SAMARITANS Southend-on-sea Annual Report and Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 SOUTHEND.ON-SEA SAMARITANS Reglsl•red Charlty No. 1173715
Trustees, Annual Report and Accounts Charitable Objectlves of s0uthend-0nea Samaritans ... Letter from the Director........................................... Strategic Report .. Key achievements by our volunteers....... .... Our Branch's contacts In 2022123 and 2023124 compared.............................................. Meet the Branch Leadership Team................. What we did: Tony- Deputy Director Recruitment and Selection................................ What we did: Peter- Deputy Director Training.................................................................. What we did: Debbie and Judith- Deputy Directors Leaders and Mentors .............. What we did: Karen- Deputy Director Volunteer Care.................................................. 10 What we did: Adam - Health and Safety.................... .11 What we did: Chris and DerriGk- outaCh and Publicity............. . . What we did: Colin- Community Partnerships Officer................................................. 14 Southend Samaritans Shop.................................................................................................. 15 2023-24: Samaritans, Year at a Glance................................................................................... 16 .12 Financial Review..........................................................................................................................17 Fundraising Activltles Statement . OurAims:.................... .18 .18 Special Thanks.. ... . Reserves Policy............................................................................................................................20 Ongoing Concern......................................... . .... .20 Risks and Uncertainties.............................................................................................................21 .19 Governance Report.... Our Structure and Governance............................................. .22 .22 Our Governance............................................................................................................................. 22 Statement of Trustees, Responsibilities......................................................................................22 Accounts for the Year Ended 31 March 2024.................... .26 Reference and Administrative Details.................................................................. 46 Page | 2 SAMARITANS
Charitable Objectives of Southend-on-sea Samaritans To enable persons in Southend-on-sea, the surrounding area as well as elsewhere who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those who may be at risk of suicide, to receive confidential emotional support at any time of the day or night in order to improve their emotional health and to reduce the incidence of suicide; to promote a better understanding in society of suicide, suicidal behaviour and the value of expressing feelings which may otherwise lead to suicide or impaired emotional health., and to collaborate with and support Samaritans central charity and its affiliated branches in fulfilling these objects. In setting objectives and planning for activities, the Trustees have given due consideration to general guidance published by the Charity Commission relating to public benefit, including the guidance 'Public benefit-. running a charity (PB2)'. Registered Charity Number.. 1173715 Page | 3 SAMARITANS
Letter from the Director I start by thanking the large number of people who have kept Southend Samaritans running and providing a safe service for over sixty years. many of whom I have never met and all of whom l am in awe of. Every volunteer plays their part in the success achieved over the years. For the past three years the Branch has been led at Director level by Sharon Gatland, who guided us through the process of settling into new premises, through a large part of the Covid restrictions and post- covid recovery, whilst remaining ambitious for the future. In January 2024, Sharon's three-year tenure came to an end and so she and her team of Deputy Directors stood down. I was privileged to be selected to take on the role for the next three-year term and to build a strong team around me. Sharon and her team were dedicated and have a lot to be proud of, succeeding in continuing to grow the Branch and embrace the changes of the time. The majority of this report reflects the achievements made by those team members, including Tony, Peter, Debbie and Judith, Karen, Adam, Chris and Derrick, Colin and several other functional leads whose names may not appear in lights (or text} but whose support we value equally. Your hard work and valuable time have made a real difference to the delivery of the essential operational service we provide day in and day out. Thank you. l also take this opportunity to celebrate and thank both those who remained in their role and those who have taken on new responsibilities. They include Tina. Peter, Debbie, Caroline and Jim as Deputy Directors. l aim to grow the team during the forthcoming twelve months, building roles of a manageable size that can be worked flexibly to fit with other commitments. My final thank you goes to Colin who, despite moving to pastures new with Anglia Ruskin University Samaritans Hub around three years ago, maintains contact with Southend Branch and has continued to lead on the Partnerships piece, providing continuity within the community. Colin has decided to now hand over the mantle (whilst promising to still be there in times of need) and I wish to record grateful thanks for the continued support of our Branch over that period of time. We are delighted that you continue to support the Branch even though you formally step away from leading on Partnerships. Looking to the forthcoming year, the Team and I will build on past successes and take the Branch forward in ways that continue to make us ever more accessible to callers and especially to those at highest risk of suicide. We will continue to offer volunteering opportunities to all sectors of society both as volunteer Samaritans and support volunteers, who might volunteer in our shops, for example. As a team we will encourage all volunteers who want to be involved in the running of the Branch to do so. irrespective of whether that is a role with an ongoing commitment or one-off job and finish type tasks. Page | 4
l am delighted to have within the Branch such an amazing group of people who, each week, willingly give their time to supporting the fantastic work we do. Every single member of the Branch is a volunteer. The time given is without charge but not without cost because time is a precious commodity meaning that, rather than being amongst people who are 'free', l am amongst those who are priceless. I'll report again next year on how we, a priceless team, have succeeded. Together we can make change that saves lives. Ann Hawkins Director Southend Samaritans Date. 20 . IL) 2oZLf Page15
Strategic Report At a national level the Samaritans vision is that fewer people die by suicide. Our mission is to be here every day and night for the year for anyone struggling to cope. We make sure people have somewhere to tum and support when they need it most. We work with communities to let people know we're here for them and we campaign to make suicide prevention a priority. Our values are listening, confidentiality, being non-judgmental, people making their own decisions and human contact. This report reflects how Southend on Sea Samaritans has worked during the year 2023124 to contribute towards those national goals. Together we can make change that saves lives Whilst our support services adapt to the changing environment, the values at the core of our listening service remain constant. We know that to achieve the vision we need to reduce the risk factors that make some people more likely to take their own lives and have worked strategically with partners in our local area to achieve that. More detail is included in Colin Hill's contribution within this report. We have ensured that people who are at increased risk of suicide are supported by both the partnership working and raising the profile of the Samaritans service within our local area. The paragraphs on publicity explain further how this has been achieved and how we continue to work on this aspect that is vital to our City. The Samaritans service and the local contribution are proven to make it less likely that people who do experience suicidal thoughts act on them. We are proud of that achievement and recognise that our aims to both grow in size over forthcoming years and be more visible will have an incremental effect. More local people will understand the confidentiality of our service, know they can feel safe talking to us and will therefore more likely to be open about their feelings. Giving local people time, undivided attention and empathy we meet a fundamental emotional need that reduces distress and despair. Whilst doing this we believe that people have the right to find their own solution and that telling people what to do takes responsibility away from them. Our publicity and Outreach efforts are planned to target the groups at highest risk of developing suicidal thoughts and our messages are that exploring feelings alleviates distress and helps people to reach a better understanding of their situation and the options open to them. Our choice of activities is also influenced by our desire that people are able to talk to us without fear of prejudice or rejection. Page | 6
Key achievements by our volunteers How we did as a Branch in 2023124 4,099 hours on the phone Answered or made 15,138 calls 1,400 hours on the phone at night Spent 6,199 hours in our charitv shops Took part in various outreach events Southend Samaritans, Contacts in 2023124 Our Branch's contacts in 2022123 and 2023124 compared April 2022 - March 2023 72 April 2023 . March 2024 76 Average no. of listening volunteers Total no. of listening shifts I completed Total no. of shop shifts completed 1,051 1,024 588 941" Calls answered Outbound calls Hours on the phone Twilight hours on the phone (10pm- 2am) Overnight hours on the phone (2am - 6am) Total contacts 15.571 53 4,135 Full data not collected 15,075 63 4,099 1,101 Full data not collected 299 15.751 15,138 (") A second shop was opened in Leigh-on-sea in May 2023. Page | 7 SAMARITANS
Meet the Branch Leadership Team What we did: Tina- Deputy Director Recruitment and Selection For the first 10 months of the year Tony held this position and reports that all potential Volunteers apply directly through the Samaritans website. Replicating last year's trend there has been a significant drop in applicants. From March 2023 to March 2024, we had 84 applicants. That said we have the ability to train 36 volunteers in that 12-month period. Despite our best efforts of arranging interviews, we always seemed to have several no shows which potentially impacted our success rate of successful applicants. We successfully interviewed 22 applicants who applied for training. I do note, though, we still attract good interest via the Samaritans website and I feel confident Tina, our new DD for recruitment, will continue to bring new volunteers through to the training process. What we did: Peter- Deputy Director Training The training team consists of 5 volunteer trainers that are also full Listening Volunteers. It's been a busy year for the training team, having completed 3 Core Development training cohorts with 20 volunteers. Each of these training cohorts takes weeks to progress from Core Development to become a Trainee listener within the branch. This was supplemented with Embedding modules that had 10 Probationers moving to full volunteer status and a further 7 Probationers in progress to completion. It takes approx. 10 months to 1 year for a Trainee to become a full listening volunteer. It's a very thorough training process that equips them to be highly skilled trained listening volunteers. Page | 8
In addition to this, the team delivered face to face training for a local external charity "Street Pastors,, and "Outreach" training for volunteers that support local external events and railway stations. What we did: Debbie and Judith- Deputy Directors Leaders and Mentors We aimed to continue supporting the wellbeing of our volunteers. Debbie and Judith worked together for the first 10 months of the year, until it was time for Judith to stand down and Debbie now covers both elements, which compliment each other and provide a complete package of care for all whilst on shift. Each Samaritans shift is supported by a Leader, who takes sign-on before a shift begins (a form of wellbeing checking in) is available for both procedural related events and emotional support for the volunteers during the shift, and takes sign-off from each volunteer at the end of the shift. checking both on the nature of the calls and, again, on the mental wellbeing of the volunteers. Mentors support the development of trainees through the essential practice element of their Core Training, which comprises a minimum of ten mentored shifts. Following the successful completion of this element of the training the Trainees become Probationary Samaritans. Each trainee is assigned a Lead Mentor who oversees their progression through this phase whilst they also spend several shifts with other mentors, to experience differing styles and approaches to the delivery of the listening service which is always delivered within the Samaritan framework. During the year we have continued to train more Leaders and Mentors. The practice of carrying out a mentored shift beeen each of the Embedding training modules during the probationary period has become well established and is a further way of growing and developing skills during the first year or so of being a Samaritans listening volunteer. Page | 9 SAMARITANS
What we did: Caroline- Deputy Director Volunteer Care For the first 10 months of the year Karen held this position. She reports that supporting volunteers is a crucial aspect of the work we do and it is important to us that we look after our own mental wellbeing. The Volunteer Support Team works hard to provide ongoing support to all volunteers who may be in need of that. whatever role they hold. The Volunteer Support role passed from Karen to Caroline in January and each has been proactive in their approach, including regular reviews with the Branch Director to ensure the best possible support is available. At our Branch meeting in June, we focussed on celebrating 70 years of the Samaritans listening service and the 60-year anniversary of Southend Samaritans, we were delighted to host Felicity Varah (daughter of Samaritans founder Chad Varah),. a fascinating and warm lady whose company we enjoyed immensely. Sadly. two of our listening volunteers died unexpectedly this year. We continue to remember them with great fondness and pride in their achievements whilst with Samaritans. They are each greatly missed. During this time, formerly Branch Director Sharon and Karen, along with Central Charity, made sure all of our volunteers affected by this were offered additional support. "There are some whose light continues to shine even after they have left us." Sharon opened her house for a second party in July, and despite the heavens opening. our spirits were not dampened. We had a lovely hog roast, and Tony, a listening volunteer and singer, entertained us. In December we had a very well attended and enjoyable Christmas meal with music and dancing. Our final event of the year was a lovely afternoon in the branch to thank Sharon for all her hard work and dedication over the past 3 years. The volunteers were very generous and we gave her some lovely gifts as well as vocal tributes and poems. All these events have been well attended. and the feedback received has been that events such as these help to make our volunteers feel appreciated, valued and if Page | 10 SAMARITANS
provides a great opportunity for them to socialise together. We hope that this will aid retention. The role passed on to Caroline in January, who continues to ensure we are there for all volunteers. What we did: Adam . Health and Safety Health and Safety Annual Report We are pleased to report that there have been no serious incidents and this is largely due to the diligence of our volunteers who are quick to highlight small issues and comply with protocols so that we can keep ourselves safe. We continue to test our safety systems regularly. including emergency lighting, fire alarms, fire extinguishers and emergency exits in each of our premises. To improve safety at our shops when we have a wealth of donations, we have taken on a premises in St Helen's Road. This enables us to store out of season iterns and provides a hub for online merchandising. All new volunteers receive a Health and Safety induction or briefing which is regularly reviewed. Operational Risk Assessments have been carried out, hold a regular place on the Trustee agenda and are formally reviewed each summer. Buildings Annual Report Those who have read previous annual reports will understand how excited we are to report that the leaks seem to have abated, following persistent and diligent discussions with the many parties involved. We hope this may continue. Those same readers might also understand the disappointment that the door continues to present challenges, despite all remedial action, when we have heavy rain. For now, we continue with the manual work-around to leave the building in these circumstances. We are working towards acceptance that the management of the noise levels in the Operations room is best achieved by a mixture of creating less noise ourselves and using noise management products. We continue to liaise with other Samaritan Branches in the quest for the optimal outcome. In January 2024, Jim became Deputy Director for Premises and will take on responsibility for Health and Safety early next year. Page | 11 SAMARITANS
What we dAd: Chris and Derrick- Outreach and Publicity 4 Chris (Deputy Director for Outreach) Derrick (Publicity Officer) In June. Colin and William attended an event at the Southend Council offices to advertise local support organizations and was well-attended by council workers. Their engagement was met with enthusiasm, raising awareness of available support services in the community. The Leigh Folk Festival in June was a tremendous success. Blessed with bright sunshine, the festival saw a large turnout. Plenty of literature and balloons were distributed within a very festive atmosphere. Our own Sammie (a baby elephant) featured over the summer in the Herd in the City display. His adorable design was a real eye-catcher and of course our services were featured in the programme for the entire herd. Sammie now lives amongst us at the Centre and will be used al Outreach events going forward. In September, William led the outreach efforts at South Essex College Freshers Week, supported by Linzi. This event proved to be extraordinarily successful, marking it as the most well-attended Freshers Week ever. William and Linzi engaged with many students, distributing coffee mats, pencils, and informative literature. The students, enthusiastic reception underscored the importance and impact of their outreach. On a cold November morning at Leigh Station the team engaged with the public following a tragedy on the lines. Despite the chilly weather, meaningful conversations were had, providing support and comfort to those present. The Christmas lights switch-on event in November and Southend High Street Market in December each presented the opportunity to raise awareness of the Samaritans service and encourage members of the community to reach out in times of need. Page | 12
Our final piece of publicity for the year, the Samaritans advertising, is now visible on many buses around Southend, offering a brilliant way to promote our organization. This widespread visibility helps raise awareness about the support we provide and ensures that more people know where to turn in times of need. We are, thereby, able to reach out to our community in an impactful way. Rail Outreach: In November, we received a warm and enthusiastic reception at Rochford Station for our outreach event. Engaging with both the public and station staff proved to be 100 % worthwhile, leading to many valuable conversations. In January, dedicated Samaritans volunteers braved the chill to bring warmth to commuters on Blue Monday. They distributed warm smiles and tea bags at nearby railway stations, spreading a bit of cheer on what is often referred to as the most depressing day of the year. In conclusion, the success of these events would not have been possible without the support of all involved. Your contributions have been invaluable, enabling us to reach out and make a positive impact on our community. Thank you for your continued support. Page | 13 SAMARITANS
What we did: Colin- Community Partnerships Officer 2023 saw a continuation of our relationships with two suicide prevention boards: Southend, Essex and Thurrock (hosted by Thurrock Council), and the other being hosted by Southend City Council. Our role was two-way: on one hand it was to find out what local governments are doing in the prevention of suicide and to be able to provide input to those groups on what Samaritans has been developing (from individually-focused activities or promotions to national initiatives). and to feed back to our colleagues in Central Charity what's happening at a local level. Due to our presence within the community, we were able to foster relationships with local organisations. During the year we had presence at.. Wellbeing events for staff at Southend City Council (at the Civic Centre). Southend Pride. Various outreach events One organisation with whom we fostered a good working relationship was Trust Links. The CEO attended the suicide prevention board meetings and heard about our past relationship with One Love and wanted us to work with their teams. Sharon and I ran a series of workshops with the aim of informing their front-line staff about what we do and how we do it. Finally, the work we did in the past with the Street Pastors continued. Page | 14 SAMARITANS
Southend Samaritans Shop Help us be ther• when it Ifwers i'kbi71F Shop Report During the year we opened a new shop on London Road, Leigh on Sea. We remain grateful for the donation that covered the setup costs. We are pleased with the revenue and delighted at the increased visibility within the community of the Samaritans brand. We remain wholly staffed by volunteers and are proud of that. The shop in Hamlet Court Road continues to trade at the same level as the previous year and we have begun to focus on Online merchandising channels. We sometirnes find that the generous level of donations can make it challenging to keep the sorting room safe. We have hired a storage premises in Sl Helen's Road to help with that and to use as a base for Online trading activity. We surpassed the VAT Registration threshold during the year and are now a registered trader. The supply of used goods is zero rated and we are therefore a repayment trader, meaning we can claim a refund of VAT charged on goodslservices relating to the shop premises and trading activities. Page | 15 SAMARITANS
2023-24: Samaritans, Year at a Glance We are proud of the achievements Southend on Sea Branch has made towards the Samaritans, annual statistics for 2023: Every 10 seconds, Samaritans answers a call for help. Samaritans volunteers responded to more than 3.3 million calls for help. Samaritans volunteers spent more than 900,000 hours responding to calls for help. Samaritans has more than 200 branches and locations across the UK and Ireland. Around 23,000 people volunteered their time for Samaritans including Listener volunteers in prison. Suicidal feelings were expressed in almost 1 in 4 calls for help that involved emotional support. Self-harm was discussed in around 1 in 15 calls for help that involved emotional support. When people contact Samaritans for emotional support, they often mention several concerns. Some of the primary concerns raised related to mental health or illness, family, isolation or loneliness and relationship problems. During 2023, the contact es on our website were viewed almost 1.9 million times. A stud re orted that callers to Samaritans, helpline reported a significant reduction in distress. A week after calling Samaritans, 7 out of 10 callers said they felt the call had a positive impact on how they were feeling. 'Calls for help, inGludes all methods of contact telephone/email/online chat/face to faGe recorded in eLog. "Markham, T., Forshaw, A. and Sutcliffe, R. (2020). Samaritans Caller Outcomes Study. Birmingham.. MEL Research Ltd. Page | 16 SAMARITANS
Financial Review Income (For the Year Ended 31 March 2024) Total: £162,279 £5,084 5,553 £27,214 , 16.80A £114.428 70.5% Donations Shop sales and events Investment income Other income Expenditure (For the Year Ended 31 March 2024) Total: £156,480 £37,456 24% £119,024 76% Fundraising expenses Charitable activities Page | 17 SAMARITANS
Fundraising Activities Statement Southend Samaritans Annual Report- Fundraising During this period, we opened a new shop and our funding streams are now broadened to income from both shops and associated online merchandising. We continued to benefit from kind donations and legacies. We became more agile in the management of requirement for immediate funds and took a proactive approach to investing funds not needed immediately in a manner that derived some income. The table below provides a breakdown of the specific sources of income we have received through our fundraising over 202312024: Southendwon4ea Samaritans ecific Fundraising Sources {1$t Apr 2023 - 31st March 2024) Income Source Amount £5,000.00 £4,851.78 £4,310.00 £2,088.56 £1,915.74 £1,630.90 £1,035 £1,000 £758 £468 £396 £304 Ref Anonymous donation Enthuse - anonymous donations Broadway Belles Women's Institute Buskerteers, Choir Keith Gosney M Sutton - Lights Show Daniel's Funeral Berg Family Trust Send Tech SO Ltd. Raffle I Coin Roll Christmas Do Benevity c2c 10 11 12 Our Aims: branch's requlre fvnd5throu8h THRIVE-. ai5e awareness of branch campai%ns Increa5evolunteer involvernent Page | 18 SAMARITANS
For the year ahead, we plan to consolidate our merchandising income streams and critically examine how to achieve optimal income. We will build on the knowledge we have and aim to flourish as our newer shop managers and volunteers gain experience, and our Leigh shop becomes further embedded into the local community. As we do this, we will reconsider the costs and benefits of implementing an automated Retail Gift Aid scheme. Special Thanks The Branch extends special thanks to.. Anonymous donors Broadway Belles Women's Institute Buskerteers Choir Keith Gosney M Sutton Berg Family Trust Send Tech SO Ltd. Benevity c2c All our volunteers and supporters! The support of our donors and the tireless efforts of our volunteers has kept the phone lines connected, the lights on and the heat running, aided volunteer care and contributed to the possibility of the branch thriving in the future. for helplng Samaritan5 Stay open Most importantly the funds have supported the continued provision of the vital services we provide to those most in need, both locally and across the nation. Page | 19 SAMARITANS
Reserves Policy The Trustees reviewed the current reserves policy to hold funding for 18 months in reserve. Reflecting on the broadening of the income, it was agreed to make both investments and donations to other parts of Samaritans who have an identified need. The Trustees are privileged to have the means to do so, and are grateful to all who worked hard over the years and contributed to the branch's current position. Ongoing Concern After due consideration and endorsed by the Accountant the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Page | 20 SAMARITANS
Risks and Uncertainties How we manage risk The Board of Trustees are ultimately responsible for risk management. They review key risks and the adequacy of actions being taken to address those risks, on a regular basis. Service.. Changes to our core service to protect the critical function and development of new volunteers and how we can continue to develop. train. and increase numbers of volunteers vitally needed to continue our service. We continue to audit and quality check training around Safeguarding for children and vulnerable adults accessing our service. This is with a focus on developing our mature safeguarding culture on service and structure, quality improvements, investigations, policies and procedures and governance. People: Prioritising and ensuring the safety, wellbeing, engagement, and commitment of volunteers. Page | 21 SAMARITANS
Governance Report Our Structure and Governance Southend Samaritans is an affiliated branch of our Central charitable company limited by guarantee. We were founded by Prebendary Dr Chad Varah CH CBE MA in 1953 and incorporated in 1963. A. Constitution th The charity was incorporated on 7 July 2017 and commenced trading on that date. The principal object of the charity is to provide confidential, non-judgmental emotional support to those in distress, despair or feeling suicidal. B. Methods of appointment or election of trustees The management of the charity is the responsibility of the Trustees who are elected or co-opted under the terms of the Samaritan Branch Model Constitution. C. Financial risk management The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those related to the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied that systems and procedures are in place to mitigate our exposure to the major risks. Our Governance As a learning organisation we are always keen to develop and adapt our ways of working in the interests of our beneficiaries and volunteers. 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). 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 its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Trustees are required to: select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; observe the methods and principles of the Charities SORP (FRS 102). make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent., Page | 22 SAMARITANS
state whether applicable UK Accounting Standards (FRS 102) have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements., prepare the financial statements on the going concem basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Charity will continue in business. The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Charity's transactions and 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, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Constitution. 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. Approved by order of the members of the board of Trustees and signed on their behalf by (Ludl(XLN- Ann Hawkins Branch Director and Chair of Trustees Page | 23 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Southend-on-sea Samaritans {'the Charity.) I report lo the charity Trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2024. Responsibilities and Basis of Report As the Trustees of the Charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act,). I report in respect of my examination of the Charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145{5)(b) of the 2011 Act. Page | 24 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND4)NSEA SAMARITANS INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Independent Examiner's Statement Your attention is drawn to the fact that the Charity has prepared the accounts in accordance with 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 IFRS 1021 in preference lo the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdr8wn. l understand that this has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or afler 1 January 2015. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come lo 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 2011 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 fairf view which is not a Matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have no concems and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. This report is made solely to the Charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities IA¢counts and Reports) Regulations 2008. My work has been undertaken so that I might stale to the Charity's Trustees those matters l am required lo stale lo them in an Independent Examiner's Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, I do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Charity and the Charity's Trustees as a body, for my work or for this report. Signed.. Dated.. Ltliil&+ Stuart Harrison FCA Venthams Chartered Accountants Millhouse 32 - 38 East street Rochford Essex SS41DB Page | 25 SAMARITANS
S0UTHEND4)NEA SAMARITANS STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTivrriES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Unrestricted funds 2024 Restricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Total fvnds 2023 Notg Income from: Donations and legacies 27,214 27,214 13,514 Other trading activities 114,428 114,428 74,083 Investments 5,084 5,084 742 Other income 15,553 15,553 (6,700) Total income Expenditure on: 162279 162 279 Raising funds 14.480 22.976 37,456 17,800 Charitable activities 92.155 26.869 119,024 86,908 Totsl expenditur¢ 106635 Net incomel{expenditurel before net gains on investments 5S.644 149.845) 5,799 (17,069) Nel gains on investments 7,933 7,933 Net movement in funds 69 Reconciliation of funds: Total funds brought fomard 823,911 85,012 908,923 925, 992 Net movement in funds 63,577 {49.8451 13,732 (17,069) Totsl funds carried forward Page | 26 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 2024 2023 Note Fixed assets Tangible assets 12 649,424 656,676 Investments 13 137,956 730,024 787,380 786. 700 Current assets Debtors 14 3,168 3,009 Cash al bank and in hand 141.671 150.040 144.839 153,040 Creditors.. amounts falling due within one year 15 19.564) (30,817) Ngt current assets 135.275 122,223 Total assets less current liabilities 922.655 908,923 Total net assets Charity funds Restricted funds 16 35.167 85,012 Unrestricted funds 16 887.488 823,911 Total funds The financial slalemenls were approved and aulhorised for issue by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by.. A Hawkins Trustee Date: 10 10 Page | 27 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-0NEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 General information Soulhend-on-sea Samaritans is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered in England and Wales. Its principal office address is 61-71 Beaumont Court, Victoria Avenue. Southend-on-sea, Essex, SS2 6EB. Accounting poli¢ie$ 2.1 Basi5 Of preparation of financlal statements The financial statements h8ve been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP IFRS 1021 Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. S18tement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 (effective 1 January 20191, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Charities Acl 2011. The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fairf view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'lrue and fair, view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 1021 published in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities.. Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn. soUthend-Se8 Samaritans meet5 the definition of a public benefit enlily under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised al historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy. Page | 28 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON*EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accountlng policies (continued) 2.2 Incomè All income is recognised once the Charity has entillernent to the income, il is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. The recognition of income from legacies is dependent on establishing entitlement, the probability of receipt and the ability to estimate with suffi¢ienl accuracy the amount receivable. Evidence of entitlement to a legacy exists when the Charity has sufficient evidence that a gift has been left to them Ilhrough knowledge of the existence of a valid will and the death of the benefactor) and the executor is satisfied that the propety in question will not be required lo satisfy claims in the estate. Receipt of a legacy musl be recognised when it is probable that it will be received and the fair value cif the amount receivable, which will generally be the expected cash amount lo be distributed to the Charity, can be reliably measured. Grants are included in the Statement of Financial Activities on a receivable basis. The balance of income received for specific purposes bul not expended during the period is shown in the relevant funds on the Balance Sheet. Where income is received in advance of enlillement of receipt, its recognition is deferred and included in creditors as deferred income. Where enlillement occurs before income is received. the income is accrued. Where the donated good is a fixed asset, tt is measured at fair value. unless it is impractical lo measure this reliably, in which case the cost of the item lo the donor should be used. The gain is recognised as income from donations and a corresponding amount is included in the appropriate fixed asset class and depreciated over the useful economic lrfe in accordance with the Charity's accounting policies. On receipt, donated profession81 services and facilities are recognised on the basis of the value of the gift lo the Charity which is the amount il would have been willing to Pay to obtain services or facilities of equivalent economic benefit on the open market., a corresponding amounl is then recognised in expenditure in the period of receipt. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Grft Aid or deeds of covenanl is recognised al the lime of the donation. Income tax recoverable in relation lo investment income is recognised at the lime the investment income is receivable. Other income is recogrnised in the period in which it is receivable and to the extent the goods have been provided or on cornpletion of the service. 2.3 Expenditure Expenditure is recognised once there is 8 legal or constructive obligation lo transfer economic benefit to a third paty, it is probable Ihat a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the oblig81ion can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset's use. Expenditure on raising funds includes 211 expenditure incurred by the Charity lo raise funds for its charitable purposes and includes costs of all fundraising activities events and non-charilable trading. Page | 29 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies (continued) 2.3 Expenditure {continuedl Expenditure on charitable activities is incurred on directly undertaking the activities which further the Charity's objectives, as well as any associated support costs. Grants payable are charged in the year when the offer is made except in those cases where the offer is conditional, such grants being recognised as expenditure when the conditions attaching are fulfilled. Grants offered subject lo conditions which have not been met at the year end are noted as a commitment. but not accrued as expenditure. All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT. 2.4 Intere$t reeelvable Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the Charity., this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payab by the institution with whom the funds are deposited. 2.5 Tangible flxed assets and depreciation Tangible fixed assets costing £500 or more are capitalised and recognised when future economic benefits are probable and the cost or value of the asset can be measured reliably. Tangible fixed assets are initially cOgniSed at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, tangible fixed assets are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. All costs incurred lo bring a tangible fixed asset Into its intended working condition should be included in the measurement of cost. Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of tangible fixed assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, on a reducing balance basis. Depreciation is provided on the following basis.. Office equipment 25Yu reducing balance 2.6 Investments Fixed asset investments are a form of financial instrument and are initially recognised al their transaction cost and subsequently measured al fair value at the Balance Sheet date, unless the value cannot be measured reliably in which case it is measured at cost less impairment. Investment gains and losses, whether realised or unrealised, are combined and presented as 'Gainsl{Lossesl on investments, in the Statement of Financial Activities. 2.7 Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognised al the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net ofany trade discounts due. 2.8 Cash at bank and in hand Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short-term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. Page | 30 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Accounting policies {¢ontlnuedl 2.9 Liabilities and provisions Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance Sheet dale as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement. and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the Charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. Provisions are measured at the best estirnale of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is materi81, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rale that reflects the risks specific to the liability- The unwinding of the discount is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities as a finance cost. 2.10 Financial instruments The Charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured al amortised cost using the effective interest method. 2.11 Fund accounting General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the Charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds th81 have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance wrth specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the Charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund 15 set out in the notes to the financial statements. Investment income, gains and10sse5 are allocated to the appropriate fund. Page | 31 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Income from donations and lègacigs Unrestricted funds 2024 Restricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Donations Unrestricted funds 2023 Restricted funds 2023 Total funds 2023 Donations Income from othér trading activltles Income from fundraising events Unrestricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Revenue from shop sales and events Unrestricted funds 2023 Total f(Jnds 2023 Revenue from shop sales and events Page | 32 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Investment Income Unrestricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Investment income local cash Unrestricted fvnds 2023 Total funds 2023 Investment income - local cash Other incoming resources Unrestricted funds 2024 Total funds 2024 Grants received Unreslricled fvnds 2023 Total funds 2023 Grants received Page | 33 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Expenditure on raising funds Fundralslng trading expenses Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 Utililies, rent and rates 11,109 22,976 34.085 Housekeeping 2,477 2.477 Administration 384 Building maintenance 510 510 Fundraising trading expenses {continued) Unrestricted fvnds 2023 Restricted funds 2023 Total funds 2023 Utilities, rent and rates 2.540 4,399 6.939 Housekeeping 1,677 1.677 Adminislralion 243 243 Building maintenance 2.941 2.941 Page | 34 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analy$is of grants Grants to Institutions 2024 Total funds 2024 Total funds 2023 Grants, Central Samaritans Analysis of expenditure by activities Activities undertaken directly 2024 Grant funding of activities 2024 Support costs 2024 Total funds 2024 Supporting activities Page | 35 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-0NEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysis of expenditure by activities (continued) Activities undertaken directly 2023 Support costs 2023 Total funds 2923 Supporting activities Analysis of direct Costs Supporting activities 2024 Total funds 2024 Rent, rates and service charges 7.537 7,537 Insurance 2.332 2.332 Light and heat 4,582 4.582 Housekeeping 2,059 2.059 Cleaner 3.527 3.527 Repairs and renewals 817 817 Computer running costs 3,215 3.215 Travelling 2,441 2.441 Conferences 2,647 2,647 Contributions to Samaritans 13,638) (3,638) Legal and professional 91 91 Fundraising expenses 233 233 Publicity and advertising 26.869 26,869 Telephone and internet 3.228 3,228 Volunteer care 6,474 6,474 Page | 36 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysis of expenditure by actlvities (continued) Supporting activities 2023 Tot81 funds 2023 Rent, rates and service charges 4,108 4, 108 Insurance t,500 1,500 Light and heat 2,992 2.992 Housekeeping 1,599 1,599 Cleaner 3,304 3,304 Repairs and renewals 3,353 3,353 Computer njnning costs 735 735 Travelling 2,596 2,596 Conferences 1,675 7,615 Contributions lo Samaritans 29,857 29,851 Legal and professional 1.633 1,633 Fundraising expenses 469 469 Sundry expenses 158 158 Publicity and advertising 10,454 10,454 Telephone and internel 5,3f9 5,319 Volunteer care 5,020 5,020 Page | 37 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-0NEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysis of expenditure by activities Icontinu¢d} Analysis of support costs Supporting activities 2024 Total funds 2024 Depreciation 7,252 7,252 Legal and professional 1,812 1,812 Administration, printing. poslage and stationery 2.546 2.546 Page | 38 MARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Analysis of expenditure by a¢tivitigs Icontinuedl Analysis of support costs (continued) Supporting activities 2023 Total funds 2023 Depreciation 7,652 7,652 Legal and professional 1, 722 1,722 Administration, printing, postage and stationery 2,762 2, 762 10. Independent examiner's remuneration 2024 2023 Fees payable to the Charity's independent examiner for the independent examination of the Charity's annual accounts 11. Trustees. remuneration and expenses During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration or other benefits (2023- £NIL-J. During the year ended 31 March 2024, expenses totalling £NIL were reimbursed or paid directly to Trustee (2023- £531 to 2 Trustees). Page | 39 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 12. Tangible fixed assets Freehold property Office equipment Total Cost or valuatlon Al 1 April 2023 648,342 28.579 676.921 At 31 March 2024 648,342 28,579 676.921 D¢preclation At 1 April 2023 20,245 20,245 Charge for the year 7,252 7.252 Al 31 March 2024 27,497 27,497 Net book valu• At 31 March 2024 At 31 March 2023 13. Fixèd assèt invèstmants Unlisted investments Cost or valuation At 1 April 2023 130.023 Revaluations 7,933 At 31 March 2024 Net book value At 31 March 2024 137.956 Al 37 March 2023 Page | 40 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ONSEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 14. Debtors 2024 2923 Due within one year Other debtors 3,168 3,000 15. Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year 2024 2023 Trade creditors (3491 (304) Other creditors 8,100 29,398 Accruals and deferred income 1,813 1,723 Page | 41 SAMARITANS
S0UTHEND4)NEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 16. Statement of funds Statement of funds- current year Balance at 31 March 2024 Balance at 1 Aprll 2023 Gainsl (Losses) Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds Designated funds Property fund 648 342 General funds General fund 175 569 162 279 106 63S 239 146 Total Unrestricted funds 823,911 162.279 1106,635} 7.933 887.488 Restricted funds Sl Saviours Housing Trust Total offunds Page | 42 SAMARITANS
S0UTHEND4)NEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 Statement of funds - prior year Balance at 31 March 2023 Balance at 7 April 2022 Transfers in/out Income Expenditure Unrestricted funds Deslgnated funds Property fvnd 648 342 General funds General fund 170423 175 569 Total Unrestricted funds 818, 765 80,638 (78,492) 3.000 823,911 Restricted funds Sam Pears Foundation 1,670 (1,670) Essex Community Foundation 5.557 (5,557) St Saviours Housing Trust 100,000 (11,988) (3,000) 85,012 The Berg Trusl 7,000 (1,000) 107,227 t,ooo (20, 215) (3,000) 85,012 Total of funds 81638 Page | 43 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ON4EA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 17. Analysis of net assels belween funds Analysis of net assets between funds - current period Unrestricted Restricted funds funds 2024 2024 Total funds 2024 Tangible fixed assets 649,424 649,424 Fixed a55et investments 137.956 137.956 Current assets 109.672 35,167 144,839 Creditors due within one year 19,5641 19.5641 Total Analysis of net assets between funds - prior period Unrestricted funds 2023 Restricted funds 2023 Total funds 2023 Tangible fixed assets 656.676 656,676 Fixed asset investments 130,024 130.024 Current assets 68,028 85,012 153,040 Creditors due within one year (30.817) (30,817) Total Page | 44 SAMARITANS
SOUTHEND-ONSEA SAMARITANS NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 18. Operating lease commitments At 31 March 2024 the Charity had commitments lo make future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable oper81ing leases as follows.. 2024 2023 Not later than 1 year 12.000 12,000 Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years 36,000 48,000 19. Related party transactions The Charity has not entered into any related party transartion during the year, nor are there any outstanding balances owing between related parties and the Charity at 31 March 2024. Page | 45 SAMARITANS
Reference and Administrative Details Registered address: 61-71 Beaumont Court Victoria Ave Southend on Sea Essex SS2 6EB Registered charity: 1173715 Website: samaritans.orglsouthendonsea Board of Trustees Ann Hawkins (Chair) Ray Turner (Secretary & Governance) Judith Bailey Diane Smith (Treasurer) Caroline Jennings (FundraisinglGrants) Deborah Downs Peter Thomas Southend Samaritans Senior Staff Bankers: National Westminster Bank plc 132 High Street Southend -on-Sea Essex SS1 1JX Accountants: Venthams Chartered Accountants Millhouse 32-38 East Street Rochford Essex SS4 1DB Solicitors: Jeffries Solicitors 3rd Floor Dencora Court Tylers Avenue Southend-on Sea Essex SS12BA Page | 46 SAMARITANS
We would like to thank all our donors and supporters including those who wish to remain anonymous. theWI INSPIRING WOMEN benevity Plus our supporters and partners. donro enthuse crowstone E S T A T E S SAMARITANS Along with all our volunteers! Page | 47 Southend-on-sea
We're here to listen Coll free day or night on 116 123 Email jo@samaritans.org Web samaritans.org/southendonsea Visit us Beaumont Court, 61-n Victoria Ave Southend-on-sea SS2 6EB SAMARITANS