Years sericcr..,...:.,- Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and changing attitudes Annual Report and Financial Statements For the Year Ended 31st March 2024 Charitable Inwrporatsd Organisation ICIOI Charicy No. 1186836
REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Speoalistservite CONTENTS Page Charity Reference and Admlnlstratlve Detalls Report of the Board of Trustees Report of the Independent Audltors 25 Statement of Flnanclal ActlvltlÈs 28 Balance Sheet 29 Statement of Cash Flows 30 Notes to the Financial Statements 31
CHARITY REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DAlLs FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31rt MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Speoalist Serv¢ce Charity Namè: SERICC Charlty Reglstration Number.. 1186836 Registered Offlce and Address: SERICC The Hall West Street Gray5 Essex RM17 6LL Board of Trustees: A Curnick (Chairl G Harrington {Secretaryl M Heine K Dobson (resigned 01 November 20231 Senlor Mana8ernent: Sheila Coates MBE, Director Lee Eggleston OBE, Operational Manager Rebekah Brant, Deputy Chief Operating Officer Auditors Rowland Hall Chartered Certlfied Accountants and Registered Auditors 44154 Orsett Road Grays Essex RM17 SED Bankers CAF BANK Ltd 25 Kings Hill Avenue Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ Barclays Bank 9 High Street Grays E55ex RM17 6NB Sollcltors Taylor Vinters Merlin Place Milton Road Cambridge CB4 ODP HR Advlsors Moore Kingston Srnith HR Consultancy Limited 9 Appold Street London EC2A 2AP
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Sem Chairwornan's report This year we are proud to be enterin9 our 40th year OF delivering specialist services to victims and survivors Of sexual violence and sexual abuse. Cur dedicated stafF team has shown their commitment and expertise in deliverin9 specialist Front-line. life-chan9ing services to children. young people. adults and their Families and carers. This report highlights the impact and evi&nced based outcornes OF our services. This year. we have seen again. the longer ternt consequences OF the cost OF IiviA9 crisis and the uncertainty in UK and global events directly afFecting the daily lives and mental health QF service users. The bac4109 in the criminal courts. resultin9 in delay5 to justice has meant the charity has needed to work with Individuals For longer periods Of time. The fundin9 uncertainties Of these essefttial serwites are some OF the challenges the charity will face ln the near future. would like to thank our team OF Trustees for their on90in9 comrnitment in supportlng SERICC and their plans to recruit new Trustees across 2024. Together. we have risen to the challenges and continued to develop new services and projects. consolidate and invest in our existing service provision. always with the fOCUS on the individuals who come to US for support. The ongoing need for long-terffl funding rernains front and center for the or9anisation. Alison Curftick Ycors of challenging myths and changing attitudes
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31sr MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service The Trustees present their report and the audited financial statements of the charlty for the perlod Aprll 2023 to 315¢ March 2024. The Trustees have adopted the provlslons of the Statement of Recommended Practice ISORPI "Accounting and Reportin8 by Charities" (FRS 1021 in preparing the annual report and financlal statements of the charlty. The flnancial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in notes to the accounts and comply with the charit(s 8overning document, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Prartice applicable to charities preparing thelr account5 in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published on 16th July 2014 las amended by Update Bulletin I published on 2nd February 20161. TRUSTEES OF THE CHARITY The Trustees who have Served duringthe year and since the year end were a5 follows: A Curnlck Ichairl M Heine G Harrington (Secretary) K Dob50n (resigned 01 November 20231 SERICC provides specialist services to anyone in South and West Essex who is experiencin& or who has experienced, any form of sexual violence and abuse at anytlme in their life. Speciali5ed services are offered to parents, carers and supporters. Sexual violence is a term that includes any sexual behaviours that are unwanted or that happen without a person's consent. SERICC uses a wide definition of sexual violence and abuse and includes rape, sexual assault, domestit sexual violence and sexual abuse, child sexual abuse, non-contatt onllne grooming, viewing and rnaking indecent images of children. 66 My whole lite I've been told and treated that I'm worthless. I'm rK)t worthy of anything. You have changed that l AM worthy and deserve and feel able to look to the future. I'm smiling and found myself singing along to a song - I started crylng because I can't remember when I lasl sang 99
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialisc Service SERICC uses an evidenced based approach to providing high-quality sexual vlolence services including: Children, young people and family's services preventative, educatlve and therapeutic work, working with families to build emotional resilience and physical well-being and safety planning Independent Sexual Violence Accredited Advisers IISVAAsl provide emotional and specialist prartical support and information to victims and survivors of sexual violence who have reported to the police or are considering reporting to the police. Emotional support servlces telephone triage, early support providing information on coping strategies. self- esteem. recovery. confidence building and self-care Speciallst sexual violence therapeutic interventions one-to-one counsellin& pre-trial therapv. The impact of sexual abuse and violence often results in low 5elf-esteem, depression, anxlety and mental health problems. Many individuals who contact us share their feellngs of self-blame, shame, guilt and find it difficult to speak of their experiences, Sexual vlolence counsellin& support and advocacy is delivered in an empathic sensitive environment to enable individuals to re8ain-control over their lives and improvement their health and well-being. Child and Family Services SERICC provides an early intervention service to parents / carers whose children have experienced sexual abuse and violence and/or where the family are engaged with Thurrock Council social care. The Brighter Futures Programme offers an integrated and intensive service to equip families to learn and apply parenting skills that develop resourcefulness and resllience while strengthening positive relationships wlth their children. The Brighter Futures Programme and the Young People counselling service is funded by Thurrock Council for Thurrock residents. 46 66 It has been tantasti¢ for me in coping with the incident with my daughter and most of the fallout from my family. Having the counsellor there to reflect and talk to has been amazing families 119 children and 27 parents) received 239 face to face Sessions. 99 SERICC'S internal pollcies and procedures are 5ubjett to an external annual review undertaken by Thurrock Children's and Adult Services Commissioners. This annual quality assurance review involves policy and procedures, staff and service user interview5.
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specralistservice Speclallst sexual violence therapeutic interventions SERICUS coun5ellin8 service has responded to 16,726 counselling related contacts and artivities includlng telephone calls. emails/ letters and meetings. SERICC are committed to ensuring that as many individuals a5 P055ible can acce55 5ervice5 Wlthout len8thy waiting lists and introduced a new servlce for individuals to access early support, SERICC collates feedback to prove outcome5 which influence policy and prartice in the service5 they receive from SERICC and other a8encie5, SERICC worked with 1,179 new referrals in the last year whilst working with 1,869 individuals who had 1,276 dependants. Individuals were offered 6,035 sexual abuse and violence counselling sesslons and 2,379 Independent Sexual Violence Accredited Adviser (ISVAAI and advocacy sessions. Independent Sexual Violence Accredited Advisers (15VAAs) The ISVAA servlce provides essential specialist support to those who choose to report sexual offences to the police. ISVAAS ensure that individuals are fully informed whilst going through the CrlmSnal Justice System includlng Initial and ongolng police Investigatlons and support through the courts process, The ISVAA service works in c105e partnershlp with Essex Police and Oakwood Place, Essex Sexual Assault Referral Centre {SARCI. There continues to be dlsruption to the Crlmlnal Justice System due to the backlog in cases increasing the already lengthy delays.1SVAA's provided accompaniment to 24 trials and court cases, police related appointment5, Sexual health servlces, general health and well-beln8 servlces. This will double in 2024. Number of Incldents reported to the pollce 36% 27.5% 22% 14% 0.5% In last 12 mDnth5 In last 12-24 months ore ihan 24 months Reportgd butdate not avallable Not reported to ptsilce 66 You lot are like superwomen, the stuff you do and all the people you help, what would I do without you 99
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315t MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Speoali5t Service Servlces include: Criminal, Civil & Family Justlce System information and dedicated support informatlon and accompaniment to appointments Housing support, signposting and information in partnership with Thurrock Council Information about criminal injuries compensation applications and victim's code 66 My abuse is so unreal I don't think people believè mé. When I told you about my past. I was waiting for you to ask If It's true but you dldn't. You asked me questions that made me feel you understood. l asked you if you believed me and you said yes, I don't think I have ever felt so supported 99 Emotlonal support services There has also been a significant increase in the number of new referrals who self-reported multiple needs relating to their mental and physical health.. 623 individua15 Stated they are experiencin8 mental health difficultie5 122 individuals stated they have a leaming disability 149 indlvlduals stated they have a physical disability 272 individuals stated they have a dlagnosed long-term illne55 First Contact Navigators (triage seNicel provided 1.396 First meeting sessions and 13,291 assessment contacts on behalf of SERICC.
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31$1 MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse SFeciali5t Serv7ce Servlce User Demo8raphlcs SERICC has bespoke Data Performance Management System IDPMSI that collates detalled anonymous sexual abuse and violence statistlcal records and data In line within data protettion le8islation to performance mana8e, Inform servlce delivery, meet funding monitoring requirements and identify trends and patterns. scricc data & insiohts QUALITY ASSURANCE Who uses our servlces? The majority of individuals are women and girls: The largest proportion of Individuals using servlces this year are aged between 18 and 54 68.7%, with children and young people (aged up to 17 years old) making up just under a quarter of all individua15 SUPPOrted. Nearly half, 47%, of all individuals using servlces reported having one or more dlsablllty. Black, Asian and mlnorltised communlties has increased to 13% of all indivlduals supported. In line with the Essex census population111.2%1. The Criminal Justice System, the Sexual Assault Referral Centre ISARCI. Health and Voluntary Settor Services referrals were generally the same as the prevlous year. However, referrals from the Local Authority have decreased, there was an increase in the number of self-referrals. At first point of contact 25% of individuals are adult survivors of chlldhood sexual abuse. In line with the prevlous year 7% of Indlvlduals are famlly members or friends of the vittims and survivors. Around 87% of sexual crimes are committed by a known individual, in just over l in 4 cases, that person is a family member, and just over a further l in 4 cases involve 3 current or ex-partner. 66 I feel so listened to and not judged I have had no sleep du• to bolng anxious and this appointment and you've made ffle feel so safe. Thank you 99
REPORT OFTHE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specrdlisr Service What 18 th• ago range ol vlctlms and 8urvlvors7 fj5 and over- 1.5% 55 to64- 6.1% 12and undor- 5.8% 13tts17- L7.8% 45to54-12% 351044-17.8%- -18to24- 18.8% 251034-22.3% Wh•r• do vkllms and $wvivor$ liv•7 32% 21% 15% 3% 8asildon Brentwood Epping Harlow Thjrrock Other Essexl Out ofArea
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse swialiserV1(e How do vlctlms arKI 8urvlvor8 access 8etvl¢e8? frof?rral •owul Other03% Voluntary$•¢ror- 8 5% Localauthorlty. ll.3% Self-2U% Third party. L -GJS.29296 RC. 4.7% What are the pr•s•ntlng experfence8 of sexual vk>lence Suppwt¢ts¢tlSurvNors l•.&farnilyllriqnd)- 7] ultvictirn818urviwrs of R•pe& SexualAbu58 .34. Child &Youn8People ctimslsurvlvorsof R•pe& S•xualAtYJ5e- 16.1% Adult vicrimsl survivor$ ttf Chtid Sexual Abuse- 16.7% Adultvictim$l survivor$of Dom•stic Sexual ASe-25A%
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service Who commits crlme$ of Sexual vk)lence? LSndisclosed- 4.6% Stran¢er-&2% Grvupof perpetrator5. 2% PersonirsaPQSition 0ftn.% Iniimare partmrl •artfier-26% Swersocial _ - Famllymember. Is. AcqUaint¢8- Ertended f•mly memb*r- U.8% Achlevement5 and Performance SERICC is commltted to upholdin8 the hlghest possible standards for staff and provldin8 intemal and external training and evidence-based service delivery. This was achieved through: Ensuring service users, experiences. are heard through feedback, evaluation and outcome data Providing training for staff as part of ongoing professional development and staff health and well-being Receiving stakeholder feedback (external organi5ations and public bodies) Strengthening and participating in local, regional and national partnerships and undertaking joint working to ensure that service user needs, and experiences are included in policy and procedure Providing staff supervisioni peer supervision and performance management The use of ongoing data collection followed by data analysis for service planning and development 66 Thank you so much for your patience, I have never been able to speak to anyone about this before 99 io
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31rt MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse SpecialistSeNice Evidence based services: SERICC undertakes client surveys before and after services. The questionnaire5 are collated and the % reflects the overall total, A benchmark measure of 40% is used. Any % returned that is below this value are closely examined and changes made to service provision. Satisfaction with the service 990 of closed cases said they were satisfied with the Service and the support was sensltive to their needs and situation More in control of their lives 960A of closed cases said they were now more confident and able to make decisions about their future Better hèalth and well beln8 of closed cases had better coping strate8ie5 and were able to recognise the impact of sexual violence on their lives More able to access further support of closed cases sald they knew of resource5 and opportunities to access education or employment More able to develop & maintain positive relationshlps 470 of closed cases stated they felt more able to trust people and build relationships More able to assert their rights 98° of closed cases stated that they knew their ri8hts and entitlements, which included engaging with the Crlminal Justice System, family courts andlor civil proceedings li
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 scricc Rape 2nd Sexual Abuse Specialist Serwce SERICC participates in local, regional and national policy consultations and working groups that relate to sexual abuse and violence in which current research and good practice can be shared internally with staff and external practitioners and agencies. SERICC participated In Consultations/Workin8 Groups and undertook work which included: East Re8ion Crown Prosecution Servlce expert panels Support and prevention work in schools, and other educational settings Essex Domestic Violence Board Thurrock Children's Commi55i0ned Services Essex Police Community Engagement Group Thurrock Community Safety Partnership Essex Strategic Group including sub8roups relating to high profile cases Thurrock Council for Voluntary Service Thurrock multi-agency Strate8ic Board for Violence Against Women & Girls Southend, Essex and Thurrock Domestic Abuse Reference Group Essex Sexual Violence and Sexual Assault Strategic Partnership Board Anglia Ruskin Universlty Child Sexual Abuse Project Home Offlce- Violence against Women and Girls Stakeholders Forum Crown Prosecution Service ICPSI Child Sexual Abuse Stakeholders Forum Ministry of Justice- Victim and Witness Sector Engagement Group National Health Service England INHSE) sexual and domestic violence group Memberships.. Association of Child Protection Professionals IAOCPP) National Council for Voluntary Organisations INCVOI Nation31 Counsellin8 and Psychotherapy Society INCPSI Thurrock Council for Voluntary Or8anisations ITCVSI Rape Crisis England and Wales IRCEWI Women's Resource Centre IWRCI 66 It has changed my life to get rid of the negative feelings and knowing l am nol to blame 99 12
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 3151 MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Servi Subscriptions Clinks (supporting the voluntary sector working in the Criminal Justice System) CIPD- HR-inform Breathe HR Civil Society Award5 SERICC successfully completed the natlonal standards required to be awarded a Trauma Kite Mark from the National Charity One Small Thlng Ivalld until July 20261. Partnership workin8 SERICC works in partnership Wlth Southend on Sea Rape Crisis ISOSRCI, and Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse ICARAI North and mid Essex. Together we form the Syner8y Essex Partnership to ensure services are accessible pan Essex, Centres offer services through primary funding 50urces from: the Essex Police, Flre and Crime Commissioner and the Minlstry of Justice. More victim5 can be supported through the partnership and the provlslon of a triage system and accessto immediate specialist support. Better Outcomes through Unked Data IBOLD). SERICC completed the BOLD project with the Ministry of Justice in August. BOLD 15 a Bovernrnent data-Sinking programme which aims to improve the connectedness of government data in England and Wales. The final Ministry of Justice report will be published in the autumn of 2024. Social Impact and Soclal Value SERICC adhere5 to the Rape Crisis England & Wales and Ministry of Justice monitoring and evaluation framework which Is almed at reporting on the improvements to emotional and physical health after using SERICC services. SERICC distributes and clrculates information on education, skills and self-help via the SERICC website and outreach sites. The materials and information on SERICC'S website, has the added benefit of increasing well-being, improving resilience and reducing isolatlon. The Synergy Essexand SERICC websites continuesto grow and adheretothe good prartice guidance of Browse Aloud which offers a range of accesslble tools and lan8ua8es on the web sites.
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31$¢ MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialisc Serw¢* SERICC has a dedicated area on the website for anyone to access self-help resources. Service users are encouraged to suggest content or let us know what Is useful to them or their famllles. sericc our oce To date, more than 250 people have signed up to Your Space with a satisfaction rate of lOO%. SERICC: This past year has seen an Increase in requests from service users for subsldlsed travel, food vouchers and essentials such as baby food and items, school uniform and furniture and information about debt management. In addition to helping with financial hardship, SERICC offers accompaniment to appointments, such as welfare reviews and medical appeals. oc]E] SERICC undertakes advocacy work to enable individuals who are experiencing housing or debt difficulties to address and resolve problems, enabling them to live independently. Relieving pressure on Statutory servlces e.g. housing, GPS, mental health seNlces etc. In Thurrock, this service received dedicated funding and enables the Floatlng Support worker to provide longer term support, particularly to those who have experienced domestic sexual violence. SERICC held a Christmas party in December 2023, with a traditional Santa presenting the toys and gifts to 33 children. 5ERICC staff delivered fresh food parcels, toys and gifts, all hand-picked, packed, wrapped and personally delivered to homes across the SERICC service delivery areas supporting 73 adults and 108 children. 60 No one usually believes me this is the first time I have felt someone understsnds me •• 14
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 3151 MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse SpKialisi Service Delivering Public Benefits- Achievements and Performance The core services provlded by SERICC is the provision of specialist, independent, community based sexual abuse and violence 'face to face, counsellin8, SUPPOrt, advocacy, telephone servlce and information sUPPOrt and outreach. The sexual abuse and violence counselling and ISVAA servlces operate at the 5ERICC head office based In Thurrock, its satellite base in Thurrock Council for Voluntary Service (Beehive Centrel and across outreach sites including schools across South and West Essex. After refurbishing our sites in Thurrock and Harlow, a pilot group for girls ha5 been successfully delivered with plan5 for delivering three future groups between 2024 and 2025. GIRLS GROUP sericc Harlow Venue Thjnkyou foFa¢cepiinpourlnvltat4on tololn 5w••k iupport 9foibP deslgn4d to ImpFoveyoury•ll 19 and9N•you aleSpectIO mwroth•r glrfswhtshave OXPbrf•ncod 5•xuoI 01nGe. Th14ts1rJ¢onfirmyourpla¢• In ¢h•gr•up ar t•ll you thef)44ny Irrfvrmwtlork se brlngy¢JurcDn5vntfvrmwifh bya parqnt orcarqv Ifyou h•v• r4tst4lr•adysMi th15 bx. SÉAICC al Latlon BUS CM1878L Oates.. 14th. 21st 8 28th Septemlxr 5th &12th Octobgr W• knk k*rwwd to rnwtln4yoy on thv14ths•prember. pleaselot onoof us know Ifyou annot•tt•ffAlfoT ng reason.Thankyou. Tlmo.. MeEt in Aecep0Th at&45pffL finlsh by 7..15pm 07508 554564 SERICC has undertaken an internal audit of policies, procedures and internal systems in relation to succession, recruitment and retirement, working with LEEP Consultancy to ensure that all are robust and up to date. SERICC is professionally approved through the Rape Crisis England and Wales sexual violence and abuse National Service Standard5. The Rape Crisis England and Wales Service Standards are due for renewal by March 2025. SERICC provided 113 hours of dlrect technical support to Rape Crisis Centre5 regarding the Data Performance Management System IDPMSI and 18 hours per month engagement on behalf of Rape Crisis England & Wales at national strategic groups includin& Home Office. Ministry of Justice and NHS England influencing policy and practice for victims and survivors of sexual abuse and violence. 15
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse spec115[ SeNice FINANCIAL REVIEW The charity, with the ald of sound financial management and the support of both its staff and Trustees, generated a positive financial outcome for the period. Princlpal Funding Sources SERICC'S main source of income is project-specific grants, contracts and Service Level AEreements which include: Essex Police. Fire and Crime Commissioner Rape Crisis England and Wales Thurrock Council / Thurrock Integrated Care Board 'Better Care Fund, Ministry of Justice The National Lottery Community Fund Thurrock Council {Development Fund, Strategic Fund, Housing Related Support. Brighter Futures, Young People Counsellorl These Income sources are dependent on the ability and willin8ness of external agencies and government departments/local authorities to support the provision of specialist sexual violence services. 66 You have helped me to understand how trauma has affected my ways of trying to cope Risk Revlew The level of income kept in reserves is based on a realistic assessment of the charity's future income. needs and expenditure. The funding landscape is stlll complex and dynamic with unpredictability of existing government funds, limited availability of larger grants from trusts and local authorities declaring bankruptcy. No inflationary increases have been applied by any funders again this year. SERICC continues to look at ways of diversifying income sources. The wider economic climate, fuel and energy increases, and the overall cost of living increase has affected on our staff team which SERICC recognised and responded to by increases to salaries and a cost-of-living award. Premises that SERICC rent to deliver services have incurred increased fuel costs 16
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and rent increases. The Board of Trustees are satisfied that risk management steps will mitigate the identlfied rlsks to the charity and are regularly reviewed. SERICC approach to risk management: ACCESSTHERI WHAT1S7HEIMPACT PLANTHERESPOMSE AGRÉETHEPL4N AEVIEW& UPDATE Rlsk Management Internal financial controls, policy and procedure5 are in place to ensure compliance and are in line with the Charlty Commission guidance on financial controls. These procedures are periodically reviewed to ensure that they contlnue to meet the needs of the charity. Quarterly monitoring reports to external funders ensure a consistent quality of delivery for the operatlonal aspects of the harity. SERICC work with a range of external experts as part of good practice forthe overall governance and risk management, For exafflple, Human Resources IHRI are provided by Moore Kingston Smith, Subjett access requests and data protection advice is provided by A Jolly Consultancy. SERICC were certified as Cyber Essential Plus for the second year workin8 With our IT support provider Sprint Integration. The Senior Management Team have supported Trustees in the overall management and monitoring of finance and staffing matters by providing a suitable level of scrutlny of the finances and HR policies and prattices to make recommendations on these mattersto the trustees fortheir decision. SERICC trustees acknowledge their responsibility for naming and prudently managing the risks to which the charity is exposed. An annual review of the financial risk re8lSter ensures that the trustees are well informed to arrive at a set of parameters and decisions for risk they consider to be acceptable. The trustees continue to review and question the reserves policy to Set up and agree a suitable level of reserves, With thi5 information, the trustees can make informed choices about the strategic proposals putfon¥ard bythe Senior ManagementTeam. The principal risk, which continuesto cause uncertainty for 5ERICC 15 its dependence on the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner IPFCCI who, In addltion to their contract, administrate 8rants made avallable from the Ministry of Justice which are due to cease in March 2025. This has provided, alon8With the PFCC contract 37% of SERICC Income and continues to be a significant uncertainty beyond the end of the current grant period in March 2025. The procurement for these services wlll '80 ouv to competitive tendering in the Summer of 2024. 17
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist SeNice The charity manages risks through reserve5 to keep essential staff, operations and services stable whllst contingency plans are implemented. Reserves The Trustees are satisfied that risk management steps will mitl8ate the identified risks to the charitv. SERICC Trustees have considered the wider economic climate and the likelihood of reduced levels of local authority funding which may affect reserves. Trustees recogni5e the need to ensure adequate operational costs are held in unrestricted reserves to account for contractual obligations to staff, risk management and any unanticipated redurtion in income. This is set at the beginning of the financial year and Is subject to review based on actual expenditure across the financial year. The level set in relation to the year to 31" March 2024 was £716,111 for 26 weeks16 months) running costs. The level of reserves required is based on: An understanding of operating activities to be maintained Possible delays in restricted funding to on-going projects Potential risks to StaIng costs such as long-term staff illness or maternity leave Potential risks of funding cuts Potentially reduced unrestricted funding Potential unanticipated need for new IT equipment Amounts are set aside to meet the provision for an orderly winding-down of operations in the event of a significant adverse event that Is outslde the control of SERICC. This may include: Statutory redundancy payments Staff salary and expenses to oversee the winding down Exiting contracts such as those for mobile phones, rent and broadband Any professional fees needed e.g. accountancy and legal The continuation of an internet presence for a period of time SERICC Trustees have agreed to designate funds for the potential future acquisition of a property. As at 31st March 2024 SERICC total funds were £1,625,894 which included restricted funds of £23,554, designated funds of £1,008,386 and unrestricted funds of £593,954.
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service Any surplus funds will be used to increase capacity by recruiting new staff for both central servlces and frontline Staff. Due to the nature of SERICC'S work, particularly with vulnerable clients, it is vltal specialist counsellin& support and advocacy services are completed with each individual client in a time sensitive manner, particularly for clients who have reported to the police and are awaiting crlminal justice outcomes. These individuals, and in particular children, can wait up to eighteen month5 or longer from reporting the offence to the police to attendance in court. Since the disruption to the Criminal Justice System this has extended to end of 2026- beginning of 2027. Service development and staff recruitment is affected by lack of funding certainty causing multiple organisational problems including employment issues such as posts being vacant due to short-term or fixed-term contract5. The charity need5 reserves to evidence sound financial management, partlcularly when applying for grants and contracts and can demonstrate reliable services or funding overthe longerterm. As lead partner in the Essex Partnership, reserves are held to ensure payments can be made in advance to partners to ensure seamless service delivery. This has been particularly challenging due to delayed payments or part year awards for funding paid in significant arrears. Future Developments Continuing to build on the success of a designated venue for children and families, services and opportunlties for dlversifying income streams, SERICC will be integrating service user questionnaires to ensure areas of development will be undertaken. SERICC will proartively seek to income generate to future proof the delivery of services. 5ERICC will be increasing its capital fund to a more reallstic figure. SERICC will take advice on investments and opportunities and Trustees will only art on profe55ional advice about any potential property investments. Fundraislng The Charity has not undertaken any significant fundraislng activlties with the public in the year but has welcomed donation5 from local individuals and organisations which goes towards the SERICC 'hardship' fund which is used when service users face economic or other adversltles. This includes supporting families in emergency accommodation or supplying emergency food and clothin& and transport. SERICC a150 ensures interpreters are available for service users and meets thls cost wlth this fund. 19
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sericc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service STRucfuRE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Governlng docurnent The organisation is a charity that merged with South Essex Rape and Incest Crisis Centre and incorporated with the Charity Commission on 9th December 2019. As a Charitable Incorporated Organi5ation ICIOI, the objects of the Charlty as detailed in the SERICC Constitution are: to relieve sickness and distress amongst those affected by any form of sexual violence and abuse, particularly, but not limited, to women and girls and the community in Essex and the surrounding areas within East Anglia. and including the families and friends of those affected and others affected who are in need, in particular by the provision of counselling and 5UPPOrt for such persons; and to advance education of the public in the subject of sexual violence and abuse, including by but not limited to, the provision of training and publication of information and guidance. Recruitment and appolntment of the Board of Trustees SERICC is governed by a Board of Trustees made up of no less than three and no more than twelve Trustees with a range of skills, knowledge and experience. Trustees that hold honorary positions serve for 12 months, after which they must be re-elected at the Annual General Meeting. The Board of Trustees meets on a regular basis and is responsible for the ongoing viability, strategic development and direction of the organisation. Trustees hold overall responsibility for the organisation's continued success, it is vital that its Trustees have the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them to carry out thls functlon. Trustees are encouraged to take part in all appropriate trainin8 Opportunities, to contlnue to develop their skills and update their knowledge of legal requirements. funding issues and other developments and finance information is shared. Board meetings continue to take place virtually. Information from the Charity Commission publications and the Commission's guidance is distributed. The SERICC Board of Trustees confirms that they have complied with the duty In Section 17 of the Charities Act 2011 to have due regard to public benefit guidance published by the Charities Commission. Organisatlonal strurture SERICC is a South Essex based charity providing essential services to individuals who have experienced any form of sexual violence and child sexual abuse. A range of specialist seNlces are provided in Thurrock, Brentwood, Southend and Harlow with hub outreach sites across the districts, 20
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 sc(icc Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist SèrvKe schools and colleges, hospitals and voluntary sertor buildings and are dellvered by professlonal and experienced staff. SERICC'S prlmary beneflciarles are Indivlduals affected by any fomi of sexual violence and sexual abuse, partlcularly, but not Ilmlted, to women and 8lrls and the community in South Essex and the surrounding areas. Secondary beneficiaries include the community, or8anisations and agencies that access awareness raising relating to the impact of sexual abuse and violence. SERICC is a needs-led service in whlch the needs of service u5er5 influence the strategic and operational development of the organisation. Service users play a central role through the provision of ongolng individual feedback and evaluation. SERICC also facilltates focus groups with service users to ensure thelr vlews and oplnlons are included in the development and monitoring process. SERICC Operatlonal Chart: seficc peènd SexuatAbus¢ Swlwserwc . Dhvel0roforII It Tram I pr01llc*L?ds The central servicesteam including Dirertor, Sheila Coates MBE, Operations Manager Lee Eggleston OBE and Deputy Chief Operations Offlcer, Rebekah Brant provlde the overall management of SERICC. Team Leaders are In place to provlde dally Ilne management of staff team5. SERICC staff receive Individu31 and peer supervislon In recognltlon of the impact of working with trauma and adhering to professional code of ethics. In addition to providing clinical 5UPPQrt, 5uperv151on a150 plays an important role In the contSnued professional development of all staff, ensuring they are up to date 21
REPORT OF THETRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse SpecialisE SeNce wlth therapeutic and other developments in the sector and related fields. SERICC is committed to the ongoing professional and personal development of all its staff and volunteers (including Trustees}, of which trainin8, and supervision is an integral part. The training needs of all staff are closely monitored to ensure that individuals and the staff team are provided with opportunities to develop or improve their practice and stay up to date with new developments, legislation and procedures. Remuneratlon SERICC is committed to careful management of its charity funds. In so doing, it ensures the greatest effectiveness in delivering its charitable objectives and meeting the needs of service users. After undertaking a benchmarking exercise with LEEP consultancy, SERICC have established salary bandings and descriptions for the majority of p05ts, and salary allocations are based on the requlrements of the post, including experience of staff and the funding available for the post. Cost of living increases are considered in line with any NJC recommendatlons and in the future an inflationary rise will be applied to salaries in 2024. The annual accounts disclose the number of staff receiving salary of more than £60,000 per annum, in bands of £10,000. SERICC makes pension contributions equivalent to a minimum of 3% of gross salaries on behalf of its employees. Employees are Auto Enrolled into the scheme on employment. The contributions are charged to the statement of financial activities on an accrual basis. The charity has no liability under the scheme other than for the payment of those contributions. SERICC Trustees are not paid for their work as a Trustee but are offered reimbursement for reasonable out of pocket expenses should they arise. SERICC'S Board of Trustees takes legal, HR or any other advice. when necessary, from experts that SERICC contracts with. Organisational values SERICC'S services are evidenced based. Recording {monitoringl the service delivery outcomes and outputs inform service delivery and measures performance. Monitoring informs all aspects of the organisation, from service gaps in provision, governance and any change5 to service provision. 5ERICC offer creative and innovative services that best meets the needs of service users and the local communities in which SERICC serves. At the time of this report SERICC employs 27 staff and contracts with sessional coun5ellors and consultants who have speclfic areas of expertise, when necessary. 22
REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31$t MARCH 2024 scricc Rape and Sexual Abuse Speaalist SeNice INVESTMENT POLICY SERICC Trustees. where necessary. will seek advice from an independent flnancial advisor regarding any future financial investments. Should the national financial position change and stabilise, the charity would reassess its position whilst continuing to adhere to the Charity Commission guidance on investments. TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITIES IN RELATION TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The charity Trustees are responsible for preparing a Trusteeg annual report and financial statements in accordance wlth applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards Iunited Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Pratticel. The law applicable to charities in En8land and Wales requires the charity Trustees to prepare financial statements for each year that glve a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources, of the tharity for that period. In preparing the financial statements, the Trustees are required to.. Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently State whether applicable accountin standards have been followed, subject to any material departures dlsclosed and explained in the financial statements Observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP 2019 (FR 1021 Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basi5 it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operatlon Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent The Tru5tee5 are responslble for keeping proper accounting records that disd05e with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial posltion of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charitles (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the Trust Deed. They are also responslble for safeguarding the assets of the charity and taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detettion of f raud and other irre8ularitles. The Trustee5 are responslble for the maintenance and integrity of the charity and financial information induded on the charitvs website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statement5 may differ from legislation in other jurlsdictions.
REPORT OFTHETRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 scricc RapÈ and Sexual Abuse SpecialistS1ce th Approved by the Trustees on 25 September 2024 and signed on their behalf by: Alison Curnick Chair of Board of Trustees 24
SERICC REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TOTHE MEMBERS OF SERICC Opinion We have audlted the flnancial statements of SERICC Ithe 'charit¢l for the year ended 31st March 2024 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the cash flow statement and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation 15 applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reportin8 Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK und Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our oplnion the financial statements.. give a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31st March 2024, and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including Its income and expenditure for the year then ended: have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accountin8 Practice; and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements ofthe Charities Act 2011, Basis for oplnion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing IUKI IISAS IUKII and applicable law. Our responsibllities under those standards are further described In the auditorf5 responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are Independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requlrements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provlde a basls for our opinion. Conclusions relatlng to goin8 concern In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the Tru5tees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate, Based on the work we have performed, we have not Identified any material uncertainties relatin8 to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibillties of the Trustees wlth respett to going concern are described in the relevant sertlons of this pOrt. Other information The other information comprlses the information included in the Trustees, annual report. other than the financial statements and our auditorf5 report thereon, The Trustees are responsible for the other information. Our oplnion on the financial statements does not cover the other Information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly Stated In our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
SERICC REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF SERICC Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit or otherwise appear5 to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves, If, based on the workwe have performed. we conclude that there is a material misstatement of thls other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Matters on which we are required to report by exception We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters In relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Re8ul3tions 2(K)8 require us to report to you if. in our opinion: the information given in the financial statements is incon515tent in any materlal respert with the Trustees, report; or the charity ha5 not kept adequate accounting records; or the financial statement5 are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns,. or we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. Responsibilities of Trustees As explained more fully In the Trustees, responsibilities statement set out on page5 23 and 24, the Trustees are responsible for the preparation of financial statements and for belng satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the Trustees determlne is necessary to enable the preparation of flnancial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparin8 the financial statement5, the Trustees are responsible for assessing the charitls ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matter5 related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Trustees either intend to liquidate the charity or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. Audltorfs responsibilities for the audit of the financlal statements We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Att 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder. Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements 35 a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditorfs report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS IUKI will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or In the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 26
SERICC REPORT OFTHE INDEPENDENT AUDITORS TO THE MEMBERS OF SERICC Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The specific procedures for this engagement and the extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud 15 detailed below: Obtaining an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks applicable to the entltyi including but not limited to the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities SORP; Enquiry of management, those charge with governance, and the entiws legal advisors around actual and potential Iltigation and claims; Review of legal costs to ascertain the nature of costs and possible related non-compllance. Reviewing minutes of meetings of those charged with governance- Performing audit work over the risk of management override of controls, including testing of journal entries and other adjustments for appropriateness, evaluating the busine55 rationale of significant transactions outside the normal course of business and revlewln8 accounting estimates for bias. Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactlons reflected in the financial statements, a5 we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularitie5 occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involve5 intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission, or misrepresentation. A further description of our responsibilities is available on the FRCS website at: htt s://www.frc,or .uk/auditorsresDonsibilities. This descriptlon forms part of our auditorfs report. Use of our audlt report This report is made solely to the charity's Trustees, as a body, in accordance with Part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charitvs Trustees those matters we are requlred to state to them in an auditor's report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibillty to anyone other than the charity and the charitvs Trustees as a body. for our audit work, for thls report, or for the opinions we have formed. 44154 Orsett Road Grays Essex ROWLAND HALL (Statutory Auditor) Chartered Certified Accountant5 and Registered Auditors th 27 September 2024 Rowland Hall is eligible for appointment as audltor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006. 27
SERICC STATEMEhrr OF FINANCIAL AcfiviTIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 Total Total Funds Fund5 to to 31.03.24 31.03.23 Unrestrirted Unrestrirted Designated General Fund5 Funds Restrlcted Funds Notes Income and endowments from: Donations and legacies: Donations Grants Charitable activities.. Grants and contracts Fees for services & direct work Other Other trading activities Investments Other Income 8,649 56,828 8,649 56,828 6.991 63,142 492,458 2,226,189 91,5Crf) 2,718,647 2,672,462 91,500 4,247 20,847 20,847 5,121 1,000 Totsl Income 492.458 2,404,013 2,896,471 2.752,963 Expenditure on: Raising fijnds Charitable activities 490,999 2,397,455 2,888,454 2,827.165 Total Expenditure 490,999 2,397,455 2,888,454 2.827.165 Net Income/lexpenditurel 1,459 6,558 8,017 174,2021 Transfers between funds 2,525 12,5251 Net movement in funds: 3,984 4,033 8,017 174,2021 Reconcillatlon of funds: Total funds brought forward 19,570 1,008,386 589,921 1.617.877 1,692,079 Totsl funds carried forward 23,554 1,008,386 593,954 1.625,894 1,617,877 The Statement of Financial Activities includes all gains and losses recogni5ed in the year. All income and expenditure derlve from continuing activities. Movements in funds are disclosed in note 15 to the financial statements. The notes on pages 31 to 45 form part of these financial statements. 28
SERICC BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 31.03.2024 31.03.2023 Notes Fixed Assets: Tangible assets 12 916 Total fixed assets 916 Current assets: Debtors Cash at bank and in hand 13 186,048 1,497,805 201,319 1,486,290 Total current assets 1,683,853 1,687,609 Liabilities: Creditors falling due within one year 14 57,959 70,648 Net current assets 1,625,894 1,616,961 Total assets less current Ilabllltles and Net assets 1,625,894 1,617,877 The funds of the charlty: Restricted income funds 23,554 19.570 Unrestrirted income funds-. General fund Designated fund 593,954 1,008,386 589.921 1,008,386 Total unrestrirted funds 1.602,340 1.598,307 Total diarity funds 1.625,894 1,617,877 The notes on pages 31 to 45 form part of these financlal statements. th Approved by the Trustees on 25 September 2024 and signed on their behalf by: Ali50n Curnick Chair of Board of Trustees 29
5ERICC STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31# MARCH 2024 Total Funds to 31.03,24 Total Funds to 31.03.23 Noles Net Cash used In Operatlng Artivities 22 19,3321 193,0381 Cash flowsfrom Investlng artlvltles.. Interest Purchase of equipment 20,847 5,121 Net cash provlded by (used in) investing activities 20,847 5,121 Cash flows from flnanclng actlvlties Change in cash and cash equivalents in the perlod 11,515 {87,9171 Cash and cash equivalents brought forward 1,486,290 1,574,207 Cash and cash equivalents carried forward 1,497,805 1,486,290 Cash and cash equivalents conslst of: Cash at bank and in hand 1,497,805 1,486,290 Short term deposits Cash and cash equivalents at 31.03.24 1,497,805 1,486,290 The notes on pages 31 to 45 form part of these financial statements. 30
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES General Informatlon and Basls of Preparation SERICC is a charitable incorporated organisation registered in England. The address of the charity 15 given in the charity information on page l of these financial statements. The nature of the charit(s operations and principal activlties are detailed in the Report of the Trustees on pages 2 to 25. The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention in accordance with items reco8nised at cost or transaction value unless otherwlse stated in the relevant notelsl to these financial statements. The financlal 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 UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021, the Charities Att 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accountln8 Practlce. The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the financial currency of the charlty. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. The charity constitutes a public benefit entlty as defined by FRS 102. b. Fund Accounting Restricted funds comprise grants made for specific purposes as laid down by the donor le.8. for specific projects). Expenditure that meet5 these specific purposes is matched a8ain5t grant income and analysed over the appropriate cost. Further details regarding restricted funds are provided in note 16. Unrestricted funds Comprlse other income received or generated for charitable purposes but which may be Spent at the discretion of the Board of Trustees. Deslgnated funds are those unrestricted funds that have been earmarked by the Trustees for a purpose. G Income Recognltion Income from government and other 8rantS 15 recognised when the charity has entitlement to the fund, any performance conditions attached have been met, it is probable that the income will be received, and the amount can be measured reliably and is not deferred. Income generated from contract5 for services is recognised as earned. Investment income and all other incoming resources are accounted for in the period in which they are received. d. Expenditure Reco8nitlon Resources expended are recognised in the perlod in whlch they are incurred. 31
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 The charity is not registered for VAT and all expenses are inclusive of VAT where appropriate. Charitable activities expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to Such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them and assist with the governance of the charity. Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting the constitutional and statutory requirements of the charity and include audit fees and costs linked to the strategic management of the charlty. All cost5 are allocated between the expenditure categories of the SOFA on a basis designed to reflect the use of the resource. Costs relating to a particular activity are allocated directly, others are apportioned on an appropriate basis e.g. per capita, floor space or estimated usage as set out in notes 6, 7 and 8. Flxed Aet$ Depreciation on fixed assets has been calculated to write off the cost of each asset over its estimated useful life at a rate of 25% on written down values. It is the charitvs policy to capitalise assets costing in excess of £10,000. staff and Pension Costs Counselling staff c05t5 are allocated in the Statement of Financlal Activities on a dirett basis per individual employees and time spent on charitable activities. Other non-counselling staff c05t5 are allocated on the basis of estimated time and resources expended by the charity overall on each charitable activity. Pension costs are accounted for in the period to which they relate and are similarly allocated on a direct basis. g. Operatlng Leases Rentals payable under operating leases are charged to the Statement of Financial Attivities as incurred over the period of the lease. Debtors Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discounts offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid after taking account of any trade discount due. Credltors Creditors are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resultin8 from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due. 32
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 Going Concern The Trustees consider that there is a risk of financial uncertainty due to a significant contract with the Police and Crime Commlssloner potentlallycomlngto an end atthe end of March 2025. The Charity has varied funding streams as well as contingency plans and reserves In place should the contract not be renewed. The financial statement5 have therefore been prepared on a 8oin8 concern basls. 2. JUDGEMENTS AND KEY SOURCES OF ESTIMATION UNCERTAINTY 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. Artual 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 revisions affects only that period, or in the period of the revislon and future periods where the revision affects both current and future period5. 33
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 3. GRANT AND CONTRACT INCOME 31.03.24 31.03.23 Total Total Restricted Unrestricted Donations and legacles: Thurrock Borough Council Development Fund 56,828 56,828 63,142 56.828 56,828 63,142 In the year to 31.03.24, of the grant income classified as Donatlons and Legacies income, £nil12023: £nill was attributable to restricted income funds with the balance of £56,828 {2023'. £63,142) adding to unrestricted funds. Income from Charltable artlvltles: Thurrock Borough Council Children and Families YP SV Counsellor Children & Families Housing Related Support Brighter Futures Thurrock CCG/Better Care Fund Flexible New Burdens Fund 5,000 71,000 38,772 49,988 5,000 71,000 38,772 49,988 43,170 10,364 10,000 72,000 41,746 44,988 43,170 20,729 43,170 10,364 Essex Police Crime Commlssioner Sexual Violence Counselling MOJ ISVA 1,516,138 531,791 1,516,138 1,758,488 576,724 531,791 44,933 National Lottery Communlty Fund Rape Crisis England & Wales External Relations Prograrnme Essex Community Foundation (CARA) Basildon Borough Council 393,991 393,991 82.050 13,500 13,500 33,500 16,O¢XJ 18.OCKI 492,458 2,226,189 2,718,647 2,672,462 In the year to 31.03.24, of the grant and contract income classified as Income from Charitable Activities, £492.45812023- £179,949) was attributable to restricted income funds with the balance of £2,226,18912023'. £2,492,513) adding to unrestricted funds. £2,367,984 12023: £2,604,054) of government grant and contract income was received for delivering charitable activities and operational costs. There were no other contingencie5 or unfulfilled conditions attaching to the government grants. 34
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 4. INCOME FOR SERVICES & DIREcf WORK 31.03.24 31.03.23 Total Total Restricted Unrestricted MOJ Contract IBOLD} Rape Crisis - Hostin8 and Other Fees Coun5ellin8 Sessions Trainin8 Other Services & Dlrect Work 76.260 2,280 76,260 2,280 3,947 300 12,960 12,960 91,500 91,500 4,247 In the year to 31,03.24, of the Fees for Services and Dirert Work income, £nll12023: £nill was attributable to restritted income funds with the balance of £91,50012023: £4,247) adding to unrestricted funds. INVESTMENT INCOME 31.03.24 31.03.23 Total Total Restricted Unrestrlcted Bank Interest 20,847 20,847 5,121 In the year to 31.03.24, of the Investment income, £nil12023: £nill was attributable to restricted Income funds with the balance of £20,84712023: £5,121) adding to unrestricted funds. 35
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315t MARCH 2024 EXPENDITURE ON CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES Counselling Prevention & Advocacy & Education 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Counselling Staff Salary costs Counselling Consultants Staff training Travel & Subsistence Supervision/Safeguarding Health & Wellbeing Service User Costs Counselling Telephone costs Language & Sign Interpreters Essex Partnership payments Governance costs Inote 71 Support costs {note 81 736,903 33,919 6,275 15,064 9,716 1,454 622 18,629 3,488 1,466,132 271,661 87,906 125.575 862,478 870,416 33.919 39,225 6,972 14,493 16,738 8,252 10,795 10,175 1,454 2,583 622 2,743 20,699 26.444 3,488 7,158 1,466,132 1,334,449 339,577 328,903 125.580 182,324 697 1.674 1,079 2,070 67,916 37,674 2,651,769 236,685 2,888,454 2,827.165 Of the £2,888,45412023.' £2,827,165) expenditure in the year to 31.03.24 £490,99912023: £167,304) was charged to restricted funds and £2,397,45512023- £2,659,861) to unrestricted funds. Costs relating directly to charitable activities have been allocated between the two key activities on a direct basis or on a per capit3 staff basis depending on the nature of the expense. Governance and supportCOSt5 have been apportioned as detailed in notes 7 and 8 respertively. 36
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 ANALYSIS OF GOVERNANCE COSTS Coun5elling Prevention & Advocacy & Education 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Non-counselling Staff Salary cost5 Payroll/AccountinB fees Audit fee Legal & Professional fees Consultancy Project Monltorlng Insurances 194,905 4,334 5,678 30,761 28,800 1,760 5,423 48,726 1,084 1,420 7,690 7,200 440 1,356 243,631 5,418 7,098 38,451 36,000 2,200 6,779 227,351 13,618 6,900 39,529 36,OCKJ 5,505 271.661 67,916 339,577 328,903 Governance costs are apportioned between the two key charitable activities based on the level of resources and time expended by the charity as a whole on each activity. 8. ANALYSIS OF SUPPORT COSTS Counselllng & Advocary Prevention & Educatlon 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Rent Heat and Light Cleanin& Repairs and maintenance IT Equipment & software IT Support & development Costs Printing, stationery & postage Publications, subscriptions & publicity Non-counselling Telephone costs Hospitality & refreshments General expenses Depreciation & Loss on Disposal Bank charges 37,016 3,078 9,384 12,756 11,522 7,010 4,467 1,091 673 15,864 1.319 4,021 5,467 4,938 3,005 1,915 467 288 52,880 4,397 13,405 18,223 16,460 10,015 6,382 1,558 961 57,013 4,517 38,465 29.502 37,453 8,577 3,180 1,990 993 641 268 275 115 916 383 304 330 87,906 37,674 125,580 182,324 Support costs are apportioned between the two key charitable activities on the basis of the level of resources and time expended by the charlty as a whole on each activity. 37
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 STAFF COSTS AND KEY PERSONNEL 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Salaries and Wages Socizl Security Costs Pension cost5 978.925 101,669 25.515 977,036 95,344 25,387 1,106,109 1,097,767 Average head count (number of staff employed) 28 27 Duringthe year, the number of higher paid employees was as follows: £60,000-£69,999 £70.000-£79.999 Total redundancy/termination payments amounted to £nil12023: £26,497}, The Trustees received no remuneration nor were they reimbursed for any expenses during the vear12023: £nill. The charity considers its key management personnel comprlse the Trustees, the Director and Operations Manager. The total employment benefits including employer pension contributions of the key management personnel were £125,12712023: £120,182). 10. PENSIONS The charlty offers a defined tontribution pension scheme for the benefit of employees. The asset5 of the Scheme are administered by an independent pension provider, Royal London. Contributions are charged to the SOFA in the period to which they relate. The charge for the year was £25,51512023- £25,387). 11. AUDITORS REMUNERATION 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Audit fees Other Services 7.098 5,418 6,900 3,780 12,516 10,680 38
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL sfATEMEMrs FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31$t MARCH 2024 12. FIXED ASSErs Office Equlpment COST As at 1st April 2023 Addbtions Disposals 2,034 12,0341 As at 31st March 2024 DEPRECIATION As at 1st April 2023 Charge Eliminated on disposals 1,118 11,118) As at 31" March 2024 NET BOOK VALUE At 315r March 2024 At 315t March 2023 916 13. DEBTORS 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Grants and fees receivable Prepayments and accrued Income Other debtor5 22,652 25,354 138,042 48.065 4,315 148,939 186,048 201,319 Other debtors comprise interest free loans of £138,042 of which £108,454 is recoverable after more than one year. 39
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 14. CREDITORS 31.03.24 Total 31.03.23 Total Trade creditors Accruals and deferred income Other taxation and social security 10,056 16,370 31,533 8,922 28,318 33,408 57.959 70,648 IS. ANALYSIS OF MOVEMENT IN FUNDS Balance Income Expendlture Transfer Balance B/f C/f Restrlcted Funds: Counselling & Advocacy: Thurrock CCG/Better Care Fund National Lottery Community Fund Thurrock Borough Council New Burdens Flexible Fund MOJ ISVA (Additionall 43.170 393,991 145,6951 1393,8961 2,525 95 19,570 10,364 44,933 16,4751 144,9331 23,459 19,570 492,458 1490,9991 2,525 23,554 Deslgnated Funds: Contingency Fund Capital Fund Legal Fund 858,386 loo,000 50,000 858,386 loo,000 50,000 1,008.386 1,008,386 Unrestrirted Funds 589,921 2,404,013 12,397,455) {2,5251 593,954 1,617,877 2,896,471 12,888,454) 1,625,894 40
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 15. ANALYSIS OF MOVEMENT IN FUNDS continued Analysls of movement In funds-previous year Balance Transferred Income Expendlture Transfer Balance Clf Restrlcted Funds: Counselling & Advocacy: Thurrock CCG/Better Care Fund National Lottery Fund Essex Community Foundation Basildon Borough Council Thurrock Borough Council New Burdens Flexible Fund 43.170 82,050 16,000 18,000 {48,0821 1102,0641 {16,0001 4,912 385 19,629 118,0001 20,728 11,1581 19,570 19,629 179,948 1167,3041 112,7031 19.570 Designated Funds: Contingency Fund Capital Fund Legal Fund 791,748 loo,000 50,000 66,638 858,386 loo,000 50,000 941,748 66,638 1,008,386 Unrestricted Funds 730,702 2,573,015 12,659,861) 153,9351 589,921 1,692,079 2,752,963 12,827,165) 1,617,877 The details of each restricted fund are provided in note 16. The details of designated funds are provided in note 18. 41
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 20Z4 16. RESTRICTED FUNDS Thurrock Clinical Commissioning Group Better Care Fund Grant funding and contracts have been utilised to meet operational and delivery costs of a Thurrock sexual abuse and violence counsellor. The National Lotte Communitv Fund The First Contact Navigator team which provides the triage support both to service users and professionals across the Essex Partnership wa5 Successfully funded to start the project from I, April 2023 for three years. COMMUNITY FUND Thurrock Borou h Council: New Burdens Flexible Fund for providing practical support to victims who have experienced sexual and domestic violence. THURROCK COUNCIL Minist of Justice MOJ During the year the MOJ made additional ISVA funding available to increase staffing capacity. Ministry of Justice 17. PRINCIPLE UNRESTRicfED FUNDING SCOURCES Essex Police Fire and Crime Commissioner pcc This core contract enables the Essex Rape Crisis services to provide specialist services for wrap around counselling and ISVA services. As POLICI FIRE AND CRIME the lead partner for the PFCC contract, SERICC ensures contrart COMMISSIONERFOR ESSEX compliance on behalf of the Essex Rape Crisis Centres ISOSRC and CARA). This contract is in place until Marth 2025. PFCC= In addition to the PFCC core contract, additional funding has been made available to increase capaclty, meetlng operatlonal costs, and fundlng ISVA and counselling services to adults, children, young people. Ministr of Justice MOJ Rape Support Fund ISVA funding Domestic And Sexual Violence Fund Ministry of Justice MOJ Men's Fund This fund has enabled SERICC to work with men and boys in South East Essex by contracting with a dedicated male counsellor. This fund ceased 31 March 2024. 42
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 315t MARCH 2024 Rape Crisis En land and Wales RCEW .' Poli and Strate ic Work Delivering national policy and strategic work on behalf of Rape Crisis England & Wales. This includes responding to national consultations, attending national stakeholder meetings and ensu ring that policy is informed by frontline practice, victin15 and survivor5 experience5. Thi5 fund ceased 31 March 2024. RIPE CEiri England &Wales SERICC provlde support to RCEW member centres in relation to thelr use of the Data Performance Management system. This contrad ends July 2024. BOLD January_2023 The Mlnistry of Justice IMOJ) is leadin8 a group of government or8anisation5 in a programme to link data on vulnerable people. Named the Better Outcomes through Linked Data IBOLDI programme, it is aimed at providing 0thrn15byunwll more joined up services and improving the evidence base for policy creation and operational decision making. This contract started in January 2023 and ended on 31, August 2023. BOLD Thurrock Borou h Council: Brighter Futures contract for provldlng Early Interventions wlth children and families New Burdens Fund for providing support to victims who have experienced sexual domestic abuse New Burdens Flexible Fund for providing emotional and prattical support to victlms who have experienced domestic violence Young Peoples Counselling contract Development 8rant for operational and dlrect staff costs Strategic and operational grant for involvement in strategic and operational meetings ceased in the autumn of 2023. Independent Housing support for provlding advocacy and support to enable individuals to live independently. THURROCK COUNCIL 18. DESIGNATED FUNDS The Contingency Fund is maintained for the potential expenditure that would be incurred in the event that funding is withdrawn from SERICC. At the period end, the Trustees reviewed the level of the Contingency Fund and took the decision that this level of contingency was st appropriate a5 Qf 31 March 2024. The Capital fund is for future and additlonal capital costs that may include additional premise5 In order to dellver Services effectively in the community. Whilst there are no existing or pendin8 claim5 against the charity, the Trustees have taken advice and maintalned a designated Legal fund as a cautionary measure in order to meet any legal and professional fees and ancillary c05t5 that may arlse Sn the future as a result of any potential claim against the charity or in connection with its operation5. 43
SERICC NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31" MARCH 2024 19. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSEfs BEfwEEN FUNDS Restrirted Designated Unrestrirted Total 31.03.24 Tangible fixed assets Current assets Current Liabilities 29,785 16,2311 1,008,386 645,682 1,683,853 151.7281 157,9591 23,554 1,008,386 593,954 1,625,894 Analysis of Net A$5ets between Funds- Prevlous year Restricted Deslgnated Unrestrlcted Total 31.03.23 Tangible fixed assets Current assets Current Liabilities 916 916 658.033 1,687,609 169,0281 {70,6481 21,190 11,6201 1,008,386 19.570 1.008,386 589,921 1,617,877 20. COMMITMENTS At 31, March 2024, the charity was committed to three formal premises leases. Total future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:_ 31.03.24 31.3.23 Not later than one year Later than one and not later than five years 22.886 32.447 39,560 55,334 55,333 94,894 The financial Statements for the period include lease payments recognised as an expense of £39,309. 21. RELATED PARTY TRANSAcfioNS At 31" March 2024, an amount of £138,042 was owed to SERICC by ICENA, an entity in which certain key management personnel of SERICC are directors. This loan is interest free and repayable in instalments. as agreed between the two parties.
SERICC NOTES TOTHE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH 2024 22. RECONCILIATION OF NEf MOVEMENT IN FUNDSTO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING AcnviTIES 31.03.24 31.3.23 Net movement in funds Add back depreciation charge Deduct interest income shown in investing activities Decrease/llncreasel in debtors IDecreasel/lncrease in creditors 8,017 916 120,847} 15.271 112,6891 174,202) 304 15,121} 141.1181 27,099 Net Cash used In Operatlng Actlvltles 19,332) 193.038) ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET DEBT At 01.04.23 Cashflows Total 31.3.24 Cash and cash equivalents 1,486,290 11,515 1,497,805 Total Net Debt 1,486,290 11,515 1,497,805 45