## Annual Report **Seacroft Friends and Neighbours** Registered CIO 1183406 For the period 1[st] October 2023 to 30[th] September 2024 |**Seacroft Friends and Neighbours,**
1081 York Road,
Leeds, LS14 6JB (Registered Ofce)|Contact number:|0113
2734979| |---|---|---| |Seacroft Friends and Neighbours,
Kentmere Community Centre,
Kentmere Avenue, Leeds LS14 1BW|Contact number:|0113
2323662| Website: https://www.seacroftfriends.org.uk **2** ## **CONTENTS** ||||| |---|---|---|---| |1|INTRODUCTION||3 - 5| |2|PERSONNEL||6| |2.
1|MEMBERS OF STAFF||6| |2.
2|TRUSTEES||6| |2.
3|VOLUNTEERS||6 - 8| |3|CLIENTS||8| |4|FINANCE||8 -10| |5|FUNDING||10 - 11| |6|PREMISES and EQUIPMENT||11 - 12| |7|SERVICES PROVIDED||| |7.
1|SUPPORT||12| |7.
2|HEALTH, FRAILTY AND WELLBEING||12 – 13| |7.
3|REFERRALS||13 – 14| |7.
4|ACTIVITIES||14 – 16| |7.
5|TRANSPORT||16| |7.|FEEDBACK||16| **3** |6|||| |---|---|---|---| |8|MONITORING||17| |9|RISK MANAGEMENT||17 – 18| |10|WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP||18| |11|TRUSTEE APPOINTMENTS||19| |12|POLICIES, PROCEDURES and TRAINING||19 - 20| |13|PROMOTING OUR SERVICES||20 - 21| |14|ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS||21 - 22| |15|CONCLUSION||22 - 24| **4** ## **1. INTRODUCTION** Seacroft Friends & Neighbours (SFN) is a Charity Incorporated Organisation, formed in 2018/19 following the merger of North and South Seacroft Friends and Neighbours groups. It is one of 37 Neighbourhood Network Schemes operating in Leeds. We are regulated by the Charities Commission. Seacroft is categorised as one of the most deprived in the UK by government metrics. It is also a place of great character and history, many of the residents have historical connections to the area so feel strong connections to it. Our objectives, as defined in our constitution, are that we aim to provide the following to people over 60 living in Seacroft: - to support people living at home; - reduce isolation and loneliness amongst older people; - maintain or improve personal health and wellbeing - provide services or assist people to obtain services. We do this by providing flexible, dedicated, quality services with an emphasis on knowing members personally and providing personal contact, activities and opportunities to socialise. We offer a wide range of support and activities giving opportunities for communication, meeting others, exercise and fun! We have a small team of dedicated, trained staff and an active team of amazing volunteers providing around almost 500 volunteer hours every quarter. Our trustees give up their time and provide valuable experience and expertise in support of the organisation, supporting the staff, ensuring we comply with local and national regulations and are providing services in accordance with our constitution. We work closely with many local healthcare providers and support services and are often required to fill a gap between these organisations and those living at home or with their families. We have 1045 registered clients which is an **increase of 8.8%** compared to the previous year. and 694 active clients, an **increase of 43%** . The increase in demand comes at a time when the Government and local Council are cutting expenditure. **5** There are several reasons for the increase in numbers: - a) People are getting out more as they recover from the covid restrictions and the personal impact of these; - b) Needs are greater (see below, long-term impact); - c) Government institutions have a better understanding of the services provided and can make clients aware; - d) We have been actively contacting people face-to-face and have been making efforts to ensure local people are aware of the help the charity can provide. Staff have worked with the LS14 ‘We Are Seacroft’ group to increase advertising; - e) We had an additional staff member working with clients; - f) lunch clubs have become more popular and as more people attend, they spread the word. During the period 1[st] October 2023 to 30[th] September 2024 clients and staff have been recovering from the intense pressures they were subjected to as a result of the Government Covid restrictions and mandates. Individuals continue to be adversely impacted even after four years, long-term effects are still being felt, and this must be taken into consideration by authorities for the future. Long term effects include: - clients suffering from more complex healthcare needs/personal issues, thus requiring additional support; - noticeable deterioration in the mobility of a greater number of clients, and increasing the need for specialised transport; - an increase in those suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s and other neurological issues. This impacts those suffering from these conditions but also their partners, families and carers some of whom are themselves elderly and in need of support; - increased anxiety. The staff team continue to prioritise vulnerable clients. Staff and volunteers continued to restrict contact with each other and with members if they contracted covid or other respiratory illnesses to reduce **6** transmission. Whilst Covid concerns may have waned, clients are now faced with mounting costs for basics such as housing costs, food, energy and transport. This is proving to be challenging and again increases demand for services. As an organisation we are also faced with rising costs and have to balance charges with the need to provide good quality services to as many people as need them while they also deal with financial constraints. The final stages of the implementation of a robust financial system have been completed this year. As with many computer systems this has required staff to implement changes to working practices in order to fit with the system. We are grateful to John Scott, Heera Singh and Carol Lockwood for their support in implementing the changes. We have written and introduced additional board level procedures for example a comprehensive risk management procedure (see section 12). The Food Standards Agency inspected kitchen facilities on both the Seacroft and Kentmere Community Centre sites (July 2024 and August 2024 respectively). Both were rated as excellent and we maintained our five-star rating. **We carried out a client satisfaction survey and are very pleased that services, value, for money, transport, service delivery and facilities were rated as satisfactory or very satisfactory.** ……………………………………. Shirley M. Dann BSc Chair of Trustees, Seacroft Friends and Neighbours **7** ## **2. PERSONNEL** ## **2.1 MEMBERS OF STAFF** One member of staff left at the start of the year at the end of a fixed term contract. Two staff members were recruited during the period; one to support the befriending and social care activities and one to carry out catering duties. We reviewed/carried out benchmarking exercise looking at pension payments and life assurance benefits and amended both. We are grateful to all our staff members for their input and care they show for the clients. The skill set across the team is very broad and we are fortunate to have experienced people. ## **2.2 TRUSTEES** One of our long-standing members and a trustee for some time stood down following ill health. We are grateful to all our trustees who provide valuable input, time and expertise in support of the organisation. ## **2.3 VOLUNTEERS** The number of volunteers and the hours provided to the charity both reduced during the period. There are several reasons for this: - i) The impact of the covid restrictions has eased off. As people are now more able to get out and services have resumed to a more normal level people are travelling more there is less need for some of the activities that were being done. - ii) Our volunteer lead worked with the volunteer team to streamline and clarify roles. This meant there was less overlap in the volunteer activities. Volunteers agree in advance which days / times they are coming in (previously it was more random, so sometimes we would have too many and on other occasions too few volunteers). - iii) The two new paid members of staff took on duties previously carried out by volunteers. This reduced the number of hours volunteers **8** provided for these activities. Some of our volunteers were able to have a well-earned rest! As a result of all of these changes the volunteer team decreased from 28 to 16. Service levels have been maintained and the services are more efficient. Staffing as at end Sept 2024: |Trustees|5| |---|---| |Staf|7| |Volunteers|16| We provided training for volunteers and put together a training plan for the coming period. Many of our volunteers are themselves over 60. This gives them opportunities to help others, remain involved, active and contact with others. ## This quote is from one of our volunteers – _‘Seacroft Friends and Neighbours have given me the chance to meet a lot of new people. I enjoy chatting with them and hearing their stories. I attend the luncheon club and think my waitress skills are improving, if very slowly. My bingo skills are still very poor!_ _I have enjoyed the trips and meals out enormously. They are a lot of fun and enjoyed by all.In many ways the club has been a lifeline for me these past few months. I feel valued and appreciated and have a lot of fun’._ In addition to our regular activities, we held some special events through the year at Christmas and a summer holiday. Volunteers provide support in the following areas: - Transport assistants - Telephone contact with members - Befrienders - Helping with access to technology - Arts and Crafts - Mans World - Lunch Club - Activities (eg bingo) - Trips out **9** On average around 200 volunteer hours were contributed **every month** in the period (Oct 23 to end Sept 2024). Trustees also donate their time and expertise for no monetary reward. While we can estimate the financial value of volunteer time (in excess of £65,000 p.a.) that does not reflect the whole picture, such as the many benefits to those volunteering; the care and commitment given to people they live beside and know as friends, the flexibility in terms of hours donated and the local knowledge. Without this support, we would be unable to maintain the high level of services we currently provide to older residents in Seacroft. The trustees carried out an annual salary review and staff were awarded an uplift which reflected economic conditions and salaries paid to Government employees in similar roles. ## **3. CLIENTS** At the end of the year we have 1045 registered clients; we had direct involvement with 694 clients. Around 200 clients receive home visits every quarter and around 80-100 are health related. We have over 100 clients with some degree of dementia and many of our clients are over 75. Some are in their 90’s and still attend meetings! Some clients attend several activities and are mobile, others rely on being picked up by the minibus, while others are supported at home. Some are in contact but do not currently use the services however they know how to contact us should they need to. Refer to Section 7 for more information about the services. ## **4. FINANCE** We obtained a card reader to reduce the need for the use of physical cash and improve traceability of petty cash. The card reader became active in this financial period. As a charity we have maintained the ability to use cash as both **10** a risk management tool in the event of digital system failure and for those clients who prefer it. However, we are mindful of the need to balance staff safety and the continued reduction of physical banks associated with the ongoing use of cash. Our thanks to Carol Lockwood, John Scott and Heera Singh (HSL) for supporting these improvements and others as our implementation of Quick Books nears completion. ## Financial Position at 30/09/2024 A full set of accounts has been prepared and will be submitted with the annual return to the Charities commission. The accounts have been prepared by HSL Accountancy Solutions and agreed by the Trustees. As at 30/9/2024 Turnover for the year was £232,843. Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds Income £30,846 £201,997 £232,843 Expenditure £18,477 £221,476 £239,953 The accounts show a deficit of £7,110 for the year, compared with a surplus in the previous two years. Refer to full accounts for detailed figures. The main changes to income were: - Lunch club funding reduced by £7,593. This was somewhat offset by a general grant of £6,989. We are very conscious of the value the lunch clubs provide to clients and will look into how we sustain this service. - There was no home energy support grant and donations reduced by just under £7,000. Less was spent on members costs and volunteer expenses, while food supplies, office costs, transport and wages all increased. More than 80% of expenditure went to directly supporting clients, activities and services. **11** Comprehensive cash flow forecasts are generated and trustees review this at finance and property and general trustee meetings. This enables us to plan effectively, assess funding needs and manage cash flow ensuring there are sufficient funds available to support operations. A ‘buildings’ reserve fund was set up as part of our business continuity strategy. We review our reserves policy annually to do our best to ensure that we have the financial means to provide an ongoing quality service and take into account potential future financial and other external challenges. Moving forward we plan to utilise the reporting element within lamplight to help identify key aspects rather than compiling manually. This will require additional training for staff. The mechanical problems with the minibus resulted in some unplanned expenditure. The minibus has special access and when it was out of action we had no option but to hire a replacement to maintain services. No expenses were claimed by any of the trustees. Accounts for the period have been prepared and following independent audit by HSL and are issued as a separate document. Both will be submitted to the Charities Commission in line with regulations. Overall our financial position is healthy and we have built in some resilience taking into account the potential drop in Council Funding. We review where money is spent to ensure that it is spent in compliance with the funding purpose and that restricted funds are used within their limitations. We try to get good value for money whilst recognising that quality is important. ## **5. FUNDING** We were grateful to receive an extension to the funding provided by Leeds City Council. We feel that we provide excellent value for money and valued services to clients as evidenced by the Enhance Report (Ref 1) and the Client Feedback Survey (Ref 2 and see section 7.6). The Trustees and volunteers willingly provide **12** their time, enthusiasm, skills and experience on a voluntary basis which means the overall costs are lower and we provide good value for money. We acknowledge that the charity depends on funding to provide services. The staff team look out for funding opportunities and have been successful in completing bid applications. We have set up a ‘Go Fund Me’ account which may be used to collect funds from charity events. The table below shows where funding comes from. |**Source of funding**|**Purpose**|**Status**| |---|---|---| |Leeds
Benevolent
Society - Single ladies|In line with Charity
objectives|Given as one-of
payments.| |Leeds
City
Council
Enhance project|Provides
additional
support to clients with
the most complex health
needs.
(Note1below)|Extended to May 2025| |Leeds City Council Core
funding – Adult Social
Care|Rent, staf, provision of
services|Extended to Oct 2025.| |Lunch club grant
Ref A729988|Subsidises the provision
of Lunch Club|Current- annual award
expires 09/05/2025| |Winter warm funding|To
provide
winter
warming packs|One-of| |We
Are
Seacroft
Collectivefunding|Warm spaces provision|One-of| |NHS Community Arts
project|To provide arts and
crafts projectsforclients|Ongoing| Note 1 – the Enhance project has specific objectives, we are required to demonstrate how the services and activities we provide are aligned with the objectives. Refer to monitoring section for details. **13** We continue to apply for funds both independently and as part of Seacroft Collective; where they support our aims and objectives and we feel we can utilise the funds effectively. Personal donations continue to enhance our works; these donations are often from existing clients grateful for support or families of former clients. We acknowledge the security of Leeds City Council Grant which forms a large part of our current income and which runs until 30 September 2025. ## **6. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT** The upgraded facilities at Chapel FM, with the office space and kitchen are working well and are very good condition. The kitchen is well maintained. Facilities at Kentmere are not maintained to such a high standard, they are managed by a different group. Expanding services (either to more clients or offering a wider range of services) is heavily constrained by the availability of suitable premises. Both Kentmere and Chapel FM are used by other groups so access is restricted. We continue to hold reserve funds specifically for building provision and maintain an awareness of potential availability locally. We use the specialised minibus and our own driver to transport clients. Looking ahead if we have an increase in the number of clients with poor mobility we recognise the need to budget for an additional minibus. This also requires us to have sufficient space to accommodate additional numbers safely in the premises, somewhere to store the minibus and staff to drive the bus. ## **7. SERVICES** ## **7.1 SUPPORT** We carry out home visits where required to assess needs and check progress on actions. We maintain contact through the telephone befriending service. This is mainly for housebound clients. They appreciate the contact and can discuss issues with someone they know. The newsletter went out to 960 people. **14** Support services include: - assisting clients to obtain external services; - ensuring they are able to attend health appointments; - emergency prescription service; - hearing aid clinics; - support to access benefits and financial aid, including pension credit; - emergency hot meal delivery; - one-to-one intensive support, information and identifying specific personal needs; - telephone welfare checks; - help in dealing with emergencies including deaths, funerals and sudden illness; - in the event of no other options, we can help with essential equipment; - emergency shopping; - telephone befriending; - help with online shopping; - help in understanding and paying utility bills; - fitting key safes and wall mounted post box; - technology loan and support. ## **7.2 HEALTH, FRAILTY AND WELLBEING** Older peoples’ well-being and independence are within our constitutional / charitable over- arching aims. Our Health Lead (ENHANCE funded) continues to work with NHS contacts on mental health, dementia and the city-wide Frailty Project. Project work includes building relationships, identifying barriers to health improvements, preventing ill health and encouraging clients to remain independent at home. Clients are provided with practical support, dealing with housing issues, completing official documents, aids adaptations, referral or support with podiatry, continence, hearing and medical interventions to try to keep that independence. Case studies are recorded and submitted to funders. The frailty work looks at a personalised care, designed around improving selfmanagement skills to help people improve/maintain their mobility and strength. **15** This is key to enabling clients to continue to live at home. ENHANCE is working well and we can demonstrate our ability to achieve the desired outcomes. Leeds Older Peoples forum (managing agent of ENHANCE) are aware that communication between the NHS and partners such as Seacroft Friends and Neighbours could be better, and if it was, referrals would likely increase. They are working with all partners to improve this. We are registered as a dementia friendly organisation. Three members of staff are trained dementia champions. All members of staff are trained in ‘mental health first aid’. ## **7.3 REFERRALS** We refer clients to other groups/services and we also receive referrals. The table below shows how many referrals were received within a three-month period. The table below list where referrals came from in Year 6 Q2: |New client referrals (22
total)||| |---|---|---| ||Self-referrals|**6**| ||Family/friends/carers|**6**| ||Social care|**4**| ||Health services|**5**| ||Social prescribing|**1**| |Existing members referred
internally|Access a new service area/area
of support|**24**| We received around 100 referrals in a year. We made referrals on behalf of older people to groups including: |GP’s|Nurses|Social Services|Benefts| |---|---|---|---| |Continence|Disability
adaptations|Obtain Equipment|LCC bins| |Carers Leeds|Hearing and Sight|Councillors|Keysafes| **16** ||loss||| |---|---|---|---| |Chiropody|Telecare|Gardener|Memory support| |Mental health|Ambulance|Power of Attorney|Safer Leeds| |Library|Occupational
Therapist|Falls service|Hot
meal
delivery| |LCC Housing/
adaptations|Voluntary sector
organisations||| ## **7.4 ACTIVITIES** We provide activities relating to health and fitness, wellbeing and general enjoyment as well as lunches. Lunches provide people with contact with others, encourage them to get out as well as providing nutritious meals. The table below lists regular group activities and who we partner with. The table below lists our regular activities and indicates how many people took part. Q1 and Q3 numbers included for information. |Activity|Number
of
participan
ts Q1|Number
of
participan
ts Q3| |---|---|---| |Chair based exercise- Mondayand Friday|**198**|**154**| |Lunch club - Monday|**280**|**348**| |lunch club Tuesday /Outngs|**158**|**140**| |lunch club Wednesday|**360**|**384**| |Crafgroup|**160**|**96**| |Thursdaylunch club|**160**|**240**| |Dementa support|**160**|**108**| |Singingsensaton- open voices|**284**|**246**| |Mans world|**78**|**36**| |Cofee and cake|**100**|**144**| |Hearingaid support|**38**|**12**| |Befrienders|**440**|**610**| |Emergencyshopping|**28**|**-**| |Emergency prescripton collecton|**16**|**-**| |Tech support|**84**|**19**| |Newsleter|**960**|**-**| |Handyman service|**36**|**-**| **17** |Patent transport|**12**|**-**| |---|---|---| |Jigsaw exchange|**32**|**12**| |Knit and knater|**32**|**26**| |Daytrips Fridays and Tuesdays|**168**|**268**| |TuesdayArtgroup|**96**|**120**| |TuesdayHealth Hub|**160**|**120**| Trips out are organised through the year these included: - International Day of Older people – a group of clients were taken to Headingly Stadium for a special event hosted by Age Friendly Leeds, followed by a meal in a local pub; - Trip to Bridlington funded through a donation in memory of a longstanding volunteer; - We celebrated International Women’s Day with a trip to Murgatroyds, famous for fish and chips; - Trips to seaside, Filey and Whitby; - Visit to Hawthorne Farm with lunch; - Outing to Junction 32. We held celebrations for Christmas at Hazlewood Castle, 50 clients took part. A special buffet lunch was prepared for one of our groups to celebrate International Women’s Day. These activities have important benefits, which include: - helping to maintain or improve mobility; - reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness; - allowing staff to assess the health of those attending (seeing people regularly allows staff to see deterioration which may not be obvious to others where contact is less frequent); - helping to maintain nutritional levels; - clients have choice and control over which activities they take part in which increases independence; - helping to make people feel valued, especially those who volunteer; - providing interest and enjoyment; **18** - providing education and information to enable clients to make informed choices. We provide many of our services at no cost, we ask for a small contribution for some of the trips and activities but we ensure that clients are not excluded for financial reasons. We welcome donations towards running these events. ## **7.5 TRANSPORT** Having a minibus with a dedicated driver is an excellent resource. It is well used and appreciated by clients. The vehicle has good access for those with low mobility. It is used to transport our least mobile clients to lunch clubs and activities, health appointments and for shopping. As mentioned above we are conscious that if a greater number of clients have mobility issues we will consider whether a second vehicle is required. More of our members have required use of the minibus to enable them to get out to activities, lunches or appointments. Although the minibus is not very old and has been well maintained we had mechanical problems with it in Sept 2024 that caused cancellation of services and an additional cost to the charity to hire an alternative minibus. It highlighted how valuable this service is to clients and that it forms an essential part of the services. ## **7.6 FEEDBACK** Feedback forms were sent out to around 900 clients, we received 181 completed forms back. We sent stamp addressed envelopes to try to increase the response rate. This was a 20% response rate (compared to 15% the previous year). We asked clients to rate activities and services in relation to value for money, service delivery, how satisfied they were with the facilities, how satisfied they were with the transport provided and their level of satisfaction with specific activities. **ALL responses that we received indicated that clients were satisfied or very satisfied. (Ref 2)** **19** The replies showed that clients are happy with the services we offer along with the quality and value for money. When clients were given the opportunity to share any additional non-specific feedback or further suggestions around what services they would like to see offered, an **annual supported holiday and a** **second / larger mini bus were recurring themes.** We will take this feedback into account in the coming year. ## **8. MONITORING** We use Lamplight to submit reports and complete a quarterly return for Leeds City Council and the Enhance funding. The Enhance desired outcomes are as follows: - 1) Take a person-centered approach by coproducing flexible effective and tailored cross-sector wrap-around welfare support which leads to improved outcomes for individuals. - 2) Empower more individuals to manage their own health needs and improve their own health needs and improve their own social connections, quality of life and/or wellbeing - 3) Reduce pressure (planned and unplanned) on Neighbourhood teams by investing in third sector services to complement clinical service provision. - 4) Develop stronger partnerships between third sector organisations and health and social care professionals in Leeds to support timely discharge from hospital and reduce pressure on the wider health system - 5) Use a test, learn, improve approach to build on our understanding of ‘what works in Leeds to develop partnership working with NT’s, improve outcomes for individuals and to evaluate impact on individuals, NT’s and the wider system We report quarterly against these desired outcomes. We supply numerical data and case studies to provide assurance that we are delivering against the objectives of the funders. We have discussions with the commissioning group, and partners which help us to ensure we are applying the right standards. Accounts are externally, independently audited by HSL. **20** We maintain an internal action log to capture key actions and record when complete, progress is reviewed in trustee meetings. Our thanks to those who diligently record and compile the data for submission. ## **9. RISK MANAGEMENT** We have assessed high level risks to our ability to provide a quality service. The biggest risks to the organisation are displayed locally these were assessed as follows: 1. Loss of core funding; 2. Insufficient staff and shortage of trained staff required to provide the range of services; 3. Continuity of services In addition, we recognise that access to suitable facilities and availability of transport (as mentioned previously) both restrict growth. We will continue to monitor these ‘risks’ We address the financial risks through effective forecasting and where we can see a shortfall in funds, we will seek alternative/additional funding or take steps to manage expenditure. Staff have received training such that we can cover short term absences. We have carried out risk assessments for activities. Staff are trained so they know what steps are to be taken to reduce risks. If incidents occur we assess whether a risk assessment is required. ## **10. WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP** One of the key strengths of the organisation is the ability to liaise and work alongside other organisations. We accept referrals and help clients get the help they need from other service providers. This was highlighted as a benefit in the independent Enhance Review (Ref 1). We continue to work in partnership with a wide range of organisations. **21** ## Partners include: |Chapel FM|Local GP’s and staf in healthcare
facilities|Local churches| |---|---|---| |Local Councillors|Local police and fre services|LS14 trust| |NHS colleagues|Seacroft Village Hall Committee|Yorkshire dance| |Fall into Place|Leeds Community Spaces|| |SCOT
(Seacroft Community On Top) helped with shopping||| |WASP (We Are Seacroft Partnership) ofering intergenerational opportunities.||| |ENHANCE collective (delivering key services to keep people out of hospital
and encourage hospital to home.||| |Leeds Neighbourhood Neighbourhood - Seacroft Friends and Neighbours are
one of 37 groups in the local network. We play an active part in the group,
sharing documentation, ideas and support in group meetings.||| |Bishoph Young Academy – allow us to park the minibus within the grounds
where it is secure.||| ## **11. TRUSTEE APPOINTMENTS** Trustees assist staff with financial controls, buildings, policies and procedures. Sinead O’Connor has joined the board of Trustees as an interested party and will be added formally in the next financial year. Mick Firth’s position as a trustee has not been extended due to ill health. Sheonagh Clarke and John Scott agreed to a further three-year term. |**Name**|**Positions held**|**Appoint**
**ed**|**Next Review date**| |---|---|---|---| |Pearl Allen|Member Trustee
Member of HR/policies and
procedures sub committee|2/12/21|2ndDec 2024| **22** |Sheonagh
Clarke|Member of HR/policies and
procedures sub committee
Deputy Chairof trustees|25/3/21|25th Mar 2027| |---|---|---|---| |Shirley Dann|Chair of Trustees
Secretary
Member of HR/policies and
procedures sub committee and
fnance and property sub
committee|2/12/21|2ndDec 2024| |Graham Hyde|Member of fnance and property
sub committee|2/12/21|2ndDec 2024| |John Scott|Treasurer
Member of fnance and property
sub committee|15/4/21|15thApril 2027| |Sinead
O’Connor|Joined informally. Will be
formally added to the board.|2024|| The annual report for the period ending Sept 2023 and the independently audited accounts were submitted to the Charities commission using their online filing system and CIO information held by the Charities commission was updated by the Chair of Trustees. ## **12. POLICIES, PROCEDURES and TRAINING** We have systems and procedures in place to satisfy Safeguarding, GDPR, Health & Safety, DBS, Food Hygiene, Finance and other statutory requirements as by the Charities Commission. The Gifts and Bequests procedure and the Risk Management procedure were both implemented in the last financial period. This included posting a copy of what we have assessed as the five greatest risks to the charity. Efforts have been made during the year to prepare and implement additional policies reflecting the development of the charity. There were nine new policies prepared and issued during the period: - Maternity policy - Bereavement policy - Shared parental leave policy - Compassionate Leave Policy **23** - National Data Opt Out Policy - Trans and Gender Identity Policy - First aid and Guidance for Provision (one for Chapel FM and another for Kentmere) - Staff retention policy The Data privacy policy was updated. Staff have been made aware of these policies and training provided as required. All other policies and procedures have been reviewed according to the review schedule. We have an up-to-date organisation chart. Mandatory staff training has been carried out. Our Food Hygiene Lead carried comprehensive training in the area of food allergy awareness and Food Hygiene for safety and catering practices procedures. To assist with the prep of all foods meals to comply with nutritional standards and cover special religious and cultural needs. ## **13. PROMOTING OUR SERVICES** We continue to send out a physical newsletter to clients. Four newsletters were circulated (Winter 2023, Spring 2024, Summer 2024 and Autumn 2024). These can be retained by members for information which they may need in an emergency. It reminds people which activities are available and when, there are contact numbers for those interested in taking part and information relevant to the season. We receive referrals from other organisations which allow us to offer services to those who may not have heard of us. This was brought out in the Enhance report (ref 1) where Leeds Community Health Staff described how being able to refer people to Neighbourhood Networks saved them time, gave them peace of mind that issues were being picked up by someone else especially when they were unable to do so. The funding for the Enhance scheme is changing which we hope does not severely impact on the services provided. We are listed as part of the Neighbourhood Network Scheme online. **24** Both our facilities are central and accessible to clients living in Seacroft, these are multi-use so people also find out about us through connections there. Some of our clients come to us by word-of-mouth. We get involved in local events in particular with Chapel FM and the LS14 Collective, which helps to promote the services. The minibus can be seen by others when in use which helps promote the transport service. We have an active web site which is maintained by one of our staff members. We can view the number of unique visitors to our website, duration of the visit and how many pages were viewed. Last year the average number of views per month was around 60-70. The average this year is around 95 per month. The chart below has low numbers for Dec and August which are typically when the facilities are closed for some of the time. ## **14. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS** We greatly appreciate the input from our trustees. Working within the constitution, their expertise, advice and guidance, freely given, is vital to the operation of the charity. We are grateful to our wonderful volunteers, without whom the charity would not be able to support as many people. **25** Our thanks to the Neighbourhood Network Commissioners who support us with advice and information. It is through donations and funders we are able to continue delivering high quality, friendly, caring services to the community of Seacroft and East Leeds. We are again grateful for the continued financial support received from the Leeds Single Ladies Benevolent Society. Their donations help us to support the most vulnerable clients of our elderly community. We recognise the substantial contribution made by Leeds City Council which enables us to provide continuity of services and to make long term plans to support local older residents. We understand from discussions, meetings and reports such as the Enhance Report prepared by Dr Sarah Alden that the contribution we make is valued and valuable. We are grateful to Leeds City Council for recognising this contribution and it is sad that other councils have not taken the initiative on board. We appreciate the work carried out by the managers at Chapel FM and Kentmere Road and those who maintain these facilities **.** We know from client feedback that the services our staff and volunteers provide is hugely appreciated and makes a positive difference to their lives. The trustees are very grateful for our staff team and volunteers who support clients’ needs in a both a professional and caring manner. ## **15. CONCLUSION** Covid continues to cause some issues in relation to ill health and the continued impact on general health and mobility, however other priorities such as costs of housing, energy and food have become more of a concern. We have seen that Seacroft Friends and Neighbours is a key part of the **‘preventative model of public services, based on developing community-based resources and assets’** which the Council recognise is vitally important especially in an area **26** such as Seacroft where there is a higher than average number of older people, lower incomes and greater deprivation. Looking at the Enhance and LCC funding desired outcomes we provide better health outcomes for our clients, particularly those who have more complex needs. We contact people individually and get to know clients and their specific needs. Staff deliver information and health related advice to improve health outcomes where required assist people to attend ensure medical appointments and obtain medicines. We have strong partnerships with other local third sector groups as described in section 10 ‘working in partnership’, and are keen to develop stronger relationships with the NHS groups particularly around referrals. We review how things have gone and identify improvements where possible, if actions are identified these are listed on the action log. We achieve this through: a team of trained staff and volunteers; knowing people in, and working closely with, the local community; providing services and activities that support independence, health and wellbeing, reducing loneliness and isolation. We provide a cost-effective service through targeted, effective, expenditure, voluntary support and working with others. SFN’s primary focus is supporting older people in Seacroft. We have done this through our provision of activities, referrals, assistance and services. We will continue to work with commitment, building community spirit and lifting the mood amongst the client group and encouraging new people to join, seeking funding, where required, in order to do this. We are committed to achieving a high standard of support to clients in a professional manner through training, policies, procedures, monitoring and working with others. We will continue to look for ways to assist as many people as we can within the area we operate, and to develop and support our staff team. Signed: …………………………………….. Shirley M. Dann Position: Chair of Trustees Date: ……………………………… **27** References 1. Enhance Report LCH Staff Feedback Prepared by Dr Sarah Alden Oct 2024 2. Internal report documenting client feedback Aug 2024 Accountancy Solutions ## SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Financial statements for the year ended 30[th] September 2024 ## Charity number: 1183406 Charitable Incorporated Organisation Registered England and Wales > **[Call: 07926 450 250 ] Email: info@hslaccountancysolutions.co.uk www.hslaccountancysolutions.co.uk** **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Contents of the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ||Page| |---|---| |Administrative Details|1| |Trustees Report|2 - 3| |Independent Examiners Report|4| |Statement of Financial Activities|5| |Balance Sheet|6| |Notes to the accounts|7 - 10| **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Administrative details for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ## **Registered Charity number** |||| |---|---|---| |**Registered Charity number**|1183406|| |**Trustees and Management Committee**|Shirley Dann|– From 14 May 2019| ||John Scott|– From 15 April 2021| ||Graham Hyde|– From 04 July 2019| ||Pearl Allen|– From 13 May 2019| ||Sheonagh Clarke|– From 25 March 2021| |**Administrative address**|Seacroft Friends and|Neighbours| ||1081 York Road,|| ||Leeds|| ||LS14 6JB|| |**Bankers**|Yorkshire Bank Plc|| ||32 Town Street|| ||Leeds.|| ||LS18 4RJ|| |**Independent Examiner**|Heera Singh FMAAT|| ||HSL Accountancy Solutions Ltd|| ||Enterprise House|| ||4-6 Thorne Road|| ||Doncaster|| ||DN1 2HS|| Page 1 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS The trustees present their annual report for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ The trustees submit their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 30[th] September 2024. ## **Governing document** The organisation is operated under the rules of its constitution which was adopted 14[th] May 2019. ## **Objectives and activities** Within the Seacroft area to relieve persons aged 60 or over who are in need by reason of their ages, ill health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage, in particular but not exclusively by the provision of assistance including information, advice and support, to relieve the needs of such persons in such ways the trustees shall think fit. ## **Achievement and performance** (Refer to annual report for additional information). During the period 1st October 2023 to 30th September 2024 clients and staff have been recovering from the intense pressures they were subjected to as a result of the Government Covid restrictions and mandates. Individuals continue to be adversely impacted even after four years, long-term effects are still being felt, and this must be taken into consideration by authorities for the future. ## Long term effects include: - clients suffering from more complex healthcare needs/personal issues, thus requiring additional support; - noticeable deterioration in the mobility of a greater number of clients, and increasing the need for specialised transport; - an increase in those suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s and other neurological issues. This impacts those suffering from these conditions but also their partners, families and carers some of whom are themselves elderly and in need of support; - increased anxiety. The staff team continue to prioritise vulnerable clients. Staff and volunteers continued to restrict contact with each other and with members if they contracted covid or other respiratory illnesses to reduce transmission. Whilst Covid concerns may have waned, clients are now faced with mounting costs for basics such as housing costs, food, energy and transport. This is proving to be challenging and again increases demand for services. As an organisation we are also faced with rising costs and have to balance charges with the need to provide good quality services to as many people as need them while they also deal with financial constraints. The final stages of the implementation of a robust financial system have been completed this year. As with many computer systems this has required staff to implement changes to working practices in order to fit with the system. We are grateful to John Scott, Heera Singh and Carol Lockwood for their support in implementing the changes. We have written and introduced additional board level procedures for example a comprehensive risk management procedure (see section 12). The Food Standards Agency inspected kitchen facilities on both the Seacroft and Kentmere Community Centre sites (July 2024 and August 2024 respectively). Both were rated as excellent and we maintained our five-star rating. We carried out a client satisfaction survey and are very pleased that services, value, for money, transport, service delivery and facilities were rated as satisfactory or very satisfactory. ## **Reserves policy** The Trustees are aiming toward a target of 6 months running costs and closure costs. The policy is ever changing, however, the Trustees feel confident they would be able to meet this. ## **Statement of Public Benefit** The public benefit from our work can be seen with an enhanced quality of life for older residents, improving wellbeing with advice, support and signposting. Advocacy with health and financial issues to reduce inequalities see in this area. A reduction in social isolation from bringing people together, having regular contact with staff and other residents allowing friendships to form. We help provide a link to their community helping residents feel informed, included and consulted. Page 2 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS The trustees present their annual report for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ## **Statement of trustees' responsibilities** Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity at the year end and of its incoming resources and resources expended during that year. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to: - select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP; where applicable - make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees declare that they have approved the above report. Signed on behalf of the trustees Signed: Position: Trustee Date: 18th July 2025 Page 3 **Independent examiners report to the trustees of SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS for the period ended 30th September 2024** I report on the accounts of the charity for the ended 30th September 2024 which are set out on pages 5 to 6. ## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner** The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: - examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; - follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and - state whether particular matters have come to my attention. ## **Basis of independent examiner's report** My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair view” and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. ## **Independent examiner's statement** In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: - 1 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements: - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and - to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or - 2 to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Mr Heera Singh FMAAT Date: 21[st] July 2025 HSL Accountancy Solutions Ltd Enterprise House 4-6 Thorne Road Doncaster DN1 2HS Page 4 ## **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Statement of Financial Activities (Incorporating the Income and expenditure account) for the period ended 30th September 2024** |**Income from:**
**Notes**
**Grants and donations**
**2**
Donations
Grants
**Investments**
Bank interest
**Total**
**Expenditure on:**
**4**
**Cost of fundraising**
**Charitable activities**
**Total**
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
**Net movement in funds after transfers**
Total funds brought forward at 1st October 2023
**Total funds carried forward 30th September 2024**|**Unrestricted**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**funds**
**fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
12,287
12,598
24,885
31,857
6,989
189,399
196,388
201,904
11,570
0
11,570
10,547| |---|---| ||**30,846**
**201,997 **
**232,843**
**244,308**| ||1,158
22,861
24,019
40,130
17,319
198,615
215,934
178,811| ||**18,477**
**221,476**
**239,953**
**218,941**| ||12,369
-19,479
-7,110
25,367
0
0
0
0
**12,369**
**-19,479**
**-7,110**
**25,367**
285,386
105,170
390,556
365,190| ||**297,755**
**85,691 **
**383,446**
**390,556**| The statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All activities of the Charity are classed as continuing. The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 10 form part of these financial statements. Page 5 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Balance sheet As at 30th September 2024** |**Notes**
**Fixed Assets**
**4**
**Current Assets**
Debtors
**5**
Cash at bank & in hand
**Creditors - amounts due within one year**
**5**
**Net current assets/liabilities**
**Net assets**
**Fund represented by**
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
**Total**|**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
4,362
6,527
621
557
379,313
384,323| |---|---| ||379,935
384,879
-850
-850
379,085
384,029| ||**383,446**
**390,556**| ||297,755
285,386
85,691
105,170| ||**383,446**
**390,556**| The financial statements on pages 6 and 7 were approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by: Signed: Position: Trustee Date: 18th July 2025 The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 10 form part of these financial statements. Page 6 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **1 Accounting policies** ## **1.1 Basis of preparation** These accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historic cost convention, with items recognised at cost or transaction value, unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s), in accordance with: (a) The Charities Act 2011 - (b) Accounting & Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP FRS102) (effective January 2015) The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern. ## **1.2 Incoming resources** These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA). Incoming resources are recognised when: - (a) The company becomes entitled to the resources - (b) The directors are virtually certain they will receive the resources; and - (c) The monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability Where incoming resources have related expenditure (as with fund-raising or contract income) the incoming resources and related expenditure are reported gross in the SoFA. Grants and donations are only included in the SoFA when the company has unconditional entitlement to the resources. Contractual income is only included in the SoFA once the related goods or performance related services have been delivered. Investment income is included in the accounts when receivable. ## **1.3 Expenditure** Expenditure is charged to the statement of financial activities on an accruals basis, inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered. Expenditure is classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred in the delivery of the charity’s activities and services for its beneficiaries, including both direct and support costs. Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting constitutional and statutory requirements, including Accountancy fees. ## **1.4 Fund accounting** Restricted funds are funds received from donors which are subject to restrictions on the purposes for which they may be used of which have been raised for a specific project. Unrestricted funds are those where there are no externally imposed restrictions. These include funds freely available to the charity for expenditure or appropriation to reserves for internally designated purposes. ## **1.5 Assets** Tangible assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and cost at least £500. They are valued at cost, or, if gifted, at the value to the company on receipt. The rates applicable are; Office equipment - 20% on cost Motor vehicles - 25% reducing ## **1.6 Taxes** The company is not VAT registered. As a Charity the company is exempt from taxation on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or s256 of the Taxation of chargeable gains Act section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or s256 of the Taxation of chargeable gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. ## **1.7.** ## **Creditors** Creditors are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount, usually the invoice amount. Accrued charges are normally valued at their settlement amount. ## **1.8. Debtors** Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid. Page 7 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** |**2**
**Incoming resources:**
**Grants and donations**
Lunch Clubs
Enhance Funding
General grants
Home Energy Support
LCC - Adult Social Care
LCC - Mice
Leeds Benevolent Society - single ladies
Donations
**Investment income**
**3**
**Expenditure on:**
**Cost of raising funds**
Members costs
Instructor costs
Staff expenses
Volunteer expenses
Food supplies
Training
**Charitable activities**
Wages
Rent
Insurance
Telephone
Postage and stationery
Motor vehicles - depreciation
Computer equipment - depreciation
**Support costs**
Office costs
Transport
Professional fees|**General**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**Fund**
**Fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
0
3,551
3,551
11,144
0
41,028
41,028
41,055
6,989
0
6,989
0
0
0
0
4,484
0
124,221
124,221
124,221
0
600
600
0
0
20,000
20,000
21,000
12,287
12,598
24,885
31,857
19,276
201,997
221,273
233,761
11,570
0
11,570
10,547
**General**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**Fund**
**Fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
168
258
425
19,558
0
200
200
950
716
5,048
5,764
5,506
16
620
637
2,143
258
15,212
15,470
11,835
0
1,523
1,523
138| |---|---| ||**1,158**
**22,861**
**24,019**
**40,130**| ||**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
9,024
173,575
182,599
151,321
2,530
5,461
7,991
7,819
0
1,000
1,000
398
58
322
380
1,149
0
631
631
2,128
0
1,454
1,454
1,939
711
0
711
711
2,507
9,458
11,965
8,061
2,489
5,037
7,526
3,740
0
1,676
1,676
1,545| ||**17,319**
**198,615**
**215,934**
**178,811**| Page 8 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **4 Tangible fixed assets** |**4**
**Tangible fixed assets**|**4**
**Tangible fixed assets**||| |---|---|---|---| |**Motor**
**Office**
**Total**
**Vehicles**
**equipment**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**Cost**
18,558
3,557
22,115
Additions
0
0
0
Disposals
0
0
0
At 30th September 2024
18,558
3,557
22,115
**Depreciation**
At 1st October 2023
12,742
2,846
15,587
Charge this period
1,454
711
2,165
At 30th September 2024
14,196
3,557
17,753
**Net book value at 30th September 2024**
**4,362**
**0**
**4,362**
**Net book value at 30th September 2023**
**5,816**
**711**
**6,528**
**5**
**Debtors and creditors**
**2024**
**2023**
**Debtors**
**£**
**£**
Trade debtors
621
557
**Creditors (amounts falling due in one year)**
**£**
**£**
Other creditors
-850
-850
**6**
**Trustees remuneration, benefits and expenses**
There were no trustees' remuneration in the period of these accounts.
**7**
**Movement of funds**
**Opening**
**Incoming**
**Expended**
**Closing**
**01.10.2023**
**resources**
**resources**
**30.09.2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**Unrestricted funds**
285,386
30,846
-18,477
297,755
**Restricted funds**
Hardship Fund
4,228
0
-436
3,792
Lunch Clubs
0
16,149
-15,753
396
LCC - Adult Social Care
80,237
124,221
-122,978
81,480
Leeds Benevolent Society - single ladies
20,705
20,000
-40,705
0
Enhance Funding
0
41,028
-41,028
0
LCC - Mice
0
600
-576
24
**390,556**
**232,843**
**-239,953**
**383,446**||**Motor**
**Vehicles**
**£**
18,558
0
0|**Office**
**Total**
**equipment**
**£**
**£**
3,557
22,115
0
0
0
0| |||18,558|3,557
22,115| |||12,742
1,454|2,846
15,587
711
2,165| |||14,196|3,557
17,753| ||||| |||**4,362**|**0**
**4,362**| ||||| |||**5,816**|**711**
**6,528**| ||||**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
621
557| ||||**£**
**£**
-850
-850| ||**390,556**
**232,843**
**-239,953**
**383,446**||| Page 9 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **7 Movement of funds (continued)** Leeds Benevolent Society for Single Ladies provide help to around 80 members around the city. The society have regular meetings, get-togethers and outings and offer financial help to qualifying people or groups which includes buying domestic items, grants towards holidays, paying phone bills, TV licences and providing someone to tour the various members’ homes ensuring they’re safe and sound. LCC Core grant -The LCC Adult Social Care provides core funding which are used to pay for salaries and overheads. This funding enables us to maintain a stable and consistent service and to plan ahead. Enhance Funding – Provides additional support to clients with the most complex health needs. LCC – Mice – Towards electrical equipment. Hardship fund – Provide support to members experiencing hardship. Lunch clubs - Subsidises the provision of Lunch Club ## **8 Previous periods figure** The previous periods figure are provided, where available, for comparison purposes only. Page 10 Accountancy Solutions ## SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Financial statements for the year ended 30[th] September 2024 ## Charity number: 1183406 Charitable Incorporated Organisation Registered England and Wales > **[Call: 07926 450 250 ] Email: info@hslaccountancysolutions.co.uk www.hslaccountancysolutions.co.uk** **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Contents of the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ||Page| |---|---| |Administrative Details|1| |Trustees Report|2 - 3| |Independent Examiners Report|4| |Statement of Financial Activities|5| |Balance Sheet|6| |Notes to the accounts|7 - 10| **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Administrative details for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ## **Registered Charity number** |||| |---|---|---| |**Registered Charity number**|1183406|| |**Trustees and Management Committee**|Shirley Dann|– From 14 May 2019| ||John Scott|– From 15 April 2021| ||Graham Hyde|– From 04 July 2019| ||Pearl Allen|– From 13 May 2019| ||Sheonagh Clarke|– From 25 March 2021| |**Administrative address**|Seacroft Friends and|Neighbours| ||1081 York Road,|| ||Leeds|| ||LS14 6JB|| |**Bankers**|Yorkshire Bank Plc|| ||32 Town Street|| ||Leeds.|| ||LS18 4RJ|| |**Independent Examiner**|Heera Singh FMAAT|| ||HSL Accountancy Solutions Ltd|| ||Enterprise House|| ||4-6 Thorne Road|| ||Doncaster|| ||DN1 2HS|| Page 1 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS The trustees present their annual report for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ The trustees submit their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 30[th] September 2024. ## **Governing document** The organisation is operated under the rules of its constitution which was adopted 14[th] May 2019. ## **Objectives and activities** Within the Seacroft area to relieve persons aged 60 or over who are in need by reason of their ages, ill health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage, in particular but not exclusively by the provision of assistance including information, advice and support, to relieve the needs of such persons in such ways the trustees shall think fit. ## **Achievement and performance** (Refer to annual report for additional information). During the period 1st October 2023 to 30th September 2024 clients and staff have been recovering from the intense pressures they were subjected to as a result of the Government Covid restrictions and mandates. Individuals continue to be adversely impacted even after four years, long-term effects are still being felt, and this must be taken into consideration by authorities for the future. ## Long term effects include: - clients suffering from more complex healthcare needs/personal issues, thus requiring additional support; - noticeable deterioration in the mobility of a greater number of clients, and increasing the need for specialised transport; - an increase in those suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s and other neurological issues. This impacts those suffering from these conditions but also their partners, families and carers some of whom are themselves elderly and in need of support; - increased anxiety. The staff team continue to prioritise vulnerable clients. Staff and volunteers continued to restrict contact with each other and with members if they contracted covid or other respiratory illnesses to reduce transmission. Whilst Covid concerns may have waned, clients are now faced with mounting costs for basics such as housing costs, food, energy and transport. This is proving to be challenging and again increases demand for services. As an organisation we are also faced with rising costs and have to balance charges with the need to provide good quality services to as many people as need them while they also deal with financial constraints. The final stages of the implementation of a robust financial system have been completed this year. As with many computer systems this has required staff to implement changes to working practices in order to fit with the system. We are grateful to John Scott, Heera Singh and Carol Lockwood for their support in implementing the changes. We have written and introduced additional board level procedures for example a comprehensive risk management procedure (see section 12). The Food Standards Agency inspected kitchen facilities on both the Seacroft and Kentmere Community Centre sites (July 2024 and August 2024 respectively). Both were rated as excellent and we maintained our five-star rating. We carried out a client satisfaction survey and are very pleased that services, value, for money, transport, service delivery and facilities were rated as satisfactory or very satisfactory. ## **Reserves policy** The Trustees are aiming toward a target of 6 months running costs and closure costs. The policy is ever changing, however, the Trustees feel confident they would be able to meet this. ## **Statement of Public Benefit** The public benefit from our work can be seen with an enhanced quality of life for older residents, improving wellbeing with advice, support and signposting. Advocacy with health and financial issues to reduce inequalities see in this area. A reduction in social isolation from bringing people together, having regular contact with staff and other residents allowing friendships to form. We help provide a link to their community helping residents feel informed, included and consulted. Page 2 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS The trustees present their annual report for the period ended 30th September 2024** ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ## **Statement of trustees' responsibilities** Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity at the year end and of its incoming resources and resources expended during that year. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to: - select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; - observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP; where applicable - make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - state whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practice have been followed subject to any departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The trustees declare that they have approved the above report. Signed on behalf of the trustees Signed: Position: Trustee Date: 18th July 2025 Page 3 **Independent examiners report to the trustees of SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS for the period ended 30th September 2024** I report on the accounts of the charity for the ended 30th September 2024 which are set out on pages 5 to 6. ## **Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner** The charity’s trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: - examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; - follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act; and - state whether particular matters have come to my attention. ## **Basis of independent examiner's report** My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a “true and fair view” and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. ## **Independent examiner's statement** In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: - 1 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that, in any material respect, the requirements: - to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and - to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or - 2 to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Mr Heera Singh FMAAT Date: 21[st] July 2025 HSL Accountancy Solutions Ltd Enterprise House 4-6 Thorne Road Doncaster DN1 2HS Page 4 ## **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Statement of Financial Activities (Incorporating the Income and expenditure account) for the period ended 30th September 2024** |**Income from:**
**Notes**
**Grants and donations**
**2**
Donations
Grants
**Investments**
Bank interest
**Total**
**Expenditure on:**
**4**
**Cost of fundraising**
**Charitable activities**
**Total**
Net income/(expenditure)
Transfers between funds
**Net movement in funds after transfers**
Total funds brought forward at 1st October 2023
**Total funds carried forward 30th September 2024**|**Unrestricted**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**funds**
**fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
12,287
12,598
24,885
31,857
6,989
189,399
196,388
201,904
11,570
0
11,570
10,547| |---|---| ||**30,846**
**201,997 **
**232,843**
**244,308**| ||1,158
22,861
24,019
40,130
17,319
198,615
215,934
178,811| ||**18,477**
**221,476**
**239,953**
**218,941**| ||12,369
-19,479
-7,110
25,367
0
0
0
0
**12,369**
**-19,479**
**-7,110**
**25,367**
285,386
105,170
390,556
365,190| ||**297,755**
**85,691 **
**383,446**
**390,556**| The statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All activities of the Charity are classed as continuing. The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 10 form part of these financial statements. Page 5 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Balance sheet As at 30th September 2024** |**Notes**
**Fixed Assets**
**4**
**Current Assets**
Debtors
**5**
Cash at bank & in hand
**Creditors - amounts due within one year**
**5**
**Net current assets/liabilities**
**Net assets**
**Fund represented by**
Unrestricted funds
Restricted funds
**Total**|**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
4,362
6,527
621
557
379,313
384,323| |---|---| ||379,935
384,879
-850
-850
379,085
384,029| ||**383,446**
**390,556**| ||297,755
285,386
85,691
105,170| ||**383,446**
**390,556**| The financial statements on pages 6 and 7 were approved by the Trustees and signed on their behalf by: Signed: Position: Trustee Date: 18th July 2025 The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 10 form part of these financial statements. Page 6 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **1 Accounting policies** ## **1.1 Basis of preparation** These accounts (financial statements) have been prepared under the historic cost convention, with items recognised at cost or transaction value, unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s), in accordance with: (a) The Charities Act 2011 - (b) Accounting & Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice (Charities SORP FRS102) (effective January 2015) The charity meets the definition of a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern. ## **1.2 Incoming resources** These are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA). Incoming resources are recognised when: - (a) The company becomes entitled to the resources - (b) The directors are virtually certain they will receive the resources; and - (c) The monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability Where incoming resources have related expenditure (as with fund-raising or contract income) the incoming resources and related expenditure are reported gross in the SoFA. Grants and donations are only included in the SoFA when the company has unconditional entitlement to the resources. Contractual income is only included in the SoFA once the related goods or performance related services have been delivered. Investment income is included in the accounts when receivable. ## **1.3 Expenditure** Expenditure is charged to the statement of financial activities on an accruals basis, inclusive of any VAT which cannot be recovered. Expenditure is classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to that category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred in the delivery of the charity’s activities and services for its beneficiaries, including both direct and support costs. Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting constitutional and statutory requirements, including Accountancy fees. ## **1.4 Fund accounting** Restricted funds are funds received from donors which are subject to restrictions on the purposes for which they may be used of which have been raised for a specific project. Unrestricted funds are those where there are no externally imposed restrictions. These include funds freely available to the charity for expenditure or appropriation to reserves for internally designated purposes. ## **1.5 Assets** Tangible assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and cost at least £500. They are valued at cost, or, if gifted, at the value to the company on receipt. The rates applicable are; Office equipment - 20% on cost Motor vehicles - 25% reducing ## **1.6 Taxes** The company is not VAT registered. As a Charity the company is exempt from taxation on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or s256 of the Taxation of chargeable gains Act section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or s256 of the Taxation of chargeable gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects. ## **1.7.** ## **Creditors** Creditors are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount, usually the invoice amount. Accrued charges are normally valued at their settlement amount. ## **1.8. Debtors** Debtors are recognised at the settlement amount due. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid. Page 7 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** |**2**
**Incoming resources:**
**Grants and donations**
Lunch Clubs
Enhance Funding
General grants
Home Energy Support
LCC - Adult Social Care
LCC - Mice
Leeds Benevolent Society - single ladies
Donations
**Investment income**
**3**
**Expenditure on:**
**Cost of raising funds**
Members costs
Instructor costs
Staff expenses
Volunteer expenses
Food supplies
Training
**Charitable activities**
Wages
Rent
Insurance
Telephone
Postage and stationery
Motor vehicles - depreciation
Computer equipment - depreciation
**Support costs**
Office costs
Transport
Professional fees|**General**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**Fund**
**Fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
0
3,551
3,551
11,144
0
41,028
41,028
41,055
6,989
0
6,989
0
0
0
0
4,484
0
124,221
124,221
124,221
0
600
600
0
0
20,000
20,000
21,000
12,287
12,598
24,885
31,857
19,276
201,997
221,273
233,761
11,570
0
11,570
10,547
**General**
**Restricted**
**Total**
**Total**
**Fund**
**Fund**
**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
168
258
425
19,558
0
200
200
950
716
5,048
5,764
5,506
16
620
637
2,143
258
15,212
15,470
11,835
0
1,523
1,523
138| |---|---| ||**1,158**
**22,861**
**24,019**
**40,130**| ||**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
9,024
173,575
182,599
151,321
2,530
5,461
7,991
7,819
0
1,000
1,000
398
58
322
380
1,149
0
631
631
2,128
0
1,454
1,454
1,939
711
0
711
711
2,507
9,458
11,965
8,061
2,489
5,037
7,526
3,740
0
1,676
1,676
1,545| ||**17,319**
**198,615**
**215,934**
**178,811**| Page 8 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **4 Tangible fixed assets** |**4**
**Tangible fixed assets**|**4**
**Tangible fixed assets**||| |---|---|---|---| |**Motor**
**Office**
**Total**
**Vehicles**
**equipment**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**Cost**
18,558
3,557
22,115
Additions
0
0
0
Disposals
0
0
0
At 30th September 2024
18,558
3,557
22,115
**Depreciation**
At 1st October 2023
12,742
2,846
15,587
Charge this period
1,454
711
2,165
At 30th September 2024
14,196
3,557
17,753
**Net book value at 30th September 2024**
**4,362**
**0**
**4,362**
**Net book value at 30th September 2023**
**5,816**
**711**
**6,528**
**5**
**Debtors and creditors**
**2024**
**2023**
**Debtors**
**£**
**£**
Trade debtors
621
557
**Creditors (amounts falling due in one year)**
**£**
**£**
Other creditors
-850
-850
**6**
**Trustees remuneration, benefits and expenses**
There were no trustees' remuneration in the period of these accounts.
**7**
**Movement of funds**
**Opening**
**Incoming**
**Expended**
**Closing**
**01.10.2023**
**resources**
**resources**
**30.09.2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**Unrestricted funds**
285,386
30,846
-18,477
297,755
**Restricted funds**
Hardship Fund
4,228
0
-436
3,792
Lunch Clubs
0
16,149
-15,753
396
LCC - Adult Social Care
80,237
124,221
-122,978
81,480
Leeds Benevolent Society - single ladies
20,705
20,000
-40,705
0
Enhance Funding
0
41,028
-41,028
0
LCC - Mice
0
600
-576
24
**390,556**
**232,843**
**-239,953**
**383,446**||**Motor**
**Vehicles**
**£**
18,558
0
0|**Office**
**Total**
**equipment**
**£**
**£**
3,557
22,115
0
0
0
0| |||18,558|3,557
22,115| |||12,742
1,454|2,846
15,587
711
2,165| |||14,196|3,557
17,753| ||||| |||**4,362**|**0**
**4,362**| ||||| |||**5,816**|**711**
**6,528**| ||||**2024**
**2023**
**£**
**£**
621
557| ||||**£**
**£**
-850
-850| ||**390,556**
**232,843**
**-239,953**
**383,446**||| Page 9 **SEACROFT FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS Notes to the financial statements for the period ended 30th September 2024** ## **7 Movement of funds (continued)** Leeds Benevolent Society for Single Ladies provide help to around 80 members around the city. The society have regular meetings, get-togethers and outings and offer financial help to qualifying people or groups which includes buying domestic items, grants towards holidays, paying phone bills, TV licences and providing someone to tour the various members’ homes ensuring they’re safe and sound. LCC Core grant -The LCC Adult Social Care provides core funding which are used to pay for salaries and overheads. This funding enables us to maintain a stable and consistent service and to plan ahead. Enhance Funding – Provides additional support to clients with the most complex health needs. LCC – Mice – Towards electrical equipment. Hardship fund – Provide support to members experiencing hardship. Lunch clubs - Subsidises the provision of Lunch Club ## **8 Previous periods figure** The previous periods figure are provided, where available, for comparison purposes only. Page 10