2024-03-31-accounts

SPARI< SOMERSET Inspiring communities SPARK SOMERSET IA Charitable Incorporated Organisationl FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 311t March 2024 CHARITY NUMBER: 1179438

TRUSTEES, ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 REFERENCE & ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY, ITS TRUSTEES AND ADVISERS Director5 and Trustees The directors of the charitable company I'the charity") are Its Iruslees lor the purpose of charity law and throughout this report are collectively referred lo as the trustees. The Iruslees who served during the period and up lo the dale the accounts were approved are as follows.. Grahame Paine Emily Taylor Melanie Merrill Debra Drew Victoria Offord Stephen Woollett (resigned on 10109120241 Andrew Ridgewell (Resigned on 05112120231 lan John Bramley lappoinled on 0610912023} Joseph Mcgregor-harper lappoinled on 24109120241 The registered office for the period of this report is Untts 3 and 4. The Cwtyard B(y#dens Fa Harnb￿e LANGPORT TA10 OBP The bankers are Co-operative Bank IUKI PIC The Senior Stalulory Auditor Is Mr Dave Tucker, Thompson Jenner LLP, 1 Collelon Crescent, Exeler. Devon, EX2 4DG. The full name of the Charity is Spark Somersel. Charitable Incorporated Organisalion. number 1179438

Structure, Governance and Management Spark Somersel, a Charitable Incorporated Organisalion. was incorporated on 3 August 2018. The operations of Spark Somersel rnoved from the charity South Somerset Association for Volun12ry and Community Action ISSVCAI Irorn 1 January 2019. The Board ol Trustees made this decision for numerous compelling reasons. one of these being continued 5uslainability Three Iruslees from SSVCA moved lo become trustees ol the new charity, Spark Somerset. Apart from the first charty Iruslees. every trustee Is appointed for a term oflhree years by a resolution passed al a properly convened meeting ot the charity Iruslees. When 2 Iruslee has served the three- year term. they will retire from office al the subsequent Annual General Meeting and can then seek re-election None of the Iruslees has any beneficial Interest in the company A procedure has been introduced for the induction and training of trustees. The Iruslees attend board meetings every three months. The Iruslees delegate the overall management of Spark Somersel to the Chief Executive. The trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed and are s21isf1ed that systems are In place lo miligale exposure lo the major risks The Iruslees regularly review their documented risk management policies. Objeets of the Charity and Principal Activity The Iruslees have referred lo the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims and obieclives and in planning our future activitie5 The structure and conlenl of this report Is des1gned lo reflect the rèquirement lo explain how the Charity has operated within that guidance Our vision is of a Somersel where anyone can makè great things happpn for their communities. Our mission is to support and champion Somerset's voluntary and community organisalions to help change lives and build healthy, resilient communities. We're passionate about the power of community lo transform people'5 lives and enhance their health and happine55 Our values We are Collaborative We help build strong partnerships. support effective connections and Share knowledge lo achieve the gre3lesl Impact in our communities. We are empowering We value the wisdom In communities and lake pride In sharing our collective knowledge and experience lo encourage and enable others lo develop the skills and confidence they need We have integrity We strive lo bLJild trusting relationships w1th the voluntsry. community and social enterprise IVCSEI sector so that we can advocate on their behalf. positively conlribuling to decisions. and ensuring that the sector Is heard and valued as an equal partner. We are responsive We proactively seek opportunities lo learn, lake time lo listen, find creative solutions and adapt so that we. and those we support, can make a real differen￿ lo people in need. We are inclusive We are approachable. friend5y and open. We1ook lo the futLJre and explore new ways ol doing thing5, with InclLJsivily and equity at our core

Our Core Activities Support for voluntary and comrnunity groups Selling up, governance Funding advice. business planning Support via our website. social media and also through our weekly e-buSletin Volunteer management. recruitment and retention Supporting partnerships and collaboration Training 'Spark a Change, Volunteer Service We run a volunteering brokerage seNice. engaging with local communities lo improve the quantity. quality and diversity of volunteering. matching individuals lo a cause that matters lo them We a150 promote the value ol volunteering and social action and work with local partners lo ensure that il can flourish. As well as supporting individuals lo take part in social action, we encourage volunteering good practice amongst the groijps with whom we work. providing guidance, support and training Voice of the Sector The Spark Somersel team represents the voluntary sector In a range of different forums, including these examples below.. NHS Integrated Care Board Chair ol Integrated Volunteering Steering Group Somersel People Board for Health and Social Ca Neighbourhoods Board As the independent infrastructure organisation in Somersel. we represent the socal voluntary sector at community. District, County, Regional and National level. We also listen lo the needs ol the local sector so that we can shape and develop the support we provide accordingly. Reserves Policy and Risk Management It is the intention of the Trustees that the freely available reserves ol the Charity should be sufficient lo ensure the continuance ol ils aclivilies, should there be an unexpected short-lerm adverse Iluctualion in income. The Trustees consider Ihal an appropriate level of free reserve5 15 approximately three to six months, normal expenditure. This equates lo approximately £181,000- £362,000. At 31, March 2024 there was a lolal of £570, 164 01 ftjnding freely available for general purposes. The Tru51ees are satisfied that the long-lerm financial plans generate sufficient free reserves lo satisfy ils reserves policy over the coming 12 months and beyond The Trustees review the charity's Reserves Policy on an annual basis. This review Is based on the future slralegy and financial plans for Ihe charity, as well as the environment which the charity Is operating In al the time. The Trustees will make adjuslmenls lo the reserves based on Ihis review and sel them al a level that is deemed appropriate lor the coming year. Reserve policy remains al up lo six month5 in light of ever changing needs and funding. Having reviewed the reserrfes as al 31, March 2024 and taken into consideration the pending reduction in financial support from the public sector and the evolving unitary slruclure. the Trustees are satisfied that the current higher level is proportionate to the nsks faced by the charity The Trustees have examined and addressed the financial risks lo which the Charity is exposed and in association with ils insurers, has miligaled those risks lo the best of its ability.

Transactions and Financlal Position During the period the Charity incurred total expenditure of £1.268.72912023.' £924.7241 of wh1ch £1.250,42712023'. £908,821) was directly charitable. Over the year the Charity received income of £1,345,68212023 £1.026,9161 leading lo an overall surplus of £76.95312023' £102.1921. The 8a12nee sheet shows lolal reserves al 31. March 2024 of £570. 16412023 £493,2111 Chair's Report We are pleased lo share with you this report Into how Spark Somersel - in collaboration with a wide range of voluntary, community. faith, social enterprise. private and public sector partners - has been working to support Somersel and il's citizens during 2023124. The voluntary sector conlinLJes to provide many fantastic services for the population of the County. from those rooted In health and social care through to services for young people and pets Yel those who volunteer give their lime selflessly in village halls and people's homes and we celebrate them through these pages loo As 2024 ha5 arrived we see continued pressures on finances and so In the short lem we musl consider that charities musl continue lo provide their support In the most cost effective ways possible. Spark ha5 been delighled lo facililale the launch of the Somersel VCFSE Assembly with Liz Simmon5 as it's independent chair, aiming lo strengthen the voice and influence of the sector by enabling VCFSE groups lo have a say on the Issues that affect the health and wellbeing of the people and communities they support. 11 this is of interest lo you please refer lo the p2ge5 on our website. Our marvellous team al Spark Somersel are proud of the suc￿sSeS we have contributed lo within voluntary action In all ils forms from the work of local grassroots volunteers and neighbours through lo the coordinated effort5 Of large, specialist service-based charities. Thanks lo the hard work of our team new funding has been received In the sector including monies from the Shared Prosperity Funding from the UK Government We hope that this and other awards will cDnlinLJe lo benefit the sector when traditional sources such as public sector funding continues to be squeezed This is all possible thanks lo the support. hard work and commitment of volunteers. staff, funders. partners. and Iruslees. We thank them all, and we thank you for your ongoing interest and support ol Somersel's voluntary, community. faith and social enterprise sector. We conlinuou51y seek lo improve, and I hope that you will give feedback to us about what changeslimprovementlnew work you would like from the Spark Somerset team. Chair of Trustees Grahame Paine

For more than 40 years - as Spark Somersel, previously SSVCA and before Ihal Yeovil CVS we have worked with voluntary, community. faith and social enterprise organisalions lo enable them lo learn. grow. collaborate and influence. Somersel's VCFSE sector and our communities are al the heart of everything we do. 11 has been another difficult year for our sector, with financial uncertainty to navigate, rising demands lo respond lo and a growing realisalion that we absolutely have lo work together better in order lo meet the challenges ahead. Never has the work of Spark Somersel, and the role we play, been so critical. Within this conlexl, we have had lo priorilise partnerships. Our relationships are our greatest strength and we pride ourselves on our approach lo partnership working. whether that is working with the VCFSE, communities, businesses. Somersel Council. parish and town councils or the NHS There's no doubl that WÈ Ere better together. We hope this report provides you with an insight Into the positive change we are making together We would not be able lo do this wilhoul the support ol 311 the people. oiganisations, partners and funders we work with across the County. Thank you lo you all A special thanks goes lo our fanlas11C staff and volunteers. who continuously go above and beyond in their roles to support Somerset's communities. They are what makes Spark Somersel so great. This Is a snapshot of our work over the last 12 months. Our vision Is of a Somersel where anyone can make great things happen for their communities and our mission is lo support and champion Somersel's voluntary and community organisalions lo help change lives and build healthy. resilient communities. We're passionate aboLJI the power of community lo transforrn people's lives and enhance their health and happiness. We have distilled our vision and mis510n into a simple and memorable phrase". Inspiring communities is a slalement that crystallises the essence of Spark Somersel 11 defines what we do and reflects what our people and partners do every day lo achieve the genuine results we aim for. Our values really matter lo us. They are the ideas and beliets that unsle and mo11vale us and that we aspire to embody through our work. •% We are collaborative - We help build strong partnerships, support effective connections and share knowledge to achieve the greatest Impact In our communities We are empowering - We value the wisdom In communities and lake pride in sharing our collective knowledge and experience to encourage and enable others to develop the skills and confidence they need. We have integrity We strive lo build trusting relationships with voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations IVCSEI so that we can advocate on their behalf, positively contributing to decisions, and ensuring that the sector is heard and valued as an equal partner. We are responsive We proactively seek opportunities to learn, lake time to listen. find creative solutions and adapt so that we, and those we support, can make a real difference lo people in need. We are inclusive - We are approachable. friendly and open. We look to the future and explore new ways of doing things, with inclusivity and equity al our cole

SECTOR DEVELOPMENT Support the establishment and growth of VCFSE groups, improve their effectiveness and governance, and demonstrate impact. Develop collaboration and partnershlps to addrnss local and strategie priorities. 121 SuppoRT AND GUIDANCE FOR VCFSE GROUPS In the 12 months from April 2023 to March 2024. personalised guidance and 5UPPOrt has been given to 412 Somerset based VCFSE groups through face- lo-face meetings. phone. email and Live Chal Enquiries by theme The Community Development and Engagement Team continued lo work broadly based on the previous dislricls. in order lo provide one lo one, local support lo community groups and organisalions. Enquiries have remained high and we found ourselves providing a more complex level of support than has previously been the case. which has Impacted on the lolal number of groups supported during this period. This year has seen a large increase in the number of groups looking lor support with funding The c051-0f- living crisis and cuts in public sector have impacted groups significantly and continue lo do so. Larger organi5alions who have not Iradilionally required our support are finding their long-lerm sources of funding are no longer available and they are having lo look at a variety ol options. Similarly, there is more competition for ex151ing sources of funding Meaning smaller groups are also missing out. Case Study 5* Rockin, Daddy s Emporion are a community radio slalion and community hub. The radio station evolved during Covid when Joey Daniels (thè founder) started lo stream music to help his own mental health The online radio slalion developed along with the idea lo support people In Crewkerne that needed help. The team al Spark Somersel supported the group to register as a Community I nteresl Company and provided guidance on how to find funding. They are now trading in a premises in Crewkerne, their listeners have Increased and they are attracting support from local businesses. "spa￿ have been triendly and knowledgeable and hav8 guided us through. Although the radio station evolved to help my mental health, it is ObV￿U$ from the increase in listenets that we affj supporting others. We don't include bad news and only businesses that support the community advertise with us The shop is op6n and the plan is to become self-sustaining with the sale of records. CDS and memorabilia supporting the rndio station and community hub. IJPIP,Illh "Th8re are p80ple in the town who won't go to offiualplacgs forhelp. People suffering with 81coholism, drugs or isolalion. These a￿ people who are living on the edges of Soc￿ty, but because of my background, they are comfortable to come to us lo talk and we can signpost them orget them help ifthey ne8d it."

NETWORKING FORUMS &TRAINIMG From the 12-month period be￿een April 2023 and March 2024, Spark Somersel hosted a lolal of 60 events, with a lolal number of 1,722 registered attendees. Of these 60 events, 17 were training sessions. 30 were netsvorking forums and 13 had a mix of training and nemorking elements. These events had a total of 389, 930. and 403 attendees respectively. The most popular subject or area of work for these events was funding. 21 events look place over the last 12 morTrths aimed al supporting VCFSE groups with funding support Including, 'Meel the Funder, sessions. Funding Workshops for VCFSE organisations offering mental health support. and bite-sized 'Lunch & Learn. sessions hosted by experts covering specific areas of income generation. These were attended by 422 people. We also hosted 15 forums, including localion-based and Iheme-specific events that gave staff and volunteers of VCFSE organisations a chance lo network. share peer support and gel advice from members of the Spark Somersel team. These were attended by 345 people. ADDITIONAL PROJEcfs AND PROGRAMMES This section inc5udes an overview of key prograrnmes we led arid managed 5asl year - responding lo need and building capacity in Somersel communitie5 for the longer-lerm. Warm Welcome During the winter of 2022123 we were commissioned by Somersel Council to lead the development of'warm Welcome. spaces across the county The programme aimed lo support community venues and groups opening their doors to people during the winter months, offering a welcoming place lo keep warm without judgement. We also offered individual support lo venues who required help in setting up. this Included a page dedicated lo Warm Welcome providers which had 470 views. A total 0177 venues registered as a Warm Welcome. These ranged from libraries lo leisure cenlres, churches lo schools and each venue had their own unique offer providing much needed warmth and company during the winter months Open Mental Health- Community Engagement Project Our Open Mental Health Community Engagement Project started up In June 2022 with 3 Community Engagement Workers embedded within communities." listening lo groups and supporting them lo address gaps in service provision. The aim of the project was lo Improve the mental health of communities who don't traditionally engage with mental health services. Initial communities of focus were based on data and local knowledge". Neurodivergent Communities Veterans Adults with Learning Disabilitie5 Dldeaf Community Low Income Communities

NEWSLErrERS, CAMPAIGNS AND ONUNE ENGAGEMENT In addition lo the one-104)ne support we provide for VCFSE organisalions. we send regular bulletins and disseminate information and guidance vi2 our website and social media. Spark Somerset VCFSE Newsletter.. 1,825 subscribers. 10 'general' newsletters (news. events, vacancies, and funding opportunities). For the pèriod, our newsletter was opened 8.839 times and there weie 1.789 clicks on content. In addition. we sent 10 tsrgeled newsletters on key topics Including Loeal Community Ne￿orkS, the Somersel VCFSE Assembly and a survey into the financial health of the sector We also published 7 'Funding Five bu11elins which has 232 subscribers and features the lalesl grants, news, blogs 2nd training opportunities for local fundraisers. For the period, the Funding Five was opened 666 times and there were 144 clicks on content. Spark Somerset website www.s arksomerse . 22,596 lolal users 93,731 lolal page views To es viewed Jobs 5736 Funding Portal 4.916 Volunteer 4,846 News & events 4,217 During Volunteers, Week. we showcased inspiring Stories from volunleefs across the county via our social media channels. and signposted users to the Spark a Change website. Examples include Lara, a Move More Together volunteer with SASP I volunteer to give back and help people bul then find that in doing so, I meet inspiring and interesting people. My volunleering gives me a feeling of self-worth and appreciation for life. And Renale. who in this short video explains how volunteering al Paddington Farm enable5 her lo improve her gardening skills and spend time with others. During the week. there were 953 visits lo the Spark a Change website which is 14Yo more than the weekly average for the period. Celebrating the sector In September 2023, we worked with local Cic, Somersel Film. lo produce this vi eo about thè incredible work of local voluntary groups and organi5alions, and the positive impact they have on people's lives.11 has been watched over 400 times and was also featured In Our Somersel, the Somerset Integrated Care System IICSI newsletter. FUNDING Identify and promote funding opportunities and facilitate collaborative approaches to maximise funding for Somerset organisations,. develop VCFSE groups, capacity and expertise to secure external funding. 121 SuppoRT FOR VCFSE GROUPS During Ihis12St year there has been a significant increase in groups seeking support with accessing funding Cuts In pubSic sector funding, increased running costs and a reduction in donations has meant competition for funding has never been higher A total of 171 groups from across Somersel received bespoke, 1-2-1 support from either our Funding Officer or the Community Development and Engagement team.

Groups who have received direct support and advice from the funding team specifically relating lo their funding bid. such as a bid review, has rèsulted in successful outcomes of just under £300,000. Further bids from this period are pending, lo a value of £166.000 and we expecl lo see the financial return of some of our work supporting other areas of income 9ener31ion over a much longer period. Aside from bids we have had a direct involvement in, we also work with a number of organisalions lo support them along their journey lo making an application. This could be with governance. policies and procedures, safeguarding or any other areas needed lo help strengthen their funding bids to give the best ehance ol suecess. Funders are increasingly signposting groups and organisations to us for the support work that is often required before groups can begin to Wfile a bid and this Is Likely lo continue. Somersel groups we have worked with over the course of the year lo become 'funding-ready' have been SUC￿5sfUllY awarded nearly £1.2m of funding. Case Study Minehead Development Trust came lo us looking for core funding lo sustain their charity. project funding lor the conlinualion ol their community projects and events, Including the Minehead Bay Festival. We supported the group with their funding bid lo several funders, including the National Lottery and the Hinkley Point C Funds, which resulted In them being awarded £210k. "The support that we have ￿Cewed from Spath Sometset h8s been invaluable. We can't 8xpress howgraleful we are for the help and advice we hav8 received. Thanks to support and advice from Spark, we have been able lo s6cure 3 years ol Gore aiid project costs to ensure the sustainability of our chanty and staff, while also being able lo recruit an addition81 memberofst8ff to help scale our Operat￿nS up.. Zara Ailken. Project Coordinator SECTOR DEVELOPMENT- INCREASING CAPACITY FOR FUNDRAISING We continued to produce our Fun¢ing Five newsletter which Is directe¢ al fundraisers across Somersel. Each monthly edition focLJses on al lea51 one local or national funder or funding opportunity, a blog post with advice on a key element of fundraising, links and recommendations to media and useful resources lor fundraisers. Spark a Change In addition lo our 1".1 support we have also provided several training and networking opportunities for group5 to access.. Boost your bid writing and bring a bid workshops allended by 66 people Fundraisers Network atten(Sed by 15 people Meet the Funder events attended by 102 people The Meet the Funder events have been very popular and sessions have been delivered by Clark Foundation, National Lottery and Children in Need We have also offered a Series ol 'lunch and learn. sessions which have come from the Reflect. Recover, Renew IRRRI work and were arranged by the RRR Project Manager These focused on social investment. corporate fundraising, fundraising strategies and legacy giving and were attended by 149 individuals. VOLUNTEERING AND SOCIALACTION Stimulate social action- supporting volunteers and encouraging businesses and individuals to take a greater role in their communities. In the pa5112 month5 we have supported the following activity through Spark a Change, Somersel's digital volunteering platform".

716 new volunteers registered lo volunteer. 99 new groups Joined the plattorm. 354 volunteering opportunities promoted. . 445 volunteers 'signed up, to an opportunity Between 1st April 2023 10 31st March 2024 there were 33,461 unique visitors to Spark a Change, averaging over 2,788 per month. This is an overall increase of almost 100/0 compared lo the same period last year. Organisations registered on Spark a Change identify up lo 3 causes their charitylgroup exists to help with. In the last 12 months the most popular causes were community and family. wellbeing, and children and youth Least represented causes Include foreign aid and disaster relief. gender equality, and those which are faith- based. SuppoRT FOR ORGANISATIONS We have 5UPPOrted 94 organisations with requests including help lo eslab11sh corporate volunteering. Iraining on the Spark a Change platform and recruilmenl and policy advice lor the involvement ol vtslunleers. During the 12-moNlh period we hosted 6 in person and 4 virtual Volunteer Coordinator Forums. Themes and guest speakers have Included. harnessing video. difficult conversations with volunteers. sludenl volunteering. diversity in volunteering, 5 ways lo wellbeing training and a vision for volunteering workshop. Examples of how we have helped.. Implemented the creation ol an extranet platform equipped with a comprehensive array of lemplales and resources tailored specifica15y for Volunteer Coordinators This platform serves as a cenlralised hub, allowing Volunteer Coordinators access lo a wealth of relevant information essential for effective volunteer management. Established a dedicated Discord channel designed for organisations seeking guidance and 3UPPOrt, fostering an interactive community where they can freely seek advice, share insights. and ask questions. The Volunteer Pool continues lo grow and organisalions have been successful in reaching out lo individuals who would like lo volunteer.. "We needed to recruit a lot ofvolunteers quickly and by using the Spart volunteerpool we w8re able lo target people expressing an interest in what w8 W8r8 offering. This allowed us to let people know about the opportunity who may have a genuine inleresl in it and it led to us r8cruiting enough volunteers to launch new project." SWAN advocacy SuppoRT FOR INDIVIDUALS TO ACCESS VOLUNTEERING We provide personalised asS151ance lo Individuals seeking volunteering opportunities tall0￿d lo their preferences and circumstances. While many potential volunteers can easily find opportunities through our user-friendly Spark a Change platform. we understand that this approach might not be suitable for everyone. Our goal Is lo eliminate obstacles lo volunteering for those who may face challenges acce551ng digital services or lack the necessary skills lo navigate Ihem effectively. Some examples of how we provide personalised support lo people wanting lo volunteer.. 'A' came into the Spark Somerset office as he was lookinq for adminislralion volunleerinq lo build up his skills lor future employment. Our team provided personalised as51Stance, guiding him through the registration process on Spark a Change and identifying suitable opportunities. We connected him with a volunteering position al Citizens Advice in Yeovil. iioi

called as looking for a volunteering opportunty bul wanted lo talk lo someone from the Spark Somersel team first as had suffered with his mental health and wanted lo build his confidence back up. He wanted to volunteer on Christmas Day but also find a long-lerm opportunity. 'L' applied for volunteering opportunities with Mind and Rethink and also undertook a Christmas Day volunteering opportunity with Wellsprings Community Church. VOLUNTEERING DEVELOPMENT- COLLABORATION AND ENGAGEMENT Collaborated with Bridqwaler and Taunton College lo orchestrate a sludenl volunteer fair in January 2024, showcasing the Invaluable benefits of volunteering lo students. The event lacililaled meaningful connections be￿een various organisalions and individuals interested in volunteering, fostering a positive and Impacttul environment 'Wonderful eventl Not only lo engage and infom younger peopl& about our opportunities, but also it's been great lo network with other organisalions. Really great to speak lo young people, some of whom, seem really interested in volunteering. Thank youff, Amy Wigglesworth, National Trust Organised a volunteer tree planting event with asylum seekers at J24 Hotel in collaboration with CHARIS who provided transport. RAFT who provided warm clothes for the residents. and Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme who facililaled the trèe planting activity. Our Facebook group 'Volunteers in Somerset, Continues to grow and currently has 1,S16 members. On an ongoing basis we work with charities across the County lo create and publish case studie5 that can be used to Inspire others to volunteer. A particular focus lor these is dLJring volunteers, week11-7 June). Our case studies Ilinks below) reflect the divèrse potsl tsf volunteers we have in Somersel. rk The ower of listenin Mais arole's sto ark a Chan Abb 's volunteerin sto S ark a Chan lunleerin 510 ark EMPLOYER SuppoRTED VOLUNTEERING The last 12 months has seen an increase in enquiries for and focus on corporate volunteering days, employer supported volunteering and Iruslee roles. We have created 2 for this on Spark a Change with some bespoke case studies and highlighted opportunities. Case study.. Mulberry Mulberry, an International fashion brand. reached out to LJS seeking guidance on finding a charitable organisalion that could accommodate a group of employer- supported volunteers for a meaningful leam-building activity. 'To facilitate the organisation of the volunteering day, we reached out lo Spark Somersel, and were connected with the Quanlock LandsGaKie Partnership Schen7e (QLPS) This provided us with an invaluable volunteering opportunity that we wouldn t have otherwise been aware of. 11 streamlined the process and enabled us to make a meaningful impact on our community and environment. ' Dion Bell. Team Lead nlhe uantock Hills S ark a Chan

VOICE, ENGAGEMENT AND INFLUENCE Improve and support communication and collaboration within and between sectors; strengthen the voice and influence of the sector to shape and design policy and deliveryi act as independent advocate for Somerset's VCFSE sector This seclion highlights our strategic role for partnerships and engagement as the lead VCFSE inlraslruclure body for Sorner5et. REFLEcr, RECOVER, RENEW-WHATWE DID NEKr The Reflect, Recover, Renew research project - completed in late 2021 -identified a shared vision for a thriving volunl8ry. community. faith and social enterprise IVCFSEI sedor in Somerset. In May 2023 we engaged with some 50 VCFSE groups across the county to establish a number oftask and finish groups, to keep the vision firmly in focus and explore practical ways to lake Il forward. A core group of 27 people from 25 different VCFSE organisalions formed into 3 Task and Finish groups and mel monthly through to February 2024. Practi￿1 outcomes from the work of these groups Include.. The completion of a Financial Health snapshot Survey by 100 VCFSE groups Its Inform the content of fulure training and support The delivery of a range of'Lunch and Learn- Diversifying Income, sessions, delivered by high quality trainers lo give groups Ihe practical tools and knowledge they need lo start lo reduce their over reliance on grant Income Direct Input lo the meetings of the Somerset Funders group, to argue the case for a more flexible and largeled approach lo grant support as a 'one off during this period of particular challenge in the county The eslabSishmenl of a 'Comms and Marketing, Peer support group, both to enable those slafflvolunleers working In this role in smaller VCFSE groups lo be supported by specialist posts In larger orsani5ations. and to build recognition for the sector by joinins force5 lor awareness raising campaigns A vo5unlary sector YouTube playlist ol videos about local organisalions and the impact they have on people's lives. Delivery of Iraininglsupport for smaller groups lo produce short videoslfilms and case studies of their work. lo be used both a5 marketing tools and lo help better demonstrate Impact lo funder5 Many areas of work carried forward via the Task and Finish groups are now feeding into projects we are currently developing and delivering. with funding awardecl from the Shared Prosperity Fund ISPFI. For example, the further exploration of the potential for shared impact measurement and data reporting for VCFSE groups carried out by the 'Recognised' group. is informing our work on the Insights Hub project. Members of the 'Recognised' group wi15 be directly involved with the pilot work on this. Likewise, the discussion around the potential lor sharing staff functions by the Appropriately Funded group have contributed lo the design of our Skill Share project, again as part of SPF funded work The Task and Finish groups are continuing lo Input in other ways. For example, the Community Led group is directly involved with an ICS working group. ensuring the unique voices of variou5 groups within our communities are heard as part ol discussion about the design of personalised eare planning.

VCFSE/PuBLlC SECTOR ENGAGEMENT Work lo develop and strengthen collaborative working between the VCFSE and the public sector has continued lo be a key priority for us throughout this period In September 2023 Somersel ICB. Somersel Council and the VCFSE sector signed 3 Memorandum of Understanding IMOUI that commits system partners lo engage and embed the VCFSE sector In syslem-level governance and decision making arrangements. along51de collaborating lo deliver better health and wellbeing outctsmes. h rk ukj nin -MoU-a reemenl Informed by a workshop we convened In March 2023 and signed by senior represenlalives from across the system, il was the first lime that leaders have come together at such scale lo demonslrale their commitment lo working together. During this period, we worked closely with colleagues across the IC8 and the Council and coordinated a number of collabor21ive events We held two Assembly events throughout the year, attended by almost 200 people. where participants Could learn more about the challenges and opportunities ahead. and ask questions about the new ICB and unitary authority. We look steps lo develop a new, more inclusive VCFSE Leaders Group, so that we could begin lo involve more colleagues in the strategic conversations beyond the Somersel Group of Charities who were the Initial calalysl for this work. We invited 40 leaders from key health and social eare harities lo a Leaders meeting in January and were joined by Jonathan Higman, CEO of the IC8 and Alyn Jones, Executive Director for Strategy, workfor￿ and Localities al Somerset Council. Key priorities identified Included.. Recognition lor the sector Data sharing and collective impact measurement Improved and trusting relationships with commissioners These priorities very much align with the findings of Reflect. Recover. Renew and we have taken steps lo respond lo this - although the subsequent activity look place In the following financial year, which is not part of thi5 report. As described previously, the VCFSE, including Spark, are increasingly attending a wide variety of public sector led and wider partnership meetings. This has been particularly challenging during this period, due lo the pressures on the public sector. The list below provides a snapshot of the meetings we currently contribute lo, on behalf of the sector. ADDifioNAL PROGRAMMES:'SYsTEM' PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Partnership and collaboration is a significant, and growing, area of work for us. With limited resources and growing demand. there is more need than ever for us lo work together Our local. place-based work1ng Is often based on partnerships working, whether il is bringing people together in a local forum or connecting specific organisalions around a theme. In addition lo this, we convene. lead or coordinate a number of ongoing partnerships and networks." Somerset Mental Health Network The Somerset Mental Health Network is a collaboration of voluntsry and community organisalions. lailh groups and social enterprises involved in delivering mental health services lo people with poor mental wellbeing. and those who care for and support them.

Research Engagement Network IRENI A collaborative ICS project that saw ICB, STF. Public Health and the VCFSE work together lo understand barriers to participation in research Spark Somerset enabled the project to work with 7 organisalions from a range of geographies and communities lo participate in the research. training leaders to become Research Champions and understanding and learning about why health research opportunities have limited participation. Somerset Youth Work Alliance A collaboration of VCSFE youth work providers, this project secured a 3 year grant from the National Lottery in May 2023 to grow the infrastructure. and profile of youth work locally land beyond) and support the workforce with training. support and collaboration. VCFSE Somer5et Dementia Partnership The Somersel VCFSE Dementia Partnership has continued lo grow with over 60 organisations signed up to receive information, and around 30 organisations actively participating In strategic discussions around dement18 services improvement. Food Resilience Group In early 2023. we began Work on a Somersel Council funded piece of work focused on Food Resilience. We were tasked with forming a Steering Group of key partners and three Task & Finish groups focused on the following areas", Supply & Distribution allernalive food sourcès & fair distribution. Cooking Skills & Equipment - ensuring all groups have access to high quality training and have their equipment needs mel, considering cultural difference. Pathways to Resilienee create a charter to commit groups lo moving away from emergency support and provide wraparound suppon. SOCIAL PRESCRIBING Support and develop formal and informal volunteering opportunities- communication of health and care-related topics. develop and maintain networks with VCFSE groups and other stakeholders involved in social prescribing. Much of our core work relates lo this priority, in that the groups we provide advice and guidance lo are supporting the health and wellbeing ol communities Therefore, all areas ol this report relate lo this. In addition. we sijpported the following specific activity". SOCIAL PRESCRIBING-COMMUNITY CoNNEcfoRS Jenny Hartnoll has worked as a consultant hosted by Spark Somersel since January 2023 with funding from the Lockwood Foundation. The funding agreement Is that the consu112ncy role is lo support organisalions that are Interested in 'connector' type work and to create links be￿een Somersel and National Academy of Social Prescribing Supported organisalions lo explore how they can build the Connector model into their work. Supported Public Health with the successful bid lo the National Institute ol Health and Care Research. Supported the Carers service lo develop Carer's Connector training which will be shared more widely once piloted in Somersel. 1141

Developed a Connector 1001kil which will be shared across the UK and beyond". Jm DIGITAL INCLU510N AND WELLBEING-THE SPARK IT PROJE The Spark IT project aims to support individuals lo build their confidence and learn digital skills. The Spark IT project now Includes a portfolio of 15 Digital Cafès facililaled within community spaces by a cohort of 38 volunteer Digit21 Champions who have had over 2,000 client interactions in the last 12 months. SPARK IT. your dTrshial discovery To support a range of clients. the Spark IT team has delivered talks and training lo a range of groups, fostered local partnerships and hosted ad hoc digital drop Ins or roadshows This ha5 Included links with young family groups, job seekers, homeless charities, Talking Cafès. Village Agents. local libraries. food cupboards and community fridges, carers, hospital patients and GP surgeries. "The Digital Café has become a beacon of inclusivity, breaking down barriers and C￿￿tIng an environment Whe￿ everyone, regardless of ag& or background, can thrive in the digital landscape The positive outcomes in terms of enhanced digital lileraoy. improved mental health, access to ord&ring online prescriptions and the ability to obtain GP consultations via video call highlight the vit81 role your organisalion plays in shaping a healthier and more connected West Somersel." Mark Shields, Locality Manager, Village Agents We were also delighted lo win a national award winning first p5ace in the Digital Inclusion category at the Inlernel Service Provider Association Awards. SOMERSET C4RER5 SERVICE-COMMUNITY-BASED SUPPORT FOR UNPAID CARERS We support the Somerset Carer5 service, providing support for carers groups and volunteers. Throughout this period. We supported 27 carers groups Groups were attended by 345 carers Supported volunteer leaders lo run safely and provide an engaging programme of speakers and activities "l enjoy sharing tim6 with people on their caring joumeys and being able lo support them at times ofneed, including bereavement, which has beon rewarding. We have a wonderful CaTrrs Group and I feelproud of what wo have accon7plished 0￿r a relatively short period of lime." 1151

Spark Somerset Statement of Trustees. Responsibilities The trustees are responsible for p￿paring the trustees, report and the financial statements in accordance with the United Kingdom Accounting Standards (Unrted Killgdom Generally Accepted Accounting Piacticel and applicable law and regulations. The law applicable to charities requires the trustee5 to prepare financial slalerrenls for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the slate ol affairs of the charity and of the incoming resourTrs and application of resour￿5 of the charity for that period. In piep8ring these fin8ricial statements, the trustees are required to". select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently". observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP.. make judgements and estirnates that are reasonable and prudent.. st8le whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disdosed and explained in the financial staternents.. and prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presurne that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping propel accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the fiNanci81 position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements cornply with the Charities Act 2011. the Gharilies (Accounts and Reportsl Regul8lions 2008, and the provisions of the Constitution The trustees are also responsible for safeguarding the asset5 of The trustee5 are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial Information included on the charitable company's website. Legislation goveming the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislalion in other jurisdictions. Approved by the trustee5 of the charity on 4th December 2024 and signed on ils behalf by.. G R Painè Trustee Page 16

Spark Somerset Independent Auditor'5 Report to the Mernbers of Spark Somerset Opinion We have audited the financial 5tatemerits of Spark Somer5et (the 'charity'l for Ihe year enlled 31 March 2024, which cornpri5e ihe Stalernent of Financial Activities. Balance Sheet. Cash Flow Sl3temenl. and Notes to the Financial Slalemenls, including a surnmary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is United Kingdom Accounting Standards, comprising Charities SORP - FRS 102 'The Financial Reporting Siandaid ?pplic3ble In the UK and Republic of Irpland. and applicable law (Unrted Kingdorn Gener3lly Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements.. give 3 true and fair view of the Slate of the charity's affairs as 3t 31 March 2024 and of its Incoming re3ource8 and applicatyon of resources. Induding Ils income and expenditure, for the year then Ènded, have been property prepared in accordance wrth United Kingdorn Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.. and hove been prepared in accordance wth the requirernents of the Charities Act 2011. Basis for opinion WÈ ctsnducted our audit In accordance International Standards on Auditing IUKI IISAS IUKII and applicable lèw. Our respon5ibililie5 under those Standards are fvrther described In the auditor responsibilities for the au(511 of the financial statements section of our report. We are Independent of the charity in accordance with the ethie81 requirements that are relevant tD our audit of the financial statements In the UK. Including the rftc'& Cthical ￿tandard, and we have fulfilled our other ethiG41 responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for Dur opinion. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditin9 the finan¢i31 statetnent5, we have concluded that the Iruslees use of the going concem basis of accounting In the preparation of the f nancial statetnents 15 appropriate. Based on the work we have performed, we have not identrfied any rnalerial uncertainties rel£ting to events or conditions that. individualty or collectively, may cast significant doubl on the charity's ability lo continue as a going concern for a periDd of at least twelve months from when the original financial Statements were aulhorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect lo going concern are described In the relevant sections of this report. Other information The trustees afe responsible for the other Information. The other Inforrnalion comprises the infoimation Included In the annual ieport, other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not Cover the other Information and. except 10 the e￿tent OlheN41se explitylty stated In our ￿pOrt, we do not express any fom of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the finan¢i81 ststemenls, our responsisility is lo read the other information and. In doing so, consider whether the other Information Is materially Inconsistent wlh the nancial sialemenis or our kno￿ledge obtained In the audit or otheTW5e 3ppears 10 be materially misstated. If we Identify such material inconsistencies or apparent matenal mi5slatemenls. we are quired lo delerrnine whether there Is a material misslalem&nl in Ihe financial slalemenls or 3 rnalerial mis5talernenl of the other Information. If, based on the work we have performed. we conclude that there Is a material misslalement of this other information. we are required lo report that fact. Page 17

Spark Somerset Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Spark Somerset Icontinued) We hav& nothing lo report In tt)Is regard. Comparativ8 information The comparative Information is audited. Matters on which we are required to report by exception In thè lighl of our knowledge and understanding of the th2rily dn(t It5 environrDenl obtained in the course of the audit. we have not identified material misstatements In the Tru51ee5' Report. We have nothing lo report in resp&cl of the followwng tnatters where the Charities (Accounts and Report) Regulations 2008 requires US tts report to you If, in c>ur opinion-. 8dequale ac¢ounling re¢or(ls have not been kept, or retums adequate fDr our audit have not been received from branches not v1511ed by us-. or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns,. or certain disclosures of trustees remuneraliDn sp&tified by law are not tnade". or we have not received all the inftsrmalion and explanations we require for our audit. Responsibilities of trustees As explained morp fully in the Statement of Trustees. Responsibilities Isel out on page 161. the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial stat&menls and for being sa115fied that they give a true and fair view, and for such Internal control as the Irust&Ès deterrnine Is necessary lo enable the preparation ol fin8ncial statements that Ere free from maten81 misstaiement. whether due lo Iraud or error. In oreparing the financial 51alemenls. the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability lo ¢DniiDue as a going contÈrn, Oisclc>sing. as applicable. matters related lo going concern and using the going con¢ern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative bul to do $0. AuditOT ResponsibilitiÈs for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtsin ieasonzble assurance about whether the financial 8talemenls as a whole are free from material missialemenl, whether due lo fraud or ètror, and lo issue an auditor's report that Includes our opinion. R&asonable assurance is a high level of assurance, bul is not a guarantee that 8n audit cDnduclÈd in accordance with ISAS IUKI will a￿3y9 detect a material misstatement when It exists. MisslatÈmenlg can arise from fraud or error and are con51dered material if, individually or in the aggregate. they could reasonably be expected lo Influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud. are instances of non-compliance Mnlh laws and regulations. We design procedu￿$ in line with our responsibilitres. oudined above lo dete¢1 material m155lalemenls In respect of Irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, Including fraud is detailed below. The Èxtent to which the audit was considered capable tsl detecting irregutarities intluding fraud Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstalemenl In respect of irregularities. including fraud and non-compliante with laws and r&gulatiDns. was as follows-. the engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate competence, ¢apabilities and skills to identify or recognis& non-compliance with ap￿icable laws and regulations". Page 18

Spark Somer5et Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Spark Somerset Icontinuedl we identified the laws and reyulaiions applicable tD thè charity through discussions With tru51ee$ and other management, and trom our commercial knth￿edge and experience of the Charity 5tr¢t<>r, we focused on specific laws and regulations which we considered may have a direct material effect on the financial statements Cir the Dperalions of the charity. including the Cotnpani&s Act 2006. Charities Act 2011, taxation legislation, data protection. anti-bribery, employment, enviiontnental, fire safety and health and safety le9islalion, we assessed the Èxtent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making enouiries of management. reviewng licenses. certificates and relevant correspondÈnce including the Inspection of legal correspondence." and identified laws and regulaiions were ¢ommunic3ted within the audit team regulady and the team remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit. We assessed the susceptibility of Ihe chaiity's financial ststetnents 10 material misstatement, Including obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by". making enquine5 of TnarEagement as 10 where they considered there wa8 susceptibility to fraud, their knovAedge of èclual. suspected and alleged fraud, and considering the Iniemal controls In place lo mitigate risks DI fraud and non<ompliance wth laws and re9ulations. To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of contrDls, we. perforrned analWical procedures to Identify any unusual or unexpected relationships.. tested iournsl entries to identify unusual Ir3nsactions-. assessed wthether judgements and assumptions made in determining the accounting estimates were indicative of potential bias., and invesiigaied the ra110nale behind Significant or unusual transactions. In responsp to the nsk of Irregularities and nonwcompliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures which included, but were not litnited lo agreeing financial statèment disclosures lo undertying supporting documentation., reading the minute5 of rneelings of those charged with governance,. enquiring of management a5 to actual and potential Iiligalion and claims-. and review5ng correspondence wryth HMRC. relevant iegulaiors and the charity's legal advisors. There afe Inherent limitst50ns in our audrt procedures described 2bovÈ. The more removed that laws and regu5alions are from financial transactions, the le55 likely il Is that WÈ would become aware of non-¢ompliance. Auditing standards also Iimrt the audit procedures required lo Identify non-¢ompli3nce with law5 and regulations lo enquiry of the trustees and other management and the inspection Df regulatory and legal correspondence, Il any. Material mis$tatÈments that arise due to fraud can be harder to detect than those that arise trom error as they may Involve deliberate Goncealmenl or ¢ollusion. A further description of our ￿sponSibl11t1eS is available on the Financi21 RÈporting Council's website £t". wwi.frc.ory.uklauditorsresponsibililies. Thi5 description forms part of our audrtor's report. Page 19

Spark Somerset Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of Spark Somerset Icontinued) U$e tsf our rpport This rep¢)rt Is made solely lo the chanly trustees, as 8 bo(ly, In atcordance with sÈttion 144 of the Charities Act 2Q11 and regulations made under Section 154 of that Act. Our audit work has bèen undertaken so that w& might slate lo the trustees those mamers we are required lo slate lo Iruslees In an auditors, report 2nd for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law. we do not accept or assume responsibility tts anyone other Ihan the charity and Its Iwst&es as a body. for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have forfned. Dave Tutker FCCA Isenior Slalutory Auditor) For and Dn beh21f of Thompson Jenner LLP. siatulory Auditor 1 Colleton Crescent Exeter Devon EX2 40G Date.".. .l.Izl2y.... Page 20

Spark Somerset Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Unre$trl¢ted funds Restricted funds Totsl 2024 Noto Incorn8 and Endowm8nts from- Donations and legacie5 175,141 163.533 5,865 175,141 1,164.67e 5,865 1.001.143 Investment Income Tol31 Income 344,539 1.001.143 1.345,682 Expenditure on.. Raising funds Charitable activities 118,3021 249,2841 118,3021 11.250,427 1.001,1431 Total expenditure Net income 267,586 1.001,143 1.268,729 76,953 76.953 Net movement In funds 76,953 7S,953 Reeontiliation of fund$ Total funds brought forward 493.211 493,211 Total funds carried forward 18 570 164 570.164 The note5 on pages 25 to 42 forrn an integral part of these financial 51alement5. Page 21

Spark Somerset statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinued} Unrestricted lund5 Restricted funds Total 2023 Note Income and Endowmènts from.. Donations and legacies Charitable 2c11vibes 180.800 272.299 180,800 846,116 573,817 Total incom 453,099 573,817 1.026.916 Expenditure on.. Raising funds Charitable eclNities 115.9031 335 004 115,9031 908.821 573,817 Total expenditure 350 907 573,817 924 724 Net Income 102.192 102.192 Nel movement in funds 102.192 102,192 Reconciliation of funds Tot21 funds brought forward 391.019 391,019 Total funds carried forward 18 493.211 493 211 All of the chanty's aelivilies deTrvÈ trom continuing operations dunng the above two periods. Th2 funds breakdown for 2023 Is shown In note 18. The notes on pages 25 to 42 form an integral part of these financial statements. Page 22

Spark Somerset (Registration number.. 11794381 Balance Sheet as at 31 March 2024 2024 2023 Note Fixed asset$ Intangible a55ets Tangible assets 12 13 22,091 4,150 21,437 5,089 26,526 Current assets Debtors Cash al bank and in hand 14 15 396.181 937.884 1,334.065 280,166 1,017,322 1,297,488 Creditors- Amounts falling due within one year 16 790 142 830 803 Net current assets 543.923 466.685 Net assets 570,164 493,211 Funds of the charity.. Unrestricted income fund¥ Unrestricted funds 570,164 493.211 Total funds 18 493.211 The financial statements on pages 21 10 42 were approved by the trustees, and authorised lor issue on 4m December 2024 and signed on their behalf by.. G R Paine Trustee The note5 on pages 25 to 42 forni an integral part of these financial statements. Page 23

Spark Somerset Cash Flow Statement for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 2024 2023 Note Cash flow5 from operaling activitl8S Net cash incom& 76.953 102.192 Adlu$tments to cash IIow5 from non<ash iterns Depieciation Arnortisalion Inlefest receivabte and simi18r income 3,744 4,558 5.865 4.308 79.390 106,500 Working capital adjustments Increase In debitsrs IDecreastrllincre35e ITr creditors (Decreasellincrease In defèrrecl Income 14 18 1S 1116.0151 118,3931 22.268 1162.7101 44,787 345.750 Net cash flows from operating activities Cash flow5 from invÈsttng activities Interest receivable and 51milar income Purchase of Intangible fixed assets Disposal of Intangible frxed asgels Purchase of tangible fixed assets 77,288 334 327 5.865 16.7851 1.573 2,805 12 121,4371 29S6 Net cash flows from investing activities 2,152 24.403 Nel Idecreasellincrease in cash and cash equwalents 179.4381 1,017,322 309,924 Cash and cash equivalents at 1 April 707.398 Cash and cash equiv81enls at 31 March 937,884 1,017.322 All of the cash flows are derived from continuing operation5 during the above ￿ periods. The notes On P3ges 25 10 42 form an integral part of these financial slatemenl5. Page 24

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 I Charity status The chanty is a Charitable Incorporaied Organisation registered in Eng￿lld and Wale5. The 2ddress of Its regisleied office Is-. Unil$ 3 and 4, The Courtyard Bowdens Farm H8mbiidgÈ Langport Somersel TA10 OBP 2 Accounting polici¢s Statement of complianc8 The financial statement5 have been prepa￿d in a¢¢or(lance wlh Accounting and Reporting by Charities-. Slèlernenl of Recommended Practrce applicable 10 charities preparing their accounts in accordanc& with the Financial Reporling Standard applicable In the UK Republic 04 Irelano IFRS 1021 leffective 1 January 20191- (Chanties SORP IFRS 10211, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 and the Chanlies Act 2011. Basss of preparation Spaik SLTrITieibvI ITIEElb IIIE dEfiniliDn of a publr benefit entity under FRS 102. The aEcoun15 lfinanclal statementsl have been prepared under the historical cost convention with Items recognised al cost or transactson value unless otherwise stated In the relevant nolelsl to these accounts. Going concern The trustee5 consider that there are no material uncertainties aboLrt the ch3rty'5 ability lo continue as going concern. Incotne and endovm?nt5 Voluntary Income Including donations, gifts, legacies and grants that provide core funding or are of gener81 nature Is recognised when the charity has Entitletnent to the Income, It 15 probable that the Incorne will be received and the amount can be measured with sufficient reliability. Donations 8ndlegacies Donations and legacies are recognised on a receNable basis when receipt is probable and the amount can be re15ably measured. GrgBts ￿Ge1vable Granis 2rÈ rècognised when the chanty ha$ an enbdement to Y)e funds and any conditions linked to the grants have been met. Vvhere performance conditions are attached to the grani and a￿ yet 10 be mei, the Income Is ￿tognIsed as a liability and Included on the balance sheet as deferred Income to be released. Page 25

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl Deferred income DÈferred Incorne represents amounts receiv&rl for future periods and is rÈleas&d to incoming resvurce5 in the period for which. It has been rec2wed. Such income is only defeiied when". The donor speofies that th& grant or donation must only be used in future accounting periods, or The donor hès Imposed conditions which must be mel before the charity has unconditional eftlitlÈmèni. InvÈstment in¢ome Dividends are recognised once the dividend has been declar￿ and notrficalion has been re￿Wed Df the dividend due. Expenditure All expÈnditure Is ￿COgnIsed once ther& is a legal or constFUGlive obligation lo Ihal expenditure. It is probable setllernenl Is required and the amount can be measured reliably. All cost5 are allocated to th& applicable expenditure heading that aggregate similar costs lo that category. Where costs cannot be direcdy 3ttribuled lo p3rticu12r hÈadings they have been allocated on 2 basis ctynsislenl wth the use c>f resources. Kmth central staff ¢osts allocated on the basis of time spent. and depreciation ch2rges allocated on the portion of the asset's use. Other support costs are allocaled based on the spr&ad of staff ¢ostS. Raising lunds These are costs incurred In attracting voluntary income. Charitable activities Charitable e￿PÈnditUre cornpnses those costs Inturred by the charity In thè delivery of Ils actiwties 2nd servi¢es fDr its beneficiarie5. 11 includp5 both costs that can be 811o¢ated directly 10 such actiwli&s and those costs of an Indirect nature necessary to 5UPPOrt them. Grant expenditurÈ Grants p3yable are charged in the year when the offer is made except in those cases where the offer is ¢ondilional, such grants being recognised as expenditure when the conditions attaching are fulfilled. Grantprovisions Provisions for grants are made when the intention lo make a grant has been communicated to the recipient but there is uncertainty about either the timing of the grant or the amount of giant ￿yable. Governance costs These include the costg attributable to the charity's cornpliance wth conslilutional and statutory requirements. Inducling audit, strategic rnanagemeni and trustees meelings and reimbursed expenses. Page 26

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontlnuedl Taxation The charity is considered lo pass the lest5 Sel out in Paragraph 1 SchÈdule 6 of the Finance Act 2010 and therefore It meet5 the definition of a charitable company fDr UK corporation tax purposes. Accordingly, the charity Is potentially exempt from laxalion in respect of income or capital gains received within categones covered by Chapter 3 Part 11 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010 or Section 256 Df the Taxation Df Chargeable Gains Act 1992, to the extent that such income or gain5 are applied exdusivety to charitable purposes. Intsngible as8ets Intangible assets are staled in the Balance Sheet al ¢osl less accumulated amoth5alion and impairment. They a￿ amortised on a strai9ht line basis Dver their ests-mated useful lives. TangiblÈ fixed assets Individual fixed assets costing £500.00 or more are Initialty recorded at C05t. Amortlsation Amort15Hlion Is provided on intangible assets so as to write off the cost, lèss any estimated residual value, over their useful life as follows.. Asset Class Computer software Amtsrtisation method and rate 20°h atraighl line Depreciation Depreciation is provided on tangible fixed assets 50 a5 to WTile off the cost or valuation, less any estimated ￿sIdUal value. over their expected useful economic lrfe as folksws.. Asset ¢las$ Computer equipment5 Depreciation method and rale Trade debtors Trade debtors a￿ amounts due from cuslorners for merchandise sold or services perfomeLI in the ord1n2ry course of business. Trade debtors are recognised initially at Ihe transacts-on price. They are subsequendy measured at amortised cost using the effective Interest method, less provision fof Impairment. A provision for the Impairment of trade debtors is established when there is abjeclive evidence that the Charity will not be able to ¢ollÈ¢l all amounts due according to Ihe original terms of the receivables. Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalent5 comprise cash on hand and call deposits, and other short-terrn highty liquid Investments that are readiw convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject lo an insignificant risk of change in value. Page 27

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl Trade creditors Trade creditors are obligations to pay for gooLls or services that have been acquired In the ordinary course of bu51ness from suppliers. Accounts payable are cla55ified as current Iiabililies If the does not have an uncondition31 right. at the end of the ieporting period, to defer settlement of the creditor for al least twelve months after the reporting date. If there is an uncon(Jitional right lo defer settlement for al least Iwelve months after the reporting dale, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised Initially at the Ir8nsaction price ancl subsequenty Measured at arnortised cost using the effective interest method. BOrrO￿ng$ InlerÈsi-bearing borrowngs are initl8lly recordÈd at fair value. net of transaction costs. Interesl.bèaFing borrowings are subsequently carried at amorti$Èd cost. with the difference between the proceeds. nÈt of transaction costs, and the amount due on redemption being recognised a5 charge lo the Statement of Financial Activities over the period of the relevant borrovnng. Inlere8t expense 1$ recognised on the basis of Ihe effective Interest method and 1$ Included In Inteiesl payable and sirnilar charges. Borrowing5 are classified as current liabilities unless the chanty ha5 an unconditional right tD defer settiewent of the liability for al least twelve months after the reporting date. Fund structure Unrestricted Income ftjnds are gÈneral fundg that are available for use at the trustees discrètion in furtherance of the objectives of the charity. Reslricled Income funds arÈ Ihtsse donated for use in a particular ar?a or for specific purposes, the V5e of which is restricted to Ihal area or purpose. Pension5 and other po$t retirement tsblrgations Th& Charity operates a defined contribution pension scherne Nthich is a pensiDn plan under which fixed contributions are paid IntD a pÈnsion fund and the charity has no legal 01 constructive obligation to pay further contributions even If the fund doeg not hold sufficient assets lo pay all employees th& enefils relating to employee service in the current and prior periods. Contributions to define¢ ¢oniribulion plans are rÈcognised In the Statement of Financial Adimlies when they are due. 11 Contribution payments exceed the tonlribution due for setvice. the excess is cDgni5ed as a prepayment. Page 28

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Endèd 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl 3 Intomè from donations and legacie5 un￿stricted funds General Totsl funds Oonations and legacies.. Donations Grants, Including capital grants., Grants and gifts 9,270 9,270 185,871 165 871 Totsl for 2024 175,141 175.141 Totsl frjr 2023 180.800 180,800 4 Income from charltabte activlties Unrèstricted fund5 General Restrict&d funds Total 2024 Provision of Advicc, Training & Support 163.533 1.001,143 1.164.676 Unrestricted funds Gènoral Restricte fund5 Totsl 2023 Provision of Advice. Training & Support 272,299 573,817 846.11 5 Investment incom8 Unrestricted lunds General Total lunds Interest ￿ceIVable and similar income,. Interest receiwabie on bank deposits 5,865 5.865 Yotsl for 2024 5.865 5.885 Pa9e 29

Spark Somprset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (continued) 6 Analysi5 of expendlture C05t of raising fund5 Proviston of advice, training & support Support costs Governance ¢osl$ 2024 Total 2023 Total Wages and sa18ri&s Other slam ¢os15 Disclosure and barring service costs Project equipment and other costs Premises and Other cost5 Cornputer and software costs Marketing. PR and events costs Legal, insurance and professional Consuttancy costs Giant payments Other ¢DSt5 18,302 455,287 43,663 6,918 593 12,883 8,989 9.703 317.074 19,565 12.262 802,925 63,228 6,918 593 35,668 21.02 11.233 8.977 48.812 216,935 52.420 650,613 43.120 48,556 11,5001 29.584 12,771 16,344 11.299 22,754 59.073 32.110 22,785 12,031 1.530 3.441 34,116 5.536 14.696 216.935 24.191 28.229 18,3D2 793.858 438.771 17,798 438.771 1438.7711 17.798 1,288,729 924.724 Support EQSts Governance costs Tot81 expenditurp 2024 117.7981 18.302 1.250,427 1,268,729 924,724 Totsl expenditure 2023 15.903 908,821 924.724 Page 30

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 {continued) 7 Grant-making Analysis of grants 2024 2023 Analysis Individual Donatrons Food Resilience Project ICB Young People Food and HDU5ing Rural Cornmunities Rese3r¢h Engagement Netsmork Digital Inclu8ion Project Arts Council- Thriving Communities 8.552 100.ODO 83.000 10.383 6,000 9,000 50,544 8,529 216,935 59,073 8 Net Incomingloutgoing resources Net incoming resource5 for the year indude-. 2024 2023 Audit fees Depreciation of fixed assets Amortisation of intagible assets 5.775 3,744 4,558 5,775 4.308 9 Tru5tpes remuneration and expenses No trustees. nor any persons connected with them, have received any remuneration frorn the charity during the year. No IrusteÈs have received any reiTnbur5ed expenses or any other benefit5 from thÈ charity during the year. Page 31

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl fo Staff costs The aggregate payroll costs were as follows. 2024 2023 Staff costs during the year were.. Wages and salarie5 Social securty costs Pension costs 729.003 58,496 15,426 591 40 46.685 12 544 802,925 650.613 The TnQnthty avEf3ge nuTnber of persons lincluding senior management I leadership team) employed by the charity d￿nrn9 the year expre$setl 3$ full time equivalents was a5 follows. 2024 2023 Employees 30 27 No employee received emoluments of more than £60.000 during Ihe year The total employee benefits of the key management personnel of the charity were £165,548 12023 28.5931. 11 Taxation The chanty Is 3 registered charity and is therefore e¥empl from t3xalion. Page 32

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl 12 Intangible fixed assets Cornputer Software Total Cost At 1 April 2023 Additions Disposals 21.437 6.785 21,437 6,785 11,5731 At 31 March 2024 26,649 26,649 Amort15ation Al 1 April 2023 Char9e for the year 4,558 4,558 Al 31 Mar¢1) 2024 4,558 4,558 Net book value At 31 March 2024 22,091 22.091 At 31 March 2023 21.437 21,437 Page 33

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statemènts for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 leontinuedl 13 Tangible fixed assets CtsmputeT equiprnent Total Cost At 1 Apnl 2023 Additions 14.876 2.805 14.876 2,805 At 31 March 2024 17.681 17,681 DÈprÈciation At 1 April 2023 Charge for the year 9,787 3.744 9,787 3,744 At 31 March 2024 13,531 13,531 N8t book value At 31 March 2024 4,150 4,150 At 31 March 2023 5.089 5,089 14 Debtors 2024 2023 Trade debtors Prepayments Accrued Income Other debtors 380.348 8.968 5,865 1.000 271.042 7.839 1285 396,181 280 166 Page 34

Spark Somerset Note5 to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 leontinuedl 15 Ca$h and cash equivalents 2024 2023 Cash at bank Short-lern deposits 767,884 170,000 1,017,322 937.884 1.017 3 16 Creditors.. amounts falling due wfjthln one ytar 2024 2023 Trade creditors Other tsxalion and 50oal security Other creditors Pension scheme creditor Accruals Deferred income 14.883 29.687 18 3.083 12.197 730.274 21 028 13,539 21,323 22,373 752.542 790,142 830,803 2024 2023 Deferred Income ai 1 April 2023 Resources deferred in the period Amounts ￿leaSe￿ from previous periods 752.542 730,274 752,542 406,792 720,553 374,803 Deferred income al year end 730,274 752.54 17 Penslon anil other schemes Dofined contribution p9nsion 5chemo The charity operates a defined contribution pens10n scheme. The pension cost charge for tt)e year represents contribLrtion5 payable by the charity lo the scheme and amounted to £15,426 12023 £12,544). Contributions totslling £3.08312023.. £Nill were payable lo the 5cherne at the end ol the year and are induded in creditors. Page 35

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl 18 Funds Balance at 1 April 2023 Intoming resouices Resources expende Balance at 31 March 2024 Unrestricted funds General Unrestricted funds 493,211 344.539 1267,5861 570, 164 R¢$tricted fund5 Somersel County Council I CCS- Ca￿r$. Support NHS Somersel CCG- Oigital Inclusion Proi&ct Somerset Council- Connect Somer5et Area Champion Contact Officer$ Nalional Lottery Youth Work Alli8nce Rural Practice Network- Social Prescribin9 Link Worker NHS Sofnerset ICB- Children and Young People Mental Health Som&rsel County Council- Mental Heahh Network Rethink Mental Health Illness- OMH County Wide Specia115m NHS SomErsel IC8- Hypertension Blood Pressufe Connector NHS Somerset CCG- Dernenlia Alliance Lockynod Charitable Foundation- Heatth and Wellbeing in Somerset NHS Somersel CCG- ICS Engagement Somerset County Council. Refle¢l, RprovEr, Renew Soulh Somer5et D15tiict Council- Rural Recovery Proiecls Sports England rhe Together Fund Somefsel County Council- Wami spa￿$. Food Re5ilien 46.156 1 DS.967 17,28D 78,077 4,998 146,1561 IID5.4871 117.2801 178.0771 14.9981 28,836 17.573 2.642 25.520 47.588 1.817 47,694 33,883 2,076 29,633 128.8381 117.5731 12.6421 125,5201 147,5881 147,6941 133.8831 12,0761 129.6331 Page 36

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 (continued) Balanc? at 1 Apfil 2023 Incoming re$oufces R850urce5 exp8nded Balancè at 31 March 2024 Rethink Mental Heatth Illnes$- QMH Underserved Communities Public Sector Engagement NHS Somerset ICB- Research Enga9emenl Network IRENI Somerset Community FDundalion - The Together Fund SorDpf5et County Council- Together for Mental Health Training & Covid Recovery SedgemDor District Council- Vvellbeing Directory NHS Some15et IC8. Young People. Food & Hou51Dg Somersel County Council- Children & Young People Cornmunity Engagement Total restri¢ted funds ie9,024 117,929 26,913 1,63D 3,000 1.436 183,000 7.370 1169,0241 1117,9291 126.9131 11.6301 13.0001 11.4361 1183.0001 7.370 1.001,143 1,001.143 Total funds 493.211 1,345.682 1,268.729 570,164 Page 37

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl Balan¢9 at 1 April 2022 Incomlng resources R?50urc85 expended Balance at 31 Maich 2023 Unr8Stricted funds Goneral Unrestricted funds 391,019 453,099 1350.9071 493.211 Restricted NHS Somerset CCG- Digital Inclu51Dn Project Milbrook Surgery- Social Prescribing Link Worker Sornersel Community Foundation Youth Partnership Project CRF Engag? Somerset RF SDcial EnterO5es CRF Velocity SomEf5et County Council- Mental Heatth Hub NHS sornersel CCG- Dementia Alliance Rethink Mental Heahh Illne55 Somersel NHS Foundation Trust- Detnenlia Roadshows Arts Council- Thriving CorDmunitie5 NHS Somerset CCG IYeD¥III - Engagemenl and Communications Delivery Plan Lockwoad Chantsble Foundation- Health and Weubeing in Somerset NHS Somersel CCG- ICS Engagement Sotnerset NHS Foundation Trust- Vaccination Volunteers NHS Soffler5el CCG- ICS PHM Progratnme Somersel Couniy Council- Reflect, Reeover, Renew Somersei County Council- Dementia Training South Somerset District Council- Rufal Re¢Dvery PIDject5 129,670 29,988 15,000 8,314 15,933 47,767 15,227 27,100 148.￿5 4,451 22.237 1.500 9.384 lQ.000 5.553 25.000 27 3.156 10.117 1129.6701 129.9881 115.0001 16.3141 115.9331 147.7e71 115.2271 127.1001 1148,0251 14,4511 122,2371 11.5001 19,3841 iio,0001 15,5531 125,0001 1271 13,1561 Page 38

Spark Somersot Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl Balance at 1 April 2022 Incoming resoLifc85 R850urces expended Balance at 31 March 2023 Sports England The Together Fun4 Somersel CDunty Council- VCFSE Partnership Support Somersel Co￿nty Council- VCSE Partnership Engagement Model Sedgemoof District Council So¢ial Prescribing Sotner5el County Council- Warm Sp3ces- Food Resilience Somersel County Council- Youth Vvork Alliance Somer5el County Coun¢il- Training Totsl rostrlctsd funds 1.081 s.￿2 2.238 5.B54 24.633 1.000 7.000 15.5621 12.2381 15.8541 124.6331 11.OOJI 7.OOD 573,817 573,817 Toiai fun(J$ 391.019 1.026.916 924,724 493.211 Page 39

Spark Somerset Notes to the Finan¢ial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl The specific purp05e5 for which the funds are to be applied are as follows:_ Somerset County Counol I CCS delivering the peer group 5UPkK)rt elernenl of the Somerset Caiers, Service. NHS Sornerset IC8 - Digrtal Inclusion Project . ImprDving access lo physical, menial and social care by reducing 41gltal povety across Somerset Somersei Council Conneci Somerset Area Champion Contact OfficeTS- lo provide the provision to support Connect Somersel In the loeality. National Lottery- Youth Vlork Alliance- To support and develop the Somerset Youth work Alliance. Rural pract￿ce Ne￿rk Social Prescribing Link Worker- h051ing of the SPLW NHS Somer5et ICB . Children and Young People MenlJl HeaMh- The developrnent of a SoTner5el Children and Young PÈDple'8 Mental Health Nerwork Ihai can be used 10 establish a Children and Young People's Alliance rDbust and ablÈ ttr respond lo opportunities and challènges wlhin the area both financially and more generally I￿0p1ng phase during this period) Somersel County Council - Mental Health Network - coordination of peer support nehvork for VCSE organisations working in mental health. Rethink M&nlal Illness - panner in Open ilent31 Health VCSE Alliance - chair of partnership board. provision of ¢OUfttyk4qde volunteering InfrastruGluie support and admin Support for grant - pwr8mme. NHS Somerset IC8- Hypertension - Blood Pressure Community Connector6 Coordinator post. NHS Somerset CCG- Dementia Alliance- lead organisation for the delivery of roadshows. Lockwood Charitablè Foundation Health 3nd Wellbeing in Somerset - host or9anisabon for Jenny Hartnoll. supporting h&atth and wellbeing activity in Somerset end linking in UK_wide work via the National Association for Social Prescribing INASPI NHS Somer5et CCG - ICS Engagement - Supportln9 the voluntary sector to engage with the emerging InlegralÈd Care System as part of the NHS England Im￿ddIng VCSE In the IC8" Somerset County Council - Reflect. Recover, Renew - To support the devek)pment of the 5 key prior1ties identifietl by the Reflect, Recover. Renew survey report. South Somersel Dislrid Council - Rural Recovery Proj&cts A proitrcl to a5S151 rural communities in South somersel In their recovery trom Covid and lo build future resilience to be able lo meet future challenges such as tre current Cost of Lwing crisis. Sports England The Together Fund - to help keep people affected by the pandemic in Somerset, physically active. Sornerset County Counc11- Warm Spaees Food Resilience - To develop and Coryordinaie a warm spaces programme dunng btrinter and lo work wth stakeholders through task and finish groups to improvè foo¢ resilience. Public Sector Engagetnenl Model. Somer$et County Council- Supporting the development of a VCSE partnership engagement model. Page 40

Spark Somer5et Notes to the Financial Staternents for the Year Ended 31 Mareh 2024 Icontinued} NHS Somer5el ICB - Research Engagement Nelwork IRENI . Funding lo Spark Somer5et for their Support and work as a lead VCFSE partner in the Somerset Research Engagement Network Project. Somerset County Council Training for Mental Heatth Training & CDvid Recovery- Delivery of an agreed mental heatlh and wellbein9 trainin9 programme lo develop knO￿ledge, skills and attitudÈ Df staft. VSCE and cotnmunity groups Iinkpd 10 covid recovery. Sedgemoor Dislri¢t Council - Welbeing Dirp¢tory web platform featuring support sevi¢es In the Sedgemoor area. NHS Somerset ICB - Children and Food. Young People and Housing - funding aUocate4 to other VCFSE organisation lo lead delivery Sgmerset County Council - ChI￿ren & Young People Community Engagement - To support young people's personal and social development and enable them to have a voice, influenc2 and place in their cotnrnunilies. Arts Council Thr5ving Cornmunititrs irnpro¥e increase the range and reath ol arts and naiure-based social prescnbing activities in Somerset. CRF Engage Sornerset - 6 month project to pronx)le swial indusion and combat poverty. an undertying key aim lo support people towards and into employmenL CRF Social Enterprises A programme of support and netrworking for social enterprise5 Iboth established and aspiring) lo support In Iheir devek>pmenl and knng term sustainèbility. CRF Velocity - A digital Inclusion project accessible lo all voluntary. community and social enterprise tsrganisalions In Somerset, offering fully funded Irainirig, support and Inveslrnenl. Milbrook Surgery- Social Prescribing Link Worker. hosting of the SPLW Somerset NHS FoundatK)n Trust - Vaccination Volunteers Short terrn to support vaccination prograrnme and longer terrD'bank' of volunteers l¢amed ovef trom Cowdl NHS Somerset ICB - Engagement and communicab.ons Delivery Plan - To 5UPPOrt engagement and consultation for the ICB Iwa5 CCGI NHS SDmerset CCG - ICS PHM Programme - Supporting the VCSE to engage In the Populatson Health Management Prryiam In the IC8. Somerset County Council - VCFSE Partnerghip Support - Match Funding for a partnership post to Support &ngagemenl of the VCSE in the local government reorganisation. Somer$et County Council- Youth Work Alliance - To support and develop the Somerset Youth Work Allian￿. Page 41

Spark Somerset Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Icontinuedl 19 Analy51$ of net assets betwÈÈn lunds UnreslrittÈd fund5 General Total funds 8131 March 2024 Restritted funds Intangible fixÈd assets Tangible fixed assets Current assets 22.091 4.150 642.028 98.105 ,091 4,150 1.334.065 790.142 692.037 692.037 Total net assets 570.164 5TQ.164 Unrestricted funds GÈnÈral Total funds at 31 March 2023 Restrictsd fund5 Intangible fixed assets Tangible fixed assets Current assets 21,437 5,OB9 723611 256.986 21 437 5.089 1.297 488 830 803 573.B17 573,817 Total nel assets 493,211 493 211 20 Analysis of net funds At 1 April 2023 Finar¢cing cash flows At 31 March 2024 Cash at bank and In hand 1.017.322 79,438 937 884 Nel debt 1.017,322 179,438 937 884 At 1 April 2022 Flnancing cash flows At 31 March 2023 Cash al bank and In hand 707,398 309.924 1,017,322 Net debt 707.398 309.924 1,017.322 Page 42