## trustees annual report 2024-25
## The Trustees’ report for the 12 months ended 31st October 2025
MindFood CIO, 6 Claygate Road, Ealing W13 6XG **Charity Registration No** . 1185639
## Contents
Chair’s review Page 3 - 5
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|Structure, governance and management|
|About us|Page 6 - 10|
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Objective, history, mission, vision, values and approach
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|Programmes|Page 11 - 25|
|Our activities|
|Achievements|Page 26 - 46|
|Awards, beneficiaries, impact and fundraising|
|Financials|Page 47 - 58|
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Independent examiners' report and financial activities
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **1** of **58**
## Administration
Patron and Founder Trustees
Ciaran Biggins
Directors
Lucy Clark (Programmes) Sarah Hadland (Finance) Sarah Jones (Fundraising and Development)
Amira Al Madami Ana Pongrac James Abery (resigned 30/11/24) Katarzyna Rzepnikowska (appt. 01/11/24) Marianne Holmes Stephen Macallister (Chair) Waveney Patel
Registration numbers
Registered address
Charity: 1185639 Company: CE019078
6 Claygate Road, London, W13 9XG
Independent Examiner
Siobhan Glenister, David Howard, 5 The Square, Bagshot, GU19 5AX
The Trustees present their report and the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 October 2025. The Trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity.
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## chair’s review
Throughout 2024-2025, we had much to celebrate, as outlined in this report. Our success in adopting a long-term approach to personalised support allowed us to reach more beneficiaries than ever before, including individuals facing complex mental health challenges. As we near the end of 2025, we are fortunate to be in a strong financial position. However, we still confront significant challenges in meeting the growing demand for our services, as the prevalence of mental health conditions continues to rise, leaving many unable to access the help and support they need. We recognise that issues related to stigma and access to support will persist, but we are determined to continue driving change. We are committed to ensuring that everyone has the best opportunity to access the care and support necessary to live their lives to the fullest by supporting our participants at every stage of their mental health journey. Thanks to the invaluable contributions of our participants, who co-develop our programs, and our dedicated volunteers, who share their stories, experiences and help to grow produce for the benefit of others, MindFood has been awarded The King's Award for Voluntary Service, equivalent to an MBE and awarded for life. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who played a role in this achievement and made it possible.
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## Structure, Governance and Management
MindFood has a 16-page Constitution and is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation - its only voting members are its charity Trustees. We adhere to The Charities Act 2011 definitions of Trustees as the people who have general control and management of the administration, and to the principles set out in The Code of Conduct for the Voluntary and Community Sector that state ‘Trustees should have a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge needed to run an organisation effectively’ and that ‘Trustees should receive the necessary induction, training, and ongoing support they need to discharge their duties’.
## Appointments and recruitment
Appointments are made as per the Articles of Association and our Governing Document which specifies that there should be a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 15 Trustees. Apart from the first charity Trustees, all Trustees are usually appointed for a fixed term of 3 years and for a maximum continuous term of 9 years, by a resolution passed at a properly convened meeting of the charity Trustees. Short biographies of all the Trustees are on our website.
Recruitment is conducted in accordance with our
Trustee Recruitment Policy, which adheres to The Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP). This policy outlines the methods adopted for the recruitment and appointment of new Trustees, as well as the policies and procedures in place for the induction and training of Trustees.
## Benefits
Trustees do not receive any benefits from their position. They are entitled to reclaim travel and other reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. The charity pays for Trustee indemnity insurance. No Trustees made a claim in the 2024/2025 period.
## Board meetings
Board Meetings with the Trustees and Directors are held every three months.
Advisers
Advisers are used as required, for Safeguarding and HR and are agreed by the Directors.
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Induction and training
Induction procedures for new Trustees are the responsibility of the Chair. All Trustees are provided with a detailed role description and given informal guidance and support regarding their role, and complete a skills audit and induction form. All new Trustees are required to attend ongoing training to help them in their roles.
Training and development are ongoing, as required, and agreed by the Board. New Trustees complete the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) Trustee Training and certificate.
## Responsibilities
**Responsibilities.** The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual 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 and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the charity's incoming resources and the application of those resources 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 2019 (FRS102) make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent
- state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements
- incorporated to prepare the financial statements on a 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 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 Charities (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.
## Public benefit statement
The Trustees understand and have complied with their duty to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s Public Benefit guidance and are confident that the aims and objectives of MindFood CIO satisfy the public benefit requirement. Further details of how this is achieved are set out in this report.
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## about us
## Objective
The goal of MindFood is to promote and maintain good health for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, disabilities, or emotional disorders, as well as for those in need of rehabilitation due to such conditions. MindFood also aims to help prevent the onset or recurrence of these issues through therapeutic gardening, horticulture, and related nature-based activities.
## History
MindFood was originally established as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in October 2012. The Trustees believed that MindFood would benefit from formal charitable status, so an application was submitted to the Charity Commission to convert from a CIC to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). MindFood CIO was officially registered on 4th October 2019.
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## Mission, Vision, and Values
Our vision is to make mental health support more accessible and to reconnect people with nature. We strive to address individual needs through flexible, adaptive programs and long-term support. Our goal is to empower beneficiaries to create lasting improvements in their emotional, mental, and physical well-being, all within a safe and discrimination-free environment.
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Our Mission
Our vision Our values
Improving wellbeing
Better mental health is Person centred and
by connecting
accessible for all Nature focused
With nature
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## Approach
It's a sad reality that adults struggling with mental health issues face significant barriers in accessing the care and support they need. They are among the least likely of any group with a long-term health condition or disability to find employment, maintain steady, long-term relationships, live in decent housing, or be socially included in mainstream society. Factors such as social isolation, poor housing, unemployment, and poverty are closely linked to mental ill health and profoundly affect quality of life. At MindFood, we believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone.
## Our mission
To provide free, holistic, and long-term support to adults in Ealing experiencing mental health challenges and feeling marginalised, often managing multiple complex needs that trap them in a cycle of illness. We aim to meet individual needs through responsive, adaptive programmes and long-term support. Empowering beneficiaries to make a lasting difference to their emotional, mental, and physical health.
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Our vision
To improve mental health and wellbeing by reconnecting people with nature, each other and the community.
## Our support
Our holistic support is free and includes specialised intervention support such as befriending and evidence-based ecotherapy courses. These sessions cover diverse topics such as food growing, gardening DIY projects, art, mindfulness practices, and supported volunteering, all delivered in a natural setting. Our goal is to provide sustained and comprehensive support for long-term impact.
We deliver these activities from Cleveley Crescent Allotments, Horsenden Farm, The Dig in Hanwell, Chiswick House and online. Additionally, we organise events, excursions and outreach work to help promote and maintain recovery, ultimately transforming lives and creating lasting change.
## Co-developed services
Our beneficiaries (participants) play a crucial role in shaping MindFood by providing feedback on services, co-producing programs, and advocating for changes that better meet their needs. By sharing their experiences and insights, they help influence the direction of MindFood and contribute to our overall strategy. Additionally, they become part of the MindFood team, bringing their lived experiences, knowledge, and insights to enhance our programs and ensure that our services effectively meet the needs of those who use them.
## Grow to share
Our "Grow to Share" approach ensures that everyone feels valued, productive, and useful. Sharing art,
produce, seedlings, and flowers grown with the local community reduces isolation and helps to develop skills, understanding, resilience, and the emotional capacity to maintain positive relationships. Providing essential elements critical for good mental health - a sense of belonging, acceptance, validation, and self-worth. Our sessions connect individuals, creating a sense of community that reduces social isolation and helps participants build their own support networks.
## Our delivery team
All of our session leaders started as participants in the MindFood program. Having gone through it themselves, they possess essential self-care tools to manage their own wellbeing, in addition to their training.
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## Nature
In Ealing, only 10% of adults with mental health disorders have access to outdoor spaces. This is significantly lower than the national average. Spending time in natural environments is vital for improving mental wellbeing. Research has shown that being in nature can greatly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, a connection to nature is associated with a greater sense of purpose, meaning, and overall wellbeing. We help connect individuals with nature-focused activities designed to promote mental health and encourage the use of green spaces for personal growth and community engagement. We help people reconnect with and appreciate nature.
Our evidence-based ecotherapy sessions allow participants to explore activities such as food growing, garden DIY, art, and other mindful practices in a socially supportive environment. As the only provider of nature-based sessions specifically designed to teach mental health recovery tools and techniques in Ealing, we receive regular referrals from other organisations.
By planting vegetables and flowers, we also address broader community needs, such as food insecurity, by sharing the produce grown and promoting healthy eating. Unsurprisingly, people with a strong bond to nature are more inclined to engage in pro-environmental behaviours, such as recycling and growing and eating seasonal food.
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## Environment
Our priority is people and nature. We teach organic food growing and sustainability gently and informally, engaging individuals in making meaningful changes in their lives. We encourage everyone to appreciate where food comes from, eat seasonally and locally, and enjoy vegetables at their freshest. We operate without a head office; all our work is conducted in nature and focused on maintaining green spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Our natural spaces incorporate raised beds and planters filled with fruits, vegetables, and flowers, making the area welcoming and accessible. Growing food organically, without using herbicides or pesticides, to support local wildlife and pollinators. Using sustainable practices such as composting to enrich the soil. Collecting rainwater for irrigation to conserve water, crop rotation to prevent soil depletion and help reduce the risk of pests and diseases. Prioritising native or welladapted plants to minimise the need for extra water. By avoiding non-biodegradable materials and opting for organic fertilisers, we ensure that our practices are environmentally friendly. These efforts enrich the soil with nutrients, reduce landfill waste, and lower the carbon footprint associated with food transport through local production.
We collaborate with local council initiatives that promote climate and food action, such as Act for Ealing and the Ealing Food Partnership, and we contribute to Ealing Council’s Food Action Plan.
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## Programmes
## Activities
We provide specialised intervention through befriending and offer evidence-based ecotherapy courses consisting of sessions focused on food growing, garden DIY, art, and other mindfulnessbased activities. Our group sessions are delivered throughout the year, generally 10 sessions a week. These are typically divided into two categories: introductory Level 1 courses ‘Growing’ and a series of longer-term Level 2 courses ‘Sustaining.’ Session themes depend on participants' needs and are co-developed with beneficiaries.
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Befriending
Growing - Level 1 Sustaining - Level 2
Introductory and time-bound Long term ongoing support
Growing Nurturing Naturally Building Grow Some Sustainable MindFood at
Wellbeing Wellbeing Creative Wellbeing Share Some Wellbeing Home
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## Referrals and Befriending
We accept and support both professional and self-referrals. Recognising that there is no "one size fits all" solution to mental health, we prioritise a personalised and holistic approach that takes into account the changing needs and individual circumstances of each participant.
## **Our aim is to support everyone who refers to us in the way that best meets their needs.**
## Self referrals
Anyone can self-refer to our services, which is important for several reasons. It empowers individuals to take control of their wellbeing, improves access to care by eliminating the need for a GP referral, and allows for quicker access to our support. This approach helps people who may otherwise hesitate to seek help due to reluctance to see a doctor, challenges in obtaining a GP referral, or simply not knowing where to go for assistance. By self-referring, participants can join us more quickly, taking a proactive approach to managing their mental health needs. This reduces delays and can potentially prevent crises from worsening.
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Professional referrals
We also accept professional referrals to ensure that we can support a wide spectrum and complexity of mental health issues. Individuals referred by professionals often require additional support to access our services comfortably. To ensure accessibility for those facing complex mental health challenges, we do not view hesitation or difficulty in attending our sessions as a "failure." Instead, we see each engagement as a positive step forward.
## Dwell time
The time between the initial contact and actually feeling ready to join us onsite can sometimes take months or even years. We believe that this "dwell time," supported by befriending, is crucial for building trust. This perspective helps prevent reinforcing the belief that society does not care, particularly for those on the margins who may be approaching a mental health crisis and feeling overwhelmed.
Many individuals have lived with emotional or mental health issues for a long time, making it difficult for them to identify or express their concerns and symptoms.
“I was very anxious and used to work myself up over attending sessions but Lucy worked really hard to make me feel comfortable and welcome with no pressure”
## Befriending support
Our befriending programme specifically targets participants who are often considered "unreachable" due to isolation caused by mental health challenges. By providing ongoing one-on-one support outside of our regular sessions, we offer individuals the time and privacy they need to confide in us and talk through their challenges.
This support helps them identify, manage, or resolve issues that may impact their mental health, such as debt, housing, trauma, employment, family concerns, substance misuse, or suicidal ideation. By addressing these issues, we can help break the cycle of illness that prevents them from accessing support.
“MindFood helps me distract myself from a lot of negative thoughts and gives me something to think about, it also forces me to think about the future in a positive way”
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## Growing Wellbeing
Our introductory programme serves as a starting point for anyone seeking support and focuses on restoring hope and self-belief by empowering participants.
It teaches food growing techniques and evidencebased self-care methods that enable individuals to manage their own wellbeing.
The course consists of six sessions, aimed at helping people reconnect with nature and each other. It emphasises nature as a refuge from the pressures of everyday life, allowing participants to leave the outside world behind for a couple of hours.
This approach helps cultivate inner strength and fosters mental and emotional resilience, equipping participants with a diverse set of skills and tools that can be applied both in the workplace and in everyday life.
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## Nurturing Wellbeing
We launched our new pilot programme designed for expecting and new mothers. Featuring a rolling/drop-in six-session course that focuses on well-being and self-care. Participants will learn evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness, sleep improvement, and nutrition for mental health. The sessions will take place at The Dig, a convenient location with easy transport access and a single-level layout practical for prams.
This initiative addresses social isolation among new mothers, which can contribute to postpartum depression. Our befriending program and nature-based activities like light food growing tasks, creative workshops and gentle walks in the Farm’s sensory garden will provide emotional support in a judgmentfree environment, encouraging open discussions about motherhood struggles.
By connecting new mothers through online and in-person support groups, we aim to empower them to prioritise mental health and build meaningful relationships. Collaborating with NHS services and community organisations, we strive to create a supportive network that fosters belonging, acceptance, and self-worth.
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## Naturally Creative
These nature-based art sessions have enhanced our connections with mental health professionals.
They include our typical self-care themes offered at Horsenden Farm, which promote creativity and encourage a shared understanding through art and nature. This approach provides a valuable means of selfexpression, particularly for those who feel they have little or no control over their circumstances.
These sessions allow non-gardeners to access our support and connect with our health and wellbeing network.
They serve as a platform for teaching self-care, exploring various mindfulness techniques both in the group and at home, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
During the first half of the year, sessions are held outdoors, culminating in an exhibition. As the weather turns colder, sessions move indoors to the Farm’s hayloft.
Additionally, attendance for the Naturally Creative sessions has reached maximum capacity.
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## Building Wellbeing
This group is specifically designed for men, by men and focuses on DIY gardening and mental health self-care. It is predominantly a ‘doing’ rather than ‘talking’ eco-therapy, building and nurturing self-confidence and agency.
While a mixed group is already available at Cleveley, this men's group is particularly important because research shows that men are disproportionately affected by suicide. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in England and Wales.
Additionally, men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, whereas women tend to seek our support more often. In the UK, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.
The group has been providing valuable insights that benefit all our programs, and we have observed an increase in male referrals for all groups as a result.
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## Grow Some Share Some
Our drop-in programme offers an opportunity to gain experience in growing fruit and vegetables. The aim is to share the harvest with friends and family, as well as to cultivate young plants to donate for free to local primary schools and community support groups. This initiative also provides a chance to reconnect with nature in a friendly and supportive environment.
Participants can grow fruit, vegetables, flowers, and herbs while embracing the outdoors through guided walks, creative projects, and interactions with nature. Our locations feature a mix of outdoor growing spaces and indoor facilities, including polytunnels, greenhouses, and a ‘geodesic dome’ (which we built ourselves), allowing us to grow year-round, regardless of the weather.
We offer ESOL-friendly (English for Speakers of Other Languages) sessions for individuals who want to participate but have limited English proficiency. These sessions are similar to our regular offerings, but with more emphasis on visual communication, such as pointing and smiling. We also implement a buddy system to ensure everyone feels welcomed. Food and food-growing are universal languages that we all understand.
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## Sustainable Wellbeing
This builds on the foundational concepts learned in the Growing Wellbeing programme. Leading a fulfilling life means different things to different people. The sessions are designed to help participants rediscover their sense of purpose and motivation in a way that feels like a natural progression and lasts as long as needed. They are co-developed and adapted to meet the changing needs of long-term participants.
While goals are a common feature in the working world, many people find that they often lead to feelings of stress, helplessness, and failure. Our challenge is to transform empowerment into a tangible and measurable path forward that feels unpressured.
We aim to assist participants in rediscovering their sense of purpose and motivation progressively, enabling them to manage their personal experiences, aspirations, and goals, which may evolve over time.
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## MindFood at Home
Supporting befriending is a vital part of our service. We hold weekly online chats that provide an excellent opportunity for members of the MindFood community to connect. These sessions create a space for participants to share the highs and lows of their week, discuss nature and gardening news, and practice mindfulness through guided meditations.
This group also embodies key coproduction values, allowing members to give regular feedback that helps inform our operations. To ensure we can support everyone, regardless of their circumstances, we have developed and expanded our digital services.
For those unable to join us in person, and to enhance our befriending efforts while consolidating learnings from the sessions, we offer growing wellbeing
content via email. Over seven weeks, participants receive emails covering the content of our Growing Wellbeing course. These emails include self-care themed videos, mindfulness prompts, and gardening tips, and serve as a recap of what course participants have learned.
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## Festive Workshop
Our highly anticipated annual festive workshops are an event that everyone looks forward to.
This year, we hosted willowweaving workshops for all our participants.
While many attendees enjoy making Christmas wreaths, we focus on the activity as a celebration of the greenery that thrives during the winter months. This time of year often leads people to think about nature's dormancy, but our sessions provided a wonderful opportunity to bring together participants, both old and new.
Additionally, this year we made extra wreaths and delivered them to our local food bank, The Store Cupboard and to beneficiaries at local charity BEfriend. We hoped to bring some cheer and let their visitors know that we were thinking of them during this difficult time.
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## Excursions
Throughout the year, we regularly organise trips that provide a valuable opportunity for MindFood participants to socialise and connect outside of our sessions. These excursions help foster a sense of community, enhance creativity, and increase cultural awareness. They can also reduce stress and anxiety, while improving self-esteem by encouraging physical activity, which in turn helps regulate mood and energy levels.
## Excursions this year
- Kew Gardens in Richmond, London: These beautiful botanical gardens are the most biodiverse place on Earth, featuring over 50,000 living plants.
- The Orchid Festival hosted at Kew
- Bluebell Walks in Perivale Wood: This Local Nature Reserve in Ealing, West London, spans 27 acres and is primarily ancient oak woodland, showcasing stunning bluebells in the spring.
- Citizen Zoo visits to the Beaver Project. Naturally Creative Walks. These involve taking inspirational walks in nature and creating art based on the findings.
- Visits to galleries for community events.
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## Volunteers
Over time, participants generally require less support and can transition into the "Supported Volunteering" stage of recovery. In this phase, they contribute more independently and confidently to our sustainable green spaces by growing and sharing food, as well as maintaining a welcoming and safe environment for everyone.
Community involvement is crucial, especially for individuals facing loneliness and isolation. Sharing produce, seedlings, and flowers with the local community helps reduce isolation and fosters the development of skills, understanding, resilience, and emotional capacity, all of which are essential for maintaining and managing positive relationships. These activities provide vital elements for good mental health, such as a sense of belonging, feeling accepted, validation, and self-worth, all of which help to create a strong sense of community.
As our 'Supported Volunteers' recover and grow, we assist them in recognising the value of their contributions to the community. They offer their time and expertise to help maintain and enhance our green spaces with additional projects. Many of them subsequently go on to
volunteer independently with other community projects. Some choose to train more formally, either via courses at Capel Manor, apprenticeships at Kew, or taking up roles in a mental health setting.
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## The MindFood Team
Our team consists of 11 staff, totalling 2.8 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, who deliver sessions six days a week (The twelfth person in the picture is our founder and patron, Ciaran Biggins).
Our session leaders are former participants who have been supported through volunteering and retraining and are now employed by MindFood. All of them are experts in managing common mental health challenges based on their personal experiences. Additionally, our Growing Wellbeing session leaders have backgrounds or additional training in Occupational Health, psychodynamic counselling, or have gained knowledge and training through third-sector mental health support services.
We take a person-centred approach, allowing us to adapt to the changing needs of participants. This flexibility enables individuals to attend different sessions and integrate selfcare teachings into any part of the programme they feel comfortable accessing, with support from MindFood at Home.
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## Achievements
## Kings Award for Voluntary Service
We are thrilled to announce that we have been nominated for, and have successfully received, the King's Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS). This award is equivalent to an MBE and is the highest honor given to local voluntary groups in the UK. It is awarded for life.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this possible: our wonderful supported volunteers, staff, and supporters. This is a significant achievement for us to celebrate!
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## London Living Wage Award
We were honoured to receive the ‘Highly Commended’ award at this year's London Living Wage Business Awards. By paying the Living Wage, we can demonstrate that supporting the wellbeing of our staff is both achievable and essential. This accreditation has not only reinforced our commitment to staff wellbeing, but it has also helped to build trust with our supporters and strengthened our reputation as a disability-confident employer.
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## Beneficiaries
This year, despite the chilly winter, core attendance has significantly increased, with regular participants and returnees attending more frequently. We recorded 198 session attendees from November to January this year, compared to 149 during the same period last year.
The extremely hot and dry summer, with high temperatures, discouraged many from participating. The heatwave has posed challenges for some participants, as medications like antidepressants can reduce heat tolerance. In response, we have intensified our reminders about staying hydrated. We reassure participants that, during hotter weather, activities will be extra gentle and conducted in shaded areas. For those unable to attend, we consistently check in by phone and text as part of our befriending initiative.
Growing activities have primarily focused on planting and watering, with seed-sowing offered as a gentle option in the shade.
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Beneficiaries by gender
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Female
Male
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## Beneficiaries by age
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18-24
25-39
40-64
65+
Unknown
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Beneficiaries by ethnicity
Arab Asian/Asian British Black/African/Caribbean/Black British Mixed/Multiple ethnic groups South Asian White
Mental health needs supported
Anxiety and Isolation includes social anxiety, burnout, bereavement, social isolation Depression includes self harm, suicidal thoughts Other Psychosis and Complex Disorders includes voices, EUPD, bipolar Respite - Carers Severe or Terminal Illness Trauma includes PTSD, abuse
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## Impact
It's a sad reality that those facing mental health challenges often encounter barriers to accessing the care and support they need. We are dedicated to improving mental health and wellbeing through the power of nature. Our goal is to provide personalised and holistic support in a welcoming and inclusive environment. We strive to connect individuals with nature-based activities that promote wellbeing and utilise our green spaces for growth, creativity, and community engagement.
“With the skills and confidence I gained through MindFood, I recently started working at Kew Gardens. I'm truly grateful to have met MindFood. Thank you.'”
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Beneficiary numbers
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Befriended Delivered
Referred Attended Supported
336 Sessions 6
152+ Hours of days a week 2176 Average 5
Session (max 10) per
new referrals support and throughout attends session
safeguarding the year
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## Increased activity and greater independence
Increased activity and greater independence are essential for mental health, as they enhance mood, boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and provide a stronger sense of control and purpose in life.
As a direct result of attending MindFood courses, participants report:
- 100% closer connection to nature.
- 88% stronger sense of purpose.
- 94% are more active.
- 59% more likely to try volunteering
- 35% helped to return to employment.
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“Being outdoors in the
allotment, digging, and sowing
the seeds, it’s an accomplishment.
Also to be able to forage. The
herbs are little treats to take
home."
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## Reduced social isolation
Reduced social isolation is crucial for mental health because it lowers the risk of depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health issues. Social connections provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a buffer against stress.
Additionally, they promote cognitive health, help individuals cope with life changes, and serve as a protective factor for overall wellbeing.
As a direct result of our support, participants report:
- 88% are feeling less isolated.
- 76% closer connection to the community.
- 100% would recommend MindFood
“I have even started to interact with people at the allotment normally and don't have panic attacks like I used to.'”
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Increased health and wellbeing
Improved health and wellbeing are essential for mental health, because physical and mental health are interconnected. Good physical health enhances mental health by releasing "feel-good" hormones, reducing stress, and boosting self-esteem. When we prioritise our health and wellbeing, we build resilience to life's challenges, improve our overall quality of life, and are better equipped to function productively and enjoy our lives. As a direct result of our support, participants report:
- 100% say we have helped improve their mental health
- 94% feel happier.
- 88% feel calmer.
- 88% feel better able to manage their wellbeing.
- 88% feel fitter.
- 71% eat more healthily.
- 65% sleep better
- 47% have reduced medication
- 35% are seeing their health professional or GP less
“MindFood, a place where you can just' be yourself, even when things are not ok.”
We have adapted the five ways to well-being (give, keep learning, take notice, connect, and be active) to help teach people about their role in suicide prevention.
## Increased generosity
Acts of kindness also provide a sense of purpose, enhance self-esteem, and strengthen social connections, which all contribute to overall well-being. Increased generosity improves mental health because it triggers the release of "feel-good" brain chemicals, such as dopamine and serotonin, which reduce stress and anxiety while boosting happiness. Feedback from participants report:
88% feel more generous
## Renewed interest in learning new things
Having a strong interest in learning new things is both a result of and a contributor to good mental health. A positive mental state provides the motivation and focus needed for learning, while the act of learning itself enhances self-confidence, brain health, and overall satisfaction with life. Feedback from participants report:
- 88% are more interested in new things and learning
## Practicing mindfulness
## Feedback from participants report:
- 94% are more mindful and taking notice
- 88% feel more fulfilled generally
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Grow to share
At MindFood, we recognise the important connection between nature, food cultivation, and mental health. A nutritious diet can significantly enhance mental well-being by delivering essential nutrients, supporting the gut-brain axis, and regulating blood sugar levels and mood.
This understanding drives our "grow to share" approach, where participants contribute to and share the organically grown produce from our site.
In April, we hosted our annual "Grow Some, Share Some Day" at Horsenden Farm, where we potted young vegetable plants for our School Plants Giveaway.
## School Plants Giveaway
We invited schools from across the borough to collect these donations and delivered plants to local SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) schools.
Along with the plants, we provided leaflets for the teachers to take back for their notice boards.
Learning to grow food can help improve children's mental health. The physical act of gardening and spending time outdoors can boost mood, confidence, and self-esteem. Children who grow and eat their own nutritious food are likely to have better mental wellbeing because they have more fruits and vegetables in their diet.
Connecting people to nature and organically grown food is a crucial step toward climate action. If individuals don't see or appreciate nature, they are less likely to care enough to make a difference.
## That’s why MindFood:
**----- Start of picture text -----**
Grew Shared
Inspired
1000+ 30+
5000+
vegetable plants to local primary and
chldren to grow food
giveaway SEND schools
**----- End of picture text -----**
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **34** of **58**
## Performance
The UK fundraising sector is experiencing cautious optimism this year, despite significant financial challenges. While the total value of donations has increased, the number of individual donors is declining. To ensure MindFood’s future sustainability, we have embraced digital transformation and are working towards diversifying our income streams.
## Trustees
This year, we bid farewell to James Abery, who has been a dedicated Trustee since the early days of MindFood. We sincerely thank him for his support and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.
We are also excited to welcome our newly appointed Trustee, Katarzyna Rzepnikowska. She brings valuable financial experience and expertise as Treasurer to our team.
We express our deep gratitude to all our Trustees for their exceptional commitment to MindFood, as well as their sound advice, diligence, and guidance. Thanks to their leadership, MindFood has grown, evolved, and successfully overcome numerous challenges.
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Page **35** of **58**
## Digital transformation
We have enhanced our digital services and created robust governance structures to better understand and address our users' needs. Throughout the year, our audience has continued to grow. Our advice and tips for maintaining mental health are reaching more people than ever before. Currently, our newsletters are read by more than 1,407 individuals.
## Social media
We use social media platforms to promote MindFood and share our mission.
Followers Impressions Engagements 2,442 69,481 3,163
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## Health Determinants Research Collaboration
MindFood is a member of the Board of the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC). This five-year project, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), assists Ealing Council in making policy decisions based on community research led by peers. The project is conducted in collaboration with the Institute for Development Studies, as well as academics and public health specialists. It is one of only ten projects in the UK focused on addressing health inequalities, improving overall health and well-being, and promoting economic growth. Our consortium partners GOSAD, EHCVS (together with the Southall Community Alliance) play a vital role in this pioneering work at the community level, and we aim to represent their efforts and concerns at the Board level.
Health determinants are the foundational factors that influence our health and wellbeing. These include the conditions in which we are born, grow, live, work, and age. A thriving society needs these essential building blocks to be in place, which encompass access to quality education, stable housing, reliable jobs, and fair wages. Unfortunately, many communities lack one or more of these crucial elements and as a result their mental and physical health is at higher risk. The HDRC seeks to identify ways to address these gaps.
We aim to use research to help the council make informed decisions based on evidence. By working together with our participants, communities, and academic partners, we intend to learn how to promote healthier, thriving, and fairer communities. By addressing the factors that influence health, we strive to improve the lives of those suffering with their mental health.
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## Community Connections
We frequently receive invitations to share our expertise, as we are an important part of our community and have a wide reach. We are honoured to contribute to the amazing work happening in our community. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to:
## Ealing Council
Tony Clements, Chief Executive of Ealing Council for inviting MindFood to attend the Connected Communities launch event.
Peter George, Director of Economy and Sustainability and Somayya Yaqub, Head of Corporate Health and Safety for inviting us to the Council Employee Health and Wellbeing event.
Ann Waugh, Learning and Change Manager and Claire Laverty from The Shaw Trust for inviting us to WorkWell meetings, to help people back into work in a way that supports their mental health as part of the West London Alliance Initiative.
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Page **38** of **58**
The National Health Service (NHS)
- The Integrated Neighbourhood Team (INT) invited us to attend their Better Connected NHS and community resources event.
“I was very anxious. I was worried that I couldn’t cope doing the work or cope with other people. Now I always look forward to coming to MindFood.”
- NHS Healthier Lifestyles research team for a meeting to organise a workshop for participants.
- Sophie Beaumont, Delivery Manager (INT), for inviting us to be part of a project to formalise community mental health support for those on mental health waiting lists
- The Social Prescriber Family Link workers for coming to visit us onsite at Horsenden Farm to see the work that we do and promoting our services within their networks.
- The Cancer and Lifestyle Risk Symposium at UWL and the NHS Healthy Ealing Team for inviting us to speak about MindFood, nature and wellbeing.
- Climate Summit 24/9 and open day 26/9, also we partnered with the NHS Healthy Ealing team, with a stall and leafleting in the Broadway centre.
## Community groups and local organisations
- Nancy Vinciguerra, Business Support Officer for Parks and Open Spaces inviting us to discuss referrals for people requesting allotments to support their mental health.
- Laura Brown at Natural England for inviting us to be part of the Happier Outdoors Festival, resulting in two open MindFood sessions for April.
- The Media Trust for inviting us to be part of their Q&A at the Charity Films Event, celebrating ten years of charity filmmaking.
- Caroline Chapman, Director and Vicky Carter, Coordinator at Home-Start, for
“All of this makes for a truly unique space where you can share learning experiences with others who are also struggling with their mental health right now.”
- helping connect us and promoting our new
pilot project Nurturing Wellbeing, to new and expecting mothers.
BeFriend invited us to the Linked Minds Client meet-up and promoted our Five Ways to Wellbeing. It was a pleasure to share our participant-grown salads with all attendees.
GOSAD’s ESOL group, who came to visit us for a bespoke Growing Wellbeing session, it was wonderful to share free plants and seeds with the attendees.
Cape for inviting us to the Mental Health in Acton Health and Wellbeing Day.
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **39** of **58**
## Outreach
There has been a lot to celebrate this year at MindFood:
- We hosted the King’s Award Party, which was a great success, to celebrate all our participants who make MindFood the special place it is. Many local councillors attended the event, including Polly Knewstub (Healthy Equal Lives), Paul Driscoll (Climate Action and Sustainability), and MP Deirdre Costigan.
- We celebrated Thrive LDN’s Great Mental Health Day with Nosh and Natter sessions at both the Farm and at Cleveley.
- We hosted a stall for Apple Day, this annual event at the Farm, attracts over 1000 visitors.
- We held our annual World Mental Health Day open day. A Naturally Creative Art Show of participants' work We were also invited to Buckingham Palace for a garden party.
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## Employee Wellbeing Pact
Promoting good mental health is everyone's responsibility. That's why we are helping employers to Grow Resilience and Offer Wellbeing (GROW) within their organisations. Timely and practical support is essential for anyone struggling with their mental health, we provide this assistance to companies at no cost.
Special thanks to those who signed our GROW employee wellbeing pact, including:
- All Squared Accounts Ltd
Brompton Cycles
- Ealing Council Ealing Foodbank Greener Ealing
“‘I like coming to MindFood, it’s getting me ready for work, isn’t it?”
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## Thank you
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our supporters at MindFood. Your continued support makes our accomplishments possible. Because of you, MindFood's impact can grow to ensure that no one is deemed unreachable or faces mental health challenges alone.
## **We wouldn’t be here without you.**
In a year when economic conditions and rising inflation have posed challenges for everyone, we are especially grateful for the generosity of our valued funders, supporters, and volunteers. You are truly at the heart of who we are and what we can achieve.
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **42** of **58**
## Individual supporters
We sincerely appreciate everyone who has supported MindFood during the past year, whether through financial donations or by generously volunteering their time. Your support is vital.
## Sponsored challenges
Huge congratulations to Petko Petkoff, who ran the Ealing Half Marathon to raise funds for MindFood. Heroically completing the challenge and raising a record amount for MindFood! Your dedication and spirit inspire us all. Thank you for your incredible efforts!
## Lottery players
Thank you to all our MindFood Weekly Lottery players! Participating in our lottery is about more than just winning cash prizes each week; it’s about raising vital funds for our work and increasing awareness. We appreciate your support and wish you all the best of luck with your tickets!
## Online shoppers
Thank you to all our supporters who have signed up for easyfundraising. Every time you shop online or in-store, we receive a donation. We truly appreciate your continued support!
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **43** of **58**
## Legacies and gifts in memory
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated in memory of a loved one and to those who have expressed their intention to leave a gift to MindFood in their Will.
Each of us is living our own legacy every day through our actions and interactions. Remember to give your time and presence to the things you care about, including family and friends. The love and support you provide are among the most cherished legacies.
Legacies have the power to change lives for years to come, and we are deeply grateful to our supporters who choose to remember us with a gift in their Will.
Your memory will live on through the transformative impact your contributions make possible.
Ultimately, creating a meaningful legacy is about living a life that reflects what matters most to you and making a positive impact on the world and in the lives of others.
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## Corporate partnerships
We are grateful to all our corporate supporters for their invaluable financial support, valuable in-kind resources, increased visibility, and access to new networks and expertise.
Our work wouldn’t be possible without your support.
Special thanks to:
- Brompton Cycles
- Co-op
- Chiswick House
- Greener Ealing
- Grove End Housing
- Latimer by Clarion Housing Group
- London Living Wage
- Media Trust
- Mood Mental Health Training
- Tandem Support
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025
Page **45** of **58**
## Our funders
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our funders for their generous donations. Your investment in our projects and growth areas has been crucial in helping us achieve our planned activities and goals this year. We sincerely could not have accomplished this without your ongoing support. We are committed to maintaining the highest levels of integrity in our fundraising and delivery practices. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission.
The Batchworth Trust
Chapman Charitable Trust
City Bridge Foundation
The D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust
Ealing and Hounslow Community Voluntary Service (EHCVS) Freshwater Foundation
Golden Opportunity Skills and Development (GOSAD)
London Borough of Ealing
London Catalyst
Rethink
St Paul's Mission
The National Lottery
Walter Lees Foundation
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **46** of **58**
## Financial review
## Overview
In 2024 and 2025, MindFood achieved another successful year. We secured funding from the National Lottery, which will provide us with income for the next five years. Additionally, we received a three-year grant from London Catalyst and experienced growth in unrestricted income from various sources. One of our strategic goals is to pursue long-term funding, which will help us strengthen our infrastructure and build a stable foundation for developing our services. Although the fundraising environment remains challenging, we are confident that MindFood can demonstrate high-quality governance, financial control, and effectiveness to potential funders. Winning the King's Award further emphasises our commitment to our beneficiaries.
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **47** of **58**
## Independent examiner’s report to the Trustees
I report to the charity Trustees on my examination on the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 October 2025 which are set out on pages 47 to 58.
## Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity’s Trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’). I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act, and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
## Independent examiner’s statement
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
1. Accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act.
2. The accounts do not accord with those records; or
3. The accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
## Siobhan Glenister
David Howard, 5 The Square, Bagshot, GU19 5AX
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **48** of **58**
## Statement of financial activities
For the year ended 31[st ] October 2025
||**Notes**|**Unrestricted**|**Designated**|**Restricted**|**Year**
**ended**
**31-10-**
**2025**
**Total**|**Year**
**ended**
**31-10-**
**2024**
**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**Income**|||||||
|Sales|5|£4,951|£0|£0|£4,951|£3,129|
|Grants|4|£11,033|£0|£54,613|£65,646|£96,933|
|Donations|4|£28,006|£0|£6,746|£34,752|£13,020|
|Other income|5|£110|£0|£0|£110|£86|
|**Total income**||**£44,100**|**£0**|**£61,359**|**£105,459**|**£113,169**|
||||||||
|**Expenditure**|||||||
|**Costs of delivery**|||||||
|Equipment||£1,088|£0|£2,813|£3,901|£3,910|
|Ancillary||£4,196|£0|£3,423|£7,619|£6,858|
|Wages||£20,153|£0|£48,251|£68,404|£69,016|
|**Charitable Activities**|||||||
|Rent and insurance||£568|£0|£446|£1,014|£896|
|Computer software and
subscriptions||£608|£0|£0|£608|£370|
|Accountancy and
bookkeeping fees||£2,495|£0|£2,975|£5,470|£4,740|
|Marketing, events and
professional fees||£325|£0|£1,229|£1,554|£240|
|Telecommunications||£0|£0|£831|£831|£748|
|Employee wages||£6,147|£0|£5,460|£11,607|£5,133|
|Social security costs||£0|£0|£0|£0|£0|
|Staff pension costs||£792|£0|£1,608|£2,400|£2,218|
|Training||£0|£0|£1,445|£1,445|£624|
|**Other**|||||||
|Depreciation||£469|£0|£0|£469|£739|
|Amortisation||£0|£2,750|£0|£2,750|£2,750|
|Bank charges||£0|£0|£91|£91|£99|
|**Total expenditure**||**£36,842**|**£2,750**|**£68,572**|**£108,164**|**£98,339**|
||||||||
|Net income (expenditure)||£7,258|£(2,750)|£(7,213)|£(2,705)|£14,830|
|Transfers between funds||£0|£0|£0|£0|£0|
|Net movement in funds||£7,258|£(2,750)|£(7,213)|£(2,705)|£14,830|
||||||||
|**Reconciliation of funds**|||||||
|Total funds brought forward||£25,392|£20,625|£8,463|£54,480|£39,650|
|Total funds carried forward||£32,650|£17,875|£1,250|£51,775|£54,480|
||||||||
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **49** of **58**
## Balance Sheet
As of 31[st] October 2025
|Balance Sheet
As of 31stOctober 2025||||
|---|---|---|---|
||**Notes**|**31-10-2025**|**31-10-2024**|
|**Fixed assets**||||
|Tangible fixed assets|7|£1,272|£1,741|
|Intangible fixed assets|8|£17,875|£20,625|
|**Net fixed assets**||£19,147|£22,366|
|||||
|**Current assets**||||
|Debtors and prepayments|9|£8,017|£5,589|
|Petty cash and cash at bank||£51,497|£42,041|
|Creditors due within one year|10|£(26,886)|£(15,516)|
|**Net current assets**||£32,628|£32,114|
|**Total assets less liabilities**||£51,775|£54,480|
|||||
|**Charity funds**||||
|Unrestricted general account|11|£32,650|£25,392|
|Designated funds|11|£17,875|£20,625|
|Restricted funds|11|£1,250|£8,463|
|**Total charity funds**||£51,775|£54,480|
The financial statements were approved and signed by the Trustees and authorised for issue on
## **Katarzyna Rzepnikowska**
Company Number: CE019078
Charity Number: 1185639
The notes on pages 50-57 form part of these accounts.
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **50** of **58**
## Notes to the financial statements
For the year ended 31 October 2025.
## 1. Accounting Policies
Mindfood CIO is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation in England and Wales. The address of the registered office is given in the charity information on page 2 of these financial statements. The nature of the charity’s operations and principal activities are detailed within trustees annual report.
The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.
The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £.
The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated.
## a) Funds
Unrestricted funds 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.
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.
Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the trustees have decided, at their discretion, to set aside to use for a specific purpose.
## b) Income recognition
All income is included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.
For donations to be recognised the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. If there are conditions attached to the donation and this requires a level of performance before entitlement can be obtained then income is deferred until those conditions are fully met or the fulfilment of those conditions is within the control of the charity and it is probable that they will be fulfilled.
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Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable, it can be measured reliably and the charity has control over the item. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity, for example the amount the charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.
No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102).
Where practicable, gifts in kind donated for distribution to the beneficiaries of the charity are included in stock and donations in the financial statements upon receipt. If it is impracticable to assess the fair value at receipt or if the costs to undertake such a valuation outweigh any benefits, then the fair value is recognised as a component of donations when it is distributed and an equivalent amount recognised as charitable expenditure.
Gifts in kind donated for resale are included at fair value, being the expected proceeds from sale less the expected costs of sale. Where estimating the fair value is practicable upon receipt it is recognised in stock and ‘Income from other trading activities’. Upon sale, the value of the stock is charged against ‘Income from other trading activities’ and the proceeds are recognised as ‘Income from other trading activities’. Where it is impracticable to fair value the items due to the volume of low value items they are not recognised in the financial statements until they are sold. This income is recognised within ‘Income from other trading activities’.
Fixed asset gifts in kind are recognised when receivable and are included at fair value. They are not deferred over the life of the asset.
For legacies, entitlement is the earlier of the charity being notified of an impending distribution or the legacy being received. At this point income is recognised. On occasion legacies will be notified to the charity however it is not possible to measure the amount expected to be distributed. On these occasions, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset and disclosed.
Income from trading activities includes income earned from fundraising events and trading activities to raise funds for the charity. Income is received in exchange for supplying goods and services in order to raise funds and is recognised when entitlement has occurred.
Investment income is earned through holding assets for investment purposes such as shares and property. It includes dividends, interest and rent. Where it is not practicable to identify investment management costs incurred within a scheme with reasonable accuracy the investment income is reported net of these costs. It is included when the amount can be measured reliably. Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method and dividend and rent income is recognised as the charity’s right to receive payment is established.
## c) Expenditure recognition
All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **52** of **58**
required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. It is categorised under the following headings:
Costs of raising funds;
Expenditure on charitable activities; and
Other expenditure represents those items not falling into the categories above.
Irrecoverable VAT is charged as an expense against the activity for which expenditure arose.
- d) Support costs allocation
Support costs are those that assist the work of the charity but do not directly represent charitable activities and include office costs and governance costs. They are incurred directly in support of expenditure on the objects of the charity and include project management carried out at Headquarters. Where support costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to cost of raising funds and expenditure on charitable activities on a basis consistent with use of the resources.
Fundraising costs are those incurred in seeking voluntary contributions and do not include the costs of disseminating information in support of the charitable activities.
- e) Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Cost includes costs directly attributable to making the asset capable of operating as intended.
Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset on a systematic basis over its expected useful life as follows:
Equipment, fixtures and fittings 20% straight line
IT Equipment 20% straight line
- f) Intangible fixed assets
Intangible assets acquired separately from the charity are recognised at cost and are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
Amortisation is recognised so as to write off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:
- Website 10% straight line
- g) Debtors and creditors receivable/payable within one year
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Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment of debtors are recognised in expenditure.
## h) Impairment
Assets not measured at fair value are reviewed for any indication that the asset may be impaired at each balance sheet date. If such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, or the asset’s cash generating unit, is estimated and compared to the carrying amount. Where the carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss.
## 2. Independent examiner’s remuneration
The independent examiners remuneration amounts to an independent examination fee of £975 (2024: £925).
## 3. Trustees’ and key management personnel remuneration and expenses
The trustees neither received nor waived any remuneration during the year (2024-25: £nil), in their capacity as trustees.
## 4. Voluntary income
||**Unrestricted**|**Designated**|**Restricted**|**31-10-2025**|**31-10-2024**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Grants|£11,033|£0|£54,614|£65,646|£96,933|
|Donations and legacies|£28,006|£0|£6,746|£34,752|£13,020|
|**Total**|**£39,039**|**£0**|**£61,360**|**£100,398**|**£109,953**|
## 5. Other income
|5. Other income||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||**Unrestricted**|**Designated**|**Restricted**|
**31-10-2025**|**31-10-2024**|
|Sales|£4,951|
£0|£0|
£4,951|£3,129|
|Bank interest received|£110|
£0|£0|
£110|£86|
|**Total**|**£5,061**|
**£0**|**£0**|
**£5,061**|**£3,215**|
## 6. Employees
No employee earned £60,000 or more.
|No employee earned £60,000 or more.|||
|---|---|---|
|**Employees**|**31-10-2025**|**31-10-2024**|
|Averagemonthlynumberofemployees|9|9|
|Employee costs:|||
|Wages|£80,011|£74,148|
|Social security|£0|0|
|Pension|£2,400|£2,218|
|**Total**|**£82,411**|**£76,366**|
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025
Page **54** of **58**
## 7. Tangible fixed assets
||**Equipment, fixtures**
**and fittings**|**IT Equipment**|**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|
|**Cost**||||
|At 1stNovember 2024|£2,000|£2,346|£4,346|
|Additions||||
|Disposals||||
|At 31 October 2025|£2,000|£2,346|£4,346|
|**Depreciation**||||
|At 1stNovember 2024|£2,000|£605|£2,605|
|Charge for the year||£469|£469|
|Disposals||||
|At 31 October 2025|£2,000|£1,074|£3,074|
|**Net book Value**||||
|At 31 October 2024|£0|£1,741|£1,741|
|At 31 October 2025|£0|£1,272|£1,272|
## 8. Intangible fixed assets
|8. Intangible fixed assets|||
|---|---|---|
||**Website***|**Total**|
|**Cost**|||
|At 1stNovember 2024|£27,500|£27,500|
|Additions|£0|£0|
|Disposals|£0|£0|
|At 31 October 2025|£27,500|£27,500|
|**Amortisation**|||
|At 1stNovember 2024|£6,875|£6,875|
|Charge for the year|£2,750|£2,750|
|Disposals|£0|£0|
|At 31 October 2025|£9,625|£9,625|
|**Net book Value**|||
|At 31 October 2024|**£20,625**|**£20,625**|
|At 31 October 2025|**£17,875**|**£17,875**|
*The charity received a donated website for free. The value of this website was the cost of three similar quotes obtained. The trustees have allocated the donation to a designated reserve and the corresponding amortisation will be charged to this reserve.
## 9. Debtors
|9. Debtors|||
|---|---|---|
||**31-10-25**|
**31-10-24**|
|Trade debtors|£3,075|£4,305|
|Accrued income|£3,000|-|
|Prepayments|£1,942|£1,284|
|**Total**|**£8,017**|**£5,589**|
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **55** of **58**
## 10. Creditors
|10. Creditors|||
|---|---|---|
||**31-10-25**|**31-10-24**|
|Trade Creditors|£1,448|£1,600|
|Deferred Income|£22,987|£11,722|
|Accruals|£1,263|£1,143|
|Other Creditors|£1,188|£1,051|
|**Total**|**£26,886**|**£15,516**|
## 11. Funds reconciliation
## Current Year Funds Reconciliation
||**Balance at 1**
**November**
**2024**|**Income**|**Expenditure**|**Transfers**|**Balance at**
**31 October**
**2025**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Restricted|£8,463|£61,359|£(68,572)|£0|£1,250|
|Designated|£20,625|£0|£(2,750)|£0|£17,875|
|Unrestricted|£25,392|£44,100|£(36,842)|£0|£32,650|
|**Total**|**£54,480**|**£105,459**|**£108,164)**|**£0**|**£51,775**|
## Prior Year Comparison
||**Balance at 1**
**November**
**2023**|**Income**|**Expenditure**|**Transfers**|**Balance at**
**31 October**
**2024**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|Restricted|£479|£101,857|£(93,873)|£0|
£8,463|
|Designated|£23,375|£0|£(2,750)|£0|
£20,625|
|Unrestricted|£15,796|£11,311|£(1,716)|£0|
£25,392|
|**Total**|**£39,650**|**£113,169**|**£(98,339)**|**£0**|
**£54,480**|
## 12. Analysis of net assets between funds
Current Year Analysis of Net Assets
||**General**
**Unrestricted**|**Designated**
**funds**|**Restricted**
**funds**|**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|Fixed assets|£1,272|£17,875|£0|£19,147|
|Current assets|£31,378||£1,250|£32,628|
|**Total**|**£32,650**|**£17,875**|**£1,250**|**£51,775**|
## Prior Year Comparison
||**General**
**Unrestricted**|**Designated**
**funds**|**Restricted**
**funds**|**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|Fixed assets|£1,741|£20,625|-|£22,366|
|Current assets|£23,651|-|£8,463|£32,114|
|**Total**|**£25,392**|**£20,625**|**£8,463**|**£54,480**|
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025
Page **56** of **58**
## 13. Related party transactions
There were no other related party transactions in the year or in the prior year.
## 14. Analysis of funds year ended 2024
||**Notes**|**Unrestricted**|**Designated**|**Restricted**|**Total**||**Year**
**31/10/2023**
**Total**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|**Income**||||||||
|Sales|5|£3,129||£0|£3,129||£5,117|
|Grants|4|£3,900||£93,033|£96,933||£59,032|
|Donations|4|£4,196||£8,824|£13,020||£1,083|
|Other income|5|£86||£0|£86||£60|
|Transfer in|||||||£0|
|**Total income**||**£11,311**||**£101,857**|**£113,169**||**£65,291**|
|**Expenditure**||||||||
|**Costs of delivery**||||||||
|Equipment||£0||£3,910|£3,910||£1,892|
|Ancillary||£0||£6,858|£6,858||£1,670|
|Wages||£1,666||£67,350|£69,016||£56,871|
|Charitable activities||||||||
|Rent and insurance||£0||£896|£896||£868|
|Computer software and
Subscriptions||£0||£370|£370||£1,752|
|Accountancy fees||£0||£4,740|£4,740||£5,849|
|Professional fees||£0||£240|£240||£240|
|Telecommunications||£0||£748|£748||£792|
|Employee wages||£0||£5,133|£5,133||£6,698|
|Social security costs||£0||||||
|Staff pension costs||£50||£2,168|£2,218||£1,870|
|Recruitment & training costs||£0||£624|£624||£0|
|**Other**||||||||
|Depreciation||£0|£0|£739|£739||£624|
|Amortisation||£0|£2,750|£0|£2,750||£2,750|
|Bank charges||£0|£0|£99|£99||£107|
|**Total expenditure**||**£1,716**|**£2,750**|**£93,873**|**£98,339**||**£81,981**|
|||||||||
|Net income/(expenditure)||£9,595|£(2,750)|£7,985|£14,830||£(16,690)|
|Transfers between funds||£0|£0|£0|£0||£0|
|Net movement in funds||£9,595|£(2,750)|£7,985|£14,830||£(16,690)|
|Reconciliation of funds||||||||
|Total funds brought forward||£15,796|£23,375|£479|£39,650||£56,340|
|Total funds carried forward||£25,392|£20,625|£8,463|£54,480||£39,650|
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **57** of **58**
15. Declarations
The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.
Signed on behalf of the charity trustees
Signature(s) Full name(s) Stephen Macallister Position (e.g. Chair, etc.) Chair Date 24th July 2026
MindFood - Trustees’ Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 October 2025 Page **58** of **58**