**SUPPORTING NEW MUMS WHO HAVE FLED FROM TRAFFICKERS OR VIOLENCE, AND HAVE SOUGHT INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION IN THE UK FOR THEMSELVES AND THEIR BABIES** **ANNUAL REPORT** Trustees’ Annual Report and Summary Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 happybabycommunity.org.uk Registered Charity – 1181633 **----- Start of picture text -----**
Illustration ‘ Sacha Sleeping’ printed with kind permission of Anita Klein
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
The Queen’s Award
for Voluntary Service
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **WORDS FROM ONE OF OUR COMMUNITY MEMBERS’…** “ When I referred to “Happy Baby Community” for the first time, I was in a hopeless situation because I had asked for help in many associations, I had sent endless emails and no one answered me, so I thought that the same thing would happen to me here, but quite the opposite happened. I had hope in everything they did and I started to be convinced that they really are the people I needed so much in a not easy situation in which I was. I was 8 months pregnant, I had absolutely nothing about the baby, I had no information about the birth. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the Albanian girls I met there who did their best to get the right support in translation or in other circumstances. I will not leave without mentioning the doula Sara, she is a blessing in my life and I thank God but also the Happy baby community who sent her to the hospital. At the first meeting in Dalston garden I felt very good because it was a very warm environment even though it was the first time I participated in their group. I couldn’t wait for Monday when I would join the children and mothers of the Happy Baby community staff. 3 days before my due date, I was transferred to another city 45 minutes away from London and I experienced it very badly because I thought I would be alone, but happy baby community sent Sara, who stayed with me from the first moment of labour until my little girl was born. She was my biggest support in the most beautiful and difficult moments of my life. I never thought that someone would do what Sara did for me. She was tortured, without sleep, without food, she gave me a massage, she motivated me all the time “you’re doing very good, you’re a wonderful mum etc”. 26 hours with me and 3 weeks after I gave birth, she called me twice a week about the problems I might encounter or even about the pleasure I was experiencing. Every week I met wonderful people, one of them is Jill, who helped me exceptionally much with pregnancy information from breastfeeding, birth or even post-partum. Every week I was in physical contact and on the phone with different members of the group, which eased every difficulty and gave me the assurance that everything would go very well. In this association, I also met wonderful mothers who brought me clothes for my daughter, whom I am raising with the gifts they give, I also met “Pram Depot” who brought me the first box for my daughter with everything she needed. Now I say with full conviction that I have a sister and my daughter has an aunt to whom we are infinitely grateful and we love her very much. The Happy Baby Community network is so big that it is dear to me because even today, when my daughter is 2 months old, they don’t stop helping. They gave me the opportunity to attend online courses but also online meetings with different doctors for different diseases and problems. Another great help for me was Debbie, in welfare who contacted me every day about any problem I had. Thank you very much Happy Baby Community for making the birth of my daughter so easy and beautiful. You are my family today and always will be. I will speak to my daughter with more love for the environment and the people who helped her come into life and be a happy baby. I can’t wait to meet you again. With love ” |**WHAT WE DO**|**ONE-TO-ONE**
**SUPPORT**|**ONE-TO-ONE**
**SUPPORT**|**COMMUNITY CENTRED**
**SUPPORT**|**COMMUNITY CENTRED**
**SUPPORT**|**COMMUNITY CENTRED**
**SUPPORT**|**COMMUNITY CENTRED**
**SUPPORT**|**COMMUNITY CENTRED**
**SUPPORT**|**USER-LED**
**MODEL**|**USER-LED**
**MODEL**| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| ||**PERINATAL PROGRAM**||**COMMUNITY HUBS**|||||**USER**|**LED**| |||||||||**MANAGEMENT TEAM**|| ||**WELFARE CASEWORK**||**ONLINE**||||||| ||||**COMMUNITY HUBS**|||||**VOLUNTEERING**|| ||**HOSPITAL BAGS**||||||||| ||||**FOOD**||||**&**|**EMPLOYMENT**|| ||**THERAPEUTIC**||**COMMUNITY LUNCH**|||||**PATHWAY**|| ||**LISTENING**|**SERVICE 1:1**|**TRAVEL**|||**COSTS**||**LEADERSHIP**|| ||**REFERRAL PHONE CALLS**
**PRACTICAL SUPPORT:**||**ENGLISH**|||**LESSONS**||**PROGRAM**
**COMMUNITY**|| ||**ALWAYS OPEN FOR**
**PHONES, DATA**||**TRAUMA INFORMED**
**YOGA**|||||**OUTREACH**
**AMBASSADORS**|| ||**REFERRALS,**|**NO WAIT LIST**|**MEDICAL & WELLBEING PROGRAM**||||||| ||**7/7 SUPPORT:**
**PHONE/EMAIL/**||**CHILDREN’S**||||**PROGRAM**||| ||**WHATSAPP**||**INTERPRETING**||||||| ||**BABY & CHILDREN’S**||**EDUCATION**|||**PROGRAM**|||| ||**CLOTHES, TOYS & BOOKS**||||||||| ||**WEEKLY OWN**||||||||| ||**LANGUAGE TEXT**||||||||| ||||||||||| ||||||||||| |**IMPACT**|**NEW MUMS**
**THRIVE**||**BABIES**
**THRIVE**|||||**CHILDREN**
**THRIVE**|| ## **THE CHALLENGES** **PHYSICAL HEALTH POOR FOOD LONELINESS DEPRESSION POOR SLEEP ANXIETY LIFE OF UNCERTAINTY OVERCROWDED HOUSING LIFE WITH A VERY LOW INCOME LANGUAGE & CULTURE LACK OF CONNECTIONS & A TRUSTED COMMUNITY SOCIAL ISOLATION** 2 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 3 ## **THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** ## A dark past to a bright future **----- Start of picture text -----**
“I was “Every week I got
frightened.” a message telling me
abut the groups and
encouraging me to go to
the nearest one.”
“There were
“The Happy Baby
other mums like me
Community called
volunteering and helping
me the next day after I
out with the lunch, it felt
had contacted them, with “I had
like a family.”
a person who spoke my nothing for
language. She listened the baby.”
to me.”
“When I went to the
group, I was met by a
“I got a call from a lady coordinator who was really
who said she would kind and introduced me to
stay with me when I other mums who spoke
had my baby.” my language.”
“Happy Baby
“I had been through so much
before getting to the UK, there sent me a big bag,
were times when it was hard to with everything
cope. A therapist from Happy I needed for my
Baby called me and we had new baby.”
calls to help me through the
difficult times.”
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
“I was
alone.” “I had no idea about
stuff like how to get a birth
certificate or ask the doctor
for help. I joined into the
“I got a big box of lovely things for sessions at the group where
my little girl, it has books and toys and we talked about how to do
clothes. Someone had made special these things.”
things like a teddy and a cardigan.
That was lovely.”
“I didn’t
“The group I went to understand.”
was really fun for me and
“Everyone always
my baby, I got to know other
spent time when
mums. Everyone hugs you
I asked for help and
when you arrive – its lovely.”
arranged for someone
to help in my
language.”
“I was
given a phone
and data so that
“A doula started to support me
I could join the
with my pregnancy – I got to
online English
know her the weeks before I
classes. That was
had my baby. She arrived at the
the only way I
hospital with me and stayed the
could study with
whole time. She made me feel
my baby. It was a
safe and cared for.”
small group
and I learnt “When I told one
quickly.” of the volunteers
that I had
qualifications and
wanted to start
working, they
“The group coordinator suggested
helped me join
that I join as a volunteer and help
“I just wanted the employment
with some of the tasks at the
to work and pathway, and
group. I have a qualification in
study and join
support
teaching and so it was great to
a mentoring
help other mums with to take part my baby.”
program.”
in the children’s program.”
**----- End of picture text -----**
4 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 5 ## **LED BY OUR COMMUNITY THE MANAGEMENT OF THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** At Happy Baby Community, our strategic priority is clear: we are majority led and managed by women with lived experience of migration as refugees in the UK. To achieve this, we’ve implemented initiatives that empower our community members and embed user leadership and voice: **5 THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY’S VOLUNTEER AND EMPLOYMENT PATHWAY PROGRAM** supports community leaders in the asylum system, preparing them to be work-ready when the legal opportunity arises. ## **1 OUR BESPOKE LEADERSHIP PROGRAM** supported by the Lloyds Foundation, has empowered 13 women to become inspiring leaders. They also participated in a mentoring program with the Routes Collective, further developing their capabilities. - **5 THE MAJORITY OF OUR MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE (85%) AND STAFF TEAM (90%) HAVE LIVED EXPERIENCE** , reinforcing our user-led approach. ## **2 OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEETINGS** - always involve the management committee, ensuring direct user input into decision-making. - **7 WE PRIORITISE STAFF WITH YOUNG CHILDREN** - **3 TRUSTEES MENTOR SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBERS** nurturing their growth and expertise. - offering support to ensure their well-being. - **8 EMBRACING JOB-SHARES** ## **4 OUR CHARITY DEVELOPMENT TEAM** our Co-Development Directors, Sue Balmer and Lucy Bracken, lead the charge for a more inclusive work environment. focuses on equipping staff to assume strategic roles while mentoring new program participants to take on substantive positions. At the Happy Baby Community, we walk the talk of user-led leadership. By empowering women with lived experience, we create a stronger, more compassionate community dedicated to nurturing and supporting one another. Together, we build a brighter future for all. ## **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY ORGANISATION CHART** **----- Start of picture text -----**
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FINANCE & CHARITY DEVELOPMENT TEAM
BOARD
FUNDRAISING Impact and Evaluation – HR- Fundraising
Banking – Charity Governance – New Project MENTORS
COMMITTEE
Management – Staff Welfare
MANAGEMENT TEAM
JILL &
OLA HIWOT & LUCY SUE VALENZA LORETTA MARINE
JOLANDA
VOLUNTEERING LEADERSHIP PROGRAM PERINATAL
PROGRAM
OUTREACH AMBASSADORS EDUCATION & WELFARE
Online & F2F: Health Education / Legal welfare / Welfare / Information PERINATAL
FINANCE – PROJECTS
BOOK-KEEPING COMMUNITY GROUPS Thornton Heath / Dalston / ENGLISH EMPLOYMENT & PARTNERS
Stratford / Acton & Redhill / Crawley (07/23) PROGRAM PATHWAY
& MENTORING
BOARD PERINATAL
CHILDRENS’ PROGRAM
MEETINGS VIRTUAL REFERRALS
COMMUNITY REFERRALS TEAM
FOOD FOR SAFEGUARDING
PERINATAL
COMMUNITY
INTERPRETING SAFEGUARDING
Partnerships THERAPEUTIC
and facilities LISTENING
for the HARDSHIP PRACTICAL
SERVICE
Community REFERRALS SUPPORT
groups Children in Need PARTNERSHIPS
FOR
CRM TRAINING PRACTICAL
& SUPPORT SUPPORT
EXTERNAL & PEER SUPPORT
INTERNAL & TRAINING
“My children tell me: COMMS
‘Mum let’s go to bed soon,
tomorrow is HBC, and I don’t
want to miss it’. That’s why I am
so grateful; you can only find fun “For me, Happy Baby Community has
been very supportive to me (...) especially
and happiness in the Happy
when I was a bit depressed, well I was
Baby Community. ”
really depressed when my pregnancy and
Happy Baby Community have done a lot, I
have received stuff, I had people calling me
to ask me how my mood is, and you know...
it has been a very good thing for me.”
**----- End of picture text -----**
6 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 7 ## **THANK YOU FOR BEING A HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY ANGEL** Happy Baby Community thrives with the support of an incredible network: ## **182 DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS** Their collective impact is astounding, as they contribute an estimated 57,000 hours of volunteering each year. These wonderful individuals selflessly give their time, skills, and energy to empower the charity and support the women within Happy Baby Community. **100+ HELPERS 45 DOULAS** Their commitment is the driving force behind our impact, making a profound difference in the lives of our community members. We are immensely grateful for their unwavering support and the extraordinary impact they make every single day. ## **OUR INCREDIBLE SUPPORT NETWORK…** - Our doulas **–** Donors of clothes - & toiletries - Our English teaches - Welfare support - Cooks & washer uppers - Baby huggers - Childrens’ Activity volunteers - Knitters and sewers **... AND A REMARKABLE COMMUNITY OF KIND & GENEROUS SUPPORTERS.** - Therapists **–** Listeners - Infant feeding support - Trustees - **–** - Perinatal peer support Interpreters - Outreach Ambassadors - Outreach Ambassadors **–** Group Coordinators - **–** Our Practical **–** Childbirth preparation support team **----- Start of picture text -----**
Image : ‘Baby in the stars’ © Anita Klein
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **SAFEGUARDING** The Happy Baby Community is committed to ensuring the well-being and safety of all individuals we support, as many are particularly vulnerable. They include babies, children, young people, and adults at risk. Our charity recognises the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment that protects individuals from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. We prioritise safeguarding at the Happy Baby Community, implementing robust policies, procedures, and training. Our team is wellinformed and equipped to recognize, report, and respond to safeguarding concerns, complying with all relevant laws and regulations. Through bi-weekly online training sessions, we ensure our staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and prepared to identify signs of abuse, follow reporting procedures, and maintain confidentiality. We maintain an open and accountable culture, encouraging the reporting of any safeguarding concerns. Prompt and confidential action is taken, including providing immediate support and collaborating with external agencies if needed. Comprehensive records are kept, enabling us to monitor trends, learn from experiences, and continually improve our safeguarding practices. With Deborah Wright, a Senior Social Worker, and Sarah Hughes, our Trustee Safeguarding Lead, we regularly review and update our policies and procedures. External resources and feedback help us stay informed about best practices and emerging issues. “Being a member of the Happy Baby Community is akin to belonging to a large and caring family. It imbues me with a sense of warmth and friendship that transforms work from a mere obligation into an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavour.” At the Happy Baby Community, safeguarding is paramount. We foster a safe and respectful environment, ensuring the well-being and protection of all those involved in our organisation. 8 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 9 ## **OUR IMPACT** At the Happy Baby Community, we understand the struggles faced by mothers who are asylum seekers and survivors of violence. These new mums often find it challenging to access and trust statutory services, lacking the confidence to seek help. Dear Happy Baby Community, I am writing this letter filled with appreciation and gratitude for everything you have done for our journey. Words cannot express how deeply grateful and appreciative I am for all the love, care, and support you have provided me and my family throughout our entire life journey. From the moment we arrived in the United Kingdom, feeling lost and lonely, your warm voice reached out to us, promising support and companionship, and it brought tears of joy to my eyes. ## **OUR APPROACH INVOLVES THREE WELL-EVIDENCED STRATEGIES** as detailed in our 2023 HBC Impact Report, available on our website www.happybabycommunity.org.uk ## **1 COMMUNITY-CENTRED APPROACH:** As a mother with a daughter and twin pregnancies, your presence and assistance were nothing short of miraculous. You cared for us like family, attending to every aspect of our well-being from our toes to our heads. When my twin babies were born and had to be in the intensive care unit, your constant calls and reassuring words gave us strength during a challenging time. We prioritise community involvement, creating a supportive environment where people with shared identities or affiliations come together to contribute to each other’s health and well-being. **2 USER-LED ORGANISATION:** Our approach empowers women to take the lead, ensuring they have a voice in local decisions and promoting social connections that foster good health and combat social exclusion. You have been instrumental in building our future, providing us with a home and everything we needed to thrive. Your generosity and goodness have touched us deeply, and the memories of those days spent with you bring tears of gratitude to my eyes. ## **3 FOCUS ON 0-3 YEARS:** Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of children aged 0-3 years living in restricted accomodation, providing crucial support during this critical developmental stage. Happy Baby Community, you are more than just an organisation to us; you are our extended family. Your unwavering support and love have made a profound impact on our lives, and we will forever cherish the memories we have created together. Through participatory approaches, we tackle health inequalities head-on, addressing marginalisation and empowering individuals to overcome adversity. At the Happy Baby Community, we are committed to breaking barriers and building a resilient, inclusive community that uplifts and supports every individual, no matter their circumstances. Together, we create a brighter future for these courageous mums and their children. I can only hope to convey a fraction of the overwhelming emotions I feel when I say thank you. Your kindness has forever changed our lives, and we are eternally grateful. ## Happy Baby Community Member ## **HOW WE MAKE CHANGE HAPPEN** The Happy Baby Community follows a theory of change model aligned with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. This model recognises that meeting basic needs is crucial before mums and their babies can pursue higher-level goals and feel able to thrive. **REFERENCES** The 2023 Happy Baby Community Impact Report The Perinatal Care Project – Evaluation 2023 ## **THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY THEORY OF CHANGE** Maslow’s **SELF-ACTUALISATION** hierarchy of needs Desire to become the **SELF-ACTUALISATION** most that one can be Respect, self-esteem, status, **ESTEEM** recognition, strength, freedom Friendship, intimacy, family, **LOVE & BELONGING** sense of connection Personal security, employment, **SAFETY NEEDS** resources, health, property Air, water, food, shelter, sleep, **PHYSIOLOGICAL NEEDS** clothing, reproduction ## **PHYSIOLOGICAL NEEDS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Welfare Partners &
Employment stakeholders
pathway
ESTEEM
Practical
NEEDS
support Perinatal
support
Doulas
BELONGING
PHYSIOLOGICAL SELF-ACTUALIZATIONSELF-
& LOVE
NEEDS ACTUALIZATION
Volunteers
Virtual
SAFETY
Therapy community
NEEDS
Safeguarding Outreach
Staff
Experts
**----- End of picture text -----**
10 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 11 ## **1374 WOMEN 67 COUNTRIES 1840 CHILDREN 560 BABIES** ## **THRIVING SELF-ACUALISATION** HBC leaders spoke at **11** Stakeholder Events Over **540** women actively engaged in skills training programs facilitated by the charity. ## **ESTEEM** **96%** of our Community leaders expressed a deep level of trust in the charity, enabling them to authentically be themselves while carrying out their responsibilities. **86%** of our Community leaders have a **100%** of our Community leaders, believe that their involvement strong sense of confidence in the consistent in the charity serves as a powerful source of inspiration for fellow recognition and serious consideration of their community members, fostering a positive outlook and confidence ideas within the charity. in their future prospects. **90%** of our Community leaders **90%** of our Community leaders express that **86%** of our Community leaders consistently experience an their engagement with the charity significantly consistently experience a high unwavering sense of purpose in contributes to the realisation of their long-term level of respect from their peers their work within the charity. aspirations and personal dreams. within the charity. **90%** of Community leaders **82%** of our Community leaders affirm that **30** Community Leaders say they feel valued and their involvement with the charity consistently have attended the respected by others for the provides invaluable assistance in overcoming Leadership Program work that they do. challenges and setbacks. **73%** of community leaders report receiving feedback from the **82%** of our Community leaders consistently said community, indicating that their involvement with the charity that their involvement with the charity mitigates has a highly beneficial impact on their mental health. feelings of isolation and loneliness a lot. ## **LOVE & BELONGING** > Supporting mums to give birth in **100%** of the team think that HBC always makes **22** hospitals across London community members feel cared for and valued **84** Partner organisations **132** Women participated in employment program **72** Community volunteers **78%** of the community engaging with the charity each month face to face **11** Paid staff / **82%** of paid staff are community members **97%** of the staff and volunteer team always feel connected to HBC **182** Volunteers **6** All 6 community co-ordinators with lived experience ## **SAFETY NEEDS** > Always open for referrals, no wait list **5** days a week referrals open **38** Women attending 1:1 therapy **1006** Under 3’s **618** New referrals called in own language **24** hour response **95%** of the community leaders attending Specialist Children sessions **184** Welfare cases supported reported feeling safer all the time **445** Perinatal referral calls **559** English **24** Health & wellbeing sessions run **398** women having 1:1 birth support lessons run online **154** Volunteers completing safeguarding training **445** Women supported with **238** Specialist sessions run for **2202** Attendances at **12** Safeguarding training sessions offered breastfeeding children under 3 years English classes **238** Face to face session / **5892** Attendances **71,448** own language texts (sent weekly) **11,780** Lunches & breakfast **315** Hospital bags / **11** Breasts pumps **5580** Travel refunds to enable women to **PHYSIOLOGICAL 2000** Period packs attend the groups **540** Data Sims **NEEDS 990** Baby and childrens clothes **4500** Bags of fresh food & meals to take-away **500** Winter coats ‘HBC’: Happy Baby Community 12 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 13 ## **THE REFUGEE JOURNEY** Happy Baby Community are supporting women and their children referred at all points in the asylum system. The process is slow – often taking years for a decision to be made by the Home Office. The Happy Baby Community offers a safe, stable and trusted community to these women and their children as they navigate the uncertainty and challenges of this system. ## **RESETTLED REFUGEES** ## **ASYLUM SEEKERS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
REMAIN IN REFUGEE CAMP OUTSIDE THE UK TRAVEL TO THE UK SEEKING ASYLUM
EXPOSURE TO HAZARDS IN TRANSIT & IN CAMPS
(e.g. injury, violence, exploitation, overcrowding, unsanitary EXPOSURE TO HAZARDS LOW/NO ACCESS TO
conditions) LIMITED ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE DURING TRANSIT HEALTHCARE FOR
(e.g. injury, violence, exploitation,
EXTENDED PERIODS
bad weather)
UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) IDENTIFIES & ASSESSES
VULNERABLE PEOPLE FOR RESETTLEMENT UNDER UK SCHEMES.
REFERS TO HOME OFFICE FOR ELIGIBILITY CHECKS
REQUEST ASYLUM AT PORT OF ENTRY,
OR AFTER ENTERING THE UK
IF ACCEPTED BY HOME OFFICE, IOM (International Organisation
for Migration) CONDUCTS PRE-DEPARTURE HEALTH
HOME OFFICE SCREENING INTERVIEW. OPTION TO APPLY FOR
ASSESSMENTS AND CULTURAL ORIENTATION. PROVIDES
ACCOMMODATION AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT IF DESTITUTE
TRAVEL ASSISTANCE, INCLUDING SUPPORT TO APPLY FOR UK
VISAS, ENROL BIOMETRICS & BOOK FLIGHTS
DESTITUTE ASYLUM SEEKERS HOUSED IN INITIAL
ACCOMMODATION CENTRES. BASIC HEALTH ASSESSMENT
LOCAL AUTHORITIES RECEIVE IOM HEALTH ASSESSMENTS
PROVIDED BUT TYPICALLY NOT REGISTERED WITH A GP
AND REFUGEES ARE MATCHED WITH ACCOMMODATION
APPROPRIATE TO THEIR NEEDS
DISPERSED TO LONGER-TERM HOUSING ACROSS THE UK
IOM ACCOMPANIES REFUGEES TO UK PORTS, WHERE LOCAL
AUTHORITY REPRESENTATIVES MEET THEM
HOUSING CONTRACTORS PROVIDE SETTLEMENT INFORMATION
AND SUPPORT, INCLUDING REGISTERING FOR HEALTHCARE
LOCAL CASEWORKER SUPPORT FOR 12 MONTHS TO ASSIST
WITH REGISTERING AND NAVIGATING HEALTHCARE AND
EDUCATION, INCLUDING ESOL AND BENEFITS ASSESSMENTS NOT PERMITTED TO WORK (some exceptions) OR ACCESS
MAINSTREAM RESIDENCY-BASED BENEFITS (E.G. ESOL CLASSES)
HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK AND TO ACCESS BENEFITS
IMMEDIATELY. TYPICALLY TREATED AS NORMAL UK CHARITIES AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS PROVIDE
RESIDENTS FOR ELIGIBILITY PURPOSES CASEWORK, ADVOCACY AND NAVIGATION SUPPORT,
AS WELL AS MENTAL HEALTH AND ESOL SERVICES
CAN APPLY FOR PERMANENT STATUS FREE OF CHARGE
AFTER 5 YEARS IN UK. EXEMPT FROM KNOWLEDGE AND MOST ASYLUM SEEKERS SUBSIST BELOW THE POVERTY LINE
LANGUAGE TEST REQUIREMENTS WHILE AWAITING A DECISION
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **DECISIONS ON IN-COUNTRY ASYLUM CLAIMS** The legal processes for the women in the asylum system and those who have been accepted as survivors of trafficking are very challenging. Being recognised as a survivor of trafficking by the National Referral Mechanisum does not entitle a women to asylum in the UK. ## **GRANTED LEAVE TO REMAIN** **----- Start of picture text -----**
REFUSED ASYLUM SEEKERS
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
GRANTED REFUGEE STATUS OVER TWO THIRDS OF ALL
OR HUMANITARIAN PROTECTION ASYLUM CLAIMS ARE REFUSED
PERMITTED TO REMAIN IN UK FOR 5 YEARS. THEN ABLE
NEARLY 40% OF
TO APPLY FOR PERMANENT STATUS FREE OF CHARGE AND
REFUSED ASYLUM
APPEALS ARE
EXEMPT FROM KNOWLEDGE AND LANGUAGE TEST
SEEKERS ARE
SUCCESSFUL BUT
EXPECTED TO LEAVE
PROCESS CAN BE
THE UK
LENGTHY
MUST LEAVE HOME OFFICE PROVIDED ACCOMMODATION
WITHIN 28 DAYS. FINANCIAL SUPPORT ALSO ENDS AFTER
28 DAYS
REFUSED ASYLUM SEEKERS MOVE IN AND OUT OF
ENTITLEMENT TO SUPPORT, AND ARE AT HIGH RISK OF
HOMELESSNESS AND DESTITUTION
ELIGIBLE TO WORK AND FOR MAINSTREAM BENEFITS
IMMEDIATELY, BUT MAY NOT BE IN PLACE WITHIN 28 DAYS
REMAIN IN UK AS DETAINED IN
DOCUMENTS PROVING ENTITLEMENT AND RIGHT TO WORK UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRATION CENTRES
ARE OFTEN DELAYED MIGRANTS UNTIL REMOVAL
RECEIVE HOME OFFICE OR LOCAL AUTHORITY SUPPORT IF
NEWLY RECOGNISED REFUGEES ARE AT HIGH RISK OF DESTITUTE, VULNERABLE OR HAVE DEPENDENT CHILDREN
HOMELESSNESS AND DESTITUTION UNTIL ABLE TO LEAVE UK
Data sourced from
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
“It’s to be said that HBC
“Undoubtedly, stayed with us, it was very
HBC is very helpful helpful for a single mum to
to all mums that we are deal with a lot of things and
here as immigrants and HBC released my stress as
to know what is going well and they gave me hope to
to happen when we enjoy my life again.”
give birth.”
**----- End of picture text -----**
14 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 15 ## The Happy Baby Community Governance ## **TRUSTEES** ## **BANKERS** CAF Bank, 25 Kings Hill Avenue, West Malling, Kent ME19 4JQ / Metro Bank, One Southampton Row, London, WC1B 5HA Penelope Farrar – Chair Sabrina Bals – Treasurer Sarah Hughes Andrena Cumella Annie Kelly Jill Miller Oufia Ibrir Methodia Mathias ## **TRUSTEE STATEMENT** The Trustees confirm that these financial statements comply with current statutory requirements and the charities constitution. The financial statements comply with Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK (FRS102) and the Charities Act 2011. ## **MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVES** Sue Balmer and Lucy Bracken – Co-Development Directors ## **FINANCIAL FRAMEWORK WITHIN WHICH HBC FUNCTIONS** ## **CHARITY NUMBER** Policies relating to reserves and the need to generate operating surplus together provide a financial framework within which HBC functions. 1181633 ## **REGISTERED OFFICE** ## **PUBLIC BENEFIT** 94 Engelfield Road, London N1 3LG In setting HBC’s strategic objectives and planning its activities, the Board of Trustees has given careful consideration to the Charity Commissions’ general guidance on public benefit. In particular the Board of Trustees considers how all planned activities contribute to the aims and objectives that have been set. ## **ACCOUNTANT** Catherine Sullivan FCA ## **THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY CHARITABLE OBJECTIVES:** **1** To preserve and promote the mental and physical health of pregnant women and women and girls, who have children under the age of 3 years, who have experienced physical or mental ill health or disability as a result of violations of human rights, torture, human trafficking and domestic and sexual violence and abuse. **2** To provide financial and other forms of relief for refugees and those seeking international protection, in particular mothers and their children who are in conditions of hardship or distress. **3** To advance the education and training of people in need thereof so as to advance them in life, build selfconfidence, basic skills and an ability to make an impact upon their own lives and assist them to adapt within a new community. ## **RESERVES POLICY** The Happy Baby Community holds £203,000 of unrestricted funds. The Charity Reserves Policy has been agreed in accordance with the Charity Commission Guidance. The charity reserves are an essential element of the strategic, operational and budgetary planning and are set to ensure the charity is operating with sufficient unrestricted funds to avoid financial challenges in 2023 and 2024. Happy Baby Community will maintain reserves equivalent to at least 25% of the annual operating expenditure, which based on budget forecast for 2023 amounts to £180,000. This target will be periodically reviewed and adjusted based on the organisation’s needs, financial position, and regulatory requirements. ## **PURPOSE OF RESERVES** Our reserves policy will cover: - Capacity building and growth: An unforeseen potential expenditure which would present a lost opportunity for the charity to make an impact if not pursued **–** Continuity of services: To ensure the continuous delivery of essential services, particularly during periods of temporary funding fluctuations or delays. This includes a critical source of income or grant not being renewed **–** Emergency and contingency: An unforeseen emergency or other unexpected need such as unforeseen operational costs HBC has unrestricted funds to meet the commitments within this reserves policy. The policy will be reviewed annually. ## **DELEGATED AUTHORITY** The Scheme of Delegation is reviewed annually by the Trustees. All banking transactions require two signatories . ## **CASH CONTROLS** The charity uses cash to refund travel costs for community members and volunteers attending the community groups. These are small payments @ £3.50–£15.00 Cash disbursements are authorised by designated staff members. Adequate documentation and supporting evidence, including invoices or attendance register reports, are maintained for all payments. Cash reconciliations are managed through our bookkeeping software – Xero, by our in-house book-keeper. All cash reconciliations are done daily. Monthly cash balance checks are completed and double checked by designated staff. ## **INCOME FOR 2022** The Happy Baby Community raised £378,780 in 2022 from donations and grants, enabling the charity to have significantly greater reach and provide more and equitable support to its community members. Drawings by Mani Winterstein 16 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 17 ## **SUMMARY OF RESULTS** In 2022 the charity allocated its unrestricted funds for the purpose of enhancing our organisational capacity with the explicit goal of ensuring timely acceptance of referrals, providing services in the preferred language of individuals, and ensuring equitable access to all our support. At Happy Baby Community ALL referrals are welcomed without exception. No one who meets our referral criteria is ever turned away. Our referrals increased by 55% in 2022 as a consequence of many services remaining closed post COVID for new referrals and an increase in the number of new and expectant mums being accepted into the asylum system and housed in London. Our commitment to these principles aligns with our core strategy, to empower and support community members, both children and mothers, to thrive. With the unrestricted funds allocated in 2022, we have undertaken specific initiatives to build our capacity and improve our service delivery in line with our objectives. These initiatives included: ## **DEVELOPING THE COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP TEAM** Through the generous support of the Lloyds Foundation, we have implemented a leadership program to empower and train our community members to effectively manage the charity’s operations. ## **EXPANDING VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT** We have dedicated resources to expand our volunteer management capabilities, enabling us to improve recruitment, retention, and development of community volunteers who play a vital role in our services. ## **STRENGTHENING MULTI-LANGUAGE REFERRALS TEAM** Additional resources have been allocated to enhance the capacity of our multilanguage referrals team, ensuring effective communication and support for individuals with diverse linguistic needs. ## **ENHANCING OUTREACH EFFORTS** Our outreach teams have undergone training to develop community ambassadors who can effectively engage with the community and expand our reach to provide support where it is most needed. ## **STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY HUBS** We have worked on developing our community hubs by fostering partnerships with local services and providing comprehensive training to our volunteers, enabling us to better meet the practical needs of community members. ## **MEETING BASIC NEEDS** With the allocated funds, we have been able to address the practical needs of community members, including providing essential items such as baby and child clothing, as well as food support. ## **ENHANCING WELFARE & THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT** We have significantly expanded our capacity to provide welfare and therapeutic support to community members, ensuring their overall well-being and resilience. ## **SUPPORTING PREGNANT & NEW MOTHERS** A key focus has been on the perinatal program, where we have recruited and trained doulas to provide comprehensive support for pregnant and new mothers during this critical period. ## **RISK MANAGEMENT** We understand that risk is inherent in the pursuit of our charitable objectives. By maintaining a robust risk management framework, we aim to minimise potential disruptions to our operations, protect the interests of our community members and all of our stakeholders and safeguard the staff, volunteers and community members both women and children. The Happy Baby Community recognises the importance of effective risk management in achieving our mission and ensuring the sustainability of our operations. We are committed to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that may impact our organisation. We are committed to transparency and accountability in our risk management practices. The Happy Baby Community is dedicated to delivering our mission and creating a positive impact while proactively managing risks. Our risk management approach is documented in our Risk Register. It involves: **RISK IDENTIFICATION:** We proactively identify potential risks by conducting regular assessments of internal and external factors that may affect our activities. This includes considering financial, operational, reputational, and regulatory risks. “I am in the top of the world because I have family around me. I don’t have anybody but with them I have family around me.” **RISK ASSESSMENT:** We evaluate the likelihood and potential impact of identified risks to prioritise and focus our mitigation efforts. This helps us allocate resources efficiently and implement appropriate controls. **RISK MITIGATION:** We develop and implement strategies, policies, and procedures to mitigate identified risks. This may involve establishing internal controls, adopting best practices, training our staff and volunteers, and maintaining appropriate insurance coverage. “It is like creating a community and helps **MONITORING & REVIEW:** We continuously you to not feel isolated.” monitor and review our risk management practices to ensure their effectiveness and responsiveness to evolving risks. Regular reviews allow us to make necessary adjustments and improvements to our risk mitigation strategies. ## **GOVERNANCE & LEADERSHIP:** Our Board of “I have big trust in them, and that’s why I don’t want to leave them also. Their care and even their smile is very nice.” Directors reviews the Risk Register quarterly. They actively engage in risk discussions and ensure that appropriate risk management policies and procedures are in place. 18 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 19 ## **GOING CONCERN** The Trustees of The Happy Baby Community have prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis, as they believe the charity has the ability to continue its operations for the foreseeable future. The Trustees have considered the following factors in making this assessment: ## **FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE:** The charity has reviewed its financial performance, including revenue generation, expenditure management, and funding sources, to ensure ongoing sustainability. Based on this analysis, the Trustees are confident in the charity’s ability to meet its financial obligations and maintain its operations. **FUNDING & RESERVES:** The charity has evaluated its funding sources and reserves to determine their adequacy in supporting current and future activities. The Trustees have taken appropriate steps to secure funding and maintain sufficient reserves to cover potential risks and uncertainties. ## **LONG-TERM PLANS & STRATEGIES:** The charity has developed long-term plans and strategies to fulfil its mission and objectives. The Trustees have considered the viability of these plans, taking into account any potential changes in the external environment and adapting accordingly. Based on the comprehensive assessment of these factors, the Trustees are confident that The Happy Baby Community will continue to operate as a going concern for the foreseeable future. They believe that the charity’s financial position, ongoing fundraising efforts, and prudent financial management practices provide a solid foundation for its continued operations and the fulfilment of its charitable objectives. The Trustees will continue to closely monitor the financial performance and sustainability of the charity, ensuring appropriate actions are taken to address any emerging risks or challenges. They remain committed to the prudent stewardship of the charity’s resources and the achievement of its charitable mission. “I want to say thank you so much for your support, you didn’t leave my side, you were like a mother, you trusted me & didn’t doubt me and I’m very thankful. I have no problem with my birth, I am very, very happy mother.” ## **RENUMERATION POLICY** The Happy Baby Community’s Remuneration Policy is designed with the following objectives: ## **ATTRACTING AND RETAINING HIGH-CALIBRE** **STAFF:** The policy aims to reward staff appropriately, particularly those with lived experience, to attract and retain exceptional individuals who can contribute to the organisation’s mission. ## **RESPONSIBLE RESOURCE UTILISATION:** The policy ensures that the charity’s resources are utilised properly and in alignment with its objectives. The remuneration levels are set within affordable limits, considering the financial circumstances of the charity. ## **NON-DISCRIMINATORY AND EQUITABLE** **EVALUATION:** The policy promotes fairness and equality by establishing a just and equitable framework for job evaluation and remuneration. It aims to provide a stable and consistent approach to evaluating roles and determining appropriate compensation. **ABOVE LONDON LIVING WAGE:** The policy commits to paying salaries that exceed the London Living Wage, recognising the importance of providing a fair and decent income for employees. The Happy Baby Community is dedicated to upholding these principles and objectives within its remuneration practices, fostering an environment of fairness, equality, and employee satisfaction. Renumeration is reviewed on an annual basis and agreed by the Board of Trustees. The Happy Baby Community places great importance on its volunteers, who often hold significant roles within the organisation. These key volunteers generously contribute their time and expertise without receiving any remuneration or other benefits from the charity. In-line with this commitment, both Co-Directors of the organisation have chosen to serve as volunteers, demonstrating their dedication to the cause. To ensure equitable treatment and support for all our staff, whether they are remunerated or voluntary, the Happy Baby Community has engaged the services of Peopletime. Peopletime provides essential training, HR advice, and ongoing support to ensure that all staff members, including volunteers, are treated fairly and receive appropriate assistance. ## **COMPLIANCE WITH LEGAL REQUIREMENTS:** ## **DEPENDENCE ON KEY INDIVIDUALS:** The charity has evaluated its reliance on key individuals, such as staff, volunteers, and Trustees, to ensure that suitable succession plans are in place. The Trustees have taken steps to mitigate any risks associated with the loss of key personnel. “I had a rough labour (...) and after gave birth to my daughter, I wrote Happy Baby a message. But it wasn’t a regular message – it was a message from the soul. It gets very emotional every time I think about it because it is the only door that was opened to me in England.” The policy operates within the bounds of the law, ensuring that all remuneration practices are in accordance with legal regulations and obligations. ## **SIMPLE AND TRANSPARENT PAY STRUCTURE:** The policy adopts a straightforward, transparent, and non-hierarchical pay structure. It maintains only two pay levels, simplifying the compensation framework and promoting transparency across the organisation. Drawing by Mani Winterstein **20 HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022** **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 21 ## **THE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** I have examined the accounts of the Happy Baby Community for the year ended December 2022, which comprise the Statement of Financial Position, the Statement of Activities, the Statement of Cash Flows, and the accompanying notes. My examination was conducted in accordance with the directions issued by the Charity Commission for England and Wales and with the International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland). I have also reviewed the accompanying notes to the financial statements and found them to be appropriate and adequately disclosed. ## Conclusion In my opinion, the financial statements of Happy Baby Community for the year ended December 2022 give a true and fair view, in all material respects, of the financial position of the charity as of that date and of its activities for the year then ended in accordance with the applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom generally Acceptable Accounting Practice) ## Responsibilities of the Trustees The Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom generally Acceptable Accounting Practice). This includes ensuring that the accounts present a true and fair view of the financial position of Happy Baby Community and its activities during the financial year. Catherine Sullivan, Independent Examiner, FCA Date: 01/08/2023 ## Independent Examiner’s Responsibility My responsibility as an independent examiner is to express a conclusion on these financial statements based on my examination. I conducted the examination in accordance with the International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland). This standard requires that I plan and perform the examination to obtain reasonable assurance as to whether the financial statements are free from material misstatements. ## Examination Findings Based on my examination, nothing came to my attention that indicates the financial statements of Happy Baby Community do not present a true and fair view, in all material respects, of the financial position of the charity as of December 2022 and of its activities for the year then ended in accordance with the applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom generally Acceptable Accounting Practice). Drawing by Mani Winterstein ## **STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES RESPONSIBILTIES** The Financial Statements for 2022 of the Happy Baby Community have been prepared by the Trustees in compliance with the relevant laws and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom generally Acceptable Accounting Practice). By employing these tools, we ensure accurate financial reporting and maintain efficient processes for managing and reconciling our receipts. The Happy Baby Community remains committed to adhering to the highest standards of financial transparency and accountability in line with our organisational values. The preparation of the 2022 Financial Accounts was overseen by Catherine Sullivan, a qualified Chartered Accountant (FCA). The information necessary for the accounts was provided by our bookkeeper, Erjola Sadria, and our retained financial consultant, Frances Taylor, also an FCA. Catherine Sullivan is a Chartered Accountant and Independent Examiner. Signed on behalf of the Board of Trustees To facilitate efficient record-keeping and reconciliation of receipts, the Happy Baby Community utilizes XERO, a cloud-based accounting software, along with the integrated receipt management service called Hubdoc. ## Penny Farrar Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Happy Baby Community, Date: 01/08/2023 Image : ‘Hugging the children’ © Anita Klein 22 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 23 ## “I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the hospital bag you recently sent me. As an asylum seeker, I am going through a very tough time, and your thoughtful gesture means a lot to me. I literally have tears in my eyes because I have no financial support at the moment and I am even struggling with the food & transport issues at the residence by the Home office. I cannot express in words how much I appreciate your kindness and support during this difficult period of my life. The hospital bag is not only a practical and helpful gift, but it also reminds me that there are still good people in the world who are willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. As you may know, I am currently facing challenging circumstances, and I am unable to rely on the support of my family and husband who abandoned me and my babby. However, your generosity has given me hope and strength to face these challenges and keep moving forward. Once again, thank you so much for your kindness and support & those who refer me towards your organization. I will never forget your thoughtfulness, and I will always be grateful for what you have done for me. With heartfelt thanks and best wishes.” Happy Baby Community Member ## **THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY 2023-2024** In The last quarter of 2022, we started engaging in extensive consultations with our community members, dedicated volunteers, staff, and valued stakeholders to craft a comprehensive twoyear plan. This plan reflects our unwavering commitment to fulfilling four strategic priorities. ## **PRIORITY 2** ## **PRIORITY 1** **WE ARE A GRASSROOTS CHARITY COMMITTED TO PROVIDING TRAUMA INFORMED SERVICES THAT MEET THE NEEDS OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN LIVING IN LONDON, SURREY AND SUSSEX WHO HAVE SURVIVED TRAFFICKING AND VIOLENCE AND WHO ARE SEEKING SAFETY IN THE UK, SO THAT THEY CAN THRIVE.** ## **WE ARE A USER-LED COMMUNITY** - **1** - Empowering User Voice: Prioritise the inclusion of the voices, perspectives, and experiences of the individuals the charity serves in decision-making processes. - **2** - Culturally Sensitive, Trauma Informed and Inclusive: Recognise and address the unique needs and experiences of marginalized communities, asylum seekers, migrants, and those facing intersectional forms of discrimination. **1** - Understand and Adapt Services: Identify and address the specific challenges and needs of asylum-seeking pregnant women and children, including practical, emotional, healthcare, housing, legal, and psychosocial support needs, while considering cultural and language barriers. - **3** Capacity Building for Community Members: Provide training, education, and skills development opportunities to enhance the capacity and leadership potential of individuals with lived experience. **2** - Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity: Recognize and address the unique needs of diverse populations, such as marginalized communities, immigrants, refugees, and those facing discrimination, by providing culturally sensitive services and promoting inclusivity in all aspects of the charity’s work. - **4** - Co-producing Services: Collaborate with community members to design and deliver services that meet their specific needs and preferences. **3** - Outreach and Engagement: Prioritise efforts to engage marginalized women and children who face barriers to accessing services. - **5** Embedded Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ensure fair and equitable access to resources and opportunities for all by incorporating principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of the charity’s work. **4** - Support Access to Education for Women: Ensure support and access to educational opportunities for asylum-seeking women. > **BY FOCUSING ON THESE KEY STRATEGIES, THE CHARITY 5 WILL CREATE A MORE INCLUSIVE AND IMPACTFUL APPROACH TO SUPPORTING ASYLUM-SEEKING PREGNANT WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN.** - Developmental Milestones Support: Provide resources and support for mothers and children to overcome challenges and meet appropriate child developmental milestones. 24 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 25 **BY IMPLEMENTING THESE STRATEGIES, THE CHARITY WILL BETTER SUPPORT ASYLUM-SEEKING PREGNANT WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN, PROMOTING THEIR WELLBEING AND EMPOWERING THEM TO OVERCOME BARRIERS AND ACHIEVE POSITIVE OUTCOMES.** ## **PRIORITY 3** **WE ARE A SUSTAINABLE CHARITY WITH CAPACITY AND ENERGY TO MEET THE NEEDS OF ALL REFERRALS.** - **1** Sustainable Governance: Prioritise longterm sustainability, diverse funding, and community involvement in decision-making. - **2** Risk Management and Funding: Mitigate risks, diversify funding, and ensure contingency planning. - **3** Capacity Building: Strengthen internal systems, staff training, and governance practices for effectiveness. - **4** Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster partnerships to leverage resources and maximize impact. - **5** Sustainability and Succession: Develop strategies for sustained volunteer-led models and smooth leadership transitions. - **6** Impact Evaluation and Feedback: Implement monitoring, evaluation, and user feedback for accountability and improvement. - **7** Trauma Informed: Embedding reflection, supervision and theraputic support for all staff and volunteers. ## **PRIORITY 4** ## **WE ARE A VOLUNTEER LED CHARITY.** **1** Volunteer Recruitment and Retention: Implement a comprehensive strategy to attract, recruit, and retain a diverse range of skilled volunteers. - **2** Volunteer Training and Development: Provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance volunteer capabilities. - **3** Volunteer Engagement and Recognition: Actively engage volunteers, foster a sense of ownership, and recognise their contributions. Identify and support volunteer leaders. - **4** Volunteer Diversity and Inclusion: Prioritise diversity and inclusivity by reaching out to underrepresented groups, ensuring equitable access, and fostering an inclusive environment. **BY IMPLEMENTING THESE STRATEGIES, WE CAN EFFECTIVELY RECRUIT AND RETAIN SKILLED AND DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS, PROVIDE THEM WITH MEANINGFUL ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES, AND FOSTER A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY.** ## **THE ACCOUNTS** ## **SECTION A: STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES** Annual accounts for the period 1 January – 31 December 2022 **----- Start of picture text -----**
Unrestricted Restricted 2022 Total 2021 Total
Note
(£) (£) funds (£) funds (£)
INCOME
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
186,321 192,433 378,754 483,192
Grants, donations & consultancies 2, 10
Interest income 26 26
TOTAL INCOME 186,347 192,433 378,780 483,192
EXPENDITURE
Raising funds 5,705 - 5,705 7,065
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES
253,054 193,002 446,056 413,608
Other 4,5
TOTAL EXPENDITURE 3 258,760 193,002 451,762 420,673
Net incoming/(outgoing) resources
(72,413) (569) (72,982) 62,519
before transfers
Transfers between funds 33,446 (33,446) - -
Net movement in funds (38,966) (34,016) (72,982) 62,519
Funds as at 1 January 242,937 36,679 279,616 217,097
Funds as at 31 December 8 203,971 2,663 206,634 279,616
**----- End of picture text -----**
The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses in the year. All income and expenditure derives from continuing activities. **BY FOCUSING ON THESE STRATEGIES, THE CHARITY WILL ENSURE SUSTAINABLE GOVERNANCE, EFFECTIVE OPERATIONS, AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT TO MAKE A LASTING IMPACT.** Image right : ‘The new baby’ © Anita Klein **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 27 26 ## **SECTION B: BALANCE SHEET** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Note 2022 (£) 2021 (£)
CURRENT ASSETS
Debtors and accrued income 6 - 15,087
Cash at bank and in hand 224,540 277,708
Total current assets 224,540 292,795
LIABILITIES
Creditors: Amounts falling due
7 17,906 13,180
within one year
Net current assets 206,634 279,616
Net assets 206,634 279,616
THE FUNDS OF THE CHARITY
Unrestricted 203,971 242,937
Restricted 2,663 36,679
Total funds 8, 9 206,634 279,616
**----- End of picture text -----**
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Signature Print name Date of approval (dd/mm/yyyy)
Approved by the Trustees and
signed on their behalf by: PENNY FARRAR 20/08/2023
**----- End of picture text -----**
Additional information on the items contained in these summary Financial Statements is available in the full accounts of the Charity which are available on request and are filed with the Charity Commission. ## **SECTION C: NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS** ## **NOTE 1: ACCOUNTING POLICIES** ## **1.1 THE BASIS OF ACCOUNTING** ## **1.9 PENSION COSTS** Governance costs compare all cost involving the public accountability of the charity and its compliance with regulations and good practice. The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value, unless otherwise stated in the notes to these accounts. The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme for employees. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the company. The annual contributions payable are charged to the statement of financial activities. ## **1.4 FIXED ASSETS** Only assets with a purchase price of at least £3,000 are capitalised. There are no assets of that value in the charity. These Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of recommended practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102) and the Charites Act 2011. ## **1.10 GOING CONCERN** At the time of approving the financial statements, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements. ## **1.5 LIABILITIES** The charity has very limited liabilities for the locations that it rents to facilitate its community work. All current rental agreements have a one month or less termination condition. The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the Charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The charity has responsibility to its 11 paid staff. All permanent staff are on one month notice. The Trustees have ensured that the cost of closure held in the reserve policy includes at least a 3 months notice period should the charity be closed. ## **1.11 CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS** In the application of the Charity’s accounting policies the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. ## **1.2 RECOGNITION OF INCOME** All income is recognised on receipt of income. Donations and grants are recognised on settlement date. In the event that a donation or grant is subject to conditions that require a level of performance before the charity is entitled to drawn down on the grant, then that part of the funds will not be recognised until those conditions are fully met. ## **1.6 TAXATION** No tax provision is include in the financial statements as its a registered charity and entitled to exception from tax under Section 505 of the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988. ## **1.7 GIFT AID** The charity has recently applied to HMRC to register for Gift Aid. Thereis allowance for a two year retrospective claim which is expected to amount to @ £3000. There is no interest on funds, as no funds are currently held on deposit. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. ## **1.3 EXPENDITURE** Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis. All expenses including support costs and governance costs are allocated or apportioned to the applicable expenditure headings. Cost in respect of future activities are charged when the relevant activity takes place. ## **1.8 FUND ACCOUNTING** The charity has restricted funds, where the donor has specified that they can only be used on specific projects in future. All other funds are unrestricted. 28 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 29 ## **NOTE 2: GRANTS, DONATIONS AND CONSULTANCIES** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 (£) 2021 (£) 2022 (£) 2021 (£)
UNRESTRICTED RESTRICTED
AB Charitable Trust - 15,000 Blue Thread - 10,000
Birthrights - 4,320 Cadbury Barrow - 9,800
Esme Fairbairn 15,000 Croydon COF - 5,000
Lloyds 27,250 - Lloyds Bank Foundation - 52,351
ICS 6,010 16,302 Smallwood Trust - 24,831
London Quakers 11,548 4,000 HBC Redhill - 26,285
Marshall Family Trust - 10,188 Children in Need 33,149 -
D McPhail 4,000 London Churches 1,500 1,500
National Lottery - 9,666 ROSA – Women Thrive 49,831 -
Fund
Sir James Reckitt - 5,150
Sutasoma Trust 7,132 7,000 First Community Health & Care CIC 22,890 -
Sylvia Adams 10,000 - Alliance for Better
14,580 -
Health
The Blue Thread 43,000 10,000
Other 62,382 30,694 NHS - 8,333
Total unrestricted 186,321 112,320 Purley Food Hub - 6,560
Hestia / Starting Well 69,192 171,578
Sylvia Adams CT - 40,000
Two Magpies - 14,634
Other 1,290 -
Total restricted 192,433 370,872
Total grants, donations
378,754 483,192
and consultancies
**----- End of picture text -----**
“When you are volunteering you are happy because you are helping. Your conscience is happy, you are putting your head on your pillow at night by thinking that today you’ve done something, and that makes you happy.” ## **DONATED GOODS AND SERVICES** No material donations to be disclosed (2021: £nil) ## **NOTE 3: EXPENDITURE** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 2021
Charitable Raising Charitable Raising
Total Total
Activities funds Activities funds
Fundraising 5,705 5,705 - 7,065 7,065
Staff 178,130 178,130 101,308 - 101,308
Direct provision for service users 127,726 127,726 146,199 - 146,199
Other programme costs 28,088 28,088 50,732 - 50,732
Governance 11,767 11,767 11,441 - 11,441
Rent and office costs 100,321 100,345 103,903 - 103,927
Total expenditure 446,032 5,705 451,762 413,584 7,065 420,673
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **NOTE 4: STAFF COSTS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 (£) 2021 (£)
Wages and salaries 163,935 99,951
Employer's National Insurance costs 11,751 502
Employer's contribution to defined
2,444 855
contribution pension scheme
Total Staff costs 178,130 101,308
**----- End of picture text -----**
The average headcount in 2022 was 4.5 (2021:4). No employee earned over £50,000 in the year (2021: nil) “They went above and beyond to help me and be there for me (...) Actually, they’re improving themselves every day (...) Happy Baby has taught me everything that I know about being a mum and has helped me with every single thing that I needed as a new mum for my daughter.” **----- Start of picture text -----**
“Thank you
very much, since
you exist, we feel
like we are in our
homeland.”
**----- End of picture text -----**
30 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 31 ## **NOTE 5: TRUSTEE’S REMUNERATION** Trustees’ expenses of £nil were reimbursed (2021: £nil) One Trustee, Jill Miller, received payments of £16,060 in 2022 for the provision of consultancy services on the perinatal programme. This was specifically approved by the Board. ## **NOTE 6: DEBTORS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 (£) 2021 (£)
Trade Debtors - 12,500
Debtors and accrued income - -
Other Debtors - 2,587
Total Debtors - 15,087
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **NOTE 7: CREDITORS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 (£) 2021 (£)
- -
Expense creditors
Trade creditors 17,906 8,950
Taxation and social services benefits - 3,439
Accruals - 9,124
Deferred revenue -
Total Creditors 17,906 21,513
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **NOTE 8: ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS OVER FUNDS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
2022 2021
Unrestricted Restricted Total Unrestricted Restricted Total
funds funds funds funds funds funds
Net current assets 203,971 2,663 206,634 242,937 36,679 279,616
Total net current assets 203,971 2,663 206,634 242,937 36,679 279,616
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **NOTE 9: FUNDS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Transfer
Brought Carried
Income Expenditure between
Forward forward
funds
UNRESTRICTED
Total unrestricted funds 242,937 186,321 (257,350) 33,446 203,971
RESTRICTED
Sylvia Adams 20,626 - - (20,626) -
ROSA - 25,000 (25,000) - -
Alliance for Better Health 5,000 - - (5,000) -
First Community Health 8,110 37,470 (45,843) 263 -
and Care CIC
Children in Need - 33,149 (33,149) - -
Smallwood Trust - 24,831 (24,831) - -
Hestia - 69,192 (61,109) (8,083) -
Purley Food Hub 2,943 - (2,730) - 213
Other - 2,790 (340) - 2,450
Total restricted funds 36,679 192,433 (193,002) (33,446) 2,663
Total funds 279,616 378,754 (450,352) - 206,634
**----- End of picture text -----**
## **NOTE 10: RESTRICTED FUNDS** Sylvia Adams Charitable Trust – Childrens’ Program. ROSA- UK Fund for Women and Girls – Employment Program Alliance for Better Health – Redhill Community First Community Health and Care CIC – Redhill Community Smallwood Trust – Leadership Program Hestia – Starting Well – Perinatal Program. Purley Food Hub – Community food support “It went the opposite way and everything that I wanted to avoid, happened (but) I would want this doula, this exact person, to accompany me during birth again.” ## **NOTE 11: COMMITMENTS UNDER OPERATING LEASES** The charity had no commitments under non-cancellable operating leases in the year (2021: £nil) ## **NOTE 12: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS** In both 2021 and 2022 there were no related party transactions. 32 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 33 ## **WORKING TOGETHER** The Happy Baby Community works closely with 84 dedicated organisations and countless individuals, all driven to empower families in overcoming daily hurdles to nurture thriving lives for mums and their babies. ## **OUR COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS THE HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY TOGETHER YIELD INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS PERINATAL PROGRAM WITH A SHARED PURPOSE:** In 2013, the Happy Baby Community Perinatal program emerged from Jill Miller’s resolute vision. A founding force of our charity, she witnessed the harrowing impact on women and their babies who’d survived violence and trafficking – left feeling alone during childbirth. Developing a skilled and committed team of birth partners and doulas, the Happy Baby Community Perinatal program has with community members co-produced a service that has for 9 impactful years, held the hands of thousands of women who asked for our help in childbirth, transforming their experience of childbirth in a positive and empowering way. - Ensuring universal accessibility - Prioritising safety and security - Infusing compassion throughout - Nurturing sustainability - Seamlessly integrating with allied services - Shaping best practices - Driving positive systemic change in healthcare services. ## **TOGETHER, WE ARE COMMITTED TO MAKING A TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT.** ## **THE PERINATAL SUPPORT PROJECT EVALUATION IS AVAILABLE AT: WWW.HAPPYBABYCOMMUNITY.ORG.UK** Our Perinatal Program gives women an essential companion on the profound journey of childbirth, offering invaluable physical and emotional support. Rooted in both compassionate trauma informed care and evidence-based practices, the birth support team bring a wealth of knowledge to the birthing process. Their presence is characterised by their deep understanding of the physiological and emotional intricacies involved, allowing them to provide a reassuring and calming influence in the delivery room. In partnership with our colleagues in healthcare, The Happy Baby Community Perinatal Program has been demonstrated to significantly contribute to optimal maternal outcomes. Offering a holistic approach that aligns with medical care. ## **COLLABORATIVELY EMPOWERING BIRTH CHOICES** Our goal is to ensure that every mother has the opportunity and the ability to allocate time and express her own choices. Within the Perinatal Program at Happy Baby Community: **–** Every pregnant mother engages in discussions in her preferred language with our perinatal team **–** Invitations to sessions and personalised preparations for birth in the UK, infant feeding, and new-born care are extended - The chance to express birth preferences is offered **–** A personal doula is offered – a companion through birth and the preceding and subsequent weeks **–** Ongoing individual perinatal peer support is available. ## **NO MOTHER WITHIN THE COMMUNITY FACES BIRTH ALONE, UNLESS SHE CHOOSES TO DO SO.** Quotes from Midwives... “She went above and beyond to care for the woman” “Happy Baby Community helps mums to feel heard and seen instead of being a number or another case.” Happy Baby Community welcome collaboration with research that enables system changes that will improve the chances of women and their children to thrive. ## **THE PERINATAL PROGRAM HAS CONTRIBUTED TO:** **– BIRTHRIGHTS:** Perinatal Information on Women’s Rights and Advocacy **– CITY OF SANCTUARY MATERNITY STREAM:** – Steering group **– DR KERRIE STEVENSON, MAMAH STUDY:** Steering group - **MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH SOCIETY:** Developing a Mental Health Toolkit for Communities - **MIDWIFE JO CULL, UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE:** Guidelines for Medical Practitioners to Discuss Previous Trauma with Pregnant Women. **– MIDWIFE ELLA CAINE, DARZI FELLOW:** Language Barriers and Provision of Interpretation in Maternity Care for Migrant women. - **INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIRTH AND PARENT EDUCATION** : Speaker **– MATERNITY CONSORTIUM:** Speaker **– UCLH- NEONATAL CARE PRACTITIONERS:** Speaker **– UCLH STUDENT OB-GYN SOCIETY:** Conference speaker **– LULLABY TRUST:** Multi-lingual Development of Safe Sleeping Guidelines for Women who are Seeking Asylum **– BIRTH COMPANIONS:** Women Facing Disadvantage in Maternity **– ROYAL COLLEGE OF MIDWIVES:** Advisory on policy for the care of migrant women - **ROYAL COLLEGE OF OBSTETRICIANS & GYNAECOLOGISTS:** Advisory on policy for the care of migrant women 34 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 **HAPPY BABY COMMUNITY** Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for Year Ending December 2022 35 Report design by oakshed.co.uk ## **OUR PARTNERS** **----- Start of picture text -----**
Run by:
The Rights Lab
Croydon
Methodist Circuit
**----- End of picture text -----**