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← Awamu

2024-06-30-accounts

Charity registration number 1174256

Company registration number 07818944 (England and Wales)

AWAMU

ANNUAL REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

AWAMU

LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Trustees W Teuna Van Rijn
J Rugambwa
J Baker Nabwire
M Dennis
Charity number 1174256
Company number 07818944
Registered office 3 East Point
High Street
Seal
Sevenoaks
Kent
TN15 0EG
Independent examiner Lee, Dicketts & Co
3 East Point
High Street
Seal
Sevenoaks
Kent
TN15 0EG

AWAMU

CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' report 1 - 12
Independent examiner's report 13
Statement of financial activities 14 - 15
Statement of financial position 16
Notes to the financial statements 17 - 29

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2024.

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 Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "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)" (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and activities

Awamu’s mission is to supercharge the potential of women and girls in the slums of Kampala, Uganda. We invest in them – their education, skills and healthcare. And as they rise they take their communities with them.

The objectives of Awamu are, for the public benefit:

To relieve poverty to enable individuals to generate a sustainable income and be self-sufficient; to advance education; and to advance health; in each case for the benefit of orphaned and/or vulnerable children and women (in particular, but not limited to, guardians of orphaned and vulnerable children) in Africa.

Executive summary

Welcome to our annual report. In 2023–24, your support enabled Awamu to expand our work across Kampala’s slums, helping to change lives and open up new opportunities for women and girls.

Key Impact Numbers:

Message from our Treasurer on behalf of the trustees

Dear Friends of Awamu,

It is with deep gratitude and renewed purpose that I present our Annual Report for 2024 on behalf of Awamu’s trustees. Over the past year, your support has helped us create meaningful, long-term change in the lives of girls in Kampala. We have witnessed first-hand how sustained investment in education, vocational training, and comprehensive care not only builds resilience but also unlocks the potential within every girl.

Supporting children to complete their education requires ongoing commitment. We are now seeing the powerful impact of that commitment: many of our former participants are becoming champions for change in their communities. They are joining our team as volunteers—sharing their hard-earned knowledge, building the confidence of their peers and passing on the skills they've gained. In doing so, they inspire others to dream and strive for a brighter future.

Every achievement detailed in this report is a testament to your generosity and belief in the potential of young women. Thank you for listening to their voices and for helping us build a future where every girl has the opportunity to achieve her potential.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Thank you.

Mark Dennis, Treasurer Trustee for Awamu

Public benefit

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

Achievements and performance

Significant activities and achievements against objectives

Our Impact

In partnership with women and girls

In the slum areas where we work, most family incomes are under 50p/day, 40% of households are involved in sex work, and child motherhood due to sexual violence is very common - with 60% of girls reporting sexual violence during lockdown. HIV levels for young people are almost double Uganda’s average.

Child mothers and sexual violence survivors face an impossible situation, struggling to access to healthcare, education or training - they are shamed across the community, including at health facilities, and forced to drop out of school without the skills to earn an income to support their families, pushing many into sex work.

In response to the challenges faced by girls in Kawempe slums, Awamu supports child mothers, sexual violence survivors and other vulnerable girls with solutions that address their unique needs, responsibilities and perspectives. We provide shelter and care in crisis situations, and over the longer-term support girls’ access to school, provide life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare and arm them with the skills they need to earn a living and take back control of their lives.

Since 2008, Awamu has closely worked with Tusitukirewamu Group Bwaise, a registered non-governmental organisation started in 1998 by a group of local women in Kawempe. Tusitukirewamu has a long-running network of community-based women volunteers, and a trusted reputation and networks with community members, local leaders and service providers.

The Nansamba Safe Haven - our emergency refuge for girls escaping violence

Our Nansamba Safe Haven refuge provides emergency shelter and support for girls under 18 who have experienced gender-based and/or sexual violence. With no other shelters available in this area, the only other option for girls who have been attacked is to go to the police station where the only accommodation available is a locked shipping container with many other women, without appropriate support or care.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Our specialist team provides girls with emotional care, emergency health treatment (including DNA swabs), psychosocial support and trauma counselling. We also support them with reporting crimes to the police, help with legal aid and provide ongoing follow-up to ensure incidents are investigated properly. The team has decades of experience working with children and vulnerable adults in volatile situations and have specialist psychosocial and counselling officers. A strong security presence at the shelter ensures girls can stay safe. We also have a wellestablished referral model in place with strong links to healthcare, police and other services.

The Safe Haven is equipped with accommodation facilities to provide temporary shelter to a maximum of 6 girls for up to a week, with our team supporting them to find a safe place to stay after this period. After leaving the shelter, girls receive ongoing home-based care and counselling from our volunteer Community Mentors, and are supported to access our wider programmes. This year, 630 girls received safety and care at our shelter.

The Nansamba Safe Haven also provides a venue for our sexual reproductive healthcare, skills training and education programmes, ensuring that every girl has access to the comprehensive support she needs to heal, learn and thrive.

We were honoured to name this sanctuary after Nansamba Kyegombe. In her name, we are committed to providing a safe space where girls can rebuild their lives, regain their confidence and pursue their dreams.

Lifesaving ‘girl-friendly’ sexual and reproductive healthcare services

Thousands of girls and young women have accessed vital ‘girl-friendly’ sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services this year. Our 'girl-friendly' approach focuses on treating girls in a welcoming, friendly and non-judgemental way, with trauma-informed counselling available, alongside provision of emergency care, contraception, HIV testing and maternal healthcare. Our girl-friendly drop-in clinic at the Nansamba Safe Haven, available twice a week, has served 803 girls this year, with 90% tested for HIV and 99% of babies of child mothers referred for vaccinations.

We’ve also supported a further 1,298 girls through community health outreaches, providing treatments for sexually transmitted diseases and education on sexual health.

Peer-to-peer counselling has been key in reaching more girls, with 20 girls trained as peer counsellors, reaching 1,187 girls with sexual and reproductive health information. We’ve also partnered with local media to spread awareness on topics that affected girls and young women, reaching thousands across Kawempe through radio broadcasts.

Through this comprehensive healthcare approach, we ensure that the girls we support are not only healthy but also empowered to make informed decisions about their well-being.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Miremba, 15, was trafficked to Kampala at age 12.

“I was brought to Kampala to be a house girl, but it turned out to be for sex work. I wasn’t allowed to contact my family and didn’t know how to stay safe. In January, I met a woman from Awamu at a health outreach. I was scared, but she was kind. I tested positive for HIV and I struggled to accept it. The team helped me go to the hospital, where I now receive Antiretroviral treatment and they give me counselling. I am coping. I’m also learning new skills to earn a living and feel happy I can see a new future now.”

Economic empowerment

Our Economic Empowerment skills training programme, also hosted at the Nansamba Safe Haven, has proven to be a vital lifeline for girls who have experienced violence, child marriage and other significant barriers to education. By providing practical skills that girls can use to earn a living, we are helping them rebuild their lives and achieve financial independence.

This comprehensive training equips girls with both the practical and essential skills they need to generate income and become financially independent. Girls completing an Economic Empowerment course receive training in tailoring (an in-demand skill locally), as well as business management, computer skills and basic numeracy, with childcare provided. Girls are also supported with sexual and reproductive healthcare and ongoing counselling. After completing a course, girls are connected with local organisations seeking workers or supported to set up small businesses to provide a sustainable income for themselves and their children.

In addition to the six-month training, we run ‘Rapid Skills’ training sessions, which are short, two-day workshops focused on teaching immediate, marketable skills like baking, soap-making, and sponge-making. This training helps the girls generate income quickly, easing their immediate financial pressures while they continue with their longer, more in-depth vocational courses. By providing this dual approach, we ensure that every girl can start earning while progressing through their training, making it easier for them to stay motivated and complete the full programme.

This Year, 136 girls have successfully completed our six-month training programme in tailoring, business skills, literacy and financial literacy . (251 since we launched this new programme in Jan 23).

One of the most important lessons we've learned this year is the critical role of literacy and numeracy support in girls' success. 50% of our trainees have been completely illiterate when they started the programme. To address this, we have incorporated targeted literacy and numeracy classes into our training programmes. These classes are essential for giving girls the foundational skills they need to succeed in both vocational training and in life.

Alongside literacy and numeracy, we have integrated financial literacy lessons on saving, record-keeping, and participation in credit circles, which help the girls develop the skills necessary for entrepreneurial success. These combined lessons have proven to have a significant impact on the girls' confidence, financial management and their ability to run sustainable businesses.

At the end of their training, girls sit exams with the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) to earn external qualifications. 81% of the girls have passed, with over half earning the highest grades. These qualifications significantly boost their job prospects, empowering them to pursue a variety of career paths and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to expanding our skills training programmes. We plan to reduce the group size to offer even more personalised attention, to help girls overcome their challenges and build successful, independent futures.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

"I thank you for who I am today. I take my business as my first priority. I can now rent my own house and support my mum in the village. I’m happy that I can smile again."

Swabrah, 16, has turned her life around by building a successful tailoring business. She also learned hairdressing and earns 15,000-20,000 UGX (£3-£4.50) a day, providing stable income and supporting her family.

Swabrah was brought to Kampala under false promises of work, only to face a dangerous situation that put her life at risk. Everything changed when one of our mentors identified her. After finding safety at our shelter and receiving counselling, Swabrah joined our tailoring and literacy programme, gaining skills to start her own business. She graduated with her DIT certificate.

Catch-up education programme

Over the past two years, our catch-up education programme has helped marginalised girls return to school after prolonged absences, many because of violence, early motherhood, and the COVID-19 lockdown.

Through this programme, girls are supported to gain confidence, re-establish the skills they need for successful learning (including reading, writing, study techniques), build a peer support network and access counselling and sexual and reproductive healthcare, via a three-month learning programme. Girls then re-join mainstream education at our partner schools and are provided with ongoing support including provision of learning materials (stationery/ books), ongoing counselling, and regular mentoring support from our community mentors to build resilience, address any issues and ensure girls feel supported and able to continue their education. We work closely with partner schools, providing training to ensure they provide a welcoming and supportive environment for girls. We also provide skills training for girls’ caregivers, alleviating the financial pressures that might otherwise force girls to leave school to find work, and enabling families to work towards covering girls' school fees.

This year another 114 girls successfully completed the programme (251 since we launched in January 2023), and 120 of their caregivers have received skills training. 95% of girls in the programme have successfully re-joined mainstream school, with no dropouts to date.

We’ve found that close collaboration with partner schools, including teacher training to create a safe and supportive environment, has been instrumental to the programme’s success. These ongoing partnerships with schools ensure that girls have the foundation they need to thrive academically and emotionally.

Moving forward, our focus will shift to ensure that the girls who have completed the programme remain supported and motivated to continue their education, helping them stay on track and achieve their goals. We are also expanding our partnership approach to more schools in the Kawempe area, offering a sustainable solution to supporting vulnerable girls in their education.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

“Joining school is the happiest moment of my life. I’m so grateful that my dream is now on track.” Catherine, 16

Catherine couldn't return to school after COVID. For more than four years, she worked as a street vendor, facing constant harassment from men touching and groping her. Overwhelmed when a man tried to assault her, she found refuge with a group of women sitting under a tree. This is where one of our Community Mentors met her, listened to her story and connected her with our programme. Today, Catherine is back in school with dreams of becoming a teacher.

“When someone believes in you, everything changes.” Eva, 15

At just 12, Eva faced an unimaginable reality. During the COVID lockdowns, her family struggled to survive. Left with no alternatives, she turned to sex work to help provide food for her younger siblings. Her childhood dreams seemed shattered.

That all changed when one of our Community Mentors stepped in. They listened to her story and provided the support she needed to reimagine her future. With their guidance, Eva joined our education programme.

Today, she’s back in school, gaining the skills and confidence to rebuild her life. This is the power of believing in someone.

Education for all

99 children (58 girls/41 boys) continue to be supported through school via our long-running education programme. This year we celebrated 12 children graduating from secondary school.

We are deeply grateful for our supporters’ belief in the potential of girls and the impact of education and skills training. It takes time and commitment to see real, lasting change. With your generosity, girls like Daphine and Kevin (stories below) are transforming their lives and are now inspiring others to believe in their own potential.

The girls (and boys!) you support show determination and resilience, overcoming many challenges to stay in school. They not only achieve academically but also grow into confident, self-reliant young women who serve as role models in their communities.

Now 21, Daphine’s story is a powerful example of the transformative impact of education and your support. Despite countless challenges, she has remained focused on her goal of becoming a science teacher, defying gender stereotypes and inspiring others along the way.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

''It gives me joy when I'm teaching my fellow students new concepts… I know many students face challenges, so if you teach, you can also act as a counsellor or mentor to change some students’ lives,”

Daphine stands out in a community where girls’ education often takes a backseat. Even for those fortunate enough to attend school, girls are frequently discouraged from pursuing STEM subjects.

With Awamu’s support, Daphine has defied these norms and gained the confidence to follow her dreams:

“Where I live, it’s a struggle for a girl to get an education. Families don’t have the money for school, and if they do, girls aren’t the priority. And if girls get to school, they’re told they can’t do science. But Awamu gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams ”.

Beyond academics, Daphine is also a peer counsellor and a volunteer community mentor in training, supporting other girls in our education programme. Her aunt, Sarah—also an Awamu community volunteer - raised Daphine alongside four other orphaned children. Despite facing her own struggles, she’s been able to provide a loving home for them all.

“She used to come home sad, without hope… but now, she works hard, she’s confident and she’s able to provide for us” Daphine shares.

Thanks to the support and skills she gained through Awamu’s income generation training programme, Sarah is now building a new home for her family away from the slums - something she never thought possible.

“Awamu has given our family a future. I thank everyone for supporting me.” Daphine.

Kevin’s Journey: From Student to Teacher

Kevin’s dream was to become a teacher, and thanks to your support, she’s now on the verge of realising it. Kevin is about to graduate as a fully qualified teacher and recently completed her teaching training internship at her former school in Bwaise, where she taught entrepreneurship and computer literacy to senior students (skills learnt through your support).

Our vocational training played a critical role in Kevin’s life. The tailoring skills she gained through Awamu’s programme not only helped her stay in secondary school but also helped her support herself through university.

“This is my dream from when I first joined the Awamu programme. Now I am really there,” Kevin says.

Kevin is also an integral part of a new education program, supporting out-of-school girls aged 10–15, including child mothers and survivors of violence, to complete their education. She helps these girls transition into formal schooling, acting as a mentor and role model.

“I’m so proud to be able to do this for girls in my community. I was once one of those girls being supported by Awamu, now I am able to give back through my job. Support from Awamu changed my life. They gave me the tools to stand on my own and strive for my dream to become a teacher.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

“My main message for girls I work with is that you must believe good things are coming. No matter what has happened. My aim is to make sure girls believe in themselves because I know you can achieve anything if you have confidence in yourself, and you get a little support from Awamu ” Kevin.

Shift the power

One of Awamu’s key strategic goals is to shift the power to its long-term grassroots partner, Tusitukirewamu Group Bwaise (TWG). Over the past year, strides have been made to strengthen their capacity and secure its long-term independence and sustainability. With your support, TWG has:

With this support TWG secured a grant of approximately $65,000 for a large-scale advocacy project to support local schools in partnering with healthcare facilities, providing girl-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, and educating communities about girls' safeguarding rights.

This progress reaffirms our commitment to the belief that the power and the money belong with the people living the solution. We remain dedicated to supporting TWG as they continue to strengthen their systems and capacity in resource mobilisation - ensuring lasting impact and a bright future for the communities we serve together.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Fundraising performance

Some key fundraising activities were:

We want to give special thanks to L’Oreal Fund For Women and L’Oreal UK (CPD & friends and family of Nansamba), Allan and Nesta Ferguson Charitable Trust, Ashworth Trust, Austin Bailey Foundation, Big Give Trust, Bryan Guinness Charitable Trust, Carmela and Ronnie Pignatelli Foundation, Casey Trust, CB & HH Taylor Charitable Trust, Coles Medlock Foundation, Community of the Presentation, Eleanor Rathbone Charitable Trust, Evan Cornish Foundation, Farthing Trust, Fresh Leaf Charitable Foundation, Gilchrist Education Trust, Heb Ffin, Hilden Charitable Fund, Oakdale Trust, Panram Trust, Pat Newman Trust, SE Franklin Charity, SMB Trust, Souter Trust, Strathspey Charitable Trust and two trust who wished to remain anonymous plus all the many individuals who have made it possible to provide life changing services to vulnerable girls.

Events

The income from Together Festival 2023 falls into this year under review. The event is housed within Together Festival Limited (09919482) and profits are then donated over to Awamu in the following weeks once income and expenditure is finalised. Awamu holds 100% of the shares directly and Together is its formal trading subsidiary.

Financial review

For 2023-24, our total income was £166,747, approximately £63,000 lower than our record income of 2023. A large part of the difference is due to the delayed receipt of a trust donation of 40,000 euros, which arrived three months later than agreed and in the subsequent financial year. It is important to acknowledge that in 2023 we received our largest grant to date, 150,000 euros, which spiked our income. Although we aimed to sustain that level in the current challenging climate, the reality was that our income naturally reverted to a lower level. Nevertheless, we remain on a growth trajectory and are committed to our ambitious goals for impact, as we continue to diversify our funding sources and build long-term sustainability.

Expenditure on charitable activities was £171,690 (which accounts for more than 92% of total expenditure). Expenditure on raising funds increased to £14,444 (which accounts for 8% of total expenditure) as we bolstered our efforts in a challenging climate. Our expenditure includes costs associated with governance and overheads which includes essential functions such as managing the finances and adhering to our statutory obligations. Support and governance costs fell year on year by 37%.

The Charity’s trustees receive no remuneration or benefit for their work as trustees.

Reserves policy

We aim to maintain reserves equivalent to at least three months' worth of running costs to ensure that our core activities can continue in the event of a need to wind up operations or an unforeseen, significant, and temporary shortfall in income or cash flow. As of the year-end, our total reserves are £63,433, consisting of £1,445 in designated funds allocated for specific purposes within our operations, and £61,988 in unrestricted funds.

The reserves policies are reviewed by the trustees on an ongoing basis and the trustees will continue to monitor the reserves position closely. The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, and as noted previously are focused on ensuring that a wide range of funding options are available to the organisation, mitigating its reliance on particular income streams that might suffer a reduction for one reason or another.

Regular review and auditing of our strategic partners in project delivery is undertaken, mitigating exposure on that front so far as is possible.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Major risks

Governance and risk management

Our board and management team ensure compliance with our governing documents, meeting regularly to monitor risks from global economic pressures and local challenges, adapting strategies as necessary. Our trustees work closely with the management teams and boards of our partner organisations, offering guidance and expertise to support programme delivery and strengthen operational processes. This collaborative approach underlines our commitment to building our partners’ capacity, so they become independent and sustainable organisations.

Plans for future periods

Looking ahead: Our Strategic Vision and Call to Action

Our targets for 2024–25 have been realigned to amplify our impact and deepen the sustainability of our partners. We are focused on scaling our programmes, strengthening partnerships, and building lasting resilience in the communities we serve.

In the coming year, we will:

Acknowledgements and partnerships

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a registered charity (Registration Number 1174256) and a company limited by guarantee (Registration Number 07818944), originally incorporated on 21 October 2011.

On the 14 August 2017, Awamu converted from a Community Interest Company (CIC) to a registered charity.

The charity is controlled by its governing document. The policy and operating decisions of the charity rest with the Trustees who meet at least quarterly (more during the developments of the strategic plan and implementation of new projects) to monitor the activities of the charity. Trustees meet to discuss the progress of the organisation, strategic and financial decisions and plan for the future.

New trustees are recruited and appointed by a majority of existing trustees.

The trustees, who are also the directors for the purpose of company law, and who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were:

W Teuna Van Rijn J Rugambwa J Baker Nabwire M Dennis

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Recruitment and appointment of trustees

Trustees are appointed with a view to ensuring that Awamu has a variety of experience including international development, business management, finance and fundraising. Periodically, we undertake a skills audit to identify areas where additional experience would be useful; the results of this exercise influence the appointment of new trustees. The board in consultation with the management undertakes the appointment of new trustees. All new trustees are provided with a comprehensive induction information pack and other relevant training so as to ensure that all trustees have an appropriate understanding of our responsibilities and the background to the current activities and key management issues of the organisation. They are also given the opportunity to visit programmes in Uganda and take part in UK based activities.

None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the company. All of the trustees are members of the company and guarantee to contribute £1 in the event of a winding up.

Qualifying third party indemnity provisions

The Board meets at least four times a year and is responsible for the overall direction of the charity and for core strategic policies, having regard to the advice of the trustees and other stakeholders including our partners and beneficiaries.

Where appropriate, we establish additional smaller committees whose membership is constituted of selected trustees with delegated authority from the full board to undertake detailed reviews, analysis or policy or programme development in conjunction with members of the management team and to report back findings and recommendations to the full board.

Organisational structure

The management team leader responsible for the day to day running of the organisation is Emma Scullion (CEO).

Awamu is based in the United Kingdom in London, and we have a long-term partner in Uganda – Tusitukirewamu (TWG), where projects are implemented.

The management team leader is responsible for the day to day running of the charity within the framework of clearly delegated powers and responsibilities agreed by the trustees. Strategic direction, operational plans and budgets are discussed and prepared jointly with the management team leader, partners in Uganda and the trustees.

Additionally, decisions of a strategic nature are discussed with the trustees to agree on actions and to shape and direct management thinking.

Our partner organisation is a locally registered NGO operated and managed by their own boards. We share a common vision, mission and values as well as a commitment to adhering to mutually agreed policies and operating procedures. The senior management of Awamu and our partner operate as an ‘International Management Team’, meeting weekly to review progress and other matters arising.

These close relationships are an effective conduit for ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of programmes that meet the Charity's objectives, the trustees' and management's strategy.

This report provides full information about Awamu’s aims, activities and achievements. We consider that this information demonstrates the clear benefits to our beneficiaries (and through them to wider sections of the public in Uganda, Africa) arising from our work.

AWAMU

TRUSTEES' REPORT (INCLUDING DIRECTORS' REPORT) (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees.

M Dennis Trustee

27 March 2025

AWAMU

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF AWAMU

We report to the trustees on our examination of the financial statements of Awamu (the charity) for the year ended 30 June 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the charity (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (the 2006 Act).

Having satisfied ourselves that the financial statements of the charity are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, we report in respect of our examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act). In carrying out our examination we have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

We have completed our examination. We confirm that no matters have come to our attention in connection with the examination giving us cause to believe that in any material respect:

We 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.

Lee, Dicketts & Co dwt

3 East Point High Street Seal Sevenoaks Kent TN15 0EG

Dated: 27 March 2025

AWAMU

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Current financial year
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
funds
general
designated
2024
2024
2024
Notes
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
2
69,355
-
-
Charitable activities
3
59,265
37,949
-
Investments
4
178
-
-
Total income
128,798
37,949
-
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
5
14,444
-
-
Charitable activities
6
33,639
133,651
4,400
Total expenditure
48,083
133,651
4,400
Net income/(expenditure)
80,715
(95,702)
(4,400)
Transfers between funds
(29,234)
29,234
-
Net movement in funds
51,481
(66,468)
(4,400)
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 July 2023
10,507
67,913
4,400
Fund balances at 30 June 2024
61,988
1,445
-		 Total
2024
£
69,355
97,214
178
166,747
14,444
171,690
186,134
(19,387)
-
(19,387)
82,820
63,433		 Total
2023
£
79,376
150,439
164
229,979
9,957
144,874
154,831
75,148
-
75,148
7,672
82,820

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

AWAMU

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (CONTINUED) INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Prior financial year
Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
funds
general
designated
2023
2023
2023
Notes
£
£
£
Income from:
Donations and legacies
2
65,249
14,127
-
Charitable activities
3
7,049
133,390
10,000
Investments
4
164
-
-
Total income
72,462
147,517
10,000
Expenditure on:
Raising funds
5
9,957
-
-
Charitable activities
6
55,335
83,939
5,600
Total expenditure
65,292
83,939
5,600
Net income and movement in funds
7,170
63,578
4,400
Reconciliation of funds:
Fund balances at 1 July 2022
3,337
4,335
-
Fund balances at 30 June 2023
10,507
67,913
4,400		 Total
2023
£
79,376
150,439
164
229,979
9,957
144,874
154,831
75,148
7,672
82,820

AWAMU

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

AS AT 30 JUNE 2024

2024 2023
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Investments 13 100 100
Current assets
Stocks 14 625 625
Cash at bank and in hand 63,218 86,266
63,843 86,891
Creditors: amounts falling due within 15
one year (510) (4,171)
Net current assets 63,333 82,720
Total assets less current liabilities 63,433 82,820
Net assets excluding pension liability 63,433 82,820
The funds of the charity
Restricted income funds 16 - 4,400
Unrestricted funds - general 61,988 10,507
Unrestricted funds - designated 17 1,445 67,913
63,433 82,820

The company is entitled to the exemption from the audit requirement contained in section 477 of the Companies Act 2006, for the year ended 30 June 2024.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 with respect to accounting records and the preparation of financial statements.

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies regime.

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 27 March 2025

M Dennis Trustee

Company registration number 07818944 (England and Wales)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

AWAMU

1 Accounting policies

Charity information

Awamu is a private company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. The registered office is 3 East Point, High Street, Seal, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0EG.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Companies Act 2006 and "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) (effective 1 January 2019)". The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.

The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.

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.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives unless the funds have been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise funds which have been set aside at the discretion of the trustees for specific purposes. The purposes and uses of the designated funds are set out in notes to the financial statements.

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors 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.

1.4 Incoming resources

Income 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.

Turnover is measured at the point of receipt of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods provided in the normal course of business.

1.5 Resources expended

The accruals basis is applied to all expenditure.

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

1 Accounting policies

(Continued)

Expenditure has been allocated according to the Statement of Recommended Practice "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" and is shown under the appropriate sub-heading. Items of expenditure which involve more than one charitable activity, are allocated appropriately between the charitable activities involved on the basis of estimates made by the charity's management.

1.6 Fixed asset investments

Fixed asset investments are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. The investments are assessed for impairment at each reporting date and any impairment losses or reversals of impairment losses are recognised immediately in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

A subsidiary is an entity controlled by the charity. Control is the power to govern the financial and operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities.

1.7 Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labour costs.

Net realisable value is the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling and distribution.

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.

2 Income from donations and legacies

Unrestricted Unrestricted Total Unrestricted Unrestricted Total
funds funds funds funds
general designated general designated
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £
Donations and gifts 69,355 - 69,355 65,249 14,127 79,376

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

3 Income from charitable activities

Unrestricted Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
funds
general designated
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
Charitable activities
Sale of goods
-
-
-
Grants receivable for charitable activities
59,265
37,949
-
59,265
37,949
-		 Total
Unrestricted Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
funds
general
designated
2024
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
-
49
-
-
97,214
7,000
133,390
10,000
97,214
7,049
133,390
10,000		 Total
2023
£
49
150,390
150,439

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

4 Income from investments

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Interest receivable 178 164

5 Expenditure on raising funds

Unrestricted Unrestricted
funds funds
2024 2023
£ £
Fundraising and publicity
Seeking donations, grants and legacies 14,228 9,705
Other fundraising costs 216 242
14,444 9,947
Trading costs
Other trading activities - 10
Total costs 14,444 9,957

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

6 Expenditure on charitable activities

Education
2024
£
Direct costs
Project costs
54
Grant funding of activities (see note 8)
121,401
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
2,258
Governance
759
124,472
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
30,867
Unrestricted funds - designated
93,605
Restricted funds
-
124,472		 Health
Capacity
building and
training
2024
2024
£
£
-
-
44,446
-
827
1,667
278
-
45,551
1,667
1,105
1,667
40,046
-
4,400
-
45,551
1,667		 Total
2024
£
54
165,847
4,752
1,037
171,690
33,639
133,651
4,400
171,690

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Expenditure on charitable activities
Previous year:
Education
2023
£
Direct costs
Project costs
1,261
Grant funding of activities (see note 8)
107,923
Share of support and governance costs (see note 9)
Support
1,125
Governance
410
110,719
Analysis by fund
Unrestricted funds - general
48,363
Unrestricted funds - designated
62,356
Restricted funds
-
110,719		 (Continued)
Health
Economic
development
Emergency
response
Capacity
building and
training
Total
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
1,261
26,133
-
78
-
134,134
191
82
1
7,570
8,969
70
30
-
-
510
26,394
112
79
7,570
144,874
411
112
79
6,370
55,335
21,583
-
-
-
83,939
4,400
-
-
1,200
5,600
26,394
112
79
7,570
144,874		 (Continued)
Health
Economic
development
Emergency
response
Capacity
building and
training
Total
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
£
£
£
£
£
-
-
-
-
1,261
26,133
-
78
-
134,134
191
82
1
7,570
8,969
70
30
-
-
510
26,394
112
79
7,570
144,874
411
112
79
6,370
55,335
21,583
-
-
-
83,939
4,400
-
-
1,200
5,600
26,394
112
79
7,570
144,874
144,874
55,335
83,939
5,600
144,874

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

7 Description of charitable activities

Education

Education support is provided to allow vulnerable children to go to school. Support includes our ‘catch-up education programme fast tracking out of school girls (especially child mothers and survivors of sexual violence) into mainstream education and paying tuition fees, providing uniforms and materials to go to school and supporting the work of trained child counselors to monitor, mentor and support children and caregivers.

Health

Support within the community for health activities includes the work of Community Volunteers who help orphaned, abandoned or abused children. They help vulnerable adults and children with referrals for HIV testing and access to ARTs, family planning, counseling sessions and support groups. The provision of girl friendly sexual reproductive health through inclusive drop in clinics for partners’ offices. Community health outreaches - taking health workers and counselors into target areas of the community and local schools.

Economic development

Economic development activities include skills training for vulnerable girls (especially child mothers and those who have experienced sexual violence) as well as guardians.

There is real success amongst being part of this skills training programme allowing guardians to start saving money for their and their dependents futures, together with passing on these shared skills within the community to help all find a way out of poverty.

Emergency response

Help is provided in local emergency situations. This small fund provides emergency responses for destitute families in our communities where situations arise either from natural disasters or violence which may lead to a family losing their processions or children left orphaned and destitute. Replacement of clothing, bedding and food or medical assistance may be provided. Trauma support counseling can be offered together with introduction to our education or skills training programme.

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

8 Grants payable

Grants payable
Education Health Total Education **Health ** Emergency Total
response
2024 2024 2024 2023 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £ £ £ £
Grants to institutions (5 grants):
TWG 121,401 44,446 165,847 107,923 26,133 78 134,134

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

8 Grants payable

(Continued)

Our long-term partner in Uganda –Tusitukirewamu (TWG) is a Uganda registered NGO (Reg no. INDR154764515NB).

-

9 Support costs allocated to activities

Fundraising
Education
Health
Capacity
building and
training
2024
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
£
Consultancy
-
366
134
1,595
Computer and
website
-
625
229
-
Bank and
PayPal fees
-
73
27
-
Travel expenses
-
862
315
72
Office costs
-
287
105
-
Sundry
expenses
-
45
17
-
Governance
228
759
278
-
228
3,017
1,105
1,667
Governance costs comprise:
Accountancy
Legal and professional		 Total
2024
£
2,095
854
100
1,249
392
62
1,265
6,017
2024
£
660
605
1,265		 Total
2023
£
7,570
654
163
-
569
13
560
9,529
2023
£
510
50
560

10 Trustees

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

11 Employees

The average monthly number of employees during the year was:

2024 2023
Number Number
Total - -

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

11 Employees

(Continued)

There were no employees whose annual remuneration was more than £60,000.

12 Taxation

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

13 Fixed asset investments

Cost or valuation
At 1 July 2023 & 30 June 2024
Carrying amount
At 30 June 2024
At 30 June 2023
Other investments comprise:
Notes
Investments in subsidiaries
20
14
Stocks
Raw materials and consumables
Finished goods and goods for resale
15
Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings
Accruals and deferred income		 Other
investments
£
100
100
100
2024
2023
£
£
100
100
2024
2023
£
£
275
275
350
350
625
625
2024
2023
£
£
-
3,661
510
510
510
4,171		 Other
investments
£
100
100
100
2024
2023
£
£
100
100
2024
2023
£
£
275
275
350
350
625
625
2024
2023
£
£
-
3,661
510
510
510
4,171
100
100
2023
£
100
2023
£
275
350
625
2023
£
3,661
510
4,171

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

16 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 July 2023 Incoming Resources At 30 June
resources expended 2024
£ £ £ £
Nansamba Safe Haven fund 4,400 - (4,400) -
Previous year: At 1 July 2022 Incoming Resources At 30 June
resources expended 2023
£ £ £ £
Nansamba Safe Haven fund - 10,000 (5,600) 4,400

The charity maintains a general unrestricted fund which represents funds which are expendable at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the objects of the charity. Restricted funds have been provided to the charity for particular purposes and may only be spent for the purposes for which they were given.

In this case the funds were given by trusts as follows:

Year-ended 30 June 2023

Waterloo Foundation - £10,000 towards funding for access to girl friendly sexual reproductive healthcare including emergency post-rape care and support including DNA swabs, emergency medical care, trauma recovery support/counselling. The grant covers a two year period.

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

17 Unrestricted funds - designated

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 July 2023
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
At
£
£
£
£
Donation income - education
and vocational skills training
2,890
-
(1,445)
-
Catch up schools
34,980
23,949
(92,160)
33,231
Safe Haven fund
30,043
14,000
(40,046)
(3,997)
67,913
37,949
(133,651)
29,234
Previous year:
At 1 July 2022
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Transfers
At
£
£
£
£
Donation income - education
and vocational skills training
4,335
-
(1,445)
-
Catch up schools
-
95,890
(60,910)
-
Safe Haven fund
-
51,627
(21,584)
-
4,335
147,517
(83,939)
-		 30 June
2024
£
1,445
-
-
1,445
30 June
2023
£
2,890
34,980
30,043
67,913

Designated funds comprise:

Education fund : for supporting vulnerable children (especially girls - child mothers and survivors of sexual violence) to integrate into mainstream school to complete their education and access to girl friendly sexual reproductive healthcare and emotional support.

Nansamba Safe Haven fund : for our refuge (safe house) for girls escaping violence, economic empowerment (skills/business training centre) and access to girl friendly sexual reproductive healthcare including emergency post-rape care and support including DNA swabs, emergency medical care, trauma recovery support/counselling, plus help to access legal aid and support with reporting crimes to the police.

18 Analysis of net assets between funds

Unrestricted
Unrestricted
Restricted
funds
funds
funds
general
designated
2024
2024
2024
£
£
£
At 30 June 2024:
Investments
100
-
-
Current assets/(liabilities)
61,888
1,445
-
61,988
1,445
-		 Total
2024
£
100
63,333
63,433

AWAMU

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024

Analysis of net assets between funds (Continued)
Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds
general designated
2023 2023 2023 2023
£ £ £ £
At 30 June 2023:
Investments 100 - - 100
Current assets/(liabilities) 10,407 67,913 4,400 82,720
10,507 67,913 4,400 82,820

18 Analysis of net assets between funds

19 Related party transactions

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2023 - none) however the trustees draw attention to the income received from it's trading subsidiary Together Festival Limited as detailed in the Trustees' Report.

20 Subsidiaries

These financial statements are separate charity financial statements for Awamu.

Details of the charity's subsidiaries at 30 June 2024 are as follows:

Name of undertaking Registered Nature of business Class of % Held
office shares held Direct Indirect
Together Festival Limited England & Wales Music festival Ordinary 100.00
shares