CANCER CARE DIASPORA
ANNUAL REPORT & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
30 JUNE 2024
Charity Number 1178766
CANCER CARE DIASPORA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
| CONTENTS | PAGE |
|---|---|
| Trustees Annual Report | 5 - 8 |
| Reaching Communities 3-Year (2024) Project Report | 9-15 |
| Statement of Financial Activities (incorporating the | |
| Income and expenditure account) | 16 |
| Balance sheet | 17 |
| Notes to the financial statements | 18 - 19 |
| Independent Examiners Report | 20 |
CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Registered charity name CANCER CARE DIASPORA
Charity registration number 1178766 Principal office 83 Ducie Street Manchester M1 2JQ Registered office 83 DUCIE STREET MANCHESTER M1 2JQ THE TRUSTEES Abigail Omoye Abara Dr Amara Ajaegbu Christabel Abraham Independent Examiner Nii Otu Quaye FFA/FICA 11 Louvaine Close Manchester M18 8SJ Bankers Lloyds Bank Market Street Manchester
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
1. Executive Summary
The charity has made a significant impact in the community by providing free food parcels on a weekly basis. These food parcels are distributed to three distinct groups: individuals affected by cancer, their dedicated caregivers, and the broader community. The charity operates out of two key centres, Harpurhey Children's Centre and Transformation Community Resource Centre in Manchester.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of those battling cancer and their caregivers but also extends its reach to the general community, offering vital support to individuals who may be facing food insecurity or financial hardship. By providing regular access to nutritious food, the charity has played a crucial role in improving the overall well-being and quality of life for its beneficiaries, while fostering a sense of community and solidarity among residents. We have also a introduced a third midweek session to the Moston community and a standalone foodbank in Harpurhey on Saturdays.
2. Our Impact
Cancer Care Diaspora, a charitable organisation, has made significant strides in raising awareness and support for cancer-related issues within the general community. Their achievements include:
Awareness and Education : The charity has successfully educated the community about cancer, its causes, early detection, prevention, and the importance of regular screenings. This knowledge empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards cancer prevention and early intervention.
Weekly Food Support : Cancer Care Diaspora provides vital support to individuals living with cancer and their caregivers through weekly free food parcels. This practical assistance helps alleviate the financial burden and nutritional challenges often faced by these individuals.
Community Engagement : The charity operates from two centres, Harpurhey Children's Centre and Transformation Community Resource Centre Longsight, where we engage the community actively. We hand out food parcels at these centres, deliver to those home bound thereby fostering a sense of community and support among those affected by cancer.
Holistic Support : In addition to food support, Cancer Care Diaspora conducts relaxation exercises and support group sessions at both centres. These activities promote mental and emotional well-being among cancer patients and their caregivers, creating a holistic support system.
Overall, Cancer Care Diaspora has made a substantial impact by not only providing practical assistance but also creating a supportive and informed community that is better equipped to address the challenges posed by cancer.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
3. Transparency and Accountability
The governing body of the charity is comprise of three Trustees: Dr Amara Ajaegbu, Christabel Abraham, and Chairperson Abigail Abara. These Trustees play a crucial role in the organization, as they are responsible for making key decisions, ensuring the proper management of funds, and overseeing the allocation of the charity's resources. The charity appointed Laura Urhobo as Chief Executive Officer in January 2024 to oversee the day to day running of the charity and report back to the board of trustees during regular board meetngs. The role of the Board of Trustees include:
Decision-Making : The trustees, led by Abigail Abara, are responsible for making important decisions regarding the charity's operations, programs, and initiatives. They collectively determine the strategic direction and policies of the organisation.
Financial Oversight : One of the primary responsibilities of the trustees is to oversee the financial aspects of the charity. This includes approving budgets, monitoring expenses, and ensuring that funds are used efficiently and in accordance with the charity's mission.
Resource Allocation : The trustees oversee allocating the charity's resources, including funds, personnel, and assets, to various programs and activities. They make informed decisions on how to best utilize these resources to achieve the charity's goals and benefit its beneficiaries.
Compliance and Governance : The trustees ensure that the charity operates in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. They also uphold high standards of governance and ethical conduct within the organisation.
4. Diversity and Inclusion
The charity's commitment to complying with an inclusion and diversity policy is commendable, especially given that its users come from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Inclusion and diversity policies are essential in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background, have equal access to the charity's services and resources.
By actively promoting inclusion and diversity, the charity:
Ensures Equal Access : It creates an environment where people from all racial and ethnic backgrounds feel welcome and have equal access to the charity's services, including food support and other resources.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Celebrates Differences : The charity recognizes and celebrates the unique cultural backgrounds and experiences of its users. This can help foster a sense of belonging and pride among the beneficiaries.
Addresses Unique Needs : Inclusion and diversity policies allow the charity to address the unique needs of individuals from different backgrounds, ensuring that its services are culturally sensitive and relevant.
Promotes Unity : By embracing diversity, the charity promotes unity and social cohesion within the community. It sends a powerful message that everyone, regardless of their background, is valued and supported.
Complies with Legal and Ethical Standards : It ensures that the charity complies with legal requirements related to diversity and inclusion, promoting fairness and non-discrimination.
Overall, the charity's commitment to inclusion and diversity not only aligns with ethical and legal standards but also enhances its ability to effectively serve a diverse group of beneficiaries, ultimately strengthening its impact in the community.
5 . Looking Ahead
Cancer Care Diaspora's expansion plans and its commitment to reaching diverse communities are commendable. Here's an overview of our goals and needs:
5.1 Expansion Plan s
Cancer Care Diaspora aims to expand its reach throughout the United Kingdom over the next five years. This expansion will allow the charity to provide essential support and services to a broader audience of individuals and communities affected by cancer.
5.2 Funding and Support
To achieve its expansion goals, the charity is actively seeking more funders who are willing to support our mission. Increasing donations and financial support will enable us to expand operations, reach more community members, and enhance the impact of our programs .
5.3 Youth Eat and Play Project
Cancer Care Diaspora has recently initiated the Youth Eat and Play Project, which is a promising endeavour aimed at addressing the unique needs of young individuals or children who have a parent or guardian affected by cancer. To effectively run and sustain this project, additional resources, including funding and support are needed.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
By garnering more financial support and engaging with new funders especially Local Authority and BBC Children in Need, Cancer Care Diaspora can work towards expanding its footprint and making a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients, caregivers, the youth and the community at large. This growth will enable us to provide vital services and support to a more extensive and diverse group of beneficiaries throughout the United Kingdom.
6. Thank you
Expressing gratitude to The National Lottery Community Fund (TNLCF), Manchester City Council, Warburtons, BBC Children In Need, Nurturing Foundations, Manchester BME Network, Caribbean & African Network (CAHN), Afrocats and all other partners. Cancer Care Diaspora acknowledges the support and contributions of staff and volunteers that have made our impactful work possible this financial year. Recognizing these partners and individuals not only shows appreciation but also highlights the collaborative effort that has allowed the charity to make a positive impact to the lives of those affected by cancer, their families, carers, and the community at large.
Our ambitions to collaborate with more partners in the future would expand our reach beyond England, a demonstration of our commitment to continuing our mission and serving even more communities. Building strong partnerships and collaborations can indeed help extend the charity's influence and further its goal of making a difference in the lives of individuals and families facing the challenges of cancer.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
TNLCF Reaching Communities 3-Year Project Report
Aim
To support Black, Asians and other minority ethnic groups affected by Cancer by enabling them to offer support that will enhance the health and wellbeing of those with cancer.
Objectives
i. Provide individuals, carers and families with Information & Advice and signposting.
ii. Organise weekly fitness sessions for people recovering from cancer and their carers.
iii. Organise events, conferences and workshops to raise awareness, promote proactive self-test and encourage early presentation.
iv. Provide practical support for people living with cancer including home visits, help with shopping, provision of food parcels, budgeting, etc.
- v. Work with other organisations, churches, mosques and statutory agencies.
Summary Report – Year 1
Year 1 consisted of 12 months of activities providing us with opportunities to work with our service users to meet our objectives. During the year we were able to gather feedback from users to understand how they were responding and benefitting from the services that were provided.
Feedback was gathered using a quantitative and qualitative methodology from n=12 responses out of n=30 people who have been using the services. We were able to gather feedback from the remaining service users who either expressed their inability to complete the digital survey or n=9 who did answer the survey and wanted to expand on their feedback. Informal interviews allowed participants and volunteers to speak about their involvement.
From the feedback:
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Service users were enjoying the activities however they wanted the activities to increase further.
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The activities and engagement with each other through peer-to-peer support encouraged participation, improved physical and mental wellbeing.
For this to be enacted it would require more collaborative working with partners who cater for the Black African and Caribbean community. We recruited two full -time volunteers to support the increased activities and increased referrals into the service
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
and we were able to focus on capacity building to ensure that the service could be sustained over the longer term.
Weekly session at Transformation Community Resource Centre
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Summary Report – Year 2
Year 1 evaluation told us that service users wanted more services to be available to allow them to get the support they needed to improve their mental health and physical wellbeing. The opportunities for services users to come together in a safe place to get the advice, education and support was central to the success of the programme.
We achieved our priorities and goals during year 2 and this involved:
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Provision of culturally appropriate food via CCD’s Food Bank – this continued to be a significant source of support especially for those who were unable to work through their diagnosis and treatment. It was also helpful for volunteers who were not able to earn but who had a lived experience of cancer that was helpful to those using the service.
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Delivery health education by creating a learning environment where users were empowered to undertake some self-care and self-management of their health.
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CCD worked with other Black led organisations to deliver awareness raising talks. We also co-designed and co-delivered events where we were able to benefit our service users enabling them to engage with others from across different communities as well as engage with clinicians and other professionals. During the events we also had the opportunity to have stalls to promote awareness of cancer and recruit more service users and volunteers.
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An addition to partnering and working with Black led organisations CCD collaborated with NHS and others to raise awareness of early screening and detection of cancer. These awareness raising sessions provided us with the platform to engage across generations including working for 6 months with young people affected by cancer.
Overall feedback and impact
We undertook some interviews with service users to gather feedback on the activities and how we have engaged people to achieve our objectives. The overall feedback concludes that service users are engaged with the activities that are supporting their needs. This is evidenced in the attendance during the year which grew significantly and was sustained. Some of this was due to the engagements events we were involved in or developed as CCD.
- CCD staff and volunteers attended workshops which helped to guide our strategy development. These sessions helped us to find ways to innovate and become more sustainable.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Summary Report – Year 3
CCD delivered a significant number of activities during year 3 of the project. The project has continued to build traction among the Black African and Caribbean community regarding the activities we have engaged people in to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.
Several areas have been strengthened during the last 3 years and this has been evidenced through the regular and sustained engagement from regular attendees at events and in our activities, overall, we have had 90 regular attendees across the different activities. We have continued to attract volunteers especially those with lived experience of cancer whether that they have been diagnosed with or those that have family members or friends they have cared for.
Service users and providers of services have been grateful for the opportunity to partner and engage with CCD either through the opportunity to refer service users to use our services to gain the support they need following their diagnosis or service users themselves having a safe place they can go to for ongoing support.
The project objectives have been maintained throughout the life cycle with regular review and evaluation to ensure that we remained on track to deliver the objectives.
Testimonials
This section of the report provides some feedback from service users.
Each service user feedback journey demonstrates the benefits of collaboration and partnership with other stakeholders so that our service users can be signposted to other services. The testimonial and case study below indicate the gratitude that service users have shown and is reflective of the feedback we have received during year 3. Service users are keen to continue the collaboration with other agencies and are benefitting from a holistic service of support services they are empowered to use.
Feedback from Mwaka*
I would like to Express my gratitude thanks to Cancer Care Diaspora Support Group for everything they have done for me. Food and financial and exercise it's helpful for me to reduce my stress and now l can walk better and l have confidence now l was in a Tangerine Project and l learn a lot of things like food to eat and how to cook it and eat healthy foods it's helping me a lot l really appreciate and to meet different people we talk we laugh l enjoy the conversation and it's nice to be part of Cancer Care Diaspora thanks very much
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Case Study – Elizabeth*
Elizabeth and her family accessed various projects delivered by CCD and share the impact of the provisions on her and her family between January to August 2024. She started volunteering and now feel very much a part of the CCD family.
I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that CCD has had on the lives of individuals and families affected by cancer over the past year. This report reflects my experiences and observations from January to August 2024, showcasing the various ways our community has come together to provide support.
Support Group Meetings - One of the most transformative aspects of our work has been the support group meetings. These gatherings have created a nurturing environment where individuals can share their personal journeys, fears, and triumphs. Participants often leave feeling uplifted and empowered, knowing that they are not alone in their fight. The connections formed here have fostered a strong sense of community, reminding everyone that they have a network of support.
Exercise Sessions - These exercise sessions have been another highlight. Encouraging physical activity has proven to be essential for both physical and mental well-being. It has been inspiring to see participants engage in these sessions, often reporting increased energy and improved mood. Expressing this in a line; “these sessions have helped me regain my strength and confidence.”
Home Visits – These visits have allowed us to reach individuals who may not be able to attend group sessions. These visits are often filled with heartfelt conversations, providing emotional support and practical assistance tailored to each family's needs. I recall visiting a family who expressed how our support helped them feel less isolated during a challenging time. Moments like these reinforce the importance of our work.
Family and Individual Support - Our commitment to providing personalized family and individual support has made a tangible difference. We have been able to address specific needs, whether it be counselling, resource referrals, or simply a listening ear. This tailored approach has allowed families to navigate their challenges with greater ease.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Foodbank and Cost of Living Support - The foodbank initiative, especially with a focus on African foodstuffs, has been a lifeline for many families facing food insecurity. Knowing they can access culturally appropriate food has been crucial for their well-being. Recipients have shared their gratitude, highlighting how this support has alleviated some of their financial burdens.
Financial Support - Financial assistance has also played a vital role in alleviating the stress associated with medical expenses. By providing this support, we have enabled families to prioritize their health without the added worry of financial strain. It is rewarding to see the relief on their faces when they receive help.
Holiday Club for Children - The holiday club for children has been a delightful addition to our community offerings. By engaging children in fun and educational activities, we have provided them with a sense of normalcy and joy. Parents have reported that their children returned home with smiles and new friendships, which is heartwarming to witness.
Research Participation - Encouraging community involvement in research has been crucial for enhancing cancer care. Participants have expressed their willingness to contribute to studies, understanding that their experiences can help shape future treatments and support systems.
Community Event with Doctors - Our community event featuring two doctors discussing cancer signs and symptoms was a significant success. The doctors provided invaluable information, empowering attendees to recognize early warning signs and fostering a proactive approach to health. The positive feedback from participants emphasized the importance of such educational initiatives.
Overall Project Impact
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA TRUSTEES ANNUAL REPORT YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Conclusion
Reflecting on the past year, Cancer Care Diaspora has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many. The dedication of all staff, volunteers, and participants is commendable, and I feel honoured to be part of such an impactful organisation. As we continue to support our community, I am excited to see how we can further expand our reach and effectiveness in all of the communities we cover.
Recommendations
Enhancing Client Impact:
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Understanding the Journey: Map the client experience from initial contact to post-service engagement, identifying pain points and optimising the process.
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Tailored Support: Develop culturally specific programs, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness.
Building Knowledge and Influence:
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Sharing Evidence: Disseminate research and ways to engage Black communities, informing policy and practice.
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Championing Equity: Advocate for culturally competent mental health services and address disparities in access, driving lasting change.
Strengthening Operations:
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Sustainable Growth: Increase volunteer capacity and secure funding strategically to meet growing demand while upholding quality standards.
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Streamlined Systems: Implement a robust CRM system and prepare for geographical expansion, ensuring operational efficiency and scalability.
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Data-Driven Decisions: Enhance data collection and analysis to address funding concerns, track progress, and inform decisions for optimal service delivery.
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Building Resilience: Secure sustainable funding and explore strategies to reduce reliance on grants ensuring long-term financial stability.
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Phased Growth: Implement a clear, incremental scaling plan with defined milestones, demonstrating a strategic direction to funders and stakeholders.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (INCORPORATING THE INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT) YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
| Total Funds | Total Funds |
||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
| Note | £ |
£ | |
| INCOMING RESOURCES | |||
| Incoming resources from generating funds: | |||
| Voluntary Donations | 11,337 | 4,000 |
|
| Investmeny Income | |||
| Grants | 118,649 | 83,485 | |
| TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES | 129,986 | 87,485 |
|
| RESOURCES EXPENDED | |||
| Charitable activities | 111,134 | 72,177 |
|
| Support costs | 3,351 | 10,453 | |
| Fundraising & Legal Cost | 4,500 | 4,500 | |
| TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED | 118,985 | 87,130 | |
| NET INCOMING RESOURCES FOR THE YEAR | 11,001 | 355 |
|
| RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS | |||
| Total funds brought forward | 4,465 | 4,110 |
|
| TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD | 15,466 | 4,465 |
The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses in the year and therefore
a statement of total recognised gains and losses has not been prepared. All of the above amounts relate to continuing activities.
The notes on pages 18 to 19 form part of these financial statements.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30 JUNE 2024
| 2024 | 2023 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note | £ |
£ | £ | |
| FIXED ASSETS | ||||
| Tangible assets | 29,900 | 29,900 | ||
| INVESTMENT | ||||
| Unlisted Investment | ||||
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||||
| Debtors | 4,465 | |||
| 4,110 | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 1 | 355 | ||
| -------------------- |
--------- | |||
| 4,466 | 4,465 | |||
| CREDITORS: | ||||
| Amounts falling due within one year | (18,900) | |||
| NET CURRENT ASSETS | (14,434) | 4,465 | ||
| -------------------- | ||||
| NET ASSETS | 15,466 | 4,465 | ||
| ============ | ||||
| FUNDS | ||||
| Restricted | 0 | 0 | ||
| Unrestricted income funds | 15,466 | 4,465 | ||
| -------------------- | ||||
| TOTAL FUNDS | 15,466 | 4,465 | ||
| ============ |
These financial statements were approved by the members of the committee on March 31, 2025 and signed on their behalf by:
Abigail Abara
Abigail Omoye Abara (Chairperson, Board of Trustees) 31[st] March 2025
The notes on pages 18 to 19 form part of these financial statements.
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of accounting
The financial statements of CCD have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with applicable United Kingdom accounting standards, the Statement of Recommended Practice "Accounting and Reporting by Charities" issued in March 2005 (SORP 2005) using the Receipts and Payment basis.
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 company is small.
Fixed assets
All fixed assets are initially recorded at cost.
Depreciation
Depreciation is calculated so as to write off the cost of an asset, less its estimated residual value, over the useful economic life of that asset as follows:
Equipment - 25% WDV Building work - 25% WDV Motor Vehicles - 25% WDV
2. INCOME
| Donations Voluntary Donations Investment Interest Grants Total |
Restricted Funds £ 110,500 110,500 |
Unrestricted Funds £ 11,337 8,149 19,486 |
Total Funds 2024 £ 11,337 118,649 129,986 |
Total Funds 2023 £ 4,000 69,324 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 572,270 |
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
3. COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES BY FUND TYPE
| Unrestricted | Total | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restricted | Funds |
Funds | |
| Funds | Funds | 2024 |
2023 |
| £ | £ | £ | |
| Community Advancement | 111,134 |
111,134 |
33,249 |
| Support costs | 7,8541 |
7,851 |
38,928 |
| -------------------- | -------------------- | ||
| 118,982 | 118,982 |
72,117 | |
| ============ | ============ |
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CANCER CARE DIASPORA NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2024
Independent Examiner's Report to the members of CCD Trustees
To the trusees and members of Cancer Care Diaspora with Charity number 1178766. I report on the accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024, which are set out on pages 16 to 19.
The members of 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:
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examine the accounts under section 145 (5)(b) of the 2011 Act,
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to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission and
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to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
My examination was carried out in accordance with 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 the 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.
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention;
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which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material respect,the requirements:
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to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the 1993 Act; and
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to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 1993 Act have not been met.
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To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Nii Otu Quaye FCCA FFA
11 Louvain Close Manchester Lancashire M18 8SJ 31[st] March 2025
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