Street Paws Registered Charity No. 1178826
Trustees' Report and Financial Statement for the year ended 31 August 2024
Street Paws
| Name: | Street Paws |
|---|---|
| Charity no: | 1178826 |
| Structure: | Charitable Incorporated Organisation governed by a constitution. |
| Trustees: | Susan McCabe |
| Rachel Warren | |
| Amy Young | |
| Adam Hemming | |
| Penny McIntyre | |
| Sarah Lawton | |
| Agata Witkowska | |
| Catriona Granger | |
| Rachel Bean | |
| Trustees are elected by the membership at each Annual General | |
| Address: | Advance Northumberland |
| Blyth Workspace | |
| Quay Road | |
| Blyth | |
| Northumberland | |
| NE24 3AF | |
| Bankers: | Lloyds Bank |
| Independent | Mark Thompson MAAT |
| Examiner: | VODA |
| Spirit of North Tyneside Wing | |
| 2nd Floor, Wallsend Customer First Centre | |
| 16 The Forum | |
| Wallsend | |
| NE28 8JR |
The Trustee's present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 August 2024.
The financial statements comply with current statutory requirements, the Constitution and the Statement of Recommended Practice - Accounting and Reporting by Charities (effective from January 2015)
Structure, governance and management
Street Paws operates as an independent UK charity. Street Paws (“The charity”) is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, charity registration number 1178826 (England and Wales). The charity registered with the Charity Commission on 18 June 2016 and is governed by a constitution embodying its rules and principles
Street Paws has a board of 9 unpaid trustees, referred to as our Trustee Board. The Board meets a minimum of four times a year and acts as the charity’s governing body with powers to delegate day today management to the Street Paws leadership team, as defined below. All trustees give their time voluntarily and receive no benefits from the charity. Any expenses reclaimed from the charity are set out in the accounts. Trustees are selected and appointed based on suitability, experience and commitment to the cause based on their skills and experience, both clinical and non-clinical, so that there is a good professional and cultural fit.
The leadership team, led by the Director, is responsible for the day-to-day running of the charity under authority delegated by the Trustee Board. The leadership team proposes to the Trustee Board where the charity should invest its time, money and expertise. The Trustee Board proposes an annual budget for approval and monitors financial performance accordingly. Regular trustee meetings took place during this period to ensure clear understanding and oversight of the business for all. The trustees have assessed the risks to which the charity is exposed, those relating to the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied that there are systems in place to mitigate exposure.
The Trustees review the aims and objectives of the charity each year. This report looks at the achievements and outcomes during the reporting period. The Trustees report on the success of each activity, noting how operations have benefitted local populations. The review helps Trustees to ensure that the charity’s aims and objectives remain focussed on its stated purpose. The Trustees have referred to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the Charity’s aims and objectives and when planning future activities. In particular, the trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the objectives that have been set.
Processes for risk management are clearly stated in our Health and Safety Policies and associated Risk register. Street Paws Director is Health and Safety Officer and responsible for the implementation of the Health and Safety Policy, and compliance with relevant legislation. Street Paws operates an independent UK charity and there have been no transactions with related parties.
Objectives and Activities
Street Paws purpose is to support the wellbeing of pets and their owners whilst experiencing homelessness. Our mission is to remove the barriers that prevent pet owners from accessing support, accommodation and resources with their pet. We champion the physical and psychological benefits of pet ownership and advocate for the importance of maintaining these valuable relationships. In addition, Street Paws raises awareness of its activities and raises funds to cover the costs of veterinary services, supplies, pet equipment, volunteer recruitment and training in line with its charitable aims.
Street Paws provides the following support
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Street support for accessible veterinary care for rough sleepers with pets
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Dog Champion Scheme to support temporary housing to become pet friendly.
Support from the charity is accessible by referral by Local Authority housing support or organisations working with people experiencing homelessness.
Homelessness in the UK continues to rise with over 3,900 individuals sleeping rough each night in 2024 which is an increase of 30% in the previous year (Shelter 2024). Approximately 1 in 4 homeless people own pets, yet only 10% of hostels currently allow animals, leaving many with the difficult choice between abandoning their pet or forgoing shelter. 97% choose to remain on the streets rather than relinquish their pets.
Homelessness significantly elevates the risk of both physical and mental health issues. Amidst these challenges, pet ownership can provide emotional and psychological support. Research confirms the positive impact of pet ownership on health including improved heart health fitness and mental health, improved emotional resilience and a greater sense of purpose and responsibility. These benefits are particularly significant for unhoused individuals who often cite their pet as their only source of love, stability and a reason to keep going in difficult times.
By recognising and supporting the unique bond between homelessness individuals and their pets, homeless services offer a more holistic and effective care. Pet friendly policies in shelters and outreach programmes can help reduce barriers to accessing support whilst ensuring both owners and their pets receive the care they need to move towards stability and find housing and improved health outcomes.
Street Paws Dog Champion Scheme addresses the unique challenges faced by homeless pet owners. By partnering with hostels and temporary housing providers the scheme creates pet friendly spaces that ensure individuals never have to choose between their beloved pet and safe shelter. This initiative is vital because it removes significant barriers to support for homeless pet owners.
We train hostel staff in dog behaviour and canine first aid, equipping them with the skills to care for accommodate pets. Hostels also receive resources such as pet policies, procedures and essential pet supplies enabling them to overcome concerns about safety and welfare. The scheme also provides free veterinary treatment, vaccinations, microchipping, and ongoing health support for the pets of those experiencing homelessness.
The Dog Champion Scheme helps pet owners build skills and confidence, empowering them to secure permanent housing. Services such as creating pet CVs and behavioural training enhance the likelihood of landlords accepting tenants with pets.
By prioritising the human-animal bond, the Dog Champion Scheme not only increases the ability to find housing for homeless pet owners but also ensures they and their pets thrive together, boosting service engagement, promoting healing, stability, and community cohesion.
During the financial year 2023-2024 Street Paws referred 51 pets for veterinary treatment
There is still a lack of pet friendly accommodation nationally and in the period of September 2023August 2024 we received 244 requests for support where no pet friendly accommodation was available (145 requests 22-23).
Achievements and Performance
During the financial period 2023/2024 Street Paws had a Trustee board of 9. We welcomed 5 new trustees Rachel Warren, Adam Hemming, Amy Young, Penny McIntyre and Sarah Lawton. These trustees were recruited to fulfil specific skill sets, these include: HR, Marketing and Media which complement the existing trustee skills and experience.
We also expanded the team to include our first paid fundraising position taking total staff number to 4 paid staff.
Street Paws charitable activities focus on homelessness and animal welfare and are undertaken to further Street Paws charitable purpose for the public benefit. The Charity continues to expand services notably the Dog Champion Scheme. Alongside the dedicated learning platform for hostel staff, we have introduced a section for homeless pet owners to provide information on providing the best care for your pet including food and exercise, how to spot illness, and a guide to the law around pet ownership. We have also introduced a pet CV which owners can complete to allow perspective landlords to get to know their pet. We believe that this owner training supports unhoused pet owners to move from temporary accommodation into more permanent housing.
The online access to our training portal has encouraged a larger cohort of learners and in the year 20232024 we have enrolled 79 dog champions (52 in 22-23) (19 in 21-22).
During this financial year Street Paws has enrolled 17 hostels to the Dog Champion Scheme. Due to a continued partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority 11 hostels are located in the Greater Manchester area. We plan to use this model in 2024/2025 to reach out into new areas such as the North East of England, building partnerships and relationships with local authorities to ensure success.
Public Benefit
Street Paws exists to ensure that all pets belonging to people who are experiencing homelessness get the veterinary treatment and support that they deserve and ultimately live happy healthy lives, free from the threat of unnecessary pain and lack of veterinary care.
Pets can play a vital role in keeping humans physically and mentally happy and healthy. We at Street Paws work hard to maintain the human-animal bond that is so important. Street Paws charitable activities focus on keeping vulnerable people and their pets together
Fundraising
As a charity that receives no government funding, we are reliant on the generosity of the general public, our supporters and our partners. Street Paws subscribes to the policies of the Fundraising Regulator which oversees fundraising activity. The Fundraising Regulator investigates and, where necessary, takes appropriate action in cases of public concern. Their advice helps us ensure that our activity meets the expectations of our supporters and the wider public.
Street Paws have expanded the team this year to welcome a dedicated fundraiser to support all fundraising activities and grow and develop a fundraising strategy to enable a sustainable revenue stream.
Financial review
Street Paws have seen a slight increase in income this financial year to £93k from £91k (2022-2023). The principal sources of funds continue to be raised from public fundraising and sponsorship, sales of Street Paws merchandise on our online store, fundraising events including social media/online funding campaigns and charitable donations from the public and veterinary partners.
In 2023-2024 Street Paws were awarded £52,246 in Grants listed in the Notes to the accounts.
Despite operating in an extremely challenging financial period, alongside many charities, the trustees and Director are continuing to develop a fundraising strategy and will appoint the charities first Fundraising Coordinator in the coming year.
Principal risks and uncertainties
The Trustee Board is responsible for ensuring there are appropriate risk management and internal controls systems in place to manage the major risks to which the charity is exposed. The risk register is in place to plan for resolutions, as apposed to the elimination of risks.
Key risks are regularly reviewed and updated, including operational risks that could arise. Below is a list of the principle risks for Street Paws as well as mitigating actions.
Risk: Volunteer or staff burnout Action: Mental health training, continuation of risk assessment reviews introduction of Mental health first aider.
Risk : Loss of key funding Action: Dedicated fundraiser in place on the team to develop and deliver a fundraising plan across a broad range of donors and manage cost base to stay within available means.
Reserves policy
The aim of the Street Paws reserves policy is to ensure that the charity’s ongoing activities are protected from unexpected fluctuations in its income and expenditure to ensure that the charity is not impacted by short term financial shortfall. The charity is heavily reliant on voluntary donations to fund its charitable undertakings, which being an uncertain source of revenue may not always provide the funds to cover our essential costs.
Street Paws policy for holding free reserves is to target a level of cash that represents a minimum of 6 months core expenditure and fixed costs. Cash reserves are monitored monthly by the treasurer and reported to the Board at trustee meetings. Current charity general reserves total £137,232.
Plans for future periods
Street Paws plans to continue its growth in 2024/2025 in line with the board led strategic plan, monitored and implemented by the CEO. Key areas of development are: Outcome Goals
- Increase number of pet-friendly hostels : Achieve a measurable increase in the number of hostels adopting pet-friendly policies.
- Introduce new Volunteering Programme: Develop new Street Paws Volunteering Programme to increase capacity to support. Recruit, train and support a team of volunteers to provide support to staff and owners at our registered Dog Champion Scheme hostels to increase awareness and support from the charity and to assist with data collection. By building a team of volunteer support we are able to develop relationships with hostels and their clients more quickly, improving integration of the Dog Champion Scheme.
· Develop resources and training: Create comprehensive resources and training programmes for hostel staff on pet-friendly practices, animal welfare, and the mental health benefits of pet ownership.
- Collect data : Implement robust data collection methods to track key metrics, including pet relinquishment rates, resident mental health outcomes, and housing stability.
- Advocate for policy change: Following our founder and CEO Michelle Southern receiving the honour of OBE in the Kings New Years Honours 2024, we wish to advocate for changes in local housing policies and regulations to make pet-friendly housing more accessible and affordable.
- Collaborate with stakeholders: Build strong partnerships with animal welfare organisations, mental health providers, and housing authorities to maximise the Dog Champion scheme's impact.
Impact goals
- Reduce pet relinquishment: Significantly decrease the number of individuals forced to surrender their pets due to housing restrictions.
- Improve mental health outcomes: Demonstrate a positive correlation between pet retention and improved mental health indicators (reduced anxiety, depression, loneliness) among hostel residents.
- Increase housing stability: Increase the likelihood of successful transitions from hostel living to longterm, pet-friendly housing.
Build community: Volunteers foster a sense of community, creating connections with both the people they serve and fellow team members, strengthening the project’s relationship with the wider community.
- Raise awareness: Increase public awareness and understanding of the crucial role pets play in supporting the mental well-being of vulnerable individuals.
As a charity that receives no government funding, we remain reliant on the outstanding generosity of the public, our partners and supporters to continue to fund our vital services. We value every single donation and are very grateful to all our donors, volunteers and corporate partners for their wonderful contributions throughout the year.
Signed on behalf of Trustees
Sue McCabe
Chair of the Trustees
Independent Examiners Report
Report to the Street Paws trustees of
On accounts for 31 August 2024 Charity no 1178826 the year ended
Respective The trustees of the organisation are responsible for the preparation of responsibilities of accounts; they consider that an audit is not required for this year under trustees and section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an Independent examiner Examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to
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examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act),
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follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the
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Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Act), and
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state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of My examination was carried out in accordance with General Directions independent given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review examiner’s of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the statement 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 I do not express an audit opinion on the accounts.
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Independent In the course of my examination, no matter has come to my attention: examiner's 1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in, any material statement respect, the trustees have not met the requirements to ensure that:
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proper accounting records are kept (in accordance with section 130 of
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the Act); and
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accounts are prepared which agree with the accounting records and
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comply with the accounting requirements of the Act; or
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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.
Signed: Thursday, May 8, 2025 Name: Mark Thompson MAAT Address: VODA Spirit of North Tyneside Wing 2nd Floor, Wallsend Customer First Centre 16 The Forum Wallsend NE28 8JR
Street Paws
Statement of Financial Activities
for the year ended 31 August 2024
| Receipts Grants 2 Corporate Partnerships Donations Other Online Donations Sales Fundraising Total Receipts Payments Salary Dogs Champion Vet Procedures and Supplies OOP Expenses (Travel & Etc) Website/Computer Systems Insurance Restricted Funds Expenditure Cost of Sales Promotional Material Volunteer Uniform Show/Event Attendance costs Other Animal Welfare Equipment/Supplies Membership fees etc. Motor Vehicle Costs Accountancy Miscellaneous Total Payments Surplus / deficit for the year Funds at 1 September 2023 Funds at 31 August 2024 |
Unrestricted Restricted Total Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2024 2024 2024 2023 500 51,746 52,246 36,097 - 10,000 3,832 3,832 13,720 26,337 26,337 29,425 200 200 1,659 11,065 11,065 - |
|---|---|
| 41,935 51,746 93,681 90,901 |
|
| 55,298 19,798 75,096 34,336 13,347 13,347 - 2,485 285 2,770 2,171 1,797 1,797 1,546 1,577 1,577 1,146 649 649 811 - 39,938 - 1,047 515 515 - 1,401 1,401 - 33 33 653 44 44 31 816 816 943 843 843 931 400 400 3,432 3,432 6,829 |
|
| 69,290 33,430 102,720 90,382 |
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| 27,355 - 18,316 9,039 - 519 164,637 20,656 185,293 184,774 |
|
| 137,282 38,972 176,254 185,293 |
| Street Paws Balance Sheet 2024 £ Current assets Debtor Cash at bank and in hand 176,254 176,254 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due after one year Net Assets at 31 August 2024 Represented By: Restricted Funds Unrestricted Funds 31 August 2024 |
2024 £ 176,254 |
2024 2023 £ £ 185,293 185,293 176,254 176,254 176,254 38,972 137,282 176,254 |
2023 £ 185,293 185,293 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 185,293 | |||
| 20,656 164,637 |
|||
| 185,293 |
The financial statements were approved by the following members of the Management Committee:
Signed…………………………………. Position…………………………….. Signed…………………………………. Position……………………………..
Date
Street Paws
Notes to the accounts, 2024
1. Accounting Policies
- a 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) and the Companies Act 2006
Street Paw 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).
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b Grants received are accounted for on a received basis and credited to income.
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c Voluntary income is received by way of donations and gifts and is included in full in the Receipts and Payments Account when received.
2. Grants Receivable
Unrestricted Funds
| Unrestricted Funds | |
|---|---|
| The Hadrian Trust | 500 |
| 500 | |
| Restricted Funds | |
| Leeds Christian Community Trust | 2,500 |
| Wild At Heart Foundation | 2,500 |
| National Lottery | 20,000 |
| Pets at Home | 20,246 |
| Animal Friends | 2,500 |
| Audrey Lamb | 2,000 |
| The 1979 Willan Charitable Trust | 1,000 |
| Bentley Life Chances | 500 |
| Fine and Country | 500 |
| Total Restricted Funding | 51,746 |
3. Trustees, staff and related party transactions
| Trustees, staff and related party transactions | Trustees, staff and related party transactions | Trustees, staff and related party transactions |
|---|---|---|
| No Trustees were remunerated or received expenses payments. | ||
| Total Salary Costs | £ | 75,096 |
| No of staff was | 4 |
4. Costs of financial services
The fee for the independent examination of the 2024 accounts will be £400. No other amounts were paid for financial services.
5. Restricted Funds
d
| Analysis of Restricted Funds: Charities Aid Foundation Lush Aviva Lloyd Animal Friends Grocers Audrey Lamb The 1979 Willan Charitable Trust Leeds Christian Community Trust National Lottery Pets at Home Wild at Heart Foundation Bentley Life Chances Fine and Country Total Revenue Restricted Funds |
Open Bal Income Expend a 4,147 - 8,000 8,000 625 - 2,686 1,552 19 2,500 19 2,715 2,715 - 2,000 833 1,000 833 1,631 2,500 65 - 20,000 - 20,246 20,246 2,500 - 500 - 500 - . 20,656 51,746 33,430 |
|---|---|