stepping stones • Annual Report 2024
Contents
Overview 1
Message from Chair of Trustees 2
Treasurer’s Report 3
4 Charity Manager’s Report
5 Acknowledgements
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
01
Overview
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure is a charity that supports adults with learning disabilities to live full and connected lives.
Each week, we run a range of creative, social, and skill-based sessions that bring people together, build confidence, and encourage independence. From music and drama to gardening and digital skills, our sessions give people the chance to try new things, form friendships, and feel part of something collective.
Our aim is to offer meaningful opportunities shaped by the ideas and interests of the people who take part. Most of our programmes run from St Faith’s Community Centre in Herne Hill, but we also work off-site in a local residential home, activity centre, and our allotment in Nunhead. Wherever the session takes place, we want everyone to feel welcome, listened to, and able to get involved in a way that works for them.
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
02
Message from our Chair of Trustees
“Nobody puts Baby in the corner…”
A line from our fabulous Summer Show - one of the highlights being the Stepping Stones take on Dirty Dancing.
And nobody puts our wonderful learners at Stepping Stones in the corner either!
----- Start of picture text -----
Summer Show 2024
----- End of picture text -----
There has been stability, growth and change this year.
All our fun and high-quality classes, summer show, summer outing and parties continued in their own inimitable style, providing much joy and excitement. We expanded – following requests from our learners – developing a new social club, meaning more activities and outings, particularly using local resources.
Our much-loved Manager, Catriona, moved on to pastures new after 10 years of guiding and developing Stepping Stones into the success it is today. Although a sad goodbye, we were delighted to welcome Karen, who has already got her feet well and truly under the table, fizzing with ideas and determined to contribute to our ongoing success. Much kudos to them both for such a smooth transition.
As always, many thanks to the funders and supporters; our carers and families and to the fantastic tutors and volunteers who make magic happen every single week.
Last word, is always for the learners - who contribute so much, keep us on our toes and together, create the most brilliant community, where individuals thrive because they belong.
Lynn Bransby Chair of Trustees
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
03
Treasurer’s Report
Income
I am pleased to report that Stepping Stones has experienced another positive year during which we generated total income of £110,809 which compares to £35,489 in 2023. As previously reported, this relatively lower number for last year is partly due to timing issues as we were granted £30,000 from Terra Firma Charitable Trust in 2022 which funded services delivered in 2023.
Our primary sources of income for the year were:
Donations
We again received a generous donation from The Baily Thomas Charitable Fund which provided us with £15,000 of funding. We were also particularly fortunate to receive an unexpected grant of £58,048 following the dissolution of The Michael Tippet College Ltd during the year.
Grants
We are grateful for the ongoing support of Southwark Adult Learning Services, which provided £22,750, and Southwark Neighbourhood fund who provided £3580 of funding in 2024.
Subscriptions
Users of our services pay a nominal fee for attendance and income from this source during the year was £11,070, a small increase on last year. While we believe that charging for attendance is important, It is the trustees’ intention that classes remain affordable to all.
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
04
Expenditure
Our charity incurred total expenses of £72,806 during the 2024 financial year compared to £67,294 in 2023.
The major expense categories were:
Salaries and Tutors Fees
Our major expenses during the year, at £61,394 relate to the salary for our operations manager and the fees paid to our tutors, all of whom work tirelessly to provide outstanding services to our service users.
Activity-Related Expenses
Administrative costs relating to hall hire and other activity-related and office expenses were £9,764 during the year.
Governance Costs
Costs including accountancy fees and insurance were £1,647 for 2024
Financial Health
We are pleased to report that our charity remains financially stable. Our current net assets as of 31 December 2024 stand at £132,060 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 and we are taking steps to ensure that our assets are managed as efficiently as possible going forward. 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
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
05
Charity Manager’s Report
2024 has been another busy and rewarding year at Stepping Stones. We’ve welcomed new members, continued to grow our programme, and stayed focused on creating safe, welcoming spaces for adults with learning disabilities. We’ve run our much-loved sessions in Drama, Dance, Art, Music, Gardening, and Digital Skills from our base at St Faith’s Community Centre, and delivered creative sessions in a local residential home and an activity centre to help us reach people who might otherwise miss out. The figures below give a sense of the scale and energy of the year and behind each number is a person who’s found purpose or connection through what we do.
Thursday Social Club
In Spring 2024, we responded to our learners asks of more social activities by launching a en nine-week pilot programme for a club creating a safe and inclusive space for our learners to meet socially. The goal was to combat social isolation, improve mental health, and develop social connections. Weekly sessions included art, games, baking and outings in the local area to the Horniman museum, Dulwich Picture Gallery and for lunch at local restaurants.
The pilot sessions had consistent attendance and enthusiastic feedback, which showed the importance of the project. Learners unanimously agreed that the Social Club was vital to their lives, so we are continuing to run the Social Club on Thursdays and hope to expand it further next year.
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
06
Summer Show
This year’s Summer Show was a resounding success and the event offered a chance to share the Stepping Stones experience with friends, family, and supporters. Our learners truly shone in a lively performance inspired by Dirty Dancing.
Held on Friday 12th July 2024, the show was the culmination of weeks of dedication in our dance and drama sessions, with learners learning choreography, rehearsing lines, and building confidence together.
Summer Day Trip
After several years of visiting Littlehampton for our annual trip, the group had voted to try something new with a trip to Shoreham. However, travel disruptions on the day redirected us back to Littlehampton! In spite of the change of plan, we made the most of the sunny weather and enjoyed a relaxing day by the sea. Perhaps next year we’ll manage to explore a new destination.
Christmas Party
We rounded off the year with a Christmas party at the centre. The social club learners took great pride in decorating the community Christmas tree, receiving lovely feedback from staff and other groups using the venue. The celebrations began with carol singing, followed by a festive lunch, cooked by a learner’s family, and an afternoon of music and dancing bringing the year to a cheerful close.
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
07
Next Steps
As we look ahead, we remain committed to deepening our impact, reaching more people, and making sure our work continues to reflect the voices and needs of those we support. Building on everything we’ve achieved this year, we’ll focus on the following priorities in 2025.
Grow Our Reach
We will welcome new members and strengthen our outreach work in local residential and community settings to support more people with learning disabilities reach their full potential.
Develop Learner Voice
We will embed co-design and coproduction approaches in our work by gathering regular feedback and exploring new ways for members to shape what we do.
Strengthen Our Foundations
Strengthen Community Connections
We are improving internal systems, policies, and governance to ensure we have long-term sustainability and clear ways of working.
We will collaborate with local organisations, venues, and artists to create shared opportunities and increase visibility for our learners' contributions.
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
08
Acknowledgements
We are incredibly grateful for the financial support we received in 2024, which has enabled us to continue running and developing our programme.
This year, we were pleased to receive funding from the Southwark Neighbourhood Fund, The Baily Thomas Charitable Fund, Michael Tippet College Ltd and Southwark Adult Learning. Each of these contributions has helped us reach more people, try new ideas, and maintain the quality of what we offer.
Our heartfelt thanks also go to our tutors and volunteers whose creativity, care, and commitment have brought so much energy to every session. Their work continues to provide meaningful, life-enhancing opportunities for an increasing number of adults with learning disabilities. We are also supported by a dedicated board of trustees who give their time and guidance to ensure we remain focused, responsible, and centred on the people we serve.
A huge thank you to the carers, support workers, family members and friends who help make participation possible and who add so much to our community.
Most importantly, to the people who come to Stepping Stones – thank you for showing up, sharing your ideas, and bringing your whole selves to our sessions. You are the reason we’re here and you make it all worthwhile.
Contact
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure St Faith’s Community Centre Red Post Hill SE24 9JQ
www.steppingstoneslearning.org.uk info@steppingstoneslearning.org.uk 07950 612914
Stepping Stones Learning and Leisure | Annual Report 2024
09
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE
(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024
CONTENTS
PAGES
Administrative Information Executive Committee & Trustees Report Independent Examiners Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements Detailed Income and Expenditure
1
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 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 | |
| Sally Reid - User Representative | |
| Jennifer Walmsley – Treasurer | |
| Julia Barbosa – Member – Resigned 27/09/2024 | |
| David Keaveney-Sheath – Member | |
| Avery Jayne Benton – Member | |
| David Cleverly – Appointed 07/03/2024 | |
| 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 2024
The Executive Committee of Stepping Stones Leaning and Leisure present their Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.
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. ………………………….. und Lynn Bransby - Chair Date 9 October 2025
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 2024, 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.
Geobprey Gibbs
Geoffrey C Gibbs FCA Gibsons Financial Limited Foresters Hall 25/27 Westow Street Upper Norwood London SE19 3RY
9 October 2025
4
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024 Total 2023 Total £ £ £ £ 73,048 26,330 99,378 25,124 11,431 - 11,431 10,365 84,479 26,330 110,809 35,489 |
|---|---|
| - 71,159 71,159 65,590 - 1,647 1,647 1,704 - 72,806 72,806 67,294 |
|
| 84,479 (46,476) 38,003 (31,805) 94,389 29 94,418 126,223 (46,500) 46,500 - - 132,368 53 132,421 94,418 |
5
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| Current Assets | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Cash at Bank | 133,071 | 95,068 |
| Cash in Hand | - | - |
| Debtors | - | - |
| 132,711 | 95,068 | |
| Current Liabilities | ||
| Creditors and Accruals | 650 | 650 |
| Net Current Assets | 132,060 | 94,418 |
| Funds: | ||
| Unrestricted Fund | 132,368 | 94,389 |
| Restricted Fund | 53 | 29 |
| 132,421 | 94,418 |
The financial statements were approved by Executive Committee and Trustees on 9 October 2025 and Approved on their behalf by:
und ……………………………… Lynn Bransby - Chair
6
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024 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 2024
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 |
2024 2023 £ £ 7,25- - 2024 2023 £ £ 650 650 2,88- - 650 650 |
|---|---|
8
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE
(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
DETAILED INCOME & EXPENDITURE
| Incoming resources from generated funds: Voluntary Income/Grants Southwark Adult Learning Services Peter Minet Donations Baily Thomas Michael Tippet College Ltd 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 2024 Total 2023 Total £ £ £ £ - 22,750 22,750 16,500 - - - 5,000 - - - 100 15,000 - 15,000 - 58,048 - 58,048 - - 3,580 3,580 3,524 |
|---|---|
| 73,048 26,330 99,378 25,141 |
|
| 11,070 361 - - 11,070 361 10,100 265 |
|
| 11,431 - 11,431 10,365 |
|
| 84,479 26,330 110,809 35,489 |
|
| Unrestricted Fund Restricted Fund Total 2024 Total 2023 £ £ £ £ - 30,218 30,218 29,639 - 31,176 31,176 27,924 - 3,744 3,744 3,410 - 2,886 2,886 2,315 - 3,134 3,134 2,302 |
|
| - 71,159 71,159 65,590 |
|
| - 634 634 736 - 862 862 824 - 151 151 144 |
|
| - 1,647 1,647 1,704 |
|
| - 72,806 72,806 67,294 |
9
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE
(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024
CONTENTS
PAGES
Administrative Information Executive Committee & Trustees Report Independent Examiners Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements Detailed Income and Expenditure
1
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| 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 | |
| Sally Reid - User Representative | |
| Jennifer Walmsley – Treasurer | |
| Julia Barbosa – Member – Resigned 27/09/2024 | |
| David Keaveney-Sheath – Member | |
| Avery Jayne Benton – Member | |
| David Cleverly – Appointed 07/03/2024 | |
| 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 2024
The Executive Committee of Stepping Stones Leaning and Leisure present their Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.
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. ………………………….. und Lynn Bransby - Chair Date 9 October 2025
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 2024, 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.
Geobprey Gibbs
Geoffrey C Gibbs FCA Gibsons Financial Limited Foresters Hall 25/27 Westow Street Upper Norwood London SE19 3RY
9 October 2025
4
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024 Total 2023 Total £ £ £ £ 73,048 26,330 99,378 25,124 11,431 - 11,431 10,365 84,479 26,330 110,809 35,489 |
|---|---|
| - 71,159 71,159 65,590 - 1,647 1,647 1,704 - 72,806 72,806 67,294 |
|
| 84,479 (46,476) 38,003 (31,805) 94,389 29 94,418 126,223 (46,500) 46,500 - - 132,368 53 132,421 94,418 |
5
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024
| Current Assets | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Cash at Bank | 133,071 | 95,068 |
| Cash in Hand | - | - |
| Debtors | - | - |
| 132,711 | 95,068 | |
| Current Liabilities | ||
| Creditors and Accruals | 650 | 650 |
| Net Current Assets | 132,060 | 94,418 |
| Funds: | ||
| Unrestricted Fund | 132,368 | 94,389 |
| Restricted Fund | 53 | 29 |
| 132,421 | 94,418 |
The financial statements were approved by Executive Committee and Trustees on 9 October 2025 and Approved on their behalf by:
und ……………………………… Lynn Bransby - Chair
6
STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 2024 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.
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STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE (CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
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 |
2024 2023 £ £ 7,25- - 2024 2023 £ £ 650 650 2,88- - 650 650 |
|---|---|
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STEPPING STONES LEARNING AND LEISURE
(CHARITABLE INCORPORATED ORGANISATION)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
DETAILED INCOME & EXPENDITURE
| Incoming resources from generated funds: Voluntary Income/Grants Southwark Adult Learning Services Peter Minet Donations Baily Thomas Michael Tippet College Ltd 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 2024 Total 2023 Total £ £ £ £ - 22,750 22,750 16,500 - - - 5,000 - - - 100 15,000 - 15,000 - 58,048 - 58,048 - - 3,580 3,580 3,524 |
|---|---|
| 73,048 26,330 99,378 25,141 |
|
| 11,070 361 - - 11,070 361 10,100 265 |
|
| 11,431 - 11,431 10,365 |
|
| 84,479 26,330 110,809 35,489 |
|
| Unrestricted Fund Restricted Fund Total 2024 Total 2023 £ £ £ £ - 30,218 30,218 29,639 - 31,176 31,176 27,924 - 3,744 3,744 3,410 - 2,886 2,886 2,315 - 3,134 3,134 2,302 |
|
| - 71,159 71,159 65,590 |
|
| - 634 634 736 - 862 862 824 - 151 151 144 |
|
| - 1,647 1,647 1,704 |
|
| - 72,806 72,806 67,294 |
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