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2022-03-31-accounts

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM

Charity Incorporated Organisation (C.I.O)

Financial Statements

For the period ended

31[st] March 2022

Registered Charity No: 1177069

1

Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Principal address:

253 Firs Lane Winchmore Hill London N21 2PH

Trustees and Committee Members:

Toni Guiver Gail Nielen Helen Osman Soulla Thomas Lisa Chapman Geraldine Cosh Chris Ferrary Simon Jarosch

Governing document

The organisation is operated under the rules of its constitution.

Bankers:

HSBC Bank PLC 1 The Town Enfield, EN2 6LD

2

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

Contents

Trustees’ Report ........................................................................................................................................................................ 4 Statement of Financial Activities ..................................................................................................................................... 7 Balance Sheet ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8 Notes to the accounts ............................................................................................................................................................ 9 AGM Report .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Independent Examiner’s Report ..................................................................................................................................... 15 Trustees’ Annual Report for the period ...................................................................................................................... 17

3

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

Trustees’ Report

Annual Report

The trustees are pleased to present their annual report for the period ending 31[st] March 2022, which are prepared to meet the requirements for a trustees’ report and accounts for Charities Act purposes.

The financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the constitution, 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 2015).

Financial Review

Despite lock-downs throughout most of the year, there were donations from the public and the donation from the Council for the community hub was received. However, many activities were still not possible to take place, so expenditure remained low. Primarily due to the grant from the Council, the charity was able to increase its assets by £70,435.

Structure, Governance and Management

Friends of Firs Farm is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), registered with the Charity Commission and governed by its constitution, dated 31[st] March 2019.

Membership of the CIO is open to anyone who is interested in furthering its purposes and, who by applying for membership, has indicated agreement to become a member and accept the duties of membership. If the CIO is wound up, the members of the CIO have no liability to contribute to its assets and no personal responsibility for settling its debts and liabilities.

The affairs of the charity are managed on a day to day basis by the trustees, who may exercise all the powers of the CIO.

The trustees who served during the period are shown on page 2 of this report.

Appointment of Trustees

In accordance with the terms of the constitution, there must be at least three charity trustees. If the number falls below the minimum, the remaining trustees can act only to call a meeting of the trustees or appoint a new trustee.

The maximum number of charity trustees is 12. The charity trustees may not appoint any charity trustee if as a result the number of charity trustees would exceed the maximum. Trustees are appointed at the Annual General Meeting by a decision of the members.

Each new trustee is given a copy of the constitution and the latest trustees’ annual report and accounts, on or before appointment.

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Our volunteers

Friends of Firs Farm is very involved in the community and relies on voluntary help. Around 20 volunteers assist with our on-going activities. We wish to thank our volunteers for their loyal support and contribution.

Risk management

The trustees have a risk management strategy which comprises:

The Trustees constantly review risks relevant to the charity. Any risks identified are reported to the Trustees and decisions made on how to minimise risk.

Reserves policy and going concern

The Trustees have assessed the charity’s requirements for reserves in the light of the main risks to the organisation. As a result, the Trustees have approved a policy whereby the unrestricted funds not committed, should be held in reserve and maintained at a level which ensures that Friends of Firs Farm core activity could continue during a period of unforeseen difficulty. The target reserve amount represents at least 3 months’ (12 weeks) expenditure and will be reviewed annually.

Organisational Charitable Objects

To provide or assist in the provision of facilities for recreation and other leisure time occupation in the interests of social welfare with the object of improving the conditions of life of the public in North London / Enfield by supporting the preservation, promotion and improvement of Firs Farm Wetlands Park & Playing Fields .

Trustees and Their Responsibilities

Charity trustees are the people who serve on the governing body of a charity. They may be known as trustees, directors, board members, governors or committee members. The principles and main duties are the same in all cases.

Trustees have, and must accept, ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of a charity, and ensuring that it is solvent, well-run, and meeting the needs for which it has been set up.

Achievements

Please refer to the AGM report.

Future Plan

The organisation will continue to generate income and fundraise to support its increasing demand for its services for public benefit.

Planning application for the community hub has been approved and plans are underway to build the hub. Everyone is very excited to see the long-awaited plans come to fruition.

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FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

We thank all volunteers and members for their valuable support in achieving our goals and objectives for the year.

Signed on behalf of all Trustees

Toni Guiver

Chair 30[th] January 2023

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Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Statement of Financial Activities

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM Statement of Financial Activities for the period ended 31[st] March 2022

INCOMING RESOURCES
Donation
Enfield In Bloom
Groundworks
Winter Wonderland
Forest school
Other fundraising
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Expenses in raising funds
Charitable Expenditure
Project Activities
Festivals & Events
Equipment (5)
General Administration costs
Other expenses
Professional fees
TOTAL RESOUCES EXPENDED
Net Incomings and (outgoings)
BALANCE BROUGHT FORWARD
BALANCE CARRIED FORWARD		 Unrestricted
Funds
£		 Restricted
Total
Funds
Funds
2022
£
£
70,500
71,504
-
-
-
-
-
-
218
218
-
403		 Total
Funds
2021
£
226
-
-
5
1,314
193
1,004
-
-
-
-
403
1,407 70,718
72,126		 1,738
-
-
-
128
-
164
32
636
-
39
-
165
490
559		 -
27
-
806
118
-
-

128
164
604
39
165
69
1,169 522
1,691		 951
238 70,196
70,435		 787
5,060 18,490
23,550		 22,817
5,298 88,686
93,984		 23,604

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Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Balance Sheet

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM Balance Sheet as at 31[st] MARCH 2022

Notes
Current Assets
(6)
Debtor
Cash at Bank and in Hand
Deposit and Cash
Current Liabilities
Creditors: Falling due within one year
Accruals and Creditors
Net Assets
As Represented By:
Restricted Fund
(7)
Unrestricted fund
(8)
Total Funds		 2022
2021
£
£
-
108
93,984
23,550
-
-
-
(54)
-
-
93,984
23,604
88,686
19,994
5,298
3,610
93,984
23,604

The accounts were approved by the Trustees on 8[th] June 2022 and signed on their behalf by:

………………………......... …………………….............

Chair Treasurer Toni Guiver Simon Jarosch

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Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Notes to the accounts

1. Accounting Basis

The principal accounting policies adopted, judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty in the preparation of the financial statements are as follows:

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2015) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). Friends of Firs Farm meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).

Preparation of the accounts on a going concern basis:

The Charity trustees are of the view that measures taken in reviewing organisational costs regularly and successful in applying for continuation funding have secured the immediate future of the Charity for the next 12 months and that on this basis the charity is a going concern.

2. Cash Flow Statement

The trustees have taken advantage of the exemption in Financial Reporting Standard No 1 (revised) from including a cash flow statement in the financial statements on the grounds that the charity is small.

3. Incoming resources

Income is recognised in the period to which it relates, unless specified otherwise by the funder. Project funding is, in general, repayable if not expended within the relevant project. Such income is only recognised to the extent that it ceases to be repayable. The income is accounted for on a receivable basis.

4. Resource Expendable

Resources expended are included in the Statement of Financial Activities inclusive of VAT which cannot be recovered.

5. Equipment

Equipment was purchased to support the clearing of the ponds, maintenance equipment for the play area and eco club.

6. Fixed assets

The organisation has no fixed assets.

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FRIENDS OF FIRS FARM (1177069)

Period Ended 31[st] March 2022

7 . Restricted Fund

Restricted funds of £70,718 were received, mainly in relation to the Community Hub. Expenditure of restricted funds took place for the year ended 2022 relating to the planning application for the community hub (£490) and the eco club (£32). The restricted fund balance carried forward into 2022 is £88,686.

8. Unrestricted Fund

Unrestricted funds were generated from Donation & fundraising. The current balance of £5,298 is carried forward into the next financial year.

These are accumulated to enable the organisation to continue its activities in case of loss of funding and to meet organisational objectives in line with the reserve policy.

9. Staff Cost

The organisation has no paid staff on payroll.

There were no transactions of any nature with any of the Trustees.

10

AGM Report

Community working together to help shape how our park works, is maintained, & protected

Friends of Firs Farm

Wetlands Park & Playing Fields

AGM

8[th] June 2022

This report is to highlight the achievements and the aims of the group ‘Friends of Firs Farm (FOFF)’ for the twelve-month period to 31[st] March 2022.

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Message from the Trustees – Thank you for your support on saving our green space!

Over the last year, Firs Farm wetlands has continued to thrive despite the rumblings of the green space being used for a crematorium as seen in the Enfield draft local plan (published in Summer 2021). This proposal galvanised many of the community e.g. over 2000 signatures in objection to the proposal and we are still awaiting the council’s confirmation that this is not going ahead. We will keep you informed but the solid and overwhelming response from this community has really been heartening in its support. A big thank you to all.

As usual, and since the pandemic, this green space has proven to be a ‘life saver’ for families and many of the community who need to experience and engage with wildlife and fresh air. The park volunteers have continued to carry on with the planting plan and have seen more than 300 saplings as well as numerous statement trees being planted. Long term this planting mitigates some of the climate change and attracts and supports further wildlife. Fun was had by all including local councillors, school and nursery children and another thank you to all those who have been watering the ‘Japanese Sakura project’ cherry trees. This year it has also seen the orchard improved and we have added another 1012 fruit trees.

Despite lock downs, the volunteers have continued to develop themed trails for children to enjoy and they have continued to maintain the whole of the green and blue space. Without this much valued team of dedicated people, firs farm would not be so beautiful.

Many of you have been asking about the community hub which will be a community asset for all to enjoy. This is being progressed behind the scenes. The trustees have been working hard on planning permission (now granted), raising further capital as costs escalate and exploring potential building and catering contractors. We want to thank our sponsors for their patience who include Sport England, Enfield council, and Thames Water.

Other long term projects are the multi-sport pitch and this is still in limbo with the council. Sadly, this project would have made a difference to the local hockey and football teams this year and we continue to encourage the council to now progress this project. The councils Enfield Sports strategy – adopted in April 2018 has yet to be progressed by the council. Gating and fencing is another project which the FOFF are hoping to progress but looking for support post-hub development. There has been success in increasing the number of bins in populated areas to reduce litter.

The wildlife has thrived again this year and we are seeing a wealth of species within the boundaries. Protected species such as water voles, slow worms, and stag beetles plus many other species: newts, fogs, swans, Egyptian geese, cormorants, hedge sparrows, swallows, song thrush, gold finch, herons, woodpeckers to name a few.

Thank you

The FOFF Trustees

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What has been accomplished during the past twelve months?

In addition to the usual business of the Friends to ensure we further our purposes and encourage all to participate in the park (refer to the 2021 AGM report), we have the following to share with you:

1- Awareness of crematorium plans from the Enfield draft local plan (Summer 2021)

Having not been informed by the council of the proposal to site the crematorium on the green space, the FoFF decided to set up and information day for the community on Sunday 5[th] September. Thank you again to all the volunteers who delivered flyers and posters to the local businesses and households when we set up an information before the consultation finished (end date 13[th] September), FOFF gathered more than 2459 Signatures and sent them to the council. Further letters and emails have been sent separately from concerned residents (about this proposal to have a crematorium in the park) especially when the trustees have been working hard on developing a community hub. Following the submission of these signatures, the FOFF did meet with the leader of the council and other officers to discuss the future plans and vision for the park and the possible impact of the proposal. The scrutiny meeting took place in December (CF/HO to update this section)

2- Launch of urban wetlands design guide with Zoological Society London

August 2021, FOFF joined an event with the council, Thames Water, Thames 21 organised by the Zoological Society to showcase the Wetlands and to launch this Guide. Copy available using this link https://www.zsl.org/sites/default/files/2021_Urban%20Wetlands_FINAL%5B125594%5D.pdf. This event celebrated the work of both the FOFF, local community and the council and what can be achieved when all stakeholders work together.

3- Celebration of past year Trustees achievements including new members

As a charity we are only as good as our Trustees and members and so we thank all members who got involved in the last year’s sessions. We encourage others who feel that protecting a green space is important for the community to come forward whatever skills they believe will support the charity aims, particularly if you have fundraising, admin, sport, events or legal skills that will support the charity.

The Japanese Sakura project Cherry Trees planted earlier in 2021, now have added protection of stakes and cages which will remain in place for the next 3/5 years to help prevent damage to these special young trees. Tasks to water, weed and mulch these continue to be carried out by regular volunteers and local residents.

The annual Blue/Green space ‘Walkabout’ with the council parks officers, councillors and the FOFF last took place in August 2021. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss concerns and aspirations for the park. Sadly this has not progressed since the previous years walkabout due to the council staff changes. We have arranged a further meeting to review with the council and will share the updates on what will happen in terms of future maintenance and future improvements / changes once this has taken place. Children at play – It is important for us to encourage families to ‘Get out and Get active’. The ‘children’s area’ remains a favourite for local families to spend time in a space, that helps to engage and keep them amused. New additions include a chess table and new seating.

FOFF Eco club –The last year has seen the return of this popular activity in Firs Farm. No matter the weather, children have flocked to attend these events.

13

Wildlife : Sadly with the growing number and size of the terrapins that were literally dumped in the wetlands almost 4 years ago, remains a problem. We have lost many eggs and small invertebrates which is having a serious impact on the water wildlife numbers. The plan is to try to capture these and have them shipped out to a more suitable space for them to live out their predator years.

Working with third parties/stakeholders/business.

1. Membership / Volunteers

There are no fees charged for membership, although donations are always welcome.

2. Social Media / Google maps

We currently have 1700 facebook followers, 700 on Twitter and 1,460 on Instagram. Our rating on Googles maps remains at a healthy 4.5. (501 good reviews).

Google reports that the average time spent there by visitors is 45 minutes. We expect this figure to change once the community hub is built. Watch this space for the upcoming changes later on in 2022!

3. Funding/donations

Funds/pledges have increased this last year particularly around the community hub. Please refer to the Finance report for further information. Thanks to an anonymous donor, we were in a position to fund our campaign against the councils proposed crematorium. In addition, donations to us via social media go towards supporting our family initiatives.

The Friends applied for a number of funds, so kindly refer to the Treasurers report for the complete list of all donations received during the past year.

What does the Future hold for Firs Farm and our much loved green space?

Summary – In summary, FOFF, a registered Charity, dedicated to maintaining and protecting the park and wildlife for public benefit. The friends are an active group which is evidenced by volunteer hours since inception in excess of 20,000. There is no membership fee in order to keep the group ‘open to all’.

Come and join us and show that you L ♥ ve your Green Space.

Thank you

The Trustees of Friends of Firs Farm Registered Charity 1177069

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Independent Examiner’s Report

Independent examiner's report on the accounts

Section A Independent Examiner’s Report Report to the Friends of Firs Farm trustees/directors/ members of On accounts for the year 31[st] March 2022 ended Charity no.: 1177069 Company no.: - Set out on pages 1-14 (remember to include the page numbers of additional sheets) I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 31 / 03 / 2022. As the charity’s trustees of the Company (who are also the directors of the Responsibilities and basis of company for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the report preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (“the 2006 Act”). Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited for this year under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (“the 2011 Act”). In carrying out my examination, I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention (other than that disclosed below *) which gives me cause to believe that:

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Independent examiner's statement

• the accounts do not comply with relevant accounting requirements under section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair’ view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or

I 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 accounts to be reached.

Signed: Name: Nicholas Hayes

----- Start of picture text -----
Date: 26/01/2023
----- End of picture text -----

Relevant professional Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales qualification(s) or body (if any):

Address: 58 Brooklands Park

London

SE3 9AJ

16

Trustees’ Annual Report for the period

From 1[st] April 2021 Period start date To 31[st] March 2022 Period end date

Charity name: Friends of Firs Farm

Charity registration number: 1177069

Objectives and Activities

SORP reference
Summary of the purposes of
the charity as set out in its
governing document		 Para 1.17 The charity brings the community together for
events, interests, and sporting / other in/outdoor
activities, as well as providing volunteer
opportunities, reduce loneliness and encourage
healthier lifestyles.
Summary of the main
activities in relation to those
purposes for the public
benefit, in particular, the
activities, projects or services
identified in the accounts.		 Para 1.17 and
1.19		 Awareness of crematorium plans from the
Enfield draft local plan (Summer 2021)
Launch of urban wetlands design guide with
Zoological Society London
Celebration of past year Trustees
achievements including new members
The Japanese Sakura project Cherry Trees
planted earlier in 2021, now have added
protection of stakes and cages which will remain
in place for the next 3/5 years to help prevent
damage to these special young trees. The annual
Blue/Green space ‘Walkabout’ with the council
parks officers, councillors and the FOFF last took
place in August 2021.
Children at play– It is important for us to
encourage families to ‘Get out and Get active’.
The ‘children’s area’ remains a favourite for local
families to spend time in a space, that helps to
engage and keep them amused. New additions
include a chess table and new seating.
FOFF Eco club–The last year has seen the
return of this popular activity in Firs Farm. No
matter the weather, children have flocked to
attend these events.
Wildlife: Sadly with the growing number and size
of the terrapins that were literally dumped in the
wetlands almost 4 years ago, remains a problem.
We have lost many eggs and small invertebrates
which is having a serious impact on the water
wildlife numbers. The plan is to try to capture
these and have them shipped out to a more
suitable space for them to live out their predator
years.
Statement confirming
whether the trustees have
had regard to the guidance
issued by the Charity		 Para 1.18 The charity makes available to all Trustees the
requirements and guidance issued by the Charity
Commission.

17

Commission on public benefit

Achievements and Performance

SORP reference
Summary of the main
achievements of the charity,
identifying the difference the
charity’s work has made to
the circumstances of its
beneficiaries and any wider
benefits to society as a
whole.		 Para 1.20 While there has been a hiatus to the normal
events calendar because of the lockdowns and
pandemic induced restrictions, Enfield in Bloom
took place, decorations were put up for
Halloween and Christmas, tree planting
continued to take place in the year and
preparations are underway for the community
hub.

Financial Review

Financial Review
Review of the charity’s
financial position at the end
of the period		 Para 1.21 There were total funds of £93,984 at the end of
the reporting period and £70,735 of net income
achieved over the year.
Statement explaining the
policy for holding reserves
stating why they are held		 Para 1.22 The target level of reserves, from unrestricted
funds, is 3 months’ worth of expenditure.
Amount of reserves held Para 1.22 £5,298
Reasons for holding zero
reserves		 Para 1.22 Not applicable
Details of fund materially in
deficit		 Para 1.24 Not applicable
Explanation of any
uncertainties about the
charity continuing as a going
concern		 Para 1.23 Not applicable

Structure, Governance and Management

Description of charity’s
trusts:		 None
Type of governing document
(trust deed, royal charter)		 Para 1.25 Constitution
How is the charity
constituted?
(e.g unincorporated
association, CIO)		 Para 1.25 The charity is set up as a Charitable Incorporated
Organisation.
Trustee selection methods
including details of any
constitutional provisions e.g.
election to post or name of
any person or body entitled
to appoint one or more
trustees		 Para 1.25 Applicant fills out a fit & proper persons
declaration form and is interviewed by the Chair.
There are a maximum number of 12 trustees, as
per the constitution.

Reference and Administrative details

Charity name Friends of Firs Farm
Other name the charity uses None
Registered charity number 1177069

18

Charity’s principal address 253 Firs Lane,
Winchmore Hill,
London,N21 2PH

19

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20		 Trustee name Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
**year **		 Name of person (or body) entitled
to appoint trustee (ifany)
Toni Guiver Chair
Gail Nielen Secretary
Helen Osman Trustee
Soulla Thomas Trustee
Lisa Chapman Trustee
Geraldine Cosh Trustee
Chris Ferrary Trustee
Simon Jarosch Treasurer

– Corporate trustees names of the directors at the date the report was approved

Director name - - - - - -

Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity

Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole year
-
-
-
-
-
-

20

Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others

Description of the assets None held in this capacity Name and objects of the Not applicable charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects Details of arrangements for Not applicable safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets

Exemptions from disclosure

Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details

N/a

Other optional information

Declarations

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

e charity’s trustees e charity’s trustees e charity’s trustees
Signature(s)
Full name(s)
Position (eg Secretary,
Chair, etc)
Date
Toni Guiver Simon Jarosch

Chair		 Trustee
30thJanuary 2023
30thJanuary 2023

21