2023-09-30-accounts

Charity Registration No. 1188299 Company Registration No. 11577160 (England and Wales)

LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED

ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS

CONTENTS

	Page
Company information	3
Director's report	4
Strategic report	5-10
Independent Examiner’s Report	11
Statement of Financial Activities	12
Balance Sheet	13
Notes to the accounts	14-15

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED COMPANY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

Director	Hawa Osman
Company Number	11577160 (England and Wales)
Charity Number	1188299
Registered Office	Room 28 2nd Floor Unimix House
	Abbey Road
	London
	NW10 7TR
Trustees	Mrs Hawa Osman
	Mr Abdurrahman Omar Ahmed
	Mr Mustaf Mohamud.
Independent Examiner	Veritas Business Solutions Ltd
	Suite 36, The Vale Business Centre
	203-205 The vale
	London
	W3 7QS

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED DIRECTOR'S REPORT

The director presents her report and accounts for the year ended 30 September 2023.

Directors

Hawa Osman held office during the whole of the period.

Statement of directors' responsibilities

The directors are responsible for preparing the report and accounts in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the directors to prepare accounts for each financial year. Under that law, the directors have elected to prepare the accounts in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable law). Under company law the directors must not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the company and of the profit or loss of the company for that period. In preparing these accounts, the directors are required to:

• select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

• make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

• prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the company and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Small company provisions

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions relating to small companies within Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006.

Signed on behalf of the board of directors

............................................................................

Hawa Osman Director

Approved by the board on: 5 October 2023

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED STRATEGIC REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 30[th] SEPTEMBER 2023

REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS OF THE CHARITY AND ITS TRUSTEES

FOR THE YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 2023

Trustees 1. Mrs Hawa Osman. 2. Mr Abdurrahman Omar Ahmed. 3. Mr Mustaf Mohamud.

Company registered number 11577160 Charity registered number 1188299

Registered office

Room 28,2nd Floor, Unimix House, Abbey Road. Park Royal. NW10 7TR. STRATEGIC REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30th SEPTEMBER 2023 OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

OBJECTS

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a “developmental disorder” because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.

Autism is known as a “spectrum” disorder because there is wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms people experience.

People of all genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds can be diagnosed with ASD. Although ASD can be a lifelong disorder, treatments and services can improve a person’s symptoms and daily functioning.

Lets Unite for Autism is an experience-led autism charity that is driven by the lived experiences of individuals who are on the autism spectrum, as well as their families and caregivers. The charity is founded and operated by people who have first-hand knowledge of the challenges, needs, and unique perspectives of the autism community.

The charity plays a vital role in advocating for better support, awareness, and understanding of autism by leveraging their personal experiences.

Key Characteristics and Benefits: -

1. Direct Insight: the charity has a deep understanding of the day-to-day realities of living with autism. We use this insight to shape our initiatives, programs, and services. 2. Personal Empowerment: we empower individuals with autism by providing them with leadership roles and opportunities to share their stories, fostering a sense of agency and

pride.

1. Advocacy: We advocate for policy changes, awareness campaigns, and improved services based on the first-hand experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum. 4. Creating Inclusive Spaces: our aim is to create inclusive environments that accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of individuals with autism. 5. Breaking Stigmas: we work to challenge stigmas and stereotypes associated with autism, promoting a more accepting and inclusive society.

2. Policy Change: by sharing our experiences, we aim to influence policies that improve the lives of individuals with autism and ensure their rights are protected.

3. Our Mission is to provide people with autism and developmental disabilities the best possible opportunities for lifetime assistance, support, and training to help them reach their highest potential for independence, fulfilment, and productivity.

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Our Aims & Objectives

To relieve the needs of people who are on the autistic spectrum, their parents, families, and carers but not exclusively by:

1. The provision of advice, guidance, support, and information to those affected by autism.

2. Providing support, education and practical advice and recreational and leisure time activities provided in the interest of social welfare, designed to improve their conditions of life and which develop their skills, capacities, and capabilities. 3. Advancing the education of the public in autistic spectrum conditions, among those who work with people who have autistic spectrum conditions.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Lets Unite for Autism we provide a range of services and support to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), their families, caregivers, and communities.

These services are designed to enhance the quality of life, promote inclusion, and address the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum.

Other unique services include:

1. Support and Advocacy: Offer emotional support, guidance, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. This includes assisting families in navigating educational, healthcare, and social services systems.

2. Information and Resources: Provide accurate and up-to-date information about autism, including resources about diagnosis, therapies, and strategies for managing autismrelated challenges.

3. Awareness and Education: Work to raise awareness about autism in the community, reduce stigma, and promote understanding. The offer is via educational programs, workshops, and presentations to schools, workplaces, and community groups.

4. Early Intervention Programs: Support early intervention programs aimed at providing therapies and interventions to children with autism at a young age, when interventions can be most effective.

5. Therapies and Interventions: Connect families to a variety of therapies, including behavioral therapies, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and more. 6. Parent and Caregiver Support: Provide support groups, counselling, and resources for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism

6. Recreation and Leisure Activities: Organise recreational and leisure activities that are tailored to the needs and interests of individuals with autism, providing opportunities for socialization and engagement.

7. Sensory-Friendly Events and Spaces: Provide and organise sensory-friendly events and create sensory-friendly spaces to accommodate the sensory sensitivities of individuals with autism.

8. Respite Care Services: Provide respite care services to give caregivers a break and ensure the well-being of individuals with autism.

Advocacy for Policy Change: Advocate for policies that promote inclusivity, accessibility, and rights for individuals with autism at the local, national, and international levels. Community Building: Create a sense of community by organising events, support groups, and online forums where individuals with autism and their families can connect and share experiences.

Our Fundraising

Fundraising over the last year has been largely centered on grants: We have received funds from both Local and National Charities. Total Charitable grants was £90,063

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Our Marketing and Communications

Autism presents unique challenges for young people across all communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities. However, there are certain challenges that may be more pronounced or specific within the context of BAME individuals with autism.

To address these challenges, we have adopted a culturally competent and inclusive approach that respects the diverse needs and experiences of BAME young people with autism. This includes raising awareness within BAME communities, providing culturally sensitive assessments and interventions, and ensuring access to appropriate services that consider cultural norms, languages, and family dynamics. Our young beneficiaries and families face many challenges such as:-

1.Delayed or Misdiagnosis: BAME individuals with autism might experience delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis due to cultural differences in understanding autism, limited access to culturally competent assessment, and stigma surrounding developmental disorders.

2.Lack of Awareness: Cultural stigmatisation or lack of awareness about autism in some BAME communities can lead to misunderstandings and resistance to seeking appropriate support and interventions.

3.Language Barriers: Language barriers might impede effective communication between professionals, individuals with autism, and their families. This can affect access to services and understanding of the condition.

4.Limited Resources: Some BAME communities might have limited access to autism-related resources, therapies, and specialised services, which can impact early intervention and support.

5.Parental Stress: Parents from BAME backgrounds might experience additional stress due to cultural expectations, lack of information, and community attitudes toward disabilities.

6.Lack of Representation: Limited representation of BAME individuals in autism research, advocacy, and support networks can hinder the development of culturally relevant resources.

7.Transition to Adulthood: Transitioning to adulthood and independent living can be especially challenging for BAME individuals with autism due to the intersection of cultural, social, and disability-related factors.

The charity delivers services aimed at young BAME people with special needs to address their unique needs, cultural sensitivities, and diverse backgrounds. We deliver Inclusive recreational activities and sports programs that consider cultural preferences and provide opportunities for social interaction.

The lack of available play resources for (BAME) young people with special needs is a significant challenge that can impact their access to inclusive and culturally sensitive play experiences. This issue can arise due to various factors, including limited representation, awareness, funding, and cultural considerations. Addressing this gap is crucial for promoting equitable opportunities for play and development.

Addressing the lack of available play resources for BAME young people with special needs requires a collaborative effort involving educators, parents, caregivers, advocacy groups, content creators, and policymakers. By prioritising inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and representation, it's possible to create play resources that cater to the diverse needs and backgrounds of BAME individuals with special needs.

Our young beneficiaries and their families participate in multi sport activities which offer numerous benefits for young people with additional needs. Multi sport programs involve engaging in various sports and physical activities, which can lead to a wide range of positive outcomes. Here are benefits:

1. Inclusive environment: Multi sport programs often embrace inclusivity, providing an environment where young people with diverse abilities can participate and feel welcome.

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1. Physical development helps develop a wide range of physical skills, such as strength, endurance, agility, balance, and coordination.

2. Social skills and teamwork, helping young people with additional needs improve their social skills, communication, and cooperation with peers.

3. Emotional well-being: Physical activities, including multi sport, can release endorphins and promote a sense of well-being, contributing to improved emotional health.

4. Peer support and acceptance from their peers, leading to positive social interactions and reduced feelings of isolation.

Risk Management The Board of Trustees recognise their responsibilities in the management of risk, particularly in respect of the children and adults attending and the staff employed by the charity. A full risk analysis is carried out in each year, with the most recent analysis being approved by Trustees in September 2023.

The analysis covers all aspects of safeguarding, finance, health & safety, HR, reputation, and resources.

1. The charity is underpinned by the following policies

2. Good governance and management information- We ensure that the charity conducts its business with integrity and tackles the risk that the charity, or third party, engages in bribery and corruption.

3. Assessing bribery and corruption risk - We use the risk assessment to inform the development of monitoring programmes; policies and procedures; training; and that are to be embedded into operational processes.

4. Policies and procedures -we have in place robust and effective policies and procedures that are appropriate to us

5. charity to counter bribery and corruption risk, implemented effectively, and clearly communicated to staff.

6. We regularly review and update policies and procedures, including when new risks are identified or when there are changes in relevant legislation or regulation.

7. Third-party relationships and due diligence policies and procedures to assess the risk that third parties engage in corruption and to take adequate, risk sensitive, measures to mitigate that risk.

8. We ensure appropriate due diligence is undertaken, and full records kept, on any associated person with whom the charity has dealings.

9. Payment controls systems and controls in place to ensure payments to third parties are in line with what is both expected and approved. Ensuring adequate due diligence on and approval of third- party relationships before payments are made to the third party. We also adopted risk-based approval procedures for payments and a clear understanding of the reason for all payments.

10. Staff recruitment and vetting- Robust recruitment and vetting processes, which consider bribery and corruption risks associated with individual roles, to reduce the risk of employing staff who may be vulnerable to engaging in corrupt practices.

11. Training and awareness- Providing good quality, standard training on anti-bribery and corruption for all staff and ensuring training covers relevant and practical examples as well as keeping training material and staff knowledge up to date.

12. Incident reporting -We have effective processes in place to ensure that when staff become aware of any bribery and corruption concerns, they can take timely action to mitigate the risk.

13. Also, in place is confidential whistleblowing procedures to encourage employees to raise concerns internally about misconduct or perceived misconduct without fear of negative consequences for themselves.

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Public Benefit

The Trustees consider that Lets Unite for Autism provides a public benefit by providing support to relieve the needs of people who are on the autistic spectrum, their parents, families, and carers.

The provision of advice, guidance, support, and information to those affected by autism. Advancing the education of the public in autistic spectrum conditions, among those who work with people who have autistic spectrum conditions.

The Trustees have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity’s aims and objectives and in planning its future activities. In particular, the Trustees consider how planned activities will contribute to the aims and objectives that have been set.

Structure, Governance and Management

The charity is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England 11577160 and is also a registered charity 1188299.The charity is governed by its Board of Trustees. The governing instruments of the charity are the Memorandum and Articles of Association. Trustee Recruitment, Induction and Training

The Board of Trustees aims to build a board with a comprehensive, relevant, and focused skills mix, and to recruit members whose knowledge, experience and perspective will support, guide, and oversee the operations of the charity. Trustees are recruited through a variety of channels including research, advertising, networking, and agencies. Trustees are nominated at Board level and, subject to approval, are then invited to attend the next Board meeting. New Trustees can only be appointed upon satisfactory completion of all regulatory checks: references, identity, eligibility, money laundering and DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks.

All Trustee appointments are confirmed by Board Resolution passed at Board meetings and are registered with the Charity Commission and Companies House. New Trustees are welcomed into the organisation and provided with a full induction pack. To maximise the value of a Trustee's contribution, every effort is made to ensure new Trustees understand the organisation, its background and mission, before, during and after the appointment process. Ongoing training is also provided for all Trustees.

Organisational Structure

The Board of Trustees meets formally at least 4 times a year. Members of the Board of Trustees who served since 30September 2020 were:

1. Hawa Osman

2. Mustaf Mohamud 3. Abdurrahman Omar Ahmed

The organisation has 10 volunteers and 1 paid member of staff. All the Trustees work on a voluntary basis Fundraising

The Trustees are extremely grateful to the many Trusts and Foundations that awarded grants to the charity.

The grants are a mixture of restrictive grants for a specific project purpose and unrestrictive to build the capacity of the charity.

The charity is required to prepare quarterly reports to adhere to the grant contract and submit to the funders.

Trusts and Foundations

£6750- Brent council

£9972- National Lottery Fund

£3115- Voice 4 Change England £4000- Irelands Fund

£11400- Fundraising £47626- BBC Children in Need 7200 – Young Brent Foundation

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Financial Review

Results for the year ended 30th September 2023 show total income of £90,063. (2022 £54,813).

Employees

It is the Company's policy to give full and fair consideration to employees, workers, and potential employees without regard to race, color, nationality or national origin, sex, gender reassignment, marriage, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or belief. All Company policies, practices and procedures relating to resourcing, training, development, and promotion are administered equally and in accordance with all applicable laws. It is the Company's policy to provide equal opportunities in all aspects of employment from the sourcing and selection of candidates, recruitment, and training of employees to terms and conditions of employment and reasons for termination of employment and to ensure that any employment decisions are taken without reference to irrelevant or discriminatory criteria.

Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities

The Trustees (who are also the directors of Lets Unite for Autism for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Annual Report (including the Strategic Report) and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards

Company law requires the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year, which give a true and fair view of the situation of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period.

The Trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Disclosure of information to auditor

In so far as the Trustees are aware: there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditor is unaware; and the Trustees have taken all steps that they ought to have taken to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditor is aware of that information.

This report was approved by the trustees on 4 October 2023 and signed on their behalf by

Hawa Osman Abdurrahman Omar

Chair of Trustees Trustee

Hawa Osman Abdurrahman Omar

04/10/2023 04/10/2023

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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPEORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2023 LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company (‘the charity’) for the year ended 30 September 2023, which are set out on page 12 to 15.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity’s trustees of the Company (who are also the directors of the company for the purposes of company law), you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (“the 2006 Act”).

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited for this year under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (“the 2011 Act”). In carrying out my examination, I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent examiner's statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention (other than that disclosed below *) which gives me cause to believe that:

1. accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; or

2. the accounts do not accord with such records; or

3. the accounts do not comply with relevant accounting requirements under section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 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; or

4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS102).

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed :

Date : 4th October 2023

Mr N Mohamed BA MSc

Veritas Business Solutions Limited Suite 36, The Vale Business Centre 203-205 The Vale London,W3 7QS

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED STATEMENT OF FINANICIA ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

		2023	2022
Unrestricted Restricted		Total	Total
		£	£
Grants and Donations 18,600 71,463		90,063	54,813
Resources expended
Direct expenses
Staff Salary 5,020		5,020	4,490
Outreach Support Worker 6,250		6,250	3,537
Travel and subsistence 6,200		6,200	6,500
Staff development and training 6,300		6,300	-
	0 23,770	23,770	14,527
Premises costs:
Office and Hall Rent	7,920	7,920	9,600
	0 7,920	7,920	9,600
General administrative expenses:
Telephone and Broadband	1,728	1,728	1,728
Stationery and printing	3,380	3,380	2,556
Insurances	520	520	325
Events	5,230	5,230	6,800
Household Fund	-	-	6,750
Refreshment cost/Management	1,985	1,985	864
Volunteer Expenses	2,600	2,600	2,800
Software	120	120	120
Website costs	1,600	1,600	1,573
	0 17,163	17,163	23,516
Legal and professional costs:
Accountancy fees	520	520	420
Consultancy fees	4,200	4,200	-
Advertising and PR	1,820	1,820	1,230
Other legal andprofessional	-	-	-
	0 6,540	6,540	1,650
Total Resources Expended	0 55,393	55,393	49,293
Surplus/ (deficit)	18,600 16,070	34,670	5,520
Balance brought Forward	0 -10,835	-10,835	-16,355
Balance Carried Forward	18,600 5,235	23,835	-10,835

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED BALANCE SHEET AS AT 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

Notes Current assets Cash at bank and in hand Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 3 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year 4 Net assets/(liabilities) Reserves 5 Profit and loss account Members' funds	2023 £ 40,703 (3,083) 37,620 37,620 (13,785) 23,835 23,835 23,835	2022 £ 5,732 (1,059) 4,673 4,673 (15,508) (10,835) (10,835) (10,835)

For the year ending 30 September 2023 the company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit in accordance with section 476 of the Companies Act 2006.

The director acknowledges his responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.

These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies' regime and in accordance with the provisions of FRS 102 Section 1A - Small Entities.

The financial statements were approved by the Board and authorised for issue on 4 October 2023 and were signed on its behalf by

Hawa Osman

Director

Company Registration No. 11577160

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LETS UNITE FOR AUTISM LIMITED NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 SEPTEMBER 2023

1 Compliance with accounting standards

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement on 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)-(Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland

(FRS 102) and the Companies Act 2006

Cash flow statement

The directors have taken advantage of the exemption in Financial Reporting Standard 1 (revised) from including a cash flow statement in the financial statements on the grounds that the company is small.

2 Accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are set out below and have remained unchanged from the previous year, and also have been consistently applied within the same accounts.

Incoming Resources

Income from donations and grants, including capital grants, is included in incoming resources when these are receivable. When donors specify that donations and grants, including capital grants are for a particular restricted purpose, this income is included in incoming resources of restricted funds when receivable

Resources expended and recognition of liabilities

All expenditure is incurred on an accruals basis. The majority of costs are directly attributable to the specific charitable activities.

Liabilities are recognised on the accruals basis in accordance with normal accounting principles

3 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Trade creditors Other creditors Accruals	2023 £ 400 1,585 1,098 3,083	2022 £ - 399 660
		1,059

4 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

4 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year Bank loans 5 Statement of Financial Activities As at 1 October 2022 Surplus for the year As at 30 September 2023	2023 £ 13,785 2023 £ -10,835 34,670 23,835	2022 £ 15,508
		2022 £ -16,355 5,520
		-10,835

5 Statement of Financial Activities

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6 Transactions with trustees

All of the above results are derived from continuing activities. There were no other gains or losses other than those stated above. Movements in funds are disclosed in note 5 to the financial statements.

No transactions other than the refund of out-of-pocket expenses for the trustees of the Charity took place during the year under review

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