2025-04-04-accounts - Soora Association

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Trustee Annual Report

From 05 April 2024 - 04 April 2025

Soora Association

Legal charity Name: Charity number: 1185315

Operational address: 17-19 wednesbury road, Walsall, West Midlands, WS1 3RU.

Trustees:

Trustees who served during the period from formation and up to the date of this report were as follows:

Farhan Mohamed Chairperson Garad Baaw Secretary Hassan Egeh Deputy chair

Introduction

Soora Association is a non-governmental non-profit making charity organisation founded on 17[th] January 2018 in Walsall, United Kingdom, and legally registered from the UK Charity Commission as a CIO Foundation on 16[th] September 2019. Soora values the local existing potential and resources from the communities and aims strengthening of the community cohesion, improving community development and self-reliance to achieve better life for all. Our vision targeted the diversity of people's different backgrounds and cultures to have similar life opportunities. The organisation as set up to relieve the needs of the community who are in need by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disablement, financial hardship or social and economic circumstances, in particular but not exclusively those who are from immigrant and refugee communities, by:

The relief of financial hardship, Isolation and disadvantaged persons in the community
The relief of unemployment for the benefit of the public in such ways as may be thought fit, including assistance to find employment and self-reliance.
The advancement of education and training of those in the community who are in

need thereof so as to advance them in life and assist them to adapt within the wider community.

Reduction of crimes, violence and anti-social behavior in the community.
The preservation and protection of good physical and mental health
The provision of facilities for recreation or other leisure-time occupation with the object of improving conditions of life.

Aims and Objectives Review.

As part of our commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability, SOORA’s Trustees conduct an annual review of the charity’s aims, objectives and activities carried out during the year. This process helps us assess the progress we have made in fulfilling our mission and ensures that our work remains focused on the public benefit, as outlined by the Charity Commission. The Trustees have used the guidance in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing our aims, objectives, and planning our future activities.

In the review period of April 2024 – April 2025, SOORA continued to fulfil its mission of supporting disadvantaged communities, particularly those from refugee and migrant backgrounds, in the areas of education, employment, welfare support and mental health. The Trustees ensured that all activities were aligned with the charitable objectives and the work carried out during this period demonstrated significant positive outcomes for the community.

Achievements and Performance

SOORA has made significant progress in 2024-2025 and successfully implemented 2 important charitable activities that have had a transformative impact on the lives of individuals in the West Midlands. Through our projects, we have supported marginalised groups, empowered individuals and enhanced the community’s cohesion. Below are the key activities that SOORA carried out and their outcomes.

(Activity 1) The Relief of Hardship and Advancement of Education

1.0 Executive Summery

This report outlines the delivery and impact of Activity 1, encompassing Hardship Relief and Educational Advancement initiatives conducted by SOORA from April 2024 – April 2025. The activity directly addressed the escalating challenges of the cost-of-

living crisis, social isolation, and the digital divide faced by low-income, marginalised, and refugee communities in Birmingham. Through integrated support in welfare guidance, employment, IT access, and computer literacy, the programme empowered 175 unique individuals, fostering greater financial stability, employability, and social integration.

Activity 1: The Relief of Hardship and Advancement of Education

1.0 Executive Summery

This report outlines the delivery and impact of Activity 1, encompassing Hardship Relief and Educational Advancement initiatives conducted by SOORA from 5[th] April 2024 – 4[th] April 2025. The activity directly addressed the escalating challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, social isolation and the digital divide faced by low-income, marginalised and refugee communities in Birmingham. Through integrated support in welfare guidance, employment, IT access and computer literacy, the programme empowered 175 unique individuals, fostering greater financial stability, employability and social integration.

2.0 Activity Overview: The Relief of Hardship

SOORA’s hardship relief intervention targeted the acute financial precarity and isolation experienced by low-income families, refugees, and marginalised groups. In a context of rising inflation and complex systemic barriers, the provision of essential guidance and practical support was critical to mitigating poverty, homelessness and mental health strain.

2.1 Financial Support and Welfare Guidance

Objective: To ensure clients understand and successfully access statutory welfare entitlements, thereby alleviating immediate financial pressure and risk.

Service Delivery:

Provided comprehensive support to 175 clients navigating the benefits system.
Completed applications for 34 individuals across key benefits: Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Employment Support Allowance (ESA), Housing Benefit, Child Benefit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Delivered specialised support including:
Eligibility clarification regarding income and residency.
End-to-end application process assistance including form completion and documentation.
Guidance through medical assessments and benefit implications.

Impact:

Clients secured critical financial assistance, reducing immediate risks of poverty and homelessness.
Enhanced long-term financial stability and reduced anxiety associated with navigating complex bureaucratic systems.

2.2 Employment Support:

Objective: To dismantle barriers to employment and equip individuals with the skills and confidence to secure sustainable work.

Service Delivery:

Provided targeted job-seeking support to 86 individuals facing barriers such as language deficits, lack of qualifications, and limited market access.
Services included:
One-to-one CV building and updating.
Interview technique coaching (professional presentation, question response, body language).
Job application guidance and strategic job-search support.
Referrals to partner recruitment agencies, including Tudor Agency and other permanent-role specialists.

Impact:

Clients demonstrated increased confidence and competence in the job market.
Improved financial situations and self-reliance through successful employment outcomes.

2.3 IT and Digital Access Support

Objective: To bridge the digital divide by providing essential technology access and skills, a prerequisite for modern employability and service access.

Service Delivery:

Supported 55 low-income individuals by providing fundamental technological tools and training.

Key provisions included :

Access to computers, the internet, and necessary software.
Support with creating professional emails, completing online job applications, and building digital CVs.
Foundational digital skills training for communicating with service providers and accessing online public services.

Impact:

Enabled meaningful participation in the digital economy and online civic life.
Reduced a critical barrier to employment and essential service access for disadvantaged individuals.

3.0 Activity Overview: The Advancement of Education

Recognising education as a core pillar of integration and empowerment, SOORA delivered targeted computer literacy programmes for refugee, immigrant and marginalised adults with a focus on school drop-outs and new arrivals.

3.1 Computer Literacy Programme

Objective: To equip participants with foundational and practical digital skills to

enhance employability, access services and foster social integration.

Programme Delivery:

Provided computer literacy instruction to 55 participants from diverse ethnic and refugee backgrounds.

Delivered a structured programme of 8 hours of weekly instruction , tiered across four levels to accommodate varying abilities.
Curriculum focused on practical, real-world application:
Basic computer skills (word processing, internet navigation, email management).
Job search and application skills (online portals, digital CVs).
Accessing government and essential services (Universal Credit, NHS app, public transport).
Fostered a supportive learning environment encouraging peer interaction and experience-sharing.

4.0 Impact Evaluation

A formal evaluation conducted at the programme's conclusion yielded the following outcomes:

Skill Acquisition: 78.5% of participants reported significant improvement in basic computer literacy, directly enhancing their ability to communicate with services, pursue education and seek employment.
Increased Self-Reliance: Participants gained confidence in independently engaging with healthcare, housing and welfare services, reducing dependency.
Progression: Multiple participants successfully secured employment or enrolled in further education programmes.
Social Cohesion: The programme cultivated a strong sense of community with participants highlighting new friendships and support networks that actively reduced feelings of isolation.

5.0 Conclusion

Activity 1 successfully delivered a holistic and responsive suite of services that addressed both immediate hardship and longer-term systemic barriers for vulnerable populations in Birmingham. By integrating financial guidance, employment support, digital access and foundational education, SOORA has demonstrably improved participants' stability, opportunity and social connectedness. The outcomes underscore the necessity of continued, integrated support in these areas to foster resilience and empowerment within marginalised communities.

Activity 2: Young People's Physical Fitness and Wellness Support

1.0 Programme Overview

Throughout the reporting period, SOORA implemented a targeted initiative to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of young people (aged 16–24) residing in the Small Heath area and surrounding postcodes (B8, B9, B10, B12) in Birmingham. The programme utilised a dual-activity model, combining structured physical fitness interventions with dedicated mentorship support.

2.0 Activity A: Structured Fitness and Wellness Programme

this component was designed to promote holistic health through organised physical activities, addressing both physiological fitness and psychological wellbeing.

2.1 Programme Design & Delivery

The activity encompassed a range of regular, supervised sessions including yoga, aerobics, walking groups, and team sports, with a particular emphasis on football. These activities were strategically selected to improve cardiovascular health, build discipline, reduce stress and foster social cohesion.

2.2 Engagement Strategy & Format

The programme actively recruited 48 young people from disadvantaged wards, including Small Heath, Bordesley Green, Alum Rock, Sparkbrook and Balsall Heath. Participants were enrolled in an after-school style programme focusing on physical activity, teamwork and healthy competition.

A structured league format was implemented, dividing participants into four teams (A, B, C, D). Teams competed in two-hour football matches twice weekly, totalling four hours of direct activity. A competitive league system, culminating in a final cup

and prize presentation for the winning and runner-up teams was employed to sustain motivation, encourage consistent participation and strengthen community connections.

3.0 Activity B: Mentorship and One-to-One Support

Operating in parallel to the fitness programme, this component provided crucial personalised guidance. A total of 128 participants received support, delivered through both group workshops and individual sessions. This 12-month pilot initiative specifically targeted young people from deprived areas combining these mentorship

and skills workshops with physical activity to improve employability, wellbeing and social integration.

3.1 Participant Recruitment : Engagement was achieved through a hybrid model:
Direct enrolment at the SOORA centre.
Formal referrals from partner agencies, including schools, youth offending teams, job centres and refugee support organisations.
Primary eligibility criteria were: age (16-24), residence in a target ward and identification as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), at risk of offending, a school drop-out and/or a newly arrived migrant or refugee.

4.0 Outcomes and Impact

The integrated programme yielded significant positive results:

High Retention : An 87% completion rate was achieved for the 12-month programme.
Physical Health: 76% of participants reported improved physical fitness and the adoption of healthier routines.
Community Safety: Local police noted a noticeable reduction in youth-related antisocial incidents in the vicinity of project venues during activity times.
Social Integration : Refugee and immigrant participants 29 individuals demonstrated markedly increased social connections and confidence, with 80% reporting feeling more connected to the community.
Skills Development: Workshops in digital literacy and interview preparation were identified as highly valuable by participants.
Progression: 63 individuals successfully moved into employment, apprenticeships, or further education.

5.0 Challenges and Learnings

Several operational challenges were identified and managed:

Initial Recruitment : Early hesitancy among some target youth was overcome by leveraging word-of-mouth and trusted community referral pathways.
Funding Uncertainty: The short-term nature of funding created planning difficulties for cohort transitions and long-term sustainability.
Venue Logistics: Ensuring consistent access to affordable, appropriate spaces required proactive partnership management and flexibility.

6.0 Conclusion

The pilot project successfully demonstrated that a combined approach linking physical activities, skills training and mentorship effectively engaged at-risk young people and lead to measurable improvements in employability, health, and social integration. The model is replicable and scalable with strong potential for greater impact through extended funding and strengthened local partnerships.

The project has laid a foundation for continued youth support in Birmingham and it is recommended that the learning from this pilot be used to shape future youth empowerment initiatives across the city.

Public Benefit

SOORA’s activities have directly benefited vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals in the community, aligning with the public benefit requirement outlined by the Charity Commission. The charity has worked to improve the lives of individuals from refugee, migrant and ethnic minority backgrounds by providing essential services in education, employment, welfare support and mental health care. Through our work, we have contributed to the reduction of hardship, the promotion of education, and the enhancement of mental well-being in marginalised communities.

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing financial statements for each financial year that provide a true and fair view of the charity’s activities during the period and of its financial position at the end of the period. This includes ensuring the charity adheres to accounting and auditing requirements as outlined in the Charities Act 2011.

The Trustees also have a duty to safeguard the charity’s assets, ensuring that appropriate steps are taken to prevent fraud and other irregularities. In line with this responsibility, SOORA has implemented internal controls and monitoring systems to ensure financial accountability and the effective use of funds.

The Trustees are also responsible for ensuring that the charity’s website and financial information are maintained with integrity and they confirm that the financial statements give a true and fair view of SOORA’s financial position.

Conclusion

SOORA has had a successful year in delivering impactful services to vulnerable communities in the West Midlands particularly (Walsall and Birmingham). We are proud of the positive changes we have facilitated in the lives of the people we serve. Moving forward, we will continue to focus on meeting the needs of marginalised individuals and communities while adhering to our charitable objectives and ensuring that we provide high-quality services that truly make a difference.

We are grateful to our funders, partners and the dedicated staff and volunteers who have contributed to our work. The Trustees are confident that SOORA will continue to grow and deepen its impact over the next twelve months.

This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf by:

Chairperson: Farhan Mohamed

Date: 20/01/2026

Independent examiner’s report

For the year ended 04 April 2025

I report on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 04 April 2025, which are set out on pages 12 to 17.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The trustees (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law) are responsible for the preparation of accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 43(2) of the Charities Act 1993 (the 1993 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent examination, it is my responsibility to:

examine the accounts under section 43 of the 1993 Act;
to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 43(7)(b) of the 1993 Act; and
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention, which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

to keep accounting records in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; and
to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities have not been met;

-----------------------------------------Hassan Ali (Accountant) Aflah Accounting Services Unit 8, 122-126 Coldharbour Lane Hayes, Middlesex UB3 3HL

Date: 20/01/2026

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION)

Statement of Financial Activities

For the year ending 4 April 2025

Notes UnrestrictedRestricted funds funds £ £ *Incoming resources* From charitable activities 2 5,673 8,000 Investment income 2 - Total incoming resources 5,673 8,000 *Resources expended* Charitable activities 3 6,174 12,805 Governance costs 4 200 - Other resources expended Total Resources Expended 6,374 12,805 Net resources for the year (701) (4,805) Fund balances at 5 April 2024 1,314 8,648 Fund balances at 04 April 2025 613 3,843	2025 Total £ 13,673 -	2024 Total £ 18,045 -
	13,673	18,045
	18,979 200	28,066 300 -
	19,179	28,366
	(5,506) 9,962	3,979 16,304
	4,456	20,283

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION)

Balance Sheet

For the year ending 4 April 2025

Notes Fixed assets Tangible 5 *Current Assets:* Cash at bank and in hand *Creditors:*amounts falling due within one year 6 *Net Current Assets* *Total Assets less current liabilities* *Funds of the charity:* Balance for the year Balance brought forward	2024 £ £ £ £ 1,325 1,767 1,325 1,767 3,330 8,494 3,330 8,494 (200) (300) 3,130 8,194 4,456 9,961 (5,506) (10,321) 9,962 20,283 4,456 9,962 2025	2024 £ £ £ £ 1,325 1,767 1,325 1,767 3,330 8,494 3,330 8,494 (200) (300) 3,130 8,194 4,456 9,961 (5,506) (10,321) 9,962 20,283 4,456 9,962 2025

		9,961
		(10,321) 20,283
		9,962

For the financial year ended 04 April 2025, the Charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (2011 Act).

The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that they keep charity's accounting records in accordance with s130 of the 2011 Act and preparing accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act.

The financial statements on pages 7 to 12 were approved by the trustees and signed on their behalf by:

………………………………..

Date: 20 January 2026

Mr Farhan Mohamed Chairperson

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION)

Notes to the Accounts

For the year ending 4 April 2025

1 Accounting Policies

1.1 Basis of accounting

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, and have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (Revised SORP 2005) and the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities.

1.2 Incoming Resources

Grants and donations are recognised on accruals basis.

Incoming resources are reported gross.

1.3 Resources Expended

Resources expended are included in the Statement of Financial Activities on accruals basis, inclusive of any VAT that cannot be recovered.

Expenditure that is directly attributable to specific activities has been included in these cost categories. Where costs are attributable to more than one activity, they have been apportioned across the cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of those resources.

1.4 Depreciation

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation.

Provision for depreciation of tangible fixed assets held by the charity is made at an annual rate of 25% on reducing balance basis.

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION)

Notes to the Accounts

For the year ending 4 April 2025

2. Grants and Donations

The Albert Hunt Trust National Lottery 2. Investment Income Interest receivable Total Incoming Resources Fund Raising Donations from members & the public Access Sport CIO Trust Heart of England	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2025 Total 2024 Total £ £ £ - - - 3,000 - - - 9,942 - 5,000 5,000 - - 4,998 30 30 - 5,643 3,000 8,643 105
	5,673 8,000 13,673 18,045
	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2025 Total 2024 Total £ £ £
	- - - -

	5,673 8,000 13,673 18,045

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION) Notes to the Accounts For the year ending 4 April 2025

3a. Direct Charitable Expenditure

Operational/Activity Cost Training Publicity 3b. Support Costs Total Charitable Activities 4. Governance Total Resources Expended Professional Fees Insurance Depreciation Audit and Accountancy Printing & Publication Charitable activities Volunteer Expenses Telephone & Internet Staff cost Premises Utilities	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2025 Total £ £ - 3600 3,600 - 1,826 1,826 - 6,299 6,299 - 1,080 1,080 2,534 - 2,534 800 - 800 1,202 - 1,202 146 - 146 1,050 - 1,050 - - -	2024 Total £ 4,200 6,825 8,545 1,251 1,975 1,200 1,562 269 1,050 -
	5,732 12,805 18,537	26,877
	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2025 Total £ £ - - - 442 - 442	2024 Total £ 600 589
	442 - 442	1,189

	6,174 12,805 18,979	28,066
	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds 2025 Total £ £ 200 - 200 - - -	2024 Total £ 300 -
	200 - 200	300

	6,374 12,805 19,179	28,366

SOCIAL ORIENTATION & RELIEF ASSOCIATION (SOORA ASSOCIATION)

Notes to the Accounts

For the year ending 4 April 2025

5 Tangible fixed assets At 05 April 2024 Additions Depreciation At 05 April 2024 Charge for period At 04 April 2025 Net book values At 04 April 2025 At 04 April 2024 6 Creditors: amount falling due within one year Accountancy fee for 2024/25 Cost	Office Equipment £ 4,904 -	Total £ 4,904 -
	4,904	4,904
	3,137 442	3,137 442
	3,579	3,579

	1,325	1,325

	1,767	1,767
	2025 £ - 200	2024 £ - 300
	200	300