Refugee Roots (Registered charity. number 1184098) Financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2024 Page Contents Trustees, annual report Independent examiner's report Receipts & payments account Statement of assets & liabilities Notes to the accounts 10 12 13-15 capLUS LiifviMLJi415 i HLLOUN I ING
Refugee Roots Trustees, annual report for the year ended 30 June 2024 Full name Refugee Roots Organisation type Charitable incorporated organisation Registered charity number 1184098 Principal address Suite 53. Unit 6 Sneinton Market, Gedling Street, Nottingham NG1 1 DS Trustees TFOX R Madzvia G Parker R Rattigan, until 3110512024 Rev P Thipa H Whitton T Pickup Independent examiner John O'Brien, employee of Community Accounting Plus, Units 1 & 2, North West, 41 Talbot Street, Nottingham, NG15GL Governance and management The CIO aSSlatIon is operated under the rules of its constitution adopted 25 June 2019. Recruitment of trustees is from those with an existing interest and involvement in working with refugees and asylum seekers and in sympathy with the aims of Refugee Roots, with an inlention to maintain a balanced group of trustees, in terms of skills and experience, ethnicity, gender and age. Appointment Is by the exisling membership and trustees following an interview, references and safer recruitment measures such as DBS checks being met. Objectives and activities The objects of the CIO, which are to be carried out in accordance with Christian principles within the wider communities of Nottingham and the County of Nottinghamshire and the surrounding areas, are.. 1. The promotion of s(Kial inclusion for the public benefit among people who are asylum seekers and refugees who are SclaIlY excluded on the grounds of their s(Kial and economic position, in particular but not exclusively by.. al Providing volunteer befrienderslmentors who will assist asylum seekers and refugees with their integration into the community by providing activities, infonmation, advocacy services, advice and support; b) Relieving or preventing poverty among asylum seekers and refugees by providing grants of financial assistance, essential equipment, furniture and other items as may be necessary.,
Refugee Roots c) Providing asylum seekers and refugees with education and training in the English language; d} The provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure (cupatIon in the interests of social welfare with the object of improving the conditions of life f(x asylum seekers and refugees. 2. The promotion of equality and diversity for the public benefit by.. a) The elimination of discrimination on the grounds of race or religion- b) Advancing education and raising awareness in equality and diversity- c) Promoting activities to foster understanding between people from diverse backgrounds. d) Cultivating a sentiment in favour of equality and diversity. Public benefit statement The Trustees confirm that Ihey have complied with the duty in seGlion 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, 'Charities and Public Benefit,. Summary of the main activities undertaken for the public benefit Promoting social inclusion of newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers and understanding in swiety as a public benefit. 1. Providing volunteer befrienderslmentors who will assist participants with their integration into the community by providing activities, information, advocacy. advice and support. 2. Relieving or preventing poverty among participants by hdping them access or providing grants of financial assistance, essential equipment, clothing, furniture and other necessary items. 3. Providing participants with education and training in the English language. 4. Providing faGilities for recreation or other leisure activitie5 to promote the Sla1 well-being of participants. Advancing awareness of the issues facing refugees and asylum seekers among the wider public with a particular emphasis in churches, fostering understanding between people from diverse backgrounds and cultivating a sentiment in favour of equality with diversity. The Trustees confirm that they have complied with the duty in section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit, 'Charities and Public Benefit,.
Refugee Roots Summary of the main achievements during the period Refugee Roots welcomes all. helping those in need find friendship and a place to call home Refugee Roots helps asylum seekers and refugees build relationships and navigate the complexities of building a new life in the UK. We provide a range of activities in Nottingham and the surrounding area including befriending- providing information, advice and guidance,. as well as groups and activities, such as free English conversation classes. We have refreshed our Vision and Mission statements to., Our Vlsion A place to belong for those seeking refuge and proteclion to feel welcome and valued, finding support lo rebuild their lives with dignity. Our Mission We will create a family of networks. connections, people and friendships for refugees and asylum seekers. We have also made a fresh commitment to"Reshape refugee support where refugees take control and regain autonomy. as a response to our Vision Day in 2023 which was further considered al our Vision Day in 2024. Chairfs Report This year has been a busy one f()r Refugee Roots as we continue to provide a place to belong for those seeking refuge and protection. We are now well established at Clarendon Chambers, which is close lo Nottingham Trent University and on a public transport route. In addition to the main office, we have a private interview room and other rooms which can be used for group aclivilies. All of our w(xk and projects are only possible due to the determination, skill, and expertise of our staff, volunteers, and trustees, not forgetting the vital support of funders, l(xal churches and partner organisations. The Board of Trustees continues to meet regularly. We have been delighted lo welcome a new trustee to the board. with others in the process of joining. One trustee also stepped down. Training for trustees is ongoing and trustees work to their strengths to provide the best level of governance. As we reflect on the achievements of the past year, we also sel our sights on the future. Our commitment to providing refugees with a place lo belong remains sleadfasl.
I would like lo extend my deepest gratitude to our supporters, partners, and all those who have contributed to the work of the charity. Gill Parker, Chair of Trustees Director's Report It has been an extraordinary year, marked by growth, resilience, generosity and the shared commitment to extend a place to belong. offering friendship and hope to refugees and asylum seekers in Noltingham and the surrounding areas. This past year, we saw a signific in increase in demand for our services, with our participants rising from 749 in the previous financial year to 1.149 this year. This growth underscores the critical and urgent needs facing participants and highlights the vital role we play in working with those seeking refuge and protection to overcome the barriers they face. I want lo thank all of our donors and partners for your support and generosity. Your contributions have been instrumental in allowing us to respond swiftly to rising needs, and support those who need it M(t. To our staff, volunteers, and trustees, you are the heart of this organisation. Your dedication, empathy, and unwavering commitment have made each day brighter f¢x those we support. Your efforts continue lo inspire, creating a cnmUnitY where everyone feels they belong and where hope flourishes. Looking forward, we anticipate Ihat demand will continue to increase and expect that we will still have a significant role in refugee support in Noltingham and the surrounding areas. It is important to be aware of the increasingly difficult fundraising climate and we project that this will continue to be the case. Therefore, we are seeking to maximise our fundraising efforts by growing our Gorporate sponsorship, regular donations, and church partnerships to be able to sustain and develop our work according to the needs of participant5 and fulfil our charitable aims and objectives. Trust fundraising will still have a significant place in our activities, but we recognise the need to have a mixed income stream f(N greater sustainability and flexibility. Adam Baker, Charity Director
Refugee Roots Refugee Roots has seen a tremendous increase in its capacity and provision of services, with all those involved making it possible for the charity to respond to the increased demand and need for support. 1,149 participants have been supported across all of our projects and activities. The charity has seen increased demand f( support as needs have grown and the refugee population Iccally in the city and surrounding areas has also increased. Opportunities lo support Ukrainian refugees living with UK hosts or family have helped widen our network of support and partnership. A city centre Iccation for the Gharity has also been significant for the changing landscape of refugee populations in Nottingham and the surrounding areas. The use of temporary emergency accommodation for asylum seekers by the Home Office and various government schemes such as the Homes fcK Ukraine sGheme have made the charity's reach less ge(xJraphically focussed and far me spread out. It has been important for the charily in this period to develop new, innovative and cative solutions, partnerships and collaborations. Partnerships to deliver pr(4eGIs have been invaluable as they have enabled more provision and even greater benefit to participants. Lwal churches and organisations have played an important role in our service delivery model for projects like Access. Alongside the increased capacity to deliver these important and meaningful support initiatives we have seen an increase to our income which has enabled our work to keep up with the rapid growth and greater need. We continue to seek funds from trusts, foundations, local churches, corporate partners and fundraising activities. Despite increased costs of living we saw growth in our regular donors and online fundraising. Summary of projects and actlvities and achlevements One-to-one befriending Volunteer befrienders met participants weekly support with language leaming, accompanying them lo appointments, getting to know Ial travel links, finding new communities within the city and much more. 47 volunteers have supported 56 individuals across 313 sessions of befriending "l am grateful to you for your support and help, and the opportunity to learn the language and communicate in a new country." Participant
Refugee Roots Access Our Access project offers sCla1 and educational experiences for our participants. Participants can join in a range of aclivilies in a friendly and saf e space. Our English conversation groups help lo improve English language skills. Participants get to make new connections and make friends in a diverse community. 571 participants were supported across 309 sessions of Access. '1 feel less lonely when l am here." Participant Access: Women's Group Our weekly Women's Group which is part of the Access project has benefited 69 participants. 50 sessions brought diverse women together for language SLIpp, craft and social activities. "I became more confident through the group" Participant Access: Cooking and Eatlng Together Our monthly Cooking and Eating Tether group brought participants and volunteers tcgether to share food and friendship with 97 participants attending across 9 sessions. Access: Training and Workshops Training and Workshops offered through the Access projecl have benefiled 68 participants. Among the 31 sessions delivered this has included wellbeing sessions, yoga. employability and digital skills training and other relevant subjects. Participants have reported being able to use what they have learned and put into practice the skills gained from sessions SUGh as inteiview skills. Advice and Guidance Our Advice and Guidance project has supported 679 participants with more than 1620 sessions held. Support work has included= Finding legal support for asylum seekers Applying for housing Registering asylum seekers with a GP, dental surgery etc. Signposting and making referrals to essential services (housing, health, wellbeing, educalion, immigration and more) Meeting basic needs for food, clothing, shelter and furniture "Here I have got the support that I needed" Participant
Refugee Roots Universal Credit Advice in partnership with Always Community In partnership wilh Always Community our Universal Credit Advice project supported 212 participants. The sessions have empowered participants with the knowledge and skills required to access essential financial aid and support with the guidance of trained advisors. "I had a lot of difficulties and Refugee Roots helped me solve them very quickly." Participant Access Arts 145 participants have been engaged in 152 art sessions. Benefits have included reduced isolation, increased connectedness to the community and greater sense of belonging. Our Access Art's sessions offer an opportunity for participants lo explore art and creative activities in a relaxing and social setting. Our twice-a-week art sessions facilitated by artists have allowed our participants to explore mediums and techniques such as watercolour and acrylic painting, charcoal, clay, collage, textiles, marbling, felting, screen printing, mod rock, stained glass, poetry and drama. A number of exhibitions were held during Sherwood Art Week, Refugee Week and in March 2024. "Dolng art makes me feel happy and relaxed, and to make friends. It's good for mental health." Participant Overall outcomes reported by participants Participants have reported the following: 810/0 felt less isolated 85.10 felt more connected lo their communities 87 /0 felt more confident 85°h reported they had been helped 880/0 % reported the help they received made a difference in their lives 800/. % developed skills to reach their potential 78 % felt their English had improved Volunteering 154 volunteers have been involved in the charity. Volunteers from the I(al community, churches, colleges and universities have supported various projects and activities such as language support, befriending, activity support and much more. Volunteers Ihat Gare make the difference.
Refugee Roots The charity's poll¢y on resepies Trustees aim to keep three months of unrestricted funds in reserve. We review our reserves policy annually unless a review is required earlier. We do not have on- going liability fcf rent, hire of equipment etc. Financial review We are satisfied with our current financial position. We continue to seek funds from trusts and foundations, and we are working on diversifying our income sources to ensure we can Gonlinue our much-needed work, and develop the work appropriately to have the maximum benefit possible. We are seeking ccf porale partnerships and sponsorship from interested potential partners. We are also developing other fundraising initiatives and financial giving sources for a more sustainable future. This includes a campaign to raise larger amounts of funds from sources other than trusts and foundations. The charity's risks Failure of grant applications, donations or fund-raising activities. Sncreased costs and Ihe cost of living crisis are having an adverse effect on giving from the general public. We share with all charities major uncertainties about funding in the present financial climate. We have seen greater challenges raising funds from trusts and foundations due to the volume of applications and oversubscription. We have appropriate insurance for a charity. Signed on behalf of the charity's trustees.. Signed C Parker, Trustee
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Refugee Roots for the year ended 30 June 2024 I report to the trustees on my examinalion of the accounts of Refugee Roots (the charity) for the year ended 30 June 2024. Responsibilities and basis of report As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 20111'the Act,). I report in respect of my examination of the charity's accounts Caled out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under stIOn 14515llb) of the Act. Independent examiner's statement I have completed my examinatiors. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection wilh Ihe examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect: 1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act. or 2. the accounts do not accord with those records. I have no concerns and have Gome across no other matters in connection with the examinalion to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of Ihe accounts to be reached. Signed John O'Brien M FCIE Employee of Community Accounting Plus Date 11 10
Refugee Roots Receipts & payments account for the year ended 30 June 2024 2023 Total FuS 2024 Total Fund5 Unrestricted Restricted Fund$ Funds Notè Receipts Grants & donations Fundraising Sales Totsl receipts 219632 865 1736 136264 2 40813 171029 211842 4083 44896 4083 215925 171029 Payments Accounts, Bookkeeping and Payroll Activities and Events Consultancy Equipment, Repairs and Renewals Fee Charges Hardship Payments Hospitality and Refreshments Insurances 1182 1431 1369 9749 3300 476 2551 11180 3300 2849 61 2349 4479 101 5438 2459 2948 720 3829 11898 1015 5543 148597 2980 16223 8544 9539 178 5615 8952 517 1913 2373 58 194 544 2155 3935 101 3549 889 2948 132 3829 10664 1015 4573 127829 1576 1889 1570 Legal and Professional Marketing Memberships and Subscriptions Printing, Postage and Stationery Rent Resource and Guidance Material Room Hire Salaries, Nl and Pension Staff Training and Welfare Telephone Travel and Accommodation Volunteer Costs Total payments 3949 887 4189 10400 1291 10830 106302 1294 2662 2442 7157 202884 588 1234 970 20768 1404 866 1003 36074 907 5089 185532 1773 6092 221606 19348 94050 Net receiptsllpaymentsl Cash funds at start of this period Transfers between funds Cash funds at end of this period 8822 56145 2738 62229 1145031 57253 2738 45487 156811 113398 113398 107717
Refugee Roots Statsment of assets and liabilities at 30 June 2024 2023 2024 Cash assets Bank accounts Cash in hand 113398 107667 50 107717 113398 Assets retained for the charity's own use GerEral equipment. Laptops purchased June 2020 at a cost of £1850 Tablet purchased May 2021 at a cost of £729 Laptops purchased June 2021 at a cost of £2700 Laptop purchased Jan 2022 at a cost of £876 Cabinet purchased June 2023 at a cost of £516 Printer purchased June 2023 at a cost of £1554 Total 8225 Debtors HMRC (Employment allowance for 2 years) 5000 5000 10000 10000 Liabilities:creditors HMRC Pensions Payroll Ca Plus Independent examination (2482) (161) (2394) (263) 678 3335 612 (32551 These financial statements are accepted on behalf of the charity by- Signed T Pickup T Pickup, Trustee Dated 09.03.2025 12
Refugee Roots Notes to the accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 1. Receipts & payments accounts Receipts and payments accounts contain a summary of money received and money spent during the period and a list of assets and liabilities at the end of the pericml. Usually, cash received and cash spent will include transactions through bank accounts and cash in hand. 2. Grants & donations Unrestrl¢t•d Restrictsd Total Donations Church Dorkgtions Diocese OfsoLrtell & NottirwJham The National Lottery Community Fund Peoples Heath Lottery Bags of Help Communities of klentity TrnaS Farr National Grid Electricity Distribution Garfield Weston NottirKJham City Council JN Dert)yshire Arts Courtil Lady HITr 11762 11534 15000 11762 11702 15000 119964 2517 500 3360 3000 4557 20000 10000 3000 2980 3500 211842 168 119964 2517 500 3360 3000 4557 20000 10000 3000 2980 3500 173546 38296 13
Refugee Roots 3. Funds analysis Opening balance Rèc•ipts (Paymènts) Tranthrs clong balance Restricted funds Access BefiieThJing Community Matters Welcome & htegration VCS Hardship RC MidlarKIs Region (NLCFI Access Arts Ukraine swport A Place to BelorKJ Afghan FUNI Community Organisations Cost of LiMrG FurKI Admin Core Admce and guidance 28462 9516 10360 61 4557 10000 1319341 147231 145571 {26671 {541 (93110) 111625) 13541 } 13431) 6888 6415 1561 7333 54 93110 2980 12186 3431 20000 20000 26854 (268541 (27381 2738 3107 3846 1980 171029 2738 185539 3604 57253 4845 45481 Unrestritted funds General 56145 56145 44896 36080 2738 L 62223 36080 44896 62223 2738 'A place to belong. is a core fund. The partner was "Garfield Weston Foundation" {ends Feb 2025). 'Access" is a restricted fund for the Access prqect offering free Conversational English classes, workshops and s¢xial activities such as Cooking & Eating Together,. it also includes our Women's Group. Funders of the Access project include.. Thomas Farr lends Sep 20241, Albert Hunt Trust (ended Jan 2024), Boots Charitable Trust (ended Mar 2024). Communities of Identity (ended Mar 2024), Lady Hind (ends August 2024), Tesco Bags of Help lends August 2024) and others. "Advice and Guidance" is our Advice and Guidance provision. Funders included JN Derbyshire (Mar 2024). 'Admin Core. is a core fund for the Admin Assistant's salary, the funder is Hilden Charitable Trust awarded £7000 for one year {ended Sep 2023). 'Access Arts. is our Art project which is part of the programme "National Lottery Project Grants" The funder is Arts Council England National Lottery (ended Mar 2024}. 14
Refugee Roots 'Befriending' is for the befriending project. Volunteer5 provide weekly support one to one with refugees and asylum seekers. Funders have included Albert Hunt Trust (ended Jan 2024), and others. "Community Cost of Living Fund.. The fund was to cover the retrospective costs of running existing critical services and for delivering, expanding and adapting existing services. The funding came from the UK Govemment and was managed by the National Lottery Community Fund (ended Mar 20241. 'Community Matters Fund" refers to a grant which was awarded by National Grid Electricity Distribution via LoGal Giving for operating a "Warm Bank. (ended Mar 2024). 'Hardship' refers to hardship grants and provisions. Funders and partners have included Acts 435 and others. "RC Midlands Region. is the programme funded by the Nats'onal Lottery Community Fund {3-year award, ends July 2025). The Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham provide a core grant towards the Charity Director's salary (ended Jan 2024). Refugee Roots is grateful for a grant of £25,000 towards core costs, awarded by the Postcixle Places Trust thanks to players of the People's Postcode Lottery (ended June 2024). 'Welcome & Integration VCS. is the Asylum Seeker Dispersal grant prcgramme from central government and funds our work to address isolation and empower asylum seekers (ends Jan 2025). 4. Trustees, remuneratlon Trustees received no expenses, remuneration or benefits in this period. 5. Glossary of terms Creditors- These are amounts owed by the charity, but not paid during the accounting period. Restrlcted funds: These are funds given to the charity, subject to specific restrictions set by the donor, but still within the general objects of the charity. Debtors: These are amounts owed to the charity. but not received in the accounting period. 15