STAND Byffle Annual Report & Accounts 2024 ## _**Stand by Me**_ **’s mission is to** ## **rescue kids from terrible circumstances.** **Then do whatever it takes to provide the care, love and attention they need to thrive.** ## **A message from the director** I am delighted to share with you our latest Annual Report and Accounts, celebrating all that God has accomplished through _Stand by Me_ in 2024. Within these pages you will find remarkable stories of transformation from children around the world, stories made possible only through your generous support. One of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the opportunity of a quality education, which enables them to overcome immense challenges and realise the potential God has placed within them. This year we were thrilled to see four kindergarten classrooms in Ethiopia transformed with new resources and to equip Abdi Academy with a new IT lab. From the youngest kindergartener joining our _Stand by Me_ family to university students pursuing their degrees, your support is opening doors to life-changing opportunities that will shape their futures. We are continually humbled and inspired by the compassion of our staff as they serve with dedication, often in the most difficult circumstances. In Myanmar, despite civil war and food insecurity, our teams have reached out to some of the most vulnerable families. This year, our GCEC and Lois Schools became true beacons of hope, opening their doors to refugee children and providing them with education, daily food, safety and the assurance of love. We once expanded these schools to reach more children, but God had an even greater purpose: to create a refuge for those who had lost their homes and communities. I am deeply thankful for God’s faithfulness and provision, and for your commitment which enabled us to raise revenues of over £3 million in 2024. As we face the ongoing challenges of conflict in Myanmar and the global rise in living costs, I am encouraged by your steadfast support. Because of your generosity, thousands of children are experiencing care, hope and the love of God. ## **Ahmad Ayoubi** Chief Executive Director **2** **3** ## **Helping children become** ## **everything they are born to be** Each child is unique so we take care to meet each of their individual needs, from food and healthcare, to loving parents and a quality education. We’re motivated by Jesus’ example to make a lasting difference in our children’s lives by tackling each and every obstacle they face. ## **Our child-centred care** ## **Loving care** We get to know each child and invest our time raising them to know that they’re loved and accepted for who they are. ## **Strong families** We work hard to keep families together. In the absence of a stable family, we welcome children into our loving family homes. ## **Great education** Our education programmes equip our kids to rise above their circumstances and help change their communities. ## **Access to healthcare** We go the extra mile to make sure that our kids are fit and well, and can enjoy their childhood. ## **A reason for hope** It’s a privilege to demonstrate Jesus’ love to our kids through the quality of our care. ## **Caring relationships** Child sponsorship helps our kids to feel loved, cared for and part of a wider family. ## **Our care programmes** Each child is unique but like all children they need unconditional love and acceptance. Because they come from complex backgrounds, we have developed four key care programmes to meet their individual needs. **Family Support** support, medical care and small stand on their own two feet. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Care Centres
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## **Children's Homes** Our care centres provide tutoring, meals, clothes, medical care and counselling for children and their families who need extra care. Our children’s homes are just like any family home should be – comfortable, safe and filled with love. We provide families with food, rent support, medical care and small business grants to enable them to stand on their own two feet. ## **Schools** Our schools provide a quality education, equipping children to rise above their circumstances and do great things. _Bethany School, Ethiopia._ **4** **5** ## **Caring for over 3,800 kids worldwide** **Colombia** Providing care and psychological support to children overwhelmed by abuse, family breakups, neglect and poverty. ## **Dominican Republic** Educating children facing poverty, high unemployment and poor educational opportunities. Providing a loving home for orphaned and at risk children. **Romania** Supporting children and their families living in deep poverty in the community through the provision of a free education, daily food and family support. Caring for girls rescued from neglect. ## **Ethiopia** Providing an education to children living in poverty, a loving family for orphaned children and extensive healthcare for children and their family members. Offering a programme for those living with HIV and selfsufficiency projects for families. **Kenya** Giving orphaned and abandoned children loving care in our family homes. Providing a quality education to children trapped in poverty and offering community support, skills training and sustainability programmes. **India** Providing loving care and an education to children rescued from a life of civil unrest, violence and child trafficking. **Myanmar** Offering a loving family home to orphaned children from persecuted minorities and providing an education for children in our schools so that they can rise above their difficult circumstances. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Romania
Myanmar
Dominican Republic
Ethiopia India
Colombia
Kenya
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**6** **7** ## **Our impact** Colombia ## **A safe environment to be a child** **Growing up in a forgotten town surrounded by dense banana plantation, our kids in Colombia come from terrible backgrounds.** Alongside the challenges of living in poverty, many children lack love and care at home and contend with the emotional and psychological effects of neglect and abuse. But despite the heartbreaking challenges, we see hope. Our Emmanuel Care Centre is a hub exploding with colour, full of laughter and run by committed staff who provide children with the daily support, food, education and counselling they need. Knowing what they experience at home, we believe it is incredibly important that children like Shayra have a safe haven where they can be a child and experience hope. 12-year-old **Shayra** lives with her mum and younger brother. Each day, she wakes up in her small house and helps her mum with the chores, like sweeping, cleaning dishes and walking to the river to wash her clothes. At the centre she receives additional educational support from her dedicated teachers and has access to clean water, nutritious meals and, if needed, the support of a psychologist to help her through life’s toughest times. Shayra loves attending the centre where she laughs and plays with her friends, knowing she is loved and special. Thanks to this life-changing support, Shayra dreams for the future and hopes to one day study psychology at university. The dedication of our incredible staff is transforming lives and this year we welcomed 30 grade 1 children into the centre. The excited five and six-yearolds are now receiving loving care and experiencing a safe environment to enjoy their childhood, just like Shayra. **8** Ethiopia Kenya ## **The best start to education** School and Abdi Academy to understand how to best use these wonderful resources. Together, they discovered the value of play-based learning and focused on how the new resources would support children’s learning in numeracy, literacy, imaginative role play, construction and outdoor play. This year at our Bethany School and Abdi Academy in Ethiopia, we watched the excitement build as our youngest kids lined up outside waiting to see the **incredible transformation of their classrooms.** For the last couple of years, _Stand by Me_ has worked with a small team of teachers from Northern Ireland, alongside our Ethiopian staff, to provide better resources for our kindergarten students. These resources will impact the education of our youngest kids for generations to come. It's thanks to the generosity of our incredible supporters, the skills of the fantastic teaching team and the determination of our Bethany School and Abdi Academy teachers that our children in Ethiopia will now have the best possible start to their education and a foundation from which we hope they will continue to flourish and reach their potential. There was a smile on every child’s face as they explored their new classrooms. The team of teachers delivered five days of training, helping our nine staff members from Bethany ## **Restoring hope for children and their families** When **Darius** was only eight years old, his mother passed away. Since then, **Selina** , his grandmother, has been caring for him and his brother. Selina’s age made it difficult to provide for them and there were many days when the family went without food. Three years ago, we welcomed Darius into our Open Arms Academy where he now gets an education and all his needs are taken care of: breakfast and lunch, a smart school uniform, comfortable school shoes and healthcare. Darius enjoys his lessons and has discovered his talent in the school’s new workshop, opened this year to provide technical and vocational skills to children. Selina is overjoyed that Darius is now receiving these opportunities. _**“It is thanks to Open Arms Academy that Darius has food, he gets fruit and has a balanced diet. That was my biggest worry. I couldn’t feed my grandson well. I have also seen that he has a talent in sculpting and making things using his hands. He is very happy these days. He smiles more and I had missed seeing that since his mother died.”**_ Selina is also finding hope through the SILC (Savings and Internal Lending Communities) programme which is helping her find financial stability and dream of a better future for her grandson. _**“My dream is to see my grandson own his own house and be successful in his life. I want a better life for him than what I have. The SILC training has helped me a lot. I was quite hopeless but it has given me a new lease of hope."**_ The impact of our work in Kenya is providing children like Darius with the opportunity to learn and empowering parents and grandparents like Selina to improve their lives and find renewed hope. **10** ## Myanmar ## **Rescuing children into our schools** Myanmar continues to be ravaged by war. In the north, where fighting is fierce, villages have been burned down and families have been devastated by loss, many have had to flee to nearby towns or cities for refuge. Not only are our staff diligently doing all they can to protect our children, but they are also welcoming children who have lost everything into our homes and schools. At our Lois School, the classrooms were temporarily opened to provide a place to sleep for children and families who had fled from their burned villages and urgently needed shelter. When summer school began, the same children were welcomed to come along and enjoy free education, activities and lunch each day. As the children had fun taking part in painting, learning English and playing in the playground, they were able to feel safe. Knowing these children wouldn’t otherwise be able to receive an education, our Lois School made room for them to join the school. As a result, **this academic year started with over 1,000 students, more than 70 of them children who had fled their villages due to the war.** The classrooms are full and fit to burst but our wonderful teachers are helping to bear the children's fear and help them know they are loved, cared for and have a hope for the future. _**“I thank Stand by Me for providing this school building that we could not only educate many needy children but also could provide shelter to people in need. I would like to thank all the sponsors, supporters for your faithful support and generosity, because of your gift many of the people found safety, refuge, hope, education, love and know the love of God.”**_ **Ciang, Lois School Headteacher.** ## Romania ## **25 years of caring for children -** ## **Cami, Romania Director** On June 1st, we celebrated a momentous milestone: 25 years since the inception of our child-focused initiatives in Romania. This quarter-century has been filled with profound meaning, hard work and numerous challenges. One of the most remarkable aspects of this journey has been witnessing the diverse gifts each person has brought to our mission. From the volunteers who physically work alongside us, bringing their compassion and energy, to those who provide their expertise in education, healthcare and counselling, every individual's unique contribution has been invaluable. We have been blessed with talented caregivers, teachers and psychologists who have nurtured the children’s minds, helping them achieve academic success and inspiring a love of learning. Our healthcare professionals have ensured the children remain healthy and strong, addressing both their physical and emotional needs with dedication and care. Moreover, there are the countless supporters and sponsors who, throughout the years, have helped from afar in many ways, contributing their financial support, providing spiritual support through their prayers or offering emotional support through heartfelt messages of encouragement, lifting the spirits of both the children and our staff during challenging times. As we mark this 25th anniversary, we are deeply aware of the importance of all these individuals, whether well-known to us or not. Each person’s unique gifts and contributions have woven a rich tapestry of support that has sustained us. **We wish to extend our heartfelt tribute and gratitude to everyone who has become part of the larger** _**Stand by Me**_ **family here in Romania.** Myanmar Ethiopia ## **Excelling in talents through adversity** The children arrived at the competition both nervous and full of excitement. They had spent a month preparing to perform, giving up their Saturdays to diligently practice together, and it was now their chance to show off what they had been training for. They would be competing against 50 other children from the region in front of an audience of over 350 people. Last year our Agape Home family had been forced to leave their home due to extreme flooding. But now having returned to the home, rising conflicts in Myanmar have continued to disrupt normal life. The uncertainty of the future, however, has not stopped our children from doing what they love.The children at the home have been pursuing their hobbies by dancing together, an activity that has been a light amidst dark times. The dancers were awarded third place in the competition, an achievement both the children and the staff were incredibly proud of. After their first performance the Agape Home went on to participate in further competitions, with even more children joining in. _**“We are overjoyed to pursue our passion for dancing, and we hope for more opportunities in the future. Your prayers mean the world to us and we’re thrilled to be doing what we love”**_ said 16-year-old **Ngua** , also known as ‘dancer’ amongst his peers. He was one of the seven children at our Agape Home who participated in a regional dance competition. The competitions have given the children a deeper passion for dancing which has brought them closer together. In the midst of the civil war in Myanmar, the chance for our children to pursue their passions provides a small relief and brings them much joy. **----- Start of picture text -----**
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## **A second chance at success** Six students in our Bethany Project passed their university remedial programme exam and are now continuing their education at university. The university remedial programme includes extra study and additional courses, giving students who narrowly miss the university pass marks another opportunity to join university. Having succeeded in these recent exams **Ashenafi, Elshaddai, Elias, Serkalem, Danie** l and **Tadesse** now have a second chance to pursue their dreams. 22-year-old **Ashenafi** was one of the highest achieving students all throughout his education, even passing his Grade 8 exams top of the class. He had been welcomed into our Bethany Project in 2008, his mother’s single wage as a labourer barely covering the family’s basic needs and not enough to send him to school. Ashenafi had worked hard all throughout his primary and high school education but when the university entrance exam came along he struggled: _**“My entrance exam result and my class performance were vastly different. I was among the top students in class, and my university entrance result was unexpected. Thanks to the remedial programme, I could work to my full potential and now expect a brighter future ahead."**_ The six will start their freshman year and are aspiring high: **Daniel wants to study Law, Elshaddai and Serkalem are considering pursuing Management and Ashenafi and Tadesse hope to study Computer Science. Elias wants to pursue psychiatry, a career path that very few in Ethiopia choose.** The amazing achievement not only shows what our kids are capable of, but also that in the small, poor town where our Bethany Project stands, second chances are never wasted. **How we did it** Everything we are able to achieve is thanks to our amazing supporters and sponsors who share their skills, resources, finances and time to change the lives of some of the most vulnerable children worldwide. _Lunch time at Bethany School, Ethiopia._ _**Emmanuel Care Centre, Colombia.**_ **16** ## **Child Sponsorship** We are grateful that this year a further 343 people provided a child with an extended family by becoming a sponsor. We are thankful for all our wonderful child sponsors who have made our children feel so loved, **sending a total of 4,130 emails,1,001 letters and monetary gifts totalling £75,392 to their sponsored children.** Child Sponsorship is a fantastic way to impact a child’s life. It’s so much more than a monthly donation providing for a child’s food, clothes, medical care and education; it means a child feels loved, cared for and part of a family. The commitment and encouragement means the world to our children, a sentiment expressed so well by Than who recently wrote to his sponsor Pete: _**“I hope you are doing well. As I prepare to leave Agape Home and begin a new journey, I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude for everything you have done for me. Your kindness, generosity and prayers have meant so much to me, and I will always cherish the way you have supported me throughout these years.**_ ## **Appeals** Our appeals allow us to respond to our children’s urgent needs. Our Colombia Appeal raised an incredible **£76,334.14** enabling us to provide essential psychologist support for children facing trauma, neglect and abuse at the safe haven of our **Emmanuel Care Centre** . On behalf of all the staff, Bibiana, our Colombia Director, shared the impact of this generosity: _**"Through interventions in both individual sessions and group workshops, a safe space is provided and children and young people are taught strategies to resolve conflicts peacefully, the importance of communication and about the issue of sexual abuse. Families are more prepared to create healthy and safe environments, reducing the risk of emotional problems such as depression and promoting lasting wellbeing free of violence for their children.”**_ **Bibiana, Colombia Director** _**You have been more than just a sponsor and you have been a blessing and a guiding light in my life. Your encouragement and care have given me strength and hope and I am truly thankful for the love you have shown me. Through your support, I have been able to grow, learn and become the person I am today.**_ _**Thank you for believing in me, for walking alongside me in this journey and for being a part of my life in such a meaningful way.**_ _**With heartfelt gratitude and love"**_ **Than** This year, our **Christmas Appeal** raised funds to Keep Families Together raising an amazing **£41,803.37** which enabled us to provide **234 families** the security and support they needed to stay together over Christmas and to start the year. These donations meant that children could focus on their education instead of dangerous work and parents could access vital medical care, helping entire families like Chaltu’s look forward to a future filled with dignity and hope. _**"I was working as a cook in someone’s house to support my children, but when I suddenly became ill and needed surgery I could no longer afford to pay the rent. I was terrified that we would become homeless and be forced to live on the streets. However, as soon as I received the ‘Keeping Families Together’ support, I felt a breath of hope for myself and my children. The support has given us stability and the chance to rebuild our lives. I am deeply grateful to the Stand by Me project which saved us from homelessness and restored my hope, allowing me to live and appreciate life once again."**_ 14-year-old Chaltu (below left) attends our Bethany School in Ethiopia where she receives an excellent education, daily food and healthcare. Her mother is raising a large family on her own and has faced many challenges in providing for her children. She shared how the keeping families together support has transformed their lives: **----- Start of picture text -----**
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2024-2025
CATALOGUE
GIFT
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**Greatest Need donations** **Unrestricted giving** allows us to meet the needs of children and communities around the world as and when they arise. We value every donation from the smallest to the largest and pride ourselves on thanking and updating our amazing supporters regularly, ensuring they know exactly where their money is used and how it is making a difference to our children. _India Agape Home._ **----- Start of picture text -----**
Gifts
that make a
world of
difference
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## **Alternative Gifts** Our **Alternative Gift Catalogue** raised a fantastic **£33,923.91** from our supporters who purchased school uniforms, books, medical care, food packs, underwear, toys and other daily necessities and treats to help our children fulfil their potential. **21** ## **Fundraising** Amazing fundraisers take on ambitious challenges to raise money for our children around the world. Whether they are running a marathon or sleeping on the floor, their motivation to make a difference is inspiring and raises essential funds to support our kids. This year our annual February on the Floor fundraising event raised **£72,769.86** to help **1,517** children around the world pursue their dreams. The impact has been felt by our kids around the world as they have received new uniforms, enjoyed their daily breakfasts and families, like Deiner’s in Colombia, have received the wonderful gift of a bed. Deiner used to have to share one bed with his siblings, but thanks to February on the Floor, he received a new bed so they all each have room to get the rest they need. ## **Legacy and in memoriam gifts** Our children are unlikely to ever be included in anyone’s inheritance, so legacy and in memoriam gifts left to _Stand by Me_ mean so much and allow us to continue to make lasting and far reaching improvements in children’s lives. ## **Spreading the word** We spoke in schools and churches throughout the year. New speaking opportunities and our existing relationships with schools, churches, clubs and youth groups resulted in more children being sponsored as well as one-off donations impacting children’s lives. ## **Trusts** We would like to thank the Charitable Trusts who have together contributed to our projects this year and without whom we would not be able to complete essential projects. **22** _Deiner and his siblings on their new bed, Colombia._ **23** ## **Message from the Chair of the Board of Trustees** Whilst I only had the privilege to join the _Stand by Me_ Board during 2024 and became Chairman recently I have, over the years of my involvement, been delighted to see a shining example of faith being demonstrated in practice. I have been greatly encouraged by God’s provision and the collective resolve and dedication of our staff, both in the UK and overseas. The stories and successes contained within this report are just a few examples of what has been accomplished during 2024 but I would like to highlight the strong emphasis that is placed on encouraging stable family life and supporting individual child development. Above all we strive to provide a safe, nurturing and Christian setting within which children can grow, contribute to their communities, and, as they progress through our schools, graduate and make a meaningful impact at all levels of society. None of this would be possible without the ongoing support of our donors and volunteers. The Board, staff, children and families that we serve, extend heartfelt thanks to each of you for your generosity and willingness to share in our mission. We are acutely aware that we are stewards of your gifts and we continue to pray for God’s guidance to ensure these resources are managed wisely and with integrity. On behalf of the Board I also wish to express our sincere thanks to Ahmad for his dedicated leadership, and to all our overseas and UK staff for their commitment to the work of _Stand by Me_ . Looking ahead, the needs within our communities continue to evolve, and so must our response and with this in mind I hope you are encouraged by the content of this report and continue with us in our journey of investing in the lives of those we serve. **Gordon Haynes** Chair of the Board of Trustees _Open Arms Academy, Kenya._ **25** ## **Financial Summary** Charity is a tool that we use to meet the needs of children. But we’re not here just to run a charity, we’re here to change the lives of the children in our care, then to reach out and rescue more. When we spend money, it’s because it’s the best way to make a difference in our kids’ lives. Our trusted staff use money wisely to provide the best care possible for our children and through our annual budgets, audits and frequent monitoring visits, we make sure that the money is spent prudently. Other income **----- Start of picture text -----**
Other income
Reclaimed
£41,562
Gift Aid Team income
1%
£91,269
£378,339
Income 2024 3%
12%
We are incredibly grateful to
everyone who has supported our
work over the past year enabling
us to raise £3,047,772. Other
donation s
£746,15 4 Sponsorship
25% (committed giving)
£1,367,055
45%
Response
to appeals
Legacy/in memoriam
£275,706 donations
9%
£147,687
5%
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Costs of raising income
£104,783
3%
Expenditure 2024
Governance
Total expenditure in the year was £6,338
£3,014,959. 1%
96% of expenditure was spent
of charitable activities with
fundraising and governance
costing just 4%.
Charitable activities
£2,903,838
96%
What we spent directly on our projects in 2024
Ethiopia £969,933
Colombia £478,228
Myanmar £345,681
Kenya £237,587
Romania £116,856
Dominican
£59,003
Republic
India £18,921 Total direct spending
on projects
Other £89,276
Total: £2,315,485
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**27** **26** ## **Looking forward** **As we celebrate all we have achieved over 2024, we also look forward to all we hope to achieve in 2025, continuing to rescue children from terrible circumstances and doing all we can to provide them with nutritious food, essential healthcare, family support and a life-changing education. Here are our main aims for transforming children’s lives in 2025.** ## **Education** To provide a safe and supportive place for our high school students to study in Ethiopia, we will equip and open our High School Centre to ensure our older children can transition well and safely into independence and be in the best position to thrive as an adult and reach their potential. ## **Quality Care** Last year, our Agape Home in Myanmar was flooded and our 37 children were forced to evacuate by canoe. Although the family was able to return home, monsoon rains become more severe and the home is at risk of flooding again. Next year, we will launch an appeal to raise funds to build our Agape Home children a new floodproof home, ensuring they are comfortable, secure and protected from the elements. _Stand by Me_ is dedicated to furthering our commitment to the highest standards of care for the children we look after. A significant area of focus will be the continued development of our child safeguarding protocols and practices. We recognise the paramount importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of every child in our care and, as such, we will be conducting thorough audits of our current safeguarding procedures to identify area for improvement and enhancement. Alongside this we are dedicated to providing ongoing training and development opportunities for our overseas staff, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold our safeguarding standards. Over the course of this 18-month development project, we will be implementing necessary changes at our projects to strengthen our safeguarding framework. ## **Celebrating milestones** After working closely with Open Arms International in the USA, they will become _Stand by Me USA_ at the beginning of 2025, enabling our work and the stories of our children to be shared in the USA in the hope of providing opportunities for many more people to support _Stand by Me_ . To celebrate _Stand by Me_ ’s 30th anniversary we will host special 30th celebration events in Northern Ireland and Essex. This will be an opportunity to reflect on our journey so far, thanking supporters for the role they have played, inspiring our audience with our vision for the future and, most importantly, thanking God for his faithfulness, miracles and provision. _Emmanuel Care Centre, Colombia._ **28** **29** ## **Structure, governance and management** ## **Registered Charity** _Stand by Me_ is a registered charity in England and Wales. The charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Its governing document is a Constitution dated 2nd September 2019. The charity is governed by a Board of Trustees which is responsible for approving strategic decisions having taken advice from the Executive team. ## **Going concern** After appropriate research, the Trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue to operate for the foreseeable future. For this reason, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the financial statements.. ## **Method of appointment & training of Trustees** New Trustees are appointed by the Board and approved at a meeting of the Trustees. _Stand by Me_ Trustees are expected to be pro-active in supporting the work of the charity. Trustee recruitment is achieved through a blend of professional associations, local networks and prospective members being individually identified and approached. A periodic review of existing skills and expertise is undertaken and an assessment made as to what is required to meet the strategic needs of the charity. This shapes the recruitment and selection of prospective Trustees along with evidence of their motivation and support for the vision and mission of the charity. **Remuneration policy** Pay and remuneration of the Chief Executive Officer is set by the Board of Trustees and reviewed annually. Terms and benefits are set with reference to average pay in the sector and competencies required of the role. Remuneration for the Leadership Team is set by the Chief Executive Officer, with the agreement from the Board of Trustees. ## **Public benefit** The Trustees have considered the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit and continue to be satisfied the charity is acting in the public benefit, as stated in our objectives, and believe this report contains the explanation of the significant activities undertaken during the year which confirms this. ## **Reserves** The Board of Trustees considers the key measure of sustainability for _Stand by Me_ to be current and future liquidity cover, rather than the surplus or deficit accounting position. Consequently Trustees have set an appropriate reserves policy which is reviewed annually relating to liquidity, based on the relationship between readily realisable assets and the cash required to meet agreed obligations to ministries overseas in respect of monies that cover their regular support outgoings. Reserves are also required to sustain the charity’s operations in England and Northern Ireland. _Sophia Academy, Myanmar._ **30** **31** Trustees have decided that _Stand by Me_ should at all times maintain cash and readily realisable assets, being regarded as restricted funds, sufficient to fund between not less than 3 and not more than 12 months of budgeted regular support outgoings in relation to overseas ministries. At 31 December 2024 that liquidity cover stands at **7.9 months.** Alongside this, Trustees have also decided that, at all times, cash and realisable assets should be maintained to finance a minimum of 3 months and not more than 12 months of budgeted operating costs. At 31 December 2024 that liquidity cover stands at **3.4 months.** This Reserves Policy, which was agreed by Trustees at a meeting on 26 April 2023, updates and refines the earlier policy by linking solvency awareness in relation to funds for ministries overseas very specifically to monitoring liquidity cover for regular support outgoings. Also the assessment of solvency has been standardised as not less than 3 months and not more than 12 months for both restricted and unrestricted funds. ## **Restricted funds** Restricted funds are funds subject to specific conditions imposed by donors. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund in accordance with the Reserves Policy set by the Trustees. _Stand by Me_ aims to hold sufficient balances in all funds to cover 25 – 100% of budgeted regular support outgoings, plus any donations previously received for specific projects scheduled to take place in the subsequent years. At the end of the period total restricted funds were £1.02m (at 31 December 2023 £1.04m) all of which is earmarked for agreed regular support payments and specific projects. For each fund, _Stand by Me_ ’s assets are available and adequate to fulfil its obligations. **Investment Policy and Performance** The Trustees have the power to invest in such assets as they see fit. Our objective is to maintain high liquidity while ensuring maximum security. To achieve this _Stand by Me_ invests with institutions with a high security rating in fixed-term or call deposits. During the year _Stand by Me_ 's sterling deposits achieved an average rate of interest of 3.6% (2023: 2.9%) compared with average bank base rate for the same period of 5.11% (2023: 4.68%). **Risk management** The Trustees have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those related to the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied that systems and procedures are in place to mitigate our exposure to the major risks. Principal risks considered can be categorised as follows: - Financial risks – potential reduction in the level of public voluntary donations leading to inadequate reserves. - External risks – (a) poor public perception, albeit that Trustees consider this to be an extremely low risk, with consequent damage to the charity’s reputation and (b) turbulent economic or political environment. - Safeguarding risks – failure to adequately protect our beneficiaries and staff around the world. There are four basic strategies that can be applied to manage an identified risk: - Transferring the financial consequences to third parties, or sharing it, usually through insurance or outsourcing; - Avoiding completely the activity giving rise to the risk, for example by not taking up a contract or stopping a particular activity or service; - Management or mitigation of risk; - Accepting or assessing it as a risk that cannot be avoided if the activity is to continue i.e. where the Trustees recognise that a core activity carries a risk but take steps to mitigate it. Our reputation as a world class child care organisation is intertwined with our most important concern and the area we constantly monitor i.e. the protection of our children. Our comprehensive Child Care Policy and Safeguarding Policy are our global standards for all the charity’s projects which includes policies common to all our work around the world, is how we manage this risk. Also each member of staff is given our Staff Handbook which has, as its first section, the highest standards of behaviour expected in all dealings with children and fellow members of staff. Another key strategic risk identified was our additional funding needs. This is due to the fluctuation of sterling in political and economic uncertainty, combined with meeting the costs of the increasing number of our children attending further education. To mitigate this, we will maximise our key strengths and look to diversify our fundraising portfolio. ## **Overseas monitoring** Our Overseas Development Team regularly visit the projects and work with our in-country boards as they report against objectives and abide by policies set out for each of our homes, care centres and schools. _Denisa Care Centre, Romania._ **32** **33** Each country we work in has at least one director who is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day work taking place and they have regular meetings with the Chief Executive Director to discuss how the projects are progressing and any current issues that need addressing. On an individual child level, we monitor the progress of every child, physically, emotionally and academically throughout the year to meet any needs as they arise and ensure they are able to do well. By having teams visit regularly, many with professional members such as doctors, dentists and teachers, we encourage them to provide professional reports to aid our work as we seek to improve our effectiveness, efficiency and awareness of future challenges. ## **Organisational structure & decision making** The Board of Trustees meets every two months, subject to travel commitments, and is responsible for the overall strategic direction and policy of the charity. The Chief Executive Director has delegated responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and management of the charity, implementing strategy and providing overall leadership to ensure that the core values of the charity are maintained. The Board has reserved to itself certain important decisions including changes to the charity’s governing document and approval of the longterm objectives and strategy. The key responsibilities of Trustees are set out in the statement on page 37. **Fundraising ethos** Whether a long-standing supporter or someone hearing about _Stand by Me_ for the first time, we endeavour to inspire people to get involved in rescuing children from extreme circumstances and providing the opportunities they need to thrive. In our 29 year history we have always focused on building long term relationships with our supporters, exemplified by the foundation of regular sponsors and donors who know the tangible difference their support is making. We allow our supporters to choose the ways in which they wish to be involved as well as where they would like their money used, as we understand how important ownership and choice can be for our supporters. The following principles guide our fundraising strategy and operations: • We aim to inspire people to donate or raise money for _Stand by Me._ • We thank supporters appropriately and demonstrate the tangible difference their money is making to the children around the world. - When we contact our supporters it’s because we think they will be interested to hear how our children are thriving through their support. We listen to supporters and act on their communication requests. - We keep our supporters’ data secure and never pass their personal information on to any other company or charity and we don’t buy or sell data. - Fundraising and marketing is only carried out by our staff so that we are in control of the standards employed. This ensures that supporters and the wider public do not feel pressured to give and are treated with respect at all times, with a particular focus on the protection of vulnerable people. _Stand by Me_ ’s fundraising activities and compliance with fundraising regulations and best practice are closely scrutinised by the Board of Trustees. **Accounts 1 January 2024 - 31 December 2024** _Open Arms Academy, Kenya._ **34** **35** **Stand by Me** (Charity Registered number 1185124) **Trustees' Report for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisers for the year ended 31 December 2024** The Trustees present their report together with the audited financial statements of _Stand by Me_ (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024. The Trustees confirm the report and financial statements of the charity comply with the current statutory requirements which are contained within the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) (FRS 102) updated in January 2019. ## **Independent auditor** ## **Trustees** Gordon Haynes (appointed Trustee 11 July 2024, appointed Chairman 28 May 2025) Mark Clayden (Chairman, resigned 28 May 2025) Edward Carpenter (Treasurer) Nathania MacGregor (resigned 9 May 2024) Alan Ramsay (appointed 14 March 2024, resigned 29 May 2025) Sharon Seymour (resigned 31 March 2025) Greg Smith (appointed 22 April 2024) Elizabeth Staniforth John Tillett (resigned 31 May 2025) Robert J Baxter FCCA Chartered Certified Accountants Statutory Auditor Cooper & Co 9 Palmers Avenue Grays Essex RM17 5TX ## **Bank** Lloyds Bank Danske Bank Market Place PO Box 183 Romford Donegall Square West Essex Belfast RM1 3AA BT1 6JS **Minutes Secretary** Fay Garrett ## **Chief Executive Director** ## **Offices** Ahmad Ayoubi England Office Ireland Office 630 Upper Brentwood Road 16 West Street **Charity registered number** Romford Carrickfergus 1185124 Essex Co. Antrim RM2 6HS BT38 7AR ## **TRUSTEES’ RESPONSIBILITIES STATEMENT** The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The law applicable to charities in England & Wales 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 and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that period. In preparing these 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; - make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; - - prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the charity's transactions and 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, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. 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 are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information included on the charity's website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. This report was approved by the Trustees on 15th October 2025 and signed on their behalf by: **Gordon Haynes** Trustee **Edward Carpenter** Trustee **www.standby.me** **36** **37** ## **Stand by Me Independent Auditor’s Report to the Trustees of Stand by Me** ## **OPINION** We have audited the financial statements of _Stand By Me_ (the 'charity') for the year ended 31 December 2024 which comprise the Statement of financial activities, the Balance sheet, the Statement of cash flows and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standards applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn. This has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015. In our opinion the financial statements: - give a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of its incoming resources and application of resources for the year then ended; - have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and ## **Stand by Me Independent Auditor’s Report to the Trustees of Stand by Me** (continued) - the Trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is not appropriate; or - the Trustees have not disclosed in the financial statements any identified material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt about the charity's ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting for a period of at least twelve months from the date when the financial statements are authorised for issue. ## **OTHER INFORMATION** The Trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the information included in the Annual report, other than the financial statements and our Auditor's report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. ## **MATTERS ON WHICH WE ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT BY EXCEPTION** - have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011. ## **BASIS FOR OPINION** We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. ## **CONCLUSIONS RELATING TO GOING CONCERN** We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the ISAs (UK) require us to report to you where: We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters where the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion: - the information given in the Trustees' report is inconsistent in any material respect with the financial statements; or - sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or - the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or - we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. ## **RESPONSIBILITIES OF TRUSTEES** As explained more fully in the Trustees' responsibilities statement, the Trustees are responsible for the preparation of financial statements which give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. **38** **39** ## **Stand by Me Independent Auditor’s Report to the Trustees of Stand by Me** (continued) In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charity's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. ## **AUDITOR'S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: _www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities_ . This description forms part of our Auditor's report. ## **USE OF OUR REPORT** This report is made solely to the charity's trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and its trustees, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. ## **Robert J Baxter FCCA** Chartered Certified Accountants Statutory Auditor Cooper & Co, 9 Palmers Avenue, Grays, Essex, RM17 5TX ## **Stand by Me Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024** |**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**Note**
**2024**
**£**
**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM:**
Donations and legacies
2
**675,681**
Investments
3
**41,077**
**TOTAL INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS**
**716,758**
**EXPENDITURE ON:**
Raising funds
4
**104,783**
Governance costs
7
**6,338**
Other charitable activities
**795,641**
**TOTAL EXPENDITURE**
8
**906,762**
**NET INCOME / (EXPENDITURE)**
**BEFORE TRANSFERS**
**(190,004)**
Transfers between Funds
16
**244,813**
**NET INCOME / (EXPENDITURE)**
**BEFORE OTHER RECOGNISED**
**GAINS AND LOSSES**
**54,809**
**NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
**54,809**
**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS:**
Total funds brought forward
**913,268**
**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**
**968,077**|**Restricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**2,331,014**
**-**
**2,331,014**
**-**
**-**
**2,108,197**
**2,108,197**
**222,817**
**(244,813)**
**(21,996)**
**(21,996)**
**1,040,696**
**1,018,700**|**Total**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**3,006,695**
**41,077**
**3,047,772**
**104,783**
**6,338**
**2,903,838**
**3,014,959**
**32,813**
**-**
**32,813**
**32,813**
**1,953,964**
**1,986,777**|_Total_
_funds_
_2023_
_£_
_2,748,895_
_33,080_
_2,781,975_
_98,768_

_6,282_
_2,943,298_
_3,048,348_
_(266,373)_
_-_
_(266,373)_
_(266,373)_
_2,220,337_
_1,953,964_| |---|---|---|---| Date: 17th October 2025 Robert J Baxter FCCA is eligible to act as an auditor in terms of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006. The notes on pages 45 to 58 form part of these financial statements. **40** **41** **Stand by Me Statement of Cash Flows for year ended 31 December 2024** ## **Stand by Me Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2024** |**Note**
**FIXED ASSETS**
Tangible assets
12
**CURRENT ASSETS**
Debtors
13
Cash at bank and in hand
**CREDITORS:**amounts falling
14
due within one year
**NET CURRENT ASSETS**
**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES**
**CREDITORS:**amounts falling
15
due after more than one year
**NET ASSETS**
**CHARITY FUNDS**
Restricted funds
Unrestricted funds
**TOTAL FUNDS**|**£**
**253,357**
**1,118,534**
**1,371,891**
**(78,394)**|**2024**
_2023_
**£**
_£_
_£_
**793,280**
_801,630_
_250,336_
_1,133,312_
_1,383,648_
_(81,314)_
**1,293,497**
_1,302,334_
**2,086,777**
_2,103,964_
**(100,000)**
_(150,000)_
**1,986,777**
_1,953,964_
**1,018,700**
_1,040,696_
**968,077**
_913,268_
**1,986,777**
_1,953,964_| |---|---|---| The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on 15th October 2025 and signed on their behalf by: **Gordon Haynes** Trustee **Edward Carpenter** The notes on pages 45 to 58 form part of these financial statements. |**Note**
**Cash fows from operating activities**
Net cash used in operating activities
18
**Change in cash and cash equivalents in the year**
Cash and cash equivalents brought forward
**Cash and cash equivalents carried forward**|**2024**
**£**
**(14,778)**
**(14,778)**
**1,133,312**
**1,118,534**|_2023_
_£_
_(324,777)_| |---|---|---| |||_(324,777)_
_1,458,089_| |||_1,133,312_| The notes on pages 45 to 58 form part of these financial statements. **42** **43** ## **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES** ## **1.1 Basis of preparation of financial statements** The financial statements have been prepared to give a 'true and fair' view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a 'true and fair' view. This departure has involved following the Charities SORP (FRS 102) published on 16 July 2014 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn. **----- Start of picture text -----**
Photograph here
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The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued on 16 July 2014 and Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and Charities Act 2011.. _Stand By Me_ constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. ## **1.2 Income** All income is recognised once the charity has entitlement to the income, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount of income receivable can be measured reliably. For legacies, entitlement is taken as the earlier of the date on which either: the charity is aware that probate has been granted, the estate has been finalised and notification has been made by the executor(s) to the Trust that a distribution will be made, or when a distribution is received from the estate. Receipt of a legacy, in whole or in part, is only considered probable when the amount can be measured reliably and the charity has been notified of the executor's intention to make a distribution. Where legacies have been notified to the charity, or the charity is aware of the granting of probate, and the criteria for income recognition have not been met, then the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed if material. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. _Open Arms Village, Kenya._ **44** **45** ## **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)** ## **1.3 Expenditure** Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges allocated on the portion of the asset’s use. ## **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)** Tangible fixed assets are carried at cost, net of depreciation and any provision for impairment. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost of fixed assets, less their estimated residual value, over their expected useful lives on the following bases: 1% of cost on a straight line basis Freehold property: ## **1.5 Interest receivable** Interest on funds held on deposit is included when receivable and the amount can be measured reliably by the charity; this is normally upon notification of the interest paid or payable by the Bank. ## **1.6 Debtors** Support costs are those costs incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Governance costs are those incurred in connection with administration of the charity and compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements. Costs of generating funds are costs incurred in attracting voluntary income, and those incurred in trading activities that raise funds.s. Charitable activities and Governance costs are costs incurred on the charity's educational operations, including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitable activities. All expenditure is inclusive of irrecoverable VAT. ## **1.4 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation** A review for impairment of a fixed asset is carried out if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of any fixed asset may not be recoverable. Shortfalls between the carrying value of fixed assets and their recoverable amounts are recognised as impairments. Impairment losses are recognised in the Statement of financial activities. Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discounts due. ## **1.7 Cash at Bank and in hand** Cash at bank and in hand includes cash and short term highly liquid investments with a short maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or opening of the deposit or similar account. ## **1.8 Liabilities and provisions** Liabilities are recognised when there is an obligation at the Balance sheet date as a result of a past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefit will be required in settlement, and the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Liabilities are recognised at the amount that the charity anticipates it will pay to settle the debt or the amount it has received as advanced payments for the goods or services it must provide. Provisions are measured at the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time value of money is material, the provision is based on the present value of those amounts, discounted at the pre-tax discount rate that reflects the risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is recognised within interest payable and similar charges. **46** **47** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** **1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)** ## **1.9 Financial instruments** The charity only has financial assets and financial liabilities of a kind that qualify as basic financial instruments. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at transaction value and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans which are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. ## **1.10 Pensions** The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme and the pension charge represents the amounts payable by the charity to the fund in respect of the year. **1.11 Fund accounting** General funds are unrestricted funds which are available for use at the discretion of the Trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes. Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the Trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. Restricted funds are funds which are to be used in accordance with specific restrictions imposed by donors or which have been raised by the charity for particular purposes. The costs of raising and administering such funds are charged against the specific fund. The aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements. ## **2. INCOME FROM DONATIONS AND LEGACIES** |**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
Income from supporters
**205,588**
Gift aid tax recovered
**378,339**
Exchange rate differences
**485**
Income from teams
**91,269**
Total donations and legacies
**675,681**
_Total 2023_
_524,158_
**INVESTMENT INCOME**
**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
Rental income
**14,375**
Bank interest received
**26,702**
**41,077**
_Total 2023_
_33,080_|**Restricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**2,331,014**
**-**
**-**
**-**
**2,331,014**
_2,224,737_
**Restricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**-**
**-**
**-**
_-_|**Total**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**2,536,602**
**378,339**
**485**
**91,269**
**3,006,695**
_2,748,895_
**Total**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**14,375**
**26,702**
**41,077**
_33,080_|_Total_
_funds_
_2023_
_£_
_2,375,133_
_301,385_
_(1,519)_
_73,896_| |---|---|---|---| ||||_2,748,895_| ||||_Total_
_funds_
_2023_
_£_
_9,951_
_23,129_| ||||_33,080_| ||||| ## **3. INVESTMENT INCOME** **48** **49** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **4. COSTS OF RAISING FUNDS** |**Unrestricted**
**Restricted**
**funds**
**funds**
**2024**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
Marketing - website
**15,230**
**-**
Marketing - fundraising costs
**12,847**
**-**
Marketing - consultancy
**3,225**
**-**
Marketing - publications
**4,778**
**-**
Fundraising staff costs
**68,703**
**-**
**104,783**
**-**|**Total**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**15,230**
**12,847**
**3,225**
**4,778**
**68,703**
**104,783**|_Total_
_funds_
_2023_
_£_
_8,970_
_14,443_
_2,550_
_6,402_
_66,403_| |---|---|---| |||_98,768_| ## **5. DIRECT COSTS** |Travel, feld visits and volunteer costs
Funds and resources sent to ministries
Team expenses
Wages and salaries|**Charitable**
**Activities**
**£**
**15,581**
**2,193,318**
**38,465**
**68,121**
**2,315,485**|**Total**
**2024**
**£**
**15,581**
**2,193,318**
**38,465**
**68,121**
**2,315,485**|_Total_
_2023_
_£_
_15,300_
_2,262,788_
_52,989_
_67,289_| |---|---|---|---| ||||_2,398,366_| ## **6. SUPPORT COSTS** |Sundry offce expenses
Communications costs
Computer costs
Printing, postage and stationery
Insurance
Bank charges
Light, heat and services
Rent and rates
Offce equipment and leasing
Building maintenance
Landlord costs
Travel
Wages and salaries
National insurance
Pension cost
Depreciation|**Charitable**
**Activities**
**£**
**3,554**
**3,916**
**39,577**
**32,584**
**2,819**
**23,070**
**12,846**
**6,558**
**856**
**1,092**
**84**
**9,594**
**354,854**
**45,036**
**43,563**
**8,350**
**588,353**|**Total**
**2024**
**£**
**3,554**
**3,916**
**39,577**
**32,584**
**2,819**
**23,070**
**12,846**
**6,558**
**856**
**1,092**
**84**
**9,594**
**354,854**
**45,036**
**43,563**
**8,350**
**588,353**|_Total_
_2023_
_£_
_3,899_
_3,945_
_31,180_
_29,163_
_2,223_
_20,787_
_14,303_
_6,446_
_2,234_
_1,662_
_1,650_
_6,468_
_333,442_
_42,530_
_36,650_
_8,350_| |---|---|---|---| ||||_544,932_| **50** **51** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** **Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **Stand by Me** ## **7. GOVERNANCE COSTS** |**Unrestricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
Auditor's remuneration
**5,940**
Legal fees
**398**
**6,338**|**Restricted**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**-**
**-**
**-**|**Total**
**funds**
**2024**
**£**
**5,940**
**398**
**6,338**|_Total_
_funds_
_2023_
_£_
_5,685_
_597_| |---|---|---|---| ||||_6,282_| |**9.**|**NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)**||| |---|---|---|---| ||This is stated after charging:

Depreciation of tangible fxed assets:
- owned by the charity|**2024**
**£**
**8,350**|_2023_
_£_
_8,350_| ||Auditor’s remuneration - audit|**5,940**|_5,685_| During the year, no Trustees received any remuneration _(2023 - £NIL)_ . During the year, no Trustees received any benefits in kind _(2023 - £NIL)_ . During the year, no Trustees received any reimbursement of expenses ( _2023 - £95)_ . ## **10. AUDITORS’ REMUNERATION** The Auditor's remuneration amounts to an Audit fee of £5,940 ( _2023 - £5,685_ ) ## **8. ANALYSIS OF EXPENDITURE BY EXPENDITURE TYPE** |**Staff costs**
**Depreciation**
**Other costs**
**2024**
**2024**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
Expenditure on raising
**68,703**
**-**
**36,080**
voluntary income
**Costs of raising funds**
**68,703**
**-**
**36,080**
Charitable Activities
**511,574**
**8,350**
**2,383,914**
Expenditure on
**-**
**-**
**6,338**
governance
**580,277**
**8,350**
**2,426,332**
_Total 2023_
_546,314_
_8,350_
_2,493,684_|**Total**
**2024**
**£**
**104,783**
**104,783**
**2,903,838**
**6,338**
**3,014,959**
_3,048,348_|_Total_
_2023_
_£_
_98,768_| |---|---|---| |||_98,768_
_2,943,298_
_6,282_| |||_3,048,348_| |||| ## **11. STAFF COSTS** Staff costs were as follows: |Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Other pension costs|**2024**
_2023_
**£**
_£_
**491,678**
_467,134_
**45,036**
_42,530_
**43,563**
_36,650_
**580,277**
_546,314_| |---|---| The average number of persons employed by the charity during the year was as follows: |Management
Administration and support|**2024**
_203_
**No.**
_No._
**3**
_3_
**11**
_11_
**14**
_14_| |---|---| **52** **53** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** |The number of higher paid employees was:|**2024**|_2023_| |---|---|---| ||**No.**|_No._| |In the band £60,001 - £70,000|**1**|_1_| The total employee benefits of the Key Management Personnel were £149,735 ( _2023: £147,819_ ). One employee received remuneration over £60,000 in 2024 ( _2023:1_ ). The charity Trustees were not paid nor received any other benefits from employment with the charity in the year and no trustee received payment for professional or other services supplied to the charity. During the year no Trustee expenses were inucurred ( _2023 - £95)_ . ## **12. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** |**12.**
**TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS**
||| |---|---|---| |**13.**
**DEBTORS**
Other debtors
Prepayments and accrued income

**Cost**
At 1 January, 2024 and 31 December 2024

**Depreciation**
At 1 January, 2024
Charge for the year
At 31 December, 2024
**Net book value**
At 31 December 2024
_At 31 December 2023_|**2024**
_2023_
**£**
_£_
**252,869**
_249,962_
**488**
_374_
**253,357**
_250,336_
**Freehold Property**
**£**
**835,030**
**33,400**
**8,350**
**41,750**
**793,280**
_801,630_|| |||**33,400**
**8,350**| |||**41,750**| |||**793,280**| |||_801,630_| |||_2023_
_£_
_249,962_
_374_| |||_250,336_| ## **14. CREDITORS: Amounts falling due within one year** |Other loans
Trade creditors
Other taxation and social security
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income|**2024**
**£**
**50,000**
**8,794**
**12,082**
**1,578**
**5,940**
**78,394**|_2023_
_£_
_50,000_
_11,036_
_13,083_
_1,615_
_5,580_| |---|---|---| |||_81,314_| Other loans relates to an interest free loan of £400,000 given to _Stand by Me_ in September 2019 which the charity is repaying over a number of years. ## **15. CREDITORS: Amounts falling due after more than one year** |||**2024**|_2023_| |---|---|---|---| |||**£**|_£_| |Other|loans|**100,000**|_150,000_| **54** **55** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **16. STATEMENT OF FUNDS** ## **17. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS** ## **STATEMENT OF FUNDS - CURRENT YEAR** ## **ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS - CURRENT YEAR** |**Unrestricted funds**
General Funds - all funds
**Restricted funds**
Restricted Funds - all funds
Total of funds

**STATEMENT OF FUNDS - PRIOR YEAR**
**Unrestricted funds**
General Funds - all funds
**Restricted funds**
Restricted Funds - all funds
_Total of funds_|**Balance at**
**1 January**
**2024**
**£**
**913,268**
**1,040,696**
**1,953,964**
_Balance at_
_1 January_
_2023_
_£_
_1,024,418_
_1,195,919_
_2,220,337_|**Income Expenditure**

**£**
**£**
**716,758**
**(906,762)**
**2,331,014**
**(2,108,197)**
**3,047,772**
**(3,014,959)**
_Income Expenditure_

_£_
_£_
_557,238_
_(876,228)_
_2,224,737_
_(2,172,120)_
_2,781,975_
_(3,048,348)_|**Transfers**
**Balance at**
**in/out 31 December**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
**244,813**
**968,077**
**(244,813)**
**1,018,700**
**-**
**1,986,777**
_Transfers_
_Balance at_
_in/out_
_31 December_
_2023_
_£_
_£_
_207,840_
_913,268_
_(207,840)_
_1,040,696_
_-_
_1,953,964_| |---|---|---|---| |**Unrestricted**

**Funds**
**2024**
**£**
Tangible fxed assets
**793,280**
Current assets
**353,191**
Creditors due within one year
**(78,394)**
Creditors due in more than one year
**(100,000)**
**968,077**
**ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS - PRIOR YEAR**
_Unrestricted_
_Funds_
_2023_
_£_
Tangible fxed assets
_801,630_
Current assets
_342,952_
Creditors due within one year
_(81,314)_
Creditors due in more than one year
_(150,000)_
_913,268_|**Restricted**
**Funds**
**2024**
**£**
**-**
**1,018,700**
**-**
**-**
**1,018,700**
_Restricted_
_Funds_
_2023_
_£_
_-_
_1,040,696_
_-_
_-_
_1,040,696_|**Total**
**Funds**
**2024**
**£**
**793,280**
**1,371,891**
**(78,394)**
**(100,000)**
**1,986,777**
_Total_
_Funds_
_2023_
_£_
_801,630_
_1,383,648_
_(81,314)_
_(150,000)_
_1,953,964_| |---|---|---| **56** **57** ## **Stand by Me Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2024** ## **18. RECONCILIATION OF NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES** |Net income/(expenditure) for the year
(as per Statement of Financial Activities)
**Adjustment for:**
Depreciation charges
(Increase)/decrease in debtors
Decrease in creditors
**Net cash used in operating activities**|**2024**
**£**
**32,813**
**8,350**
**(3,021)**
**(52,920)**
**(14,778)**|_2023_
_£_
_(266,373)_
_8,350_
_3,639_
_(70,393)_
_(324,777)_| |---|---|---| ## **19. PENSION COMMITMENTS** The charity operates a defined contributions pension scheme. The assets of the scheme are held separately from those of the charity in an independently administered fund. The pension cost charge represents contributions payable by the charity to the fund and amounted to £43,563 ( _2023: £36,650_ ). ## **20. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS** There were no related party transactions during the year. _Denisa Care Centre, Romania._ **58** **59** **England Office 630 Upper Brentwood Road, Romford, Essex, RM2 6HS Tel: 01708 442271** **Ireland Office 16 West Street, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, BT38 7AR Tel: 028 9335 0009** **Stand By Me is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation in the UK (No. 1185124)** **www.standby.me**