OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator. This document is also available as Markdown.

← Caritas Diocese Of Shrewsbury

2025-03-31-accounts

Charity registration number 1169317 (England and Wales)

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees Rt Rev Mark Davies (Chair)
Mrs Carol Lawrence
Mrs Christine Smith
Rev John Fegan
Charity number 1169317
Principal address Caritas Diocese of Shrewsbury
Wheatland Lane
Wallasey
Wirral
Merseyside
CH44 7ED
Independent examiner Simon Evans FCA
Lewis Evans Partnership LLP
The Oaks
3 Village Road
West Kirby
Wirral
CH48 3JN
Bankers Lloyds Bank plc
PO Box 1000
Andover
BX1 1LT

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 4
Independent examiner's report 5
Statement of financial activities 6
Statement of financial position 7
Statement of cash flows 8
Notes to the financial statements 9 - 26

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

TRUSTEES' REPORT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity's constitution, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)".

Objectives and activities

Objectives:

The charity’s objects are to further the general charitable works of the Roman Catholic Church in accordance with its teaching both in the Diocese of Shrewsbury and elsewhere in the United Kingdom in particular, but not exclusively, by providing services and facilities for the relief of poverty and suffering, the advancement of education, the promotion of social justice including the advancement of human rights and the promotion of religious or racial harmony and other charitable acts which promote the development of individuals and communities for the public benefit, for the benefit of people of all faiths and none.

Aims and Activities:

The charity’s activities are directed to children and young people without the support of families and in need, children, and young people at risk. In addition to children and young people, the charity also aids people with disabilities, the aged, the vulnerable and individuals, families, communities and groups who are in need.

Currently the charity has bases in Wirral, Shrewsbury, Crewe and Wythenshawe where it carries out these

activities.

The trustees have paid due regard to guidance issued by the Charity Commission in deciding what activities the charity should undertake.

Use of volunteers:

Volunteers provide much valued additional support and capacity enabling the charity to deliver its aims. During the period volunteers were used to support the work of the Hope Foodbank, our community projects, support for refugees and people seeking asylum, family support work and the general work of Caritas.

Achievements and performance

Reflecting on 2024–25, Caritas Shrewsbury remains deeply proud of the tangible difference its support and services continue to make across communities. Through programmes that prioritise dignity, partnership, and social justice, its reach has remained strong across Wirral, Shrewsbury, Crewe, and Wythenshawe.

The third sector as a whole faces continued challenges around raising additional funds and Caritas is no different. Caritas strives to support a greater number of people that are struggling with mental wellbeing and/or trying to balance their finances as the cost of living crisis continues to force families into difficult decisions, particularly in areas of existing high deprivation where the gap in funding opportunities feels significantly greater.

Caritas Shrewsbury has continued to develop its reach, with new Stronger Together groups in Wirral and Shrewsbury, a monthly SEN Den in Wythenshawe, to fully establishing our St Mary’s Caritas Centre in Crewe, demonstrating that every pound raised makes a positive impact in local communities and we are extremely grateful to everyone that supports our mission either through funding or volunteering.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Schools Service

The Schools Service continues to offer critical help to students and families navigating bereavement, domestic violence, anxiety, anger management, and wider emotional wellbeing challenges. This year, Caritas supported 14 schools across the Diocese, engaging directly with 156 children and 44 parents and carers through programmes such as ‘Talking Teens’ and ‘Nurturing Groups’. The initiative remains a vital bridge between families and schools, providing practical support and advice that improve attendance, emotional health, and academic progress.

Community Support

Community based ‘Stronger Together’ groups continue to flourish, providing safe, inclusive spaces for connection, confidence building, and peer support. Across four groups in Wirral, 103 families were supported, reaching 164 adults and 175 children. A further 623 people (327 adults and 296 children) were supported through family support. The model continues to demonstrate the power of local, relationship-driven community action.

Counselling

The Caritas Counselling Service has grown this year, now supporting 184 clients across Wirral and Shrewsbury. Our team has included 10 student placements, enabling greater reach while nurturing the next generation of practitioners. We have expanded therapeutic approaches to include Clinical Hypnotherapy, Rewind Trauma Therapy, and a new Bereavement Therapeutic Group. Clients consistently report improved wellbeing, increased autonomy, and reductions in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma.

St. Mary’s Caritas Centre, Crewe

St. Mary’s Centre continues to thrive as a vibrant community hub. During 2024–25, it welcomed over 3,137 visits and hosted 47 hours of bookings each week by more than 10 partner organisations. Regular sessions included health and wellbeing programmes, bereavement support, a dementia café, community choirs, Irish dance, and chess club. A new Community Fridge was launched in November 2024 in partnership with Cheshire East Food Network, and the installation of a community laundry now provides on-site support for people experiencing homelessness or hardship.

St. Aidan’s Centre, Wythenshawe

SEND Together has grown into a cornerstone of family and inclusion work in Wythenshawe. During 2024–25, 38 families were supported, with 29 carers attending weekly groups and 44 children participating in inclusive activities. The monthly SEN Den engaged 34 families, while parents also took part in advocacy and training through the Women of Wythenshawe and Greater Manchester Citizens networks.

The Hope Foodbank distributed 383 food parcels and vouchers, supporting 491 adults and 414 children. The MENd Minds group, designed to improve men’s mental health, supported 13 men, helping participants rebuild confidence, pursue recovery, and reconnect with their families.

The Well Project and Hotel Outreach

At St. Aidan’s Centre, The Well Project continues to support refugees and people seeking asylum through English classes, and women’s wellbeing sessions. Over 30 learners engaged in ESOL classes, supported by 13 volunteer tutors. The weekly women’s group welcomed more than 15 regular attendees and hosted 30 families at their Christmas celebration.

The Hotel Outreach Programme provided essential support to families in temporary accommodation, offering weekly creative activities, language classes, and wellbeing sessions. Over 185 children and 20 women participated in art and play sessions, while 35 bus passes per week, 90 SIM cards, and 14 phones were distributed alongside donations of food, clothing, and baby essentials.

Shrewsbury

In Shrewsbury, Caritas expanded local partnerships and piloted new family wellbeing initiatives. The Stronger Together group supported 26 people, while drop-in sessions reached 17 individuals. Parenting groups engaged 14 parents, and counselling was offered to 34 adults.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Appeals and Crisis Grants

Generosity across parishes, schools, and supporters enabled Caritas to respond swiftly to those in crisis. The Caritas at Christmas Appeal raised £17,139, supporting 79 families (126 adults and 146 children) with gifts, food, and essential items. In addition, £27,612 was distributed through Wirral Council Crisis Grants, supporting 142 families including 277 children. The Good Shepherd Appeal, involving 19 schools, raised £10,206. The Trustees remain deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to these vital lifelines.

Financial review

The charity has generated £755k of income mainly through donations and activity funding (2024: £653k) an increase of 15.6% on the previous financial period.

The charity is delivering a significant social return on investment over a wide range of services as demonstrated throughout a summary of our delivery activities.

Expenditure has also grown 6% to £796k (2024: £750k), with most of the increase in cost being covered from the utilisation of unrestricted reserves delivering new projects and covering shortfalls of funding on existing projects.

Reserves

Whilst the Charity has performed well in respect of its core activities, the increase in demand and consequently cost have contracted the unrestricted reserves to £142k (2024: £225k), a reduction of 37%.

Due to the current challenging conditions of the market and demand for support, the board of Trustees have elected to change the reserves policy of the Charity to adopt to the environment in which it currently operates.

The new policy will be to re-develop the unrestricted reserves to 3% of unrestricted income until such time as the demands are fully met by full cost recovery on the activities of the charity.

Risk Management

The Trustees have in place a risk management process to access risks to which the Charity is exposed, those relating to operational and financial risk. This involves assessing the likelihood and potential impact of occurrence and identifying means of mitigation. Financial risks to the Charity have been highlighted throughout the trustee report, operational risks to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults are reviewed and updated every year and have been tested by external review through local authority bodies throughout the Charity's work.

Future Plans

Plans for 2026 will respond to the ongoing impact of the cost-of-living crisis and the developments likely under a new government. The next year’s priorities are:

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

TRUSTEES' REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by a constitution. The affairs of the Charity are governed by the Trustees under the chairmanship of the Bishop. All Trustees are appointed and removed in accordance with the constitution. The Board consists of two clergy and two (2024: four) laity of the faithful. The clergy Trustees are appointed for their expertise in parochial, spiritual and pastoral matters. The lay Trustees are selected for their skills and experience in charities, business, management and property. Further lay trustees would be chosen to match any perceived skill requirement. New Trustees are provided with the terms of reference and a pack of information relating to the constitution, governance and operation of the Trust.

The trustees who served during the year were:

Rt Rev Mark Davies (Chair) Mrs Carol Lawrence Mrs Anne McMullan (Resigned 29 April 2024) Canon Philip Moor (Resigned 2 October 2024) Mrs Christine Smith Rev John Fegan

If the CIO is wound up, the members of the CIO have no liability to contribute to its assets and no personal responsibility for settling its debts and liabilities.

The trustees meet on a quarterly basis, with day-to-day management of the Charity being delegated to the Chief Executive (CEO). Between meetings the CEO has regular support from one of the trustees, who provides financial expertise and support. In order to ensure that the Trustees have the necessary up to date knowledge to govern the Charity, the Chair of Trustees is to instigate a programme of trustee training, delivered by suitably qualified and experienced individuals.

During this financial year Ben Gilchrist acted as the CEO of the charity, and following a restructure of the organisation in December 2025, a new CEO was appointed, Patricia Spencer, a long term senior manager of the charity with extensive knowledge of the activities.

Connected Charity:

The Bishop of the Diocese is Chair of Shrewsbury Roman Catholic Diocesan Trust charity number 234025 and the Council of Management of The Catholic Children’s’ Society (Shrewsbury Diocese) Incorporated, charity number 509793, company number 01400367. Caritas acquired most of the assets and undertakings of the Catholic Children’s Society in December 2016 when it began to operate. Both charities have the use of property belonging to the Diocese of Shrewsbury for which no charge is made.

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees. .............................. AAuN Mrs Carol Lawrence Trustee

Dated: 01/04/2026

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Caritas Di0￿Se of Shrewsbury (the charity) for the year ended 31 March 2025. Responslbillties and basis of report As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordan￿ wtth the requirements of the Charities Act 2011. I report in respect of my examination of the charitls financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145{5){b) of the Charities Act 2011. If7dependent examiners statement Since the charity's gross income ex￿eded £250,000, the independent examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Charities Act 2011. 1 confirm that l am qualified to undertake the examination because l am a member of ICAEW, which is one of the listed bodies. Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared the financial ststements in accordance with the relevant version of the Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their financial statements in accordance with the Finanaal Reporting Standard 8pplicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended practi￿ issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn. l understand that this has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect.. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Charities Act 2011. the financial statements do not accord with those records; or the financial statements do not comply with the applicable requirements con￿MIng the form and content of financial statements set. out in the Charities {Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the financial statements 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 financial statements to be reached. Simon Evans FCA Lewis Evans Partnership LLP The Oaks 3 Village Road West Kirby Wirral CH48 3JN Dated: 1 April 2026

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
Notes
£
£
Income and endowments from:
Donations and legacies
3
220,000
311,114
Charitable activities
4
100,650
83,141
Investments
5
7,415
-
Other income
6
32,880
-
Total income
360,945
394,255
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
7
20,888
-
Charitable activities
8
377,646
397,365
Total expenditure
398,534
397,365
Net expenditure
(37,589)
(3,110)
Transfers between
funds
(44,825)
44,825
Net movement in
funds
11
(82,414)
41,715
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 April 2024
224,994
612,690
Fund balances at 31 March
2025
142,580
654,405		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
531,114
220,995
212,587
183,791
109,359
78,059
7,415
6,519
-
32,880
25,725
-
755,200
362,598
290,646
20,888
21,707
-
775,011
408,210
320,292
795,899
429,917
320,292
(40,699)
(67,319)
(29,646)
-
(15,233)
15,233
(40,699)
(82,552)
(14,413)
837,684
307,546
627,103
796,985
224,994
612,690		 Total
2024
£
433,582
187,418
6,519
25,725
653,244
21,707
728,502
750,209
(96,965)
-
(96,965)
934,649
837,684

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

AS AT 31 MARCH 2025

2025 2024
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible assets 15 515,697 532,392
Current assets
Debtors 16 25,673 14,827
Cash at bank and in hand 383,413 392,797
409,086 407,624
Creditors: amounts falling due within 17
one year (127,798) (102,332)
Net current assets 281,288 305,292
Total assets less current liabilities 796,985 837,684
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds 19 654,405 612,690
Unrestricted funds 20 142,580 224,994
796,985 837,684

01/04/2026

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on ......................... .............................. AAuD Mrs Carol Lawrence Trustee

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Notes
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash absorbed by operations
25
Investing activities
Purchase of tangible fixed assets
Proceeds from disposal of tangible fixed
assets
Investment income received
Net cash generated from investing activities
Net cash generated from financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		 2025
£
(442)
-
7,415		 £
(16,357)
6,973
-
(9,384)
392,797
383,413		 2024
£
(4,545)
565
6,519		 £
(79,308)
2,539
-
(76,769)
469,566
392,797

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Caritas Diocese of Shrewsbury is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation ('CIO') registered in England and Wales and the governing constitution is dated 22 September 2016. The address is Caritas Diocese of Shrewsbury, Wheatland Lane, Wallasey, Wirral, Merseyside CH44 7ED.

1.1 Basis of preparation

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland" and the Charities SORP "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

The trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity can raise sufficient resources/support to meet its obligations and have undertaken a restructure to remove as much excess cost as possible, as well as projects that are a drain on limited resources with no current additional income to support the activity. The charity has the written support of the Diocese of Shrewsbury to assist in any cash shortfall.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors or grantors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements.

Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity.

1.4 Income

Income derived from activity and grants is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

1.5 Expenditure

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Fixtures and fittings 33% on cost Office equipment 33% on cost Functional property Over 40 years straight line Building alterations Over 12 years straight line

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

1.7 Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

1.8 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.9 Financial instruments

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

1.10 Employee benefits

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.

1.11 Retirement benefits

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due.

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

3 Donations and legacies

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
general
2025
2025
£
£
Donations and gifts
42,363
17,303
Legacies receivable
2,637
-
Grants receivable
175,000
293,811
220,000
311,114		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
general
2025
2024
2024
£
£
£
59,666
64,295
-
2,637
6,700
-
468,811
150,000
212,587
531,114
220,995
212,587		 Total
2024
£
64,295
6,700
362,587
433,582

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

3
Donations and legacies
Donations and gifts
Parish Collections
Caritas at Christmas
Good Shepherd
Crib Offerings
Collection Boxes
Donations
Grants receivable for
core activities
Our Mission Together
Wirral Crisis Fund
Afghan Refugee -
Bridging Hotels
SENsitive
Smallwood WOW
Refugee Support - Well
Project
Garfield Weston
Community Projects
Mend Minds		 2,665
-
10,206
1,462
4,063
23,967
42,363
150,000
-
-
-
-
-
25,000
-
-
175,000		 -
17,139
-
-
-
164
17,303
-
27,612
78,783
33,532
-
82,502
-
67,782
3,600
293,811		 2,665
17,139
10,206
1,462
4,063
24,131
59,666
150,000
27,612
78,783
33,532
-
82,502
25,000
67,782
3,600
468,811		 2,579
10,699
11,833
12,787
5,472
20,925
64,295
150,000
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
150,000		 (Continued)
-
2,579
-
10,699
-
11,833
-
12,787
-
5,472
-
20,925
-
64,295
-
150,000
16,570
16,570
78,016
78,016
4,725
4,725
18,156
18,156
43,550
43,550
-
-
47,970
47,970
3,600
3,600
212,587
362,587		 (Continued)
-
2,579
-
10,699
-
11,833
-
12,787
-
5,472
-
20,925
-
64,295
-
150,000
16,570
16,570
78,016
78,016
4,725
4,725
18,156
18,156
43,550
43,550
-
-
47,970
47,970
3,600
3,600
212,587
362,587
64,295
150,000
16,570
78,016
4,725
18,156
43,550
-
47,970
3,600
362,587

Our Mission Together – Support from the Diocese of Shrewsbury

Garfield Weston – Grant to support core costs.

Wirral BC provided £17,222 (2024: £16,570) to support families during the Christmas period with the cost of food.

Community Projects - restricted funds to deliver support across the Diocese of Shrewsbury.

SENsitive Group income – The SENsitive Support and Campaign Group is a group of parents and carers with children with special educational needs.

Smallwood WOW Trust - £18,156 received in the prior period to cover staffing cost, overheads and activities for the Well project supporting refugees for mental wellbeing support and SENsitive support and campaign group.

Refugee Projects:

Refugee Support/Well Project Funds received to support staff costs, refugees and people seeking asylum to help them integrate into the community and their mental well-being.

Afghan Refugees – restricted funds to provide support to a particular group of asylum seekers by offering help to integrate into the community and gave people the confidence to build their new life here in England.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

4
Income from charitable activities
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
School Support
Income for services
provided
-
83,141
Early Help Action Team
Income for services
provided
100,650
-
Other Project Income
Other income
-
-
100,650
83,141
5
Income from investments
Interest receivable
6
Other income
Room hire		 Total
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
funds
funds
2025
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
£
83,141
-
77,416
77,416
100,650
108,662
-
108,662
-
697
643
1,340
183,791
109,359
78,059
187,418
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
2025
2024
£
£
7,415
6,519
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
funds
funds
general
general
2025
2024
£
£
32,880
25,725		 Total
2024
£
77,416
108,662
1,340
187,418

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

7 Raising funds

Fundraising and publicity
Seeking donations, grants and legacies
Other fundraising costs
Staff costs
Fundraising and publicity		 2025
£
7,730
843
12,315
20,888
20,888		 2024
£
7,218
2,858
11,631
21,707
21,707

8 Charitable activities

Staff costs
Volunteer expenses
Support Officer staff recharges from The Catholic Children's Society
Welfare activity
Share of support costs (see note 10)
Share of governance costs (see note 10)
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
Restricted funds
For the year ended 31 March 2024
Unrestricted funds - general
Restricted funds		 2025
£
335,410
560
35,371
158,481
529,822
241,031
4,158
775,011
377,646
397,365
775,011		 2024
£
306,083
295
34,733
147,939
489,050
235,492
3,960
728,502
408,210
320,292
728,502

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

9 Description of charitable activities

Schools Service

Our help is far reaching, as by working with children in schools and their parent/s or carers at home we are able to help the whole family, in some cases extended family too. This takes the pressure off schools, assisting with outcomes that are more positive for all involved.

A school may ask us to provide listening ear support to one child they feel is struggling emotionally in class only for us to find through our own assessment and engagement, that there’s more going on behind the scenes at home, for example:

This helps parents to develop their own coping skills, enabling them to move forward and reach goals, empowering rather than rescuing them. Building upon their confidence and self-esteem, giving them courage to take a lead and move forward themselves.

Parenting Programmes

Parenting Programmes help adults to understand and manage feelings/behaviours, enabling them to become more positive and nurturing in their relationships with children and each other. It encourages an approach to relationships that gives children and adults of all ages, an emotionally healthy start for their lives and learning. As a community support service, the team at Caritas facilitate parenting groups and if needed, work on a oneto-one basis for those parents who cannot attend a group. Caritas are inclusive and classes are open to all.

Early Help Service

Families come into our Early Help Service for a wide range of reasons, including;

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

9 Description of charitable activities

(Continued)

Counselling Service

As we are coming out of lockdown Caritas have noted an uptake in referrals with clients suffering with more severe mental health issues, this is due in part, to the isolation some individuals have had to endure, they have been given time on their own to reflect on their own stories and analyse the various traumas they have suffered through their lives, which has only helped to increase anxieties and feelings of trauma. Caritas’ Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) therapist has noted an increasing number of clients who are selfharming and have attempted suicide.

Bereavement & Loss – Listening Service

We offer a listening ear without judgement immediately after loss or bereavement. To open up to others and let them in and talk about their struggles can be very scary so we provide a safe place where clients can talk freely about their fears and worries. Grief is recognised as a process and range of emotions people go through as they gradually adjust to their loss. Feelings of grief also happen regarding other types of loss such as the end of relationships, the loss of a job, moving house to a new area or decline in physical and mental health of someone you love.

Refugees and People Seeking Asylum

Our English classes have been running online and face-to-face at the St. Aidan’s Centre with referrals from partner organisations. ESOL classes are supported by an amazing and dedicated group of volunteers who deliver two-hour sessions every week.

Afghanistan Refugee Support Project

Support for refugees and people seeking asylum, including those housed in publicly commissioned “hotel” accommodation. Advice, signposting, education, peer support groups, provision of life’s basics. We are seeking an activities to enable the specialist delivery of the work that has supported residents in the hotels to date by our core partners Mustard Tree, Manchester Women’s Aid, City of Sanctuary and MRSN. This will focus particularly on resident’s mental health and wellbeing.

VCSE Hotel Lead Organisation (HLO) role

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

10 Support costs allocated to activities

Staff costs
Depreciation
Support salary costs recharged from The Catholic Children's Society
Travel and subsistence
Other staff costs
Rent, rates and utilities
Repairs and maintenance
Other building and office costs
Computer and IT costs
Telephone costs
Printing, postage and stationery
Other support costs
Governance costs
Analysed between:
Charitable activities
Governance costs comprise:
Independent examination fees
Accountancy		 2025
£
99,101
17,138
38,108
7,060
4,414
23,463
7,878
19,871
9,285
5,435
2,044
7,234
4,158
245,189
245,189
2025
£
2,079
2,079
4,158		 2024
£
94,199
18,066
36,969
7,542
(1,335)
28,018
10,625
15,796
9,684
6,304
5,032
4,592
3,960
239,452
239,452
2024
£
1,980
1,980
3,960

All support costs have been allocated to charitable activities as they are incurred to support and further our core charitable activities.

11 Net movement in funds 2025 2024
£ £
The net movement in funds is stated after charging/(crediting):
Fees payable for the independent examination of the charity's financial
statements 2,079 1,980
Depreciation of owned tangible fixed assets 17,137 18,105
Loss/(profit) on disposal of tangible fixed assets - (39)

12 Trustees

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

13 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

Charitable activities
Employment costs
Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs		 2025
Number
16
2025
£
389,983
35,254
21,589
446,826		 2024
Number
16
2024
£
367,410
32,383
12,120
411,913

Two employees of The Catholic Children's Society (Shrewsbury Diocese) Inc are seconded to Caritas.

In addition to the direct employment costs above, there were recharges of £73,479 (2024: £71,702) during the period from The Catholic Children's Society (Shrewsbury Diocese) Inc in respect of the staff seconded to Caritas. Of this amount, £35,371 (2024: £34,733) is included in charitable activities (see note 8) and £38,108 (2024: £36,969) is included support costs.

The number of employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000 is as follows:

2025 2024
Number Number
£60,001 to £70,000 1 1

Contributions totalling £3,934 (2024: £3,819 ) were made to defined contribution pension schemes on behalf of employees whose emoluments exceed £60,000.

Remuneration of key management personnel

The remuneration of key management personnel, excluding employer pension contributions, is as follows.

2025 2024
£ £
Aggregate compensation 115,429 112,067

14 Taxation

The charity is exempt from taxation on its activities because all its income is applied for charitable purposes.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

15
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures and
fittings
Office
equipment
Functional
property
Building
alterations
£
£
£
£
Cost
At 1 April 2024
21,462
30,678
545,120
1,404
Additions
-
442
-
-
At 31 March 2025
21,462
31,120
545,120
1,404
Depreciation and impairment
At 1 April 2024
17,383
28,301
20,442
146
Depreciation charged in the year
1,891
1,501
13,628
117
At 31 March 2025
19,274
29,802
34,070
263
Carrying amount
At 31 March 2025
2,188
1,318
511,050
1,141
At 31 March 2024
4,079
2,377
524,678
1,258		 Total
£
598,664
442
599,106
66,272
17,137
83,409
515,697
532,392

The construction of the functional property at St Mary’s – Crewe is separately disclosed. This project was completed in conjunction with funds from the Diocese of Shrewsbury, and funds received from the Denise Coates Foundation. The final total cost of the build was £803,604, with Caritas contributing £545,120. The property is built on Parish Land and has shared ownership due to restrictions. A trust deed will be written between the two parties to formalise the relationship.

16 Debtors

Amounts falling due within one year:
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income		 2025
£
16,089
9,584
25,673		 2024
£
10,228
4,599
14,827

17 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Other taxation and social security
Deferred income
Other creditors
Accruals		 2025
£
11,904
55,656
45,997
14,241
127,798		 2024
£
9,714
34,473
44,434
13,711
102,332

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

18 Retirement benefit schemes
2025 2024
Defined contribution schemes £ £
Charge to profit or loss in respect of defined contribution schemes 21,589 12,120

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for all qualifying employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund.

19 Restricted funds

The restricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used.

At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2024 resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £ £
School Support - 83,141 (85,695) 2,554 -
Crewe Caritas Centre Project 522,083 - (13,628) - 508,455
Wythenshawe - Redecoration 1,334 - - - 1,334
Refugee Support (Well Project) - 82,501 (109,392) 119,570 92,679
Afghan Refugee Support 58,508 78,784 (7,304) (129,988) -
Smallwood - WOW - - (10,418) 10,418 -
Community Projects -
Wythenshawe - 10,900 (12,273) 5,673 4,300
Community Projects - Mend
Minds Wythenshawe 6,723 3,600 (1,033) - 9,290
Community Projects -
SENSitive Wythenshawe 24,042 33,532 (26,115) (9,650) 21,809
Community Projects - Wirral - 28,331 (71,875) 43,544 -
Community Projects - Crewe - 19,347 (22,907) 3,560 -
Community Projects -
Shrewsbury - 9,369 (748) - 8,621
Wirral Crisis Fund - 44,750 (35,977) (856) 7,917
612,690 394,255 (397,365) 44,825 654,405

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

19 Restricted funds (Continued)
Previous year: At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2023 resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £ £
School Support - 77,416 (72,538) (4,878) -
Crewe Caritas Centre Project 535,711 - (13,628) - 522,083
Wythenshawe - Redecoration 1,334 - - - 1,334
Refugee Support (Well Project) 12,231 44,193 (57,168) 744 -
Afghan Refugee Support 47,567 78,016 (61,801) (5,274) 58,508
Smallwood - WOW - 18,156 (15,852) (2,304) -
Community Projects -
Wythenshawe - 2,600 (11,890) 9,290 -
Community Projects - Mend
Minds Wythenshawe 4,147 3,600 (1,024) - 6,723
Community Projects -
SENSitive Wythenshawe 23,931 4,725 (4,614) - 24,042
Community Projects - Wirral - 30,000 (46,254) 16,254 -
Community Projects - Crewe 2,182 15,370 (18,772) 1,220 -
Community Projects -
Shrewsbury - - (751) 751 -
Winter Support Fund - Wirral
Council - 16,570 (16,000) (570) -
627,103 290,646 (320,292) 15,233 612,690

The Charity operates on specific objectives and raises funds to support those works within communities across the geography of the Diocese of Shrewsbury. The restricted funds have been broken into sections and details of supporting funding bodies are itemised below:

Denise Coates Foundation – Crewe Caritas Centre Project – fund received to build a centre at St Mary’s Church in Crewe. These funds now represent a restricted building being depreciated over reasonable life expectancy.

School project support in schools for children and staff and surrounding communities. Funds received relating to our school support services are treated as restricted, they include a provision for direct activity and some overhead recovery.

The Future Pathways Initiative - Wythenshawe which empowers students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue professional careers, beginning with a focus on the legal profession and the path to becoming a barrister. Our main funder is CAF (Charity Foundation) £6,474 for staff costs.

Community Projects:

Community Projects across the Diocese of Shrewsbury – We have broken these activities into geographical areas, to help identify appropriate funders to achieve our objectives. To cover staffing costings and running a variety of activities/groups to empower people to build up their mental health and self-esteem so that they feel confident and more equipped to deal with life’s challenges, including bereavement, loss and counselling. Support will also give roadmaps and information to other organisations that may be able to help.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

19 Restricted funds

(Continued)

Wirral:

Early help work part of an alliance working to prevent families going into social care. A variety of activities/ groups to empower adults and children to build up their mental health and self-esteem so that they feel confident and more equipped to deal with life’s challenges. These include Mindfulness groups, Bereavement, listening ear and counselling Parenting programs, ADHD Parenting and strategies including neurodiversity working with those suffering in Domestic abuse, and Stronger together community groups for peer support and advice.

Funding from Rathbone Foundation £6,000, Pathfinder Wirral council £7,167 and Wirral Step – Wirral council £15,000.

Wirral Winter Household Grant (Crisis Fund): Supporting families and single people living on the Wirral in need as they try to balance their finances due to the increase in the cost of living. In addition to £17,139 raised through donations Wirral Borough Council granted us £27,611 to cover heaters, food costs and £856 towards staff costs in administrating the referral process to access the grant.

Wythenshawe:

Mend Minds Regular group promoting wellbeing and exercise for men building mental health and self-esteem with funds from Juiceworks Ltd £3,600.

Community Projects in Wythenshawe:

SEND Together weekly support group for parents / carers of SEN children SEN Workshops / Training for parents / carers of SEND children across Wythenshawe. Funding from Juiceworks Ltd £3,600, Smallwood – Women of Wythenshawe £12,694, NEST GM Systems Manchester £16,000.

Refugee work :

As part of rationalising the work Caritas does with refugees and the cross over that the funding streams give to support these activities. Caritas has merged the funds to provide clarity over the activity delivered and reduce unnecessary costs associated with separation of expenses.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

19 Restricted funds

(Continued)

Crewe:

Community Café/Community Fridge where food is taken by community members when needed Incredible Edible with supported adult group to grow their own vegetables Afternoon Dementia club and monthly community meal all have input from Caritas. Other agencies using centre are marriage care counselling Everybody health and leisure which is falls prevention Lath, funky choir, diabetes clinic, Crewe chess club and Fraser Irish dancing.

Funding from Cheshire East £5,000, Awards for All Community Fund £9,747 and Benefact Trust £4,600.

Shrewsbury:

Shrewsbury provide activities and programmes designed to improve the practical, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of the disadvantaged and often socially isolated, individuals, families and children we work with and make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the people we support. We offer a drop-in service, parenting courses and counselling service. Funding from Awards for All Community Fund £9,369 to cover staff costs.

All other funding is currently derived from unrestricted funds for these community projects.

20 Unrestricted funds

The unrestricted funds of the charity comprise the unexpended balances of donations and grants which are not subject to specific conditions by donors and grantors as to how they may be used. These include designated funds which have been set aside out of unrestricted funds by the trustees for specific purposes.

At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2024 resources expended 2025
£ £ £ £ £
Community Support Fund 12,916 - - - 12,916
General funds 212,078 360,945 (398,534) (44,825) 129,664
224,994 360,945 (398,534) (44,825) 142,580
Previous year: At 1 April Incoming Resources Transfers At 31 March
2023 resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £ £
Community Support Fund 9,156 11,396 (7,636) - 12,916
General funds 298,390 351,202 (422,281) (15,233) 212,078
307,546 362,598 (429,917) (15,233) 224,994

The Community Support Fund – This fund is designed to support those most in need at the most demanding time of year.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

21 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2025
2025
£
£
At 31 March 2025:
Tangible assets
4,647
511,050
Current assets/(liabilities)
137,933
143,355
142,580
654,405
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
2024
2024
£
£
At 31 March 2024:
Tangible assets
7,714
524,678
Current assets/(liabilities)
217,280
88,012
224,994
612,690		 Total
2025
£
515,697
281,288
796,985
Total
2024
£
532,392
305,292
837,684

22 Operating lease commitments

Lessee

At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows:

Within one year
Between two and five years		 2025
£
912
3,192
4,104		 2024
£
-
-
-

23 Events after the reporting date

In consideration of the challenging environment within the charity sector, the trustees have agreed to review all costs that are not associated with the delivery of projects or key to their success, in addition to projects that cannot raise sufficient resources to cover their cost. Consequently, a restructure took place between October and December 2025, this reduced the cost of administration and reduced our activity in Shrewsbury. The restructure of the organisation reduces the cost of operations by £70k.

A new business plan is being written, along with a drive to raise focused income streams and donations for key projects, particularly those that support mental health well-being in Schools and the wider communities. In addition, directly supporting families that are struggling to make ends meet during these difficult times of higher cost of living.

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

24 Related party transactions

Transactions with related parties

Seconded staff payments
2025 2024
£ £
Entities with control, joint control or significant influence over the company 73,479 71,702
73,479 71,702

Staff secondment and other costs were recharged in the period from The Catholic Children's Society (Shrewsbury Diocese) Inc. Caritas has made direct salary and associated payments in respect of the seconded staff.

At the end of the period, a creditor of £39,868 (2024: £34,335) was due from the charity to The Catholic Children's Society (Shrewsbury Diocese) Inc.

The £150,000 (2024: £150,000) grant income received for Our Mission Together (see note 3) is from the Shrewsbury Roman Catholic Diocesan Trust, which is a related charity.

Short-term loan funding of £Nil (2024: £60,000) has been provided to the Shrewsbury Roman Catholic Diocesan Trust during the year and £Nil (2024: £Nil) is included in debtors at the year-end. The loans were interest fee and fully repaid prior to the year-end.

The construction of the functional property at St Mary’s – Crewe is disclosed within fixed assets. This project was completed in conjunction with funds from the Diocese of Shrewsbury, and funds received from the Denise Coates Foundation. The final total cost of the build was £803,604, with Caritas contributing £545,120 and the Diocese £258,484. The property is built on Parish Land and has shared ownership due to restrictions. A trust deed will be written between the two parties to formalise the relationship.

25 Cash absorbed by operations
Cash absorbed by operations 2025 2024
£ £
Deficit for the year (40,699) (96,965)
Adjustments for:
Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities (7,415) (6,519)
Gain on disposal of tangible fixed assets - (39)
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets 17,138 18,105
Movements in working capital:
(Increase)/decrease in debtors (10,846) 24,755
Increase in creditors 4,282 7,945
Increase/(decrease) in deferred income 21,183 (26,590)
Cash absorbed by operations (16,357) (79,308)

CARITAS DIOCESE OF SHREWSBURY

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

26 Analysis of changes in net funds

The charity had no material debt during the year.