2024-12-31-accounts

THE SKY IS THE LIMIT

Annual Report and Accounts 2024

“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.“ John F. Kennedy

CHAIR STATEMENT

Every child deserves the chance to rise, to stretch beyond the clouds of circumstance and see how far they can go. At Shining Stars, we hold fast to this belief. Whatever challenges children face, disadvantage, poverty, or inequality , we know their potential is vast, and our mission is to help unlock it.

This year, we reached higher and opened new horizons for the children and families we serve. With the extraordinary support of Mrs. Caring and her dedicated team at the Caring Family Foundation, we introduced free meals across our clubs. This has been a lifeline for many families, tackling food poverty while ensuring that children are nourished, included, and ready to thrive. Together with our supporters, we have continued to climb higher, proving again that potential has no ceiling. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our funders, whose unwavering commitment makes this work possible.

We have also begun shaping the next stage of our work: pushing beyond the clouds of challenge to support young adults, young mothers, and some of our former participants who continue to face significant obstacles. This is an area of real and urgent need, and we are determined to provide safe spaces, guidance, and opportunities for those stepping beyond childhood.

At the same time, our commitment to women and girls has deepened. By addressing the inequalities they face and creating opportunities for them to grow in confidence, skills, and leadership, we are rising to new heights, expanding what is possible for families and communities.

As we look forward, our vision remains bold and unwavering: to believe in every child, every young person, and every family — and to keep opening horizons wider than the barriers they face.

Because at Shining Stars, we know that the sky is the limit.

Joel Oestreicher Chair

Today’s kids have more paths to success than ever, but they also deal with more challenges, more risks, and more dangers. Shining Stars has committed themselves to doing more for the community’s youth.

To doing whatever it takes to empower kids to imagine and achieve great futures, guiding, supporting and advocating for them as they grow into their best selves. We believe it takes an army of skilled staff, a safe environment, high-quality programs and positive experiences to ensure kids have a great future.

Our VISION: TO TRANSFORM AND INSPIRE LIVES OF ALL CLUB MEMBERS TO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY.

Our TO EMPOWER EVERY CLUB MEMBER, THROUGH SAFE AND IMPACTFUL EXPERIENCES, TO CONTRIBUTE TO THEIR COMMUNITY AND LIVE A HEALTHY LIFE MISSION:

Shining Stars believes that all young people deserve to thrive. Shining Stars imagines a world where the determinants necessary to thrive are fully accessible to every youth in London. Thriving reflects a significant sense of growth or success in and across many domains. Young people with access to more quality opportunities are more likely to thrive than their peers with similar adaptive skills.

OUR VALUES:

Respect We recognize that each person has equal, intrinsic worth and deserves to be treated with dignity.

Excellence We set high expectations and work hard to achieve them by engaging in continuous learning and improvement.

Teamwork We collaborate openly on common goals to leverage the expanded knowledge of our entire community.

Innovation We seek out and embrace new possibilities that can increase our impact.

Integrity We operate with honesty and hold ourselves accountable for all words and actions.

PROJECT THEMES

Our four project themes are: society, subsistence success and skills. These themes encompass the core values that we believe are essential for a child’s growth and development.

Society

plays a crucial role in shaping the social skills of children, and it is our responsibility to ensure that all children are included and feel valued. Children who are often excluded from social settings can struggle with developing necessary social skills, which can have long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being. Subsistence In today’s world, millions of children and young people are struggling to access food and essentials due to various reasons. As a society, it is our responsibility to support these vulnerable groups and ensure that they have access to the necessities required for their survival. We believe that no child should have to bear the burden of poverty, and we strive towards making their lives better through our small efforts. Through this program, we provide nutritious meals to underprivileged children who come from low-income families. Our aim is not only to fill their stomachs but also improve their overall health and well-being.

Success is about providing opportunities for personal growth, career development and financial stability. It involves mentorship programs, vocational training and entrepreneurship initiatives. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in life. Providing every child with a pathway to success is critical for their future and the future of society as a whole.

Skills refer to the development of cognitive, emotional and physical abilities that enable children to learn and grow. This includes education, creative expression, problem-solving and critical thinking.

By focusing on these four project themes for supporting children we can create a holistic approach that addresses their needs at every stage of life and create a positive impact on their future.

Holidays in the Stars

Our club is dedicated to ensuring that disadvantaged children have access to safe and enjoyable holiday play schemes. We understand that for many, the school holidays can be a difficult time, with parents struggling to find appropriate activities for their children. Our aim is to provide a solution to this problem by offering a range of fun and engaging activities, all within a safe and secure environment.

“I’ve always dreamed of having a real face mic like the famous actors, and I never thought I’d get the chance—especially since my part in the talent show was small. But when the drama head agreed to let me wear one, it was the best day of my life! I’ll never forget the feeling of performing up high, with the twinkling lights and music, just like in the fairy tale books. Being part of the show gave me so much confidence, and I loved every moment on stage. The experience showed me that I can shine, no matter the size of my role. This program has truly helped me express myself and find my voice!”

Henny aged 11

“This winter holiday was unforgettable! I was so excited to join, and the welcoming atmosphere made me feel right at home. I had a blast with the balloon modeling—creating my own shapes was a real highlight! The exercise song was so much fun; we all danced and laughed together, which really brought us closer. My favorite activity was making veggie skewers at lunchtime. It was not only fun to prepare but also healthy and delicious! I loved sharing them with my friends. I made fantastic friends and had an incredible time. I can’t wait for the next winter holidays!”

Sarah, aged 9

Talent show by Choice

Our club is dedicated to providing drama training and performance opportunities for children who struggle academically. We understand that not all children excel in traditional academic subjects, and we believe that the arts can provide a valuable outlet for their creativity and self-expression. Through our drama program, children learn important skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and confidence building and to succeed both on stage and in life.

‘’Since my daughter, Ava, joined the Weekly Superstars, her social skills have improved tremendously. Initially, she struggled to make friends and often felt isolated, but the inclusive environment has helped her connect with other kids. Now, she actively participates in group activities and has made several close friends. This program has been a lifeline for her social development!” Ettel S., Parent of a Weekly Superstars Participant

Weekly Superstars This project is Part funded by Young Hackney

Our weekly youth clubs are designed to cater to the unique interests and needs of different age groups. We offer a range of activities that are both fun and educational, including sports, crafts, music, drama, and more. Our team of trained staff members ensures that each child feels included and valued while participating in these activities. Moreover, our youth clubs provide an opportunity for children to develop social skills and make new friends. We encourage teamwork, communication, and respect among all participants. We understand the importance of keeping children engaged in constructive activities during their free time.

‘’As a leader for the Shining Stars clubs, I’ve learned invaluable skills like critical thinking and effective communication that empower me to guide my peers. It’s rewarding to organize events and see the positive impact we’re making together. This experience has not only shaped my leadership abilities but has also helped me connect with others in a meaningful way. I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow and inspire change in my community!”

Bella, Leader of Year 5

Leadership Badge

The demand for strong character and leadership skills is increasing in classrooms and workplaces. Being able to think critically, demonstrate empathy for others, communicate effectively, solve problems and collaborate well are necessary skills for young people to navigate the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. Leadership Training promotes social-emotional skills, youth develop the strong character traits central to being effective leaders and agents of change among their peers and within their communities. This approach keeps youth engaged and challenged and builds on their existing knowledge and skills.

“Having access to healthy meals at the club has been life-changing for me. Before joining, I often went home feeling hungry and tired, but now I can count on a nutritious meal every day. The food is not only delicious but also helps me feel more energized and ready to take on activities. It’s so important to know that I’m getting the nutrition I need to grow and thrive. This support makes me feel valued and cared for, and it truly enhances my experience at the club.”

Libby, aged 8

The big Food Problem In today’s world, it is unfortunate that there are still children who go hungry every day. We have taken a small step towards this by providing free meals to children in our clubs. We believe that every child deserves a nutritious meal to fuel their growth and development. The food we serve is healthy and balanced, ensuring that the children get all the necessary nutrients they need. Our efforts may be small in comparison to the scale of the problem, but we firmly believe that every little bit counts.

Why youth club activities are so important, and the benef its of learning skills out of a school setting.

Children and YP can develop new friendships when there is no history and prior knowledge of their academic and social capabilities. They can be appreciated for what they are, and not what they used to be, or where they come from.

Knowledge without the school setting is beneficial for children who cannot sit still, struggle with concentration, or just need to be more active so that their brain can work best.

In school, children and YP are used to being taught and receiving knowledge. In youth club settings, children are welcome to be part of the facilitating sector on many occasions.

TRACKING OUR ASCENT

At Shining Stars, we take a comprehensive and structured approach to monitoring and evaluating the impact of our services, ensuring that we can ef fectively measure progress and continuously improve our of ferings. We use both qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the outcomes of our programs and the positive changes in the lives of the children we serve.

1. Baseline Assessments and Goal Setting

At the start of every child’s journey with us, we conduct detailed baseline assessments to understand their individual needs, challenges, and strengths. This includes evaluating their social, emotional, and academic development. Based on these assessments, we collaboratively set personalized goals with the children and their families. These goals serve as the foundation for tracking progress over time.

2. Regular Feedback and Observations

We closely monitor each child’s development through regular observations during activities, group sessions, and one-on-one interactions. Our trained staff take note of behavioural changes, improvements in confidence, and skills acquired. Additionally, we have a structured feedback system where staff, volunteers, and mentors provide weekly reports on the children’s engagement, participation, and any breakthroughs they observe.

3. Data Collection and Surveys

We gather quantitative data through participation rates, attendance tracking, and pre- and post-program surveys. These surveys are designed for both children and parents to evaluate the child’s progress in key areas such as confidence, social skills, leadership, and independence. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in providing feedback on how the children’s experiences at Shining Stars are translating into real-life improvements at home and school.

4. Outcome Measurement Framework

My Star is a version of the Outcomes Star tool that we use to measure and support change in children and young people, covering eight areas of a child’s life, including:

• Physical health

• • Where they live • Being safe

• Relationships

• Feelings and behaviour

• • Friends

• Confidence and self-esteem

• • Education and learning

Data excerpts from ’Superstar Survey’ 2024 User Feedback

91% increased user involvement

85% improved identity and self esteem

6 weekly youth clubs 500+ youth members 42 young volunteers 17 adult volunteers

83% increased skills and knowledge

72%improved friendships and relationships 78% improved health and wellbeing

TRUSTEES’ REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The trustees present their annual report and financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the financial statements and comply with the charity’s governing document, the Charities Act 2011 and “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 (FRS 102)” (effective 1 January 2019).

Objectives and Activities:

To act as a resource for children and young adults by providing advice and assistance and organising programmes of physical, educational and other activities as a means of:

A) Advancing in life and helping children and young adults by developing their skills, capacities and capabilities to enable them to participate in society as independent, mature and responsible individuals;

B) Providing recreational and leisure time activity in the interests of social welfare for people living in the area of benefit who have need by reason of their youth, age, infirmity or disability, poverty or social and economic circumstances with a view to improving the conditions of life of such persons.

Public Benefit:

The Trustees have taken due heed of their obligations relating to Public Benefit Duty affecting charities, as well as to their obligations under the Equalities Act 2010. The Trustees are satisfied that they meet their obligations.

Achievements and performance

The charity is dependent on income from voluntary donations and grants. Total incoming resources during the year were £84,395 (2023: £63,580.) Charitable expenditure amounted to £80,249 (2023: £62,251.)

Financial Review

Reserves policy

The charity’s policy is to maintain reserves equivalent to at least 3 months of core running costs. This level of reserves is intended to provide financial stability, ensuring that the charity can continue its essential operations in the event of unexpected funding shortfalls or unforeseen expenses. This level of reserves has been maintained throughout the year. The Reserves Policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains appropriate for the charity’s needs and circumstances.

Structure, governance and management

The charity is a trust governed by its declaration of trust, dated 18 January 2018.

The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were: Joel Oestreicher- Chair

Sarah Grosz Jacob Kornbluh

The day to day affairs of the Charity are administered by the Board of Trustees. It is not currently the intention of the Trustees of the Charity to appoint new trustees. Should the situation change in the future, the Trustees will apply suitable recruitment and training procedures. None of the trustees has any beneficial interest in the charity.

The trustee report was approved by the trustees on 1 September 2025, and is signed on its behalf by:

Joel Oestreicher- Chair

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF SHINING STARS LONDON TRUST .

I report to the trustees on my examination of the financial statements of Shining Stars London Trust (the charity) for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the trustees of the charity you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act).

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s financial statements carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act. In carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act.

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 2011 Act; or

2) the financial statements do not accord with those records; or

3) the financial statements 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 financial statements to be reached.

C Weberman Weberman Ltd 44 Fairholt Road London N16 5HW

Dated: 15 September 2025

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Notes: Income and endowments from Donations and legacies Grants Total incoming resources Resources expended Charitable activities 3 Net Income / (Expenditure) Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward	2024 Restricted £	2024 Unrestricted £	2024 Total £	2023 Total £
	62,964	14,098 7,333	14,098 70,297	13,851 49,729
	62,964	21,431	84,395	63,580
	(62,964)	(17,285)	(80,249)	(62,251)
	0	4,146	4,146	1,329
		16,813	16,813	15,484

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

Notes Current Assets Cash at bank Prepayments Current Liabilites Accruals 4 Net Current Assets Net Assets Fund Analysis: Restricted funds Unrestricted funds Total funds	2024 Unrestricted £	2024 Total £	2023 Total £
	21,559	21,559	15693 1120
	21,559	21,559	16,813
	(600)	(600)	0
	20,959	20,959	16,813
	20,959	20,959	16,813
		0 20,959	0 16,813
		20,959	16,813

The financial statements were approved by the trustees on 1 September 2025.

Joel Oestreicher- Chair

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024.

Charity information

The charity is unincorporated and is governed by its trust deed.

1.1 Accounting convention

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document, the Charities Act 2011, FRS 102 “The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland” (“FRS 102”) and the Charities SORP "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 (FRS 102)" (effective 1 January 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. The charity has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.

The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

1.3 Charitable funds

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives. Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements. Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity.

1.4 Income

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received. Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation. Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the charity has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.

1.5 Expenditure

Expenditure is recognised once there is a legal or constructive obligation to transfer economic benefit to a third party, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement, and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is classified by activity. The costs of each activity are made up of the total of direct costs and shared costs, including support costs involved in undertaking each activity. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs which contribute to more than one activity and support costs which are not attributable to a single activity are apportioned between those activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. Central staff costs are allocated on the basis of time spent, and depreciation charges are allocated on the portion of the asset’s use.

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024.

1.6 Tangible f ixed assets

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases:

Plant and equipment - 40% RBM Fixtures and fittings - 20% RBM

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in the statement of financial activities.

Investment property

Investment property, which is property held to earn rentals and/or for capital appreciation, is initially recognised at cost, which includes the purchase cost and any directly attributable expenditure. Subsequently it is measured at fair value at the reporting end date. The surplus or deficit on revaluation is recognised in profit or loss.

Impairment of fixed assets

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).

Cash and equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.

Basic financial liabilities

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’ s contractual

2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. Judgements made by the directors in the application of these accounting policies that have significant effect on the financial statements and estimates with a significant risk of material adjustment in the next year are as follows.

Property valuation

The valuation of the charity’s investment property is subject to a degree of uncertainty, as the value depends on various factors including the nature of the property, its location and expected future net rental values, market yields and comparable market transactions, and is made on the basis of assumptions which may not prove to be accurate.

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024.

3. Charitable activites by activity type

Charitable projects Events Family support Food workshops Holiday club Meals and refreshments Talent show Youth club Governance and support costs Admin Accounting fundraising costs Total:	2024 Total costs £	2024 Total costs £		2023 Total costs £	2023 Total costs £
	4,900 8,339 9,632 10,216 9,168 14,026 15,934 6,911 1,123	72,215 8,034		8,250 3,916 24,197 14,947 10,341 372 228	51,310 10,941
		80,249			62,251

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024.

4. Trustees

None of the trustees (or persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits during the year.

5. Employees

The average number of employees was nil (2023: nil).

6. Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on income and gains falling within section 505 of the Taxes Act 1988 or section 252 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gains Act 1992 to the extent that these are applied to its charitable objects.

7. Related party transactions

Related parties have made donations to the charity to the value of £5,400. They have not received any benefit or remuneration for this. (There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year 2023.)

Shining Stars London 16 Gilda Crescent London N16 6JP

Trustees: Joel Oestreicher, Sarah Gross, Jacob Kornbluh Charity Number: 1186702 Accountants: C Weberman Weberman Ltd 44 Fairholt Road London N16 5HW

Email: [e-mail]