2023
Annual Report
rf ip411,14t.'
11
11
stepping
stones •
## Table of Contents
1
## **OVERVIEW AND INTRODUCTION FROM OUR CHAIR OF TRUSTEES**
2
## **REPORT FROM OUR TREASURER**
3
**REPORT FROM OUR OPERATIONS MANAGER**
## **ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS**
**==> picture [596 x 251] intentionally omitted <==**
4
## Overview
**Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a charity that provides meaningful and worthwhile activities by listening to, learning from, and working with adults with learning disabilities.**
**Our weekly programme of activities includes art, drama, dance, and music. People who attend Stepping Stones can learn new skills, share experiences and broaden their horizons.**
**Activities are delivered at a community centre, but we also work off site in partnership with other organisations in the area.**
## Introduction from our Chair of Trustees
## **COME AND JOIN US was the theme of 2023**
This year has shown more than ever, how much our students love to be together, to learn, see their friends and have fun. Most of them would be less fulfilled and lonelier without Stepping Stones.
And more students came! More sessions were delivered this year, building on increases in 2022, but most importantly, more people were invited to try us out, liked what they saw and how they felt, and were welcomed into our vibrant community.
The culmination of the classes is the Summer Show, with the audience relishing every moment and enjoying the pride the students take in their production and their artistic exhibition. Plus, everyone loves the after party.
For me, maybe my favourite event, is the Christmas Party, where we all get the chance to dance as though no one is looking…
Many thanks to our funders and supporters; our families and carers and to our indomitable, energetic staff who create a wonderful atmosphere week in, week out. Stepping Stones is a good thing because we all contribute to it. Let’s keep doing it!
And to our wonderful students I say, continue to dance, move, act, sing, play, paint and garden to your heart’s content. We are right behind you.
Lynn Bransby, Chair of Trustees
## report from our treasurer Report from our Treasurer
## **INCOME**
During this fiscal year, our charity received a total income of £35,489 which compares to £100,614 in 2022.
Our primary sources of income as in previous years were:
1. **Donations:** Generous foundations, charities and businesses provided funding totalling £8,624 to support our work. It should be noted that an award of £30,000 from Terra Firma Charitable Trust was granted in 2022 and was included in last year’s accounts but relates to the provision of services during 2023.
2. **Grants:** We received £16,500 from Southwark Adult Learning Services during the year. This is based on the number of unique users of our services.
3. **Subscriptions:** Users of our services pay a nominal fee for attendance and income from this source during the year was £10,100.
## **EXPENDITURE**
Our charity incurred total expenses of £65,590 during the 202 3 financial year� compared to £63,943 in 2022.
The major expense categories were:
1. **Salaries and tutors fees:** Our major expenses during the year, at £57,563� relate to the salary for our operational manager and the fees paid to our� tutors, all of whom work tirelessly to provide outstanding services to our� users.
2. **Activity-related expenses:** Administrative costs relating to hall hire and other activity-related and office expenses were £8,027 during the year.�
3. **Governance Costs:** Costs including accountancy fees and insurance were £1,704 for 202 3
## **FINANCIAL HEALTH**
We are pleased to report that our charity remains financially stable. Our current assets as of 31 December 2023 stand at £95,068 which is held in cash at bank in current and reserves accounts. The trustees continue to monitor our financial position carefully to ensure that, as a charity, we have a secure future ahead of us. We remain prepared for the unexpected through maintaining a healthy reserve fund while ensuring we are meeting our obligations to our funders to make full use of the resources made available to us.
Our accounts are independently examined annually by our accountants, Gibson’s Financial Limited, and their separate report containing more detailed financial information is available and filed on the charity commission website.
We look forward to your continued support as we work to further develop our services during the coming year
Jennifer Walmsley, Treasurer
**==> picture [472 x 307] intentionally omitted <==**
## Report from our Operations Manager
## **ACTIVITIES AT THE CENTRE**
## **ACTIVITIES OFF SITE**
During this year we delivered a full programme of 9 weekly activities. Our established mix of activities continues to provide space for people with a broad range of interests, skills and needs.
Our talented and passionate tutors and volunteers create a warm, welcoming and familiar space where people can learn new skills, share experiences and access a platform where they can be seen, heard and express themselves.
Through our partnership activities we delivered 3 additional weekly activities and over 60 sessions across the year to a wider community.
Offsite delivery includes gardening, art classes at a local day centre, and weekly music classes at a residential home.
Working collaboratively with other organisations has enabled us to share skills and best practice, and extend our total reach to over 100 people.
**==> picture [180 x 148] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [179 x 147] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [178 x 148] intentionally omitted <==**
**We listened to, learned from, and worked with the people who attend Stepping Stones to create new spaces for connection. During 2023 we have increased our delivery, welcomed new people and launched new activities.** 340 680 101
**sessions delivered 16% increase from 2022**
**activity hours 17% increase from 2022**
**service users 12% increase from 2022**
## **BEING TOGETHER**
In the responses to our 2022 survey we could clearly see a need and interest for more opportunities for socialising. During this year we have begun to meet this need by adding new activities to our timetable, and enhancing existing provision.
**==> picture [102 x 83] intentionally omitted <==**
We launched a weekly lunch group to continue our development of additional social opportunities. This drop in session creates a relaxed and familiar space for people to spend time together before their class. It has proved to be a popular and well attended session where people have shared experiences and thoughts, along with many cups of tea.
Through our digital skills group we have continued to provide additional support to people who live independently. In 2023 this has taken us out of the centre by using digital skills to plan local outings and shopping trips. We welcomed two new members in September and the group has grown to be a space of support for each other, a place to share and solve problems, and a source of insight and learning for the organisation.
**==> picture [95 x 95] intentionally omitted <==**
## **SEASIDE OUTING**
We enjoyed an end of the summer trip to Littlehampton before the classes started back in September. This was a great opportunity to get together in a different environment, enjoy the seaside views, and share the experience as part of a group.
**==> picture [96 x 181] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [263 x 181] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [107 x 181] intentionally omitted <==**
## **A SPECTACULAR SUMMER SHOW**
Our annual summer show is an opportunity to share the Stepping Stones experience with a supportive audience of family, friends, carers and supporters.
The title and theme of the show this year was _One Moment in Time - when we are more than we thought we could be..._
**==> picture [132 x 208] intentionally omitted <==**
Friday 14th July 2023 was indeed a spectacular moment in time that represented many hours and days creating, learning and practising together.
We congratulate the performers and contributors for their incredible skills and talents and can’t wait to see what you have planned for 2024!
**==> picture [126 x 175] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [209 x 175] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [127 x 175] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [485 x 258] intentionally omitted <==**
**Catriona Finlayson, Operations Manager**
## **PICTURES FROM A SENSATIONAL YEAR**
**==> picture [171 x 116] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [170 x 114] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [170 x 114] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [167 x 241] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [169 x 116] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [172 x 115] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [170 x 113] intentionally omitted <==**
## **END OF YEAR PARTY**
Our Christmas Party was a festive, funfilled and joyful afternoon.
Guests enjoyed crafts, lunch, dancing and games. **END OF THE YEAR**
**PARTY TIME** Huge thanks to everyone who supported this special day - we finished the year off in style!
**==> picture [173 x 116] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [172 x 114] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [170 x 113] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [170 x 115] intentionally omitted <==**
**==> picture [172 x 114] intentionally omitted <==**
## **Acknowledgements**
**The Terra Firma Charitable Committee awarded Stepping Stones a substantial donation at the end of 2022 which has funded much of our activity in 2023. Enormous thanks to the committee for providing this security, and the encouragment and enthusiasm for our work. We also gratefully acknowledge further funding received during the year from Southwark Adult Learning Service, Peter Minet Trust and Southwark Neighbourhood Fund. On behalf of everyone at Stepping Stones, we extend huge thanks to the funders who have supported us this year and in recent years. You have all contributed to our current stability and given us the vital opportunity to continue developing and delivering our services.**
Our tutors and volunteers have continued to deliver responsive, engaging and life enhancing opportunities to an increasing number of people with creativity and care. The organisation has been supported by a committed and hard working board of trustees who ensure we pursue activities in the best interests of the people who attend Stepping Stones.
All of our activities have benefitted from the network of support and encouragement provided by carers, support workers, family and friends. Thank you for your support and contributions to our classes and our community.
**And finally, the people who come to Stepping Stones. Thank you for all that you bring to our community.You make it all worthwhile.**
## **THANK YOU**
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure St Faiths Community Centre Redpost Hill London SE24 9JQ
07950 612 914
www.steppingstoneslearning.org.uk info@steppingstoneslearning.org.uk
**==> picture [170 x 170] intentionally omitted <==**
Registered Charity Number: 1174850
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE**
## **(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **Registered Charity Number 1174850**
**Gibsons Financial Limited Chartered Accountants Foresters Hall 25-27 Westow Street London SE19 3RY**
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
**YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **CONTENTS**
## **PAGES**
|Administrative Information|2|
|---|---|
|Executive Committee & Trustees Report|3|
|Independent Examiners Report|4|
|Statement of Financial Activities|5|
|Balance Sheet|6|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|7|
|Detailed Income and Expenditure|9|
1
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023**
|**REGISTRATION DETAILS**|Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a charitable|
|---|---|
||incorporated organisation (CIO) under charity number|
||1174850.|
|**GOVERNING DOCUMENT**|Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is governed by the|
||Charities Act 2011 and its constitution.|
|**EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE**|Lynn Bransby – Chair|
||Terence Baldwin – Secretary|
||Gillian Kerr – Member (resigned 11/06/2023)|
||Sally Reid - User Representative|
||Jennifer Walmsley – Treasurer|
||Julia Barbosa – Member|
||David Keaveney-Sheath – Member|
||Avery Benton – Member|
||Gemela Desouza – Member (removed 28/11/2023)|
|**PRINCIPAL ADDRESS OF CHARITY**|St Faith’s Community Centre|
||Red Post Hill|
||Herne Hill|
||London|
||SE24 9JQ|
|**ACCOUNTANTS**|Gibsons Financial Limited|
||Chartered Accountants|
||Foresters Hall|
||25-27 Westow Street|
||London SE19 3RY|
|**BANKERS**|Lloyds TSB Plc|
||12 Croxted Road|
||London|
||SE21 8SP|
2
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND TRUSTEES REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
The Executive Committee of Stepping Stones Leaning and Leisure present their Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2023.
## **PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY**
The principal activity of the charity is to help adults with learning disabilities to help themselves.
In planning our activities for the year we kept in mind the Charity Commissioner’s guidance on public benefit at our trustee meetings.
The focus of our activities is to provide a range of much needed local workshops for adults with learning disabilities, and so enabling an often neglected section of the community to work from a base where they can make new friends and build their skills. The workshops promote health and hygiene; exercise and fitness; and drama and self-development. This benefits our service users by developing their selfconfidence, social skills and life skills.
We welcome all adults with learning disabilities regardless of personal background, faith, gender or personal circumstances and we believe this philosophy of openness to all enriches everyone through the sharing of the skills, aptitudes and life experiences of our service users. The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duties under schedule 3 of The Charities Act 2011 with regard to charity commission’s guidance on public benefit.
## **ACTIVITIES, DEVELOPMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS**
See Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure’s separate Annual Report.
## **STATEMENT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES**
Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Executive Committee to prepare Financial Statements, which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing these Financial Statements, the Executive Committee are required to:-
- select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
- state whether applicable standards and statement of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the Financial Statements; and
- prepare the Financial Statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the project will continue in operation.
- Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (FRS102).
The Executive Committee are responsible for keeping proper records which disclose at any time the financial position of the project. They are also responsible for safe guarding the assets of the organisation and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
…………………………..
Lynn Bransby - Chair Date 24 July 2024
3
## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES AND MEMBERS OF STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2023, which are set out on pages 5 to 10.
## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
- examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;
- to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
## **Basis of independent examiner's report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
## **Independent examiner's statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
- to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
- to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Geoffrey C Gibbs FCA Gibsons Financial Limited Foresters Hall 25/27 Westow Street Upper Norwood London SE19 3RY
24 July 2024
4
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE**
## **(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **INCOMING RESOURCES**
|**Incoming resources from**
**generated funds:**
Voluntary Income
Other Income
**Total Incoming Resources**
**Cost of Generating Funds**
Charitable activities
Governance costs
**Total Resources Expended**
**Net Incoming Resources**
**Fund Balances brought forward**
**Fund transfer**
**Fund Balances carried forward**|**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**Total**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
5,100
20,024
25,124
92,141
10,365
-
10,365
8,473|
|---|---|
||15,465
20,024
35,489
100,614|
||-
65,590
65,590
63,943
-
1,704
1,704
1,684|
||-
67,294
67,294
65,627|
||15,465
(47,270)
(31,805)
34,987
126,174
49
126,223
91,236
(47,250)
47,250
-
-|
||94,389
29
94,418
126,223|
5
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023**
|**Current Assets**
Cash at Bank
Cash in Hand
Debtors
**Current Liabilities**
Creditors and Accruals
**Net Current Assets**
**Funds:**
Unrestricted Fund
Restricted Fund|**2023**
£
95,068
-
-
**95,068**
650
**94,418**
94,389
29
**94,418**|**2022**
£
123,567
-
7,250|
|---|---|---|
|||**130,817**|
|||4,594|
|||**126,223**|
|||126,174
49|
|||**126,223**|
The financial statements were approved by Executive Committee and Trustees on 24 July 2024 and Approved on their behalf by:
**……………………………… Lynn Bransby - Chair**
6
**STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## 1. **ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
## 1.1 **Basis of preparation of Financial Statements**
The Financial Statements are prepared under the historic cost convention and include the results of the Charity’s operations which are described in the Executive Committee’s Report and all of which are continuing.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 “The financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland”; the Statements of Recommended Practice - Charities SORP (FRS102) and; with the Charities Act 2011.
In preparing these financial statements the Trustees have taken advantage of the exemption permitted by FRS 102 in not presenting a Statement of Cash Flows.
These financial statements represent the first time that the Trustees have adopted FRS102 however the policies applied under the previous accounting framework are not materially different to FRS102 the change of reporting framework has not impacted on the charity’s Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023 or its Balance Sheet position as at that date.
## 1.2 **Incoming Resources**
- 1.2.1 Revenue grants are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities on the earlier date of when they are received or when they are receivable, unless they relate to a specific future period, in which case they are included on the Balance Sheet as deferred income to be recognised in the future accounting period.
- 1.2.2 Grants received for specific purposes are accounted for as restricted funds in the Statement of Financial Activities.
## 1.3 **Restricted Funds**
Restricted Funds are to be used for specific purposes as laid down by the donor. Expenditure, which meets these criteria is identified to the fund, together with a fair allocation of management and support costs.
## 1.4 **Unrestricted Funds**
Unrestricted Funds are donations and other income received or generated for the objects of the charity without further specified purpose and is available for general funds.
7
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## 1.5 **Financial Instruments**
The charity only enters into basic financial instrument transactions that result in the recognition of financial assets and liabilities like amounts recoverable on invoices, other debtors, amounts payable to providers of services and other accruals. Debt instruments being amounts owed to and by the charity are accounted for at the amount that is expected to be received or paid by the charity. Debt instruments receivable after more than one year are initially recorded at the present value of future cash flows and subsequently accounted for at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
## 1.6 **Cash and cash equivalents**
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and balances in bank accounts with no notice or less than three months’ notice from inception and are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value
## **2 TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION, BENEFITS AND EXPENSES**
The charity did not pay any remuneration or provide benefits to any of its Trustees during the year under review. None of the charity’s Trustees claimed expenses nor were any Trustees’ expenses met by the charity during the year.
## **3 TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES**
There were no transactions with related parties during the year. Related parties include Trustees, their close family members, their business associates, and any non-natural persons which are controlled by any of these individuals or in which they have a significant interest.
|**4 DEBTORS**
Trade Debtors
**5 CREDITORS & ACCRUALS**
Accountancy Fees
Accruals
|**2023**
**£**
7,25-
**2023**
**£**
650
2,88-
650|**2022**
**£**
7,250
**2022**
**£**
1,706
2,887
4,594|
|---|---|---|
8
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **DETAILED INCOME & EXPENDITURE**
|**Incoming resources from**
**generated funds:**
**Voluntary Income/Grants**
Southwark Adult Learning Services
Peter Minet
Donations
Terra Firma Charitable Trust
Magic Grants
Southwark Neighbourhood Fund
**Other Income**
Membership Subscriptions
Interest Receivable
**Total Incoming Resources**
**RESOURCES EXPENDED**
**Direct Charitable Expenditure**
Tutors
Salary/HMRC/Pension
Hall Hire
Office Expenses
Activity Expenses
**Governance costs**
Accountancy Fees
Insurance
Training
**TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED**|**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**Total**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
-
16,500
16,500
26,250
5,000
-
5,000
30,000
100
-
100
1,391
-
-
-
30,000
-
-
-
500
-
3,524
3,524
4,000|
|---|---|
||**5,100**
**20,024**
**25,124**
**92,141**|
||10,100
265
-
-
10,100
265
8,458
15|
||**10,365**
-
**10,365**
**8,473**|
||**15,465**
**20,024**
**35,489**
**100,614**|
||**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**Total**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
-
29,639
29,639
28,607
-
27,924
27,924
26,988
-
3,410
3,410
3,946
-
2,315
2,315
1,987
-
2,302
2,302
2,415|
||**-**
**65,590**
**65,590**
**63,943**|
||-
736
736
651
-
824
824
1,033
-
144
144
-|
||**-**
**1,704**
**1,704**
**1,684**|
|||
||**-**
**67,294**
**67,294**
**65,627**|
9
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE**
## **(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
**FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **Registered Charity Number 1174850**
**Gibsons Financial Limited Chartered Accountants Foresters Hall 25-27 Westow Street London SE19 3RY**
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
**YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **CONTENTS**
## **PAGES**
|Administrative Information|2|
|---|---|
|Executive Committee & Trustees Report|3|
|Independent Examiners Report|4|
|Statement of Financial Activities|5|
|Balance Sheet|6|
|Notes to the Financial Statements|7|
|Detailed Income and Expenditure|9|
1
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023**
|**REGISTRATION DETAILS**|Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a charitable|
|---|---|
||incorporated organisation (CIO) under charity number|
||1174850.|
|**GOVERNING DOCUMENT**|Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is governed by the|
||Charities Act 2011 and its constitution.|
|**EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE**|Lynn Bransby – Chair|
||Terence Baldwin – Secretary|
||Gillian Kerr – Member (resigned 11/06/2023)|
||Sally Reid - User Representative|
||Jennifer Walmsley – Treasurer|
||Julia Barbosa – Member|
||David Keaveney-Sheath – Member|
||Avery Benton – Member|
||Gemela Desouza – Member (removed 28/11/2023)|
|**PRINCIPAL ADDRESS OF CHARITY**|St Faith’s Community Centre|
||Red Post Hill|
||Herne Hill|
||London|
||SE24 9JQ|
|**ACCOUNTANTS**|Gibsons Financial Limited|
||Chartered Accountants|
||Foresters Hall|
||25-27 Westow Street|
||London SE19 3RY|
|**BANKERS**|Lloyds TSB Plc|
||12 Croxted Road|
||London|
||SE21 8SP|
2
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND TRUSTEES REPORT YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
The Executive Committee of Stepping Stones Leaning and Leisure present their Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2023.
## **PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY**
The principal activity of the charity is to help adults with learning disabilities to help themselves.
In planning our activities for the year we kept in mind the Charity Commissioner’s guidance on public benefit at our trustee meetings.
The focus of our activities is to provide a range of much needed local workshops for adults with learning disabilities, and so enabling an often neglected section of the community to work from a base where they can make new friends and build their skills. The workshops promote health and hygiene; exercise and fitness; and drama and self-development. This benefits our service users by developing their selfconfidence, social skills and life skills.
We welcome all adults with learning disabilities regardless of personal background, faith, gender or personal circumstances and we believe this philosophy of openness to all enriches everyone through the sharing of the skills, aptitudes and life experiences of our service users. The trustees confirm that they have complied with their duties under schedule 3 of The Charities Act 2011 with regard to charity commission’s guidance on public benefit.
## **ACTIVITIES, DEVELOPMENTS AND ACHIEVEMENTS**
See Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure’s separate Annual Report.
## **STATEMENT OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES**
Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Executive Committee to prepare Financial Statements, which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and its income and expenditure for that period. In preparing these Financial Statements, the Executive Committee are required to:-
- select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
- state whether applicable standards and statement of recommended practice have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the Financial Statements; and
- prepare the Financial Statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the project will continue in operation.
- Observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP (FRS102).
The Executive Committee are responsible for keeping proper records which disclose at any time the financial position of the project. They are also responsible for safe guarding the assets of the organisation and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
…………………………..
Lynn Bransby - Chair Date 24 July 2024
3
## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES AND MEMBERS OF STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 December 2023, which are set out on pages 5 to 10.
## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner**
The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
- examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act;
- to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and
- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
## **Basis of independent examiner's report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
## **Independent examiner's statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
- to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and
- to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Geoffrey C Gibbs FCA Gibsons Financial Limited Foresters Hall 25/27 Westow Street Upper Norwood London SE19 3RY
24 July 2024
4
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE**
## **(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **INCOMING RESOURCES**
|**Incoming resources from**
**generated funds:**
Voluntary Income
Other Income
**Total Incoming Resources**
**Cost of Generating Funds**
Charitable activities
Governance costs
**Total Resources Expended**
**Net Incoming Resources**
**Fund Balances brought forward**
**Fund transfer**
**Fund Balances carried forward**|**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**Total**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
5,100
20,024
25,124
92,141
10,365
-
10,365
8,473|
|---|---|
||15,465
20,024
35,489
100,614|
||-
65,590
65,590
63,943
-
1,704
1,704
1,684|
||-
67,294
67,294
65,627|
||15,465
(47,270)
(31,805)
34,987
126,174
49
126,223
91,236
(47,250)
47,250
-
-|
||94,389
29
94,418
126,223|
5
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023**
|**Current Assets**
Cash at Bank
Cash in Hand
Debtors
**Current Liabilities**
Creditors and Accruals
**Net Current Assets**
**Funds:**
Unrestricted Fund
Restricted Fund|**2023**
£
95,068
-
-
**95,068**
650
**94,418**
94,389
29
**94,418**|**2022**
£
123,567
-
7,250|
|---|---|---|
|||**130,817**|
|||4,594|
|||**126,223**|
|||126,174
49|
|||**126,223**|
The financial statements were approved by Executive Committee and Trustees on 24 July 2024 and Approved on their behalf by:
**……………………………… Lynn Bransby - Chair**
6
**STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## 1. **ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
## 1.1 **Basis of preparation of Financial Statements**
The Financial Statements are prepared under the historic cost convention and include the results of the Charity’s operations which are described in the Executive Committee’s Report and all of which are continuing.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 “The financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland”; the Statements of Recommended Practice - Charities SORP (FRS102) and; with the Charities Act 2011.
In preparing these financial statements the Trustees have taken advantage of the exemption permitted by FRS 102 in not presenting a Statement of Cash Flows.
These financial statements represent the first time that the Trustees have adopted FRS102 however the policies applied under the previous accounting framework are not materially different to FRS102 the change of reporting framework has not impacted on the charity’s Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2023 or its Balance Sheet position as at that date.
## 1.2 **Incoming Resources**
- 1.2.1 Revenue grants are credited to the Statement of Financial Activities on the earlier date of when they are received or when they are receivable, unless they relate to a specific future period, in which case they are included on the Balance Sheet as deferred income to be recognised in the future accounting period.
- 1.2.2 Grants received for specific purposes are accounted for as restricted funds in the Statement of Financial Activities.
## 1.3 **Restricted Funds**
Restricted Funds are to be used for specific purposes as laid down by the donor. Expenditure, which meets these criteria is identified to the fund, together with a fair allocation of management and support costs.
## 1.4 **Unrestricted Funds**
Unrestricted Funds are donations and other income received or generated for the objects of the charity without further specified purpose and is available for general funds.
7
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## 1.5 **Financial Instruments**
The charity only enters into basic financial instrument transactions that result in the recognition of financial assets and liabilities like amounts recoverable on invoices, other debtors, amounts payable to providers of services and other accruals. Debt instruments being amounts owed to and by the charity are accounted for at the amount that is expected to be received or paid by the charity. Debt instruments receivable after more than one year are initially recorded at the present value of future cash flows and subsequently accounted for at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
## 1.6 **Cash and cash equivalents**
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand and balances in bank accounts with no notice or less than three months’ notice from inception and are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value
## **2 TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION, BENEFITS AND EXPENSES**
The charity did not pay any remuneration or provide benefits to any of its Trustees during the year under review. None of the charity’s Trustees claimed expenses nor were any Trustees’ expenses met by the charity during the year.
## **3 TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES**
There were no transactions with related parties during the year. Related parties include Trustees, their close family members, their business associates, and any non-natural persons which are controlled by any of these individuals or in which they have a significant interest.
|**4 DEBTORS**
Trade Debtors
**5 CREDITORS & ACCRUALS**
Accountancy Fees
Accruals
|**2023**
**£**
7,25-
**2023**
**£**
650
2,88-
650|**2022**
**£**
7,250
**2022**
**£**
1,706
2,887
4,594|
|---|---|---|
8
## **STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)**
## **FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **DETAILED INCOME & EXPENDITURE**
|**Incoming resources from**
**generated funds:**
**Voluntary Income/Grants**
Southwark Adult Learning Services
Peter Minet
Donations
Terra Firma Charitable Trust
Magic Grants
Southwark Neighbourhood Fund
**Other Income**
Membership Subscriptions
Interest Receivable
**Total Incoming Resources**
**RESOURCES EXPENDED**
**Direct Charitable Expenditure**
Tutors
Salary/HMRC/Pension
Hall Hire
Office Expenses
Activity Expenses
**Governance costs**
Accountancy Fees
Insurance
Training
**TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED**|**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**Total**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
-
16,500
16,500
26,250
5,000
-
5,000
30,000
100
-
100
1,391
-
-
-
30,000
-
-
-
500
-
3,524
3,524
4,000|
|---|---|
||**5,100**
**20,024**
**25,124**
**92,141**|
||10,100
265
-
-
10,100
265
8,458
15|
||**10,365**
-
**10,365**
**8,473**|
||**15,465**
**20,024**
**35,489**
**100,614**|
||**Unrestricted**
**Fund**
**Restricted**
**Fund**
**Total**
**2023**
**Total**
**2022**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
-
29,639
29,639
28,607
-
27,924
27,924
26,988
-
3,410
3,410
3,946
-
2,315
2,315
1,987
-
2,302
2,302
2,415|
||**-**
**65,590**
**65,590**
**63,943**|
||-
736
736
651
-
824
824
1,033
-
144
144
-|
||**-**
**1,704**
**1,704**
**1,684**|
|||
||**-**
**67,294**
**67,294**
**65,627**|
9