## **SPARKS CARDIFF CHARITABLE TRUST ANNUAL RETURN 2024** 

**Charity Registration Number:** 1174363 **Financial Year:** 1st April 2022 – 31st March 2023 

## **Trustees’ Annual Report** 

## **Introduction** 

Sparks Cardiff Charitable Trust is dedicated to fostering community spirit and supporting those in need, particularly during the festive season. Our key activities include hosting Santa sleigh events to bring joy to local children and organising a Christmas dinner for elderly individuals who would otherwise be alone during the holiday period. 

## **Objectives and Activities** 

The primary objective of Sparks Cardiff Charitable Trust is to provide festive events that foster social inclusion and combat loneliness. Our activities in 2024 included: 

- **Santa Sleigh Events** – Organising community visits with Santa and his sleigh to bring joy and festive cheer to families across Cardiff. 

- **Christmas Dinner for the Elderly** – Hosting a warm and welcoming dinner for elderly individuals who might otherwise spend Christmas alone, ensuring they experience companionship and festive cheer. 

These activities align with our charitable purpose of enhancing social well-being and reducing loneliness. 

## **Achievements and Performance** 

In 2024, we successfully: 

- Hosted Santa sleigh events, engaging with hundreds of children and their families. 

- • Provided a Christmas meal for over 60 elderly individuals, ensuring they had a memorable and joyful holiday experience. 

- Increased community engagement through local volunteers and supporters. 

We received positive feedback from attendees, volunteers, and community members, affirming the impact of our work. 

## **Financial Statements** 

## **Income and Expenditure for the Year Ending 31st March 2023** 

**Category Amount (£)** 

**Income:** 

Charitable Donations 7,000 



**Total Income** 7,000 **Expenditure:** Charitable Activities 5,590 Fundraising Expenses 400 **Total Expenditure** 5,990 **Surplus** 1010 

## **Financial Forecast for 2024** 

**Category Projected Amount (£) Income:** Charitable Donations 5,000 **Total Income** 5,000 **Expenditure:** Charitable Activities 2,000 Fundraising Expenses 500 **Total Expenditure** 3,100 **Projected Surplus** 2500 

## **Reserves Policy** 

The Trustees aim to maintain sufficient reserves to cover at least one year’s operational costs to ensure financial sustainability. The surplus of £1,500 from 2024 will be retained for future charitable activities. 

## **Structure, Governance, and Management** 

Sparks Cardiff Charitable Trust operates as a registered charity in the UK and is managed by a board of trustees. The trustees oversee all activities, ensuring compliance with the Charity Commission’s regulations and best practices in financial management and governance. 

## **Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities** 

The trustees are responsible for preparing and approving the annual financial statements, ensuring proper accounting records are maintained, and safeguarding the assets of the charity. 

Signed on behalf of the Trustees: 



**Jason Ford Trustee Date: 9th December 2024** 

**Jeff Barry Trustee Date: 9th December 2024**