including UK Finance and the Financial Ombudsman Service, helping to raise awareness of the systemic challenges faced by Muslim-led charities.

Through continued engagement with financial institutions, regulators, and sector partners, MCF is working to improve transparency, strengthen processes, and advocate for more consistent and equitable treatment of charities within the banking system.

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PARTNERS ANNUAL EXCHANGE

One of the key highlights of the year was MCF’s Partners Annual Exchange, held in April in London. Kindly hosted by Bates Wells and ably facilitated by Lamees Hafeez, the event brought together 35 colleagues from across the sector, including member organisations, partner agencies, and leaders from the wider UK charity landscape, creating a focused space for reflection and strategic dialogue. Participants acknowledged shared challenges and reaffirmed a collective vision for faith-based leadership. The Exchange also strengthened relationships and enabled more focused discussion on the changes needed to advance the sector.

The programme featured contributions from leading voices, including Dr Halima Begum, Paul Streets, and Augustus Della-Porta, alongside representatives from member organisations.

Opening the event, Dr Halima Begum underscored the importance of collective responsibility and collaboration, reminding participants that “we are all members of one body,” and emphasising the value of knowledge-sharing and stronger domestic partnerships. Paul Streets CBE reflected on the vital role of grassroots Muslimled charities in the UK, highlighting the importance of using resources strategically to achieve deeper, more sustainable impact.

The closing address from MCF CEO Fadi Itani reinforced this message, calling for continued collaboration and strategic alignment to address injustice and drive positive change.

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CHARITY ADVOCACY 101

INFLUENCING CHANGE

MCF convened a full-day advocacy workshop for grassroots Muslim-led charities at City Hall, in partnership with London Assembly Member Hina Bokhari, to equip participants to influence change at both local and national levels.

Led by MCF’s Policy and Advocacy team, the programme delivered practical, skills-based training on advocacy, enabling participants to engage confidently with political spaces, institutions, and decision-makers. The workshop brought together 34 delegates from 22 organisations , with a focus on amplifying voices from communities that are often underrepresented.

Grounded in the principle that meaningful change often begins locally, the workshop supported participants to build influence within their communities and translate this into wider policy engagement. Many attendees, working directly with marginalised communities, developed the confidence and skills to turn lived experience into effective advocacy for long-term change.

Sessions were supported by expert facilitators from organisations including Amnesty International, Bates Wells, Media Monitoring Centre and Friends of the Earth, covering key areas such as lobbying, charity law, coalition-building, and media engagement.

Each session was designed to build confidence in navigating policy and regulatory frameworks, particularly where these may feel complex or restrictive.

Feedback from participants highlighted increased confidence and practical knowledge, enabling them to more effectively represent their communities and influence change both locally and nationally.

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ENSURING EXCELLENCE IN ZAKAT

MCF hosted Ensuring Excellence in Zakat , an online event marking the launch of its new Zakat Policies for Charities. Designed for charitable organisations, the session was delivered in partnership with Mufti Faraz of Amanah Advisors, a leading expert in Islamic finance.

The event highlighted the importance of excellence in Zakat governance as a core element of Islamic charitable practice and introduced MCF’s new policy framework to support improved consistency and accountability in Zakat collection and distribution.

Focused on strengthening ethical practice, transparency, and good governance across member organisations, the session and accompanying policy template provide practical guidance for embedding best practice in Zakat fulfilment.

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During Ramadan 2025, MCF continued its Give Smart, Give Safe campaign , promoting donor awareness, vigilance, and safe, effective charitable giving. Targeted at the wider Muslim public, the campaign aimed to strengthen understanding of responsible giving during a key period when charitable donations across the sector increase significantly.

MCF promoted its updated Muslim Donor’s Guide and worked in partnership with the Charity Commission for England and Wales and the Fundraising Regulator to reinforce messages on safer giving.

The campaign was delivered through a coordinated communications approach, including social media activity, press engagement, and blog content. As part of this work, MCF CEO Fadi Itani joined the Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, David Holdsworth, on Islam Channel’s Big Ramadan Show to further promote responsible and informed giving.

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THE MUSLIM CHARITIES CONVENTION Our standout achievement of 2025 was the second Muslim Charities Convention, The Blessings The Convention brought together 38 distinguished speakers and contributors from across charity of the Collective, held in London in July 2025 at the West London Conference Centre. Building on governance, finance, law, policy, academia, and strategic communications. Speakers included the success of the inaugural Convention in 2023 and responding to strong demand for a regular David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission for England and Wales, Dr Jamil sector-wide gathering, MCF once again convened leaders, practitioners, and stakeholders from Sherif, founding Chair of the Muslim Council of Britain’s Research and Documentation Committee, across the Muslim charitable sector and wider civil society. Hassan Damluji, Saffa Mir, Dr Shabna Begum, Abeer Abu Ghaith, Lamees Hafeez, and Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad.

The Convention sold out once again, welcoming over 330 attendees from across the UK, with approximately 70% representing grassroots initiatives and community organisations. Through MCF’s sponsored delegates scheme, more than 100 grassroots participants were able to attend, ensuring inclusive participation and amplifying voices from the frontlines of community work.

The event delivered a dynamic and information-rich programme comprising 12 thematic sessions , TEDx-style talks, interactive panels, workshops, and structured networking opportunities. Sessions explored key sector themes including Leading with Impact and Challenging Biases and Building Unity, creating space for practitioners and experts to share insight, challenge assumptions, and strengthen collective practice. External exhibitors from a diverse range of sectors further enriched the discussions and promoted cross-sector knowledge sharing.

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A key highlight of the Convention was the Women Leading Change session, which featured an interactive discussion and Q&A on women’s leadership and representation in the sector. The session also marked the launch of the MCF Women’s Network, a new initiative designed to support women working in Muslim-led charities to progress into leadership roles.

Throughout the day, discussions reflected on governance, ethics, leadership, and the role of faith in charitable work. Insights from sector leaders highlighted the distinctive strengths of faithbased organisations, including public trust, grassroots legitimacy, and advocacy capacity, while reinforcing the importance of unity, innovation, and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing communities today.

“Good governance matters more than ever... charitable giving linked with faith is at the heart of charitable society.” – David Holdsworth, Chief Executive, Charity Commission

“Difficult things in all organisations subside if people are all facing the same Qibla [direction], with the same purpose, with one heart” – Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad, Dean, Cambridge Muslim College

“We need to make sure that we don’t use the culture of fear that has been generated against us to stay silent on the issues that matter to our communities” – Shabna Begum, CEO, The Runnymede Trust

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MCF WOMEN’S NETWORK

Following the publication of Issue 6 of The Forum — The Blessings of the Sisters — in late 2024, MCF responded to growing calls for greater support, representation, and professional development opportunities for women working across Muslim-led charities and civil society organisations.

This work was informed by findings from MCF’s 2023 Bridges of Hope report, which identified that 42% of grassroot Muslim-led charities are female-led, highlighting the significant contribution of women across the sector while also underscoring the need for stronger pathways into leadership and decision-making roles.

MCF formally launched the Women’s Network at the Muslim Charities Convention 2025. Established as a professional support and leadership initiative, the Network aims to provide mentorship, peer support, training, and resources to help women progress into leadership positions across the Muslim charitable sector.

The initiative also seeks to strengthen organisational culture and inclusion by addressing barriers that women continue to face within both the Muslim charity sector and wider civil society. Feedback gathered through MCF’s engagement identified recurring challenges including unequal access to professional development, limited mentoring opportunities, lack of flexible and supportive working environments, gender pay disparities, and experiences of both overt and systemic discrimination.

The Women’s Network was developed to address these challenges strategically and practically through research, mentoring, peer learning, and capacity building. Its long-term aim is to support a more inclusive, representative, and resilient sector that better reflects the lived experiences of the communities it serves.

For participants, the Network provides a safe and supportive space to build skills, confidence, and professional networks, while creating clearer pathways into middle and senior leadership roles. In 2026, MCF plans to launch the Women’s Network mentoring programme to further support leadership development across the sector. A research report is also currently in development to explore early findings, highlight successes and challenges, and provide recommendations for the sector.

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CLIMATE ACTION

Climate action remains a core priority for MCF and the Muslim-led charity sector. We recognise that climate change disproportionately affects communities in the Global South and those experiencing poverty in the UK. In response, we are supporting organisations to embed environmental responsibility across their work and to engage with climate action in practical, meaningful ways.

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR CLIMATE JUSTICE

These activities increased the visibility of Muslim-led organisations and their contribution to the national conversation on climate change.

In 2025, MCF joined the Climate Justice Coalition, strengthening collaboration with grassroots, faith-based, and social justice organisations working towards a fairer response to the climate crisis.

STRENGTHENING CLIMATE RESILIENCE

Through this partnership and our participation in interfaith initiatives such as Make Them Pay with Faith for Climate, we continued to champion collective, values-led action on environmental inequality.

ENGAGING COMMUNITIES: GREAT BIG GREEN WEEK

MCF partnered with The Climate Coalition and Great Big Green Week to deliver the Together for Good campaign, encouraging Muslim-led organisations to take part in national climate action. The campaign highlighted the growing role of Muslim-led charities in climate leadership:

Through the Climate Connect Communities Programme, delivered with London Resilience and Groundwork UK, MCF supported grassroots organisations to better understand and respond to climate risks. Workshops on flooding, heatwaves, and emergency planning equipped participants with practical tools to strengthen community resilience.

MOVING FORWARD

MCF’s climate work in 2025 strengthened partnerships, raised the profile of Muslim-led environmental leadership, and supported organisations to engage more confidently with climate action. We will continue to build on this momentum, ensuring the sector is equipped to contribute to a more just, sustainable, and resilient future.

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PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

In 2025, MCF continued to strengthen the voice and visibility of Muslim-led charities within national policy and civic spaces. Through sustained engagement with parliamentarians, government departments, and political parties, we increased the sector’s presence in key discussions, strengthened cross-party relationships, and ensured that the priorities of Muslim-led civil society were reflected in policy debates and decision-making. This included continued engagement with Departmental Civil Society Leads at DCSMs and participation in the Civil Society Advisory Group, helping to maintain good links between the sector and government.

PARTY CONFERENCE ENGAGEMENT

MCF participated in the Labour, Liberal Democrats, and Green Party conferences, engaging with MPs, peers, party officials, and civil society organisations. These engagements provided a valuable platform to represent sector priorities, build relationships, and contribute to a more inclusive policy environment.

PARLIAMENTARY AND POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT

Throughout the year, MCF held targeted meetings with over twenty Members of Parliament and Peers from across the political spectrum and maintained regular engagement with relevant All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs), including Faith & Society and British Muslims. These engagements helped ensure that the experiences and perspectives of Muslim-led organisations informed national policy conversations.

REPRESENTATION ACROSS CIVIL SOCIETY

The launch of the Civil Society Covenant consultation in 2025 provided MCF with an important opportunity to contribute our perspective, captured in Civil Society Covenant: Our Response – Muslim Charities Forum. Following this, our CEO, Fadi Itani, was invited to join the Covenant’s steering group. This engagement has strengthened MCF’s connections with mainstream policymakers and decision-makers, ensuring the sector has a meaningful voice at the relevant tables.

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RESPONDING TO AN UNSTABLE SOCIAL LANDSCAPE DEALING WITH ANTI-MUSLIM HATRED Against a backdrop of rising Islamophobia and far-right rhetoric, MCF provided timely policy engagement, analysis, and advocacy to support the sector. Key publications included:

Alongside oral and written evidence submitted to the Government’s Islamophobia / Anti-Muslim Hatred Definition Working Group, this work provided practical analysis and recommendations to help respond to hate crime, misinformation, and community tensions, while strengthening confidence to engage with public policy processes.

In particular, the Defining Anti-Muslim Hatred and Islamophobia briefing encouraged members to contribute to the Government’s call for evidence, helping to ensure Muslim voices were represented in shaping national definitions and responses.

Alongside this, MCF continued to produce policy briefings and commentary on issues affecting Muslim civil society and the wider sector, contributing to informed and inclusive public discourse.

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THE FORUM ISSUE 7: RESTORING HOPE RESTORING HOPE- BRITISH MUSLIMS SERVING THE NATION AND TRANSFORMING LIVES The seventh issue of MCF’s sector journal, The Forum, titled “Restoring Hope – British Muslims Serving the Nation and Transforming Lives”, was launched at the House of Commons, hosted by the APPG on Faith in Society, and supported by Zoe Franklin MP, and Sarah Owen MP. This flagship publication showcased the scale, diversity, and impact of grassroots Muslim-led organisations across the UK, featuring 33 contributions highlighting frontline service delivery and community impact.

A targeted distribution of 400 printed copies to Ministers, MPs, and senior civil society leaders helped raise the visibility of Muslim-led organisations within decision-making spaces. The publication highlighted the breadth and depth of local initiatives, challenged persistent misconceptions, and drew attention to structural barriers limiting sector growth.

Engagement extended beyond print, with high website download rates and meaningful dialogue with policymakers and strategic partners, strengthening MCF’s advocacy impact and elevating the profile of community organisations.

The launch brought together 65 guests, including parliamentarians , charity leaders, community figures, and partners from across the UK to celebrate the successes of grassroots delivery, particularly to marginalised communities. Countering Islamophobic narratives often seen in mainstream media, the magazine highlighted critical areas such as mental health services, refugee and migrant support, and food poverty, showcasing the vital contribution of Muslim civil society in serving all communities.

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RESTORING HOPE “ WHEN WE LISTEN, LEARN ... WE CREATE REAL CHANGE.

“ TODAY IS NOT ABOUT MCF… BRITISH MUSLIMS’ EFFORTS HAVE BEEN UNDERSCORED.

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– Sammey Ahmad, Deaf World
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IT SHOULDN’T BE LEFT UP TO BRITISH MUSLIMS TO CHAMPION THE BRILLIANT WORK…IT ISN’T UP TO THEM TO TELL YOU WHAT THEY DO….

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– Fadi Itani
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– Sarah Owen MP

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In 2025, MCF continued to strengthen governance and organisational resilience across the Muslim-led charity sector through the Step-Up Resource Series, a growing suite of practical, free-to-use policy templates and guidance.

Designed to be accessible and adaptable, these resources support organisations of all sizes to implement best practice in line with current regulatory requirements, while responding to the specific contexts and challenges faced by Muslim-led charities.

During the year, we expanded the series to a total of 19 resources , including new templates such as a Code of Conduct and Lone Working Policy, addressing emerging priorities around accountability, safeguarding, and staff wellbeing.

The Step-Up series provides a good foundation of governance and operational tools, covering key areas such as safeguarding, financial controls, data protection, and equality and diversity. By providing practical, high-quality resources, the series is helping organisations strengthen compliance, improve operational effectiveness, and build long-term sustainability, while supporting greater consistency and confidence across the sector.

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DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT AND THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

In 2025, the Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) continued to strengthen its digital presence as a trusted platform for sector insight, guidance, and advocacy. From January to December, the MCF website attracted over 48,000 unique visitors, reflecting growing engagement with our work and the issues affecting Muslim-led charities.

Central to this has been our commitment to providing timely, accessible content that supports charities and grassroots organisations to navigate an evolving policy and operational landscape. Through blogs, commentary, and official statements, MCF has amplified sector voices, shared critical updates, and contributed to national conversations on policy, governance, and community impact.

INFORMING AND INFLUENCING THE SECTOR

Throughout the year, MCF published 28 blogs and statements , responding to emerging challenges and strategic priorities, including:

This content also responded to key developments and regulatory updates impacting the sector, ensuring that organisations remained informed and equipped to engage.

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MEDIA ENGAGEMENT AND PUBLIC VOICE

Amplifying the voice and visibility of Muslim-led charities in public discourse remains central to MCF’s work. In 2025, we strengthened our presence across mainstream and sector media, using these platforms to raise awareness of key issues, influence public debate, and ensure sector perspectives were reflected in national conversations on policy, regulation, and social cohesion.

RAISING NATIONAL AWARENESS

A key focus of our media engagement was the issue of debanking. The CEO’s commentary, “Should UK charities have the right to a bank account?”, helped to elevate the issue within national debate, reinforcing MCF’s advocacy for fair access to financial services.

This was further amplified through international coverage, including a feature by Devex, which highlighted findings from MCF’s debanking research and extended the reach of our work beyond the UK.

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STRENGTHENING SECTOR VOICE

STRENGTHENING SECTOR VOICE

Throughout the year, MCF’s media engagement elevated the voices and contributions of Muslim-led charities across a range of influential platforms, including Religion Media Centre, Third Sector, and Civil Society.

Through these contributions, we promoted key messages on safe and effective charitable giving, the role of faith in driving social impact, and the importance of representation within civil society. Our media contributions also highlighted how Muslim-led organisations are meeting community needs and responding to challenges such as inequality, exclusion, and social cohesion.

Together, this engagement strengthened MCF’s position as a trusted and influential voice, helping to shape public narratives and ensure that the perspectives of Muslim-led charities are reflected within wider sector and policy debates.

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ANNUAL TRUSTEES’ REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM

MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM

TABLE OF CONTENT

REFERENCES AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025

Page

Trustees

References and Administrative Details of the Charity................. 37 Annual Trustees’ Report................................................................. 38 Independent Examiner’s Report.................................................... 39 Financial Report.............................................................................. 40

Chair: Moazzam Malik CMG

Hameed El Asaly: term ended September 2025 Shahid Bashir

Dr Sofia Buncy MBE: appointed June 2025 Dr Hany Abdul Gawad El-Banna OBE Lamees Hafeez: appointed February 2026 Javeria Hashmi

Tufail Hussain: term ended September 2025 Khalid Javid: term ended January 2026

Mukhtar Karim

Saffa Mir

Toib Olomowewe: appointed June 2025 Madiha Raza: term ended January 2025 Ziaur Rahman Salik: appointed September 2025 Shuaib Yusaf

Principal office

6 Whitehorse Mews 37 Westminster Bridge Road London, SE1 7QD

Solicitors

Bates Wells 10 Queen Street Place London, EC4R 1BE

Banks

Unity Trust Bank 9 Brindley Place Birmingham, B1 2HB

Independent examiners

Azets

Regis House 45 King William Street London, EC4R 9AN

Chief executive officer

Fadi Itani OBE

Charity registered number

1166149

7537

MUSUM CHARITIES FORUM MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM TRUSTEES. REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENOED 31 DECEMBER 2025 TRUSTEES. REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Financial Review Muslim Charities Forum received donations, grants and other income worth £676.938 compared to £518,177 in year ended 31 December 2024. The statement of Financial Activities Portrays that Muslim Charities Forum spent £527.637 on charitable activities. Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities 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). At 31 December 2025 we carried forward a positive bank balance of £499.081. 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 year. In preparing these financial statements. the trustees are required to: Reserves Pollcy It is the policy of MCF that unrestritted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level which will ensure that, in the event of a significant drop in funding, they will be able to continue the 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 to cover administrative expenditure for a period of six months. estimated at £250.000. The current level of unrestricted general funds. as at 310ecember 2025, is £363.855. which more than meets this target. 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 accountin8 Standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; Prepare the financial statement5 on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. Risk management The trustees continue to assess the major risks to which MCF is exposed to and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate the exposure to major risks. Beside the reliance on Members, fees, the charity has made good progress in diversifying its funding model and it is now attracting support from some Trusts and Foundations. The trustees have discussed this and recommended more focus on this area and in addition attracting more members. as well as exploring support from philanthropists with a keen interest in developing the Muslim charity sector. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. and the 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. Exclusively Charitable Activities The members come from a wide spectrum of social and charitable backgrounds. The organisations and NGOS who benefit from the implementation of the aims of MCF are diverse. All their attivities are regarded as "exclusively charitable" a5 defined by English law. The Board of trustees assists charities and organisations whose aims and activities are all entirely "exclusively charitable". The Board of trustees are fully aware of this requirement. Moazzam Malik CMG Chairman Public Benefit Shuaib Yusaf Treasurer As a charity. Muslim Charities Forum must be able to demonstrate that its objects and activities are for the public benefit as required by the Charities Act 2011. The trustees have all reviewed the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit 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 benefit guidance published by the Charity Commission in determining the attivities undertaken by the charity. This Report explains our main activities and achievements in carrying out our aim. Date: 1310712026 38

MUSLIM CHARrriES FORUM INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 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 year ended 31 December 2025. STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACtIVlTIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 Unrestrirted Restrirted funds funds 2025 2025 Total funds 2025 Total funds 2024 Responslbllltles and basis of report Note As the charitvs trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Art 20111.the Art'l. INCOME FROM.. Donations and legacies I report in respect of my examination of the charitys accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 14515llbl of the Act. 357,783 319,155 676,938 518,177 TOTAL INCOME 3S7,783 319,155 676,938 518,177 EXPENDITURE ON: Independent examiner's statement The charivs gross income exceeded £250,000 and l am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. Charitable activities 230,690 296,947 527,637 435,767 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 230.690 296,947 527,637 43S,767 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: INCOME 127,093 22,208 149,301 82,410 Transfer betsveen funds 19.6151 9.615 the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 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 viev/ which is not a matter considered a5 part of an independent examination. NEf MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 117,478 31,823 149,301 82,410 RECONCIUATION OF FUNDS: Total funds brought fonvard 327,318 15,999 343,317 260,907 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 444,796 47,822 492,618 343,317 I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connertion 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. The notes on pages 40 to 45 form part of these financial statements. John Howard. FCA Azets 2nd Floor, Regis House. 45 King William Street, London. EC4R 9AN Date: 1410712026 39

MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 31 December 2025 31 December2024 AccouKnNG POUCIES Note 1.1 Basis of preparation of financial staternents FIXED ASSETS The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Statement of Recommended Prartice I"Charities SORP IFRS 1021"), Financial Reporting Standard 102 and the Charities Act 2011 las amended by the provisions of the Charities Act 20221. Tangible assets 3,579 36 CURRENT ASSETS The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at COSt or transaction value unless Otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these accounts. Debtors io 250 2.050 Cash at bank and in hand 499 081 349 152 Muslim Charities Forum constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. 499,331 351.202 1.2 Income CREDITORS- amounts falling due within one year li 10 292) 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. NET CURRENT ASSETS 343 281 For legacies, entitlement is taken as the earlier of the date on which either: the charity Is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executorlsl to the Trust that a distribution will be made, or when a distribution is received from the estate. Receipt of a legacy, in whole or irb part, is only considered probable when the amount can be rneasured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executor's intention to make a distribution. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the tharity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition have not been met. then the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disc105ed if material. NET ASSETS 492 618 343.317 CHARITY FUNDS Restricted funds 12 47.822 15.999 Unrestricted funds 12 327.318 TOTAL FUNOS 492.618 343.317 Donated services or facilities are recognised when the charity has control over the item. anv conditions associated with the donated item have been met, the receipt of economic benefit from the use of the charity of the item is probable and that economic benefit can be measured reliably. In accordance with the Charities SORP IFRS 1021, the general volunteer time of the Friends is not recognised and refer to the Trustees. Report for more information about their contribution. The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 1310712026 and signed on their behalf. by= On receipt. donated professional 5ervice5 and donated facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity which is the amount the charity would have been willing to pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market,. a corresponding amount is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt. Moazzam Malik CMG Trustee Other income is recognised in the period in which it is receNable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on completion of the service. The notes on pages 40 to 45 form part of these financial statements. 40

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MUSUM CHARITIES FORUM MUSLIM CHARITIES FORUM NOTES TO ThE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 ANALYSIS OF EXPEMDITURE-BY-EXPENDrruRE TYPE TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Office equipment Computer equipment Total 2025 Totol 2024 Total Cost At ljanuary 2025 Additions Charitable Actiwties Expenditure on governance 522.993 431,147 4.620 1,970 9,195 11,165 At 31 December 2025 527.617 435 767 Depreciation At l January 2025 Charge for the year 1,959 9.170 11,129 14ET INCOMVIEXPENDITURE) This is stated after char8ir>8: At 31 December 2025 2025 2024 Net book value At 31 December 2025 3,572 3,579 Depreciation of tan8ible fixed assets - owned by the charty 18 At 31 December 2024 li 25 36 During the year, no trustees received any remunefation12024- £NILI. During the year, no trustees received any benefits in knnd12024 - £NIII. During the year, no trustees received any reimbursement of expenses {2024- £NILI. 10. DEBTORS 2025 2024 EXAMINER'S REMUNERATION Trade debtors 250 The Independent Examiner's remun￿atIOn amounts to an Independent Examinatx)n fee of £4.632 indudin8 VAT12024: £4,620). STAFF COSTS 11. CREDITORS Total 2025 Totol 2024 2025 2024 Wages Admlnistrative expenses Wages- Project expense5 I￿.826 138.356 80.287 164.288 Trade creditors Other taxation and social security Accruals 4,858 802 4,632 2.624 677 4,620 The average number of pers(Ms employed by the charity during the year was 612024- 61. One employee received remuneration of more than £60,(m In the year.12024- one). 43

44 4489

6 Whitehorse Mews,

37 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7QD.

United Kingdom.

45

www.muslimcharitiesforum.org.uk

CHARITY NUMBER: 1166149