CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Independent examiner's report on the accounts Section A Independent Examiner's Report Report to the trusteesl members of Stepway On accounts for the year ended 31 March 2025 Charity no {if any) 1186465 Set out on pages 1-23 I report lo the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity ("the Trust") for the year ended 31 March 2023. Responsibilitles and As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation basis of report of the accounts in accordance with Ihe requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('Ihe Act"). I report in respect of my examination of Ihe Trust's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination. I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under sedion 14515)(b) of the Act. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in conneclion with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect". accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or the accounts do not accord with the accounting records Independent examiner's statement I have no concems and have Come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: Date: Gi Name: Tony Archer Relevant professional qualification{s) or body lif any): Address: Ormerod Rutter Limited The Oakley, Kiddemiinster Road, Droitwich WR9 9AY
CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENG0 ANO WALES Stepway 1186465 Receipts and payments accounts CC16a For the period 01104024 3110312025 To Section A Receipt5 and payments Unrestricted funds Restricted fuJ)d$ Endowment funds Total fund$ La$t yèar to thE nearest to tho nearest£ tothe n4ar•st£ toth• n•ar4$t£ toth9 no•r•st£ Al Recelpts DoTralrons gifts GDvefflrneDlgranls her 9eneral grts Event B8nk inleresl Refunds si8pNayTt8ding InrThne 8,153 6.153 41,854 93.674 16,850 1,063 1,OQO 78N68 25,370 41,B54 85.263 1Q,411 16.050 Jo 630 Sub total(Gross income forAR) A2 As2et and investment Sales. (see tsblel. 34.044 125,117 159,161 114,144 Sub total 34.044 125,117 114.144 A3 Payments Stsging fundraisng events Advsrtising Wages Repairs ¥nd ThaiDlenance Communlty p R6tre$hmeni$ Travd expenses Rent 14009 14,009 688 92,91U 16.398 68B 92.918 95.263 8,952 633 633 61 2,009 7.520 1,321 126 3,695 1,083 5.066 61 1.326 201 2,887 1.796 701 2,560 829 4,480 403 2,454 2,009 7.$20 1,321 126 3,696 1,076 Insuranc Telpphor Pnnling and stallone Leg and Wofeson¥t CoMpereXp6ne$ Audilfees nJry e¥p8n$88 5.066 178 2.946 1,212 368 1,212 Sub total 34.804 102,834 137,638 159,54 A4 Asset and Inveslrnent purchases, See table Sub total 34,804 102,834 137,838 139,549 Net of re¢eipts/(paym•nts) AS Transfers between fun¢ts A6 ¢a$h fund$ last year end Cash funds this year end 760 22,2B3 21.523 25.405 6,019 5,258 18.658 40.942 24.677 46,200 50.082 24,677 CCXX R1 a¢unIS ISS) 2210112026
Sociion B Statement of assets and liabilities ai the end of the period B1 Cash lunds 11.361 I7.& 300 Totsl c•sh funds IB.881 27.519 Unrnstrlcl•d Restrlcted nds funds tony•rMI£ Endo?nt nd5 82 Other mon•tary ass•ts F¥Ad lo¥Jhlch ¢urr•r•lvalue B3 lTrweslThnt a38ets Fund tQT•hl 84 Assets retalned for the ch#rt•v' li Fund IoTMhith B5 U•WI•S al thetsuslEe5 XX R2 ISSI
CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Trustees, Annual Report for the period From 1 April 2024 To 31 March 2025 Charity name: STEPWAY CIO Charity registration number: 1186465 Objectives and Activities SORP refwence Summary of the purposes of the charity as set out in its governing document Para 1.17 To promote and improve mental health awareness and suicide reduction among veterans and family members of the British armed forces living in England and Wales, for the public benefit by preventing them from becoming socially excluded. Relieving the dynamic needs with the provision of support services, events, activities and courses, which promote a sense of belon and ur ose in civilian life. STEPWAY continues to deliver its three main services.. Summary ofthe main activities in relation to those purposes for the public benefit, in particular, the activities, projects or services identified in the accounts. Para 1.17 and 1.19 1. 7-Step Civilian Skills Program: A comprehensive course covering mental health awareness, civilian life skills, and pathways to employment or education. 2. Banter and Brew Sessions: A trademarked drop-in service offering free breakfast, activities, and opportunities for social interaction and mental health support. 3. Community Projects: Providing activities such as gardening, horticultural therapy, beekeeping. bushcraft, and archery, benefiting the veteran and wider community across Worcestershire and the West Midlands.
Statement confirming whether the trustees have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on ublic benefit Para 1.18 The Trustees of STEPWAY CIO have had regard to the guidance issued by the Charity Commission on public benefit. Additional information {optional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about.. SORP referen STEPWAY CIO does not currently operate as a grant-making charity. Instead, the organisation focuses on directly delivering services and programs to support veterans and their families, in line with its mission. Policy on grant making Para 1.38 If grant-making becomes a part of STEPWAY'S activities in the future, the Trustees would establish clear criteria and a transparent prOsS for assessing applications. This process would ensure that all grants are aligned with the charity's objectives of improving mental health awareness, reducing social exclusion, and supporting the dynamic needs of veterans and their families. The Trustees would also ensure compliance with Charity Commission guidelines on grant-making. STEPWAY CIO does not currently engage in social investments or program-related investments. The charity's focus remains on delivering direct services and projects that support veterans and their families. Policy on social investment including program related investment Para 1.38 Should social investment opportunrties arise in the future, the Trustees would review these opportunities in line with the charity's objectives and regulatory guidance. Any decision would be made with due diligence to ensure alignment with STEPWAY'S mission to promote mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and community integration. Volunteers remain a cornerstone of the charity's Sucss. With 35 active volunteers contributin over 5,000 Para 1.38
Contribution made by volunteers hours annually, their dedication directly impacts the well-being of the veteran community. Future Plans: STEPWAY CIO aims to expand its reach by opening new community hubs in other neighbouring Counties and addressing gaps in veteran support services across neighbouring counties. Plans are also underway to increase the scope of the 7-Step Civilian Skills Program to include digital literacy modules. Other Challenges: The charity faces challenges in securing long-term funding to sustain and expand its services. Increased demand for support, especially from veterans in the justice system, has highlighted the need for additional resources. Collaborations: STEPWAY is fostering new partnerships with organisations such as Malvern Hills District Council and wOrster City Council to address broader community needs. The charity also collaborates with local businesses to offer work plaMentS for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Recognition: STEPWAY'S work continues to receive recognition, such as becoming Inclusive Worcestershire Leaders and earning the ERS Gold Award. These accolades reflect the charity's commitment to inclusivity and excellence in supporting veterans. Achievements and Performance SORP referen
Securing the Lease for LINK Community Hub: STEPWAY gained a five-year lease from Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust to operate the LINK Community Hub, further enhancing community support. Membership in COBSEO and Justice Cluster Partnership: The charity became a full member of COBSEO and is now part of the Justi Cluster. STEPWAY works alongside Op- Nova. providing in-reach support across six prisons and extending assistan to family members of veterans in custody. Enhanced Mental Health Support: STEPWAY is now classified as secondary tnental health support for veterans and their families, offering tsilored assistance irrespective of background or circumstances. Expanding Services: Supported over 120 veterans in the justi system during this period. Assisted 363 direct beneficiaries and over 500 indirect beneficiaries. Inclusive Worcestershire Leaders: STEPWAY staff have been recognised as leaders in inclusivity. Most staff members are trained by Public Health in suicide prevention and wear the Orange Button as a visible symbol of support. Collaborative Outreach Programs: Partnering with the National Probation Service, DWP, NHS (Primary Care Network), and housing organisations, STEPWAY addresses dynamic client needs comprehensively. 7. Growth in Staffing and Volunteering: 5 employees and 35 volunteers now work across Worcestershire and the West Midlands. 8. Community and Socletal Im act: sin its foundin Summary of the main achievements of the charity, identifying the difference the charity's work has made to the circumstances of its beneficiaries and any wider benefits to society as a whole. Para 1.20
2019, STEPWAY has saved relationships, improved mental well-being, and saved lives. 9. Educational Partnerships: STEPWAY has hosted 5 student plaMentS from the University of Worcester and HOW College at the LINK Community Hub, providing valuable hands-on experience and contributing to the charity's community initiatives. Additional information (optional You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about.. Expansion of Services: STEPWAY achieved its goal of increasing outreach by securing the lease for the LINK Community Hub and becoming part of the COBSEO Justice Cluster. This enabled the charity to provide in-reach support across six prisons and assistance to family members of veterans. Achievements against objectives set Para 1.41 Direct and Indirect Beneficiaries: The charity supported 363 direct beneficiaries and over 500 indirect beneficiaries during the reporting period, meeting its objective of broadening its impact. Enhanced Mental Health Support: STEPWAY is now recognised as a secondary mental health support provider for veterans and their families, aligning with its mission to improve mental health awareness and reduce social exclusion. Increased Community Engagement: The introduction of student placements from the University of Worcester and HOW College at the LINK Community Hub strengthened community ties and expanded educational opportunities.
Volunteer and Staff Development: The charity increased its team to 5 employees and 35 volunteers, exceeding targels for capacity- building and support infrastructure. Secured Grants: STEPWAY successfully secured funding from key Sour$, including the Amied Forces Covenant Trust Fund, Veterans Foundation, and local councils {Sandwell and Worcester), meeting its fundraising objectives to sustain core services and projects. Performance of fundraising activities against objectives set Para 1.41 New Fundraising Partnerships: The charity fostered collaborations with organisations such as Malvern Hills District Council and Worcester City Council to support ongoing and future projects, enhancing its funding streams. Community Engagement: Local fundraising efforts, including events and JustGiving campaigns, raised additional funds, demonstrating strong community support and exceeding initial expectations. Targeted Grant Applications: STEPWAY applied for specific grants, such as the Worcestershire Community Foundation and the Fuel Poverty Fund, aligning funding efforts with identified needs, including the development of the LINK Community Hub and Warm Hub initiatives. Support for Program Expansion: Fundraising activities supported Ihe growth of STEPWAY'S programs, enabling the continuation of the 7- Step Civilian Skills Program and the development of new community projects across Worcestershire and the West Midlands. STEPWAY CIO dS not currently engage in financial or program-related investments. The charity's focus remains on deliverin direct seNices Investment performan ainst ob'ectives Para 1.41
and projects aligned with its mission to support veterans and their families. If investment opportunities arise in the future, the Trustees will establish appropriate policies to ensure alignment with the charity's objectives and compliance with regulatory standards. Performance against these objectives would then be monitored and reported transparently. Community Recognition: STEPWAY has gained recognition for its impact on veterans, mental health and community engagement, including being acknowledged as Inclusive Worcestershire Leaders and earning the ERS Gold Award for its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. Other Impactful Collaborations: The charity continues to strengthen partnerships with organisations such as Op-courage NHS, Op-Nova, and the Primary Care Network. These collaborations have enabled STEPWAY to provide comprehensive support services for veterans and their families. Focus on Sustainability: STEPWAY has strategically invested in developing infrastructure, such as the LINK Community Hub, to provide a sustainable base for delivering its programs and expanding community outreach. Volunteer Contributions: Volunteers have contributed over 5,000 hours across projects, reflecting the charity's strong community involvement and the dedication of its supporters. Life-saving Impact: Since its founding in 2019, STEPWAY has not only improved relationships and mental well-being but has also saved lives, solidi its role as a
vital resource for veterans and their families. Financial Review Review of the charity's financial position at the end of the eriod Statement explaining the policy for holding reserves stating why they are held Para 1.21 See attached financial report Para 1.22 STEPWAY CIO, held unrestricted reseNes of £19k at the year end. Trustees consider this appropriate given the charity's current growth phase, during which unrestricted funds are actively applied to the delivery and expansion of core services, including the 7-Step Civilian Skills Program, Banter and Brew sessions, and community projects. The Trustees recognise the importance of establishing reserves in the future to ensure financial stability and continuity of services. A reserves policy will be developed as the charity's income grows, prioritising.. 1. Emergency Funding: To maintain essential operations in unforeseen circumstances. 2. Service Sustainability: To support long-term planning and program development. 3. Future Opportunities: To seize strategic opportunities that align with STEPWAY'S mission. Amount of reserves held Reasons for holding zero reserves Details of fund materially in deficit Para 1.22 Para 1.22 £19k Charity still in growth stages Para 1.24 STEPWAY CIO does not have any funds in deficit. The charity operates within its financial means, ensuring that all expenditures are aligned with available funding. Any potential shortfalls are managed proactively through fundraising efforts and careful financial lannin STEPWAY CIO does not currently face any uncertainties about its ability to continue as a going concern. The charity has a strong track record of securin fundin from reliable sources, Explanation of any uncertainties about the charity continuing as a going concern Para 1.23
including grants, donations, and partnerships, which ensures the sustainability of its core services and projects. The Trustees are confident in the charity's financial management and strategic planning, which support its ongoing operations and future growth. Regular monitoring of income and expenditure, along with diversified funding streams, further mitigates any potential risks to its continuity. Additional infomlation (optional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about= Grants: The charity's principal sources of funds (including any fundraising) Amed Forces Covenant Trust Fund Para 1.47 Veterans Foundation Local Councils, including Sandwell and wOrster Heart of England, restricted and used accordingly Donations: Individual and corporate donations through platforms such as JustGiving. Fundraising Activities: Community fundraising events, including sponsored activities and local campaigns. Partnership Contributions: Collaborative funding from organisations like Op-courage NHS and the Primary Care Neorff. Other Funding Initiatives: Localised fundraising efforts to su orts ecific ro ects, such as
the LINK Community Hub and the Warm Hub initiative. STEPWAY CIO does not currently hold or manage financial investments, as its focus remains on directly delivering services and projects that support veterans and their families. The charity prioritises allocating funds to its core programs to maximise immediate impact. Investment policy and objectives including any social investment policy adopted Para 1.46 If investment opportunities arise in the future, the Trustees will develop formal investment policy to ensure any investments align with the charity's objectives. This policy would include: 1. Ethical Investments: Ensuring funds are invested in ways that reflect the charity's values and mission. 2. Risk Management: Balancing potential returns with a low-risk approach to safeguard financial stability. 3. Social Investment Opportunities: Considering program-related investments that directly benefit veterans and their families or align with STEPWAY'S goals. The Trustees are committed to ensuring that all investments support the lon9- term sustainability of the charity and its mission STEPWAY CIO has identified the following principal risks and the measures in Pla to mitigate them: A description of the principal risks facing the charity Para 1.46 Funding Sustainability: Risk.. Relian on external grants and fundraising efforts creates a potential risk of insufficient funding to sustain core services. Mitigation: The charity diversifies its income streams throu rants, donations,
and fundraising events and develops strategic partnerships to secure stable funding. Increased Demand for Services: Risk: Rising demand for support services, particularly from veterans in the justice system, may exceed the charity's capacity. Mitigation: STEPWAY continuously seeks to recruit and train volunteers, build staff capacity, and apply for additional funding to meet demand. Staff and Volunteer Retention: Risk: Difficulty retaining skilled staff and volunteers could impact SeiCe delivery. Ivlitigatlon: The charity provides comprehensive training, regular support, and recognition to ensure a motivated team. External Factors: Risk: Economic instability or changes in government funding priorities could reduce available resources. Mitigation: STEPWAY closely monitors external trends and maintains flexible operational strategies to adapt to changing circumstances. Complianca and Safeguarding: Risk: Failure to comply with regulatory requirements or address safeguarding concerns could hami
beneficiaries and the charity's reputation. Mitigation: Robust policies, regular training, and a strong governan framework ensure compliance and uphold safeguarding standards. The Trustees regularly review these risks and implement proactive strategies to mitigate their impact. ensuring the charity's long-term sustainability and effectiveness. Recognition and Awards: STEPWAY CIO has been recognised as a leader in veteran support, earning accolades such as the ERS Gold Award and being named Inclusive Worcestershire Leaders. These achievements reflect the charity's commitment to inclusivity and excellence. Other Collaboration and Partnerships: The charity continues to strengthen its partnerships with organisations such as Op-courage NHS, Op- Nova, and the Primary Care NeOrk. These collaborations enable a holistic approach to supporting veterans and their families. Future Plans: STEPWAY plans to expand its reach into neighbouring counties and develop additional services at the LINK Community Hub, including new community projects and educational opportunities. Volunteer Impact: Volunteers remain at the heart of STEPWAY'S operations, contributing over 5,000 hours annually. Their dedication has been instrumental in delivering the charity's mission and supporting beneficiaries. Life-saving Work: Since its ince tion, STEPWAY has
saved lives, improved mental well- being, and strengthened relationships, demonstrating its vital role in the veteran community. Structure, Governance and Management Description of charity's trusts.. Type of governing document cio Para 1.25 Foundational iarlDrl How is the charity constituted? Para 1.25 cio ?orated Trustee selection methods including details of any constitutional provisions e.g. election to post or name of any person or body entitled to appoint one or more trustees Para 1.25 Trustees for STEPWAY CIO are selected in accordance with the charity's governing document. The selection process includes the following steps- 1. Nomination and Agreement: New trustees are nominated and appointed through an agreement with the existing Board of Trustees, the CEO, and the Operations Director. 2. Skills and Expertise Assessment: Candidates are assessed for their skills, experience, and alignment with the charity's objectives. This ensures a balanced and capable Board to oversee STEPWAY'S governance and strategic direction. 3. Diversity and Inclusion: STEPWAY prioritises diversity and inclusivity in its trustee appointments to ensure representation that reflects the communities it serves. 4. Induction and Training: All new trustees undergo an induction pro$$, which includes training on financial controls, fundraising policies, data protection, safeguarding, and an overview of the charit
core services, such as the 7- Step Civilian Skills Program. This approach ensures that trustees are well-prepared and aligned with STEPWAY'S mission to support veterans and their families. Additional information (optional) You ma choose to include further statements where relevant about: STEPWAY CIO has established comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure that trustees are effectively inducted and trained to carry out their responsibilities. These include.. Policies and procedures adopted for the induction and training of trustees Para 1.51 Initial Induction: All new trustees receive an in- depth induction session led by the Chair and CEO. This includes an oveNiew of the charity's mission, objectives, governance structure, and core programs such as the 7-Step Civilian Skills Program. Policy Familiarisation: Trustees are provided with a handbook containing key policies, including financial controls, fundraising, data protection, safeguarding, health and safety, and managing performance. Access to a full list of policies is available on the chartty's website for ongoing referen. Mandatory Training:
Trustees are required to complete training in essential areas, such as safeguarding, financial management, and compliance with Charity Commission guidance. All trustees are encouraged to attend the 7-Step Civilian Skills Program to gain a first- hand understanding of its impact. Ongoing Professional Development: Monthly workshops are conducted to update trustees on new regulations, best practices, and key developments in the charity sector. Trustees are invited to participate in external training opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge. Regular Reviews: Trustees receive periodic reviews to assess their perf0rrnan and identify any additional training needs. This structured approach ensures that trustees are fully equipped to support STEPWAY'S mission and contribute effectively to its governance Organisational Structure: The charity's organisational structure and any wider network with which the charily works Para 1.51 STEPWAY CIO is governed by a Board of Trustees, which oversees the charity's strategic direction and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. The operational team includes the CEO, an Operations Director, five employees, and a dedicated group of 35 volunteers who contribute to the delive of
services across Worcestershire and the West Midlands. The structure is designed to enable collaboration, efficiency, and effective delivery of the charity's core services, including the 7-Step Civilian Skills Program, Banter and Brew sessions, and community projects. Wider Network and Partnerships: STEPWAY works collaboratively with a range of organisations and networks to enhance the support available to veterans and their families. Key partnerships include: National Organisations: Op-courage NHS Iveterans Mental Health): Providing specialist mental health support for veterans. Op-Nova: Delivering in-reach services to veterans in custody and supporting their families. Primary Care Networks (Social Prescribing): Offering pathways to health and well-being resources. Regional Partnerships: Local Councils: Collaborating with Sandwell and Worcester councils for funding and community initiatives. Malvern Hills District Council and Worcester City Council: Supporting local projects and outreach activities. Membership and Affiliations:
COBSEO (Confederation of Service Charities): As a full member, STEPWAY contributes to a joined-up approach to veteran care. Justice Cluster: Collaborating with other organisations to support veterans in the justi¢8 system. Educational Collaborations: Hosting student placements from the University of Worcester and HOW College, providing real-world experience in community- based support seNices. Volunteer Networks: The charity benefits from a robust network of trained volunteers, including Orange Button holders trained in suicide prevention. By leveraging its organisational structure and extensive neOrk, STEPWAY ensures a comprehensive and integrated approach to supporting veterans and their families. NIA Relationship with any related parties Para 1.51 Strategic Growth: STEPWAY CIO continues to strategically expand its seNices and reach, including plans to enhance community-based support in other counties, ensuring accessibility for more veterans and their families. Other Sustainability Initiatives: The charity is exploring funding opportunities for projects such as solar anel installations at its
wellbeing centres and the development of a recycling and repair café at the LINK Community Hub, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability. Recognition of Contributions: The charity acknowledges the significant contributions of its volunteers and partners. Their dedication has been instrumental in delivering impactful programs, with over 5,000 volunteer hours contributed annually. Enhanced Visibility.. Through participation in local and national forums, including COBSEO and the Justice Cluster. STEPWAY has increased its visibility and advocacy for veteran support. Holistic Impact: STEPWAY'S integrated approach, combining mental health awareness, vocational training, and community engagement, has proven effective in saving lives, rebuilding relationships, and fostering a sense of belonging for veterans and their families. Reference and Administrative details Chari name Other name the charit uses istered charit number Charity's principal address STEPWAY CIO 1186465 The Trinity Worcester WR12PN
Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity Dates acted if not for wholè ear Trustee name Offi¢e lif any) Name of person lor body) entitled int trustee if an Board of Trustees Michael O'connell Kevin Mccann Dave Carney Kevin Gale Mandy Knighton Graham Greenberg Chairlcompliance Secrelarylvice chair Finance NIA NIA Fundraising Welfare AFVBC Representative NIA 7 Sept - present NIA NIA 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Cor orate trustees - names of the directors at the date the re Dlrector name ortwasa roved Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charily Trustee name Dates acted if not forwhole ear
Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others Description of the assets nla hèld in this capacity Name and objects of the charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls wilhin the custodian charity's objects nla Details of arrangements for safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity's own assets nla Additional information (optional) Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information) Type of Name Address adviser Name of Chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional inforniation} Exemptions from disclosure Reason for non-disclosure of ke ersonnel details Other o tional information
Declarations The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees, report above. Signed on behalf of the charity's trustees Signaturels) Full namels} Position (eg Secretary, Chair, etc) Kevin J Mccann David Carney Secretary AccountantThrustee Date 25 January 2026